The gold is back at the Golden Tee

During the glorious days of the past – at the Golden Tee in Manila Golf – BMW raffled off luxury cars in addition to other prizes like trips to the US and other destinations, and goodies as major prizes. Through time, however, various reasons – logical and otherwise – started to affect the tournament and it slowly went down in terms of prestige and prizes, finally to the point that giveaways were just gift certificates from the pro shop.

Recently, the "gold" came back at the Golden Tee. Led by a tireless group of "younger" members and Raoul Romulo, the team consisting of George Fernando Blaylock, Manuel Chan Jr., Jovanni Chuaunso, Arsenic Laurel and Anthony Te, and supported by sponsors like Tom Valderrama of SMART Infinity, Jack Kidwiler of Heritage Park Fort Bonifacio, Mike Osmeña of Golf Depot and more, literally brought back the glitter to the golf tournament that was created 37 years ago.

Thanks to these young men, the "gold" really is back, with business class trips to Las Vegas for two courtesy of Philippine Airlines, three of the latest models of Mercedes Benz courtesy of Felix Ang and CATS, golf carts and a multitude of other prizes.

In fact, there was an avalanche of prizes that a daily raffle was held just to reduce the number of items to be raffled off on the last day. Even then, there were still over 100 prizes given away during the awards night.

And what was so glorious about all this was that all major prizes were acquired at no cost to any of the members. The piece de resistance, however, was a six-figure donation to build homes for the typhoon victims in Quezon.

Among the highlights was the sumptuous cuisine, with four food stations each offering elaborate spreads (seafood galore such as lobsters and oysters, carvings like roast beef, three "Baka" and eight succulent lechons, and for dessert, chocolate fondue and other assorted sweets).

Stage veterans and powerhouse couple Robert Seña and Isay Alvarez provided the entertainment.

Thank you, Raoul, George, Manoling, Jovanni, Arsenic and Anthony for bringing back the gold to the Golden Tee.

Many thanks also to the efficient MGCC team led by general manager Ramon Salazar, Nonette Romero, Erlinda Trajano and Brendan Sagum, who all helped in bringing back the gold.

See you again next year.

A Blissful Bash

Stunning Consul of Angola, Helen Ong, recently threw a splendid birthday party for her husband, Dr. Luciano Ong, at their charming North Forbes residence.

Joining Helen at the joyous and festive occasion were her children Marian, Czarina and husband Jay Camus, Luciano Jr. and wife Angeline, and bosom friends.

Members of the diplomatic corps were well-represented, with no less than nine ambassadors with their wives enjoying the buffet prepared by The Plaza.

Roast beef, roast turkey, baked salmon, an assortment of pastas and a crepe bar were only a few of the gourmet preparations that made the evening doubly special.

Seen having a grand time were two-time Papal awardee Meldy Cojuangco, Louie and Mellie Ablaza and Rene and Fortune Ledesma.

The celebration lasted till the wee hours, and guests received a Chinese golden casserole filled with sweet goodies.

Happy birthday, Sonny, and more to come.

A Boracay Welcome

It was a fine day at the white sands of Boracay as President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and First Gentleman Mike Arroyo were warmly welcomed by Boracay Regency Beach Resort & Convention Center chairman Henry Chusuey.

The Boracay Regency is the first triple-A resort located along the white sand beach, famous for its sumptuous food, luxurious accommodations, and friendly and attentive service.

Keep up the good work, Henry!