A glittering night of music

The historic 19th century St. Joseph’s Parish in Las Piñas, home to the world famous Bamboo Organ, was the perfect venue for Rep. Cynthia Villar and her husband Sen. Manuel "Manny" Villar’s grand celebration to mark the end of the 112th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) general assembly which was held recently in Manila.

Delegates from 145-member countries were treated to a glittering gathering of the country’s most talented musicians, political and cultural elite. Among the guests were Senate President Franklin Drilon with wife Mila and Sen. Dick Gordon.

There were performances by world-class Filipino talents like versatile soloist Cocoy Laurel, mesmerizing soprano Deeda Barretto, powerful tenor Nolyn Cabahug and the angelic voices of the Las Piñas Boys Choir and a grand finale by skillful organist Armando Salarza on the Bamboo Organ which delighted the foreign delegates.

Later, guests enjoyed the sumptuous Filipino-themed buffet in the courtyard, which was decked out with exotic flowers and native decor.

Cynthia and Manny proved to be gracious hosts as they gave delegates a memorable experience of Filipino hospitality, talent and culture.

Flying Through

Lufthansa German Airlines-Philippines recently held a grand bash at The Tent in Rockwell, Makati to unveil its latest Business Class product: the "PrivateBed," a state-of-the art business class seat.

The event also introduced Christopher Zimmer, Lufthansa’s new general manager for the Philippines, Guam and Micronesia. Dapper Christopher, along with sales and marketing manager Minette Corpuz, made sure that everyone was enjoying the party. They announced that flights to Frankfurt now pass through Canton, China instead of a lay-over in Bangkok, Thailand.

The guests, comprised of the airline’s loyal patrons and businessmen, partook of the tasty cocktails that were served. Everyone eagerly anticipated who would win the evening’s raffle prize of two round-trip tickets to Germany. Christopher was wowed by everybody’s enthusiastic response that he gave away two more round-trip tickets to the audience’s delight.

An Elegant Affair At The Ablazas

Consul ad honorem of the Republic of Guatemala in Manila Mellie Ablaza and her husband Louie recently hosted a sit-down dinner at their luxurious home for visiting Guatemalan delegates to the 112th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly that was held in Manila. The five-member delegation was led by Alejandro Maldonado also included Zury Rios-Montt de Weller, Julio Lowenthal, Edgar Arevalo and Jaime Martinez.

During dinner, Mellie asked guests to join her in a special toast for the continuing friendship and cooperation between the Philippines and Guatemala and also for the health and prosperity of their respective leaders, Presidents Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Oscar Berger Perdomo.

Guests enjoyed a sumptuous feast that included Black Angus Rib Eye Steak with Wild Mushroom Gravy and Crepe Pouch with Fresh Strawberries prepared by top caterer Millie Reyes of The Plaza. Jun-Jun Ablaza created a stylish yet warm ambiance that made the evening all the more memorable. Once again, with her usual panache and classic style, Mellie has proven why she is one of the country’s most gracious hostesses.