Celebrating Filipino artistry

In keeping with Greenbelt 5’s commitment in promoting Filipino talent and in celebration of Philippine Independence, the premier lifestyle and shopping destination celebrated “Designs Filipino.” A preview of the collection from the Filipino designers was held at the second level of Filipino Zone in Greenbelt 5.

Among the Filipino Zone merchants that participated in this lovely evening included Aranaz, Arnel Papa, Atelier Avatar, Bayo, Barba, Bonne Bouche, Gaupo, Jun Escario, Kashieca, KT, L Manila, Myth, Paradi, Religioso and Victoria Marin.

Models sported glamorous and chic designs such as exquisitely designed handmade bags by Amina Aranaz of Aranaz, handcrafted jewelry and accessories drawn from local materials by Arnel Papa, Atelier Avatar and Victoria Marin, and shoes by Cesar Gaupo of Gaupo. Bonne Bouche embodies fashion pieces by Michi Calica, jewelry by Elena Bautista and shoes by Emi Jorge. L Manila houses fashion designs by Lulu Tan Gan, Puey Quiñones, Gerry Katigbak, Danilo Franco, Barge Ramos, OJ Hofer, Tippi Ocampo and Solenn Heusaff. Myth showcases a pool of talents such as Henri Calayag of skin care and cosmetics, Jing Monis of hair care, Doltz Pilar of store design and accessories, and Ivarluski Aseron, Jojie Lloren, Louis Claparols, Dennis Lustico and Joey Samson of apparel design.

Models wore designs by Vic Barba of Barba, draping fabrics by Jun Escario, quirky apparel by Kate Torralba of KT, resort wear by Patrice Ramos Diaz of Paradi and made-to-order couture line of bridal, formal and sports wear, costume jewelry, and shoes by sisters Yvette and Choc Religioso of Religioso. Bayo and Kashieca reflected a neat and feminine image catering to a woman’s casual lifestyle.

Greenbelt 5 features the best of local designers, making every Filipino proud.

A party under the sea

Dennis and Tessa (Prieto) Valdes have been married for 15 years!

The “Sea Princess and Pirate” celebrated the momentous occasion in Manila Ocean Park with family and close friends. The setting was apt for such a theme party, with the very impressive aquariums as a backdrop. Aside from viewing the different species of marine life, a mermaid show was also staged (Tessa was supposed to be one of the mermaids had she not caught a cold) to the delight of the crowd.

Dennis wore a white ruffled shirt while Tessa donned a Rajo Laurel creation to match the underwater theme. Goldilocks provided a giant cake for the party.

The evening also launched the Nokia 6700 classic brought in by Tessa as three mermen carried her to host the event with Star columnist Tim Yap. Three 6700s were raffled off to lucky winners: Star columnist JR Isaac, Charlie Carmona and Emi Jorge. Lots of other raffle prizes were given away such as Timex watches, Phiten bracelets and shirts, and 70 (almost one for every two guests) Nokia phones. The primarily seafood dinner was catered by Margarita Fores’ Cibo.

A photo booth by 3Dme allowed guests to purchase their photos for any amount they wished to give for the reef protection program of Tubataha. Everyone had a loot bag (with Coca-Cola products and Bench’s yummy new potato chips) and almost everyone went home with a prize.

For Tessa and Dennis, it was a very different and fun way to celebrate their 15th anniversary. Happy anniversary to the Sea Princess and the Pirate!