Conserving our cultural and historical heritage sites

Yoko Ono, wife of the late John Lennon of the famed The Beatles, pledged a donation of P2.5 million through the Philippine Red Cross for the children affected by typhoon Ondoy. Yoko earlier visited the Philippine Embassy in Fujimi, Tokyo, Japan to pledge the donation. She was accompanied by the representatives of international media including Japanese major newspapers and The Times of London.

Yoko said, “Fujimi manor is very close to my heart because I spent my childhood years in this magnificent house owned by my uncle, Iwajiro Yasuda.” In 1944, Jose P. Laurel bought the property from the Yasudas, who owned other properties in other parts of Japan. The property has been used as residence of Philippine ambassadors to Japan. The Philippines has five properties in various parts of Tokyo and Kobe; these were given through Japanese war reparations. Colorful sakuras (somei yoshino) or cherry trees encircle the huge garden, the first of which, by the gate, commemorates the release of Japanese prisoners from Muntinlupa by the late president Ramon Magsaysay in 1954. Its beautiful pink blossoms aptly symbolize the renewed friendship between the Philippines and Japan after World War II. The Kudan property includes the mansion with its huge music room, diplomatic room, dining room, bedrooms including the Macapagal guestroom, the collection of Filipino paintings and the shrine garden.

Our embassy heritage houses around the world link us to the rich history, art and architecture of our host nations. Today, there is a stronger awareness to help conserve these sites. To bid out the Philippine-owned Fujimi property in Tokyo, Japan and convert it into a commercial multi-story building is something we as a nation should not allow because the magnificent structure is considered a jewel of the Philippines and classified as a historical building under the National Historical Institute of the Philippines.

“I am deeply moved and grateful to the Philippine government for having maintained this beautiful residence in such immaculate condition. I received a letter from President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo assuring me that the people of our country will treasure it as much or even more than you,” Yoko further mentioned.

A very happy ending, indeed!

It was truly a happy ending as former Jayelles writer Rocky Teodoro and his lovely inamorata of three years, Kitzche Lu, were joined as one in the enchanting locale of Sea Wind Resort in Boracay — now the destination of choice as an ideal wedding venue because of its romantic, charming and private ambiance. Family and friends were all smiles as they enjoyed the joyous and moving ceremony, as well as the laughter-filled reception party afterward, which was held under the exquisitely decorated beach tent of Sea Wind. My heartfelt thanks go out to Sea Wind president Boy Jarantilla, who stood in for me as one of the wedding’s primary sponsors. Music and laughter, love and fellowship — these are real ingredients for an unforgettable wedding!

Congratulations and be in love forever, Rocky and Kitzche!

It’s Sinulog time in Cebu!

Witness a grand parade of joyous revelers in colorful costumes honoring the beloved patron saint Sto. Niño as the Marco Polo Plaza, Cebu City’s five-star hotel, ushers in the festive Sinulog 2010!

Make the Sinulog festivity a memorable experience by taking advantage of Marco Polo’s irresistible room rate of only P3,500 per night single/double occupancy from Jan. 15 to 16!

 (For reservations, call Cebu (032) 253-1111 or Manila (02) 887-1263.)

A Bora-style holiday

Families and vacationers alike recently celebrated the holiday cheers with a special Christmas Eve dinner at The Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Convention Center, the first triple-A resort in the island paradise, led by visionary chairman Henry Chusuey. Guests indulged in the most sumptuous feast by the beach as they sampled the traditional Filipino buffet at Sea Breeze and the delectable five-course dinner set at Christina’s.

Cheers!