A gem of a celebration

Turning “diamond” does not feel so bad at all. More than 40 years in the business had me so much to be thankful for. First, allow me to cite the generosity of the following who initially supported my first “organized” philanthropic organization: Aida Cobankiat, Baby de Jesus, Connie Haw, Amelia Ting, Salome Uy, Abeth Yu, Willin Chan of Beabi, Linda Tan of The Spa and Julie Carceller of PLDT-Smart Foundation. Your donations will greatly benefit the children of the EJ Litton Foundation, Inc. I am also grateful to Dusit Thani Manila for co-hosting (the second time around) my party and the fantastic spread of exquisite cocktail fare at every corner of the grand ballroom, bari-tenor Jack Salud, Ed Zialcita and the sultry Bea Tantoco for the melodies, Junjun Ablaza and Michele Sison for the flamboyant fashion show and Richard Tiu for the equally flamboyant birthday cake, lawyer Gilda Lim and partner Glen Sto. Domingo for the lively jive number, Rustan’s, Beabi, Laneige, Aficionado Germany Perfume and Joel Cruz Signatures for the bags of little indulgences for my guests. And, finally, to all the men and women whom I have met — whether as a late-night TV talk show host, a society columnist and on the numerous events that I have served as emcee, it was my honor and pleasure to have met you. I surely will not be here if not for you. You see, it is never the host that defines the party. It is you, my dear and valued friends!

The finest luncheon at Phoenix Court

The ageless health and fitness guru Cory Quirino, together with her family and friends, recently had an exquisite Oriental luncheon at The Bellevue’s Phoenix Court, the first and only fine dining Chinese restaurant in Alabang. Highly-efficient Bellevue GM Patrick Chan and affable marketing and communications director Ryan Chan once again played excellent hosts to a fine afternoon of authentic Chinese dining experience. Guests truly had a great time bonding over a bountiful feast prepared by brilliant Phoenix Court executive chef Cheong Kwan Loong. They only had the best things to say about the restaurant’s flavorful specialties including roasted peking duck, steamed lapu-lapu with tausi sauce and home-made bean curd with garlic oyster sauce. From the great food to the plush interiors and impeccable service, everyone thoroughly had an enjoyable lunch at Phoenix Court!