A glamorous gathering for charity

It was an elegant afternoon to remember as some of the most dazzling individuals in the country gathered together to witness the portraits of the kind-hearted men and women in the opening cocktails of the photo exhibit of the Philippine Cancer Society’s (PCS) 2011 Best Dressed Women of the Philippines held recently at the Fashion Walk of Greenbelt 5. Led by PCS chairman Dr. Roberto Paterno and Angola Consul Helen Ong, together with the organizing and selection committee composed of honorary chairperson Imelda Cojuangco, Mabel Abaño, Tanzania Consul Betty Chua, Roy Gonzales, Roselle Rebano and Sandie Poblador, the opening of the photo exhibit titled “A Toast to Life” was full of great friendship and camaraderie. Guests shared laughter and ideas while enjoying the mouthwatering delicacies served by French Baker led by its founder Johnlu Koa. The exhibit was also done in partnership with the Camera Club of the Philippines spearheaded by its president Armand Apuya.

Starring in the photo exhibit are this year’s Best Dressed awardees composed of Cris Albert, Marcott Almeda, Alelee Aguilar Andanar, Ruby Jane Chua, Cristina Gomez, Connie Haw, Shelly Lazaro, Small Laude, Len Olbes, Joy Onglatco, Sheila Romero and the Style Icons’ Janet Ley and Letty Santos whose classic portraits were taken by the Camera Club’s most prominent members Armand Apuya, Rey Ortiz, Joey Montalban, Patrick Uy and Raul Montifar. Also taking the spotlight in the exhibit are the Ambassadors of Life composed of Rose Basa, Aficionado’s Joel Cruz, Florence Defensor, Gambia Consul Agnes Huibonhoa, Mars Lambino, Gilda Lim, Thess Manganti, Marge Ortiz Luis, Angie Sison and Oscar Violago.

The meaningful event, a prelude to this year’s annual Best Dressed Ball, was well-attended by respected names like The Spa’s Linda Tan, Catholic Women’s Club president Mimi Valerio, CATS Motors’ Grace Ang, Escada’s Alou Koa and celebrities Pops Fernandez and Vina Morales among many others. The annual gathering aims to raise funds for the cancer-awareness campaigns all over the country.

A blissful union

In keeping with their carefree spirit and love of the sea, sweethearts Geronimo “Begs” Begre and Pamela “Pam” Ayson recently tied the knot in an elegant wedding ceremony at Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel in Club Punta Fuego, Batangas. Pam, daughter of Yoli Ayson, was radiantly beautiful in a modern Filipiniana gown made of piña silk with touches of mother-of-pearl, designed by Rajo Laurel. On the other hand, Begs, son of Roger and Olive Begre, looked especially sleek in his barong also created by Rajo.

Family and friends joyfully witnessed the matrimonial rites performed by officiating priest, Msgr. Fred Madlangbayan. Guests then proceeded to the Secret Beach in Tali for the sumptuous cocktails followed by dinner at the gorgeously-decorated Windward House where everyone enjoyed the delectable menu prepared by Margarita Fores and excellent entertainment from the Bloomfields. What a joyful occasion indeed! All the best in your new life together, Begs and Pam!