A good read

The esteemed Society for Cultural Enrichment Inc. (SCEI) has published a book entitled Wala Lang: 500-Word Articles on Philippine Life and Culture by SCEI vice chair Dr. Jaime “Jimmy” Laya.  

Launched at the Manila Hotel, the book is a compilation of weekly newspaper articles on little known facets of our country’s history and culture. SCEI chairperson and Angola Consul Helen Ong says the topics include heritage preservation, fiestas, travel, customs and traditions. Notable are several articles on the restoration of the Pozo de la Virgen — a live spring at the Sta. Ana Church in Manila deemed miraculous by believers since pre-Hispanic times — which was sponsored by the SCEI.

Seen at the book launch were Brazilian Ambassador Alcides Gastao Rostand Prates, Spanish Ambassador Jorge Domecq and former Ambassador to Japan Domingo Siazon, Jr., among others.

Despite what the title suggests, this book is an interesting reading for both Filipinos and non-Filipinos.

Congratulations to SCEI!

8 years of nurturing artistry and culture

 In celebration of its eight years as a dynamic design lifestyle destination, LRI Design Plaza spearheaded by president Toni Lo, recently held its first of two anniversary exhibits dubbed Trans:Culture, a contemporary furniture and object display by cross-cultural arts and design group Epoch.

Noted personalities from the industry such as Chamber of Furniture Industries of the Philippines (CFIP) president Oscar Chan, architects Bobby Mañosa and Ed Calma and OMO furniture designer Milo Naval graced the momentous affair. The breathtaking exhibit featured multi-talented Filipino designers Jinggoy Buensuceso, Daniel Latorre Cruz and Martha Cech and multi-awarded Japanese artist Wataru Sakuma, who all proudly showcased their works of art. 

Congratulations!

Buffet, buddies and birthdays

A group of bosom buddies called “Everybody’s Group” led by Minerva Tanseco treated the gracious Beng Fores to a lavish Asian buffet lunch on her birthday. It was another moment to cherish for Minerva’s one and only sister in the loving company of her close friends.

Here’s to more birthdays and happy memories, Beng!

A blissful union

The year 2012 is definitely a new, promising start for lovely couple Juan “Jay” Rodrigo Ponce Enrile and Danielle “Dani” Lopez Tabuena, who recently tied the knot at the Ponce Enrile residence in Dasmariñas Village, Makati.

The magnificent home was transformed into a romantic venue for the wedding and reception, adorned with soft mood lighting, billowy curtains and vibrant flowers of purple and red. Over 500 family members and friends gushed as the blushing bride and her dashing groom, clad in stunning creations by Randy Ortiz, exchanged vows during the Christian wedding presided by pastor Gus Lising.

Proud parents, Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and wife Ambassador Cristina Castañer-Ponce Enrile, and Luigi and Lorna Tabuena were very happy about the union. A lavish reception followed with a banquet of over 60 Filipino, Moroccan and American-inspired dishes. Martin Nievera and Sharon Cuneta, both principal sponsors, serenaded everyone during the affair.

A toast to a blissful new life together, Jay and Dani!