Oh, Meldy!

For many years, dahlings, the Friends of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (fccp) has taken its cue from its guiding star–philanthropist and patron of the arts Imelda Ongsiako-Cojuangco. Meldy, who has won many hearts through her gracious and generous ways, was feted in a tribute organized by the fccp at the Tower Club.

Not surprisingly, the affair was extremely well attended. Members of the fccp and Meldy’s famille and super pals came in full force, too many to name but take a peek at the mega-personas on this spread, palanggas!

The tribute started with an invocation by Bishop Crisostomo Yalung and a welcome address by fccp’s hard-working president Thelma Gana. The highlight of the evening was the palabas, and from every corner of Meldy’s life, outpourings of love, admiration and thanks were evident. Daughters Marvie and Ningning and their friends did a sizzling cha-cha, while the grandchildren did a modern dance number. Meldy’s pals joined with a beautiful Alcamfor.

Tributes also came from the musical arts, long supported by Meldy. The Manila Symphony Orchestra II, singers Lorna Llames and Jonathan Bado, pianist Nena del Rosario Villanueva, Dr. Manny Almelor with kundimans and the fccp Chorale with a rousing "Hello Meldy!"

To cap off the evening, Meldy was presented with a plaque of appreciation by Cultural Center of the Philippines chairman Bal Endriga. Inimitable emcee Johnny Litton offered a toast to Meldy, who in turn gave a heartfelt response.

Remember, palanggas, "Doing what’s right in the eyes of our Lord today will definitely mean no regrets tomorrow." Smile. See you.