No Hidden Agendas

The tall, dignified-looking Ambassador Jorge Chavez Soto hosted his first Peru National Day celebration at the embassy residence, and it must have been a challenge remembering the many new names and faces. Second Secretary Wilbert and Isabel Haya assisted in welcoming the huge crowd while petite and pretty Trade and Commercial Secretary Anna Atilano busied herself with details attendant to the reception.

Those who had a chance to chat with Ambassador Chavez presumably discovered his quick wit and humor, engaging assets not readily suggested by his serious mien. On my way out, I exchanged greetings with theater personalities Anton Juan and Behn Cervantes, and San Agustin Museum curator Padre Pedro Galende.

At CWC’s annual charity merienda, it was obvious that the members headed by president Lulu T. Castaneda were pretending to be passengers on a Carribbean cruise ship anchored at the Pen ballroom. Dressed in vividly colored costumes, they later gyrated and wiggled their hips in "El Baile de los Mantones," "Las Chicas de los Abanicos" and "Las Estrellitas del Oriente" choreographed by Jeremy Vallejo. Seen lustily applauding were special guests Mila Drilon, wife of the Senate President, Michelline Jess, wife of the German ambassador, and, more particularly, National Artist for Dance Leonor Orosa Goquingco.

Not any less appreciative were Justa K. Tantoco, Loleng Panlilio, Josie Padilla Rufino, Frannie Jacinto, Malaysian Angela Filma-Faustino, and of course president Lulu, co-chairs Cecile Limjoco and Myrna Borromeo.

Dante Castillo crafted this year’s art work for Limited Edition Plates; judges Ben Farrales, Boysie Villavicencio and Bambi Harper voted Norie Ongsiako, Mellie Ablaza and Letty Syquia best-dressed among those present.

In our time, Sigma Delta Phi Sorority members admired the gentle-but-firm and enterprising leadership of our then president Georgitta "Beng" Puyat. Now, we’re doubly glad she’s been elected president of the UN Development Fund for Women. With her vast experience as past president of countless socio-civic organizations, Beng will bring honor to her new post.

Terence D. Jones, personable UNDP resident representative, was special guest and inducting officer at rites which likewise installed Olga S. Martel, chair; Virma P. Vergel de Dios, vp; Alma Calleja and Lourdes C. Quezon, secretaries; Linda Villanueva and Linda Panlilio, trustees.