CEBU, Philippines - The evening began with the induction of 21 new members, led by dames Isabelita Abello, Zenaida Chua, Melanie Castre, Marilita Magos, Beth Metcalf and Frances Siao. The chevaliers included Tonino Ciarrochi, Daniele Costantin, Jerome Escalona, Michel Guinefolleau, David Leonard, Jose Limalima, Daniel Mercado, Patrick Pangilinan, Kaiser Tan and Michel Villar. The maître hoteliers were Patrick Carroll, Nenette Castillon, Maria Lopez, and the maître rotisseurs were Adrien Guerey and Andrea Lamera. Elevated to the rank of commandeur were Amparito Lhuillier and Richard Uysiuseng, while Victoria Hermosisima was promoted as officer.
The six-course sit-down dinner was an exercise in excellence, all in the name of the Chaine. The piece de resistance was the main dish of beef tournedos, "foie gras" and truffle crème. The sommelier expertly chose wines to accompany each of the courses and succeeded with an excellent match.
Entertainment was nothing short of spectacular. Musical director, producer and entertainer, Franz Langer, accompanied Austrian opera singer Christa Kruit Hemetsberger on the piano. This was followed by the Follies the Mwah, Asia's most outstanding Broadway Musical Performing Group. The finale featured a fantastic mini fashion show by internationally renowned couturier Cary Santiago, who is known for his unique designs, intricate patterns and laser cutting technique in couture design.
The gala dinner was an unforgettable celebration, where solemnity was pleasantly blended with an outstanding conviviality. A big thank-you is due to the organizers of the programme, GM Hans Hauri, hotel manager, Julie Najar, executive chef, Stefano Verillo, executive sous chef Juanito Abangan, Joward Tongco, assistant F & B manager and Josef Chiongbian, events and promotions manager for a truly memorable evening. (FREEMAN)