Smiles for Christmas

The who’s who of Manila gathered together to celebrate the spirit of the holidays at Dusit Thani Manila’s annual Christmas tree-lighting tradition.  The hotel’s genial general manager Alex Willats and the indefatigable Philippine Hoteliers Inc. vice chair and president Evelyn Singson spearheaded the ceremony together with Dusit Thani Manila director of communications Shariza Relova.

Popular singer-songwriter Jose Mari Chan serenaded the audience that included the reigning Binibining Pilipinas winners and the hotel’s well-heeled corporate clients. To add more cheer and holiday smiles, Dusit made a check donation to Operation Smile, an organization that provides free reconstructive facial surgery to indigent children.  

With a big smile, happy Christmas to all!

Celebrating a full life

The lovely and charming Belen Velarde, wife of Bro. Mike Velarde, leader of El Shaddai, the biggest Catholic charismatic renewal group in the country, celebrated her birthday recently with a night of ballroom dancing at the Paradise Ballroom in Amvel City, San Dionisio, Parañaque City.

The Velarde children joined their loving mom in entertaining the well-wishers. A highlight of the evening was an Argentine tango and cha-cha exhibition by former Blackpool England World Senior Latin champion Edna Ledesma and Muebles Italiano president and CEO Noel Gonzales.

Many happy returns, Mrs. Velarde!

Beautiful inside & out

A celebration of love, life and thanksgiving took place at The Continental of The Palms Country Club in Filinvest City, Alabang as the endearing Carol Mercado turned a year wiser and lovelier.

People closest to Carol’s heart were all present in the fabulous dinner party organized by her loving husband Jojo, along with their children Christine and Carl. The celebrator also took the opportunity to honor and thank all the people who have helped her in her advocacies and socio-civic projects.

The evening also became more special as Jojo and Carol were presented the Rotary International crystal and pin of distinction for their major contribution to the organization.

Here’s to more years of love, laughter and blessings, Carol!