It was an evening sparkling with elegance as the Faaabvlous 2025 Photo Exhibit and La Nuit a Paris Gala Night unfolded at the Grand Ballroom of Manila Marriott Hotel at Newport World Resorts in Pasay City, in partnership with the Advertising Foundation of the Philippines.
Guests gathered for this meaningful cause in support of the Hydrocephalus Foundation of the Philippines, as well as the parishes of Ina ng Laging Saklolo and San Juan Evangelista, while enjoying a charming performance of French songs by Christian Nagano.
One of the evening’s highlights was the awarding of these top recognitions, namely the Faaabvlous Apex Award presented by Brazilian Ambassador Gilberto Fonseca Guimarães de Moura and given to Mache Torres, and the Faaabvlous Icon Award given to Katrina Ponce Enrile in absentia.
Another important part of the program was the unveiling of the Faaabvlous 2026 cover ladies Shy Tan and Pia Yanson, along with this year’s celebrated roster of Faaabvlous Women, Men, Couples, Family, and Faces. Capping the night was the announcement of The Evening’s Most Faaabvlous won by Michelle Lim and was also awarded with exquisite jewelry from Lilibeth Campos.
A Parisian escape in Manila
The Metro’s well-loved boulangerie Lartizan, under the helm of its renowned founder and CEO Johnlu Koa, also the owner of French Baker, officially stepped into the limelight as a full-pledged dining destination with the grand launch of its flagship restaurant at S Maison, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.
Guests from various sectors including SM Investments Corp. vice chairperson Tessie Sy-Coson and Trade and Industry Secretary Cris Roque, were warmly welcomed by Johnlu’s ever-supportive wife and well-respected woman entrepreneur Alou Koa. Everyone present was treated to an elegant escape reminiscent of modern-day Paris, surrounded by warm wood, soft neutrals, and travel photographs personally captured by the couple’s son Jonard, echoing the soul of France. From their signature 36-hour French sourdough to indulgent pâtisserie creations and refined classics like Caviar Parfait, Salmon Mousse, and French Oyster and Fresh Oyster & Truffle Rockefeller, each bite embodied patience, precision and passion — the very spirit of French artistry. With this stunning new space, Lartizan beautifully reimagines l’art de vivre, inviting Manila to savor the French way of life, one exquisite loaf at a time.
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You may email me at jjlitton@indanet.com. Follow me on Facebook and YouTube: Johnny Litton by Jayelles PH and on Instagram: @jayellesph.