'Belen' tour in the President's hometown

“A happy thought is like a seed that sows positivity for all to reap.”  – Miriam Muhammad

Spanish Ambassador Jorge Domecq and his lovely wife Rosa, together with Tarlac Heritage Foundation founders Isabel Cojuangco Suntay and daughter Dr. Isa Cojuangco Suntay, co-hosted the second “Belenismo sa Tarlac” tour for several prominent members of the diplomatic corps. The dignitaries checked out different nativity-scene representations or belens on display in select areas in the province, where they were presented with a lovely display of the generous hospitality that Tarlaqueños are known for. The visitors also took home locally grown vegetables as each home in Tarlac was encouraged by the town executives to have a backyard garden and manufacture native products such as sugar cane-based vinegar and cornick or dried corn kernels. A sumptuous dinner featuring the best of Tarlac’s native delicacies was prepared for the diplomatic corps with entertainment provided by the Tarlac State University’s chorale and dance troupe. Amazed at the sheer size of the Tarlac’s grand municipal belens compared with the ones back in his home country, Ambassador Domecq quipped, “Some are the size of office buildings yet they mirror the artistry of the Tarlaqueño soul!”

A radiant affair

It was a joyful celebration of a 32-year-old history and enduring legacy as clients, friends and partners of Jewelmer, the pioneer in golden South Sea pearls, recently gathered for the launch of Jewelmer Joaillerie. It was the brand’s first concept boutique at the Newport Mall in Resorts World Manila, Pasay City. Brilliant Jewelmer creative director Gaelle Branellec and hardworking brand manager Jacques Christophe Branellec led the welcoming of guests at the boutique that boasts of a private VIP salon, exclusive collection previews and selections of unique haute jewelry. Guests were treated to overflowing wine, sparkling champagne and scrumptious hors d’oeuvres from the French Mediterranean restaurant Beurre Blanc. The elegant affair also featured a parade of models in dazzling Jewelmer collections and exquisite couture creations. Gracing the event were Resorts World Manila president Kingson Sian and EVP Stephen Reilly, Megaworld first vice president and commercial division head Kevin Tan, Lorraine and Helena Belmonte, Angel Aquino and Tweetie de Leon-Gonzales, among many others. Congratulations!

Greetings

Happy birthday to our celebrators today, Ethel Timbol and Rovy Ledesma.

Advanced birthday greetings to Shirley Matias-Pizarro, Ernest Escaler, STAR’s Jerry Donato and brilliant lawyer Lolong Lazaro, Jan. 23; FCCP’s Pacita de Guzman and Stephen Morelos, Jan. 24; Brittany COO Camille Villar, Lito Tulod, my favorite doktora Vicki Belo and Yoli Ayson, Jan 25; Raya Mananquil, Jan. 26; world-class sculptor Ramon Orlina, actress Dina Bonnevie and Ricardo de Leon, Jan. 27.

So, how was your week?

(For comments or inquiries, please e-mail me at jjlitton@indanet.com)