A spectacular fiesta at Villa Escudero

In commemoration of the Ascension of Jesus, the man to join God the Father in heaven, 40 days after His resurrection, a grand and lavish “Feast of the Ascension” celebration was recently held at the sprawling Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort led by gracious president and general manager Ado Escudero. This unique and annual fiesta had the vibrant community dressed in its best colorful attire with a line of bamboo poles forming an archway lining the entrance and multi-hued banners gracefully swaying in the gentle breeze.

The celebration started with a traditional higantes parade to the beautiful, floral-filled Villa Escudero Chapel by the energetic Banda Anak Zapote Bacoor, Cavite. Afterwards, a solemn concelebrated High Mass was officiated by Bengued Bishop Leopoldo Corpuz Jaucian, SVB, DD, assisted by visiting priests and accompanied by the heavenly music of the UST Symphony Orchestra and the three UST Choirs. Highlighting the event was the colorful “Bati” procession from the chapel to the Labasin river landing where the Holy Cross of Bauan, Batangas, the fully gowned Statue of Jesus (depicting his resurrection into heaven), and the members of the Higantes band embarked on a spectacular, florally-decorated pagoda barge, escorted by decorated small boats. After the tiring but fun activities, guests thoroughly enjoyed the sumptuous luncheon featuring the traditional, succulent lechon and delectable array of native delicacies. The one and only Dulce and the remarkable Tiongco Brothers entertained everyone with their rousing performances.

The best times with Minerva

Beth Tagle, Monette Guevarra and Fanny Blanco; (standing) Tec Golangco, host Tess Tumangan, Piluchi Atayde and honoree Minerva Tanseco at the Peninsula Hotel

The affable and effervescent Minerva Tanseco was recently feted to a congratulatory ladies’ night out by her friends from the Inner Wheel Club of Manila (IWCM) after being elected as the organization’s incoming president. Hosted by gracious IWCM district chairman Tess Tumangan, the fun party had everyone enjoying great food, superb drinks, and fun times at the Peninsula Hotel.

Before fully assuming her duties, Minerva and her adventurous traveling group composed of Beng Fores, Nenuca Blardony, Imelda Katigbak, Corazon Manese Perez and Boysie Villavicencio embarked on a relaxing and enjoyable,15-day Singapore-Malaysia vacation. From dining at famous, ritzy hotels to visiting enchanting tourist attractions and iconic landmarks, the group truly experienced the amazing pleasures these two countries have to offer.

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