The Casino Español de Cebu, whose founders were mostly Spaniards, continuously promotes its culture and traditions by adopting festivals that are celebrated in true Spanish style.
One such fiesta is the Dia de la Hispanidad, which is commemorated throughout the Hispanic community on Oct. 12.
This year’s event was made more meaningful with the presence of Spanish head of mission Maria del Carmen Barcia Bustelo and her husband Consul General Javier Mariano Martin Garcia.
Extending a warm welcome to members and their special guests were the club’s dedicated officers and directors led by president Paco Jarque. He was joined by vice president Gabby Leyson, secretary Buddy Veloso, treasurer Rene Kintanar, house chairman Ed Gonzalez, director of cultural affairs Anton Perdices, and director of sports Eduard Loop.
Just before dinner, Paco Jarque and Maria del Carmen Barcia Bustelo raised their glasses and led the celebratory toast to the Reyes de España and to the Filipino people who have embraced and adopted much of the Spanish culture and tradition in their daily lives.
Everyone feasted on favorite Spanish dishes laid out on various food stations that featured all-time house specialties that were meticulously prepared and masterfully created by Spanish guest chef Pablo Pardo and the club’s very own executive chef Rico Villarante.
Over a sumptuous dinner, attendees enjoyed a lively and highly expressive flamenco dance performed by members of a dance troupe from Manila. This Spanish art form is characterized by hand clapping, percussive footwork and intricate hand, arm, and body movements. Interestingly the UNESCO in 2010 declared this dance as one of the “Masterpieces of the Oral and intangible Heritage of Humanity”.
The night’s entertainment was provided by the much sought after Davao-based band Molave Junction. Their music ensured that everyone danced all night. And how! Ole!