Elegant & benevolent

Prominent VIPs from the business, diplomatic and social circles made up the guest list of The 2018 Best Dressed Women of the Philippines (BDWP) Awards Ball, a monumental event for a very noble cause, held at the Grand Ballroom of Okada Manila in Parañaque City.

2018 BDWP Ambassador for Life Ofelia Wadle (center) receives one of the evening’s raffle prizes, a Philippine Airlines Business Class ticket to Bangkok, on behalf of the winner Emily Ojeda Yriarte. Also in photo are Roy Gonzales and Roselle Rebano.

The event was led by Philippine Cancer Society (PCS) chairman Antonio Ma. J. Guerrero and trustee Dr. Kelly Salvador, alongside BDWP chairperson Angola Consul Helen Ong with the selection and organizing committee composed of your columnist as adviser and project head Roselle Rebano. It showcased the elegance of the 17 awardees led by Style Icons Yoli Ayson and Darlene Ardeña Go as they paraded in elaborate gowns created by talented Filipino designers.

Eileen Gonzales with 2018 BDWP Ambassadors for Life Noel Gonzales and Aficionado Perfumes and Personal Care president and CEO Joel Cruz.

In stylish gowns and crisp suits, the distinguished guests and their party wholeheartedly contributed to the cause to make the future of the Philippines cancer-free not just by attending but also by participating in the auction, which raised additional funds for cancer beneficiaries. The items that were auctioned included a brass sculpture called Ilustrada made by artist Dominic Rubio in collaboration with jewelry powerhouse Hoseki, and a glass sculpture called To Love and Nurture by renowned sculptor Ramon Orlina.

(From left) Natalie Lim-Ang, Eni Alba, Madison Galeries owner Joy Rustia, Carolyn Tan and 2018 BDWP Ambassador for Life Michelle Lim.

For 15 years, the PCS has provided financial and emotional assistance to cancer-stricken patients in the fringes of society. Many thanks to our generous sponsors Okada Manila, Insular Life, BA Securities, PAGCOR, CATS Motors, Wilcon Depot, The Aivee Clinic and SM Foundation.

Congratulations to the Best Dressed Women of the Philippines and Philippine Cancer Society for another successful ball! On to next year!

(From left) Stefan Co, Hoseki partner and chief creative officer Knoi Esmane, COO Harold Co, CEO Grace Co, 2018 BDWP Ambassador for Life and Hoseki corporate affairs director Zabeth Co and founder Faico.