Man of merit

Lopez Group chairman Oscar Lopez was bestowed the Officer’s Cross of the Order of Merit (Verdienstkreuz I, Klausse) of the Federal Republic of Germany.

Lopez, currently chairman and CEO of Benpres Holdings Corporation, First Philippine Holdings Corporation and ABS-CBN Holdings Corporation, was honored for his outstanding achievements as businessman and promoter of the Philippine-German cooperation and friendship. German Ambassador Dr. Axel Weishaupt said this is the first time a Filipino businessman has received the highest award from Germany.

Lopez has been co-chairman of the Philippine-German Business Council since 2001. He just turned 75 and has experienced an exceptional career in quite exciting times. His curriculum vitae is indeed an example of living history. The Lopez family has a long-term business relationship with Germany and Oscar has been a frequent traveler between the two countries. Business contacts in the power sector with Siemens as early as 1960 resulted not only in fruitful business relationships but also in a personal friendship with the Siemens family. Lopez was asked to assume co-chairmanship of the Philippine-German Business Council in 2001, taking on the job with great steadfastness enthusiasm.

Congratulations to Mr. Lopez for such a great feat!

Shooting stars

Shooting stars are sure to grace the 2005 Defense and Sporting Arms Show because it will feature for the first time a practical shooting simulation to attract more youngsters to engage in the sport.

Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers of the Philippines, Inc. (AFAD) president Neri Dionisio invites everyone to watch the practical shooting simulation in the gun show. The Philippines has produced a lot of champions in the international practical shooting competition. Now it’s time for a new breed of shooters to represent our country and make Filipinos proud again.

Come and find out if you have what it takes! Join the 2005 Defense and Sporting Arms Show on July 14-18 at the Megatrade Hall of SM Megamall.

(For inquiries, call Elvie Maghinang at 6718381 to 82.)

A beach cove at the mall

A beach at the mall? You’d better believe it!

Glorietta 3 of the Ayala Center was transformed into a famous beach cove as PILMAP Travel and Leisure recently launched the second edition of their bestseller — The Beaches of the Philippines, a special travel publication aimed at promoting the country as a prime beach holiday destination.

PILMAP publisher Gabriel dela Cruz and his wife Aida, Col. Tony Gana, and Editor Vic Lactaoen made sure that the event was a success, while GM Aimee Gana warmly welcomed everyone, including guests from the Department of Tourism led by Information Executive Leona Nepumoceno.

A fashion show featuring clothes from Rustan’s and other stores, capped the afternoon affair. Angono’s Brass Band, the DOT’s Rondalla and Inductourismo dance group, and Latin percussion band The Hairy Dogs provided lively music for the festivities.

Congratulations for a successful launch!

Mapaghimalang Birhen ng Caysasay

Check out master composer Ryan Cayabyab’s new religious musical Mapaghimalang Birhen ng Caysasay at the CCP Little Theater starting today until July 10.

With a powerhouse cast that includes internationally acclaimed stage veteran Cocoy Laurel, sharing the lead role with popular singer-songwriter Ogie Alcasid, plus brilliant vocalist Ivy Violan and many other talented performers, this musical tribute written and directed by Nestor Torre Jr. is sure to enchant audiences.

Executive producer and renowned sculptor Ramon Orlina hopes the show will help spread positive messages of love, peace and healing inspired by the Miraculous Virgin of Casaysay.

(For tickets, call the CCP box office at 832 3704 or Ticketworld at 891 9999.)