A gathering of maritime masters

To my dear readers, let me greet all of you a Happy New Year. As we bid goodbye to another year full of joy and adventures, let us welcome 2009 with overflowing love and hope!

Providing a more stable legal environment for the country’s seafarers and shipping industry, The Maritime Law Association of the Philippines (MARLAW) continues to reinforce the country’s national policies and flag registry by honoring its officers during the recent induction ceremonies and Christmas fellowship at the Tower Club. With Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero as guest of honor, MARLAW president Joseph Manolo “Jerby” Rebano delivered the inaugural address and led the induction of the new members with the help of Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Bayani Fernando. Rebano is a partner at the Del Rosario & Del Rosario, the firm founded by his grandfather, the internationally renowned maritime lawyer, Arturo M. Del Rosario.

Attending the milestone event were notable personalities from the justice, maritime and business circles such as Tony Velicaria, MARLAW outgoing president Bartazar “Bart” Repol and Philippine Bar Association president Johnny Del Rosario. With new members joining the esteemed organization, The Maritime Law Association of the Philippines will continue to work in alignment with the international convention and business practices of the global shipping community.

Congratulations!

A fabulous birthday bash

Lovely celebrants Abeth Yu and Ruby Chua recently celebrated their birthdays together in grand fashion at the newly-opened Lolo Dad’s, the former site of Giraffe. The two gorgeous ladies invited their closest friends to an intimate gathering that was punctuated with great company and the usual excellent cuisine and ambiance. Special guests during the occasion were SM Prime Holdings, Inc. president Hans Sy’s beautiful wife Carol and handsome son Chico, and taipan Lucio Tan’s statuesque daughter Irene Tan Luy.

Happy birthday, ladies and many more to come to Johnny’s angels!

The finest from the Philippines

The Philippines recently showcased its finest local arts and crafts when the country participated at The Madrid Rastrillo Nuevo Futuro para Los Niños in Spain. The grand charitable affair opened its doors once again with embassies, antique stores, cafes and boutiques selling all kinds of items. Mari Borao, Ambassador Antonio and Linda Lagdameo together with some Filipinos who have made Madrid their residence, met her royal majesty Queen Sofia Margaret Victoria Frederica of Spain and the ivory-skinned Princess Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano of Spain as they visited the booth of the Philippine embassy.