An honor well deserved

It was another milestone for the incomparable Guatemala Consul Amelia “Mellie” Ablaza, who was recently conferred the Diplomatic Order of Antonio José de Irisarri, to the Degree of Grand Officer by no less than Guatemala Ambassador Byron Rene Escobedo Menendez. Issued especially by the President and Chancellor of Guatemala, the award was given in recognition of the consul’s unwavering service in strengthening the friendship and bilateral ties between Guatemala and the Philippines.

To celebrate the significant occasion, a grand reception was hosted by the Guatemala consulate at the Manila Polo Club’s Turf Room. Ambassadors, dignitaries and members of the Consular Corps of the Philippines, led by its current dean, Armenia Consul General Jose Periquet Jr., and vice dean, Japan Consul General Motohiko Kato, attended the gathering. The Central American-themed affair had guests enjoying superb cocktails and vintage wines, top-notch musical entertainment and warm camaraderie typical of an Ablaza party.

Congratulations, Mellie! Keep up the great work!

Stretch to good health!

Individuals seeking to improve their over-all health will surely be delighted as the five-star Bellevue Hotel recently opened StretchFirst, the first and only therapeutic stretch clinic in the Philippines that uses a revolutionary technique called Dynamic Therapeutic Stretching (DTS). The technique helps relieve muscle aches and pains, rheumatism, arthritis and edema, among others.

Hospitable Bellevue Hotels and Resort managing director Patrick Chan, corporate director for marketing and communications Ryan Chan and StretchFirst chairman and DTS master trainer Chris Watts graced the launching of the new fitness service available at the hotel’s gym at the main wing.

Congratulations!

(The StretchFirst clinic offers a free trial at The Bellevue gym.

For inquiries, call The Bellevue Hotel at 771-8181. Visit

www.thebellevue.com.)

Creating harmony for a cause

The ever passionate Minerva Tanseco, president of laudable socio-civic organization, Inner Wheel Club of Manila (IWCM), continuously inspires members to actively participate in the club’s various endeavors benefiting the community.

Minerva successfully led one of IWCM’s major projects — a chorale that involved the ladies singing at friends’ homes to raise funds for the organization while improving their talents and skills, and fostering camaraderie and fellowship among the group.

Bravo, Minerva and the IWCM chorale for this very well-received project!

Creative masterpieces for the home

Spruce up your abode with extraordinary creations that speak of ingenious Filipino artistry coupled with soulful sleekness and an earthy vibe. Studio 10.10 resident designer extraordinaire Niccolo Jose is inviting everyone to his newest furniture exhibit ideal for residential interiors from March 1 to 15 at the Archaeology area (R2 Level in front of National Book Store) of Rockwell Power Plant Mall in Makati City. Discover soulful art and experience first-hand Studio 10.10’s unique, hand-crafted products inspired by a mixture of modern and unique designs, but rooted in solid woods and traditional craftsmanship.

(For inquiries, call 822-6976 or e-mail [email protected].)