Cherry Blossoms in Makati

Indeed, dahlings, though cherry blossoms usually bloom in May, in cosmo-Manille it came into full bloom half a full moon ago, during the birthday bash of society columnist, moi’s palangga Resty Vergara. Continuing the Oriental theme from last year’s Chinese-inspired soiree, this time the theme came from the home of Zen and haiku, tea ceremonies and Mount Fuji and, naturellement, the breath-taking shower of cherry blossoms.

There was no shortage of glitter here with guests like Joanne Salgado, Tito and Pacita de Guzman, Pitang Tiongson, body beautiful Cory Quirino, pals of the celebrator Donnie Ramirez and Gilbert Perez, Monique Zani, Ernie and Fe Yu, James Lau, Celia Cuasay, architect James Jao, Bob Zozobrado with Don Valerio, Gener Caringal, Arleen Ong and more pals. Cheers!

* * *

Spain-based The Barcelo Group, a leading resort management company, dahlings, formally launched its tie-up with the Asturias Hotel in Palawan during a bright full moon. More than 200 invitees jetted in from Manille, Cebu, Davao and Iloilo for the grand event.

Eric Mendoza, mega-GM of the Barcelo Asturias Hotel, welcomed the hotshots and introduced Wilson Tan, chairman of the Asturias Hotel and John Cogul, CEO for Barcelo Group Asia Pacific. A symbolic key was handed over to the Barcelo Group for the formal turn-over; apres that the new logo was unveiled.

Guest speakers included soon-to-leave popular Ambassador of Spain Tomas Rodriguez-Pantoja, Tourism Usec. Roland Reyes and then Puerto Princesa Mayor Dennis Socrates.

The Barcelo Group operates mid-market to high-end hotels and resorts all over the world from its corporate base in Majorca, Spain. Founded by Simon Barcelo in 1931, it now owns and/or manages 120 properties in 25 countries.

* * *

Remember, palanggas, "True happiness comes only from knowing our Lord Jesus Christ." Smile. See you.