My dearest pals showed up at my birthday bash—one of several, dahlings—at the Long Bar in Raffles Makati.
The party was organized by Raffles managing director David Batchelor and director for communications Monique Toda. They made sure every detail was taken care of and that everyone would have a blast. We surely did, palangga!
Among those who made it to the party were my travel companions Edward Garcia and Eduardo Lacson who jetted in from Bacolod, Bing de Guzman, Anton San Diego, Pepper Teehankee, Jojie Dingcong, Al Tengco; Mikey and Choy Cojuangco, Lyzette Bengzon and Marissa Echaus.
Hanging out till the wee hours that we had to be practically swept out were Kathy de Guzman, Vicky Zubiri, Ching Cruz, Minnie Osmeña, Evelyn Forbes, Carla Tengco, my beloved Tessa Prieto (on a rare night out with her hubby Dennis Valdes), Maripi Muscat, Lorrie and Cecile Reynoso, and Veana Araneta Fores.
We were serenaded by the cool band Savvy Acoustic while an excellent buffet was prepared by the Raffles team of master chefs.
Close to midnight, the guests surprised me with a birthday cake while singing “Happy Birthday.”
And that, dahlings, was just the start. Four other parties were thrown for moi!
A big thank you to David Batchelor, Marilu Toda and Monique Trinidad Toda for making my birthday memorable!
Ahead of her time
Celebrating her own birthday was former Zambales Representative and Iloilo society prime mover Dr. Pacita Trinidad-Gonzalez, who recently turned 75.
The widow of the respected statesman, Iloilo Representative and Justice Secretary Raul M. Gonzalez Sr. has always been a pillar of strength to her famille and Panay society, for which she’s known for her charities for the needy.
Trinidad-Gonzalez has always been ahead of her time. She’s a pioneer dermatologist, businesswoman and philanthropist. This combination of magnificence and magnanimity was the theme of her dazzling diamond birthday party at Manila Polo Club.
The vibrant dinner-dance ball drew a stellar list of well-wishers led by her cousin, former First Lady and now Leyte Rep. Imelda Trinidad Romualdez-Marcos, Celia Diaz-Laurel, Tessie Sy-Coson, and former Guimaras Governor Emily Relucio-Lopez.
Guests gladly received potted blooming orchids as souvenirs.
The event was superbly organized by Doc Pacita’s son, Dr. Dennis T. Gonzalez, and daughter-in-law Deeda.
Highlighting it was a fine musical performance courtesy of Cocoy Laurel, who serenaded our dear diamond lady with unforgettable love songs. A standing ovation followed.
Hearts melted when Doc Pacita’s children each gave a touching birthday wish for the celebrator. Her employees and business staff also gave warm tributes.
Well, exactly a week après, Doc Pacita hosted another birthday bash at the grand ballroom of Iloilo Midtown Hotel where her beloved Ilonggo well-wishers were given a chance to celebrate with her.
To our diamond lady, may you continue your life’s advocacy of helping the less privileged Ilonggo. Cheers, my palangga!
