Last Nov. 25, Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos threw a mega-wedding party for the marriage of her son, lawyer Michael Ferdinand Marcos Manotoc, to Carina Amelia Gamboa Manglapus, held in Saint Augustine Church, a Unesco World Heritage Site in Paoay. This was followed by a wedding reception at the Paoay Church Plaza.
The bride and groom come from opposite ends of the political spectrum. The bride descends from the Manglapus family, whose patriarch, the late former senator Raul Manglapus, led the opposition against Marcos in the 1970s. Love indeed knows no bounds.
Guests from out of town experienced Ilocano hospitality par excellence. Upon one’s confirmation of attendance, each guest was assigned a coordinator to help with travel and lodging bookings, and arrangements to and from the venues while in Laoag.
A guest guide was provided, where everything you possibly need to know is listed—getting there, accommodations, activities the day before, on the big day and till the day after.
Imee added her personal touch. She welcomed guests at the airport. Her love of theater and arts was evident in the entertainment presented. Ilocano wedding traditions and culture were incorporated in the celebration.
Plated Ilocano haute cuisine was served, such as Sinanglao Consommé with Bone Marrow Tenderloin Strips and Watercress, Spiced Batac Longganisa Pasta, and for the main course, Paper Thin Gourmet Bagnet with Ipon, Bagoong Relish, Tukmen in Olive Oil, Tiger Prawn Al Ajillo, Deviled Crab Cake, Pan-Grilled Norwegian Salmon, Asparagus Pinakbet with Mountain Red Rice.
She was able to tap into the bayanihan spirit of the community. The governor’s attention to detail, flair and encouragement mobilized the youth. You could feel the young folk’s sense of pride as they showcased the best Ilocos Norte has to offer.
Imee was truly the ultimate hostess for this event, and one can certainly learn a thing or two from her. —CONTRIBUTED
