Gone are the days when people around would say, “Bless you!” when you sneezed or give you a number when you coughed. These days, when that happens, people move away from you as if you have the plague. Even the air we breathe is under attack. One wonders if any of us will ever live to be a hundred years old!
Get to meet an amazing centenarian, Jessie Lichauco, at the March 12 screening of “Curiosity, Adventure and Love,” a multiawarded documentary on Philippine history through the eyes of the 108-year-old. The hourlong film will be followed by a discussion on the filmmaking process with the directors Sunshine Lichauco de Leon and Suzanne Richiardone.
Sunshine is the granddaughter of Jessie, and her film weaves together three threads—Jessie’s life in the 1930s at the age of 18, our own country’s history as she witnessed it, and her insights and wisdom recalling the past. Jessie was married to Marcial Lichauco, a prominent lawyer who lobbied for our independence in Washington, DC, before World War II. She had a front-row seat to the rebirth of our nation. After the war, Jessie’s conviction to help the Filipino people, led to the granting of her Philippine citizenship.
Tickets for the 8 p.m. screening at SM Aura (P300 each) must be purchased in advance. According to Jessie, the secret to long life is moderation—a little bit of everything. I believe she also is receiving good karma for all her acts of kindness through the years.
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Animal advocate
Another charitable force, who has been focusing on abandoned animals, is Nancy Cu Unjieng, president of Compassion and Responsibility for Animals Welfare Philippines (Cara). Cara recently organized a fundraising event to help their animals as well as the animals affected by the Taal Volcano eruption. The project was organized by Nancy, along with Wito Quimson, Lorrie Reynoso and singer Louie Heredia.
It was a truly dazzling evening with music from singers 92 AD and the strong and vibrant voice of pop singer Venice Valdez. Manila’s glitterati graced the event, and also greeted birthday girl Wito.
Special thanks to United Kingdom Ambassador Daniel Pruce and Rachael Morgan who offered their beautiful home as venue of the fundraiser.
Art auction
More good karma will surely be granted to widely acclaimed abstractionist Justin Nuyda. After being diagnosed with cancer last year, Justin decided to pay tribute to his doctors.
For the upcoming Salcedo Auctions, he has donated four special pieces, named after his doctors, with proceeds of each going toward assisting the Kythe Foundation in its efforts to improve the quality of life of hospitalized children with cancer and other chronic illnesses.
Salcedo Auctions kicked off its 10th year with a dinner for partners and close friends. The evening gathered respected individuals from various fields for good food, insightful conversation, and of course, fine art, jewelry and timepieces.
Among around 200 pieces that will be up for bidding March 14 are three oil on canvas works by National Artist H.R. Ocampo, from his famous abstractionist period in the 1960s and provide unique insight into the development of his style. These are complemented by artworks from the collection of renowned jewelry artist Celia Molano.
Art patrons can also look forward to a sterling lineup of works by National Artists Fernando Amorsolo, Cesar Legaspi, Vicente Manansala, Jose Joya and BenCab. Also included are works by modern masters Lee Aguinaldo, Nena Saguil, and contemporary stalwarts Ronald Ventura, Lao Lianben, Rodel Tapaya, Elaine Navas, Ramon Orlina, Elmer Borlongan and Emmanuel Garibay.
Completing the entire selection are highly collectible designer watches such as a Patek Philippe Advanced Research Aquanaut Travel Time, an elegant Maria Gaspari lady’s diamond bracelet, and a Patek Philippe Nautilus Flyback Chronograph.
Salcedo Auctions will be holding the Important Philippine Art auction March 14, 2 p.m., at NEX Tower, 6786 Ayala Avenue, Makati City. The public preview runs 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily until March 13.
Tel. 86594094, 88230956, 0917-1075581; email [email protected]
Women entrepreneurs
I was happy to talk about charity at the recently concluded Go Negosyo’s 15th Filipina Entrepreneurship Summit. It was wonderful to be surrounded by young women, all listening to inspiring entrepreneurial stories of Filipina entrepreneurs and women advocates.
Among the panelists with me were Dr. Vicki Belo, CEO of Belo Medical Group, and Georgina Wilson-Burnand, cofounder and marketing director of Sunnies Studios, as well as other excellent entrepreneurs.
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