Neri: Celebrations

RICARDO and Angelina Ong’s love story began in 1962 when a lovestruck Ricardo couldn’t take his eyes off the young Angelina Lim. They married on Christmas day of the same year.

Fast forward to Dec. 25, 2012—50 blissful years, four accomplished children and 14 grandchildren later, they renewed their marriage vows before Rt. Msgr. Roberto Alesna at the Sacred Heart Parish Church.

WITH THE PRINCIPAL SPONSORS Front row: Dame Norma H. Liu, Elizabeth Go, Consul Augusto Go and Sir Knight Leo Lim Liu. At the back are (from left) Theresa Ong, Helena Benedicto and Consul Emily B. Chioson (proxy for her Mom Consul Leontina Benedicto), Ambassador Francisco Benedicto, Consul Enrique Benedicto and Engr. Ignacio Ong.
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The golden bride was radiant in a gold and white gown by Philip Rodriguez. On the other hand, her entourage of grandaughters were in gold gowns designed by one of them, Erika Hayco, daughter of Eleanor and Edward. Another talented grandaughter, Patricia Ang (daughter of Elsa and Patrick) sang one of Angelina’s favorite songs during the reception.

The lovely evening at the Pacific Grand Ballroom of the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel began with a Samba-inspired dance number by the Cebu City Dance Sport team. The same group performed a dance detailing the love story of the golden couple.

The highlight of the party was when the youthful-looking Angelina went onstage and stood on top of a huge golden cake. Ricardo then appeared from nowhere—down the ceiling a la James Bond and gave his bride a bouquet of flowers and a kiss. Very romantic and dramatic! Pretty soon the cake grew two more tiers and “snow” started falling. Then the four Ong children—Eleanor, Emily, Osbert and Elsa—gave a toast to their beloved parents with their spouses and children joining them. A picture of a happy, happy family!
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It was one big family celebration when USA-based Lydia Garcia Hill came home to celebrate her 80th birthday. Her loving children honored her with a dinner party at the Celebrity Ballroom of Montebello Villa Hotel. Playing gracious hosts were sons Antonio and Dennis Dindo and daughters Bernadette G. Lopez, Consuelo G. Pausanos and Ethel G. Socash. Red was the color of the night with the celebrant wearing a striking red Philippine terno.

Very much part of the program was the tribute each of the children gave to their beloved Mama who was widowed early and raised the five of them on her own. Then each one’s family presented an entertainment number to the surprise and delight of dear, dear Mama.