AT 94 years of age, our Tio Pabling (former Deputy Speaker of the House and former Cebu Gov. Pablo P. Garcia) looks back to a public life well spent in the service of government. Still mentally active, he accurately recalls the highlights of his political career. He was basking in the love and admiration of his family and friends during the birthday dinner hosted by his loving children at the Grand Convention Center.

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Three weeks later, it was eldest daughter, Cebu Gov. Gwen Garcia who marked her birthday with a State of the Province address at the Capitol Social Hall. Highlight of the affair was a video presentation of the things she has done as well as those she had to undo during her first 100 days in office. Yes, Gov. Gwen is hyper when it comes to accomplishing goals. Guests were treated to a sumptuous cocktail spread, courtesy of her proud family who footed the bill.

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The Philippine Airlines (PAL) office in Gorordo Ave. looked festive on the day that its top sales head, Harry Inoferio chalked up another year. PAL staff, travel industry friends and well-wishers trooped to his office to give their birthday greetings.

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Surprise parties seem to be the “in” thing nowadays. A few days before her birthday, Angelita “Baby” Dy of Grand Hope Travel was invited to a brunch meeting by an airline friend. Ever accommodating and eager to get good deals, Baby said yes. She couldn’t believe her eyes when she saw friends from other airlines at the venue, happily singing the birthday song, thanks to dear friends Ann Momongan of Flaneur Travel and Malou Avila of Amadeus who organized the gathering. Then there was Sheila Colmenares of Leisure Travel who arranged a surprise dinner for Baby at Circa 1900.

Another surprise birthday honoree was Alan Carvajal who was asked to attend a travel update at Laguna Garden... and so he did, only to find friends gathered around a whole lechon. A few days later, Alan treated the same group to a seafood dinner at GrandCon. Cebu’s travel agents are a closely knit group.