BIRTHDAYS during the International Month for Women, were meaningful gatherings of renowned women.

Cebu has been home to many projects of my sister, Lydia Castillo, from the time she was public relations-marketing of Cathay Pacific in the ‘70s, and a writer in the Philippines Herald. Currently, her column “In My Basket” can be read in Philippine Star’s Starweek Magazine. She graced many events including those by the Cebu Business Month team, Zonta Club of Cebu 1, Department of Tourism 7, Hotel, Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu Inc., Women In Travel and the University of San Jose-Recoletos. She published a book lifted from her “Private Kitchen.” Her circle of friends in Cebu include Nelia Neri, Tina Ebrada, Lita Urbina, Aida Uy, Hans Hauri, Aiza de la Cruz, Mayen Tan and Pilar Cusi.

Her family is throwing a party on her 85th birthday at Palm Hotel Alabang. My icon, Ate Lyd, is a “compleat woman;” a mother and lola for all time.

Other March celebrants are Nelia Neri and Aida Uy, Cebu’s women of worth. Nelia is the durable and respectable writer, wife, mother and grandma. Aida is the energetic travel pacesetter and award-winning entrepreneur. Happy birthday to all!