THE ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has caused a lot of adjustment not only to Filipinos but people around the world. Many have adopted the "new normal" way of living to protect themselves from the virus.

Aside from the resilient nature of Filipinos, their love for social gatherings -- be it a simple dinner with family or a large party with friends -- has also been an innate characteristic.

This gave birth to the innovative idea of the family of Felicisima "Fely" Cariño to celebrate her 80th natal day on January 6.

The party was held at Essel Farm in Barangay Sta. Monica in San Simon town, Pampanga is complete with a birthday cake, lights and sound set-up and venue arrangement.

Instead of the usual reception, visitors only stayed in their vehicles and expressed their greetings and well-wishes for the celebration by driving-thru.

George Carino, one of the seven children of Felicisima, said the family wanted to make their matriarch's birthday celebration joyful while still ensuring the safety of everybody.

"Eighty years of life is a big blessing and we wanted our mother to enjoy her birthday, and as her way of thanksgiving also, we thought of having this drive-thru birthday celebration," he said.

A gathering is not considered a party without food, so the family also packed meals for visitors that were also given after their greetings.

Felicisima expressed gratitude to her family and friends who remembered and made her day special even with the challenge of the pandemic.