Celebrations
Acelebration of life and love... that is what a golden wedding anniversary signifies. It marks half a century of love and commitment, 50 years of togetherness sharing life's ups and downs. When Ferdie and Corie (Lacson) Jakosalem reached this milestone last July 26, their loving son Dojoe with wife Nana, and devoted daughter Trina, gathered family and very close friends for an intimate dinner at No. 9 restaurant.
It was a surprise party that had Corie wiping away tears of joy and Ferdie grinning from ear to ear. They thought they were just having dinner with Dojoe, Nana and Trina, when they saw Manila-based granddaughters Louise and Gianna greeting them at the restaurant foyer. And then there were Corie's Bacolod relatives led by four of her siblings— Nellie, Vicky, Agnes and Bobby with wife Connie. Also around were Ferdie's sister Iris with hubby Leo Lastimosa, nephews and nieces, and their dearest friends.
The golden celebration began with Holy Mass and renewal of vows officiated by Fr. Lucas Inoc. Ferdie and Corie turned misty-eyed as Trina presented a restored video of the wedding in Bacolod five decades ago. It was Gabby Leyson's re-telling of the events that led to that beautiful event that had everyone in rapt attention. Gabby was Ferdie's best man.
All eyes were on Ferdie and Corie as they cut their cake surrounded
by loving family. Indeed those were golden moments for the golden couple!
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Another celebration of life was the lovely afternoon at the Activity Center of Ayala Center Cebu when accomplished lady educator, Dr. Mila Espina organized an activity dubbed "Celebration of Life." It was the day before her birthday and the celebration brought together co-educators, colleagues in Zonta Club 1 and civic clubs, admirers from different sectors of government and society, and former students.
The musical affair saw the participation of grateful alumni who were under her wings in drama and music at the University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R). They all performed with "mucho gusto" onstage. Most of them have now made their names in various fields.
Very much part of the program was the awarding of the Talento Cebuano 2019 for their exemplary skills and performances in the USJ-R Dramatic and Cultural Ensemble musicales and international shows.
Capping the happy occasion was the awarding of the Hall of Fame of Success 2019, when retired Ambassador Francisco Benedicto did the honors. Awardees included Ret. Rev. Msgr. Roberto Alesna for enduring religious services and parish management; Ramon Sebastian for his support and participation in the scholarship program and cultural shows of USJ-R in Beijing and the USA; Dr. Edgar Alosbaños for his international cultural research and academic excellence; Dr. Anita Sanchez for her prominence in the academic and accounting profession, and leadership in socio-civic and community projects; Bessie Espina Villamor for her accomplishment in the banking profession, civic involvement, and leadership in the USJ-R Drac-Alumni; and Noel Seno for USJ-R-Drac leadership and performances.
Highlight of the festivities was, of course, the singing of the birthday song for beloved Madam Mila and the blowing out of the candles on her birthday cake. Cheers!