#TYUniverse, indeed
The universe never fails to align itself for the golden boy that is our Tim Yap, or so it seems. Quite a few would even say that everything comes easily for this well-loved personality. And it’s true, to a point. Tim is definitely one of the most charismatic, successful and, I dare say, magical individuals I have had the pleasure and privilege of calling a dear friend.
But Tim’s success in both his
personal and professional lives is not just a function of luck or good graces. He is undeniably one of the hardest- working people I know — always thinking of bigger, better ways to do things, always moving onwards and upwards.
More importantly, Tim gives more than 100 percent in everything he does, be it hosting, writing, or organizing his million and one events. And the same holds true for his friendships, as he simply offers so much of himself to those around him. Those of us who have been fortunate enough to be touched by Tim’s light and love are all the better for it.
So, as he celebrated his birthday, it was only fitting to gather all his friends in the newest, chic-est place in town: Manila House. And in typical Tim fashion, he urged guests to come dressed in something inspired by their favorite national costume — a fitting nod to the Miss Universe fever that’s gripping the metro.
AND THE WINNER IS…
Suffice it to say that only Tim can gather Manila’s glitterati and get them to don all manner of national dress. Social media exploded with a smattering of gorgeous women in beautiful saris, guests in Japanese kimonos, a Cleopatra here and there.
Then there were those who clearly stood out, and made an effort to dress and play the part. Designer Rajo Laurel came dressed as Egyptian God Ra while his partner Nix Alañon played the part of Cleopatra. Actress Lovi Poe and Chris Johnson donned sexy Spanish attire. Beautiful Iza Calzado wore a lovely terno and channeled Imelda Marcos. Cristalle Belo Pitt wore a cheeky version of Thailand’s Tuktuk while Tessa Prieto Valdes piled on the accessories plus a black curly wig. No one was actually certain which national costume Tessa wore, but she made heads turn just the same. Fashion stylist and consultant PJ Pascual came in a stylized Russianinspired costume complete with an elaborate headpiece made of capiz.
And to reward those who wore their national costumes best, Tim gave away fabulous prizes like a weekend stay in Amanpulo, trips to Bangkok via Thai Airways, and anywhere in Asia via Singapore Airlines plus Rimowa luggage.
The clear winner, however, was none other than Belle Daza, who donned exactly what her mom, Gloria Diaz, wore when she won Miss Universe in 1969. To the crowd’s delight, Belle also reenacted her mom’s winning moment. For her standout look, Belle won a trip to Europe via Thai Airways.
Of course, the only ones who had every right to determine the winners were our very own Gloria Diaz and Margie Moran, both of whom won Miss Universe, together with Tim, beauty queen Bea Rose Santiago, editor Anton San Diego and entrepreneur Jojie Dingcong.
HE SAID YES!
The best of the evening was yet to come, however. Unbeknownst to his guests, Tim had plans of proposing to his partner, events director Javi Martinez.
The couple met at the Peninsula three years ago while Tim was hosting the Pen in Pink breast cancer awareness fundraiser. “Our mutual friend Anton San Diego introduced us. After the event, Javi had dinner with Vicky and Audrey Zubiri. Audrey called me to tell me that there’s this guy who super- likes me, so I told her to tell him to come over to the Pen where I was staying that weekend. So, Javi came and never left,” Tim relayed.
“The year after we met, Javi and I were already coproducing that same event. Javi was the event director while I was the host and auctioneer,” added Tim.
I was perhaps the first to know about the proposal when Tim called me to discuss it weeks ago. I encouraged Tim to propose because, having witnessed their partnership, I know that he and Javi bring out the best in each other. “Javi is an answered prayer. I prayed for a good human being to be my partner. And I told God that I will finally commit once I find him,” Tim shared.
So, on that special night, as Tim said thanks to his guests, he shifted gears: “When you have a good thing, you have to make it last forever.” He then called Javi onstage, went down on one knee and asked him to be his lifetime partner.
And as you may have heard, Javi said yes.
So perhaps the universe does conspire to give Tim his heart’s desires. But the real secret to Tim Yap’s success is that he gives so much of himself to everyone and everything around him. So much so that the Universe just pours it all back. ***
More # TYUniverse moments @applesaberin on Instagram and Twitter.