Club Bulakeño recreates the Royal Ascot
Club Bulakeño is a socio-civic club that has outlived other provincial associations. Composed mostly of Manila- based Bulakenos, it was founded by engineer Gene and Lydia Reyes, with the steadfast support of Ama ng Bulacan Ambassador Bienvenido Tantoco Sr. This year’s heads are presidents Atty. Jimmy Buhain and Milo Bondoc.
Each year, a theme is picked out by the presidents for its fundraising ball. This year’s theme, the “Royal Ascot” is a throwback during the days of Eliza Doolittle. Ladies were decked in black and white gowns and fancy hats. Men came in their tuxedoes, top hats and canes, giving the ballroom an English feel.
Master of ceremonies was Johnny Litton, who amused the audience with his usual wit and eloquence.
The program started with the awarding of outstanding Bulakeños, Atty. Henry Villarica (public service) and Milagros Imson (entrepreneurship).
The club muse, Nica Ponce- Quiazon, daughter of Dr. Orlando and GynGyn Ponce-Quiazon, was presented along with her escort Drei Buhain, Jimmy Buhain’s grandson. The muse was crowned by Nedy Tantoco of Rustan’s Corporation and former Ambassador of Spain to the Philippines Ignacio Sagaz.
Next came a parade of ladies in their costumes: Rep. Linabelle Villarica, Eimee Cragun, Consul Helen Ong, Baby de Jesus, Baby Ortiz, JC Maloles, Vivian Yano, Shelley Lazaro, Jemellie Gonzales, Alana Montelibano, Manolyn Taylor, Buena Sarmiento. Joel Cruz of Aficionado fame was the showstopper with his dramatic long- train cape.
Song and dance numbers from capped the evening.