Talisay socials

The Tana Dikang ancestral home in Talisay City was all lit up that night. It was the week of the Chinese New Year and a beautiful live tree bedecked with Chinese lanterns was at the ground floor entrance.

Landscape artist Adjie Lizares was entertaining philanthropist Dee Zobel who jetted in for the Operation Smile, antique collector Mike Santos, film director Nonon Padilla, Menchu Jalandoni, Monsignor GG Gaston, party animal Joe Leonardia, real estate magnate Larry Lacson and plant enthusiast Chuck Tse. There was lechon and wine for appetizers in the main living room which looked like it was plucked out of a history book with all the antique furniture glistening in all its glory.

Dinner followed which was heralded with the opening of the large wooden doors leading to the formal dining room. The table was set with fine crystals from the 1920's to the 50's with heirloom silverware sparkling from the cathedral candelabras that loomed precariously over our heads. The social banter ranged from honorable causes to the latest showbiz gossip.

The Imperial Manille visitors were given a grand tour of the house after dessert. What a night! A couple of days later, grande dame Layette Rosello treated her Lacson relatives and friends to a sumptuous lunch at her Talisay seaside residence.

After mass at the Aniceto Lacson ancestral home, the group partook of typical Spanish cuisine with recipes dating back to the 1700's. Fashion Hall of Famer Celine Herras came with her whole family, holding her signature mini-umbrella to shade her porcelain skin from the midday sun.

Real estate tycoon Manny Lacson was dignified sitting on an heirloom chair from the ancestral home. Sophisticate Nena Rosello and brother Paquito entertained the younger Lacson clan in an al fresco setting in the garden with anecdotes of historical family gaffes which put everyone at ease. Definitely, this is how grand families gather at home…

MY PRAYER My Lord, keep my family safe from harm as I wander the world in search of Your Glory.*