'A big bash for Primo'

A 75th birthday anniversary is indeed something very special. No wonder the children of popular DAILY STAR columnist, Primo Esleyer, decided to celebrate their Dad's natal day with a big bang. His daughter Bambi, called to ask me to attend the big celebration at L' Fisher Hotel and would I please say a few words about her Dad during the program?

Of course I said, "Yes, I'd be delighted". On the big night itself, I walked into L'Fisher Hotel lobby where Primo was with his group, the Sunshine Boys, everyone looking so dashing and handsome in their elegant barongs. After a few minutes of pleasantries, we all proceeded to the posh Ripples Function room where the rest of his family waited to welcome us.

Soon the place filled up with guests who were all greeted warmly by the celebrator.

The guest list included Primo's friends from the academe, business, politics, media, the movers and the shakers of Bacolod and even his relatives who came all the way from Igbaras, Iloilo, his hometown. It was a celebration in the truest sense of the word.

The sumptuous buffet was a delight. Sparkling red wine flowed endlessly while everyone enjoyed the superb dinner. Sounds of laughter could be heard across the room as the Sunshine boys recalled their adventures and misadventures during their recent unforgettable trip to China.

The highlight of the evening was an audio-visual presentation of the celebrator's life featuring a very slim Primo in his early years when he was a young man in Igbaras, to his days as the Dean of the College of Commerce of De La Salle College (now University). It showed his happy years with his beloved wife, the late Dr Fe Esleyer and their kids.

And what a life it has been! The success story shows how a superior intellect, hard work and sheer determination can make a person succeed.

Tributes were given by Primo's family who impressed the audience with their eloquence while his favorite apo 8-year-old Jason Brian Avelino, brought the house down with his endearing revelation about why he sleeps with his Lolo every night - because his room is airconditioned! Later, some of the guests gave their own tributes while the Sunshine boys performed a song for Primo.

Seeing how his dearest family and friends were all there for him, Primo's face lit up with a 10-megawatt smile! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, my good friend.*