Birthday bash by the sea

It was a memorable night of dancing, good music and friends as BREDCO president Sammy Palanca celebrated his 85th birthday at the new five-storey Bacolod Pavilion Hotel.

It was celebrated intimately with close friends and colleagues who jetted in from Manila and neighboring islands.

Former Bacolod Vice Mayor Renecito Novero and former Environment Secretary Mike Defensor were among those who greeted the celebrator through a song. As tango and cha-cha music filled the air, everyone danced and enjoyed the night away.

The surround-glass function room had a picturesque view of the now bustling Bredco Port. The celebration began with a birthday song specially composed for the man of the night, by Bagger Villaluz who came with his wife Cosette. Guests savored a wide array of sumptuous dinner selections, generously laid out in buffet tables.

Uncle Sam, as he is called by his friends, is one of our admirable Negrenses, and his charm is his legacy.  He is a man of vision, but despite of that, the “Old Man By the Sea” remains humble, refusing many times various recognitions by the Rotarians, Negros Press Club, and the “Ang Banwahanon Awards” for his contribution to Bacolod.

A salute to the Grand Old Man by the Sea!*