With the theme “Diplomats for a Cause,” the Spouses of Heads of Mission (SHOM) Manila organized a gala featuring a fashion show and a silent auction of artwork on Oct. 8, at the Grand Ballroom of the Marriott Hotel. The event was well attended by foreign ambassadors, heads of international institutions, other ranking diplomats, and their spouses.
Chairperson of ‘Diplomats for a Cause’ Indri Puspitasari Akyol, Alliance Global CEO and Megaworld Executive Director Kevin Tan, co-chairperson and Monaco Consul General Fortune Ledesma and Kultura’s Fatima Uy
The pieces showcased in the fashion show were provided by Kultura, SM Fashion, and SM Fashion Forum. SM has supported this charity gala with SHOM in previous years and continues to support the event because of its commitment to improving the lives of communities.
Norway Ambassador Christian Lyster, Turkiye Ambassador Evren Akyol, Papal Nuncio Most Rev. Charles Brown, Indonesian Ambassador Agus Widjojo and Max Lim, husband of Singapore Ambassador
Lee Eun Hua, wife of South Korean Ambassador, Romania Ambassador Raduta Matache, Marina Pfaffernoschke, wife of German Ambassador, Gila Fluss, wife of Israeli Ambassador, and Ranny Widjojo, wife of Indonesian Ambassador
(Standing from left) Robert Castaneda, Marieliese Evaristo, Jorge Hizon, Cocoy Cordova, Hazel Riguera, Jorge Hizon and Liza Quirolgico, (sitting from left) Marilyn Dingh, Frieda Hizon, Chavit Singson and Baby Ortiz
Victoria del Prado Carballo, Raquel Tioseco Sta. Ines, Marieliese Evaristo and Armita Bantug Rufino
Czezh Republic’s Michelle Hejcova, Netherlands Ambassador Marielle Garaedts, Maria Elena Urriste, wife of Argentinian Ambassador, Singaporean Ambassador Constance See, and Hungarian Ambassador Titanilla Tóth
Eric Tracz, husband of Hungary Ambassador, Japan Ambassador Kazuya Endo, Thailand Ambassador Tull Traisorat, Vietnam Ambassador Lai Thai Binh and Switzerland Ambassador Nicolas Brühl
Tessie Amparo, Chona Lopez, Hi Society, Fe Rodriquez, Chavit Singson, Rose Basa and Mildred Vitangcol
Diplomats for a Cause Chairman Indri Akyol of Turkiye, co-chair Monaco Consul General Fortune Ledesma, Susan Fries, wife of Swedish Ambassador, Denise Brühl, wife of Swiss Ambassador, and Akiko Endo, wife of Japanese Ambassador
The event was also an opportunity for SM to display the wealth of fashionable items it carries. Kultura highlighted the beauty of Filipino culture and the world-class craftsmanship of Filipinos with well-curated ensembles, jewelry, and accessories.
SM Fashion, a trailblazer in Philippine fashion trends, emphasized both contemporary and classic staples of versatility and innovation. SM Fashion, available at SM Store, offers ready-to-wear clothing, shoes, and accessories.
The Manila Times President and COO Blanca Mercado and Indri Akyol
Fashion Forum showcased vibrant and intricate designs, creating a delightful fusion of different cultures coming together.
For many years, SHOM has supported local beneficiaries, focusing on the betterment of disadvantaged, abused, and malnourished children and women, as well as people with disabilities across the Philippines.
This year’s “Diplomats for a Cause” was led by Chairperson Indri Akyol, spouse of the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkiye, and co-chairperson Ambassador Fortune Ledesma, Consul General of Monaco.
kkkMeanwhile, Marielese Evaristo marked her 80th birthday at Jasmine, New World Hotel, surrounded by close friends, family, and relatives, including her first cousin, Chavit Singson.
The milestone celebration was a heartwarming event, filled with love and admiration for a truly remarkable woman. Known as the “hostess with the mostess,” Marielese is renowned for organizing year-round parties, always bringing people together to celebrate life.
(Front row, from left) Lorraine Evaristo, granddaughter Allie Evaristo, birthday celebrant Marieliese Evaristo, Amie Evaristo, granddaughter Angel Evaristo and Carol Evaristo, (back row, from left) Frank, Jun Jun, Carlo, Arcee and Anton Evaristo
Her birthday celebration featured a sumptuous Chinese lauriat, enhanced by music from Marcy David, accompanied by a talented female vocalist and violinist, creating a joyful atmosphere. A highlight of the luncheon was when family and friends presented several beautifully decorated cakes. As everyone sang “Happy Birthday,” Marielese blew out the candles, receiving heartfelt applause and admiration from her guests.
At 80, she remains a vibrant and indomitable spirit, embodying resilience and a zest for life. Marielese continues to inspire others, living life to the fullest and embracing every opportunity. Her unwavering entrepreneurial spirit and determination serve as a reminder to all to never give up on their dreams.
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