Porfirioness

Ribbon Cutting for the opening of Sandok: JR Santos, owner Thea Valdez, Lex Tupas (representing his wife Iloilo City Councilor Dr. Candice Tupas), Winston Santos, Eric Santos and owner Tammy Javelosa

Ribbon Cutting for the opening of Sandok: JR Santos, owner Thea Valdez, Lex Tupas (representing his wife Iloilo City Councilor Dr. Candice Tupas), Winston Santos, Eric Santos and owner Tammy Javelosa

Sandok, which prides itself for its home-cooked style comfort food, certainly did not disappoint the guests and gourmands who came to its Goodwill Day and Kitchen Pressure Test in preparation for its opening the following day.

Originally a brand from Bacolod city, it gave comfort food, such as KBL (kadios, baboy, langka), linaga, pochero, pork sinigang, manok sa ubad (organic chicken), laswa, pork sisig served with egg and cansi steak, the distinct Ilonggo flavour a universal appeal. The comfort food Sandok offers can be enjoyed in a “home away from home” concept. No frills, no fuss. Tasty and flavorful are understatements!

The interiors of Sandok

The quote by Julia Child on the wall says it all; and the interiors of Sandok

Coffee Jelly, Mango Delight and Leche Flan are some of the desserts on its menu. And from its Express Counter, one can avail of Premium Guinamos and Adobo Flakes in Oil. Suki Cards are up for grabs by regular customers!

At Sandok, which is an Ilonggo word for scoop, you will definitely get your spoonful of comfort food at reasonable prices!

It is located at Two Lorton building on Quezon Extension Street (across Robinsons Place Iloilo).

Jun Wei Su, Jamsen Cembrano and JR Santos

Lex Tupas and son Lextom

Arle and Bea Gorriceta with son Zachary Gorriceta, and Andrea V. Gorriceta with son Dakila

Jabby Valdez, Mark Javelosa, owners Thea Valdez and Tammy Javelosa, and Archie Tan

Jun Wei Su, Jamsen Cembrano and JR Santos; Lex Tupas and son Lextom;  Arle and Bea Gorriceta with son Zachary Gorriceta, and Andrea V. Gorriceta with son Dakila; and  Jabby Valdez, Mark Javelosa, owners Thea Valdez and Tammy Javelosa, and Archie Tan.

Sizzling Linaga

Sizzling Linaga

Cansi Steak

Cansi Steak

Pork Sisig Served with Egg

Pork Sisig Served with Egg

My personal favorite was Chicken Adobo Flakes. It was soooooo good!

My personal favorite was Chicken Adobo Flakes. It was soooooo good!

The celebrator Dr. Rollin Tabuena

The celebrator Dr. Rollin Tabuena; with his wife Dr. Daisy Tabuena toasting and cheering the good life and happy marriage; with their son Dane Marco; and in his signature dance moves.

Indeed, turning 50 is a milestone in one’s life and it calls for a celebration! Dr. ROLLIN TABUENA did just that! A successful physician who practices Internal Medicine and specializes in Pulmonology, he marked his Golden Year with a Gold and Black Hollywood Glam Party at Jaro Ballroom of Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo!

Colleagues, friends, relatives, professionals from the medical field, and employees were in full attendance. Rightfully so, they were in for a big treat. After a sumptuous dinner buffet, the celebrator and Sidlangan Dancers opened the action-packed program with a heart-pumping act. Then BEAM ALCORIN and GLAIZA GRECIA took turns in singing the celebrator’s favorite songs.

Yours truly receives the Most Glamorous Male Look award from couple Drs. Rollin and Daisy Tabuena; Most Glamorous Female Look awardee Ivy Benal-Borro; Bo Parcon, Dr. Rollin Tabuena and Pepoy Tancinco; and singers Beam Alcorin and Glaiza Grecia with Dr. Rollin Tabuena and son Dane Marco.

MARLON MALLO and JOE ADRIAN IBOJOS’ live song and dance number to IÑIGO PASCUAL’s Dahil Sa Iyo was followed by the production number of FRANCIS ZAPANTA, APRIL ZAPANTA, ANGELO, HENDRIX, CARMELO and Asclepsius Angels IVY BENAL BORRO, MARIA RONA MONTELIJAO, MILA GRACE LAMPAR, PAMELA MERIONES and HYACENT PEDROLA to Momoland’s BAAM!

The partying went into crescendo when Iloilo’s Bad Boy of Fashion BO PARCON and beauty expert PEPOY TANCINCO chose the most glamorous guests of the night: yours truly (Most Glamorous Male Look), IVY BENAL-BORRO (Most Glamorous Female Look), KURT MURILLA (Male Head Turner of the Night), MARIA RONA MONTELIJAO (Female Head Turner of the Night), RAINIER ABELARDE (Male Star of the Night), MARICAR GONZALES (Female head Turner of the Night), and JASSON DAQUILANIA (Grand Most Glamorous Male of the Night).

The Jaro Ballroom of Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo was transformed into a glamorous venue for Dr. Rollin Tabuena’s Gold and Black Hollywood Glam Party

The Jaro Ballroom of Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo was transformed into a glamorous venue for Dr. Rollin Tabuena’s Gold and Black Hollywood Glam Party; Marlon Mallo, Allen Reteracion, Dr. Rollin Tabuena, Angelo Tribunal, Eduardo Palomo and Carmelo Grecia with (seated) Maricar Gonzales, Michelle Minerva and Glaiza Grecia; and Pao and Donna Jaruda; and the opening number by Dr. Rollin Tabuena and the Sidlangan Dancers brought the house down.

The glamorous affair came to fruition because of the combined efforts of Event Organizer KATE LUCEÑO, wacky program hosts ALLEN CROSS RETERACION and ANGELO TRIBUNAL, PANOY GO who took charge of the lights and sounds, and JARRYD PALMARES who did the videoclips. Swacky provided the photobooth while Sabbie’s Bakeshop supplied the birthday cake! Wacky Productions designed the décor and stage, and DJ JELO livened up the party mood with his brand of music while Groomsmen documented the affair with their photos and videoclips.

Drs. Rollin and Daisy Tabuena with Gabriel Alejado, Pinky Alejado, Gina Alejado, Alexandria Pelayo and Junrey Pelayo

Drs. Rollin and Daisy Tabuena with Jasson Daquilania, Kaycee Alcalde-Buñalez, Andrea Alcalde, Lyra Villaruz-Reyes, Maria Victoria Salazar, Melanie Delfin and Miss Riza

Drs. Rollin and Daisy Tabuena with Jemar Nuevaorlanda, Nargel Lorilla and Rainier Abelarde

Drs. Rollin and Daisy Tabuena with Mayflor Lañada, Marissa Quimpo, Mercedita Otañes and Pastor Roger Quimpo

Drs. Rollin and Daisy Tabuena with Gabriel Alejado, Pinky Alejado, Gina Alejado, Alexandria Pelayo and Junrey Pelayo; with Jasson Daquilania, Kaycee Alcalde-Buñalez, Andrea Alcalde, Lyra Villaruz-Reyes, Maria Victoria Salazar, Melanie Delfin and Miss Riza; with Jemar Nuevaorlanda, Nargel Lorilla and Rainier Abelarde; and with Mayflor Lañada, Marissa Quimpo, Mercedita Otañes and Pastor Roger Quimpo

“Let’s create happy memories and surround ourselves with laughter and friendship as we celebrate this special occasion,” the celebrator summed his birthday bash. “Let’s enjoy the night!”

Dr. Rollin Tabuena with Asclepsius staff: Arael Borro, Maria Rona Montelijao, Ivy Benal-Borro, Maylyn Tiangson, Pamela Meriones, Mila Grace Lampar, Cheryl Japitana and Rita Servida

Dr. Rollin Tabuena with Marie Cris Lao, Joe Adrian Ibojos, Ocho Espinosa, Dance Marco Tabuena, Alyana Castaños, Dr. Lani Castaños, April Zapanta and Francis Zapanta

Dr. Rollin Tabuena with Dr. Matias Apistar, Terry Apistar, Dr. Rodelyn Alemaña, Dr. Dwanie Conlu, Dr. Lynette Raz, Dr. Celina Gellada, Nerissa Acanto, Jan Acanto, Dr. Mary Grace Hojilla and Jo-al Hojilla

Dr. Rollin Tabuena with Asclepsius staff: Arael Borro, Maria Rona Montelijao, Ivy Benal-Borro, Maylyn Tiangson, Pamela Meriones, Mila Grace Lampar, Cheryl Japitana and Rita Servida; with Marie Cris Lao, Joe Adrian Ibojos, Ocho Espinosa, Dance Marco Tabuena, Alyana Castaños, Dr. Lani Castaños, April Zapanta and Francis Zapanta; and with Dr. Matias Apistar, Terry Apistar, Dr. Rodelyn Alemaña, Dr. Dwanie Conlu, Dr. Lynette Raz, Dr. Celina Gellada, Nerissa Acanto, Jan Acanto, Dr. Mary Grace Hojilla and Jo-al Hojilla

A sneak preview of Tahum Pop Up Festival during its media launch at Jaro Ballroom of Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo. It is slated on Feb. 22 to 24 (Friday to Sunday) at Megaworld Iloilo Business Park Showroom.

A sneak preview of Tahum Pop Up Festival during its media launch at Jaro Ballroom of Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo. It is slated on Feb. 22 to 24 (Friday to Sunday) at Megaworld Iloilo Business Park Showroom.

American retail businesswoman and crafts guru MARTH STEWART once said,” Everywhere I go, I always look for creative entrepreneurs, whether it’s artisans and craftsmen, small farmers and gardeners, or restaurateurs who use fresh, locally sourced ingredients. I admire the courage and self-reliance it takes to start your own business and make it succeed.”

With this mind, the Assumption Iloilo Education Foundation (AIEF), headed by its President MARJORIE C. FLORETE, came up with Tahum, a pop up Festival, on Feb. 22 to 24 at Megaworld Iloilo Business Park Showroom. It also hosted a media launch cum merienda cena at Jaro Ballroom of Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo to drum up support and for its information drive.

AIEF President Marjorie Florete, Assumption Iloilo Principal Sister Aremar Grantos, R.A., Principal Sister Mary Joseph Concepcion, R.A. and Immediate Past President Dr. Ida Marquez-Lim Siason

Tahum Pop Up Festival Working Committee: Sheila Bermejo, Frances May Bedro, Jor-El Espina, Marjorie Florete and Rara Ganzon. Not in the picture is Gem Lacson-Din; and AIEF President Marjorie Florete, Assumption Iloilo Principal Sister Aremar Grantos, R.A., Principal Sister Mary Joseph Concepcion, R.A. and Immediate Past President Dr. Ida Marquez-Lim Siason

Tahum is a lifestyle pop up festival of artisan and Filipino crafts with Modern Filipino and Filipiniana themes for booths. It will feature food, fashion, jewelry, home, lifestyle and Assumpton Tahum finds.

A passion project, it is all about wearing, eating, supporting, loving and promoting local. It is the first and biggest curated all-Filipino pop up festival in Western Visayas. Open to the public, it will gather exhibitors from Cosmo-Manille, Cebu, Bacolod, Antique, Capiz and Iloilo!

Fashion designer JOR-EL ESPINA, a member of the Working Committee, enthused, “Tahum highlights the heart and artistry of the modern Filipino, and your support will also keep alive the weaving industry of the Indigenous People!” The festival aims to keep alive the creativity, talent and craftsmanship of our local artisans.

Arlette Deles-Ledesma, Yoly Marquez-Lim Altavas and Susan Caperonce-Florete

AIEF Secretary Lina Divinagracia and Lally Golez-Nava of Panaderia de Molo

Arlette Deles-Ledesma, Yoly Marquez-Lim Altavas and Susan Caperonce-Florete; and AIEF Secretary Lina Divinagracia and Lally Golez-Nava of Panaderia de Molo

According to jewelry designer MARJORIE FLORETE, “Tahum is a showcase of Filipino products with global appeal, products that are relevant in the modern time, products that can be worn and used with pride, and products that go beyond the traditional gift or pasalubong!”

“All proceeds from Tahum will go to Assumption Iloilo Education Foundation’s Gifts that give bACK campaign,” she said. “This will fund deserving scholars the gift of Assumption education.”

Proceeds will also go towards the improvement of school facilities and faculty development.

Assumption Iloilo Principal Sister Aremar Grantos, R.A. with AIEF members of the Board of Trustees Feliza Espinosa-Uy and Atty. Mie Mie Lao

Exhibitors Reggie and Jennifer Benliro of Pinacrafts of Capiz

Assumption Iloilo Principal Sister Aremar Grantos, R.A. with AIEF members of the Board of Trustees Feliza Espinosa-Uy and Atty. Mie Mie Lao; and exhibitors Reggie and Jennifer Benliro of Pinacrafts of Capiz

Max de los Reyes, Calinog Mayor Alex and Jennifer Centina and Rex Victor Gardose

Norma P. Rosales, Elena Javellana, Sarah O. Peña, Susan Reyes and Girlie Ganzon; Pane Rosales, Angel Gómez and Pangging Rosales; Max de los Reyes, Calinog Mayor Alex and Jennifer Centina and Rex Victor Gardose; and Jane Uy, Irma Lim, Frankie Lim, Patricia Lim, Sheila Draper, Nikko Cid and Pangging Rosales

Iloilo’s Bad Boy of Fashion BO PARCON and yours truly braved a horrendous traffic from here, there and everywhere (it took us what normally is a 20 minute trip one hour and half to negotiate)  to attend the annual Dinagyang fiesta dinner at the Strawberry Mansion. It was hosted by the lady of the house NORMA PADILLA-ROSALES!

Dr. Pacita T. Gonzalez and Marilou Buscar; Robert Uy and Dr. Marigold T. Gonzalez; Chona Bondoc, Pinky Rojo, Marilen Salazar and Maribel Haley; and Ann Darocca, Norma P. Rosales, Gila Oquendo and Mildred Guerra, a Director at the Crawford & Company

Our frustration over the traffic was dashed when we saw our friends – some of Iloilo’s most veritable partyphiles and namedroppables in politics, society, business and profession. The party set up was from the dining room to the spacious living to the driveway of the Art Deco mansion. Dinagyang tribal costumes, headdresses, spears and shields as decors added to the festive mood!
The sumptuous dishes prepared by caterer to the rich and famous DING MONTELIBANO and overflowing beveragic delights whetted our zest for an all night partying. We grooved to retro music!

Jack Matti and yours truly

Rica Peña, Judgee Peña, Dr. Risa Peña and Dr. Red Sarabia; Dr. Pacita T. Gonzalez and former Rep. Jeffrey Ferrer of the 4^th District of Negros Occidental; Jerry and Rinzel Sy; and Jack Matti and yours truly

As if not enough, the gorgeous sisters BEVERLY “Pangging” ROSALES and JOJI “Pane” ROSALES with dance master ANGEL GÓMEZ delight everyone with passionate flamenco numbers. Choreographer JOE DELINA also performed jazz numbers with the ROSALES sisters!
Indeed, it a festive night full of fun and surprises!

Jasmine Castelo, Ian Rosales Kinnes and Nanette Kinnes-Stamper

Jasmine Castelo, Ian Rosales Kinnes and Nanette Kinnes-Stamper; Prima and Alan Sweeney; Jeff Hill and Max de los Reyes; and Bo Parcon and Rex Victor Gardose

Sheila Draper, Michelle Locsin, Soccoro Locsin, Jasmine Castelo and Joe Delina with (seated) Jaqui Tinsay, Teresa Hallegado, Peach Barrera, Baby del Rosario, Marilen Salazar, Eva Legayada, Cherrie Simonio and Fr. Dennis Batacandolo

Romy and Chona Bondoc, Pinky Rojo, Maribel Haley, Jonathan Haley, Vic Paul Guevara and Micahel Hoque

Sheila Draper, Michelle Locsin, Soccoro Locsin, Jasmine Castelo and Joe Delina with (seated) Jaqui Tinsay, Teresa Hallegado, Peach Barrera, Baby del Rosario, Marilen Salazar, Eva Legayada, Cherrie Simonio and Fr. Dennis Batacandolo; and Romy and Chona Bondoc, Pinky Rojo, Maribel Haley, Jonathan Haley, Vic Paul Guevara and Micahel Hoque   

Iloilo City Councilor R Leone N. Gerochi, supermodel Ria Bolivar and owner Julie Uy snip the ribbon for the opening of Zensuals Beauty and Nail Lounge

Few moons ago, Zensuals Beauty and Nail Lounge opened at the 2nd floor of Festive Walk Mall! Its owner JULIE UY and image model and brand ambassador, supermodel RIA BOLIVAR, a true-blood Ilongga, welcomed the guests from fashion, media and politics.

Dimples de la Cruz, Ria Bolivar and Sarah Jaleco

Best friends Melda Angelica Alejano-Gerochi, Julie Uy and Sharon Joy Estocapio; and Dimples de la Cruz, Ria Bolivar and Sarah Jaleco

Iloilo City Councilor, lawyer R LEONE N. GEROCHI, led the special guests in the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Naturellement, everyone enjoyed on a spread of sumptuous hors d’oeuvres from Ma’am Nors.

Couple Prima and Alan Sweeney

Tiffany Berjes of Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo and Zensuals Beauty and Nail Lounge owner Julie Uy

Couple Prima and Alan Sweeney; and Tiffany Berjes of Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo and Zensuals Beauty and Nail Lounge owner Julie Uy

A portmanteau of Zen and Sensuals, Zensuals Beauty and Nail Lounge offers a meditative state of mind with the gratification of the senses. Its menu of service includes total body pampering for men and women!

Sisters Mary May and JM Tiongco; and Marlon Mallo and Joe Adrian Iduhos

Yours truly and Bo Parcon; and with Mandy Manderico and Noel Mirasol

Yumminess from Ma’am Nors

Yumminess from Ma’am Nors

Outlet Chef Carlos T. Lanzona

Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day and The Mansion is celebrating it with a dinner buffet at The Lobby Café!

Yes, Outlet Chef CARLOS T. LANZONA gave us preview of the dishes he will prepare. He is whipping up a sumptuous array of Italian, Oriental and Southern dishes! The menu includes Salad, Soup, Carvery, Main Courses, Dessert and Live Ravioli (Beetroot and Pumpkin Ravioli will be prepared before you). For P799 net, one can enjoy the Valentine’s Dinner. And for an additional of P400, one can have an unlimited drink option of soda, juices, wine and beer!

Orange and Mustard Glazed Pork Chops

Chef CALOY, as he is fondly called, wanted to be a rock star. Just like any other youth in his days, he was bullied. Not the scholarly type, he rebelled. According to him, he grew up as one of the kids one wouldn’t really expect to amount to anything. “I refused to pursue college thinking I didn’t want to end up wasting my parents’ money,” he said. “I developed a very low self-esteem.”

The turning point in his life was ANTHONY BOURDAIN’s Kitchen Confidentials, a book he came across in a rummage book sale. It is gruelling cautionary tale about ins and outs of the culinary industry. “Instead of being put off by the intricate world of cooking, I began to romanticize the sub-culture of the “line cook” and decided then and there that it was my calling,” he enthused.

Beetroot and Cashew Paste Ravioli sautéed in Herb Butter

“If I couldn’t make it as a local icon with a band, I would do it in the kitchen teaching and learning, like ANTHONY BOURDAIN would,” Chef CALOY reminisces. As fate would have it, he enrolled a year later at the Magsaysay Institute of Hospitality and Culinary Arts, Inc. (MIHCAI). He earned a degree in Professional Culinary Arts. And the rest is history.

From a trainee chef at MIHCAI, he took an on-the-job training at Midas Hotel and Casino. He was a kitchen helper at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel before becoming a Commis I at Holiday Inn Suites Makati, Commis III at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel, Commis I at Novotel Manila Araneta Center, and Commis I at Grand Hyatt Manila.

Pumpkin and Ricotta Ravioli

As an Outlet Chef at The Mansion, Chef CALOY is responsible for managing the activities and processes, procedures and training of cooks and other kitchen workers engaged in preparing and cooking for the hotel outlets. It is to ensure a quality, efficient and effective food service and product. “This is The Mansion promise to bring in world-class experience to the people of Iloilo and its varied clients,” Public Relations Specialist NONOI YBIERNAS echoed the hotel’s mission and vision.

For inquiries and reservations, please call (033) 335-1021 or (033) 337-8460.

The Menu for Valentine’s Dinner at The Mansion

Chef Arnie Pineda

Chef Arnie Pineda

New, great and many things are introduced and happening at The Mansion Iloilo Philippines. One of them is the new Executive Chef who is responsible for the big change in food — flavour, presentation, choices and all — at the Hotel from breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets to merienda cena, and ala carte dishes!

He is ARNIE G. PINEDA. A success story, he discovered his passion for the culinary arts at eight years old when forced to cook for his family while his parents were out to toil the fields. The eldest of five children, his parents were farmers in Pampanga. He took the initiative to provide whatever he can find in their backyard for his hungry siblings. Oh, well, his dishes turned out to be delectable. “By the time I turned fourteen, I knew that I was destined to become a chef,” he said. He then immersed himself in world of food.

The Lobby Lounge of The Mansion

The Lobby Lounge of The Mansion

He honed his culinary skills when he first got a job at age 17 as a comis (line cook). He slowly worked his way up the rank inside the kitchen and became a Chef de Partie at 20 years old. He then travelled seven countries, worked in nine hotels and a number of restaurants, and learned from renowned chefs in the industry. He most notable experiences were with Chef WOLFGANG FISCHER (five years) at Emirates Palace Hotel, then the only six-star hotel in the Middle East; at Constance Lemuria Luxury Resort in Seychelles; at Biella Pizzaria Ristorante in Qatar; and at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore.

Chef Arnie Pineda and his “kitchen warriors” Carlos, Outlets Chef; Erick, Banquet Chef; Mark Anthony, Head Butcher; and Rustom, Chef de Partie

Chef Arnie Pineda and his “kitchen warriors” Carlos, Outlets Chef; Erick, Banquet Chef; Mark Anthony, Head Butcher; and Rustom, Chef de Partie

When he returned from abroad, he pre-opened 5-star hotels in Cosmo-Manille; among them were Solaire, City of Dreams, Novotel Manila Araneta Center and Grand Hyatt Manila in Bonifacio Global City.

He also had the opportunity to work alongside Chefs SASHA GAULLSMANN, JACQUES LEDU and JEAN-LUC GRABOWSKI.

Chef ARNIE won accolades for his talents. He was a runner up at Gourmet Abu Dhabi 2012. As a Demi Chef de Partie in 2004 in Qatar’s Biella Pizzaria Ristorante, and as Junior Sous Chef in 2012 in Emirates Palace Hotel, he was a consistent Employee of Month. He is ISO 2000, ServSafe and HACCP Certified!

Breakfast at The Mansion: Stirr-fried Vegetables, Sotanghon Guisado, Schublig Sausages with roasted tomatoes and potato wedges, and Scrambled Eggs

Breakfast at The Mansion: Stirr-fried Vegetables, Sotanghon Guisado, Schublig Sausages with roasted tomatoes and potato wedges, and Scrambled Eggs

He takes working at The Mansion Iloilo Philippines as a challenge and a mission. With his “kitchen warriors” who he took from Cosmo-Manille, he tasks himself to change the perception of the Ilonggos on enjoying good food in an ambient mood. MSG is a big NO for him. “Flavoring is made from scratch and is a slow process because there are no shortcuts in preparing good food,” he enthused. He grows his own herbs in the backyard of the Hotel (it reminded him of childhood days) and is keen on having more offerings of dishes with free-ranged and organic ingredients.

His mission is to bring world-class dining experience in keeping with the hotel’s motto of “gracious experience in a landmark destination.” #yourgraciousexperience (Photos by Ray Tabafunda)

Breakfast at The Mansion: Crispy Fried Dilis with vinegar dip, Bistek Tagalog, Fried Chicken, and Chicken in Sauce Supreme with Mushroom

Breakfast at The Mansion: Crispy Fried Dilis with vinegar dip, Bistek Tagalog, Fried Chicken, and Chicken in Sauce Supreme with Mushroom

Breakfast at The Mansion: Chinese Ham, Sweet and Sour Fish Fillet, Congee Station, and Bread, Butter and Jam

Breakfast at The Mansion: Chinese Ham, Sweet and Sour Fish Fillet, Congee Station, and Bread, Butter and Jam

Merienda Cena at The Mansion: Bocadillos with French baguettes, Spanish slow roasted pork loin, Serrano ham, and liver bocadillos station

Merienda Cena at The Mansion: Bocadillos with French baguettes, Spanish slow roasted pork loin, Serrano ham, and liver bocadillos station

Merienda Cena at The Mansion: Suman, leche flan with caramel sauce, paella de mariscos, and Bibingka and Ube Jalaya

Merienda Cena at The Mansion: ingredients for Halo-Halo

Porchetta

Porchetta and Chocolate Cake

About The Mansion

The Mansion Iloilo is one of the most prominent landmarks in Iloilo City – one of the Philippines’ fast-emerging destinations for commerce and tourism. Featuring a unique blend of Chinese, Spanish and Filipinos heritage and architecture, this iconic hotel officers travellers a gracious experience in a landmark destination.

The Mansion offers guests a sentimental charm and a calm respite from the city’s rapidly developing business and entertainment districts. The hotel provides a total of 91 psacious rooms and suites located in its Corporate Building, 3 restaurants namely The Lobby, Pool club and Freddie’s Kitchen + Bar, a banquet and events convention center that can accommodate over 1,000 people, a full service salon, and an outdoor swimming pool – all within the 1.5 hectare property nestled at the heart of the Iloilo City Proper.

The Mansion Iloilo is also just a short drive away from historical sites like the Jjaro Metropolitan Cathedral, Molo Mansion, and Calle Real; Iloilo business centers, malls and entertainment complex. Also accessible are ferries to Guimaras, Palawan, Bacolod, CDO, and Cebu; and just 45 minutes away, the Iloilo International Airport offers domestic and direct international flights to Hong Kong and Singapore.

Alex Roleda, Kalene Roleda, Mayor Joe Espinosa III of Iloilo, Spencer Yu and Alexander Roleda snip the ribbon to open BMW Iloilo Store.

BMW Iloilo Pop-up store formally opened at Festive Walk Mall Annex with Metro-Iloilo most veritable movers, shakers, achievers and influencers in full attendance. Of course, everyone enjoyed the yumminess provided by Chef WILSON ESPARANCILLA! The spread included Mimosa, Cold Cuts and Anti-Pasti, Gravlax, Shrimp Cocktails, Canapés, Tapas Bar (beef salpicao, mushroom ajillo, almejas al ajillo and potato croquettes), and Assorted Cheeses! The victuals were complemented by fine wines!

Luis Yu Jr., Roselyn Roleda and Nell Locsin; Spencer Yu, Alexander Roleda and RCBC Savings Bank Auto Loans Head Mr. Conrado Alunan; Katrina Loring and JR Bondoc; and JR Santos with son Gavin Santos

Workasonic Mayor JOE ESPINOSA III of Iloilo City led the Autobahn BMW executives — SMC Asia Cars Distributors Corp. President SPENCER YU, General Manager KALENE ROLEDA, and franchise owners ALEXANDER ROLEDA and ALEX ROLEDA — in the ribbon cutting ceremony!

In his welcome message, SPENCER YU said, “Driving pleasure is around the corner!” BMW is a German brand that manufactures automobiles, motorcycles and engines!

Anja Rivera and Ruffy Palabrica

Nico Ivan Acebedo Velasquez and Tiffany Berjes of Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo

Ivy Longno-Gurrea, Sheilla Marie Golez-Tiongco and Conchitina Javellana-Ita-as

Anja Rivera and Ruffy Palabrica; Nico Ivan Acebedo Velasquez and Tiffany Berjes of Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo; Irman Ita-as, Jessie Garcia, Gilly Dulalia and Dr. Nap Tiongco Jr.; and Ivy Longno-Gurrea, Sheilla Marie Golez-Tiongco and Conchitina Javellana-Ita-as 

JR Bondoc, Chinky Bondoc-Rolida, Reina Javellana, Tata Loring and Christine Rojo-Yap

Atty. Hector J. Dias, Alexander Roleda and Jessie Garcia

JR Bondoc, Chinky Bondoc-Rolida, Reina Javellana, Tata Loring and Christine Rojo-Yap; and Atty. Hector J. Diaz, Alexander Roleda and Jessie Garcia

BMW cars and motorcycles

Calinog Fiesta Queen 2019 Niña Thadea B. Centena with King Consort Alexander D. Centena and her parents Mayor Alex and Jennifer Centena

Calinog Fiesta Queen 2019 Niña Thadea B. Centena with King Consort Alexander D. Centena and her parents Mayor Alex and Jennifer Centena

Calinog, approximately 60 kilometers from Metro-Iloilo, was in festive mood when it crowned its Fiesta Queen 2018 NIÑA THADEA BARRANCO CENTENA in a glittering Sapnish-themed pageantry at the town’s Plaza Mayor! The Queen is the unica hija of Mayor ALEX CENTENA and his first and only lady JENNIFER BARRANCO-CENTENA. Her King-Consort was her cousin ALEXANDER de los SANTOS CENTENA, the son of couple NOEL and TRACY ANN CENTENA (née de los SANTOS).

The Royal Court was made up of 1^st Princess MONICA VIVIENNE GIGANTO CENTENA and Prince VINCE RUSSEL GIGANTO CENTENA, and 2^nd Princess RACHEL CENTENA JOVER and Prince TRISTAN de los SANTOS CENTENA.

1st Princess Monica Vivienne G. Centena and Prince Vince Russel G. Centena

Calinog Fiesta Queen 2019 Niña Thadea B. Centena and King Consort Alexander D. Centena

1^st Princess Monica Vivienne G. Centena and Prince Vince Russel G. Centena; 2^nd Princess Rachel C. Jover and Prince Tristan D. Centena; and Calinog Fiesta Queen 2019 Niña Thadea B. Centena and King Consort Alexander D. Centena

Seen on the scene were the movers, shakers, achievers and influencers in politics, society and business of Iloilo. Among them were action star CESAR MONTANO, Rep. ARTHUR DEFENSOR Jr. of the 3^rd District of Iloilo, Board Member LORENZ DEFENSOR of the 3^rd District of Iloilo, Mayor JASON GONZALES of Lambunao, Mayor JOSÉ LAM de PAULA of Janiuay, Mayor MAR MALONES of Maasin, Vice Mayor MATT PALABRICA of Bingawan, businesswoman Dr. PACITA TRINIDAD-GONZALEZ, best dressed women NORMA PADILLA-ROSALES and SARAH OPOLENCIA-PEÑA, and sugar baron JUDGEE LOPEZ PEÑA.

Rex Victor Gardose with Aida Barrranco, Calinog First Lady Jennifer Barranco-Centena and Vanessa Palmares

Businessman Peter Po, Mayor Alex Centena of Calinog and Mayor José Lam de Paula of Janiuay; Board Member Lorenz Defensor of the 3^rd District of Iloilo, Mayor Jason Gonzales of Lambunao and Vice Mayor Matt Palabrica of Bingawan; Mayor Mar Malones of Maasin, Rep. Arthur Defensor Jr. of the 3^rd District of Iloilo and José “Jocas” B. Castigador of Partido ng Bayan ang Bida Partylist; and Rex Victor Gardose with Aida Barrranco, Calinog First Lady Jennifer Barranco-Centena and Vanessa Palmares

The celebration went into crescendo when gorgeous sisters BEVERLY and JOJI ROSALES along with maestro ANGEL GÓMEZ gave a medley of passionate flamenco numbers!

Calinog’s pride and one of Iloilo’s top couturiers HECTOR “Totong” GELLANGARIN was the Official Designer of the royal court! (Photos by Ray Tabafunda)

Judgee Lopez Peña, Dr. Marigold T. Gonzalez, and couple Alan and Prima Sweeney

Rex Victor Gardose and Nancy Tomulto, Director General of Kapistahan 2018

Yours truly with action star Cesar Montano

Dr. Pacita T. Gonzalez, Norma P. Rosales and Sarah O. Peña

Judgee Lopez Peña, Dr. Marigold T. Gonzalez, and couple Alan and Prima Sweeney; Rex Victor Gardose and Nancy Tomulto, Director General of Kapistahan 2018; yours truly with action star Cesar Montano; and Dr. Pacita T. Gonzalez, Norma P. Rosales and Sarah O. Peña

Beverly and Joji Rosales perform a passionate flamenco number

Maestro Angel Gómez

Beverly and Joji Rosales perform a passionate flamenco number; and maestro Angel Gómez

The Royal Court and the VIP guests

The sculptor Gines Serran-Pagan stand before his masterpiece, the Gen. Martin T. Delgado statue; and Gen. Martin T. Delgado (Filipinas Heritage Library)

With Iloilo City’s rich history present in every corner in mind, Megaworld formally unveiled the Gen. MARTIN T. DELGADO statue in Iloilo Business Park!
The hard-to-miss sculpture of one of the greatest Spanish-American war era Visayan “revolucionarios” is a masterpiece of Spanish sculptor GINES SERRAN-PAGAN, who is one of the world’s most renowned international contemporary artists.
The unveiling was in time for the Iloilo Dinagyang Festival 2019. It also served “as a celebration of Delgado’s legacy and rich history of Iloilo.”
The 8.8-meter bronze statue, which has become nothing short of a landmark in Iloilo City, stands proudly as a tribute to Ilonggo hero’s historic feat.

“The statue was first made in clay, then fiber glass, and eventually casted into bronze,” the artist explained. While the overall design and preparation of the massive artpiece took more than three years to be completed, it took almost a month for it to arrive in the Philippines from China were it was created. The bronze sculpture has a durability of a thousand years.

Jennifer Palmares-Fong, VP for sales and marketing, Iloilo Business Park; Atty. Helen J. Catalbas, DOT VI Regional Director; Gines Serran-Pagan, the renowned Spanish sculptor behind the monument and members of the Delgado family- Martin Lucio Delgado and Monsignor Jomarie Delgado, grandsons of General Martin Delgado; and Czarina Galano Director of Sales, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo; Nat Lim, Hotel Manager, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo; Paco Serrano-Pagan; Jennifer Fong, VP for Sales & Marketing, Megaworld Iloilo Business Park; Harold Geronimo, SAVP & Head of Public Relations and Media Affairs, Megaworld; Señora Serrano-Pagan

According to the artist, Gen. MARTIN T. DELGADO deserved this honor for having sacrificed his life for Iloilo. “His legacy will be an inspiration to future generations. My gratitude to his family, the people of Iloilo and to Dr. ANDREW L. TAN and his company Megaworld for giving me the opportunity to create this monument and commemorate the famous son and hero of Iloilo,” he shares.

GINES SERRAN-PAGAN was born in Ceuta, Spain where he had devoted his life in developing communities by combining art, anthropology, history and culture. He was recently feted the Lorenzo de Medici Medal of Arts in Miami, Florida, USA for his “valuable contribution to arts in the world.” It was presented to him by no less than Prince LORENZO de MEDICI, the direct descendant of Renaissance sponsor of Arts.

Horse-mounted Dinagyang tribe warriors before the statue of Gen. Martin T. Delgado

The hors d’oeuvres at the cocktails that followed the unveiling

Horse-mounted Dinagyang tribe warriors before the statue of Gen. Martin T. Delgado; and the hors d’oeuvres at the cocktails that followed the unveiling

The already multi-awarded Iloilo Business Park (IBP) was recently named Philippines Best Township Development by the prestigious Philippine Property Awards for highlighting the importance of art in furthering the development of communities. The 72-hectare Megaworld township, where urban architecture perfectly blends with art, history and culture, becomes the hub where art enthusiasts discover more about their craft at the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA). The museum is the latest addition to IBP. It has become the sanctuary where Ilonggos and tourists can “feed their love for art with various painting and sculpture from local, national and international artists.”