By Tina Hidalgo Jacinto
People Asia‘s ‘People of the Year’ Awards Night, founded by legendary journalist Max V. Soliven, has been recognized as the country’s ultimate showcase that honors the Philippines’ best. Presented in cooperation with Sofitel Philippine Plaza, the event rounded up the who’s who of the country’s achievers for the 18th anniversary of People Asia Magazine. The common denominator of the awardees is their excellence in their chosen field, which greatly contributes to our culture, heritage, and progress. The event drew a high profile crowd, from the diplomatic, political, art, and social world. On hand to meet the guests were Ambassador Babe Romualdez and beauty and brains editor Joanne Rae Ramirez who dazzled in a couture gown by renowned couturier Ito Curata.
Upon entering, the eye-catching white Volvo parked at the ballroom’s entrance caught our attention. Cocktails were served while guests viewed the special features of the high tech, stylish sedan. Inside the ballroom, Cocoy Laurel sang his opening number, “People.” Stunning in an emerald green gown, seasoned host Issa Litton introduced Ambassador to Washington Babe Romualdez who welcomed the guests and said that he especially flew in to pay homage to the evening’s special awardee, former President Fidel V. Ramos. This year’s opener, FVR was awarded the Max V. Soliven Lifetime Achievement award for his pivotal role in history—the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution and for his active role as head of the Ramos Peace and Development Foundation among others.
An interesting note on this year’s event was the scene-stealing style of awardee Norman King, who was dressed in his ethnic costume as he went on stage to claim his award, as Resorts World Manila’s “Lucky Person of the Year.” He is the first member of the Aeta community to graduate from the University of the Philippines Manila. The “Airline of the Year” award went to Singapore Airlines, which recently celebrated its 70th anniversary.
There was a special performance by Basil Valdez who wowed the audience with the old time favorites, with live music by the Marcy David band. Ballroom decor was by Dave Sandoval. A grand raffle Singapore Airlines business class to Singapore was won by yours truly and hubby Rupert escorted me onstage to claim my prize. Everyone indulged in the delicious dinner buffet. Sponsors were: Volvo, Henann Group of Resorts, Aboitiz Equity Ventures, PLDT, Resorts World Manila, Sta. Elena Construction, The Philippine Star, San Miguel Corporation, Megaworld, Philippine Gaming and Amusement Corp. St Luke’s Medical Center, Marie France & Facial Care Center, W Group, and Penshoppe.
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