Two of the country’s well-loved ladies-who-lunch, the ever gracious Mercy Tuason,  newly appointed Philippine Ambassador to Rome, and jet-setter Mely Hechanova, were feted with a joint despedida and a bienvenida respectively. Held recently at the Shang Palace of Makati Shangri-la, the charming hostesses were Dra. Elenita Binay, and Nene Leonor.

I happened to sit beside the demure Pitang Tiongson and we had a nice chat about health enhancing tips.  Stylish Roi Philipps on the other hand, was talking about her children abroad, from her recent U.S. trip. Conversation topics revolved mostly around everyone’s recent travel experiences.

Among the guests present were: Imelda Cojuangco, Dra. Loi Ejercito, Consul Helen Ong, Letty Syquia,  Ado Escudero,  Danny Dolor,  Rosita Lesaca, Thelma Gana, Ces Manalo, Ody Arroyo, Nena Casimiro, Fe Rodriguez, Consul Evie Costa, Nini Licaros, Chit Salud, Karen Macasaet, Brenda Reyes, Chit Dee, Donnie Ramirez, Virginia Lane, Pitang Tiongson, Roi Philipps, Tessie Perez Rubio, Stella Arrastia,  Marietta Santos, Resty Vergara, Cherry Pie Lazatin, Rory Eizmendi, and Allan Tengco.