A salute to mothers
“Motherhood : All love begins and ends there.” – Robert Browning
Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers, grandmothers, moms-to-be, and all in-between! Mother’s Day is a special occasion that honors a relentless force—a love that gives endlessly, selflessly, and unconditionally. A mother’s wisdom and kindness are pillars that shape the child’s soul and carries them throughout their life.
My mother, Marixi Prieto, is my perfect example of a working mom that has found the perfect work-life balance in a generation when most mothers are housewives. Her discipline and integrity are just some of her stellar traits that I wish to pass on to my kids.
Throughout my ordeals, Mamarixi has been the stabilizing force that steered me into the right path of moving forward. From the start of my painful separation, she has been so supportive in all aspects of my life. Even when I was in a traumatic relationship, she was so forgiving and waited for me to see the light!
As I continue to rebuild my new life five years later, I still seek her guidance and strength every day. I am so blessed to be part of a family that is so close and so supportive. It truly makes life easier, along with prayer and keeping faith in God.
A celebration of love
Just before leaving for the Gold Coast, Australia for a much-needed Mother’s Day vacation, I attended the wedding of Christina Cruz and Vernon Huibonhoa on the invitation of my good friend Consul Agnes Huibonhoa, who helped create such a romantic reception.
The union was celebrated in a gathering that transcended the idea of a wedding: It became the continuation of a love story nurtured with grace, loyalty, and devotion. Surrounded by family, friends, and an esteemed circle of dignitaries, the occasion reflected not only their bond but also the enduring values of tradition, community, and service.
The couple exchanged vows at the historic San Agustin Church, officiated by Papal Nuncio Archbishop Charles John Brown III. The reception at the National Museum of Natural History was a vision of elegance, with candlelit tents, sparkling chandeliers, and lush floral arrangements.
The evening carried the touch of Vernon’s mother, Consul Agnes Huibonhoa, whose distinguished presence ensured a celebration of refinement and meaning. As dean of the Consular Corps of the Philippines and long-standing chairman of the Consular Ball, she has long been a figure of leadership. Beyond her diplomatic roles, she serves as Hermana Mayor of Our Lady of Manaoag Church in Sampaloc, where for nearly two decades she has led charitable initiatives: medical missions, gift-giving, and community projects that uplift urban neighborhoods.
Lyster, Ukraine Ambassador Yuliia Fediv, Belgium Consul spouse Mme. Valerie Pompetti and Belgium Consul Fabio Pompetti
In addition to managing her businesses, Consul Huibonhoa continues to extend her compassion through medical missions in other places, supporting cancer foundations not only through donations but also by actively working with them to provide care and joining their outreach programs.
She likewise advances educational initiatives and champions arts and cultural projects in the Philippines. With a vision to bring these cultural endeavors abroad, she hopes to help promote the beauty and richness of the Philippines on the international stage. Her dedication to service infused the wedding with a spirit of generosity and grace.
Among the principal sponsors were First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, Ramon See Ang, Senator Loren Legarda, Secretary Sonny Angara, Alejandro Tengco, Carla Tengco, Captain Stanley Ng, Tessie Sy Coson, Enrico Uy Dee, Felix Ang, Sylvia Sy, Ambassador Francis, and Betty Chua Ang.
The distinguished guest list included business leaders, politicians, and members of the diplomatic community, making the celebration not only a union of two hearts but also a convergence of influence, tradition, and enduring love.
That’s not all
On the same evening was a special private screening of “The Devil Wears Prada 2,” hosted by My Closet Manager owner Genevieve Jimenez Yalung and daughter Geneve Yalung. They welcomed their closest clients and partners to enjoy the screening.
For the evening, her guests were styled in some of the showroom’s boldest, most directional pieces, echoing the iconic, high-impact fashion of the film while proving that style doesn’t have to come at the cost of sustainability.
Fashion has always held immense influence and power, as seen in the movie. At My Closet Manager, they are choosing to channel that power into something more meaningful—transforming it into purpose, responsibility, and advocacy for a more sustainable future in fashion.
As the first integrated sustainable fashion service in the industry, My Closet Manager offers a fully managed approach to your wardrobe: from climate-controlled closet storage and curated dress rentals to helping you earn from your clothes and seamlessly sell designer pieces. They make it possible to enjoy fashion at its best without the excess.
Genevieve has been working since she graduated from college, and her kids have seen her working practically their whole life. Since she was in the corporate world until she started her own business, it has always been her goal to strike a good “work and mom-life balance.” No matter how busy it gets, she always makes it a point to prioritize her kids over everything. She has handled so many tough roles and positions in various multinational companies, but establishing quality time and genuine connection with her kids are always non-negotiable.
In essence, being a working mom is a tough job; it is a balancing act, full of pressure and expectations, and not always successes. All moms know that there are happy moments as well as hard sacrifices, but that seeing our children grow up to be good people with their own dreams and ambitions makes it all worth it. There are always silver linings to be found, if you know where to look.
Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing mothers out there that give so much of themselves to their loved ones. You deserve all the love and blessings life has to offer!
