Brighter days
“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” –J.R.R. Tolkien
Each part of our earthly journey has shaped us into the person we are today. Every fragment of our story—the heartbreak that hit us badly, the grief that seems to linger, and the challenges that strengthened our core—adds color and depth to our existence. With my ongoing legal cases due to my traumatic past, I have been resilient and focused on clearing all issues and praying for justice to prevail.
As I continue my new chapter with enjoyable activities and adventures, I realize that I already have all I need in my repurposed life. This includes my family, my golf world, and my charities.
Last month, I attended an event that covered all three aspects. On the invitation of my Zumba and golf BFF Elena Coyiuto, Malu Gamboa-Lindo, and Jaime de Leon of Leon Gallery, I joined a special lunch for Maribel Ongpin at Élan by the Bay, the newest events place in Manila.
Conceptualized by renowned Filipino architect Ed Calma, Élan exudes understated elegance with a coastal soul. With Manila Bay as its front yard, Élan is gifted with a cinematic scene that elevates any occasion.
The Ground Floor Main Hall was used for the gathering of 80 of Maribel’s set of eclectic friends from the arts, to the development world, to business. The sumptuous buffet spread that Chef Jessie catered was located at the open kitchen and indoor lanai area.
After lunch, my mother, Marixi Prieto paid tribute to her golfmate for the last 10 years or so. They play at least twice a week at 6:30 a.m. and Tita Maribel walks the course. She still competes and, in fact, won her class club championship last year. The Manila Golf Ladies Chapter is so grateful that she has served as president of the Chapter for several years.
My mother also shared that Tita Maribel has the strength of character and is committed to creating change, particularly for women and the disadvantaged. She is also active with HABI, a livelihood program that supports local weavers. My sister-in-law, Myda Prieto, is also part of this group that is helping keep the weaving industry alive.
After the short program that included an impromptu musical number by designer Rajo Laurel and golfmate Ana Santos, Elena had the in-house events team tour the guests upstairs and the rest of the beautiful grounds. The team works closely with clients from initial consultation to the final toast. For inquiries, please check out their Instagram @elanbythebay for details.
Aside from playing golf, I have been busy with preparations for the Red Charity Gala. Featuring the outstanding designs of Rhett Eala, RCG will be held at The Peninsula Manila on October 4. My RCG partner Kaye Tinga and I flew to Cebu last week to attend the Philippine Terno Gala 2025 and show our support to our past designer Cary Santiago.
It was a night of elegance and cultural celebration. The Waterfront Hotel and Casino in Cebu City hosted the prestigious Philippine Terno Gala 2025. This spectacular event, a testament to Filipino artistry and cultural heritage, was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Diagold, the Cebu City Tourism Commission, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Dr. CRB, ALI Agri Exim Corporation, and Bench.
The evening was a breathtaking display of meticulously crafted ternos, showcasing the talent of renowned Filipino designers Edwin Ao, Protacio, Jun Escario, Joey Samson, Jojie Lloren, and Cary Santiago. Each garment was a unique masterpiece, reflecting the rich tapestry of Filipino design traditions.
The Gala’s success was further amplified by the invaluable contributions of several individuals. Special thanks are extended to Mariquita Yeung, Jennifer Viloria, Alice Eduardo, Bea Zobel de Ayala Jr., Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo, Yedda Romualdez, Katrina Ponce Enrile, Marylou Ngo Ang, Maybelle Padillo, Jessie Maloles, Mags Cue, Delimindo, Bawbawun Resort Plaridel, and Catalina Cars and Rentals for their unwavering support.
Under the expert direction of Junjet Primor, the event unfolded seamlessly, culminating in a truly memorable evening. As a personal highlight, I was crowned “Bituin ng Gabi” by Diagold, a fitting tribute to my contributions to Philippine fashion and culture. I was just delighted to attend wearing a terno by Rhett Eala and a floral headpiece by Flower Luxe Cebu.
Diagold’s Jennifer Que Viloria has committed to supporting RCG as well as our dear friends from Cebu. We also have on board Globe, A2A Safaris, Omega, USANA, Emirates, Vision Express, Uratex, and many more.
The Philippine Terno Gala 2025 was more than just a fashion show; it was a celebration of Filipino identity, artistry, and the enduring power of tradition.
This year, Cold Storage Seafood will be supporting RCG. While Father’s Day may be over, Cold Storage continues to honor not just the men who provide, but also those who lead with quiet strength and lasting values.
For company president Marco Qua, it’s deeply personal, especially after his father, Mariano Qua, handed him the torch. For San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora, fatherhood and public service are one and the same. Even during the election season, he flew to New York for his daughter’s graduation and returned in time for his youngest’s moving-up ceremony. His wife, a breast cancer survivor, founded the Caring Keri Foundation—a reflection of their shared values.
Ernie Lopez, President of Creative Programs Inc. of ABS-CBN, understands how quickly children grow. Though they now live abroad, the bond they built through years of shared adventures remains strong.
For Benedicto Coyiuto, head of Audi and Bentley for PGA Cars, the most important part of fatherhood is simply being there, even with a demanding schedule. For Morris Qua, vice president of Cold Storage Seafood, the connection between family and business is not just symbolic—it’s foundational.
I am officially with Globe as the Globe of Good Ambassador. I am excited to work with the team for RCG and their Gastronome Giving series, where chosen restaurants curate Globe menus for a cause.
