Living with purpose
“Love never says: I have done enough.” —St. Marie Eugenie of Jesus
Living more fully conscious of my purpose here on earth, I am reminded to open my mind and heart to the calling of the divine, help without hesitation and share with joy and perseverance. Looking back on my earlier years, my long-lasting values and beliefs must have been shaped by my Assumption high school education.
On the Feast of the Assumption of Mary on Aug. 15, the generous donors of Assumption Forever were honored at a small yet solemn celebration that began with holy mass. Since my mother, Marixi Rufino-Prieto, was attending another charity project at Sisters of Mary, I received the token of appreciation on her behalf.
At the donor appreciation gathering, Sen. Loren Legarda was also honored for her generous donation. The other honorees were UT Foundation, LRP Foundation, Corinthian Commercial Corp., Just B–Bianca Montenegro Scholars and many more. A beautiful artwork by Assumption alumna Katelyn Miñoso was presented to each donor.
Over delicious Assumption tarts, we listened to the message of gratitude by Sandy Solocio, 2024 Mother Esperanza Maria awardee, Assumption Forever scholar. Dr. Angela Regala, president of Assumption College shared what Pope Francis said: “Making a difference and helping others does not have to be done on a grand scale but can be done in everyday things that we do, with kindness and love.”
Sr. Mary Joseph Concepcion, Superior of San Lorenzo Community, highlighted the impact of the donors’ generosity.Days before receiving the token for my mother, I received the trophy and prize of my sister, Sandy Prieto-Romualdez, who was overall champion at the 23rd Annual Golf Tournament of the Assumption Alumnae Association Inc. (AAA). Held at Sta. Elena Golf and Country Club last Aug. 12, the tournament had 174 contenders playing a friendly game of golf. The golfers came to help the Assumption Community projects.
The golf tournament has become part of the AAA’s yearly efforts to further strengthen ties with its tournaments sponsors who hail from different industries.
Among the tournament’s major sponsors were: Power of Plaid, SM Foundation, Del Monte Philippines Inc., EastWest Bank & Cards, FPJ Panday Bayanihan, SGV Foundation, Big Sky Nation, DMCI Homes, Mount Fuji Lending, SPES Construction, True Value, Ayala Land Premier, Petnet, Bloomberry Resort & Hotels, Enrique Quimson, Botanika Nature Residences, BaliPure, Inland Corp., Cibo, Malayan Insurance and ACHS ’86.
Sr. Ana Melocoton, R.A., ended her invocation at the luncheon by quoting St. John Paul II, reminding those present how ”our being increases in the measure of our givenness.”
Truly, what a day to celebrate the act of giving.
Versatile fashion
After our trip to Iloilo for our Assumption HS ’81 donation, my classmate Popsie Gamboa helped her cousin Mich Araullo-Razon set up her new collection, “Soledad,” which is at Rockwell’s Power Plant Mall until the end of August. I have followed Mich’s career in fashion when she began participating in small bazaars fresh out of college, and then eventually at the MaArte fairs at The Pen.
While Mich navigates her new role as a mom to Alonso and 2-month-old Alvaro, coping with loss and new changes in life, “Soledad” is a celebration of finding peace every day.
Each piece in this collection is designed with versatility in mind, effortlessly blending her signature tropical and ikat motifs with easy-wearing silhouettes. “Soledad” promises to add handmade, timeless staples to your wardrobe. Mich’s attention to detail and her passion for storytelling through fashion shine through, inviting you to create new memories with every wear.
While in Rockwell this weekend, check out the Kathâ Pilipinas bazaar at The Fifth At Rockwell, especially the booth of Janice Suarez of Madam Lakwatsera. Her artistic and handcrafted accessories are unique and special. Experience the fusion of heritage and modern artistry in Suarez’s items, all crafted with the spirit of creativity and tradition.
Curated lifestyle
Another classmate who has been busy with her interior design practice is Tessa Alindogan. She did one of six curated lifestyle displays, showcasing Stores Specialists Inc. (SSI) stores Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids and West Elm Philippines. Tessa’s “Effortless Elegance” highlighted West Elm’s modern designs with sleek furniture, creating an upscale atmosphere.
Chito Vijandre and Ricky Toledo’s “Contemporary Country” blended cottage style with modern elegance in a cozy bedroom, featuring Pottery Barn’s furniture and décor. Tina Cuevas’ “Tuscany on My Mind” captured the Italian countryside essence.
Kaye Tiñga’s “Relaxed Beach Vibes” brought coastal tranquility to life with Pottery Barn’s beach-inspired decor. Mia Borromeo’s “Afternoon Tea in Blue and White” elevated the tradition of afternoon tea with Pottery Barn’s refined tableware and decor.
Anton Baretto’s “Al Fresco Entertaining” featured West Elm’s stylish outdoor furniture and décor with lush greens, warm woods and a chic cozy palette.
As for me, I have used my Assumption flair to help promote the newest Kultura Filipino Design Studio showcasing stylish Pinoy brands like Alixia Marie PH, Cachet Collection, Happy Andrada, Pampinay, Tahum Clothing, Tiano by Thian Rodriguez, Vintage Candles and Pamanna Jewellery.
Delighted to try all the styles, I mixed and matched the brands to come up with my own look. I am excited to shop again in the rest of the store for bags and accessories. Visit Kultura’s Filipino Design Studio, Level 3 at SM Podium until the end of August only.
Kultura supports local artistry and craftsmanship, MSMEs, and local communities and artisans. It is all about sustainability, elevating Pinoy pride, all things uniquely Filipino, modern and relevant designs, and upholding tradition, heritage and living crafts.
