WARMING UP THE RUNWAY with The Russian Winter

The Society for Cultural Enrichment, Inc. (SCEI) headed by Chairman Angola Consul Helen Ong, Vice Chairman Dr. Jimmy Laya, and President Bo Muralla recently held its annual charity Fashion Show. This year’s theme differed greatly from those of years’ past, carrying a theme depicting “Russian Winter”.

The fundraising dinner and fashion show was held at the Rizal Ballroom of the Makati Shangri-La in Manila. It was organized by the event Chairpersons Malou Martinez, Maru Go, and Joy Ejercito, and featured the beautiful and exceptional creations of haute couture designers Rhett Eala and JC Buendia.

SCEI also acknowledged patrons of our local art; women who have tirelessly supported emerging artists. These individuals have contributed to art appreciation, promoted art education, as well as spread awareness.

The 11 Cultural Achievement awardees were Sheree Chua, Rose Basa, Caroline Andrade, Chuchi Villar, Eisa Paredes Mercado, Grace Co, Lina Castillo, Manolyne Taylor, Dr. Mildred Vitangcol, Nelia Sarcol, and Mhel Pechera. The Cultural Achievement Awards were presented by known artists Liza Macula Elizalde, Eddie Chua, Isay Alvarez, and Cecilia San Pedro.

The event was held in order to benefit dance scholars, along with a program to expose public school teachers to culture and the arts. Also benefitting & commended was the treatment of cancer patients, in addition to helping those who were affected by the recent ash fall in Batangas, Cavite, and Tagaytay brought forth by the eruption of the Taal Volcano.

With the championing of so many good causes, it goes without saying that it was an event that involved a lot of heart from those who put the work in, and was heartfelt in that they happily worked tirelessly to ensure the event went on without a hitch. Congratulations are in order for the officers and members of this worthy organization. Keep up the good work and keep melting our hearts with your Russian Winterlike creations.

Czarina Syquia, Junjun Ablaza