December 27, 2025 | 12:00am
Club Bulakeño, founded by the well-respected Lydia Reyes, dazzled society once again as it marked its 36th annual ball aptly themed “La Bulakeña” at the elegant Rizal Ballroom of Makati Shangri-La, Manila in Makati City.
Inspired by Juan Luna’s iconic masterpiece, the celebration paid glowing tribute to the grace and allure of the Filipina in her timeless baro’t saya.
Club Bulakeño presidents Arnold Reyes and Maru Go led the distinguished affair which continues the organization’s heartfelt mission of uplifting Bulacan’s less fortunate through meaningful projects and charitable endeavors.
Club Bulakeño founder Lydia Reyes
Among the esteemed guests were Bulacan Gov. Daniel Fernando and Vice Gov. Alex Castro who were both honored as Huwarang Anak ng Bulacan along with celebrated personalities lawyer Dominador “Jimmy” Buhain, Maria Luisa Santiago, Cary Santiago, Miss Universe Asia 2024 Chelsea Manalo, and Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez. The splendid evening opened with a stately rigodon de honor and featured a radiant fashion parade headlined by La Bulakeña Dr. Mary Jane Alvero-Al Mahdi and her fellow queens, accompanied by equally debonair gentlemen led by Vice Gov. Castro. A special salute was given to the Presidents Choice Circle awardees for their unwavering support.
Howie Go, Club Bulakeño president Maru Go, William Go, Wyam Go
A coming home like no other
Bobby Alvarez, Agile Zamora
Homecoming season shines even brighter this year as Novel Hotel Manila rolls out a heartwarming welcome for our modern-day heroes, our beloved balikbayans and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), who return with full suitcases, fuller hearts, and the well-earned desire to rest.
Jay and Czarina Camus, Nini Licaros, Angola Consul Helen Ong, and STAR’s Gracie Go
Tucked in vibrant Taguig City, this stylish haven beautifully marries heartfelt Filipino hospitality with soothing Korean-inspired comfort, creating a serene escape complete with minimalist K-style rooms, a refreshing city-view pool, and elegant spaces like the Seoul Function Hall for long-awaited reunions. With exclusive and affordable holiday staycation rates, Novel Hotel Manila ensures every guest enjoys a rejuvenating retreat that restores their spirits, uplifts their senses, and makes homecoming truly memorable.
For information, you may visit their website: https://novelhotel.ph/.
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You may email me at jjlitton@indanet.com. Follow me on Facebook and YouTube: Johnny Litton by Jayelles PH and on Instagram: @jayellesph.