The Philippine Chapter had another well-attended and exciting Annual Get-together on 18 November at the EDR at ADB Headquarters. Over 160 members and spouses and some guests, mostly in their Filipiana attire, came and had an enjoyable evening with many going home with raffle prizes. Country Coordinator Gam de Armas called the business meeting to order at 5:35 p.m., a bit delayed because of the free picture taking at the photo booth, courtesy of Jess Arnuco, to have a momento of the get-together elebrating the 25th anniversary of the Philippine Chapter. After the invocation delivered by Leonie Francisco, Gam welcomed everyone and introduced the new members present while the names of the other members that joined the chapter this year were being shown on the screen.
During the business meeting the members were apprised of the status of pension and health benefits by Hans Springer and Jill de Villa. Everybody clapped when Hans reiterated that the 3% annual increase in pension to take care of inflation was here to stay. AFE played a major role in convincing ADB to retain this crucial benefit. Other important matters were discussed including possible availment of a low cost life insurance coverage to take care of funeral arrangements raised by John Boyd.
Highlight of the affair was the close dance competition among the three participating area groups. Looking and dancing like the famed Bayanihan, the dancers danced with precision and confidence giving the board of judges headed by David Parker a difficult time. Picture taking by area groups followed. Then it was time for buffet dinner - a mix of Japanese and Filipino cuisine with "lechon"!
Co-emcees for the evening were Manny Faelnar and Cynthia Kaufman. A special song number was rendered by Warren Kirk Ty of OAIS-TR followed by the presentation and awarding of the dance competition winners. For the second year in a row, the South Group won first place followed by the North Group who performed a medley of native and modern dances. The East Group with the biggest number of participants was 2nd runner-up.
The much-awaited line dancing came next spiced by games and the calling of lucky winners of many raffle prizes donated by generous members. The grand raffle prize was a trip and three-day stay at a nice resort in Boracay. Hans selected and awarded the best in costume
The North Group headed by Carmen Dimayuga and Glo Ferry who did an excellent job, were the group host this year. Gam announced that the host for next year will be the West Group headed by Julie Guevarra. Throughout the evening, members had their picture taken using the beautiful giant photo montage as background provided by Malu Silverman - posing where their indiviual enlarged photo was.
A fitting way to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Philippine Chapter!