MANILA, Philippines - Dindo and Iris (nee Fernan) tossed the party of the season to mark the 18th birthday of their only daughter, Maria Irisha. Mia to all and sundry, she was the belle at her own ball.

There was a theme to it—1930s formal, which meant ladies in slinky gowns of black or white or both (and jewels), and dapper gentlemen in smart dark coats and silky ties.

Venue was City Sports Club Cebu. Champagne and canapés were served at the foyer, while the dinner and program, followed by dancing, were held at Sinulog Grand Ballroom.

There was a “cotillion with a twist,” since the music played came from 1930s musicals and hit tunes. “A la Broadway,” someone whispered to explain the dance sequence.

Eighteen of Cebu’s most dashing swains, including David Aboitiz, had a chance to trip the light fantastic with Mia. Also, there were 18 roses for her, as well as 18 treasures, and 18 glowing candles representing many good wishes.

Matteo Guidicelli, Mia’s cousin and racing champ, showed what a good singer he was, which gives him a great fallback career. Beaming proudly were his mom, Glenna Fernan Guidicelli, and grandma, Letty Fernan, who’s glamorous as ever.

With so many young people around, and powerful dance music, the bash went on till way past midnight.

National Day of France

French Ambassador and Mme. Gerard Chesnel are expected in July 11 for the observance of Bastille Day. That’s the National Day of France, celebrated here by Mr. and Ms Michel Lhuillier together with Les Amis de la France.

The reception will be at Pino, the most elegant Filipino restaurant in Cebu. Joel del Prado is in charge.

July is Spanish month for Casino Español de Cebu and highlight day is July 25, dubbed “Dia de Santiago.”

Spanish Ambassador Don Luis Arias Romero and his wife Doña Soledad de Arias have been invited to grace the occasion. It will not be a formal affair this year, but a “Tapas Night” with quite an array of gastronomic delights, and very fine wines.

Over at the Marco Polo Plaza Hotel Hans Hauri, the general manager is Swiss. And so there will be a grand Swiss holiday first week of August. But, then, there’s always something going on at Marco Polo. A grand debutantes’ ball is being planned in September. The next event is Oktoberfest!