Events

32 Sanson’s Threw a Stylish Garden Party to Launch The Latest Tower

32 Sanson launched its fourth and last tower with a simple but sophisticated afternoon get-together that epitomized the Rockwell lifestyle.

The soft strains of a guitar and the melodic tune of a saxophone serve to welcome guests as they make their way down the landscaped paths towards the Clubhouse, where a crowd had already gathered for afternoon refreshments. With the pool and the property’s lush greenery as beautiful backdrops, the gathering was the kind of relaxing and sophisticated experience that people have come to expect from 32 Sanson. And although celebrations here always embody an easy-going luxe feel, this occasion was a particularly special one—it was the launch of the Solihiya, the development’s fourth tower.

Named for the Philippine weave pattern used in rattan furniture, the eight-storey tower will feature more spacious units–there is a wide choice of studio, two-bedroom executives, three-bedroom, and four-bedroom units available, which will enjoy more spacious kitchens and bedrooms. With the neighboring Buri tower, Solihiya will also have its own clubhouse, with amenities that include function rooms, a gym, swimming pool, and multi-purpose court.

The Ensaladilla de Gambas is one of the new dishes Kayu introduced at the party.

While the Solihiya is still in the midst of construction, guests got to enjoy a taste of this at the launch. The long tents were decorated with ferns and soft garden lighting. Small tableaus of large lamps filled with fairy lights and leafy tropical plants were distributed throughout the area, reinforcing the set-up’s rustic charm. The decorations were created by Agel Tio-Go of Parties by Agel, who wonderfully captured the spirit of an al fresco summer get-together. At the end of the pool, The Post, a Cebuano jazz ensemble, serenaded the crowd with a selection of classic pop favorites with a twist.

Cebuano band The Post serenaded the crowd with their jazz renditions

The occasion was also a chance for Chef Izzy Sy to introduce the new dishes that will be coming to Kayu this month. Arranged on a buffet table with black stone and bright, colorful flowers were an incredible selection of bites: the Ensaladilla de Gambas and Shiitake Croquettes were flavorful hors d’oeuvres, while the juicy Roast Short Plate was sliced up by chefs on the spot. A crowd favorite was the Egg Yolk Confit with Turmeric Rice and Roast Pork—the rich creamy flavor of the yolk perfectly complemented the mild spiciness of the rice, while the pork was the hearty addition that brought it all together. To perfectly pair with the sumptuous dishes, guests could choose between refreshing juices or a fine selection of wines.

By sunset, the twinkling glow of the lights gave the setting an even more magical air. The glasses kept clinking and the band kept playing as people continued to enjoy the delicious cuisine, the beautiful surroundings, and the great company. These are the kinds of things that come together and make 32 Sanson truly a home like no other.

Events

Some Enchanted Evening–Marguerite Lhuillier hosts a Despidida Dinner for Eva Gullas in her Fabulous Post-Modernist Maria Luisa Mansion

by Oj Hofer

The doyenne of everything bright and beautiful, Marguerite Lhuillier, hosted a dinner party in honor of her dear friend Eva Gullas at her effortlessly elegant home. She invited an intimate circle of guests for an evening of photo ops, fashion talk, positive vibes, and absolutely no politics—not even a whisper on the subject.

A 38-year-old Sapodilla tree with branches adorned with bird’s nest ferns and bromeliads that deepen its quiet, enduring beauty.

Upon entering the hostess’s expansive residence, guests were greeted by an open and welcoming space. A tall vase of fiery heliconias offered an instant boost of visual pleasure. Flanking this vibrant floral arrangement were two sacred sentinels: a Tibetan thangka of Compassion and Wisdom on the right console, and to the left, a serene image of Guanshiyin Pusa glowing with the aura of a Uruguayan amethyst geode. Completing this spiritual trio was a towering clear quartz cathedral geode. It felt as if each guest underwent a quiet cleansing and energizing upon stepping into a lush sanctuary framed by bougainvillea blossoms.

Marguerite Lhuillier, Mariquita Yeung, Frances Siao, and Christine Pelaez.

Cocktails were served at dusk. The usual spirits made their rounds—champagne, red and white wine—but this writer opted for a refreshing non-alcoholic cooler, which provided just the right kick. The extravagant tablescape featured a familiar array of cheeses and charcuterie, with my personal favorite, tortilla de patatas, delightfully arranged against the sparkling backdrop of Cebu City.

Standing Left to Right: Jun Pelaez, Dindo Arcenas , Lilet Heredia, Oj Hofer, Marguerite Lhuillier, Maris Holopeinen, Frances Siao, Christine Pelaez, Manolet Heredia, Erwin Siao Seated: Angelique Gradne Salve,Iris Fernan, Eva Gullas, Mariquita Yeung, and Jiji Gullas.

Dinner followed in a buffet-style spread catered by Café Laguna. There were no place cards on the table, allowing guests the freedom to choose their seats. Naturally, the dinner crowd gravitated between the gracious hostess, Marguerite, and the guest of honor, Eva. I was particularly fortunate to be seated beside Jun Pelaez, art connoisseur and collector. Our conversation flowed effortlessly into the realm of the arts, creativity, and life’s finer pursuits—pausing only with the arrival of desserts (my absolute weakness).

Jiji Gullas, Christopher Darza, Manolet Heredia, Dindo Fernan, and Erwin Siao

The final course of the evening featured the hostess’s famous leche flan and Christine Pelaez’s signature bibingka—sweet reminders that, like dessert, life is fleeting, but friendships, shared stories, and enchanting evenings like this one linger long after the last bite.

Eva Gullas, soon departing on a well-deserved hiatus, left us wrapped in laughter, elegance, and warmth. It’s a gift to have friends whose presence makes coming home to worth it.

Events

Can Art Spark Awakening? Inside Oj Hofer’s Tribute to His Zen Master

by Emmanuel Hamoy

On April 4, 2025, the much-anticipated exhibit One Flower, One World: Brushstrokes of Compassion and Wisdom opened at SM JMall, blending contemporary Buddhist art with interactive experiences. The event brought together art students, enthusiasts, collectors, social luminaries, community leaders, international Buddhist practitioners, and Dharma masters to celebrate Oj Hofer’s tribute to Venerable Master Hsing Yun through calligraphy, Zen ink painting, and Ikebana.

Erwin Choa (Adviser for Buddha’s Light International, Philippines), Marisa Fernan (Vice President of SM Prime Holdings Inc), Venerable Yung Guang (Head Abess of Fó Guāng Shān, Philippines), Marguerite Lhuillier (Social Luminary and Animal Rights Advocate), Sheila Go ( Adviser for Buddha’s Light International, Cebu)

Margie Lhuillier, artist Oj Hofer and Mariquita Yeung

Oj’s live calligraphy demonstrations captivated guests, offering them a unique chance to witness his creative process and receive personalised calligraphy pieces. The afternoon culminated in an exclusive cocktail reception featuring delicious vegetarian delicacies prepared by Nonki Japanese Restaurant.

Joy Uy, Francis Dravigny, Venerable Yung Guang, Marissa Fernan, Margette Sarmiento

Among the distinguished guests were Oj’s muse, society maven Marguerite Lhuillier, SM Holdings’ Marissa Fernan, Buddhist advisers Sheila Go and Erwin Choa, and, most importantly, Fo Guang Shan Philippines’ Head Abbess, Venerable Yung Guang, who shared reflections on Master Hsing Yun’s teachings and the role of art in spiritual practice.

Artist Oj Hofer and Paeng Batuigas (Senior Assistant Vice President, Visayas Marketing, SM Supermalls)

The exhibit was a resounding success, showcasing how art can foster reflection, connection, and understanding in a diverse, multicultural society. The event was made possible with the support of SM JMall, Buddha’s Light International Association, and Fo Guang Shan Philippines.

Events

Villa Mariquita: An Evening of Elegance, Laughter, and Fine Champagne

by Emmanuel Hamoy

Villa Mariquita opened its doors to a very select few. On cue, a server hands you a glass of Pol Roger as Mrs. Yeung warmly greets you, effortlessly chic in a perfect pair of Chanel jeans and a pullover. Conversations over food, between sips of wine and champagne, range from the mundane to the profound—each exchange punctuated with laughter, and then even more laughter.

Margie Lhuillier, Frances Siao, this writer and Mariquita Yeung

Mariquita Yeung sharing experiences with guests on art collection

Oj Hofer, Freemont Base, Eva Gullas, Frances Siao, Jun Escario, Margie Lhuillier, Cary Santiago, the host Mariquita Yeung, Phillip Rodriguez, this writer, Christine Pelaez, Tamsin Booth and Pearl Atienza