We had many distinguished guests including Magsingal Association of Northern California officers and members, headed by their president, Mrs. Cecille Ponce Rosario. We had the privilege of being joined by numerous members of the newly chartered Amer-Asian Lions Club headed by led by their president, Mr. Julius Suero. Members and some 'kailians' from the Bay Area and Sacramento graced the night with their presence. What an honor it was for them to have driven all the way to Stockton to show their support. It was just a great feeling seeing everyone, and bonding with all alleviated some feeling of homesickness, especially during this Christmas Season.
Rev. Fr. Edwin Musico started the night with a prayer. He is always present at our events, and always have MOA in his prayers.
Most of us know that our president, Mr. Tereso Ugalino has been low-key for sometime now due to health reasons. However, like the true leader as he is, he came with his best spirit, got up infront of the crowd and acknowledged his guests smiling from ear to ear. With that being said, with yet another example of the magnificent Magsingaleno virtue of camaraderie and determination, a very special lady in my life, Recording Secretary to MOA but mom to me, Grace Panlasigui-lu, took the bull by its horns and spearheaded the organization of the event. Though she did not know how it'd turn out, she never hesitated to take on the task. Thank you to Leilanie T. Pangaliman (Treasurer) and Dina E. Foronda (Asst. Auditor) for helping my mom with the details.
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Our very own enthusiastic legal counsel, Atty. Gloria Florendo inducted the officers. She has always been an avid supporter. She was asked to say some inspirational words to our new officers, and her speech was indeed something that should inspire us all. It was such a great compliment to hear that we are the ones who inspire her. As prominent as she is in the Filipino organizations, it was truly uplifting to hear that our humble organization is something she admires genuinely. Our new officers took oath to lead MOA to fulfill its mission for the next three (3) years. There's no doubt in my mind MOA will be taken to a new level with the set of officers inducted. With that said, it was time to celebrate the new officers as well as the Christmas season.
It was all about bonding and fun... Raffles added enjoyment during the night. I'd like to thank all our members and officers who donated prizes for our guests to win. We had a little bit of every nice thing up for grabs. We had wine, gift cards, Bath & Body products, Victoria Secret's goodies, Christmas items and even cash.
One of our biggest supporters and lifetime member, Mr. Julius Suero, shared with us his God-given talent of singing and serenaded us with three songs in Iloko, English and even Spanish. His Ilocano version of the Tagalog song "Ikaw", was nothing short of phenomenal and definitely a hair riser.
Our Executive VP, Engr. Oscar Florendo kicked off a night of dancing to the music provided by DJ Frank Gatdula by saying his short yet very meaningful 'closing remarks.'
Though we did not have an elaborate program, it was an event that was seamlessly executed. I guess it's true when they say, "less is more". From MOA's youngest patrons to its older ones, each displayed an equal enthusiasm. Everyone who attended came in with genuine smiles and all looked like they were enjoying themselves, and the Magsingaleno spirit of unity, camaraderie, and joy was displayed.
Thank you to the management and staff of Red Orchids Restaurant for the festive set up and delicious food.
From my family to yours, I want to wish each and everyone a Merry Christmas! May the good Lord bless us all with a prosperous New Year!
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