Maia's 80 th birthday bash

Like the vivacious lady she always has been, Maia Ramos “sizzled” in her flaming red gown during her grand 80 th birthday celebration hosted by her loving family, especially her nephews and nieces, who simply adore her.

Her dramatic entrance to thunderous applause at the Grand Ballroom of Sugarland Hotel escorted by her nephews, reminded me of Barbara Streisand's bonggacious entrance in the movie, “Hello Dolly”. Absolutely stunning!

The venue was filled with members of her family and countless friends and admirers. This is one lady who has touched so many lives with her generosity, her warmth and her openness. Traces of her beauty are still very much evident despite her years. A heart-stopping moment for the celebrator was the sudden appearance of her former “barkada” in UP, Dr. Tsuba Kimoto and Dr. Takeo Nomura from Taiwan who traveled all the way from abroad just to greet her on her special day.

Tributes flowed from various guests for this 2009 Banwahanon Awardee, who has been a consistent achiever all throughout her college days down to her profession in the academe. Her colleagues from the University of St. La Salle couldn't praise her enough for everything she has done especially her impact on her students.

But the most touching tribute came from her own brother, Judge Jesus Ramos, who described what a great sister she has been to her two brothers. Brother Toti Ramos left the audience gasping for breath as they laughed over his funny anecdotes about his beloved sister who he described as, “galit sa pera”!

Everyone enjoyed the sumptuous dinner of especially prepared culinary delights. After dinner, the audio-visual presentation was a virtual trip down memory lane with visions of the past. The crowd gasp with delight at the photo of Maia looking very sexy in her short-shorts with her “Betty Grable” legs on display!

Maia's nephews, nieces, grand nephews and grandnieces put on a delightful show featuring various song and dance numbers for her.

At the end of the program, Maia brushed away her tears of joy as she thanked everyone who made her birthday so memorable.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MAIA!*