Nena's 90 th birthday

The 90 th grand birthday celebration of Angela “Nena” de Leon on October 3 at the Bacolod Pavillon Hotel started with a concelebrated mass, presided over by Frs. Felix Pasquin, Jerryvel Celestial, and Deogracias Camon.

The celebrator was the dewy-eyed 21-year-old bride of the late Negrense doctor, Tomas de Leon, when she arrived in Bacolod from Manila in 1946 who could not even speak Ilonggo. Sixty-nine years later, Nena is now a native Negrense, and she celebrated her 90 th birthday among her family, friends, swimming table groupmates, and special guests. Blessed with an effervescent personality and business acumen, she raised five children who gifted her with eight grandkids, who arrived from the States and Manila to be with her on her special day.

The birthday program was emceed by Pinky Marquez and Kathy Melendez. Chinese Chamber Lion dancers performed intricate acrobatics, to the delight of the audience. Tenor Ralph Dajao sang “El Mundo” and had a duet with Pinky Marquez. A special song number was performed by 4 year-old great grandson, Sloan de Leon-Tioseco, together with Tomas Jr. Felix and Ricardo sang “Imagination”, and tango champions John and Kim danced two Argentine tangos.

Daughter Carissa, wife of Jack Maalat, orchestrated the 200-plus guest event at the Bacolod Pavillon grand ballroom. Visitors from Manila included Manay Marichu Vera Perez Maceda, with Ernest Maceda Jr., his wife Rica, Chona Vera Perez, Cocoy and Jocelyn Vera Perez, daughter Patricia, and Joana and Baby Araneta Fores.

The food, wine, dancing and enjoyment flowed freely! Oh, what a celebration! God bless and good health, Tita Nena!*

Remember: Fellowship builds us up and bind us together. Obedience to God is an expression of our love for God*

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