Freddie Marks His 60th @ Linaw Beach Resort

breathtaking view of Linaw Beach Resort

the idyllic setting turns magical the moment dusk sets in.... perfect for honeymooners!

Those were two splendid, very creative and wisely- spent two days at the lovely Linaw Beach Resort in Danao, Panglao Island, Bohol, Philippines while I was prepping and psyching myself for its two-in-one affair which I would be emceeing; 

The blessing and inauguration of its Kasadya Hall which officially opened last Friday, October 5 along with its additional accommodations and the second one was the belated diamond birthday bash of Freddy, its main man

It began with the ribbon- cutting ceremony & blessing officiated by Fr. Felix Hora followed by dinner at the resort's Pearl Restaurant. 

The aperitif indeed whetted my appetite. The food was absolutely divine and the wine selection was fantastic.

mouth-watering titillation of the palate

The beach setting was perfect and the evening's program highlights included a special song number from Krizia Marie Gango and musical numbers from the Katibu Ukelele & String Ensemble courtesy of Frank & Nila Montero.

That's Krizia Marie serenading Karin & Freddy with her jazzy version of L-O-V-E

Nila & Frank Montero's contribution to youth development in Panglao. The Katibu Ukelele & String Ensemble gives a unique local flavor to pop songs

The night turned nostalgic when a montage of vintage photos from Freddy's younger days and set to music was flashed on a wide screen. 

By the way, I conceptualized and edited the video myself. 

Of course, together with Karin & Arthur and with the help of Natalie who had to search for all those photos in Belgium, I had to work on it shrouded with secrecy lest we spoil the surprise element!

All night dancing and merrymaking capped a perfect evening. Even the weather cooperated that evening!

Freddy is now officially a Diamond Dude!

Linaw's gracious First Lady Karin mugs for the camera with fellow Rotarians Maricel Madrona & Butching Gango, the proud mom of talented UST Conservatory of Music student Krizia Marie

with buxomy beauty Maricel & Bohol's most good-looking dentist, Dr. Louie de la Serna

of course, the party wouldn't be complete without the Miss Panglao 2012 beauties! 

the birthday boy is flanked by the Miss Panglao 2012 beauties led by this year's queen Meschellane Cajels (extreme right)

the latest addition to Linaw Beach Resort

Rotarian Wim Zanstra and wife Daisy strike a wacky pose!

with the president of the Rotary Club of Panglao Island, Irena Heberer

the pool was positively inviting that enchanting evening...

Linaw Resort is definitely one of Bohol's best-kept secrets. 

Barely four years old, it has earned positive reviews and great feedback from satisfied guests who rave about its food, impeccable service and staff that spoils its guests.

 very comfy & fluffy pillows are most welcome! 

The resort's well- appointed rooms and suites are very modern and spacious. 

I was pleasantly surprised with how comfortable the rooms were and the housekeeping made sure everything was taken care of

Linaw's bubbly and amiable frontliners

Its newly- blessed Kasadya Hall on the other hand, is devoid of the usual razzmatazz and instead focuses on comfort, convenience & privacy.

Perfect choice for intimate affairs, trainings, workshops & seminars. Its name which means happiness, fun, revelry in Bisaya is very apt for a truly unforgettable experience await those who will book the place for their functions and events.

that's moi with good friend Karin Wesemael

Thank you to the staff for making me feel like a king during my two day stay there.

Special thanks also to their very hardworking Assistant Manager, Art Bagcat

Again, congratulations to Karin & Freddy, the driving forces behind Linaw Beach Resort! 

Before I say adieu, here's the greeting bloopers video which is guaranteed to leave a smile on your faces! 

CHEERS!