Red Charity Gala: A Red-letter Affair

The Philippine social set was in full force at 2016’s Red Charity Gala. The grand ballroom of Shangri-La At The Fort was bedecked in fabulous fashions as society’s who’s who showed up in their best garb—and came armed with the best intentions. The gala unfolded with its traditional formal sit-down dinner, premier live auction, and grand fashion show. At the helm of this noble cause, which has become an annual spectacle for the country’s elite, were society mavens Tessa Prieto-Valdes and Kaye Tinga.

Truly a fashion féte, the night’s festivities were off to a glamorous start as invitees took to the red carpet in their signature outfits and were greeted by a risqué but tasteful fashion tableau at the foyer of the ballroom which showcased top mannequins dressed in the latest underwear collection from Bench, the country’s top fashion retailer.

After cocktails, Shangri-La At The Fort’s culinary expertise was in proud display as a sumptuous spread was served. What followed was the live bidding with Tim Yap joining Tessa as the lively auctioneers that night. A limited-edition Omega watch, a special Remy Martin bottle, and prestige Jewelmer pearl jewelry were but some of the many plum items that were up for grabs. To cap the auction, Senator Richard Gordon received the Php 200,000 donation onstage for the Philippine Red Cross.

The finale of the evening was the return of Chito Vijandre’s style genius to the catwalk. His 40-piece opus with a flamboyant and fantastical Filipiniana theme drew rave reviews from the crowd. Guests will describe this night as unforgettable because the gala’s worthy cause was married with a style spectacle unseen in years. In our book, this is what made it a truly red-letter affair.