Just like in the United States, Father’s Day has become such a big deal here in the country. It’s one of the successful commercial endeavors invented by businesses in the Western world.
In fact, before the pandemic, total spending for Father’s Day gifts in the U.S. alone reached more than US$16 billion. Of course, Mother’s Day spending is almost double this amount, which proves that customers of all ages don’t mind spending for their parents and splurging on gifts that are unique and will leave a lasting, beautiful memory of the occasion.
My favorite hotel-by-the-sea, Conrad Manila, attracted a lot of big-spenders this Father’s Day by making available a “Feast Fit For A King” at its China Blue by Jereme Leung. Dads feasted on modern interpretations of traditional Chinese favorites: Gold Roast U.S. Duck with Barbecue Sauce, Sautéed Premier U.S. Sliced Beef and Cha Tsai, Black Fungus with Dried Chili Pepper Sauce, and Steamed Signature House Specialty Red Gold Long-Life Custard Buns, among others.
The de luxe hotel also had a special Father’s Day Hamper at the C Lounge which included a bottle of their signature cocktail Hilario, and collectible miniature spirits masterfully paired with Executive Chef Daniel Patterson’s homemade chicharones, spiced cajun almonds, and others.
The hotel management really planned on spoiling the padres de familia as they even had a Takeaway Father’s Day Barbecue at the Brasserie on 3, and from the Bru Coffee Bar, Father’s Day Tin Cakes, which are moist-infused sponge cakes topped with premium chocolate, cream, or toffee, and a light and refreshing chocolate cap. The aforementioned items designed for the “Hero of Your Heart” are still available until the end of the month through (02) 8833-9999.
For musically inclined dads, here’s a historic concert to look out for, happening tomorrow, June 26 (Philippines and Asia) and on June 27 (USA, Europe, and Middle East). It is presented by ABS-CBN live via KTX and will be simulcast on iWant TFC with a delayed telecast on Kapamilya online. “Isang Tinig, Isang Lahi” (One Voice, One People) brings together renowned Filipino musical artists and international advocates as they come together in song to “Save Lives From COVID-19”.
The star-studded event top-bills musical greats Lea Salonga, Regine Velasquez, Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano, Pilita Corrales, Joe Mari Chan, Apl.De.Ap, and Ogie Alcasid. They will be joined by Bamboo, Maymay Entrata, Ian Veneracion, Moira de la Torre, and will have the special participation of Senator Manny Pacquiao and American singer, composer, and lyricist David Pomeranz.
This humanitarian project unifies many Filipino American associations led by Filipino-American Voice United (FAVU) chairman Juanita Nimfa Yamsuan Gamez. Chaired by my good friend, multimedia personality and civic leader Cory Quirino, this project is intended to develop a strong sense of solidarity among the 20-million-strong Filipinos worldwide, according to FAVU vice chairman and president Jerry Perez de Tagle. Meantime, Cory sends out an earnest plea to all of us here and abroad to “join hearts and hands to help our kababayans in this time of crisis”.
The concert is free to all who wish to watch. It will have a simultaneous donation-drive for the benefit of Caritas Philippines, Caring Hearts Foundation in the U.S., PGH Medical Foundation, Tuloy Foundation, ABS-CBN Foundation, Philippine Relief and Development Services, and the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption. Shopee also joins in the fundraising efforts through its special edition Bayani, Kabalikat and Kaibigan Donor Cards.
YOUR WEEKEND CHUCKLE
LAW OF MECHANICAL REPAIR: After your hands become coated with grease, your nose will begin to itch and you’ll suddenly have the urge to pee.
For feedback, I’m at [email protected]
