By Christian Cunanan
The Ateneo Alumni Association of British Columbia (AAABC) recently held its highly anticipated holiday event, Not So Blue Christmas, Season 2, bringing together a vibrant community for a night filled with music, camaraderie, and generosity. AAABC President Gigi Grey-Ricarse warmly welcomed attendees, celebrating the spirit of community and the impact of alumni generosity in empowering scholars. She expressed gratitude to community leaders, past presidents, board members, alumni, and their families for their unwavering support, emphasizing the importance of fostering unity and relationships during this festive season.
The sold-out gathering served as a heartfelt fundraiser for Ateneo scholars, with the masterful emcees, Vice President Heidi Ng and board member Jake De Guzman, bringing energy and flair to the evening. Guests enjoyed electrifying performances, including Rachel Navales’ captivating numbers and Lady Maridel with her Power Trio band, which got everyone on their feet. The event was made possible through the generous support of Platinum and Gold sponsors, as well as donors who contributed raffle prizes and auction items, showcasing the unity and generosity of the Ateneo community. Guillermo Francisco, one of the founding fathers of the AAABC Scholarship Program, spoke about the program’s success and the deeper meaning of Jesuit education: forming men and women for others, with others.
The AAABC extends heartfelt thanks to all who attended, volunteered, performed, sponsored, and supported the event. The evening beautifully captured the essence of the season, full of warmth, goodwill, and the spirit of giving. Guests wrapped up the night feeling inspired, connected, and filled with holiday cheer. Here is to a season of generosity and the enduring Atenean spirit. Merry Christmas! Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam!
Written by: Maria Aleli Poe, AAABC Board Member
Photography by: Khim Mata Hipol (@khim.mata.hipol), Mabuhay House Society (@mabuhayhouse)
The board members of AAABC, along with event volunteers, who contributed to the success of the event. Pictured from right to left, top row: Peter Liang – volunteer; Heidi Ng-Liang – vice president and emcee; Alya Manansala – past president; Emir Bautista – board member and event director; Mo Cordero – past board member and volunteer; Anna Cagaoan – board secretary; Ryan Ferrer – board member; Gigi Grey- Ricarse – AAABC President; Maria Poe – board member; Rain Orogo – board member; Ace Algas – board member; Roy Ricarse – volunteer; Andrea Legaspi and Kacy Domingo – volunteers. From left to right, bottom row: Kyle Ricarse and Lance Ricarse – volunteers; Denice Piloton – board treasurer; Jake De Guzman – board member & emcee; and Luis Dapat – board member.
A very merry “Not So Blue Christmas, Season 2” Christmas celebration at the Marriott Hotel ballroom was a sold-out success, drawing over 200 attendees.
AAABC President Gigi Grey-Ricarse delivered her welcoming remarks to officially commence the event.
Live auction winner for a luxurious 4-day stay in Hawaii, Mr. Eman Raguin. Pictured are Gigi Grey-Ricarse, Denice Piloton and event emcees: Jake De Guzman and Heidi Ng-Liang
Guillermo “GG” Francisco, one of the founding fathers of the AAABC Scholarship Program.
The Power Trio band with surprise guest performer, Lady Lee.
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