GRAND SAMPAGUITA BALL GEARS UP FOR SEPTEMBER 23, 2023
by Nhick Ramiro-Pacis, PCFI Director of Cultural Affairs

The stage is set, and excitement is building as the Philippine Cultural Foundation, Inc.’s Sampaguita Ladies Society gears up to host the much-anticipated 29th Sampaguita Ball. With the sub-theme “Elegancia Filipina,” the ball is set to take place on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at 6:00 PM, amidst the dazzling splendor of the Bayanihan Arts and Events Center’s Grand Sampaguita Ballroom in Tampa, Florida.

Led by the gracious chairperson, Lissa Biglete, wife of PCFI’s current Chairman of the Board, Arnell Biglete, Sampaguita Ball 2023 promises to carry on the rich tradition of elegance and grandeur that has graced previous events. Mrs. Biglete, who also holds the esteemed position of the present chair of the Sampaguita Ladies Society, takes the reins after the successful stewardship of Lucy Bautista, who held the position for over a decade.

The illustrious Sampaguita Ladies Society includes prominent members such as Marly Balderama, Emma Barrido, Dr. Terry Bissonnette, Dr. Judith Cimafranca, Betty Covarrubias, Lari Peterson, Bing Curioso, Vivian Dudgeon, Loida Espiritu, Liberty Galloway, Dr. Vicky Tagala, Clem Lazaro, Dr. Linda Pascual, Helen Piloneo, Edna Ramos, Dr. Rosie Tena, Felilia Ticzon, Kristina Biglete, Tita Ravi, Abigail Hamilton, and many more, all of whom contribute their passion and dedication to make the event a resounding success.

As the excitement mounts, the cultural arms of the Foundation, namely the Philippine Performing Arts Company, Inc., the Philippine Choral Group, and the Musikong Kawayan Bamboo Ensemble are already hard at work, preparing for a mesmerizing production number that will undoubtedly captivate the audience’s hearts. Ren Candelario, Kamille Janess, PCFI Assistant Cultural Director Connie Chanrasmi, and PCFI Cultural Director Nhick Ramiro Pacis lead the coordination of these artistic endeavors, promising a night to remember.

An event known for attracting guests from far and wide, Sampaguita Ball 2023 anticipates attendees from cities such as Pensacola, Jacksonville, Melbourne, Miami, Orlando, Kissimmee, West Palm Beach, and beyond. The Sampaguita Ball is more than just an evening of elegance; it is also a red-carpet fundraiser event by the Philippine Cultural Foundation, Inc., priced at $125/$150 per person. This includes a night of grandeur, complimentary valet parking, an all-night deluxe open bar service, and a sumptuous seven-course laureate dinner provided by Hao-Wah Catering.

Adding to the allure, guests can look forward to a special production number by PCFI’s cultural arms and live-band music by the renowned Evelyn Rhythm-n-Motion Band for all-night dancing. The evening culminates with the traditional Cena de Media Noche, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

To maintain the event’s sophistication, guests must dress in long evening gowns or Terno/Filipiniana for the ladies and tuxedo or Barong Tagalog for the gentlemen. Please note that this is a reservations-only event, and spots are available on a first-paid basis.

With the stage set for an evening of cultural extravagance, the 29th Sampaguita Ball stands poised to dazzle and enchant, celebrating the rich heritage of the Philippines and uniting the community in a spirit of camaraderie and celebration. Join us as we mark a memorable milestone and contribute to the noble cause championed by the Philippine Cultural Foundation, Inc. as all the proceeds from this event will benefit the Foundation’s cultural programs and maintenance of the Philippine Cultural Enrichment Complex and the upkeep of the Bayanihan Arts and Events Center.

The Philippine Cultural Foundation’s Bayanihan Arts and Events Center is at 14301 Nine Eagles Drive, Tampa, FL 33626.

For more information about Sampaguita Ball 2023, please get in touch with the following:
Lissa Biglete (813) 909-6470
Vivian Furigay-Dudgeon (813) 925-1232
Lucy Bautista (727) 639-7980

Let the elegance and grandeur of the Sampaguita Ball transport you to a realm of culture, tradition, and elegance like never before!

 

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