Thursday, October 29, 2009

Mar, Korina Tie The Knot

Mar, Korina Tie The Knot
The Philippine Star)
By: Aurea Calica
October 28, 2009

Sen. Mar Roxas and his bride, TV and radio broadcaster Korina Sanchez, kiss following their wedding ceremony at the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City yesterday. Manny Marcelo

MANILA, Philippines - It was a people’s wedding for Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas II and broadcast journalist Korina Sanchez as thousands shared the simple but elegant affair where the couple vowed to love each other for the rest of their lives.

Loud cheers were heard outside the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City, first when the couple arrived and later, when they were pronounced husband and wife.

The wedding was really planned to be enjoyed with the people.

The original venue for a grand reception was the Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, Quezon City but this was scrapped to reach out to even more Filipinos as the couple decided to donate their more than P2-million budget for the event to the victims of recent calamities.

Instead, onlookers were provided with food packs while guests had sandwiches, biscuits, native delicacies and drinks inside the premises of the church.

The couple was also blessed with good weather that made it easier for people to come and watch the affair in and arounbd the church.

“Fulfillment of all I’ve waited for”

Mar and Korina, who were engaged for five years before getting married, made their personal vows as the groom kissed the hand and temple of the bride every now and then during the ceremony.

Roxas described his bride as “God’s precious gift” to him and said he would treat her not only as his wife but also as his best friend.
“I love you as you are. You are precious to me. I am happy we are together and truly thank you for taking me and putting up with me. I give myself to you as your best friend, to applaud when you succeed and encourage when you stumble. I offer myself to you as your husband in respect and in trust. Today I take you to be my wife. I promise to be with you and be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health. I will love and honor you all the days of my life,” Roxas said.

For her part, Sanchez said her vows in Filipino, saying Roxas was the fulfillment of everything she dreamed of in a husband.

“Minamahal kong Mar, matagal ang panahong lumipas na tayo ay nagsarili ng landas at naghintay ng pagkakataong ito. Tayo ngayon ay pinagpala ng tadhana at ng Panginoon na mahanap ang isa’t isa. Totoo pala na ang pangarap ay nagaganap,” Sanchez said.

“Ikaw ang katuparan ng lahat ng aking hinintay at minimithi ng aking puso na maging kasama, karamay, kaibigan at kakampi. Ikaw ang aking pinili upang alayan ng lahat ng iyong kakailanganin sa isang kasama at katabi sa buhay sa abot ng aking makakaya. Dumaan man ang unos, mga pagsubok, ang sakit, ang kabiguan, ako ay mananatiling dikit sa iyong dibdib kahawak ng mahigpit ng iyong mga kamay. Nguni’t sabay din tayong lalakbay sa landas na itinahak ng Panginoon sa atin. Magkasama tayong ngingiti, tatawa, hahalakhak sa malaki man na tagumpay at sa pinakamababaw na biro,” Sanchez said to her groom.

She promised Roxas that she would be there for him for the rest of their lives.
“Mar, ang pangako ko sa iyo, saksi ang aking mga yumaong magulang na si Celia at Ramon, katuwang ng aking buong pamilya at lahat ng nagmamahal sa ating dalawa, basbas ng langit ang aking pagmamahal sa iyo at kasama ng Panginoon kahapon, ngayon at bukas, ako’y iyong-iyo,” Sanchez said.

Tears of joy

Sanchez became emotional as she walked down the aisle to meet her groom. She did not wear the traditional veil on her Filipiniana-inspired piña wedding gown.

As she stepped out of the bridal car, the crowd screamed her name even as she was covered by a cream-colored cloth on the way to the church door, which was closed after members of the entourage came in to give the bride a dramatic entrance.

Roxas became teary-eyed too as Sanchez walked down the aisle. He came an hour earlier on board his trademark pedicab and shook hands with those waiting outside. He then marched with his mother, Judy Araneta-Roxas, while Sanchez was escorted by her brothers Milano, Miguelito and Emmanuel Ruiz.

Roxas used the pedicab in his infomercials to show he was one with the poor and will help them in uplifting their lives.

The Philippine Madrigal Singers sang “Ave Maria” as the entourage marched toward the altar.

Sanchez shed tears as singer Ray An Fuentes gave his rendition of “Umagang Kay Ganda” as background. The song is a personal favorite of Roxas because the lyrics talked about the happiness of being together and that waking up with each other would always make a beautiful morning.

In his homily, Fr. Carmelo Caluag told the couple that their wedding was an opportunity to begin anew, heal all wounds and correct past mistakes.

“I believe that giving one’s self to love brings blessing to one’s self and to society,” he said.

At the end of the matrimonial ceremony, the couple kissed for 11 seconds as Basil Valdez sang his classic “Ngayon at Kailanman.”

Who’s who

The wedding was attended by the who’s who in the Philippine society. Former President Joseph Estrada and Vice President Noli de Castro led the guests from the political sector while Kris Aquino-Yap, whose son James Jr. was ring bearer, came with other showbiz personalities.

Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III, the presidential bet of the Liberal Party and running mate of Roxas, was one of the sponsors. Representatives from various political organizations and non-government organizations were also among the guests.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Roxas and Sanchez Exchange "I do’s"

Roxas and Sanchez Exchange "I do’s"
INQUIRER.net
By: Maila Ager
October 27, 2007

MANILA, Philippines — Senator Manuel Roxas II and ABS-CBN anchor Korina Sanchez finally walked down the aisle and exchange “I do’s” Tuesday at the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City.

Sanchez, 45, beaming in a white Filipiniana terno, walked toward the altar with her brothers Milano and Mickey Sanchez as the world-renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers sang “Ave Maria.”

Clad in barong tagalog, Roxas was accompanied by his mother, Judy.

"I take you as God's special gift. I love you as you are," said Roxas, 52, as he exchanged vows with Sanchez.

For her part, Sanchez said Roxas was the "fulfillment" of her heart's desire, describing him as an ally and a friend.

"Ikaw ang katuparan ng lahat ng aking hinhintay at minimithi ng aking puso na makakasama, karamay, kaibigan at kakampi,” Sanchez said. “Dumaan man ang unos, ang mga pagsubok, ang sakit at kabiguan, ako ay mananatiling dikit sa iyong piling."

Jaro Archbishop Angel Lagdameo, who together with more than 10 Catholic bishops and priests officiated the two-hour concelebrated mass, officially pronounced them husband and wife shortly before 6 p.m.

Hundreds of guests—relatives, friends, politicians, dignitaries, celebrities—came to witness the much-awaited union of the high profile couple.

As early as 11 a.m., hundreds of people—including children—gathered outside the historic church to have a glimpse of the Roxas and Sanchez.

Like a movie star, Roxas, was mobbed by the crowd when he arrived at around 3:00 p.m.

Before proceeding inside the church, Roxas took time to shake hands with the people, who were chanting his name.

"Excited,” was how the senator, who is running for vice president in the 2010 polls, described his feelings about the wedding.

Roxas said he last talked with Sanchez Monday morning.

And just before the wedding, Roxas said he received a mobile text message from Sanchez saying, "Pray for me so I will not trip."

Just a few minutes after Roxas arrived, the well-wishers went wild again on seeing former president Joseph Estrada walking down the red carpet outside the church.

Some of the spectators, however, went to see popular TV host Kris Aquino, who arrived with his youngest son, baby James Jr. James served as ring bearer in the wedding.

Teresita Pancho, 62, said she came all the way from Pampanga just to see Roxas in person.

"Nagugutom na nga ako eh pero ‘di ko pa nakikita si Pareng Mar (I’m already hungry and I still haven’t seen Mar," said Pancho.

Aside from Estrada, other prominent politicians and personalities who came to witness the union were US ambassador Kristie Kenny, Vice President Noli de Castro, Chief Justice Reynato Puno, former Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban, former vice president Teofisto Guingona, Representatives Lorenzo Tanada III, Satur Ocampo, Teodoro Locsin, Neptali Gonzales, Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, former senator Franklin Drilon, former congressman Florencio "Butch" Abad, and Pepeng Cojuangco.

Also in attendance were actress Gretchen Barreto and live-in partner Tony Boy Cojuangco, actor and television host Richard Gomez, and celebrity beauty doctor Vicky Belo.

Paolo Zaldarriaga, Roxas’ son from past relationship, served as his best man, while the maid of honor is the bride's close friend, Dang Cecilio-Palanca.

The principal sponsors are Senator Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III, Supreme Court Chief Justice Reynato Puno, former Senate president Jovito Salonga, ABS-CBN chairman and CEO Eugenio Lopez III, Roxas’ uncle Jorge Araneta, multi-awarded actress and philanthropist Rosa Rosal, Helen Costales, groom’s aunt Ruby Roxas, TV host Cecilia "Che-Che" Lazaro, and the groom's aunt Maria Flores.

The secondary sponsors are: (cord) Ria Roxas-Ojeda and Augusto Ojeda, (veil) Victoria Fores and Manuel Roxas, (candle) Juliana Valencia and Jorge Fores.

The bible and coin bearers are Mathew Garcia and Miguel Sanchez, respectively.

Anika Custodio, Ana Conchita Khouri, Saila Sanchez and Louise Tan served as flower girls.

Twelve are listed as bridesmaid, including news anchor Pinky Webb and ABS-CBN senior reporter Ging Reyes.

Mar, Korina Tie The Knot

Mar, Korina Tie The Knot
abs-cbnNEWS.com

October 27, 2009MANILA - In what has been dubbed as the political wedding of the year, Sen. Manuel 'Mar' Roxas II and broadcast journalist Korina Maria Sanchez tied the knot on Tuesday with well-wishers hoping for both a successful marriage and victory in next year's elections.

Roxas, 52, the vice-presidential candidate of the Liberal Party (LP), exchanged "I do's" with Sanchez, 45, one of the country's popular broadcast journalists, at the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City.

The ceremony was held with only 3 weeks left before the start of the filing of the certificate of candidacy for the May 2010 polls. Candidates can file their COCs from November 20 to 30.

The wedding, snippets of which were aired over ABS-CBN's free TV channel and its cable news channel, ANC, is expected to further boost the popularity ratings of Roxas and the LP standard-bearer, Sen. Benigno 'Noynoy' Aquino III, who served as one of the "ninongs," replacing his late mother, former President Corazon Aquino.

The outpouring of sympathy for Mrs. Aquino, the Philippines' democracy icon, following her death last August 1 due to colon cancer, later prompted Roxas to give up his presidential bid in favor of her only son, Noynoy.

Bishops and oppositionists

Leading the who’s who in the Roxas-Sanchez wedding were Catholic bishops from Luzon and Visayas, including outgoing Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) President Angel Lagdameo, who was the main celebrant of the Holy Mass.

Lagdameo has been a vocal critic of the Arroyo administration on issues such as human rights violations and corruption.

He was assisted by Antipolo Bishop Gabriel Reyes, retired bishops Jesus Varela and Raul Martirez and nine other priests. Varela is bishop emeritus of Sorsogon while Martirez is bishop emeritus of Antique.

Among the principal sponsors was Supreme Court Chief Justice Reynato Puno, with former Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban as one of the offerors (wine and chalice).

LP stalwart and former Senate President Jovito Salonga, ABS-CBN top honcho Eugenio Lopez III and Roxas’s uncle, Jorge Araneta, were the other male principal sponsors.

Their counterparts were philanthropist Rosa Rosal, Roxas’ aunts Ruby Roxas and Maria Fores, multi-awarded journalist Cecilia “Che Che” Lazaro, and Helen Costales, best friend of Sanchez’s late mother.

Happiness and victory in 2010

Victor Ziga, an LP stalwart from Bicol, wished the couple that "they will always be happy--and victory, victory next year."

Former Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, one of the Cabinet members who turned against President Arroyo following the "Hello, Garci" scandal in 2005, expressed hope that the Roxas-Sanchez marriage would "bring good wishes to all of us and the Philippines."

Sister Mary John Mananzan, an activist nun, said the Roxas-Sanchez nuptial was not a simple wedding. "Ito'y parang simbolo na kung papano sana magkakatulungan ang mga tao para mabago ang bayan," she said.

The Aquino-Roxas tandem is being promoted as a team backed by volunteers who want change and good governance.

Family friend Ching Montinola wished that the could would "live happily ever after," and for Aquino to win next year's presidential elections.

A boost to survey ratings

Their friends and supporters downplayed the view that the wedding was meant to further boost the tandem's chances in next year's elections.

The latest survey of the Social Weather Stations (SWS) conducted September 18-21 showed both Aquino and Roxas leading their opponents by a comfortable margin.

"Kilala ko naman kasi si Mar at si Korina. Sigurado naman ako na they love each other [I know Mar and Korina, and I'm sure that they love each other," said Joel Rocamora, a leader of party-list group, Akbayan, which is supporting the Aquino-Roxas ticket. Akbayan party-list Rep. Risa Hontiveros will be one of the LP's senatorial candidates.

"Walang gimmick at walang tamang panahon sa tunay na nagmamahalan," said former Civil Service Commission chief Karina Constantino-David, now a leader of the Former Senior Government Officials (FSGO), a group critical of Arroyo's bad governance.

UP Prof. Randy David, another Arroyo critic, described the wedding as "very simple" for a celebrity couple.

Salonga, a close friend of Mar's father, the late Sen. Gerardo “Gerry” Roxas, wished the couple "all the best so that they may become happy every moment of their life."

Opposition leader Joseph Estrada, who will be one of Aquino's rival in next year's polls, said his "friendship with Noynoy and Sen. Roxas is beyond politics...we are good friends."

ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corp. President Charo Santos-Concio urged the couple to "keep the fire burning," while ABS-CBN Corp. CEO Eugenio 'Gabby' Lopez III said he hoped Roxas and Sanchez would start a family.Wedding vows

The senator and Sanchez wrote their own vows.

In his wedding vow, Roxas described his bride as "God's precious gift."

"Korina, I take you as God's precious gift. I love you as you are. You are precious to me. I am happy we are together and truly thank you for taking me and putting up with me. I give myself to you as your best friend, to applaud when you succeed and encourage when you stumble. I offer myself to you as your husband in respect and in trust. Today I take you to be my wife. I promise to be with you and be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health. I will love and honor you all the days of my life," he said.

In turn, Sanchez said Roxas was the fulfillment of everything she ever wanted in a husband.

"Minamahal kong Mar, matagal ang panahong lumipas na tayo ay nagsarili ng landas at naghintay ng pagkakataong ito. Tayo ngayon ay pinagpala ng tadhana at ng Panginoon na mahanap ang isa't isa. Totoo pala na ang pangarap ay nagaganap. Ikaw ang katuparan ng lahat ng aking hinintay at minimithi ng aking puso na maging kasama, karamay, kaibigan at kakampi. Ikaw ang aking pinili upang alayan ng lahat ng iyong kakailanganin sa isang kasama at katabi sa buhay sa abot ng aking makakaya. Dumaan man ang unos, mga pagsubok, ang sakit, ang kabiguan, ako ay mananatiling dikit sa iyong dibdib kahawak ng mahigpit ng iyong mga kamay. Ngunit sabay din tayong lalakbay sa landas na itinahak ng Panginoon sa atin. Magkasama tayong ngingiti, tatawa, hahalakhak sa malaki man na tagumpay at sa pinakamababaw na biro. "Mar, ang pangako ko sa iyo, saksi ang aking mga yumaong magulang na si Celia at Ramon, katuwang ng aking buong pamilya at lahat ng nagmamahal sa ating dalawa, basbas ng langit ang aking pagmamahal sa iyo at kasama ng Panginoon kahapon, ngayon at bukas, ako'y iyong-iyo."
The more than 2,000 guests inside the church applauded as the two exchanged vows. But they gave the loudest cheer when Roxas kissed his wife.

'Giving one's self to society'

The wedding ceremony started at 4 p.m. Tuesday as thousands of guests and well-wishers arrived to witness the union.

Crowds outside the church cheered and shouted "Korina!" as Sanchez, wearing a Filipiniana gown, stepped out of the bridal car. A white sheet held up by several ushers prevented people from seeing Sanchez until the start of her bridal march.

The Philippine Madrigal Singers sang “Ave Maria” as the entourage marched toward the altar.

As she was walking down the aisle with his brother, Sanchez shed tears of joy while Ray An Fuentes' “Umagang Kay Ganda” was being played in the background. Roxas, who was waiting at the altar, was also seen wiping away tears.

In his homily, Fr. Tito Caluag reminded the couple to love and serve one another throughout their married lives. "I believe that giving one's self to love brings blessing to one's self and to society," he said.

Who's who

A veritable who’s who of Philippine society attended the wedding ceremony. Political and show business personalities as well as representatives from various political organizations and non-government organizations were invited to the event.

Among those spotted at the church were fashion designer Pitoy Moreno, Paeng Nepomuceno, Vehnee Saturno, Bayan Muna Rep. Satur Ocampo, Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno, Basil Valdez, Wilson Tieng of Solar Films, former Senator Letty Ramos Shahani, former socioeconomic planning secretary Ralph Recto, Lily Monteverde, Makati Rep. Teodoro Locsin, US Ambassador Kristie Anne Kenney, Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri and his wife;

Broadcasters Bernadette Sembrano, Ina Reformina, Willard Cheng, Alex Santos, Ted Failon, Joey Villarama, Julius and Christine Babao, and Doris Bigornia, former Senate President Franklin Drilon, Congressmen Teofisto Guingona III, Antonio Cuenco and Neptali Gonzales, Lopez family patriarch Oscar Lopez, Ayala Corp.'s Fernando Zobel, Rizal Gov. Casimiro Ynares III and wife;

Jacqui Aquino, Maurice Arcache, Viel Aquino, Joselito Payumo, Joey Lina, Lauren Dyogi, Greggy Araneta and wife Irene Marcos-Araneta, Renato Constantino and Karina Constantino-David, Sister Mary John Mananzan, and Rodolfo “Jun” Lozada.

White and Filipiniana

White roses and sampaguita, Sanchez's favorite flowers, adorned the church. Sponsors and guests wore Filipiniana attires.

Fans and supporters of the couple also gathered in church ground to get a glimpse of the bride and groom.

Roxas’ 16-year-old son, Paolo Zaldarriaga, stood as the senator’s best man, while Dang Cecilio-Palance was the matron of honor.

The ring bearer was Kris Aquino’s son, James Yap Jr., while Miguel Sanchez and Matthew Garcia were the coin and Bible bearers.
'Like bungee jumping'

In their earlier interviews on radio dzMM, both Sanchez and Roxas could not contain their excitement. "Hindi na yata mapipigilan ito," Sanchez said.

"Parang bungee jumping. Para siyang isang malalim na malalim na talon tapos hindi mo talaga matitiyak kung ano ang kala-landingan mo. Pero dahil mahigpit ang pagkakatali sa iyong binti ng lubid ng pagmamahal, alam mong ligtas ka na la-landing…. it's really a very exciting adventure," Sanchez added.

The senator, for his part, said he felt both tense and excited after waking up on Tuesday, knowing that he would be a married man at the end of the day.

"Ang unang agenda sa abot kaya ng panahon at tuhod ko ay magkaroon ng mga anak...Ang sarap isipin na sana may mga chikiting kami at nakaupo kami sa sofa. Nai-imagine ko ‘yong Sunday lunch na magkasama kami at mga anak namin at mga apo sana. Komportableng-komportable ‘yong imahe sa puso ko at sa kaisipan ko. Kaya dumating na 'This is it!'" he said.

There will be no grand reception after the ceremony. The senator from Capiz and the veteran broadcast anchor of ABS-CBN decided to donate the money to 6 charity organizations providing assistance to victims of typhoons “Ondoy” and “Pepeng.”

After the ceremony, the couple met their guests in the church's courtyard where food and refreshments will be served.

Reports said more than 200 police were deployed in the area to maintain peace and order.

With reports from Ces Drilon, ABS-CBN News; Reyma Buan-Deveza and Boy Villasanta, abs-cbnNEWS.com, and ANC.

Mar, Korina Exchange 'I do's' Today

Mar, Korina Exchange 'I do's' Today
The Philippine Star
By: Joanne Rae Ramirez
October 27, 2009


Undated photos show Sen. Mar Roxas and Korina Sanchez as toddlers: ‘Whatever happens in the future, it is Korina who is with me and we’ll go through it together.’

MANILA, Philippines - After five years together, a two-day postponement (from Oct. 25 to 27), two-life altering events (a political decision and a super typhoon), Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas and broadcast journalist Korina Sanchez walk down the aisle of the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City today before some 2,000 guests in what has long been touted as the “Wedding of the Year.”

The Roxas-Sanchez nuptials unite high society with the working middle class, politics and show business, the newsmaker and the news reporter. And despite bets (mostly from women) that it wouldn’t push through, tales of disapproval and political strategizing (mostly from men), the wedding unfolds in what the groom describes as the beginning of “a great adventure.”

Roxas says no one knows what the future will bring, “what and where every twist and turn will be, what the peaks and troughs are, what the surprises will be.”

“The only certainty is magkasama naming haharapin ang lahat na ito (we will face all this together),” Roxas, 52, who has a 15-year-old son Paolo Gerardo, told The STAR. Paolo will be his father’s best man.

“I’m looking forward to it. It’s like starting off on a great adventure with a traveling companion, someone I want to be with,” Roxas added. “The adventure is not in what we’ll see or encounter but that whatever it is, it is Korina who is with me and we’ll go through it together.”

The “adventure” will begin with an eight-day honeymoon in Japan after the wedding.

Sanchez, 45, who will wear a Pepito Albert wedding gown of embroidered piña that she will accent with antique tambourine brooches belonging to her late mother Celia, told The STAR that for Roxas, she is ready to say goodbye to her 25-year career in broadcast journalism.

“As I have agreed to marry, I am even closer to saying goodbye to my 25-year career in news. I will continue doing Rated K but hard-core journalism may have to wait a while before I can get back to it. This is a very serious matter for me and a difficult decision to have made. Mar knows how much I love him,” she said.

Roxas gave up his presidential bid just over a month ago to give way to Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III, one of today’s principal sponsors. They are running under the Liberal Party, to which their late fathers, Senators Gerardo Roxas and Benigno Aquino Jr., respectively, belonged.

Aside from Aquino, the sponsors are Chief Justice Reynato Puno, former Senate president Jovito Salonga, ABS-CBN president Eugenio Lopez III, Jorge Araneta, Red Cross governor Rosa Rosal, broadcast journalist Cheche Lazaro, Ruby Roxas, Baby Fores and Helen Costales.

Aside from her mother’s brooches, Sanchez will wear one of her late father Ramon’s cufflinks “somewhere on my body.” She says she will miss her parents, “who came from families of meager means but worked hard and well to afford the good life they gave us, their children.”

“My parents will be part of this ceremony, no matter what,” Sanchez vowed.

Sanchez admitted that having been an independent-minded journalist and commentator, adjusting to the role of political wife would not be easy. “I’ve never liked politics, I like it even less now that I am so close to it. So marrying into politics is not a prospect I particularly savor.”

But she is entering into the marriage with eyes wide open, saying, “I am aware of whom I said yes to marrying. I think he also is aware of who he has asked to marry him.”

Due to the devastation wrought on the country a month ago by tropical storm “Ondoy,” the couple has decided to forgo a reception at the Araneta Coliseum and instead donate the money earmarked for the reception to rehabilitation efforts.

In a daze

Roxas, who had withdrawn from the presidential race to give way to Aquino, has always said that matters of the heart were separate from politics when speculations floated that his wedding might also be called off.

“Ask me tomorrow about how I feel,” Roxas said as he admitted he was in a daze.

Yesterday afternoon, Roxas and Aquino swore in to the LP local executives from Cavite led by Gov. Erineo “Ayong” Malicsi, who were previously allied with the administration and the LP group led by Environment Secretary Lito Atienza.

The Filipiniana-themed wedding at the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City at 3 p.m. is expected to gather the who’s who in politics and show business as well as representatives from various political organizations, non-government organizations and communities.

“We can sacrifice our dream wedding. What’s important is that we’re finally getting married,” said Sanchez, whose matron of honor will be Dang Cecilio-Palanca.

The ring bearer will be actress Kris Aquino’s son, James Yap Jr., while Miguel Sanchez and Matthew Garcia will be the coin and Bible bearers, respectively.

Aquino quipped during the program for the swearing in of Cavite leaders that he was at first reluctant to be the godfather of Roxas and Sanchez because “I would like to be married too” someday.

He said there was a traditional Filipino belief that single men who become sponsors at a wedding would remain bachelors. Roxas said it was not true because he stood as sponsor in many weddings before he himself decided to marry.

Aquino told reporters he could not say no to his friends Roxas and Sanchez and agreed to stand as sponsor in place of his mother, the late President Corazon Aquino.

Aquino, an ex-boyfriend of Sanchez, said he had not yet prepared a gift for his godchildren and that he was happy for them.

He said there would probably be no need for him to give any advice as godfather because “the two are not having any problems.”

Aquino said he would like to have his own family too but at the moment his engagement was to the people and marriage would have to wait.

Meanwhile, Malacañang wished Roxas and Sanchez good luck in their new life as a married couple. – With Aurea Calica, Paolo Romero

Korina Gets MAR-ried!

Korina Gets MAR-ried!
The Philippine Star
PEOPLE
By: Joanne Rae M. Ramirez
October 27, 2009


All roads lead today to the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City, for the much-awaited wedding of Sen. Mar Roxas and Korina Sanchez. Because of who they are, the twists and turns in their romance and in Mar’s political roadmap, the wedding will have far more than its 15 minutes. It will be part history, part tsismis; part telenovela, part prime-time news.

Once, bogged down by wedding preparations and jitters, Korina texted me: “For you it is a story. But to me, it is my wedding.”

She’s probably dreamt of her wedding day since she was old enough to appreciate Cinderella. Now, a successful and independent woman who was prepared to be happy for the rest of her life even without a man (till Mar came into her life and proposed), she is excited and blissfully happy.

She planned her wedding like it were a TV special —seamless and unforgettable. Then Ondoy struck and Korina has had to make adjustments, giving up the reception and some “me” time in order to do relief work in Marikina for flood victims. But after her civic duties — and she is prepared to do more in the future — it was back to make sure the wedding was how she dreamt it to be.

“As you know well, I am, indeed, a hands-on person. I am an executive producer by profession and it is always my job to put things together. I also have a creative side and it is an itch I constantly have to scratch — to create. Mar, from the very beginning, told me that this wedding is my show. The look of the wedding was under my guidance although with the approval and collaboration of Mar’s mom, Tita Judy (because majority of the guests are from their side’s much larger universe) and his cousin Margarita (who is the family chef and florist).

“I wanted an old Filipino look. We chose mostly Filipino flowers — rosals, sampaguitas, camelias. For the tables at the reception (both in Sto. Domingo Church’s courtyard and in the Araneta compound in Cubao), I put together pukpok silver and Venetian mirrors, which Pampanga specializes in making; old wooden candelabras; and my collection of old virinas (gasera lamps). Margarita found these beautiful wood cutout or lace wooden lamps in Bacolod, which we will use for the merienda at the church.

“I was specific about the misalette. Rosanna Fores helped me with designing the ceremony and suggested the readings while Gina Godinez, over wine and cheese, helped us in choosing the music. I love the songs we chose. Of course, I also collaborated with Patrice Diaz on the look of the entourage. I love the stuff she made. I am also very impressed with how Randy Ortiz did the barongs. I was wondering how else to decorate a barong. But, wow, he did it so well. Mar loves his barong from Randy. So, yes, I am a hands-on bride. I guess all brides ought to be.”

But now, as I interview her over the phone as she rests at the Presidential Suite of the Hotel InterContinental, Manila (where she will dress up for the wedding and where Mr. and Mrs. Mar Roxas will spend their first night as man and wife), Korina is relaxed and bubbly. She raves about her wedding cake. “Heny Sison did a great job with the cake. I’ve never seen intricate callado design on a cake! Beautiful.”

The much-photographed Korina chose Robbie Pinera to help her with her makeup, while Robbie’s friend Raymond will do her hair, which will be pulled back and up for the wedding. Edgar Santos, her makeup artist friend from Beverly Hills, is in town and will be with her just to put her lashes on! “O, diba? Spoiled ako sa kaniya!” she gushes.

Korina also handpicked the wedding singers. “The singers I chose for special parts are not superstars but some of the best singers in the industry. They will be singing with the Philippine Madrigal Singers who have been so sweet and thoughtful in our planning process. The Manila Philharmonic Orchestra is donating to us their performance with a 30-man ensemble! They tell me they so believe in Mar so they want to help out. Our celebrity singers are also not charging us. I love them! Mar and I are so grateful and happy.”

Mar and Korina are composing their own wedding vows. Though they are going to be one before God and man, Korina has told Mar that the two of them should not “erode” their core as they blend with each other’s world.

“I’ve always consciously decided I am a journalist and a commentator. So, you see, as I witness what goes on around me it is difficult not to see things for what they really are. It is difficult not to comment, too, torture! But I must learn this, for Mar’s sake. One thing, though, that I have told Mar is that I would never want to compromise who and what I have come to be or have come to believe in so much as to erode my core. I think of myself as a public servant, but never a politician. I’ve requested him to keep me from putting up with some things I cannot take. He has been respectful of this naman.”

They will fly to Japan after the wedding, but it will be a shortened honeymoon because Mar has to fly back to Manila for work. To appease his bride, Mar has promised her a longer honeymoon in December and Korina is as excited for it as a teenaged bride.

Mar told Korina the wedding is her show, but I am giving him the last word in this article. What kind of spouse do you hope and pray to be, I asked Mar.

“Someone Korina will always love and respect and be proud of.”

Piña Bridal Gown For Korina

Piña Bridal Gown For Korina
Philippine Daily Inquirer
By: Larry Leviste, Philip Tubeza
October 27, 2009


MANILA, Philippines—As they walk down the aisle Tuesday afternoon at three, the groom will be cool and looking forward to a honeymoon even in the heating-up campaign season, and the bride will cut a sexy silhouette in a mermaid-style Filipiniana gown with a five-meter cathedral train.

And deviating from the norm, the bride will wear no veil.

Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas II, the Liberal Party vice presidential candidate, will marry TV broadcaster Korina Sanchez at Catholic rites on Tuesday at Santo Domingo Church in Quezon City.

About 3,000 guests are expected to pack the vast church, which has been heavily barricaded as early as Sunday.

“Sa totoo lang, e talagang buong-buo ang loob ko at isang tulog na lang mapopormal na ang aming ‘pag-iisang dibdib (Truth is, I’m all set to formalize our union),” Roxas said. “We’ll go on honeymoon and enjoy ourselves before we go back to work.”

Serpentina-style

Sanchez will wear a serpentina-style gown by Pepito Albert, one of Manila’s most talented yet low-profile designers.

It is made of yards of hand-embroidered piña, which Albert also designed. Flowing vines, leaves, curlicues and tiny flowers are traced in discreet flat sequins for sparkle.

The gown is empire-cut, with gently draped bust line, with panels that hew close to the body but gently flaring at the knee to flow into a mermaid tail.

The five-meter cathedral train is gathered at her lower hips, also hand-embroidered with fine beadwork.

It will be strapless, with a very small modern panuelo.

Loose French twist

The bride’s hair will be swept up like a loose French twist, adorned with a golden paineta (decorative comb).

Several small brooches on her wedding dress were made from components of her late mother’s gold tambourine necklaces. Some were fashioned into gold earrings—the only jewelry Sanchez will wear.

“Then we decided, it didn’t need a wedding veil,” Albert said. This nontraditional detail was considered so that the line from head to toe will have a faultless flow.

Sanchez will carry a cascading bouquet by Roxas’ cousin, Margarita Fores, consisting of camias, dahlias and sampaguitas. Her bridal shoes were designed by Cesar Gaupo, made also of ecru piña with gold tambourine buckle. Robbie Pinera will do the bride’s makeup.

Sanchez’s three brothers, who will give her away, will be in stylized barong by Randy Ortiz, who is also doing Roxas’ barong.

Father’s inspiration

True to the Filipiniana motif, Roxas will wear an organza camisa chino under the piña barong. It has the tiny geometric embroidery on the front inspired by the 1950s barong favored by his father, the late Sen. Gerry Roxas.

Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III, the LP presidential candidate and one of the principal sponsors, declined to give an advice to the betrothed couple, saying that their relationship is fine.

“I think they have no problems. They’re doing the right thing and [today] will mark a beginning. I think [an unsolicited] advice is unnecessary because they’re doing OK,” he said.

Roxas said he and Sanchez decided to choose Aquino because the senator’s mother, former President Corazon Aquino, who died on Aug. 1, was one of their original sponsors.

“And it’s also good since he’s going to be my boss once he becomes president,” Roxas added.

Ninong Noynoy

Aquino said he was making an exception when he accepted the offer to become one of the wedding sponsors. He explained there was a belief among Filipinos that single men who agree to be a wedding sponsor would have a hard time getting married.

“But I also want to get married,” Aquino said.

“I just couldn’t say no to Mar, but I don’t really accept offers to become a wedding sponsor because I also want to be married,” he said, while jesting that it would feel awkward hearing Korina and Mar addressing him as “ninong”

“It feels like 10 years was added to your age.” Aquino again joked. “[Today], I will follow in his footsteps because I’m a sponsor and Mar will walk [down the aisle] first.”

Monday, October 26, 2009

Magazine Alert : Metro Weddings

Korina Sanchez Wears A Bridal Gown For The First Time In Metro Weddings
abs-cbn.com
Showbuzz
by: Napoleon Quintos
October 25, 2009

Veteran broadcaster Korina Sanchez is set to marry Senator Mar Roxas on October 27, but before the event dubbed as ‘The Wedding of the Year,’ Korina dons different bridal gowns in a special issue of Metro Weddings Magazine now out in newsstands. Korina wears various elegant weddings dresses crafted by her fashion designers of choice Pepito Albert and Patrice Ramos-Diaz. Incidentally, Pepito designed her wedding gown for the big day while Patrice did the entourage. Korina also shared her love story with Mar and the journey that led them to the aisle with Metro Weddings. She even gave a few details of her honeymoon plans.

Two Honeymoons For Mar, Korina?

Two Honeymoons For Mar, Korina?
abs-cbnNEWS.com
October 25, 2009 MANILA – Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas II is keepingthe honeymoon plans under wraps for now.

Even his bride, broadcaster Korina Sanchez, admitted that the lawmaker wants to surprise her.

She told “The Buzz:” “Sinusorpresa niya ako. We’re just going on a short trip for now… then the longer trip, sa Christmas time na lang namin gagawin ‘yon. So, parang dalawa ang honeymoon ko.”

When pressed for details, Roxas, meantime, replied: “Secret. Siguro dito muna, one or two days.I-Twitter ko na lang kayo.”

The two will tie the knot on Tuesday at the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City.

The couple chose not to hold a grand reception at the Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, but instead donated the money to typhoon victims.

Sanchez said that the wedding mass is more important than the reception. However, the couple will hold a small "meet and greet" at the church courtyard, where refreshments and food will be served after the wedding ceremony.

Mar 'Very Excited' About Wedding With Korina

Mar 'Very Excited' About Wedding With Korina
The Philippine Star
By: Aurea Calica
October 25, 2009


MANILA, Philippines - Sen. Manuel Roxas II said yesterday he “is very excited” about his forthcoming wedding with broadcaster Korina Sanchez and would focus on it at the moment.

Speaking with reporters at the Senate press office where he served food and drinks and gamely answered “tough questions,” Roxas said he would like to enjoy first his upcoming marriage to Sanchez.

Roxas, who is already in his 50s, received a pair of briefs from male members of the Senate media, but he told them they got the wrong size.

He said he would make sure a “blooming” groom would be waiting for Sanchez at the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City on Tuesday.

“I am intoxicated with happiness,” he said, explaining that he didn’t need to drink to prepare for the wedding.

“As you can see, I have been laughing. I have no anxiety at all. This is what I want.”

He said he would want to have children with Sanchez, who would remain on leave from work being the wife of a candidate.

After the wedding, Roxas said he and Sanchez would go on a honeymoon but would immediately resume working.

Roxas said he and presidential bet Noynoy Aquino were working on the senatorial slate of their party and were quite certain they would be able to complete their line up.

He said six were already chosen while 20 others were being considered for the remaining six slots.

Roxas also welcomed the entry of his colleague Sen. Loren Legarda in the vice presidential race.

He also praised Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno for sacrificing his personal ambition in deciding to forego his vice presidential bid and instead concentrate on his work as a Cabinet official.

“Good luck, God bless, I wish you well in your endeavors” was his message to Legarda and Puno.

Roxas is gunning for the vice presidency as running mate of Aquino. He will be pitted against Legarda and Makati City Mayor Jejomar Binay.

He said he could not say much about his contenders but vowed to work hard not only to win but for Aquino to be president so they could pursue the reforms for the country.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Wedding Count Down

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Mar Steals A Kiss From Korina

Mar Steals A Kiss From Korina
abs-cbnNEWS.com
Report from : Ginger Conejero
October 21, 2009MANILA – Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas II has caught broadcaster Korina Sanchez by surprise when he unexpectedly kiss his fiancée during their wedding rehearsal at Sto. Domingo Church Tuesday night.

An excited Roxas explained that he could no longer wait for the big day. Roxas and Sanchez are set to exchange “I dos” on October 27.

The high-profile couple said they are happy that they will be able to share the most memorable day of their lives with people who “genuinely love us.”

Everything is set for the wedding ceremony.

Sanchez’s youngest sibling, Mickey, will give the bride away to the groom. The entourage is composed of their closest friends.

Eighteen big personalities from the public and private sectors will serve as godparents to Roxas and Sanchez.

Chief Justice Reynato Puno, ABS-CBN Chairman Eugenio "Gabby" Lopez III, former Senate President Jovito Salonga, and Roxas's running mate for the 2010 elections, Sen. Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III, will be their “ninongs.”

Aquino III, who is running for President next year, used to date Sanchez.

"Ninangs" for the wedding include actress Rosa Rosal; broadcast journalist Cheche Lazaro; Helen Costales, who is the best friend of Sanchez's mother; as well as Baby Fores and Ruby Roxas, both aunts of the groom.

Rosal has been a long-time advocate of blood donation for the Philippine National Red Cross, for which she has received various awards.

She reportedly turned emotional when asked about the upcoming wedding, and vowed she would "pray for the couple as long as she lives."

After his loss in the presidential elections in 1992, Salonga became an anti-corruption crusader and an advocate of reforms in the judiciary.

Puno recently waged a campaign for a moral force that would help elect clean and honest candidates in the May 2010 polls.

Thousands of people are expected to show up at Sto. Domingo Church to witness the ceremony.

The couple cancelled the planned grand reception at the Araneta Coliseum and decided instead to donate the money to the victims of Ondoy (Ketsana) and Pepeng (Parma).

However, the couple will hold a small "meet and greet" at the church courtyard, where refreshments and food will be served after the wedding ceremony.

Mar, Korina Reveal 'Ninongs, Ninangs'

Mar, Korina Reveal 'Ninongs, Ninangs'
abs-cbnNEWS.com
By: Niña Corpuz
October 20, 2009


MANILA - The Philippines' chief justice, prominent civic leaders, and ABS-CBN's chief executive officer (CEO) will be among the "ninongs and ninangs" or godparents at Sen. Manuel "Mar" Roxas II and Korina Sanchez's wedding.

The high-profile couple's "ninongs" are Chief Justice Reynato Puno, ABS-CBN Chairman Eugenio "Gabby" Lopez III, former Senate President Jovito Salonga, and Roxas's running mate for the 2010 elections, Sen. Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III.

Aquino III, who is running for President next year, used to date Sanchez.

"Ninangs" for the wedding include actress Rosa Rosal; broadcast journalist Cheche Lazaro; Helen Costales, who is the best friend of Sanchez's mother; as well as Baby Fores and Ruby Roxas, both aunts of the groom.

Rosal has been a long-time advocate of blood donation for the Philippine National Red Cross, for which she has received various awards.

She reportedly turned emotional when asked about the upcoming wedding, and vowed she would "pray for the couple as long as she lives."

After his loss in the presidential elections in 1992, Salonga became an anti-corruption crusader and an advocate of reforms in the judiciary.

Chief Justice Puno recently waged a campaign for a moral force that would help elect clean and honest candidates in the May 2010 polls.

Guidance

According to the Philippine Wedding website Kasal.com, 'ninongs' and 'ninangs' are "expected to serve as the couple's second parents or counselors especially when the newlyweds' parents are no longer there to guide them."

The page also cites Bride's Maids and Co's Veil as stating that the social status of the wedding is dictated by its line-up of principal sponsors.

"Hence, it is not surprising that prominent personalities are often asked to be a ninong or ninang", the page adds.

Church policy requires at least a pair of sponsors or witnesses and a maximum of 6.

'The faster, the better'

The bride and groom are reportedly feeling relaxed, even if their wedding is just 7 days away.

The couple plan to wed on October 27 at the Sto. Domingo Church in Manila.

Roxas told ABS-CBN News that they don't need to feel pressured because he and Sanchez "are no longer in high school," and they have been together for a while. "The faster, the better," he said.

The couple chose not to hold a grand reception at the Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, but instead donated money to typhoon victims.

Sanchez said that the wedding mass is more important than the reception. However, the couple will hold a small "meet and greet" at the church courtyard, where refreshments will be served after the wedding ceremony.

Roxas Takes Leave Of Absence From Politics To Focus On Wedding

Roxas Takes Leave Of Absence From Politics To Focus On Wedding
GMANews.TV
By : Amita O. Legaspi
October 20, 2009


Senator Manuel "Mar" Roxas II has taken a leave of absence from politics to focus on his upcoming wedding next week.

“Nagleave na ako sa pulitika last week pa. Nagpaalam ako kay Noynoy, nagpaalam ako sa partido ko, nagpaalam ako sa opisina ko (I took a leave of absence from politics since last week. I already told Senator Benigno Simeon Aquino III about it, I also notified the Liberal Party and my office)," he told reporters after turning over checks worth P2.2 million to six organizations for typhoon victims.

The amount was part of the P3 million originally for the reception expenses of his wedding with broadcaster Korina Sanchez on October 27.

“Pinakamalayo sa kaisipan ko ngayon ang pulitika, ang iniisip ko lang ang aming kasal (Politics is the farthest from my mind now, I’m focusing on our wedding)," Roxas said.

The wedding will be held at the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City. In lieu of the reception, the couple will be serving refreshments and pandesal after the ceremony.

At least 2,000 people including political and show business personalities as well as representatives from various organizations and communities are expected to attend the wedding.

The couple will also be hosting a separate dinner for their entourage.

Among the principal sponsors are Chief Justice Reynato Puno, Liberal Party chairman emeritus Jovito Salonga, ABS-CBN chairman and chief executive officer Eugenio Lopez III, Roxas’ uncle George Araneta and LP presidential bet Senator Aquino.

Roxas said Noynoy will be taking the place of his mother, former President Corazon Aquino, who died on August 1 after almost a year of battle with colon cancer.

“Sa totoo lang noong hindi pa pumapanaw si Tita Cory, Tita Cory was one of our ninangs (Before Tita Cory died, we have already chosen her as one of our principal sponsors)," the senator said.

Also included in their list of principal sponsors are Philippine National Red Cross Governor Rosa Rosal; broadcaster Cheche Lazaro; Helen Costales, best friend of Sanchez’s mother; Ruby Roxas; and Baby Araneta-Fores.

The senator’s 16-year-old son, Paolo, will be his best man.

Roxas said they made the decision to forego a grand reception for the wedding after seeing the plight of the people affected by typhoons ‘Ondoy’ and ‘Pepeng’.

He said their respective families were initially shocked with their decision.

“Ang sabi nila ‘Ano 'yan kasal na walang reception?’ ang sabi namin ‘Oo, e di after the church uwian na (They were telling us ‘What, a wedding without a reception’ and we told them ‘Yes, we’ll go home after the wedding’)," Roxas said.

He added, “Ako naman bilang groom ginagawa ko lang ito bilang maganda, mabongga for the bride. Kung mismong yung bride nagsasabi na kawawa ang mga tao e OK lang sa akin. Yung kagaanan ng bulsa, naging kagaanan ng puso (I’m just doing this for my bride. If the bride says that the people need the money more than we do, then it’s OK with me)."

The P2.2 million was given to the following relief organizations:

• Caritas Philippines, P500,000;
• PNRC – P250,000 for its National Blood Service and P250,000 for its storm "Ondoy" account;
• GMA Kapuso Foundation, P500,000;
• Igan Foundation, P100,000;
• ABS-CBN Foundation Kapamilya Shower Na Project, P100,000; and
• ABS-CBN Foundation Sagip Kapamilya, P500,000.

Mar, Korina Donate P2.2M For Relief Op

Mar, Korina Donate P2.2M For Relief Op
abs-cbnNEWS.com

October 20, 2009MANILA – Sen. Manuel Roxas II and broadcaster Korina Sanchez on Tuesday donated a total of P2.2 million to six organizations for continued relief assistance to thousands of people affected by tropical storms Ondoy (Ketsana) and Pepeng (Parma).

In a press statement, the engaged couple announced that the P2.2 million was given to Caritas Philippines (P500,000), ABS-CBN Foundation Sagip Kapamilya (P500,000), GMA Kapuso Foundation (P500,000), Philippine National Red Cross – National Blood Service (P250,000), Philippine National Red Cross (P250,000), Igan Foundation (P100,000), and ABS-CBN Foundation Kapamilya Shower Na Project (P100,000).

The money was supposed to be spent for the planned grand reception at the Araneta Coliseum after the wedding ceremony at the Sto. Domingo Church on October 27.

Roxas and Sanchez decided to cancel the big reception and donate the amount instead to groups involved in relief assistance to Ondoy and Pepeng’s victims.

“Instead of spending for the reception at Araneta Coliseum as planned, Mar and I agreed to donate the amount set aside for it to various charity organizations taking care of evacuees and victims of typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng,” Sanchez said.

“Matagal nga naming pinlano ni Korina at pinaghandaan ang espesyal na araw na ito. Gusto sana namin na marami ang kasalo sa saya. Pero parang hindi tama na malaki ang gagastusin sa selebrasyon sa panahon ng kalamidad. Napakarami nating kababayan ang naghihirap ngayon – lubog sa tubig-baha. Pakikiramay at pagtulong na rin namin ito sa kanila,” Roxas said.

Monday, October 19, 2009

'Umagang Kay Ganda' for Mar & Korina

'Umagang Kay Ganda' for Mar & Korina
The Philippine Star
NEW BEGINNINGS

By Bum D. Tenorio, Jr.
October 18, 2009
When Korina Sanchez walks down the aisle aisle of Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City on Oct. 27 at 3 p.m., her three brothers — EG, Milano and Mickey — will give her away to her groom, Sen. Mar Roxas.

The air of romance will further be enhanced as the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra plays “Umagang Kay Ganda,” originally sung in 1979 by Tillie Moreno and Ray-an Fuentes, when Korina meets Mar by the altar. The song, a favorite of Mar, will also be sung at the wedding recessional by the choir, the UP Madrigal Singers.

The members of the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra are donating their service fee for Mar’s vice presidential campaign.

There will be six bishops to celebrate the wedding with Fr. Tito Caluag S.J. delivering the homily. As of press time, names of the bishops are still being finalized. The matrimonial Mass will be said in Tagalog.

Singer Basil Valdez has just committed himself to sing during communion.

As earlier reported, Korina will wear a Pepito Albert wedding gown. Mar will don a Barong Tagalog by Randy Ortiz. The female entourage will be in gowns by Patrice Ramos-Diaz while the male entourage will be in Barong Tagalogs, also by Randy Ortiz.

Filipiniana is the motif of the wedding. Ecru is the color motif.

There will be five pairs of principal sponsors, mostly family members of the bride and groom. Mar and Korina only made public their relationship in 2004 after he won the Senate polls by a staggering 19 million votes.

Mar’s 15-year-old son Paolo will be the Best Man while Dang Cecilio-Palanca, a very good friend of Korina, will be the Matron of Honor.

Baby James Yap, son of Kris and James Yap, will be the Ring Bearer, while Miguel Sanchez will be the Coin Bearer.

The First Reading will be read by Ted Failon while the Second Reading by Elay Antonino. The Prayers of the Faithful will be read by Margarita “Gaita” Fores, Mar’s first cousin.

After the 3 p.m. wedding at the Sto. Domingo Church, there will be no more reception. Instead, the couple will meet and greet their visitors who will instead be treated to refreshments and sandwiches in the church. Well-wishers from the public who will attend the wedding will be given a slice of butter cake from Goldilocks.

As reported by STAR entertainment editor Ricky Lo last Wednesday, the reception would have had 10,000 people in attendance, coming from all walks of life, eating the same food and treated to a short program of love songs. But with typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng plaguing the country, the couple decided to go on with the wedding but cancel the reception. Instead of just focusing on her wedding, Korina was said to be busy with relief work for the typhoons’ victims.

The traditional despedida de soltera was also canceled. It took seven months to plan for the wedding of Mar and Korina.

However, a source said, about 150 guests — family members of the bride and groom and their closest of closest friends — will troop to Bahay na Puti, the Araneta ancestral home in Cubao, for dinner. The entrée for dinner is reportedly typical Filipino food like caldereta, kare-kare and lechon to be prepared by Gaita Fores.

It will simply be an intimate dinner at the Bahay na Puti. No band, no fireworks at the simple reception. The love between Korina and Mar, perhaps, is enough to provide them the music that will last them a lifetime. And with love as the basis of their relationship, that’s enough pyrotechnics to light their romance — in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, till death do them part.

Gaita is also doing the flower arrangements both in the church and at the Bahay na Puti. Expect only rosal and sampaguita as the blooms in focus of the day.

The bride’s makeup artist and hair stylist have not yet been identified. Another source said Korina, who is very hands-on about her wedding, is still “conducting trial makeup.” The choice of bridal car has also not yet been finalized.

The table centerpiece will consist of wooden candelabras carved by artisans from Pampanga. These candelabras will be festooned with rosal and sampaguita, too. The wedding giveaways, especially to the principal sponsors, are Venetian mirrors and jewelry boxes from Pampanga. Korina traces her roots to Pampanga.

The wedding cake is by Heny Sison. There will also be several photographers to document the event. Of course, ABS-CBN will be there to capture the solemnity and surprises of the affair. The invitation, worded in Tagalog, was done by Noky Gatmaitan of Printsonalities.

Korina Sanchez and Dang Cecilio-Palanca
Lights and sounds, including the logistics and security on Mar and Korina’s wedding day will be handled by Mike Miñana of Teamworks. Teamworks will also be present when the soon-to-be-betrothed-couple and their entourage hold a wedding rehearsal this coming Wednesday.

Wedding coordination is ably handled by Marichelle Ligon and her team at Bridesmaids and Company while overall production design of the wedding is by Gino Gonzalez.

Best wishes to Korina and Mar!

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Mar-Korina Wedding A Go; Reception Cancelled

Mar-Korina Wedding A Go; Reception Cancelled
abs-cbnNEWS.com
By: Reyma Buan-Deveza
October 13, 2009

MANILA - The wedding of Liberal Party vice-presidential bet Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas II and broadcast journalist Korina Sanchez will proceed as scheduled on October 27 at the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City.

The reception at the Araneta Coliseum, however, has been cancelled, the bride-to-be announced Tuesday.

“Instead of spending for the reception at Araneta Coliseum as planned, Mar and I agreed to donate the amount set aside for it to various charity organizations taking care of evacuees and victims of typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng,” Sanchez said in a press statement.

These charity groups are Caritas Manila, the Philippine National Red Cross, Sagip Kapamilya of ABS-CBN and Kapuso Foundation of GMA-7, among others.

After the Sto. Domingo rites, she said a private and simple wedding reception will take place at her soon-to-be-husband’s home.

"Para lang sa pamilya kasi mayroon pa akong pamilya na uuwi. And for the entourage siguro, merienda na lang sa bahay. Kaysa naman sa hotel pa, mas matipid kung sa bahay na lang," she told abs-cbnNEWS.com.

Wedding invitations have already been sent out, according to Sanchez.

“We are hoping that our guests will understand why we are doing this. It really does not feel right to be celebrating - no matter how important this date is for Mar and I - at a time of calamity and difficulty for a large number of our kababayans.” she said.

In the same statement, Roxas said: “Matagal nga naming pinlano ni Korina at pinaghandaan ang espesyal na araw na ito. Gusto sana namin na marami ang kasalo sa saya. Pero parang hindi tama na malaki ang gagastusin sa selebrasyon sa panahon ng kalamidad. Napakarami nating kababayan ang naghihirap ngayon – lubog sa tubig baha. Pakikiramay at pagtulong na rin namin ito sa kanila.”

Sanchez, meantime, played down a wedding superstition that warns engaged couples against making too many changes in their wedding plans. The superstition considers it a bad omen.

The “Rated K” host maintained that it is more inappropriate if she and her fiancé push through with the reception at the Araneta Coliseum in the midst of massive devastation wrought by the two tropical storms.

The much talked about wedding of Sanchez and Roxas is the stuff of celebrity talk shows and entertainment columnists.

Political and show business personalities as well as representatives from various groups that are close to the couple have been invited to attend the wedding.

Tuloy Na Tuloy Ang Kasal!

Tuloy Na Tuloy Ang Kasal!
The Philippine Star
FUNFARE
By: Ricardo F. Lo
October 13, 2009

Not a deluge could make Sen./Vice Presidentiable Mar Roxas and his fiancée Korina Sanchez change their plan to get married not on Oct. 23 as originally reported but on Oct. 27. When Mar announced his decision to drop his plan to run for president in 2010 two months ago, people thought that he and Korina would postpone their wedding indefinitely or scrap it altogether, never mind if the well-publicized pamanhikan was already done with. The wedding is not co-terminus with Mar’s presidential ambition. But, according to Funfare’s Cubao-friendly DPA, “Because of the destruction wrought by Typhoon Ondoy, leaving thousands homeless and hundreds dead, they might ‘tone down’ the event.” The wedding will be held at the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City but, added the DPA, “The reception might have to be ‘streamlined’.” The good thing is that, tuloy ang ligaya; tuloy na tuloy ang kasal!