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Friday, March 29, 2024

Tales of the Paranormal

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Something bizarre happened one Halloween evening. We were on our way to the party hosted by haute couture designer Ito Curata in the grand manor he shares with partner Bob Miller when we found ourselves lost in transition in a dark road leading to the posh subdivision down South. At first, I was not conscious of our unusual state since I knew that the chauffer of my companion is very reliable (he’s hotel-trained after all) and has been to Bob and Ito’s residence on many occasions. We entered the gates of Ayala Alabang already when I noticed that he has led us to unknown territory. 

“Where are we?”, this columnist anxiously inquired. I was concerned since the street was strangely shady and narrow. I felt I was in a scene from The Twilight Zone. And then, I sensed something down my spine.  

“Death” guards the gate and tombstones
The enigmatic setting of the Halloween birthday bash

To my dear readers, to set the record straight, this Sunday’s column is not a horror story. When caught in a seemingly “paranormal” situation, everything (with a sigh of relief) can be explained:

  • I gathered myself and took charge of the situation. I checked Google Maps for our exact location. Indeed, we were lost and advised the driver to turn back since we entered the wrong gate.  
  • The car was heavily tinted and the sun visor was up on my side. In perspective, this made the road appear darker.   
  • The vehicle of Tina Cuevas (my “blooming” companion) is the top of the line. It has a back massage seat feature at the touch of a button. 
  • Lastly, to my young readers, please Google “The Twilight Zone.” 
    Jose Geffrey Candido who just graduated from the PMA and Jedi Joby Belmonte; Ann and Atty. Rene Puno as Cleopatra and Mark Anthony; Ladies in their full regalia- Svenja Wegfahrt, Manolyne Taylor, Gabriella Wegfahrt and Renee Puno

Edwin Medalla, Tina Jacinto, Elaine Rojas-Villar and Noy Anson; Ping Sotto, John Arcilla and Valerie Mayor Sotto

By now, I hope I got your complete attention (smile if you agree) with the subplot of this column.

Levity aside, nothing was creepy at all about the Halloween Bash organized by well-loved couturier Ito Curata on the occasion celebrating his 56th birthday. As a matter of fact, it was an absolutely happy occasion! 

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On a Saturday night, 60 of Itos friends joined the party and were very game as they all came in their Halloween regalia. To be honest, I felt a little underdressed with my costume compared to the noteworthy outfits (as seen in this column) donned by the guests composed of Manila’s movers and shakers. 

I seldom get out of my home to attend a social gathering on the eve of All Saints’ Day. However, this occasion was something close to my heart and I am glad that I decided to go. What welcomed me was a whimsical world filled with the kindest and most beautifully dressed people! Everyone elevated their game as seen in their creative costumes. It was a (happy) sight to behold!

French maid Malu Francisco with Rachel de Guzman; Mayenne Carmona; The “dragon” and Marie Antoinette at Ito Curata’s birthday bash
China doll Nikki Tang and Barbie doll Sheree Chua; Best in Costume awardee Suzette Hahn-Lopez aka “The Peacock”; Sitoy de Guzman as Zorro and March Geriene as a cowboy

The ever-creative Ito Curata and his son Taj were in similar costumes – in full “dragon” battle gear. They were not waging war, though as both graciously welcomed everyone in their (lavish) lair that was transformed into a fantasy world reminiscent of a (posh) mausoleum. 

Mind you, there is nothing freaky about the setting as everything was thematic and on point. From the tombstones and “Death” that welcomed us at the porte-cochère; the “Boo-ffet” of delicious food that filled everyone’s tummies; the flowing wine and bubbly that luxuriously hydrated us; to the endless helpings of hors d’oeuvres; and the giveaways in cute pumpkin containers. Ito Curata really knows how to throw the best parties in town!

If you don’t agree with me, see for yourself as evident in the images captured in this column. He even brought back to life “Heneral Luna” in the flesh! 

Bob Miller and Lilibeth Campos; Jon Snow is alive – Richardo Luis Puno; Czarina Ong-Camus, Helen Ong and Marian Ong-Nuguid
Happy Halloween from Glecy Mojares and Marivic Vazquez; The “Son of the Dragon” – Taj Curata; Little Red Riding Hood Victoria Turegun with Maleficent Tess Schoefer

In the meantime, I could not help but contemplate on “leveling-up” on next year’s Halloween bash.  

To moments filled with fun, laughter and endless parties. Cheers to you, Ito Curata! 

Follow me on Twitter or Instagram 

@francis_deleon8. 

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