Glamour, grit and giving back: Club Bulakeño’s 36th annual ball dazzles at Makati Shangri-La

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It was a night of pageantry and purpose as Club Bulakeño celebrated its 36th annual ball—an electrifying showcase of Filipino elegance, philanthropy and cultural pride.

Held at the grand Rizal Ballroom of the Makati Shangri-La, the event pulsed with style and substance. Gilded décor shimmered under soft lighting, while the air buzzed with anticipation. The crowd, adorned in dazzling Filipiniana couture, sipped champagne and traded stories beneath crystal chandeliers.

At the heart of the celebration was Dr. Rollin P. Tabuena, hailed as the King of Visayas, who took center stage in a cinematic tribute that brought guests to their feet. This wasn’t just an award—it was a celebration of legacy, leadership and service.

The evening honored trailblazers and changemakers across the country, crowned in a regal ceremony that balanced glamor with genuine emotion. Marcelo “Mars” B. Lambino joined Dr. Tabuena as King of Visayas, while a radiant court of queens—including Vivian Caramba, Bernz Dugan Crumbz, Cecille Bravo, and Barbie Anne Arcache—were honored for their grace, generosity and unwavering commitment to Club Bulakeño’s mission.

President Maru Go, ever poised and passionate, led the charge with visionary flair. Her dedication to community upliftment, alongside the steady support of Arnold Reyes, Jet Capina and Direk Raymond Villanueva, gave the event its beating heart. Villanueva’s artistic direction infused the night with cinematic polish—from the opening visuals to the finale of the coronation.

Guests were visions of modern Filipino sophistication, dressed by renowned designers Rafael González and Renée Magtibay Salud, whose couture creations celebrated heritage with contemporary edge. The aesthetic was elevated by Jeff Arevalo’s masterful photography and Roger Antonio’s signature makeup artistry, capturing every shimmer and silhouette with elegance.

But behind the glam was a deeper purpose: proceeds from the evening benefited Club Bulakeño’s Outreach Program and medical missions—efforts grounded in malasakit, the Filipino value of sincere compassion.

As the final notes of the night faded and the ballroom lights dimmed, a quiet truth lingered—style may set the stage, but service steals the spotlight.