It was "some enchanted evening" crooned a happy guest at Ramon Orlina's 75th birthday celebration held last Jan 27 at Casa Juico by Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Quezon City. It was well attended by some 280 guests who the celebrant considered among his close and beloved friends and relatives including VIPs:  National Artist Frankie Sionil Jose and Mrs Tessie Sionil Jose, National Artist Ryan Cayabyab and Mrs Emmie Cayabyab and the Honorable Ambassador Sung Kim of the United States of America. 

In his welcome speech he said with candor, "Lay Ann tells me to say it is my 75th birthday because ... the truth will set me free!! I admit that I have been shy in the past about telling my age, but I realize now, that to reach this milestone in life, is an enormous blessing, and a time for a confession … and big celebration!! 

And so, I thank God for 75 years of His goodness, love and protection. And I thank God for all of you here. You are important to me, because you have touched my life, in meaningful and significant ways. You have either influenced me, inspired me, motivated me, or helped and supported me, in many different ways and in various aspects of my life".

His children Naesa, Anna, Michael and son-in-law RJ were present to celebrate this momentous occasion save for daughter Ningning who had to remain in Hamburg. They each gave touching tributes to their dad (Ningning via a surprise video) for the inspiration that he is to them in his passion and love for life and for his art. 

The guests were surprised by this hidden jewel of an events venue Las Casas de Acuzar in QC with the beautifully restored art deco mansion (of former owners the Juico family) and it's well-trimmed gardens and trees. It was designed by NA Arch Pablo Antonio and successfully renovated and embellished by Jerry Acuzar of San Jose Builders.  

The evening began with a Thanksgiving Mass presided by Fr. Anton CT Pasual. Afterwards guests were treated to a sumptuous and elegant buffet by Margarita Fores of Cibos and entertained to classical music of the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra under the baton of conductor Jeffrey Solares, followed by rockin' 60's music of Bloomfields band when dancing started and lasted till the late evening. 

To add more excitement to the evening the celebrant raffled off a stunning Orlina sculpture in carved green glass and 3 beautiful pendants donated by Hoseki. Proceeds of the raffle were donated to various charities close to his heart. 

It was a delightful 75th birthday celebration with joyous and wonderful moments to remember for years to come.