The first rains of May have fallen on Metro Manila. Not as strong or as frequent as we may want but they did bring freshness under the searing heat of the summer sun. Now we all look forward to honoring our own “i*nay*s,” “*nanay*s,” “mamas” on their special day on Mother’s Day next Sunday. May is also the month of our Blessed Mama Mary and there are now Flores de Mayo and other traditional religious rituals in her honor at our churches and chapels. Let us look into how that Hotel by the Manila Bay, Conrad Manila is preparing for the event for all mothers. Conrad Manila is honoring mothers and soon-to-be moms with a selection of indulgent feasts and exquisite floral cakes, specially curated to show appreciation for their unwavering love and care. Moms can forego sugar restrictions on their special day! Bru Coffee Bar’s three charming floral cake options are beautifully adorned with delicate sugar flowers and intricate detailing, adding an elegant touch to this special celebration. Fabio Berto, hotel general manager, tells us, “At Conrad Manila, we underscore the importance of recognizing the unique bond between mothers and their families. Our lovely floral cakes are a testament to our appreciation of mothers and our dedication to ensuring they receive only the best.” Brasserie has an exquisite “Mother's Day Extravaganza” feast curated by executive chef Warren Brown. Inspired by mom’s favorite dishes, the menu offers an indulgent blend of Indian and Western dishes, including  ribeye roast, lechon sisig con chorizo, paella, and more. On May 13 and 14, moms dine for free in every group of four. The hotel’s China Blue will celebrate Mother’s Day with a grand feast fit for a queen, as our mothers all are. The special menu honors the love and care that mothers selflessly provide their families, and guests can get a special gift for mom with every purchase of the set menu. C Lounge invites families to share precious moments with their mothers while enjoying a delectable spread of treats dubbed The “Mother's Day Tea Party” set. “We want to provide our guests with an opportunity to celebrate this special day with their loved ones in a comfortable and luxurious setting,” adds Fabio. “We strive to create unforgettable moments and experiences that will leave a lasting impression.”
Ed and his mama Benny Now, in preparation for Mother’s Day next Sunday, let’s focus on how a multimedia business mogul inspires us with the way he makes his own mother feel loved every day. The loving son is affable D. Edgard Cabangon Chua (one half of twin Edward), chairman of the ALC Group of Companies, such as Business Mirror, CNN Philippines, RPN, DWIZ, Isuzu GenCars, Eternal Gardens, Citystate Hotel, etc.  The very down-to-earth Edgard is unabashedly devoted to his mother, Bienvenida Angeles Cabangon, now 91 but still up and spritely. His father is the late Ambassador Antonio Cabangon Chua. “Sharon (my very special someone) and I have to see mom (Mama Benny as his dad used to call her) at least once a week or if there will be more opportunities we go visit mom at her place at Wack-Wack subdivision. I want her to feel we are grateful for everything she has given us and of course to our late dad. We want her to know how truly appreciative we are for all the goods and wonderful things she has done for us. Now that she is no longer young, 91 years of age, it’s important that she feels how much we love her by visiting her regularly, bringing her favorite food lunch, merienda, or dinner. Telling her funny stories, showing her pictures specifically during my last birthday party. It is important to us that we see her smile every time we talk to her, tell stories about what took place or significant events that took place for the past week…next activity for the next week. For example, the opening of new business ventures, groundbreaking of projects and, other activities in the other offices. Of course problems in the office we don’t discuss anymore. I make it a point to tell mama good stories about her friends or show her pictures of her longtime friends, and other positive stories. Seeing her smile is the most important thing for us because we know deep inside she knows how much she is loved. We make sure to kiss her and tell her ‘love always, love you more, Mama.’ Thank you for everything, Mama!” The most important thing now, according to Ed, is that they show his mom they love her not only by words but through action. “If mom is happy, we are happier!” Ed says. “That’s the most important thing now for me.”