Celebrating Agnes Huibonhoa and Tim Yap

Taking time out from a full social calendar, popular lifestyle idol Tim Yap and Gambian consul Agnes Huibonhoa jointly celebrated their birthdays recently with diplomats, business executives, young achievers, politicos, fashion and retail industry stalwarts. A delectable dinner followed by snappy musical tunes that kept everyone on their feet — a perfect excuse to shed calories from Cerveseria’s appetizing cochinillo, paella and other Spanish dishes that kept the guests going back for more.

A few nights before that, Agnes was feted with an intimate dinner by Philippine Tatler’s debonair Anton San Diego, with a select group of diplomats and close friends at the Manila House.

A week after, artistic couple Kifu Augousti and Patrick Coard hosted a belated birthday gathering for Tim to usher in the Year of the Dragon, complete with dragon dancers not only to entertain but to bring good luck to all.

In between these gatherings, I was able to ask what makes their lives interesting and what they are looking forward to.

Helping others is paramount

Selfie time with Rosenthal Tee, Randy Ortiz, Henri Calayag, JC Buendia

Agnes has had many accomplishments when she worked in government and her active participation in the consular corps. What is most important is helping others as she provides regular assistance to the residents in Manaoag Barangay 409 in the Sampaloc area. True to her Aquarian sign, which is the most humanitarian of the 12 astrological signs, she wants to dedicate it to making the world a better place for all.

“Looking back, I realize that I can do more and do better in the years to come. I pray for more strength and determination to continue my undertakings,” she shared. “The person that I am today is a blend of my humble accomplishments, contributions, challenges and difficulties over the years. Despite the obstacles, giving back has always been a worthy endeavor for me.”

The ‘gift of no gap’

Jackie Antonio, Giselle Yujuico, Wendy Puyat, Ria Prieto, Kifu Augousti

Having grown up in the industry, Tim has amassed loads of international fans and friends, transcending generations. Each new year, his popular starter party gathers the boomers, millennials, generations X, Y and Z together in one space because he believes in the gift of no gap— no generation gap.

“We are all in one scene together. We need to uplift and inspire each other to do better. Especially since this is the start of the year, we can map out and manifest what we want in our life, and how we want to live it,” Tim said.

Having met so many creative persons, he enthused,“ I am happy to see the people I grew up with and super looked up to, and now I am proud to call them my friends. This coming year of the dragon, let’s embrace the energy of the year of the dragon, surround ourselves with the best energy, to be more productive, kinder, better and happier versions of ourselves.”