Bing and Elise del Rosario celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary last January 5 at Canyon Woods, together with 200 family members, close relatives, good friends and long-time business associates. In their invitation, the couple specified that “there is no need for gifts; in the 25 years, we have been blessed with everything we could ever wish for – three lovely, responsible, down-to-earth children, fulfilling former corporate careers, good health, and the rare opportunity to be of service to others in this current chapter of our lives. But if you must give, you can make out a check payable to One Small Step Forward Foundation Inc. Your donation will be used for the five-year program (2008-2012) to roll out a new math excellence program to a much larger number of Metro Manila public elementary schools.”

To their pleasant surprise, the response was overwhelming. Donations were received from several guests, including from some who couldn’t make it personally to the silver wedding anniversary event. Total donations reached P275,000, received from 65 donors. Bing and Elise extend their gratitude and appreciation to the following – Benjie & Beng Buensuceso, Johnny & Ayen Guevara, Raymond & Feli Co, Didi Manarang, Albert & Au Alipao, Jo Cariaga, George & Terry Go, Cristina Zaldarriaga, Louie & Nina Limjoco, Ed & Tess Noel, Olan & Challie Dimaano, Lito & Linda Tayag, Aura Matias, Ed San Juan, Armand & Jingjing Favis, Odette Castillo, Dondon & Delia Paderanga, Mark & Chuchay Viegelmann, Lito & Min Sibayan, Doy & Abey Santos, Ed & Cora Abores, Asay & Annabelle Ramos, Bobby & Nimfa Eduardo,

The del Rosario family poses with Bishop Ness after the renewal of vows at the Canyon Woods chapel.

Ben & Mencie de Vera, Olie & Jennie Diaz, Ronnie & Cora Nolasco, Willie & Nen Calma, Duds & Maritess Africa, Ferdie & Winnie Constantino, Chips & Belle Atienza, Eric & Evelyn Fernando, Vic & Iyen Marquez, Bernie & Tinette Buenaseda, Arnel & Yolly Pilapil, Carter & Sonia Go, Joseph & Patrice Tan, Beth Lui, Rita Cruz, Mon & Marian Albert, Peter & Girl Tan, Jimmy & Corrine Vergere, Dodong & Marit Sanchez, Peter & Malu U, Beng Manalang, Francis Miranda, Judy Tan, Dot Velasco, Angel & Mita Ong, Albert & Tess Bacungan, Esther Arca, Eric & Lilia Abad Santos, Raul & Arit Rodriguez, Pepot & Portia Sto. Domingo, Pinggoy & Margot Mañosa, Wilson Wy Tiu, Digna Santos, Consie Salas, Seri Vargas, Annie Blanca, Thelma Co, Nitz Pangilinan, Eloi Opeña, Pacit Manga, Francisca & Amy Yazon, Tommy & Rolet Rossel, and Tony & Cynthia Tan.

The donations collected from the anniversary have already been set aside to kick-start the formal program launch timed for next school year. In addition, the donors have been included in the mailing list for future Foundation newsletters.