For decades — almost since it was founded in 1920 — Casino Español de Cebu, the premier club of the island where friends meet friends and where families get together with others, has always celebrated New Year's Eve with the traditional Baile de Disfrases.

However, this time around, the Board of Directors spearheaded by Club president Andre Borromeo opted to welcome the New Year with a Black and White Masquerade Ball.

As expected, members and their guests arrived in sophisticated attires. The distinctive masks added an element of mystery and excitement to the occasion.

Event specialist Debbie Huang created magic through a variety of decorations and design elements — all in black and white — which added to the theme of the affair.

The Cebu Events Chamber Orchestra serenaded the attendees with hard-to-find dining music and theater hits over a dinner to remember, which created a more enjoyable and memorable experience.

During the evening, to vie for prizes, the very best marched in a parade with every imaginable mask before a discerning panel of judges composed of Synthia Oquias, Jose Mari Veloso and Yuki Ricamora.

The winners in the individual category were Barbara Fernandes as most elegant, Dove Sainz as most original, Nichollo Xandro Romualdez as most comical and Tessie Javier as most colorful.