She stood all alone for years in the middle of a vast, desolate, empty  and recently dredged parcel of land. Around it, not even a solitary tree took root. There has been a lot of talk, reactions and even tall tales along the lines of "What is she all about?"

It seemed the general public only saw her from a distance. I can even recall from whenever I drove through the boulevard by the bay, no one visited — neither humans nor vehicles. "Was she only a mysterious façade?" I even wondered.

Fast forward. A new city was born and within the site rose the Mall of Asia Arena. Here, we watched once-in-a-lifetime concerts with adored performers from home and abroad with family and friends. And not to mention the game exhibitions with global star players and admired athletes. Likewise, not to be forgotten are local basketball and volleyball games of my old school De La Salle University, and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde — my newest affiliation. The arena even played host to the visit of Pope Francis on the day concentrated on families, where we were blessed with a vantage point — a dream fulfilled thanks to a special friend.

Another boon came in the form of Conrad Manila — the hotel of choice, even with its relatively short life — for quick get-togethers to witness the sinking signature afternoon sun with innovative cocktails, along with exquisite snacks. We were lucky enough to be invited to quarterly art exhibits and ballroom affairs, whether diplomatic, corporate or personal in nature. We must also be thankful to join food festivals with visiting master chefs, and even affairs such as the Chinese New Year celebrations and Christmas tree lighting ceremonies.