Daily Tribune
The newlyweds Josh and Francine Ong.
The newlyweds with the family of the bride: Kevin, Darren, Frances, Erwin and Daniel Siao.
Newlyweds with the groom’s family: Genoveba, Brenda, Douglas, Jj and Lucio Ong.
Carmencita Lade, grandmother of the bride, with Brad and Therese Marvel.
Edwin Tan, Dorothy Tan with Mimi and Alvin Alazas.
Francine with bridesmaids Arianna Olis, Caitlyn and Janice Ong, Paula Chu, Andrea Aldeguer, Maid of Honor, Marian Almendras, Stephanie Wong, Camylle Macias, Caithryn Yu and Cobie Li Bi.
Ina Aboitiz with principal sponsor Betty Veloso, Jackie Lotzof and Perl Arienza.
Iris Arcenas with Butch Carungay.
June Alegrado, Carla del Prado, Alice Woolbright.
Principal sponsors Bernard Chua and Lesley Po.
principal sponsors Jaime Go and Josine Marzo.
Principal sponsors Mario King and Dame Mariquita Yeung
Principal sponsors Nixon Po and Melita Ramos
Lelet Heredia, Christine Pelaez, Janine Taylor, Tamsin Booth, Celeste Miranda. (Seated) Pauline Hofer and Julie Boschi.
Francine Siao’s journey to finding love began through her best friend Andrea Alessandra Aldeguer from school.
Her initial meeting with Josh Ong sparked an undeniable connection. This immediate chemistry led them to begin dating soon after, marking the start of a romantic relationship that would last for seven years. Their story illustrates how friendship can often serve as a bridge to unexpected and meaningful partnership.
Josh, son of Douglas and Brenda Ong; and Francine, daughter of Erwin and Frances Siao, exchanged their vows at the Cebu Gospel Church officiated by the Reverend Vicente Sia.
There were 12 sets of principal sponsors who played meaningful roles in the lives of the young couple. The grooms brother Jarryd Jon was best man, while match maker Andrea Alessandra was Maid of Honor.
After the ceremony, guests made their way to Shangri-La Mactan for the reception. They were greeted with a selection of cocktails providing a festive atmosphere before transitioning to the marquee for dinner. The fabulous setting masterfully crafted by Sandra Yap was designed to create an elegant and memorable experience, with a focus on exceptional service and culinary delights.
Once all the guests were comfortably seated, the program commenced with a grand procession. The entourage gracefully made their way to their designated spots creating a sense of anticipation in the air. Then the newlyweds made their spectacular entrance amidst applause and cheers.
Both mothers of the bride and groom radiated joy at the wedding. Frances dazzled in a Cary Santiago original, while Brenda showcased understated elegance in a Jun Escario creation. The dads complemented their partners looking dashing in dark suits. This harmonious blend of styles emphasized both the individuality and unity of the families.
One of the most memorable moments of the celebration was the heartfelt father-daughter dance. This special tradition notably showcased the unique bond between Erwin and his unica hija Francine and also brought a sense of nostalgia and joy. The touching dance shared by Josh and his mother Brenda symbolized their deep connection and gratitude for each other, celebrating love and support.
One particularly moving tradition was the Unity Sand ceremony. This act involved the newlyweds pouring different colors of sand into a single vessel, representing their individual lives coming together to form a unified partnership.
The celebration unfolded seamlessly, with guests relishing an exquisite array of culinary masterpieces. Frances, a gifted singer, moved guests to tears as she serenaded her daughter. The music flowed throughout the night, creating an atmosphere filled with joy and love as everyone celebrated the happiness of the newlyweds.
