It is happening now: the Christmas party of the Katipunan ng mga Artista ng Pelikulang Pilipino at Telebisyon (KAPPT).
Although it isn't held in an exclusive venue, Robinsons Trade Hall in Novaliches, Quezon City is filled to the rafters as Actors Guild of the Philippines' President Imelda Papin led the annual holiday shindig for her members and officers.
Its Christmas spirit is felt when loads of gifts, in cash and in kind, were distributed to the loyal following of the guild, mostly the underprivileged and marginalized workers of the local movie industry.
Its meaning is highlighted by the inspirational message of Imelda herself.
"Para sa atin ito lahat (This is for all of us)," Papin announced.
But the most significant value of the party is the thanksgiving stunt of the general membership on the birth of Jesus Christ, the center of the celebration.
What also makes the gathering more worth remembering is the performance of Imelda herself who was requested by the members to sing for them.
Without hesitation, La Papin gave in to the clamor of the audience by singing one of her signature songs, "Iniibig Ko ang Iniibig Mo" and an adaptation of "You've Lost that Lovin' Feeling" which both earned deafening applause, yells and clicks of cellphone cameras.
"Your voice hasn't changed a bit after all these years," I comment and plant a kiss on her cheek.
Mel only smiles.
Photo Caption: Imelda Papin (second from left) with fellow officers of KAPPT (Photo Credit: Boy Villasanta)
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