Julia Barretto Debut Attended by Dad Dennis Padilla, Aunt Claudine and Showbiz Friends
by Vance Madrid
Look at her now! The little girl we’ve known as Marjorie Barretto and Dennis Padilla’s darling daughter Julia Barretto is now all grown up and definitely a looker. As the current “it girl” and one of the most sought after celebrity endorsers, she captivates guys with her strawberry red lips, flawless skin complexion, bedimpled smile and shiny long tresses. She had just celebrated her birthday–her metamorphosis from a cute young miss to a beautiful lady.
The Rizal Ballroom of Shangri-La Makati Hotel recently witnessed an evening of pride and nostalgia for Marjorie Barretto and Dennis Padilla as they feted their daughter, Julia, on the occasion of her 18th birthday. It was an exceptionally memorable moment for Dennis as he gave an inspiring and emotional message to his beloved daughter.
The Carousel-inspired stage was conceptualized by event designer Barbie Oardo-Tiangco. While the elegant floral arrangement at the ceiling of 25×25 feet all fresh flowers drape were arranged by Robert Blancaflor and his team and they actually spent 15 hours to complete it. On every table, there was fresh Amaryllis imported from Holland. Julia’s rotating carousel-inspired cake was made by famous pastry chef Penk Ching. The debut is rumored to be worth 5 million pesos.
The party was filled with pomp and pageantry that befit a princess such as Julia. The birthday girl looked regal and stunning as she wore a garnet colored Michael Cinco debutante gown highlighted by a studded teardrop style earrings and necklace. Adding excitement to the occasion was the presentation of 18 roses and 19 candles (Julia said she made them 19 in case someone might not be able to make it.) Onscreen partner and closest friend Iñigo Pascual was her escort for the night while actors Matteo Guidicelli and Robi Domingo served as hosts.
The ladies who made up Julia’s 19 candles are: Dani Barretto, Claudia Barretto, Patita Tumpalan, Erich Gonzales, Alora Sasam, Natalia Ortega, Nicole Barretto, Cris Navarro, Marissa Kalaw, Pokwang, RB Chanco, Lala Flores, Denise Heredia, Coy Barretto, Ella Pangilinan, Liz Uy, Janella Salvador, Liza Soberano and Maja Salvador.
Her 18 roses meanwhile are: Dennis Padilla, Matteo Guidicelli, Rayver Cruz, Enchong Dee, Khalil Ramos, Robi Domingo, Sam Concepcion, Dominic Roque, Leon Barretto, Mark Barretto,John Barretto, Cholo Barretto, Jason Soong, Mark Soong, Miguel Barretto, John Sweet Lapus, Enrique Gil and Inigo Pascual.
[metaslider id=8064]
Among those who attended at Julia’s debut were Julia’s father Dennis who has been estranged by her mother Marjorie; maternal grandparents Miguel and Inday, who publicly castigated Marjorie back in 2013, and Claudine, with whom the matriarch sided with at the height of the feud among Barretto siblings. Aunt Gretchen was absent as she left for London to spend time with daughter Dominique.
“I’ve really missed all my nieces and nephews especially Julia. I’m so proud of her achievements and I want her to know that I’m always rallying behind her as she reaches out for her dreams,” says Claudine.
Everyone wanted to make Julia happy on her special day. All the family squabbles among other issues were somehow set aside because Julia’s debut served as reunion among the Barrettos. It’s a good start to heal the wounds of the past. Mike Barretto (Julia’s grandfather) says, “Our family is almost complete. I keep praying each night and going to the mass thrice a week for it. In God’s time, all the wounds shall heal and we will become one big family again.”
Julia was happy that her special day paved the way for her relatives to patch up their differences. She also recognizes the reality of facing a new chapter in her life and the uncertainties of everyday living. Yet, she is thankful to God for the love of her family and the support of her friends and fans.
Julia’s coming out party will be shown on March 29 on ABS-CBN’s “Sunday’s Best”.
