I had the chance to meet the former First Lady of the Philippines, Mrs. Imelda Marcos.
This was the second time I met her, the first was in 2006 when she launched her fashion line and the the second meeting was yesterday, a private re-launching of her new collections. The former First Lady was known, in the Philippines and abroad for her extravagant lifestyle. She was once called the "Iron Lady" because she can always find ways to do what she wants, even if without the permission from her husband, the late President Ferdinand Marcos.
Although many see Mrs. Marcos as a bad image for the country, I believe the reverse side of it. She's a fashion icon, a a vision of a strong woman. And I really do not believe all that she spent for her extravagant lifestyle is from the money of the people because prior to their reigning, the Marcos and the Romualdez clan were already rich. The beautiful Imelda Marcos at her young age won a number of beauty crowns. And even though I wasn't born yet at that time and mostly got my infos about her from my mom, I personally can say she is really beautiful inside and out upon meeting her.
She is someone you could share a good laugh. She doesn't even think she's higher than you. I was actually hesitant at first to ambushed photograph her after the event, but I still did manage to get one. She even enthusiastically greet me and exchanged a short laughing moment with her. She would even pat my shoulder every time she laughed. It was a good feeling when someone as high as her status would go down to you as if you have known each other quite well. The minute was over and her guards were already pushing me away. She smiled as she walked away.
It was a great moment and until now I'm still in awe. The Iron Lady has the softest heart and the brightest smile of all.
