Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero, 44, and movie star Heart Evangelista- Love Marie Ongpauco in real life- 30, sealed their romance with a wedding kiss on Sunday at the exclusive Balesin Island Resort off Quezon province.
The wedding was held a day after Heart turned 30 on Saturday, Feb. 14. Heart walked to the altar with neither of her parents, Reynaldo and Cecile Ongpauco by her side to give her away to the groom. In the background, Mark Bautista sang “How Did You Know,” the lyrics of which, according to Heart, perfectly described her feelings. Chiz was escorted to the altar by his twin children Joaquin and Cecilia, who greeted the bride with kisses.
Heart’s sisters, with Camille as maid of honor, and Michelle and Lissa, couldn’t stop crying as they joined Evangelista near the altar to give her hand to Chiz. The couple shed tears during the exchange of vows as they professed their love for each other.
The wedding ceremony was officiated by Bishop Arturo Vasquez, a close friend of Senator Chiz from his hometown in Sorsogon. Concelebrating the Mass were Fr. Roger Joseph Erestain and Fr. Jerry Orbos, who delivered the homily.
Among the sponsors are Senator Grace Poe, SM’s Hans Sy, Megaworld’s Andrew Tan, Ayala’s Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Roberto Ongpin, GMA Network Chairman and CEO Felipe Gozon, President and COO Gilberto Duavit Jr. and former Congressman Gilberto Duavit Sr. Other sponsors include 24 Oras anchorwoman Mel Tiangco, Viva Entertainment head Vic Del Rosario, Susan Roces, Eddie Garcia, and Jackie Lou Blanco.
Evangelista’s bridesmaids include Jennylyn Mercado, Lovi Poe, Carla Abellana, Solenn Heussaff and Alessandra de Rossi. Chiz’ groomsmen were close friends and lawyer colleagues.
President Aquino, the best man, was no-show. It was Chiz who told P-Noy not to attend so he wouldn’t be bashed again as he was when he graced the wedding of Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes on Dec. 30 last year.
