So I was surprised to be invited to the Formal Dinner portion of the latest FSO examinations. I'd never been asked to attend one since I became an officer, and I didn't realize it had already been over 10 years since I went to mine. I kindaaa wanna say the dinner brought back fond memories of my own oral exams, but to be honest it was all a bit of a blur back then AND I was actually the first candidate of my batch to be called up to give remarks which meant after I finished I could drink wine the rest of the evening while the rest of my batchmates waited for their turn and did I mention it was all a slurry blur back then?
But seriously, this Dad-mind can't remember where he placed his car keys this morning, let alone what happened at a dinner a decade ago. But the recent dinner did trigger a few flashbacks in my head.
I do remember, for instance, the invitation to my dinner stating the recommended event attire as "Filipiniana" (which I suppose has always been the case). What I didn't realize then - and was reminded of now - was how seriously the Department's Senior Officials apparently took this suggestion. Even though the formal dinner would take place near the Home Office and right after work hours -- which to my mind justifies invitees coming in their straight-from-office attire -- everyone arrived having obviously taken the time to clean up, get made-up, and change into Pinoy finery you'd only associate with Embassy June 12 events. This was a big deal.
I do remember, for instance, the invitation to my dinner stating the recommended event attire as "Filipiniana" (which I suppose has always been the case). What I didn't realize then - and was reminded of now - was how seriously the Department's Senior Officials apparently took this suggestion. Even though the formal dinner would take place near the Home Office and right after work hours -- which to my mind justifies invitees coming in their straight-from-office attire -- everyone arrived having obviously taken the time to clean up, get made-up, and change into Pinoy finery you'd only associate with Embassy June 12 events. This was a big deal.
This was OUR nerd-prom!
And I don't remember anymore who were the guests at my table during my oral exam, but I do know they always seat between examinees distinguished senior officials, academics, artists and the like.
So I ask, why the heck was I invited to this thing again?
(UPDATE: They just released the results of the exams, and I thiiiiiink the topnotcher sat at my table. She may have heard my priceless advice "yeah, just keep talking")
Finally, I recall a wonky detail: during my exam, I remember the thing was administered by the Undersecretary for Administration. This year (and I'm not sure since when), the event was run by the Undersecretary for Policy. So my invitation now makes sense -- the man was still on my case about not getting his memo, and now he wanted me to witness him basking in the glow of the cadets.
Legend
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