What
happens when the country’s finest join forces together for a worthy cause? It is not every day that a virtuous and
exceptional event that redefines fashion, resilience, and
philanthropy happens. In celebration of
its 10th anniversary, the I Want to Share Foundation (IWTS) recently held its
First Charity Gala at Shangri-La the Fort where the country’s showbiz, media
and affluent crowd banded and bonded together for noble reasons.
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| Members of the IWTS Board of Trustees with the cancer warriors who took part in the Shine! Fashion Show |
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Members of the IWTS Board of Directors
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| Romero Family - Milka, Michael, Sheila, Mandy |
“My own journey as a cancer survivor has been
a significant catalyst in my devotion to this cause. God’s healing grace gave
me another lease on life, and I honor that every day by helping children at the
Philippine General Hospital (PGH) to have hope for a brighter future,” says
Sheila Romero, Founder and Chairman of I Want To Share Foundation, during the
charity ball.
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| Tim Yap, Pinky Antonio, Anton Lopez, Ramon Orlina, Steven Tan |
Hailed as masters in their craft, fashion
designers Mark Bumgarner, Rajo Laurel, Andrea Tetangco, Martin Bautista and
Avel Bacudio, along with prominent people from a variety of professional fields
including business and showbusiness proved that that fashion can be a force for
good and has potential to serve a higher purpose. The undertaking was indeed a
living testament to their industry’s boundless compassion to reach out to the
ones who need it most.
“How does it feel to be part of the I Want
Foundation Gala? It feels wonderful. It feels good, because we continue a cycle
of bringing goodness and hope to all these unfortunate children,” Rajo beams
with honor.
“It’s an honor to be part of this—to be able
to showcase my talent, and share my creations to these people,” Andrea Tetangco
adds with pride.
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| IWTS Founder and Chairman Sheila Francisco |
For young cancer warriors, the night was an
attestation to their resounding statement of empowerment, a chance to regain
their sense of control over their appearance, which may have been compromised
along their journey to survival. It was a resonant reminder that they can be
whoever they want to be, outside the realm of their medical condition.
The guests greeted the children with a
resounding warm applause the moment they took the stage and rolled the red
carpet woven with stories of hope and resilience. The unwavering bravery and relentless
battles they conquered on the way to victory was not only inspiring, but it
truly deserved all the accolades from everyone.
This extraordinary event combined art and the
spirit of sharing and giving. An incredible array of artwork and jewelry pieces
during the live auction featured Master Sculptor Daniel Dela Cruz, Contemporary
Artist Andres Barrioquinto, and Dino Gabito.
Modern angels worked hand in hand to meet the
target proceeds of P12M during the prestigious affair. In what could be called a grand way to
celebrate the weekend, the night exceeded everyone’s expectations as a
staggering amount of P19M was raised for the beneficiaries.
A notable gala, the IWTS has endeavored to
transform and uplift lives by raising funds for the establishment of the
Childhood Cancer Helpline, a newly launched initiative that aims to increase
the country’s cancer survival rate from 30% to at least 60% so young
individuals will find the strength and resources to thrive beyond their
diagnosis.
Of the 5,300 Filipino children who develop
cancer yearly, many are undiagnosed, consult late, refuse or abandon treatment,
resulting in an estimated survival rate of only 30% nationwide. “This charitable gala also seeks to secure
funding for the construction of two specialized rooms at the Bone Marrow
Transplant Center in PGH, marking a pioneering achievement in the country where
the chances of healing will be increased. In addition, the IWTS will also
support the funding for the Pediatrics
Hematology Oncology of PGH,” Romero shared proudly during the event.
The Charity Gala is proud to partner with
equally passionate brand sponsors. The success of the event was made possible
by the following sponsors -- Maserati, Rulls, SM Supermalls, Vivo, Arthaland,
The Lind Boracay, Denim Hub, Silicon Valley, Moss Interior Event & Design;
as well as its media sponsors including Philippine Star, Manila Bulletin,
Lifestyle Asia, and Stargate People Asia. Their participation signified a
commitment to make a difference, demonstrating how their abundant resources and
sphere of influence can be channeled into life-changing endeavors.
From its humble beginnings as a small
fundraiser, the I Want to Share Foundation has steadily grown into a
transformative institution, creating a life-changing impact for thousands of
Filipino children.
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Painter Demi Padua and Broadcast Journalist Ces Orena-Drilon, posing with the piece that received the highest bid of the evening
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| Andrea Tetangco Models |
Annually, an average of 600 kids seek
assistance for chemotherapy at PGH. Last December 2022, around 150 graduated
from chemo. They fought hard, believed, and beat cancer and truly deserved a
fitting tribute. The milestone was celebrated by providing the warriors an
avenue to graduate like normal students.
"IWTS will continue in its mission to
make a difference and contribute to society as we lead a purpose-driven life.
The gala is a testament to what we can achieve when we unite to pursue a shared
objective,” Romero shared. “Together, we
can inspire others, reshape lives and illuminate the path for those who need it
most.” Romero emphasizes.
For more details and to follow the campaign,
like and follow, I Want to Share Foundation (@iwanttosharefoundation) across
all social media platforms.
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