‘Best Dressed’ 2024: New awards, same cause
The Best Dressed Women of the Philippines (BDWP), a high-profile charity event, raised nearly P24 million in 2023 for the Philippine Cancer Society (PCS). This year’s 21st edition aimed to surpass that record as the Shangri-La at The Fort Grand Ballroom expanded its capacity to accommodate 70 tables—all fully paid for.
For two decades, socialite and honorary consul for Angola Helen Ong has been a powerhouse behind the event. She has inspired countless individuals to contribute to the cause. “Nobody can say no to Tita Helen since she started BDWP in 2004,” said director Jackie Aquino.
The BDWP gala fashion show recognizes these donors, encouraging others to join the fight against cancer.
Aquino ensured a streamlined and fast-paced production to accommodate the over 50 benefactors parading in their finery. Donors were categorized based on their years of involvement and commitment to the cause. This year, the BDWP featured several new highlights.
Hall of Fame Award
Jacqueline Michelle Lim is the inaugural recipient of the BDWP Hall of Fame Award. As president of the family-owned Amana, she aims to revolutionize the energy sector. She envisions a future where Filipinos rely solely on domestic oil and gas, eliminating the need for brokers and foreign imports.
The “Best Dressed Women of the Philippines 2023” coffee-table book describes this real estate and energy entrepreneur as someone who “moves in a man’s world, dealing with decision-makers in government and powerful leaders in the regions.”
Roberto A. Alvarez Jr., recipient of The Most Exemplary Man of the Year, is the first male to grace the back cover of the coffee-table book. A chairperson of several companies, this leading figure in Philippine real estate oversees a diverse portfolio of developments, ranging from affordable housing to industrial parks.
Known for his civic engagement, Alvarez has held leadership roles in organizations such as the Jaycees and Rotary Club, and was instrumental in selecting Filipino role models as national chairperson of the Ten Outstanding Young Men search. His initiatives include the Foundation for Crime Prevention, which led to the creation of an emergency helpline, and the Buklod Bayani Program, a platform for government-business collaboration. He has also served on the board of the Smokey Foundation, providing technical training to marginalized communities.
A new category, The Dr. Roberto M. Paterno Award, recognizes individuals who have supported the cause for 10 years.
New donors
Every year, the BDWP and Men of Exemplary Influence welcome a long list of new donors. When these donors consistently contribute to the PCS and charity events, they are elevated to the Ambassador for Life category. Style Icons are women whose generosity qualifies them to grace the cover of the BDWP coffee-table book.
To supplement the fundraising efforts, the program features an auction. Since the inception of BDWP, sculptor Ramon Orlina has consistently created new pieces for charity. His latest glass sculpture sold for P3 million. Filipino American fine art photographer Philip Dizon donated two landscape photos, each valued at six figures.
Ong recalls that before their presidencies, Rodrigo Duterte and Ferdinand Marcos Jr. were recognized as Men of Influence. In 2015, Duterte was honored for his exceptional governance in Davao during his tenure as mayor. To prevent the BDWP from becoming a campaign platform, Ong firmly cautioned him against making speeches. “We are not political,” she insisted.
Marcos was initially hesitant to walk the runway, fearing negative public perceptions of his father and namesake. However, when he appeared, the audience applauded. “It wasn’t what I had expected,” Ong recalled.
Contribution
Involvement in the cause begins with a contribution. A P50,000 donation is tax-deductible, and all funds are allocated directly to the PCS. Ong emphasized that the BDWP organizers ensure prudent spending.
“We have cut back on expenses, such as floral decorations in the hallway leading to the ballroom foyer,” she said. Instead of purchasing gifts for the awardees, friends of the cause have donated presents.
The PCS utilizes the proceeds to organize mobile clinics for outreach programs, medication, surgeries and therapy for indigent patients. Previously, the BDWP was involved in medical missions throughout the Philippines, from Ilocos to Mindanao. Members have even met Muslim royalty who have supported the BDWP. Since the pandemic, the focus has shifted to the BDWP coffee-table book.
Ong acknowledged that the BDWP has become a full-time endeavor. As the fundraiser expands, she has less time for another charity, the Consular Ball of the diplomatic corps. “Our fundraising for PCS is in September, while the Consular Ball is in December. By then, I can no longer ask for help,” she said.
Nevertheless, the profound benefits of charitable giving have outweighed the pressures. Donors have reported that their charitable acts have strengthened their belief in their ability to make a positive impact. By facilitating this endeavor, Ong and the BDWP have helped donors transform their wealth into a force for good, leaving a legacy that benefits both themselves and their communities.
