The right fit
“To live at all is miracle enough.”- Mervyn Peake
Deep in our genes, we carry traces of our natural desire to show kindness and compassion. We may express these random acts in different ways through charity or service. With my legal cases almost coming to a favorable close, I can continue my fundraising efforts for this year’s Red Charity Gala with co-chair Kaye Tinga.
Last year, I also supported the fundraising gala of I Want To Share (IWTS) Foundation headed by Sheila Romero. With their tremendously successful live auction of several artworks by notable local artists, the foundation raised enough to build the first Charity Bone Marrow Transplant Unit in the Philippine General Hospital (PGH).
PGH has long been a partner of IWTS in healing and giving hope to countless Filipino lives. This inauguration is a reflection of the unwavering partnership in providing accessible, compassionate, and excellent healthcare to those with no means. This is a true testament of the government and the private sectors joining forces for the good of Filipinos.
Now, more Filipino children gain access to life-saving care and a greater chance to fight cancer. Since 2013, IWTS Foundation has opened healing doors to not only treatments but also after-care services. To date, they have helped around 4,500 children and are so grateful to all their sponsors and generous donors who tirelessly donate every year.
The ceremonial inauguration of the First Charity Bone Marrow Transplant Unit had no less than our First Lady Liza Araneta- Marcos to cut the ribbon with IWTS founder and chairwoman Sheila Romero, Usec. Pinky Romualdez, Dr. Patricia Alcasabas and yours truly. I am just so delighted to be part of this project with the rest of the members including Monica Guevara, Robby Carmona, Dong Ronquillo, Bonnie Tan, Aia Halili, Milka Romero, and Mandy Romero, to name a few.
Our First Lady toured the unit with four medical bedrooms with furniture designed and donated by Katrina De Leon of Genteel Home. For the entertainment of guests, Carla Guevara sang Disney songs to the delight of all.
Get on your feet
Carla has also shared her talent at several RCG dinners. Aside from her, Kayla Rivera-Jimenez also sang at the gala last year. I was surprised to hear her stunning voice again at the opening night of “On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan” at the Proscenium Theater at Rockwell Center, Makati City.
Presented by Rockwell and 9 Works Theatrical, the internationally acclaimed production runs until July 26. Whether you grew up with hits like “Conga,” “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You,” and “1-2-3,” or are discovering them for the very first time, “On Your Feet!” offers more than a celebration of iconic songs; it also tells a deeply moving story about family, perseverance, ambition, and having the courage to keep moving forward despite life’s greatest setbacks.
Alternating as Gloria Estefan are acclaimed musical theater performers Molly Langley and Kayla Rivera, who bring remarkable vocal power, emotional depth, and commanding stage presence to the woman whose music forever changed pop culture. Opposite them is Cuban American actor Jason Canela as Emilio Estefan, capturing the vision, determination, and unwavering belief of the producer who helped transform a dream into a global phenomenon. Together, they portray one of music’s most enduring partnerships with warmth, chemistry, and heart.
Joining them are Ayen Laurel as Gloria Fajardo, Pinky Marquez as Consuelo Garcia, John Joven-Uy as Jose Fajardo, Vien King as Young Jose, Jani Magadia as Rebecca Fajardo, and a dynamic ensemble who bring humor, tenderness, and vibrant energy to every scene.
Under the direction of Robbie Guevara, with musical direction by Daniel Bartolome and choreography by Nunoy van den Burgh, the visually exhilarating production seamlessly blends Broadway-scale spectacle with intimate storytelling.
From heartfelt performances and breathtaking choreography to timeless music that continues to resonate across generations, “On Your Feet!” is a musical that invites audiences not only to watch but to feel, celebrate, and connect. Tickets are available via TicketWorld and at the Power Plant Mall Cinema.
Tailored to change
Another highlight of my week was the opening of Alterations Plus at SM Aura. The shop provides the highest standard of service for all clothing repairs and flawless custom fits.
From garment modifications to premium leather care craftsmanship, Alterations Plus is your all-in-one destination. Additionally, they now offer made-to-order clothing and expert dry cleaning services for delicate and sensitive fabrics. Check out their specialized repair and restoration services for shoes and bags as well. They also protect leather with advanced stain and moisture protection to ensure your investment pieces last.
Lastly, they also do tailoring for curtains and home furnishings as well as custom sofa and luggage covers. They even offer home service. For updates, inquiries, or to book a service, reach out directly via @alterations.plus on Instagram.
It has been such an eventual week of excitement, anxiety and fulfillment but I continue to focus on all things positive and let God handle my future. In the end, if we all do our share in giving back, there will be more hope and compassion as we continue our journey on Earth. May our country weather whatever political storm that comes and finally unite for the good of all Filipinos!
