Fight vs cancer continues with F.A.C.C.’s ‘Fashion for Compassion’ gala
By Maricar C. Padilla
It was an evening of grace and pageantry as the Filipino American Cancer Care Gala celebrated another year of enthusiastic support for patients afflicted with cancer.
Despite initial challenges, F.A.C.C. went ahead with the celebration, their sixth since its founding in March 2020.
“The 2024 F.A.C.C. Gala was a year-long journey with some hurdles, including a shortage of sponsors just two months prior to the event,” said president and founder Josie Moralidad Ziman. “Nevertheless, F.A.C.C. volunteers and I remained committed in our mission to support those suffering from cancer.”
The ramp event “Fashion for Compassion” featured designers from the Philippines and the United States. Los Angeles-based Carl Andrada, Bernhardt Collections from Virginia, and Adot Enset from Maryland as well as Edwin Uy, Bo Parcon, and Simoun Andres from the Philippines unveiled their apparel collections.
Hyatt Regency Reston in Virginia lit up with colorful and elegant costumes worn by community models including children, seniors, cancer warriors, caregivers, and families and friends impacted by cancer. The sold-out event drew 400 attendees.
The Philanthropic Hero Awards were given to dedicated volunteers and supporters: Catalina Almonte, Mike O’Connor, Dr. Corazon Panes Sanchez, Engr. Danny Sanchez, Sandra and Jeselle Fabria, Gabriela Alvarez, Aissa and Ray Encomienda, and Jeannette and Carl Abella who collectively raised $2,500.
Ziman described the response as “rewarding” and stressed the importance of “helping those in need.”
Entertainment was provided by world-class tenor Allan Palacios Chan; soprano Kay Habana; singers Katrina Manabat and Dave Valeriano from Washington D.C.; the D Neis Siblings; Jenny Stratton; and Kael Jadon Davis. The lively program was directed by Buboi Asuncion of MGI Entertainment.
Proceeds from this year’s gala went to 17 cancer patients, each receiving $1,000 to support their chemotherapy and other treatments. Among the beneficiaries, four are from the U.S. and the rest from the Philippines. The youngest recipient is just 2 years old, diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
F.A.C.C. recently installed a “Bell of Hope” at St. Anthony Hospital in Roxas City, Philippines and other cancer centers in the country, symbolizing courage and strength for survivors.
“Currently, we have a high volume of applications and many individuals awaiting assistance. Our funding primarily comes from fundraising events,” Ziman said.
The process to get assistance includes a completed application form and medical documentation confirming a cancer diagnosis. They will be reviewed by the F.A.C.C.’s financial assistance committee.
F.A.C.C. is also expanding its outreach through a radio program on PHLV Radio in Las Vegas and by offering free cancer screenings in partnership with Inova Hospital in Virginia, with plans to extend these services to the Philippines.
Ziman disclosed plans to expand and provide free cancer screenings in various states.
“As we celebrate our 5th year, our upcoming gala aims to be more than just a fundraising event; we want it to be a meaningful and inspiring occasion for all,” she said. “It will be a celebration of unity among Filipinos in the United States, coming together to combat the devastating impact of cancer.”
For more details on how to apply for assistance, email financialassistancefacc@gmail.com.
