Art, Style, and Purpose Align: I Want To Share Foundation Gala Returns and Raises Record-Breaking ₱88M

The I Want To Share Foundation (IWTS) returned with a powerful celebration through a recent Charity Gala called An Evening for Brave Warriors. Held at the Grand Ballroom of Shangri-La The Fort, the fundraising event united the worlds of fashion and art for a meaningful cause.

The evening raised an astounding ₱88M, marking a record-breaking milestone for the foundation. Over 550 guests, including philanthropists, celebrities, and changemakers, came together for a night where creativity met compassion.

At the heart of the gala were the true stars of the night: young cancer survivors who walked the runway with undeniable courage and radiant confidence. Dressed in stunning creations by Filipino fashion luminaries Francis Libiran, Ivar Aseron, Dennis Lustico, and Michael Leyva, they transformed the catwalk into a living tribute to resilience. Each step was a testament to their strength and spirit, turning what is often a symbol of glamour into something far more powerful: a celebration of survival, hope, and unbreakable joy.

“I’m forever grateful to every friend, donor, and partner who believed in our mission,” shared Sheila Romero, IWTS Founder. “As a cancer survivor, this cause is deeply personal to me. I know what it’s like to fight & survive and I want every child to feel they are not alone in this journey. This gala isn’t just about raising funds, it’s about creating moments that show these brave kids how seen and loved they are.”

The designers and artists who lent their craft to the gala didn’t just participate, they showed up with heart. For each of them, the fight against cancer is personal. At some point, a friend, a loved one or a colleague was affected and that memory fuels a quiet, unwavering urgency to give back. Their creations became more than fashion or art; they were tributes, acts of remembrance and powerful symbols of solidarity. United by loss, love and the will to help, they transformed the evening into something unforgettable: a collective act of healing through beauty and purpose.

Adding to the evening’s emotional resonance, Catriona Gray, Kaila Estrada, Kirk Bondad, and the children of IWTS members walked the runway alongside young cancer survivors. More than a show of star power, it was a symbol of solidarity and a growing legacy of advocacy. In line with IWTS’s vision, the moment reflected a future led by those who care deeply today.

The gala’s powerful art auction brought together a breathtaking collection of works from master sculptors Ramon Orlina, Daniel De La Cruz, and Jinggoy Buensuceso, alongside celebrated contemporary visionaries like Manny Garibay, Elmer Borlongan, Jigger Cruz, Yeo Kaa, Ayka Go, and others. Each piece was more than just art, it was a gesture of hope, created with heart, deep intention and offered in the spirit of healing.

The IWTS Charity Gala has become known for its highly anticipated art auction, showcasing carefully curated works from some of the country’s most respected and celebrated artists. Each piece is thoughtfully selected not just for its artistic merit, but for its ability to inspire generosity and transform lives.

Proceeds from the gala will help fund two key initiatives:

• Phase 2 of the Philippines’ first Charity Bone Marrow Transplant Wing at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH). This landmark project aims to provide equitable access to life-saving care.
• Donation of 50 Mindray BeneFusion/UVP Infusion Pumps to PGH’s Cancer Institute. This donation, made exclusively by IWTS, marks the first time such critical equipment has been provided to the facility, benefiting both pediatric and adult cancer patients. IWTS is currently the only foundation making such donations.

Beyond treatment, the gala also sustains IWTS’s growing Survivorship Program, which empowers young cancer survivors to heal, reintegrate into society and thrive. This includes free annual CT scans, hearing aids, financial assistance for essential post-treatment needs, and “CAn Beat It”,a symbolic graduation ceremony for children who have completed chemotherapy.

These combined efforts amplify IWTS’s mission to leave no Filipino child behind, ensuring that from diagnosis to survivorship, every child receives the care, dignity, and support they deserve.

As the finale of the evening, renowned singer and artist Gary Valenciano, a cancer survivor himself, took the stage with a heartfelt performance that brought the entire room to its feet. His powerful presence was both a tribute and a testimony to the journey of healing, resilience, and faith.

In one of the most moving moments of the night, the young cancer survivors returned to the stage to light candles, each flame a symbol of life, hope, and the light they carry into the world. It was a quiet yet powerful reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is always something and someone to shine for.

Quiet acts of generosity helped shape the evening behind the scenes. From the elegance of the space to the care poured into every detail, the support of kindred brands like Belo Medical Group, Rockwell, Spruce Gallery, Casa Juan, Nice Print, and Vision Express added warmth and intention to the experience. Their involvement wasn’t just logistical, but was personal, a reflection of shared empathy and a deep belief in the power of community to uplift lives.

“An Evening for Brave Warriors was more than a fundraising event, it was a powerful statement of solidarity. Together, we are building spaces where healing is possible, where compassion leads, and where no child is left behind in the fight against cancer. Not on our watch. Not tonight,” said Sheila Romero.

“To everyone who showed up, stood in support, and gave generously, you’ve helped change a child’s life. Through your presence and partnership, you’ve brought hope within reach and lit the way forward for a brighter, healthier future,” she ended.

The event was expertly staged under the creative direction of Robby Carmona, one of the IWTS Board of Trustees, whose vision and execution helped deliver an experience that was moving and unforgettable.

The IWTS Charity Gala continues to be a celebration of generosity and resilience. For every child facing cancer, it’s a message that they are not forgotten. Their dreams matter and they deserve a brighter, longer, healthier future.