Around 115 children have fought a battle that no kid should ever endure, and they won. The “CAn Beat It” ceremony, organized by the I Want To Share Foundation (IWTS), honored these pediatric patients as they graduated from their chemotherapy programs. Held at Manila Prince Hotel, this special event was a tribute to the resilience of pediatric cancer survivors.
Now in its fourth year, “CAn Beat It!” has become more than a ceremony, it is a celebration of the strength of young cancer warriors and their loved ones. Last year, another batch of children also reached their milestone of completing treatment, and this year’s event only proves how the program continues to grow stronger. The annual ceremony is a testament to IWTS’ enduring commitment to support childhood cancer at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH), making sure each child crosses the finish line with hope and possibility.
This year’s graduates have overcome a range of illnesses, including leukemia, brain tumors, langerhans cell histiocytosis, osteosarcoma, lymphoma, retinoblastoma, and solid tumors. Behind every diagnosis was a child determined to live, a team of doctors and nurses fighting beside them, and a treatment journey driven by courage. IWTS believes every child deserves the chance to live fully, which was the essence of the event.
Adding joy and music to the event was a special performance by musical and theatrical performer Arman Ferrer. Also in attendance was keynote speaker Vicki Belo, a Filipina doctor, entrepreneur, and media personality, Dr. Pamela Fajardo, Head of the UP-PGH Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, and board members of IWTS who have played key roles in championing pediatric cancer treatment in the country. Special guests included Dr. Hayden Kho, Scarlet Snow Belo and singer-actress Ysabel Ortega.
During the event, Dr. Belo shared her personal journey with cancer, offering inspiration and hope to young survivors.
“This isn’t just a graduation—it’s a declaration of life after cancer,” shared IWTS Founder Sheila Romero, who herself is a breast cancer survivor. “I know how tough the fight can be, but I also know how powerful hope is. These children are proof that healing is possible and worth every effort.”
Aside from the memorable graduation ceremony, the kids received gifts in cash and in kind from IWTS as well as toys from the Belo Medical Group.
Following the tremendous success of its inaugural 2023 gala, which raised millions for the cause, IWTS continues to build on its momentum. On August 1, 2025, IWTS will further its fundraising efforts through its second Gala Night, “An Evening for Brave Warriors”, at the Grand Ballroom of Shangri-La The Fort, Bonifacio Global City.
The prestigious affair will not just be a celebration of art and generosity—it will be a cornerstone event designed to rally greater public and private support in the fight against childhood cancer.
Presented by Belo Medical Group, “An Evening for Brave Warriors” will bring together entertainment, fashion, art, and advocacy in support of children battling cancer at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH). All proceeds will directly fund critical medical needs and cancer care initiatives, including:
- Phase 2 of the Bone Marrow Transplant Wing
- Procurement of Mindray BeneFusion/UVP Infusion Pumps
- Support for the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Department
- Long-term Survivorship Programs
- Campaigns to raise awareness for early detection and survival of childhood cancer
The gala combines elegance with advocacy. It will feature a fashion show by young cancer survivors, showcasing creations by celebrated Filipino designers Ivar Aseron, Michael Leyva, Francis Libiran, and Dennis Lustico. A charity art auction will also be held, featuring works by renowned artists such as Ramon Orlina, Elmer Borlongan, Manny Garibay, Daniel dela Cruz, Jigger Cruz, Jinggoy Buensuceso, Yeo Kaa, among others. Guests can also look forward to luxury raffle draws and other exclusive experiences.