A Purposeful Evening
How fashion, art, and advocacy unite to support children with cancer.
Words Patricia Lanzagarita
Photo courtesy of I Want To Share Foundation
August 22, 2025
At the Shangri-La The Fort’s Grand Ballroom, a different kind of runway took place—one focused not on fashion alone, but on courage, healing, and compassion.
The I Want To Share Foundation (IWTS) hosted its latest charity gala, An Evening for Brave Warriors, raising a record-breaking P88 million. The event showed how fashion, art, and advocacy can come together to make a real difference.
A cancer surivvor proudly takes off his cap while modeling Francis Libiran's creation
The highlight of the evening was the participation of young cancer survivors, who walked the runway in pieces by top Filipino designers including Francis Libiran, Ivar Aseron, Dennis Lustico, and Michael Leyva. Celebrities like Catriona Gray, Kaila Estrada, and Kirk Bondad also joined the runway, walking alongside the children to show their solidarity.
More than 500 guests—including philanthropists, artists, and changemakers—gathered not only to contribute, but to support a meaningful cause. Many designers and artists involved had personal experiences with cancer, bringing emotional depth to their work.
IWTS Founder and Cancer Survivor Sheila Romero
For IWTS founder Sheila Romero, a cancer survivor herself, the event is deeply personal. “I know what it’s like to fight and survive. I want every child to feel they are not alone in this journey,” she said. “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 evening also featured an art auction with pieces by noted artists and sculptors such as Ramon Orlina, Daniel dela Cruz, Jinggoy Buensuceso, Manny Garibay, Elmer Borlongan, Jigger Cruz, Yeo Kaa, Ayka Go, and others.
Jeremy & Pia Jauncey, Agnes Huibonhua, Cristalle Belo-Pitt, Dr. Vicki Belo and BJ Pascual
Proceeds from the gala will help fund two key initiatives, including phase two of the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) Charity Bone Marrow Transplant Wing and the donation of 50 Mindray BeneFusion/UVP infusion pumps to PGH’s Cancer Institute. These landmark projects aim to provide equitable access to life-saving care. The gala also sustains IWTS’s growing Survivorship Program which includes free annual CT scans and financial assistance for essential post-treatment needs.
Gary Valenciano
A performance by Gary Valenciano, himself a cancer survivor, closed the evening on a hopeful note.
“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,” Romero said.
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