It was a memorable evening of music and community as friends and supporters showed up for EPCALM’s fundraising dinner on 25 February 2026 at Antonio’s at PGA Cars, a fine dining restaurant located within the PGA Cars dealership in Mandaluyong City. The program was hosted by EPCALM Spiritual Care Director, Pastor Bennie Lagos, and featured a message from our Founder and Board Chair, Dr. Erlyn Demerre, who expressed her gratitude for the continued support of our mission and wor

Rolly B. Franco: “There is life after leukemia, indeed.” Patient Stories Series (No. 36) The journey of Rolly B. Franco , 34, with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) is a profound testament to the preciousness of life and the power of faith.  Diagnosed in 2018 after experiencing severe weight loss, physical lumps, blurred vision, and an enlarged spleen, he sought medical attention in San Fernando and Arayat, Pampanga, where he comes from. Following a series of tests, includin

EPCALM patients and their families gathered at the EPCALM House in New Manila, Quezon City recently for a day of fun, camaraderie, and fellowship. The Family Huddle was held on 28 February 2026, with EPCALM officials on hand to welcome the serviced patients and their loved ones.  Conducted quarterly, the Family Huddle is a supportive gathering where patients and their family members come together in a safe and welcoming space. It provides an opportunity to connect with others

The EPCALM Leukemia Foundation of the Philippines , the only non-stock, non-profit organization in the Philippines, which provides personalized, practical and family-oriented support services for patients journeying through adult leukemia.  EPCALM is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). It is also accredited by the Quezon City LGU as a Civil Society Organization (CSO).  Interested applicants

Consistent with our strategic goal to collaborate with a diverse community of stakeholders to advance cancer care in the Philippines, the EPCALM Foundation recently participated in the Philippine National Cancer Care Summit (PNCS). Held on 19-20 February 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Galleria Manila in Quezon City, the PNCS is a multi-sectoral platform that fosters dialogue and drives actionable strategies to address challenges in cancer care. Each year, the summit highlights inno

Adrian Pol Intal: Keeping the challenges of life balanced toward recovery. Patient Stories Series (No. 35) Leukemia patients frequently face physical symptoms such as fatigue, infection, and bone pain, alongside emotional challenges like depression and family disruption. Managing these difficulties is essential for the well-being of both patients and their families. Standard treatment protocols emphasize a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, hydration, gentle exerci

This is the uplifting journey of Jonallyn B. Chentes, a 28-year-old survivor who has been a serviced patient of the EPCALM Foundation since 2018. Diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) in 2016, she was forced to pause her education to undergo grueling treatment. The following years tested her physical and financial endurance, as her family faced significant challenges to cover both household and medical expenses. Although she was declared in remission in 2018, she re

John Patrick Regidor: Hoping for better days, with a smile. Patient Stories Series (No. 34) Most people who meet John Patrick S. Regidor  see a polite 22-year-old with a soft voice and a disarming smile. But behind that smile is a battle that began long before his leukemia diagnosis—one that continues even to this day. JP, the youngest son of the late Patricio III and Theresa Regidor, grew up in Naga City, Camarines Sur in a home anchored by faith and perseverance. A Civil En

Family love can significantly heal disease by providing emotional support, fostering healthier lifestyle choices, and creating a nurturing environment. Such was the experience of Editho G. Mula who has been courageously fighting chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) since March 2020. He is a devoted husband to Liza, and a father of four from Butuan City, While the financial burden was a significant challenge, Tatay Editho and his family remained steadfast in their faith, as they

Patient Stories Series (No. 33) A leukemia diagnosis is a life-altering event that often brings fear and uncertainty. However, it also highlights the profound strength and resilience of the human spirit. In this article, we share the uplifting story of Rizz Ann Maysia T. Perlado-Lozares , a 30-year-old survivor who found hope during her battle with this disease. When she was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) in September 2015, the news was devastating. Yet, with

Prayer is often described as a direct line of communication with God. It allows individuals to express their fears, hopes, and desires, fostering a deeper relationship with the divine.  Throughout his life-altering journey with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), Moises Angelo M. Pili , 22, used the power of prayers to seek direction in his life, asking for wisdom and clarity in his everyday decisions.   Moises Angelo’s story highlights the profound impact of faith, a positive mi

Hector Valladolid Jr.:  Thankful to EPCALM for helping him on the road to healing. Patient Stories Series (No. 32) After a long battle with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), Hector V. Valladolid Jr.,  37, has reached a place of peace. In September 2022, his oncologist confirmed he was in remission.  Seeking relief from the emotional and physical toll of his illness, Hector and his wife temporarily moved to her hometown in Sevilla, Bohol, to pursue a quieter life, and a more r

Nerry Ann A. Aguilar  was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) at the age of 18, shortly after moving to Makati to support her family. Despite the physical and emotional toll of intensive chemotherapy at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH), she demonstrated remarkable bravery, and reached the remission stage in January 2019. For the past five years, Nerry Ann lived a productive life in her hometown in Oriental Mindoro, supporting her family through online selling and

The EPCALM Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in the Voluntary Blood Donation Drive held on 31 January 2026 at St. Luke’s Medical Center-Global City (SLMC-GC), Taguig City. We would like to give special thanks to the dedicated men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines—including the Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard, and Marines—as well as the Philippine National Police and the Bureau of Fire Protection. Our sincere appreciation

Jonallyn B. Chentes: Leukemia could not stop her from fulfilling her dream of finishing her college studies—for her, and for her loved ones. Patient Stories Series (No. 31) Jonallyn B. Chentes,  28, has been a serviced patient of the EPCALM Foundation since 2018. Diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) on 4 July 2016, her life changed just as she was preparing to enter college. What began as persistent swelling led to a diagnosis at the Philippine General Hospital, fo

Throughout his leukemia journey, 30-year-old Alvin S. Mendoza has been supported by well-meaning friends, who have collectively called themselves the "CML Warriors" in Pampanga.  Diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in January 2021, Alvin is grateful for these friends and sponsors who have provided him with free medication, and assisted him in accessing government financial assistance. Now, Alvin pays it forward by sharing his knowledge, faith, and humor to supp

Editho G. Mula (in orange shirt), with his wife: A picture of hope in the face of life’s challenges. Patient Stories Series (No. 30) Editho G. Mula , affectionately known as Tatay Editho , has been courageously fighting chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) since March 2020. A devoted husband to Liza and a father of four from Butuan City, Tatay Editho has spent his life working tirelessly as a tailor, surveyor, and steelman to provide for his family, often surviving on only a fe

Dwayne Raedhen N. Cabel , 25, has demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout his battle with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). He was first diagnosed in October 2019. Despite the rigorous demands of multiple chemotherapy cycles, he remained dedicated to his academic goals and successfully graduated from college in 2021.  By 2023, he further achieved professional success by securing a position as an online graphic designer, even while undergoing another round of treatment.

Calling all Blood Donors! In line with our commitment to compassionate service, the EPCALM Foundation is organizing a Voluntary Blood Donation Drive  to ensure an adequate and timely blood supply for our patients requiring life-saving transfusions. The bloodletting activity is scheduled for Saturday, 31 January 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Henry Sy Sr., Auditorium, 5 th  Floor, St. Luke’s Medical Center-Global City (SLMC-GC), Rizal Drive corner 3 rd  St. and 5th A

Moises Angelo Pili: Healing is possible through the power of prayers. Patient Stories Series (No. 29) Moises Angelo M. Pili is a young man whose resilience continues to shine despite a life-altering diagnosis. At 22, he is a vibrant Computer Engineering student from Purok 2, San Jose, Sta. Ana, Pampanga.  He was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) following a medical procedure. His treatment began with Hetero Imatinib, presenting immense physical and emotional chall

EPCALM Social Worker, Shiela Mae Baliber (right), receives the donated sacks of rice from a representative of Ocean Star Freight Express. EPCALM recently received a generous gift of ten 25-kilo sacks of rice from Ocean Star Freight Express, a sea freight forwarding company based in Quezon City. The donated rice will be distributed shortly to EPCALM’s serviced patients and their families.  Anna Marie Gutierrez, company manager, together with her sister, Rosie, company owner, s

Diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in November 2021 at the age of 36, Pedro P. Lising Jr. has faced a journey marked by significant challenges, frustration, and worry. A resident of San Nicolas, Mexico, Pampanga, his battle with CML is further complicated by pre-existing anxiety and hypertension. The months following his diagnosis have tested his resilience, yet Pedro has never lost hope. He has been fortunate to have the steadfast support of family and friend

Life was definitely wrought with challenges when Dennis L. Ballon was diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in August 2010.  Through the help of his “village of support systems”, led by his indefatigable wife, Shiela, Dennis has been benefitted by vital programs and services, including spiritual nourishment. Little by little, through the EPCALM Foundation, help came in the form of free chemo drugs, and more involvement in person-to-person engagements, among interv

Nerry Ann Aguilar:  A picture of fearlessness in the face of uncertainty. Patient Stories Series (No. 28) This is the inspiring story of Nerry Ann A. Aguilar , a resilient young woman from Oriental Mindoro who is currently facing a renewed battle against acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Financial hardships prevented her from finishing college. Nonetheless, she worked tirelessly as a service crew member until symptoms like extreme weakness and jaundice led her to seek medical hel