Yesterday, 21 September 2026, we gathered at Sta. Elena Golf and Country Club in Santa Rosa City, Laguna for the 2nd EPCALM Swing for Hope Invitational Golf Tournament—a day filled with fellowship, camaraderie, and a shared commitment to a meaningful cause. We were once again reminded of God’s continued favor and sustaining grace upon EPCALM. Despite the uncertainty of the days leading up to the tournament, He cleared the skies and blessed us with beautiful weather for a wond

Reynan in his hospital bed, with his partner and father by his side: facing each new challenge with courage and determination. Patient Stories Series (No. 52) At just 26, Reynan Q. Cañelas never imagined that life would take him on a journey he had never expected. A Criminology graduate and former Lalamove delivery rider, Reynan worked long hours to support himself and help provide for his family. But when persistent weakness and other health concerns led him to seek medical

For the EPCALM Foundation, strengthening the protection and dignity of the patients it serves goes beyond providing medical and financial assistance. It also means ensuring that sensitive patient information is handled responsibly. This is one reason the Foundation participated in a Webinar hosted by the DSWD-facilitated Area-Based Standards Network (ABSNet) on 10 September 2026. The webinar, themed “A Practical Privacy Conversation for NGOs in the Philippines,” carried the t

Anjenatte: Navigating the challenges of living with leukemia. Patient Stories Series (No. 51) Anjenatte G. Caño is devoted to her family, especially her husband, Carl Vincent, and their two young daughters, Francent and Jascent. Like many mothers, much of her life revolved around caring for her children and keeping their home. She never imagined that an illness would one day make even the simplest of these responsibilities a struggle. It began with symptoms that seemed ordina

On the occasion of Blood Cancer Awareness Month, the Department of Health (DOH) has highlighted that approximately 33 Filipinos are diagnosed with blood cancer every day, with nearly 60 per cent of cases detected at advanced stages, often because patients seek medical attention only when symptoms have become more serious. Early consultation can make a difference. If you experience persistent or recurring fever, swollen lymph nodes, unexplained bruising or bleeding, unusual fa

The EPCALM Adult Leukemia Foundation of the Philippines joined fellow members of the Blood Cancer Alliance of the Philippines (BCAP) yesterday in supporting its partner organization, the Philippine College of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine (PCHTM), during the opening of its 7th Annual Convention, being held from 6 to 9 September at the Edsa Shangri-La Manila. Held in observance of Blood Cancer Awareness Month, pursuant to Proclamation No. 1833, the convention brings toge

Jessieca Macam and her “miracle” baby, Janella Dwaine, with hematologist, Dr. Anne Valeriano – A reminder that even in the darkest chapters, there can be reasons to keep looking forward Patient Stories Series (No. 50) At 25, Jessieca A. Macam never imagined that she would have to fight leukemia while carrying a new life inside her. Jessieca lives in Novaliches, Quezon City, with her partner, John Plarao, and their eight-year-old son, John David. Her life changed dramatically

There are few words that can change the course of a life as quickly as: “You have leukemia.” Alvin Uy knows this firsthand. In 2023, Alvin was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML)—a diagnosis that immediately changed the way he looked at time, family, work, and even something as ordinary as a blood test. What followed was a grueling period of treatment and months of confinement. Chemotherapy, radiation, blood and platelet transfusions, uncertainty, and physical exhaust

This 14 September 2026, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, join us for PULSE PROTOCOL, a special blood donation drive spearheaded by the Department of Medicine of the St. Luke’s Medical Center-Global City, in collaboration with the EPCALM Foundation, in observance of Blood Cancer Awareness Month. For patients living with leukemia and other blood disorders and cancers, blood and blood products can be essential throughout their treatment journey. Every donation can help make a difference

Christopher Biñas — His life was defined by his love for his family, and his determination to keep going despite life’s many challenges. Patient Stories Series (No. 49) Christopher G. Biñas was a 50-year-old husband and father of two who dedicated much of his life to providing for his family. From 1998 to 2017, he worked as an Overseas Filipino Worker, traveling to Taiwan, South Korea, and several countries in the Middle East. After nearly two decades abroad, he returned home

Riza M. Padronzulan, 39, has faced an extraordinary medical journey. Diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome in 2017 after returning from Singapore, she has endured numerous health complications, multiple hospitalizations, and nearly a decade of monthly blood transfusions. Through every trial, Riza has remained steadfast in her faith. She credits God's sustaining grace, the unwavering support of her husband, her healthcare team, and the generosity of countless blood donors fo

At 34, Ricjosef D. Buenos Aires, an Accountancy graduate from Cardona, Rizal, was building a promising career when he was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in January 2026. The diagnosis came as a devastating shock, but with the unwavering support of his family, friends, and even strangers, he found the strength to face his journey with hope and courage. Ricjosef endured 28 days of chemotherapy, multiple hospitalizations, and numerous medical procedures. Along the w

Reycah Ezekiel B. Pablo, 24, a Dean's Lister in Civil Engineering at the University of Makati, put his studies and his passion for music on hold after being diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia in October 2024. Guided by his faith and supported by his family, he continues to fight with courage, holding on to his dream of becoming a licensed Civil Engineer and returning to the music he loves. Today, Reycah and his family are seeking financial assistance for his bone marr

"For where two or three gather in My Name, there am I with them." — Matthew 18:20 For many adult leukemia patients and their families, the journey through illness can be physically, emotionally, and spiritually challenging. At the EPCALM Foundation, no one is expected to walk that journey alone. Every Friday evening, EPCALM-serviced patients, family members, volunteers, and supporters gather online for the EPCALM Family Church Bible Fellowship—a weekly time of worship, learni

In 2013, George C. Lee-Chuy was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia. Like many families, they initially feared the worst. Today, however, George is cancer-free and has remained in remission for more than 10 years—a powerful testament to hope and perseverance. George's journey was anything but easy. He underwent eight rounds of chemotherapy, countless blood transfusions, and battled serious complications, including sepsis and shingles. Through it all, his family stood by

The EPCALM Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to all partners, volunteers, and blood donorswho generously supported the EPCALM Voluntary Blood Donation Drive held on 25 July 2026 at St.Luke's Medical Center–Global City (SLMC-GC) in Taguig City. Conducted in observance of National Blood Donors Month and as part of EPCALM's continuingVoluntary Blood Donation Program, the blood drive was a resounding success, made possible throughthe generosity, dedication, and collabora

Drive for a cause. Play with purpose. Give hope. In observance of World Leukemia Awareness Month, the EPCALM Foundation will hold the 2 nd EPCALM Swing for Hope Invitational Golf Tournament on Monday, 21 September 2026, at the prestigious Sta. Elena Golf and Country Club in Santa Rosa City, Laguna. The fundraising tournament aims to generate support for the EPCALM Hope Fund, which enables the Foundation to provide vital assistance and comprehensive, family-centered care to ad

She shares a smile that reflects her faith, hope, and resilience. Patient Stories Series (No. 48) At 39 years old, Riza M. Padronzulan has endured more than most people could imagine. A former domestic helper who worked in Singapore for six years, her medical journey began in March 2017, when she was first hospitalized at Tan Tock Seng Hospital. After returning to the Philippines due to persistent symptoms, she was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome at the Philippine Gen

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has renewed the Certificate of Registration and License to Operate of the EPCALM Foundation as an Auxiliary Social Welfare and Development Agency (SWDA). Issued on 8 July 2026, the renewed Registration and License is valid for three years. The renewal affirms EPCALM's continued compliance with the standards prescribed by the DSWD for governance, financial accountability, program implementation, and the delivery of qualit

Patient Stories Series (No. 47) At just 34 years old, Ricjosef D. Buenos Aires never imagined that his life would change so dramatically. The only child of a family driver and a public-school teacher from Cardona, Rizal, he had built a promising career as an Accountancy graduate working as a virtual assistant for two foreign-based companies. In January 2026, everything changed when he was diagnosed with Acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The diagnosis came as a devastating shock.

Despite her leukemia diagnosis, Margie P. Villafuerte discovered she was pregnant in March 2023. While medical advisories often caution against pregnancy for female leukemia patients, Margie chose to move forward with courage.Throughout her pregnancy, she sought support from the EPCALM Foundation to navigate her health concerns, and ensure a safe delivery. In December 2023, Margie welcomed a healthy baby girl named Mhira Claire—a name chosen to honor the miraculous nature of

EPCALM-serviced adult leukemia patients received their much-needed medicines for their ongoing treatment on 4 July 2026, thanks to the generous support of GetMEDS Philippines. EPCALM is proud to partner with GetMEDS Philippines in improving access to essential medicines for adult leukemia patients. Together, we are working to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent patients from receiving the treatment they need. For many patients, the cost of care extends beyond chemot

This is the enduring story of Merlita B. Macalino, a 34-year-old mother of two from Macabebe, Pampanga, who has been battling chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) since January 2021. Despite the challenges of her diagnosis, Merlita has faced her illness with remarkable resilience and determination.Throughout her journey, Merlita’s family has been her anchor. Her husband, John Phillip, and their children provide constant emotional support, while her sister, Mary Rose, and other

EPCALM-serviced leukemia patients and their families gather with the EPCALM Board and Staff during the Family Huddle, celebrating a day of fellowship, encouragement, and hope. The EPCALM House in New Manila, Quezon City welcomed adult leukemia patients and their families for the Foundation's Family Huddle on 27 June 2026. The gathering was designed to foster meaningful connections, encourage the sharing of experiences, and strengthen the sense of hope, community, and support