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

In observance of National Blood Donors Month, the EPCALM Foundation is holding a Voluntary Blood Donation Drive as part of our commitment to compassionate service. This initiative aims to help ensure an adequate and timely blood supply for the adult leukemia patients we serve who depend on life-saving blood transfusions. The Blood Drive is scheduled on Saturday, 25 July 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Henry Sy Sr. Auditorium, 5th Floor, St. Luke’s Medical Center-Glob

In a gesture of compassion and commitment to accessible healthcare, RiteMED Philippines Inc. donated maintenance medicines to the EPCALM Foundation for its serviced adult leukemia patients. The medicines were distributed during EPCALM Family Huddle on 27 June 2026 at The EPCALM House in New Manila, Quezon City. The donation is intended to support leukemia patients who rely on maintenance medications for chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and other long-term il

Hope is a fundamental human experience that serves as a powerful motivator, enabling individuals to overcome challenges, and aspire for a better future. Here is an inspirational story of hope. Shella May A. Lopera, 23, is from Norzagaray, Bulacan. She is currently navigating life with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). Diagnosed at 18, Shella May has faced numerous challenges, including financial constraints. Despite her circumstances, she remains a source of joy and streng

Patient Stories Series (No. 46) Reycah Ezekiel B. Pablo, 24, is a Civil Engineering student from Taguig City, Metro Manila; he is a Dean’s Lister at the University of Makati. Since his diagnosis with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) in October 2024, his life has changed significantly. To focus on his health, he has had to pause his studies, and his passion for playing guitar with his band and at their church. Despite these challenges, Reycah remains brave and determined. Gu

Marlene A. Laylo is a 67-year-old long-time patient of the EPCALM Foundation. Diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in October 2014 and initially given only three years to live, Marlene continues to thrive today through God’s grace and the exceptional support of her family.Residing in Batangas, Marlene travels quarterly to the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) in Quezon City for medical consultations and blood tests, which consistently show positive results.

The leukemia journey of Ernesto P. Laxamana, 70, from Angeles City, Pampanga, is a testament to resilience and the power of family support. Originally from Concepcion, Tarlac, Ernesto established a life for his family through his dedicated work as a tailor in Dau, Pampanga.His life took an unexpected turn following a diagnosis of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). However, supported by his wife, Resie, and their children, Ernesto transitioned from a period of struggle to on

We are thrilled to announce the release of the June 2026 issue of EPCALM News Online.This edition coincides with World Cancer Survivors Month and highlights the leukemia journeys of 10 EPCALM-serviced patients who have been officially declared cancer-free. Their stories of hope and triumph are deeply inspiring and serve as a powerful reminder of our mission.In times of uncertainty, these milestones underscore the vital role of the EPCALM Foundation in advancing social develop

EPCALM Foundation’s The Hope Gala 2026” on 17 May 2026 at Solaire Resort North, Quezon City was a resounding sold-out success! This landmark benefit dinner-concert brought together philanthropists and renowned artists to raise vital funds for adult leukemia patients and their families. Here are some highlights from that “memorable night of goodness and kindness,” as described by EPCALM Ambassador, King of Talk Boy Abunda. The concert was top-billed by Concert King, Martin

Patient Stories Series (No. 45) George C. Lee-Chuy, 63, was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) in 2013. At the time of his diagnosis, George and his family were overwhelmed with fear, believing that leukemia was an inevitable death sentence. However, today, George is cancer-free and has been in remission for over 10 years. Before his diagnosis, he lived a fast-paced life—partying, smoking, and rarely sleeping. Following a sudden collapse, he was eventually diagno

This is the inspiring story of Edrelino "Ehd" R. Garcia, a 59-year-old former police officer from Imus, Cavite. In 2011, while enjoying retirement with his wife, Geneve, Ehd was diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). Despite this diagnosis, Ehd remained undeterred, navigating this chapter of his life with the same dedication he applied to his decades of police service. Throughout his health challenges, he has remained a pillar of strength for his family. As a deep

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte recently commended the EPCALM Foundation for its mission and advocacy in supporting adult leukemia patients and their families.In a video message delivered during The Hope Gala 2026, held on 17 May 2026 at Solaire Resort North, Quezon City, Mayor Belmonte noted that for the past 21 years, EPCALM has “helped countless Filipinos face one of life’s most difficult battles with dignity and courage.” As an Honorary Member of the EPCALM Board of Trust

The EPCALM Foundation recently joined other patient groups of the Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations (PAPO) for its General Assembly held on 7 May 2026, at the Ardenhills Suites in Quezon City. The meeting focused on assessing the past year's performance, improving member communication, and outlining priority activities for the current year. During the assembly, PAPO President Christopher Munoz highlighted significant achievements in sustaining partnerships with gov

The Grand Ballroom of Solaire Resort North, Quezon City was transformed into a sanctuary of music and compassion on Sunday, 17 May 2026, as the EPCALM Adult Leukemia Foundation of the Philippines held its landmark benefit dinner-concert, “The Hope Gala 2026.” Bringing together the biggest names in Philippine entertainment and the country's most generous philanthropists, the evening served as a powerful fundraiser to support adult leukemia patients and their families. A Dialog

Margie with her “miracle” baby, Mhira Claire: Exemplifying emotional fortitude amid the challenges of her leukemia journey. Patient Stories Series (No. 44) Despite the challenges of 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 nav

Merlita Macalino: No one has to face the leukemia battle alone. Patient Stories Series (No. 43) Merlita B. Macalino, a 34-year-old mother of two from Macabebe, Pampanga, has been battling chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) since January 2021. Though initially overwhelmed by her diagnosis, Merlita has faced her illness with remarkable resilience and determination. Throughout her treatment, Merlita’s family has been her anchor. Her husband, John Phillip, and their children have

Shella May Lopera: Her journey is a powerful testament to the human spirit and the importance of hope. Patient Stories Series (No. 42) Shella May A. Lopera, a resilient 23-year-old from Norzagaray, Bulacan, is currently navigating life with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). Diagnosed at age 18, Shella May has faced numerous challenges, including an arduous path to a correct diagnosis during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite her health struggles and the financial constraints of

This is the inspiring story of Nico S. Ugay, 28, from Las Piñas City, who was diagnosed with B-Cell Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) in March 2016. After five years of rigorous treatment at the Philippine General Hospital, including chemotherapy and blood transfusions, Nico was declared in full remission in 2021. As of 13 March 2026, Nico has been declared cancer-free. Nico attributes his recovery to God’s grace mercy, a disciplined lifestyle, and the unwavering support of