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

Marlene Laylo: Strong family bonds effectively ensure her healthcare and wellbeing. Patient Stories Series (No. 41) Marlene A. Laylo, 67, is a long-time serviced patient of the EPCALM Foundation. Diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in October 2014, she was initially given only three years to live. Today, more than a decade later, she continues to thrive through God’s grace and the exceptional support of her family. Now residing in Batangas, Marlene travels quart

Camello DLC Raagas , 33, is a father who has been battling chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) since 2018. Due to his condition, Camello lost his stable employment and now relies on intermittent encoding projects, leaving him unable to afford four of his five required medications. Following a critical hospitalization in August 2023, Camello is currently undergoing four chemotherapy sessions and requires a new medication, Dasatinib. Despite these hardships and a lifelong history o

EPCALM-serviced patients gathered at the EPCALM House in Quezon City over the past weekend, (25 April 2026) for a therapeutic macrame keychain crafting session. The EPCALM Foundation utilizes crafting therapy to promote mental well-being, reduce stress, and enhance self-expression among adult leukemia patients. Unlike traditional verbal therapy, this hands-on approach allows participants to focus on the present moment and experience a sense of accomplishment through creation.

Ehd's unwavering faith provides him with a sense of peace that transcended his physical limitations Patient Stories Series (No. 40) In the city of Imus, Cavite, Edrelino R. Garcia, 59—affectionately known as "Ehd"—lived a peaceful retirement with his wife, Geneveve. A former police officer, Ehd dedicated 40 years to serving and protecting various parts of the Philippines. Together, they found comfort in their suburban home, surrounded by the love of their three adult children

This is the leukemia story of Rolly B. Franco , a 34-year-old from Pampanga diagnosed with Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) in 2018. Following years of treatment and a BCR-ABL test (Breakpoint Cluster Region-Abelson Murine Leukemia) in October 2024, Rolly’s journey stands as a testament to faith and resilience. Rolly credits his progress to the support of his family, government programs, and organizations like EPCALM. Guided by his mother’s advice to focus on life rather th

Ernesto Laxamana: God’s grace and mercy, with his family’s support, helped him through his challenging leukemia journey. Patient Stories Series (No. 39) The leukemia journey of Ernesto P. Laxamana , 70, is a testament to resilience and the amazing power of family support. Originally from Concepcion, Tarlac, he moved to Angeles City, Pampanga, to build a better life for his family, establishing himself through his work as a tailor in Dau, Pampanga. His life took an unexpected

For 21 years, the EPCALM Foundation has served as a beacon of hope for adult leukemia patients and their families. As the country's first and only non-profit organization dedicated to this cause, we provide comprehensive spiritual, medical, and financial support throughout the leukemia journey. Following the success last year of its inaugural sold-out benefit dinner-concert, we are pleased to present "The Hope Gala 2026." The event will take place on Sunday, 17 May 2026, at 6

The rights and welfare of women and children must be safeguarded by everybody at all times. This principle was the focus of a recent capability-building webinar for Social Welfare and Development Agencies (SWDA), hosted by the Central Cluster of the Area-Based Standards Network (ABSNet). The EPCALM Foundation participated in this online session on 26 March 2026. Established by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), ABSNet brings together registered, license

Adrian Pol M. Intal , 24, from Sta. Maria, Minalin, Pampanga, is battling chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). He attributes his favorable and consistent improvement in his laboratory results to following his doctor’s treatment plan. Standard treatment protocols emphasize a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, hydration, gentle exercise, and adequate rest. He knows how critical it is to avoid infection risks, and adhere strictly to treatment plans in regular consult

John Patrick S. Regidor was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) in March 2023 at the age of 20. Following aggressive chemotherapy, the family celebrated a brief remission in late 2023. However, they faced the devastating news of a relapse in 2024. While his most recent bone marrow aspiration showed no leukemic cells, his hematologist has advised further chemotherapy; a bone marrow transplant is his best chance for long-term recovery. The financial toll on the Re

Nico S. Ugay: Strength found in prayers and family are vital in healing and recovery. Patient Stories Series (No. 38) Nico S. Ugay , 28, from Las Piñas City recalls his rollercoaster ride with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), which began in March 2016. He shares his leukemia journey’s ups and downs, which he said is a story of faith and resilience. His B-Cell ALL was diagnosis at the Philippine General Hospital following several episodes of fainting, fatigue, and dizziness.

Rizz Ann Maysia T. Perlado-Lozares , 30, found hope during her battle with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) by having a positive attitude, and through the support of her loved ones. The first hurdle was accepting her condition so she could focus on recovery rather than denial. She attributes her healing to God's grace, and the unwavering support of her community. Relatives provided financial assistance, while church members, friends, and neighbors offered constant encouragem

Camello de la Cruz Raagas: Hopeful to get full recovery some day through God’s mercy, and his family’s love. Patient Stories Series (No. 37) Camello DLC Raagas , a 33-year-old father, has been battling chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) since 2018. Despite his diagnosis, he expresses that his greatest struggle is not the illness itself, but the daily challenge of overcoming poverty to provide for his two children. His life has been marked by hardship. Following his parents' separ

Hector V. Valladolid Jr., 37, is a dedicated member of the EPCALM Foundation since April 2021. After a courageous battle with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), Hector’s oncologist confirmed in September 2022 that he is officially in remission. While Hector continues to face physical challenges, including significant hearing loss, he remains remarkably positive. He has adapted through lip-reading and continues to be an active participant in his spiritual community, regularly

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