Building ‘communities of hope’ QC Mayor lauds EPCALM mission to help leukemia patients, families
- EPCALM
- May 28
- 1 min read
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 Trustees, she highlighted the importance of the “communities of hope” built by EPCALM, to ensure that no one faces leukemia alone.Mayor Belmonte also recognized the vision of EPCALM Founder, Dr. Erlyn Cabanag-Demerre, for transforming personal loss into a lifelong mission of service.
EPCALM is named in honor of Atty. Erwin P. Cabanag, the elder brother of Dr. Demerre. Atty. Cabanag, who served as the City Fiscal of Dumaguete City, passed away from leukemia on 12 May 2005, at the age of 42. His journey inspired the vision to establish the first adult leukemia non-profit organization in the Philippines.
Furthermore, she paid tribute to the courage of the Foundation’s patients and families, while acknowledging the compassion of the healthcare workers, volunteers, and partners who make EPCALM’s work possible.
As Mayor Belmonte stated, “Hope becomes stronger when communities come together to care for one another.” The QC Government shares the commitment of EPCALM to ensuring that “healthcare is accessible and responsive to the needs of every family we serve.” (MPDuran)
Comments