Under a canopy of hope and pink, the annual Pink Ball held at the Shangri-la Fort united champions in the fight against breast cancer
The month of October heralds a vital time for honoring strength, resilience, and the ongoing fight against breast cancer. This year, the Estée Lauder Companies hosted The Pink Ball, an annual charity dinner dedicated to raising funds in support of partner organization St. Luke’s Medical Foundation Inc. Garnering PHP 9.8 million, the gala exceeded their set goal of PHP 5 million, allowing for expanded access to breast screenings to a mobile clinic, addressing the critical need for early detection in underserved communities. The event brought together esteemed personalities and key supporters of the cause, including Tessa Prieto, Kaye Tinga, Tim Yap, and One Mega Group Inc., to champion awareness, cultivate community involvement, and foster a united front against breast cancer.
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Held at the Shangri-la Fort, the evening radiated an atmosphere of unity, purpose, and solidarity. Attendees graced the event clad in refined ensembles, each attire featuring a touch of pink—a color that has long stood as a beacon of hope and empowerment within the community.
As guests mingled and engaged in meaningful conversations on the cause, the evening unfolded as a celebration of resilience, underscoring that the gala was more than a fundraiser but a powerful testament to what the power of collective commitment can achieve in the battle against the disease.
The charity gala opened with a performance led by guest conductor and musician Anya Lagman, who composed and scored the Estée Lauder Companies Philippines’ official theme song for the Breast Cancer Campaign. With passion and precision, she guided the Philharmonic Orchestra, conjuring a rich tapestry of sound that enveloped the venue. The powerful crescendos and harmonies of these two musical luminaries truly set the tone for the evening.
Guests were warmly welcomed by Sharyn Wong, Country General Manager of the Estée Lauder Companies Philippines. She recounts the beginnings of the Pink Ribbon, the brand’s largest corporate social impact program, which was established 32 years ago by Evelyn H. Lauder, late Chairman of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
“[Evelyn Lauder] had a vision to have a world without breast cancer, and today, her legacy endures, uniting employees, consumers, and partners to continue pioneering her vision,” Wong shared. “Since its launch in 1992, together with the Estée Lauder Companies Charitable Foundation, it has raised more than $131 million for lifesaving global research.”
As part of the evening’s inspiring program, attendees watched an impactful video highlighting stories of hope and survival in the battle against the disease. Following this moving presentation, cancer survivors were invited to stand, including chemist Pinky Tobiano and businesswomen Sheila Romero and Audrey Go, allowing the audience to celebrate their strength and resilience.
In line with its global mission, guests engaged in an auction, allowing them to place their bids on a diverse selection of items. Among the highlights of donations from generous contributors included a 10-12 mm semi-baroque gold pearl strand by luxury brand Jewelmer and the coveted ‘miracle broth’—a limited edition Créme de la Mer by La Mer. Guests could also avail of a portrait session with celebrity photographer BJ Pascual in partnership with Estée Lauder’s hair and makeup services.
Art was in full bloom as unique pieces by local artists lined the halls of the venue. This includes a thought-provoking Jose Rizal-inspired artwork by Carlo Tanseco, La Vie en Rose by Katrina Cuenca, and Rebirth of Hope by abstract artist Kenneth Montegrande. Two sculpture pieces The Circle of Life and The Flower of Life were also donated by Paris-based designer Patrick Coard to the auction. Such offerings allowed guests to take home a piece of the evening’s spirit in support of breast cancer awareness.
The auction also showcased a selection of flights and accommodations donated by leading airlines and hotels. Guests had the chance to bid on round-trip tickets by Philippine Airlines and Sunlight Air, as well as accommodations at Shangri-La Boracay and Sunlight Ecotourism Island Resort in Coron, not to mention an indulgent stay at Shangri-La Paris. These exclusive travel packages invited attendees to bid on their next getaway while supporting breast cancer initiatives.
Though the grand affair has concluded, hope and camaraderie endure. The annual gala goes beyond a fundraising effort; more importantly, it’s a compelling reminder that the fight against breast cancer is a relentless one, urging everyone—supporters, survivors, and advocates alike—to take on a path toward early detection, awareness, and ultimately, a future free from the disease.
Featured Image and Photos by TIMOTHY DUEÑAS
