October marks the beginning of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, focused on spreading awareness and access to resources to support people living with cancer.
According to the World Health Organization, 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020. It can occur in women with no specific risk factors other than sex and age. Breast cancer is currently the world’s most prevalent cancer.
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Meanwhile, the Philippine Institute for Development Studies reported that the country has one of the lowest screening rates of breast and cervical cancer in the world. “Only about one percent or 540,000 out of 54 million women undergo cancer screening,” their official website stated.
This is why promoting awareness and providing resources are of utmost importance. During the month of October, here are just some of the many brands advocating for early detection through their own campaigns.
Crimson Hotel Filinvest City’s Passionately Pink Campaign
From October 4 to 24, Crimson Hotel Filinvest City is hosting an art and fashion exhibit titled “Pop Of Pink.” Filled with inspiring creations, every purchase will benefit StageZero by Project Pink Support Group’s breast cancer initiatives.
Acrylic on canvas, 48 x 36 inches | Image courtesy of South Arts Festival
Some of the featured artists include Janddie Castillo, Markus Jentes, Nikki Vasallo, and Raphael Barroso. One-of-a-kind exclusive fashion items from Beatriz Art & Accessories will also be on display and available for purchase.
The exhibit is part of Crimson Hotel’s Passionately Pink campaign, a month-long commitment to breast cancer awareness and support. The launch event included a panel discussion featuring guests from StageZero by Project Pink Support Group Inc. Dra. Aldine Basa, the Head of the Breast Center at Asian Hospital and The Medical City, and Pinky Tobiano—a mother, cancer warrior, chemist, and philanthropist—were also in attendance.
The hotel is also offering special promotions to raise funds for the cause. With the Bloom in Pink Room Package, a portion of the proceeds will go towards supporting StageZero by Project Pink Support Group Inc. Meanwhile, on October 20, the Uncork Hope Wine Festival, a fundraising event, will take place in the Lobby Lounge of Crimson Hotel. Enjoy a selection of fine Chilean (Montes) and Argentinian (Kaiken) wines all while contributing to a meaningful cause.
Araneta City’s Benefit Art Exhibit
In collaboration with the non-profit Kasuso Foundation, Araneta City has also organized a benefit art exhibit. The exhibit was initially at the Gateway Mall until October 9. It will be moved to Ali Mall from October 23 to 27.
Titled “SUSUportahan Kita,” the exhibit gathers artworks with diverse styles, practices, and backgrounds. Some of the participating artists are breast cancer patients or survivors. Others are those who were inspired by stories of loved ones affected by the disease. Proceeds from the sale of the art pieces will go to Kasuso Foundation’s early detection and patient support programs.
Marco Polo Ortigas Manila Goes Pink
On October 1, the facade of Marco Polo Ortigas Manila lit up in pink, marking the beginning of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Partnering with The Medical City and the Akbay Ginhawa Foundation, they will have several projects lined up, contributing to fighting breast cancer and supporting patients.
On all Thursday nights this month, the hotel will be donating a portion of the proceeds from full-paying adult buffet diners in Cucina and Cafe Pronto. Specifically, those who will purchase the Ruby Chocolate Mousse Cake. The dessert has the delicate flavor of hazelnut sponge, ruby chocolate, plain crème brulee, and strawberry jam. It is priced at Php 1,900 net.
AIA Philippines’ Hope For The Breast Program
This October, life insurance company AIA Philippines launched its program that aims to protect women and their loved ones from breast cancer, spreading awareness, education, and protection from the disease.
In partnership with The Medical City, the company’s Hope Mobi Clinic is a truck fitted with a mammogram machine to facilitate breast cancer screening in various communities. Starting in San Juan and Pasig, the mobile clinic will also travel to grassroot communities.
Along with the Hope Mobi Clinic, the company also launched an insurance plan called AIA Breast Cancer Protect Lite. A fixed coverage of Php 50,000 will be provided should the insured get diagnosed with breast cancer. As the first AIA Philippines product available online, the goal is to make breast cancer coverage affordable and accessible to those who need it most.
Banner image: “Blossom For Me” by Markus Jentes, courtesy of South Arts Festival.
