The Best Dressed Women of the Philippines (BDWP), a prestigious fundraising event dedicated to benefiting the Philippine Cancer Society (PCS), once again brings together prominent women from various fields who are committed to helping cancer patients across the country.

This event has been a cherished tradition for nearly two decades. What started as a small initiative by Helen Ong, Consul of Angola, to support the Philippine Cancer Society, has grown into a significant philanthropic effort. From its humble beginnings with just a few volunteers, it has evolved into a major event with widespread impact. Just last year, it raised P22 million, all of which was donated to the Philippine Cancer Society.

This year, the event proudly welcomes 20 remarkable women and eight Men of Influence from a variety of fields, including doctors, artists, and business leaders. Among the notable individuals supporting the cause are Dr. Ma. Daisy P. Tabuena, Dr. Rollin Tabuena, Anna Orlina, Ces Rodriguez, Antonette Gutierrez, Michelle Takijima, Ces Miranda, Jill Tan, Dr. Maricar Threadgill, Doyee Tumpalan, Ina Sarosa and others.

Last June, the benefactors gathered for a private shopping party at Roger Vivier in Greenbelt 3, Makati. This exclusive event, held on June 27, was attended by the board members of the BDWP, media partners, and the awardees, who were accompanied by their loved ones.

The small gathering provided an opportunity for the women to connect with each other and engage in conversations with the media partners about the initiative. Additionally, attendees had the chance to explore the season’s limited-edition pieces and iconic collections of Maison Vivier.

Consul Helen Ong, the chairman of the BDWP, was joined by board members, including Consul Betty Chua, Flora Chua, Sheree Chua, Eisa Mercado, Mario Katigbak, Froilan Gonzales, Charlie Rufino, Bo Muralla, Maymay Liechtenstein, Dr. Mildred Vitangcol, Agnes Huibonhua, Elaine Rojas Villar, and Consul Marian Ong.  The members of the selection committee 2024-2025 include the following, namely, David Ackerman, Yolly Ayson, Ruby Chua, Mags Cue, AJ Olpindo, Anna Sia, and Agile Zamora.

Notable figures like Dr. Ma. Daisy Tabuena, attended with her husband, Dr. Rollin Tabuena, a distinguished pulmonary doctor, to show their support. The event was also graced with the presence of Anna Orlina, a talented glass artist and daughter of the renowned Ramon Orlina, also lending support to this worthy cause. The Manila Bulletin had the chance to chat with them during the private shopping party. 

Dr. Daisy shared that she has always been supported by Dr. Rollin, the reason why she also has the confidence to join grand events like this despite being shy.

“This kind of event gives a great help with this problem. I like that they are also into research. I'm honored and touched to be part of this cause,” she said. “My biggest supporter is my husband, Doctor Rollin. He’s highly supportive of me in significant moments like this, and whenever we have community events and services. We also see the other side of being a doctor.”

Both are deeply committed to the cause as they frequently witness the struggles of cancer patients in their province and profession, particularly concerning hospitalization costs and the disease's impact.

“Specifically for cancer, some patients choose not to undergo treatment due to financial constraints. Access to treatment remains a challenge,” Dr. Daisy shared. “We should work together for cancer patients, especially those in the provinces, to have better opportunities and access to the best treatment. We could make it more convenient and accessible for them through initiatives like this.”

When asked about her views in fashion, Dr. Daisy sees it as a form of self-expression and creativity. “Fashion communicates our thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and perspectives without words. It speaks for us,” she explained.

She mentioned that she prefers a style that is both comfortable and reflective of her identity. She looks up to Heart Evangelista for her significant influence in both local and international fashion, and to Jennifer Aniston for her effortlessly chic elegance. 

Dr. Daisy’s husband, Dr. Rollin, was also recognized as one of this year’s Men of Influence. This distinction is part of the BDWP initiative from 2021 when the committee decided to make a coffee table book that featured 72 best dressed ladies and 25 influential men.

Dr. Rollin Tabuena is a renowned Pulmonary Medicine expert who has received multiple awards for exemplary performance in his field. His charismatic personality has also gained him fame.

In addition to their medical careers, the Tabuena Doctors are known figures in the fashion world. They have been part of prestigious events and magazines, such as on the cover of Cream Magazine in 2012 and at the FAAABVLOUS XI event in 2023. These highlight their commitment to their profession and influence in the fashion world.

Anna Orlina, on the other hand, expressed her honor at being invited by Helen Ong, herself, to be part of the Best Dressed Women of the Philippines.

“It means a lot to me. My father would often donate pieces for auctions and charity. And this cause is close to my heart because one of my aunts had breast cancer, which also affected my mom,” she said. “It’s one of the life experiences that has deeply impacted me.”

She believes that the event is an effective way to raise awareness about cancer. “Anything that could help a cause is good. I feel like all these beautiful women will certainly catch people’s attention to the cause. It’s good publicity for everyone in a positive way,” she said.

As an artist, Anna's style is characterized by bold, unconventional choices. She loves experimenting with vibrant and distinctive pieces. Her top fashion tip is to understand one’s body type and skin tone before purchasing clothes or accessories, as this knowledge can help one choose pieces that best complement their appearance.

“Knowing your body type and color can help you select pieces that enhance your features,” Anna emphasized. “It makes the process of buying clothes more effective, allowing you to filter out items that suit you best.”

These three personalities highlight the true significance of the event. They show that public figures can excel in their careers while using their influence to inspire and support others. Their dedication to their professions and passion for the fashion industry reflects a genuine commitment to making a positive impact on those around them.

This mirrors how the Best Dressed Women of the Philippines is taking a monumental step forward this year.

“We used to beg for help, but now people volunteer. We no longer need to plead,” Helen stated. “People believe in advocacy. Everything goes from there.” The advocacy reflects Helen’s experience and teamwork with the PCS team, which continues to thrive.

The Best Dressed Women of the Philippines Awards Ball 2024 will take place on September 20, 2024, at Shangri-LA The Fort, Manila, Taguig. Likewise, the awardees will be featured in the 2024 Limited Edition BDWP Coffee Table Book.

The Philippine Cancer Society remains dedicated to helping cancer patients by providing financial support, community projects, education and information, services, and research to advance cancer control programs.