Make-A-Wish Philippines has officially launched its 25th-anniversary celebration with Starlight, a night of recognition and gratitude held at One Serendra in BGC. The event honored the individuals and partners who have helped the nonprofit organization grant life-changing wishes to Filipino children with critical illnesses.
A key highlight of the celebration was the recognition of Make-A-Wish Philippines’ milestone 5,000th wish, granted in December 2024. The wish fulfilled the dream of Claire, a young girl who longed to visit Baguio City and create lasting memories with her mother. Thanks to the support of corporate partner MaxiLife and the Baguio City Mayor’s Office, Claire’s wish became a reality on her birthday, December 17.
During her trip, Claire was welcomed by Mayor Benjamin Magalong, treated to a special birthday brunch at Baguio Country Club, and taken on a tour of her dream destinations inspired by her favorite P-pop group, BINI. The experience brought immeasurable joy to Claire and her family, reinforcing the foundation’s mission of bringing hope and happiness to children facing medical challenges.
A legacy of hope, giving
Since its inception, Make-A-Wish Philippines has granted over 5,000 wishes, with 435 granted in 2024 alone. The organization continues to rely on the generosity of corporate partners, volunteers, and individual donors to fulfill its mission.
“Our journey over the past 25 years has been a powerful testament to hope and gratitude,” said Executive Director Aleah Ortiz. “As we look to the future, we are more committed than ever to bringing joy and strength to every child who needs it.”
Beyond granting wishes, volunteers play a crucial role in the foundation’s efforts. The Starlight event featured an awards ceremony recognizing exceptional volunteers, with categories like Most Enthusiastic, Most Innovative Genie, and Most Child-Focused highlighting the dedication behind every granted wish.
Recognizing community support
Make-A-Wish Philippines also honored its corporate partners whose generosity has helped bring thousands of wishes to life. The Marketplace, Toy Kingdom, and Hard Rock Cafe received the Agents of Joy Award for their support, while Metrobank was recognized for the Best Partner Fundraising Initiative. Jollibee Foods Corporation and RealMe were named New Wishmakers of the Year, celebrating their recent contributions to the organization’s mission. Meanwhile, MaxiLife and Fairmont were honored as Corporate Partners of the Year, reflecting their outstanding commitment to making dreams come true.
Attendees were also invited to participate in a message of hope activity, writing notes of encouragement for wish kids and their families.
As Make-A-Wish Philippines looks forward to its next 25 years, its mission to transform lives, one wish at a time remains steadfast.
“Tonight has reminded us about the profound impact that hope, strength, and community support can have in the lives of children and their families,” said Ferdinand L. Bondoy, Group Chief Executive Director of COMCO Mundo League of Enterprises, one of the organization’s strategic partners.
With a strong foundation of compassion and generosity, the future of Make-A-Wish Philippines is as bright as the dreams it continues to fulfill.