![“The Pharmally case... there are 46 respondents [in our complaint], kaya medyo matagal. And many of them have become invisible. Para bang they're trying to evade the jurisdiction of this body,” says Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla.](https://www.panaynews.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/plunder_copy_resized_resized-218x150.jpg "Ombudsman presses P11-B Pharmally plunder case But 23 respondents missing— Remulla")
BACOLOD City — The MassKara Festival’s 80s Party raised P700,000 to help cancer patients in Bacolod City, turning a night of music and nostalgia into a fundraising initiative for those undergoing treatment.
Bacolod City First Lady Maita Gasataya led the turnover of the donation to Faces Foundation Inc. during an event at a hotel in the city on October 14. The amount included proceeds from the party, as well as additional pledges and contributions from supporters.
Gasataya said she wanted the event to serve a greater purpose by extending assistance to children battling cancer, who have always been close to her heart.
“Children have always been close to my heart because they represent our future,” she said, explaining that the idea for the 80s-themed party eventually became an opportunity to raise funds for patients and their families.
She also cited her involvement in the Mai Meals Program, which provides assistance to communities across the city’s barangays, as part of her continuing commitment to helping those in need.
Faces Foundation chief executive officer Dr. Adonis Guancia underscored the importance of raising public awareness about cancer, particularly breast cancer, in Bacolod City.
Although the cancer center of the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital (CLMMRH) provides free services to patients, Guancia said many still need help covering transportation costs, vitamins and other daily necessities while undergoing treatment.
He said the hospital’s cancer center serves approximately 4,000 to 5,000 cancer patients monthly, highlighting the continuing need for support beyond medical services.
The donation is expected to help ease some of the financial and practical challenges faced by patients and their families throughout their treatment.
Despite the P1,500 ticket price, the event drew supporters who wanted to contribute to the cause.
The 80s Party featured performances by Jon Tupaz, MC John, Christian Canseco, Mojo Nova and other entertainers, combining music and entertainment with community generosity.
Gasataya said the initiative demonstrated how MassKara celebrations could go beyond festivities by creating opportunities to help vulnerable members of the community.
The fundraiser also reflected Bacolod’s culture of smiles through compassion, solidarity and support for families facing the difficult journey of cancer./PN
