The Sapphirus MassKarade Ball raised P1 million in donations for the victims of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, particularly in the Bicol Region, the Bacolod Yuhum Foundation announced on Monday, Oct 28.
The funds raised at the MassKarade Ball at the Roy’s Hotel and Convention Center in Bacolod City on Friday, were turned over to the GMA Kapuso Foundation.
Among the donors were Secretary Katrina Ponce Enrile – administrator and CEO of the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority, Cristalle Belo-Pitt – managing director of The Belo Group, businessman Willy Au and numerous Manila socialites who attended the ball, the BYF said.
“We are now making the most out of it, to be sensitive to what happened,” Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez said.
“We would like to show that we share their anguish in this trying and difficult times”, he said.
Jojie Dingcong, MassKara chairman, said “this festival aims to be more than a celebration, it’s a conscious, purposeful event to support those in need”.
Margarita Nograles, Philippine Tourism Promotions Board chief operating officer, assured attendees that TPB is working tirelessly to assist those affected by the calamity and to support tourism projects in Bacolod City.
“I assure you of the continued support of the Tourism Promotions Board in your endeavors. Together, we will attract more visitors and ensure that the spirit of the MassKara Festival continues to uplift and inspire.”
Enrile, said she was personally pledging P500,000 to GMA Kapuso for the people of Naga.
The Bacolod Yuhum Foundation recognized Chloe Cuenca Chua, Jeanette Gonzaga, Gin Gin Locsin, Margrey Sy, Ginnette Yanson Dumancas, Jerry Sy, and Leo Ray Yanson during the ball for their supporting BYF and the MassKara Festival.*