THE pandemic that the world is experiencing now has brought out the goodness in a lot of people’s hearts. Charity events and initiatives have been carried out left and right.
Philanthropist Cathy Binag is one of those who have never forgotten to extend a helping hand. With the current situation, she has partnered with several people, from fashion designer to celebrities.
Binag shared that this is the time when Filipinos need help the most. Thus, she decided to auction a number of her luxury items. She has already auctioned some of her most precious signature watches, designer bags and shoes, and pieces of jewelry. The proceeds she uses to fund the production of personal protective equipment (PPE) and other essentials for distribution.
In an interview, she shared how her experience of having none motivated her to do what she has been doing all these years.
“To be honest, kung alam mo talaga ‘yung feeling na wala ka, or wala kang makain, wala kang matakbuhan, wala kang makuhanan, gipit, is hindi ka na magdadalawang-isip na tumulong,” she said.
Binag has also collaborated with world-renowned Filipino designer Puey Quiñones to produce PPE. She narrated that it was the latter who approached her to work on the project together.
“I approached her and asked if we could collaborate, and fortunately, she agreed. She donated the fabrics and helped with the labor," said the designer who was once part of “America’s Next Top Model Cycle 21”.
So far, this project between the woman behind Davao City’s The White House Fusion Cuisine & Wine Lounge and the designer of Katy Perry’s “Dark Horse” music video has already benefitted 20 hospitals.
“Sa pandemya na ‘to, ang lahat ng bagay, kahit gaano ka kasikat, kahit gaano ka kayaman, balewala ngayon. Lahat tayo ay pantay-pantay. Kapag tinamaan tayo, lahat ng meron tayo ngayon, lahat ‘to ay temporary lang. So, wake up call ‘to. I think, this is a wake up call from God na matuto tayong ma-appreciate ang mga bagay-bagay sa simpleng paraan,” Binag pointed out.
Apart from their partnership, Binag has also assisted various celebrities in their respective charity campaigns. She has donated at least 1,000 improvised face shields to each of them. Among these artists are Ruffa Gutierrez, Derek Ramsay, Bea Alonzo, Ai-Ai delas Alas, Vhong Navarro and Kim Chiu.
Binag may have given so much already, but, she is committed to do more in order to help more.
Kudos, Ma’am Cathy!
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