When they say don’t meet your idols, that doesn’t apply to our roster of exceptional change-makers recognized by the Philippine Cancer Society (PCS).

Before the much-awaited annual Gala Night, we enjoyed an afternoon meet-and-greet with this year’s candidates for Best Dressed Women of the Philippines and Men of Exemplary Influence from across the archipelago.

All candidates were in attendance representing Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao at the Saint Joseph The Worker Building, Paseo de Magallanes, Makati City. It was in partnership with BIZU Catering Studio and the SJW Building, both hosting an elegant experience for everyone.

We kicked off with some heartwarming messages — including one from dear tita Helen Ong, who is at the helm of all these beautiful efforts — and gave a much-deserved recognition to those who made this all possible: the Board of Directors, the Council of Advisers and the Selection Committee, which I’ve joined with the fabulous Mags Cue, Ruby Chua, Anna Sia, Mache Ackerman and Yoli Ayson. These ladies have made this responsibility much easier and more meaningful.