Mission/Vision

Make-A-Wish Foundation® Philippines is an affiliate of the world’s largest and most respected wish-granting organisation, Make-A-Wish Foundation® International. Our mission is to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.  Make-A-Wish® Philippines grants wishes to children in its territory, whatever economic status, gender and religion. Our vision is to reach every medically eligible child in the Philippines and bring hope for better times and happiness that each child deserves. 

History

It all started in 1980 with the first wish. Seven-year old Chris’ dream was to be a policeman. Chris had leukaemia, and those around him realised he may not have the chance to realise his dream. So, with the help of the local police, Chris had an amazing day during which he rode in a police helicopter, was sworn in as an honorary patrolman, presented with a custom-made uniform, helmet and badge, and given the chance to show off his motorcycling skills. The people involved in his wish were so moved by the experience, they pledged to continue to "Share the Power of a Wish"®.  

The Philippine affiliate was launched in December 1999 and has since grown into a reputable institution. On average we grant 12 new wishes every month. We constantly receive new referrals and with only two staff, we rely on our dedicated volunteers to help us grant wishes and raise funds for our mission. We currently have more than 30 volunteers and many of them are trained as Wish Granters.   

Board of Trustees, Officers and Staff

Board of Trustees

  • Kahlil Bagatsing – President
  • Ana Marie Chua – Vice President
  • William Kittenger Hevener – Corporate Secretary
  • Cecille Margarette Candano – Treasurer

Officers/Committee Heads

  • Ana Marie Chua – Wish Referral Head
  • Melyn Cauilan – Wish Referral Coordinator
  • Kritzia Santos – Wish Referral Coordinator
  • Cecille Margarette Candano – Wish Granting Coordinator
  • Jason Penaranda – Volunteer Management Coordinator
  • Koyen Cipriano – External Relations Coordinator

Staff

  • Jacqui Jacinto – General Manager
  • Melyn Cauilan – Administrative Officer

Financial Information

Majority of Make-A-Wish funds are spent on the carrying out of its mission to grant wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses. A small percentage is spent on operational functions. Financial statements and other documents are available upon request.

Fraud Alerts

Make-A-Wish does not participate in chain letters, telemarketing, door-to-door solicitation or other direct solicitation of wishes by non-MAWF volunteers. If you know of any such activities, please get all pertinent details including the name, number and information and report them immediately to Make-A-Wish®.