Social causes such as homelessness are sometimes blessed by the attention of celebrities whose fame, success and status bring in public attention and funds for support. Organizations provide the daily services which alleviate the sufferings of the target groups. Gawad Kalinga through its fundraising arm, ANCOP and Ricky Cuenca have wisely asked former Philippine President Fidel Ramos and his wife Ming Ramos, to be the celebrities for a weekend fundraiser in Toronto. The Philippine Press Club Ontario (PPCO) invited them to speak at Casa Manila, which generously hosted the space and dinner. The media group composed mainly of publishers and editors, journalists and photographers of Filipino publications, radio, television, internet crowded the space to capacity. A few had to be turned away from overcrowding and forgetting their press and membership badges, a necessary security measure for entry. Ex-President Ramos has a sense of humour and he made the press laugh a few times during his speech. The Ramoses have their own foundation too and it was generous of them to agree to fundraise for another. The event was to be held in a hall with dinner, dance and entertainment for tickets at $65 each. Their trip supposedly raised several thousands for the cause of housing homeless in the Philippines. PPCO President Tenny Soriano also spoke and lots of photos and videos were taken throughout the night. There was also some singing before dinner for entertainment. Usually after the monthly press conference of the PPCO, where a guest speaker talks about their career, the member publications publish photos and articles about it. This publicity gives the Philippine community an indication that this has extra meaning and that special attention should be given towards this chosen speaker and his/her career. Being the former leader of the Philippines, of course ex-President Ramos deserves the honour of being the guest speaker, especially as the Ramoses continue to serve the Philippines through their foundation and fundraising efforts. It was interesting to note that former First Lady Ming Ramos was a badminton champion. The activities and careers of former and current politicians are actually more wholesome than we think. The evening ended with various members posing beside the Ramos couple for their publications and albums. It was a great success for all and everyone benefited from this night's meeting.
