Instead of a traditional celebration for his 60th birthday, Mayor Ruding Gonzales of Mexico, Pampanga, spearheaded an outreach program on Saturday, June 20, 2026, providing financial assistance to some 400 cancer patients in the town.
Mayor's Personal Decision
Gonzales explained that he never liked grand birthday parties. "Ayaw ko naman talaga mag-celebrate ng birthday, hindi ko hilig ang ganun. Pero naisip ko, tulungan nalang ang mga cancer patients kasi sila 'yung hindi regular na nakakatanggap ng tulong," he said. The mayor emphasized that cancer patients often lack consistent support compared to others.
Institutionalizing Assistance
The mayor revealed he is coordinating with the municipal council to create a regular program for cancer patients. "'Yung kasing mga dialysis patients may regular na natatanggap sila, ang sabi ko dapat maisama na itong mga cancer patients next year para dire-diretso din ang tulong sa kanila," Gonzales stated.
Impact on the Community
The outreach event benefited around 400 individuals battling cancer, providing them with much-needed financial aid. This initiative highlights the mayor's commitment to addressing healthcare gaps in the town. By institutionalizing the program, Gonzales aims to ensure continuous support for cancer patients starting next year.
