Ilonggo pulmonologist Rollin Tabuena honored at BDWP 2026 gala

Fashion took on a deeper purpose as Manila’s society, diplomatic, business, and cultural circles gathered at Shangri-La The Fort in Bonifacio Global City for the 23rd Annual Best Dressed Women of the Philippines (BDWP) Awards Gala.

The Sept. 22, 2026, celebration brought together nearly 700 guests for an evening where personal style, professional achievement, and philanthropy shared the spotlight.

Beyond the elegant creations and distinguished personalities, the occasion delivered an impressive result: PHP 30,087,700 raised for the Philippine Cancer Society (PCS), with 100 percent of the proceeds dedicated to programs and services supporting cancer patients, particularly indigent Filipinos.

Among the evening’s notable honorees was Ilonggo pulmonologist Dr. Rollin Tabuena, who received the prestigious Men of Exemplary Influence award in recognition of his commitment to health care and community service.

For Tabuena, whose medical career reflects a dedication to patient welfare, the distinction carried meaning beyond personal recognition.

His appearance on the runway in a Rafael Gonzalez creation celebrated not only his individual achievements but also the growing recognition of medical professionals whose influence extends beyond their clinical practice.

“And I am very much honored to be awarded as Men Of Influence for my unwavering health service,” Tabuena said, expressing his appreciation for the recognition.

His inclusion among the awardees also placed an Ilonggo medical professional alongside distinguished figures from business, the arts, medicine, and public service.

The Men of Exemplary Influence honorees included Moumen Aldaker, Dr. Exequiel “Bing” Yumang, David Kaufman, artist Dominic Rubio, Luis “Cocoy” Cordoba, Dr. Dean Patrick Reyes, Dr. Edzel Magtoto, and Dr. Jeffrey James Co.

The celebration also recognized notable personalities such as Enrique Chua, internationally acclaimed furniture designer Kenneth Cobonpue, and Hall of Fame honoree Shy Tan, alongside Fatima “Pat” Figaroa Alvarez.

Adding star power to the occasion were Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, who appeared in a striking creation by Davao-based designer Wilson Limon, actor Richard Yap, and acclaimed singer Martin Nievera, whose performance brought a musical highlight to the festivities.

Yet the evening’s most meaningful achievement was measured not in awards or appearances but in the support extended to Filipinos confronting cancer.

Founded in 2004 by Consul Helen Ong through the initiative of the late PCS chairman Dr. Roberto Montilla Paterno, BDWP has evolved into one of the country’s longest-running charity fashion events.

Under Ong’s leadership and with the support of the organization’s board, the annual gathering continues to bring together influential personalities who use their platforms to advance cancer care and patient assistance.

A tangible result of that commitment is the Helen M. Ong Patient Services and Multi-Purpose Hall, inaugurated earlier in 2026 and fully funded by BDWP to provide improved facilities and support for cancer patients and their families.

The facility illustrates how contributions gathered during a society celebration can translate into services that extend well beyond the ballroom.

For Tabuena, the recognition also reinforces the importance of medical professionals participating in charitable initiatives that connect health care with compassion and community engagement.

As the evening concluded, the gowns, music, and applause gave way to a more enduring achievement: millions of pesos committed to cancer care and a collective reminder that influence carries its greatest value when it improves the lives of others.