MANILA, Philippines – Now on their second year as ambassadors of the Celebrity Ukay-Ukay, Kapuso stars Tom Rodriguez and Carla Abellana graced the launch of the annual fund-raising activity at the World Trade Center on Nov. 26. Pre-loved and exclusive items from various stars and news personalities are on sale for the benefit of GMA Kapuso Foundation’s various projects for underprivileged Filipino children.
“Making a difference in the lives of others takes hard work, perseverance and a lot of heart,” shares GMAKF EVP and COO Mel Tiangco. “We are grateful for Tom and Carla’s continued generosity, as well as that of our other celebrity donors, because their support has been instrumental in the fulfillment of the foundation’s many projects.”
Carla, who is busy with her shows Ismol Family, Del Monte Kitchenomics, Karelasyon and Because of You, made time to sort out items to be sold and auctioned at the Celebrity Ukay-Ukay, while also encouraging fellow stars to contribute to the project. “It’s always a pleasure to lend a hand. With God’s help, Tom and I will work harder this year so GMA Kapuso Foundation can build more classrooms and more schools,” she shares on her Instagram.
Tom also expressed his gratitude to his friends in the industry who supported the project. “Napakalaking tulong ang ibinibigay ninyo sa mga kababayan nating nasalanta ng bagyong Yolanda, maging ang lahat ng mga tinutulungan ng GMA Kapuso Foundation ay nagpapasalamat din sa inyo.”
Aside from Tom and Carla, among the Kapuso artists who participated and donated items to make the fundraising activity possible were Christian Bautista, Dennis Trillo, Alden Richards, Betong Sumaya, Joyce Ching, Chariz Solomon, Kevin Santos, Jessa Zaragoza and Eugene Domingo.
GMA News and Public Affairs personalities have also given pre-owned items, including Arnold Clavio, Rhea Santos, Susan Enriquez, Suzi Entrata-Abrera, Nelson Canlas, Lhar Santiago, Cesar Apolinario and Nathaniel “Mang Tani” Cruz.
Tom and Carla’s Celebrity Ukay-Ukay is moving to the SMX Convention Center on Dec. 18 to 20.
One-hundred percent of the proceeds will fund projects intended for school development, distribution of basic school supplies and, in line with the season of love and giving, special Christmas projects of the foundation.