AFTER its 4-year hiatus due to the pandemic, Everest International Academy resumed its annual benefit gala, called "Driven: A gala fueled by purpose and hope," at the Manila Polo Club on Nov. 10, 2023.
"Driven epitomizes the spirit with which the organizers, committee [chairmen] and members, in particular, of this event have relentlessly conducted their work to make this event a success, [and] also the spirit of every member of the Everest family," Benefit Gala Chairman and Chairman of the Philippine Veterans Bank Roberto de Ocampo said.
Everest Academy Executive Director Rosa Maria Lopez said the gala supported the mission of the beneficiaries and the academy in spreading the Kingdom of Christ in the Philippines.
"Tonight, we'll celebrate joy, camaraderie and the shared mission of a better tomorrow. Let us raise our glasses to a night of community and generosity," Lopez said.
The items in the auction included pieces from Everest's alumnus Ellis Co; an electric spinning bike from Finix Corp.; club cars from The Turf Company; two packages of invisible braces from Alina
Works from artists such as Dominic Rubio, Beejay Esber, Joey Cobcobo, Nilo Ilarde, Ejem Alarcon, Hae Ryun, Nunzio Paci, Vincent de Pio, Jomike Tejido, Aileen Lanuza, Katrina Cuenca, Juvenal Sanso, Ram Mallari, Arturo Luz and Imam Santoso were available for the auction.
Members of the Everest community also offered their services for the cause. Legionaries of Christ Representative and Chaplain Fr. Mauricio Guajardo offered to make his best paella and tres leches. The Consecrated Women of Regnum Christi would make an international dinner for the highest bidder. Fr. Simon Cleary had his five Mama Mary pyrography art for auction as well.
The proceeds of the auction would go to Everest International Academy, Legionaries of Christ and Consecrated Women of Regnum Christi, Family Missions and Family Youth and Mano Amiga Academy.
Guests were also treated with exquisite raffle prizes, a fashion show from Ellis Co and various entertainment performances to keep the night alive.