EastWest announces the Magenta Race 2023 in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Kasuso Foundation

EastWest, as part of its corporate social responsibility program, is thrilled to announce the return of the Magenta Race, timed perfectly to coincide with Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The event is in partnership with the Kasuso Foundation, following up last year's initiative that showcased the caring side of EastWestbankers nationwide.

The Magenta Race is designed not only as a tribute to breast cancer warriors and survivors but also as a proactive step to spread awareness, promote early detection, and unite in solidarity against this pervasive disease. As with the previous year, the race will be a delightful mix of walk/run and bike categories, allowing participants of all fitness levels to partake, celebrate life, and contribute to a noble cause.

"We believe in making a difference beyond banking. Supporting initiatives that uplift the community is deeply embedded in our values. We are proud to bring back the Magenta Race, especially after the accolade we received from Digital Banker for our outstanding CSR efforts," remarked EastWest Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Ms. CJ Roque.

As breast cancer remains the most common type of cancer among Filipino women, and with EastWest being comprised of over 60% female employees, breast health continues to be an important cause for EastWest.

Overall, the program aims to empower women within the institution with knowledge about breast cancer via programs that create awareness, early detection and information on where to get support, instill a sense of altruism in employees by giving them an opportunity to give back to charitable causes, provide financial aid to underprivileged Filipina women for early detection of breast cancer with CSR partner Philippine Foundation for Breast Care, Inc. (PFBCI), continue the ongoing strong CSR partnership with PFBCI, and pave the way for the operationalization of future partnerships with other charitable institutions, and ultimately encourage employees to take on healthier and more active lifestyles.

Adding an exciting layer to the event, EastWestbankers have a unique opportunity to showcase their support by purchasing Magenta Race T-shirts. A significant portion of the proceeds from these sales will be directed towards the Kasuso Foundation, reinforcing EastWest's commitment to driving change and making a tangible difference. The Race kicked off on October 13 with 119 runners and 29 cyclists. The Bank is expecting more EastWestbankers to join during the race duration.

In addition to the race, the event will feature health checks and insightful symposiums on breast cancer prevention and awareness. These will be facilitated by Intellicare, EastWest’s trusted Health Maintenance Organization partner, ensuring that attendees leave with not just memories, but valuable knowledge that could be lifesaving.

EastWest encourages all its Bankers and the EastWest community at large to don their running shoes, hop on their bikes, or simply extend their support through the purchase of a T-shirt. Every stride, pedal, and purchase makes a difference in this battle against breast cancer.

The program’s features like the Magenta Race Virtual Challenge to Fight Breast Cancer – Virtual Walk, Run, and Bike Ride, Breast Health Care Campaign, and the various Fundraising activities are open to all interested and will definitely leave an indelible mark on the landscape of CSR, similar to the previous year’s efforts.

Last year, EastWest held its first-ever Magenta Race. It was a smashing success, with 145 athletes participating in the run/cycle contest, 1,192 total shirt orders, and Php380,000 donated to the Philippine Foundation for Breast Care, Inc. It also received an award from The Digital Banker Global Retail Banking Innovation Awards 2023 as the Best CSR Initiative.

So, to continue the momentum, EastWest invites everybody in the family to join us in our race for hope, health, and healing!