SAN PABLO CITY, LAGUNA – On October 30, 2025, the San Pablo City Multi-Purpose Convention Hall was not just a venue; it was a symphony of laughter, a canvas of beaming smiles, and the living heart of a community’s gratitude. The occasion was the third annual Birthday Outreach Program of Batalla Cares PH, an event that founder Wynona Franchezka Batalla described as far more than a party.
“This birthday outreach wasn’t just an event, it was a celebration of love, hope, and community,” Batalla reflected. For her, the day was defined by a powerful arithmetic of compassion: “400 kids but 800 hearts together with their guardians. 800 smiles. 800 reminders of why we continue to serve.”
As she turned 26, Wynona’s birthday cake was surrounded not by a few close friends, but by a sea of joyful children. For the third consecutive year, she had chosen to forgo a traditional celebration, transforming her special day into a tidal wave of joy for the youth of Barangay VI-B, San Gabriel, Bagong Pook, and beyond. “Seeing the joy on each child’s face reminded me that even the smallest act of kindness can change a life,” she shared.
“26 years of life, and the greatest gift is them,” Wynona reflected in a heartfelt social media post. “If I could make one birthday wish, it’s simply that this mission never stops. That every year, we reach more hands to hold, more smiles to protect, and more dreams to believe in.”
A Coalition of Generosity
The event’s massive scale was made possible by a coalition of generous partners and donors. From the familiar joy of McDonald’s San Pablo meals and the bouncing castles of Braine’s Bouncy World to the support of SM City San Pablo and the backing of local officials like Mayor Najie Gapaganda and Councilors Lyca Leyma-Luna and John Adajar, every contribution was a vital piece of the puzzle.
“Your contributions, whether through donated items or special discounts, helped us serve more children and families than we ever could on our own,” Batalla acknowledged. “Because of you, we were able to stretch every peso into something bigger and more meaningful.”
This sentiment was echoed by community partners. The Sangguniang Kabataan of Barangay VI-B, a long-time collaborator, expressed their deep appreciation, noting, “Ikatlong-taon na pong nakasama ang mga kabataan… sa mga aktibidad ng Batalla Cares, at bawat pagdiriwang ay tunay na nag-iiwan ng ngiti at inspirasyon sa mga bata.” (This is the third year our youth have joined Batalla Cares’ activities, and every celebration truly leaves smiles and inspiration with the children.)
For Wynona, the day culminated in a moment of faith and forward-looking hope. “And to God, who continues to guide and strengthen this advocacy, all glory and praise to You,” she said. Her birthday wish is simple yet profound: “Here’s to reaching more lives, spreading more smiles, and making a bigger impact every year. Together, we are unstoppable.”
The impact of the program was felt across barangays. Children from San Gabriel, accompanied by their local SK officials, left the event “na busog, masaya, at may bitbit pang mga laruan!” – a testament to the well-organized and heartfelt nature of the outreach. The success of the day was a collaborative effort, amplified by the support of Konsehal John Adajar, whose involvement helped expand the program’s reach to include even more children.
Behind the scenes, the event was powered by a dedicated network of support that Wynona was quick to acknowledge. She gave thanks “to my family… friends, and all the incredible Batallacares youth volunteers… They are the reason this little dream continues to grow.”
This sentiment highlights a key aspect of the initiative’s success: it has become a catalyst for youth volunteerism. The San Gabriel post proudly noted that their own SK Nicole is an official volunteer, showing how Wynona’s mission is inspiring a new generation to engage in community service.
The story of Batalla Cares PH is more than an annual charity event; it is a growing legacy. It proves that a single, selfless wish, amplified by the unwavering support of family, the energy of youth volunteers, and the generosity of a community, can create a sustained force for good. In a world often focused on personal gain, Wynona Franchezka Batalla and her team offer a powerful alternative: a life’s purpose found not in what you receive, but in the joyful, grateful eyes of 400 children, and the echoing warmth of 800 smiles.#
