By: Nanju Francisco
Photos by: Von Francisco
Manama: In a landmark display of international solidarity, compassion, and community unity, hundreds of participants gathered at Gate 6 of The Avenues Mall on Saturday, September 5, 2026, for the “Kids Are Gold Walkathon.” Organized by the Smile Initiative—an initiative of the Future Society for Youth providing psychological and social support to children battling cancer and their families—the high-profile morning event successfully brought together local and expatriate communities in direct support of young cancer fighters across the Kingdom.
The high-profile event was graced by key officials and members of the organizing committee, led by Mr. Sabah Abdulrahman Al Zayani, Chairman of the Future Society for Youth. Among the distinguished dignitaries in attendance were Mr. Yusuf Lori, Director of Information & Follow Up at the Capital Governorate; H.E. Gines Jaime Ricardo D. Gallaga, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to the Kingdom of Bahrain, and H.E. Asako Okai, Ambassador of Japan to the Kingdom of Bahrain. Joined by representatives from various diplomatic missions, civic leaders, and hundreds of families, their active participation underscored a powerful, shared commitment across international communities to ensure no child faces pediatric cancer alone.
Held as part of the annual “Kids Are Gold” campaign during International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the walkathon elevated public awareness around the gold ribbon, which serves as the international symbol for childhood cancer. Participants of all ages walked along the waterfront promenade wearing gold ribbons and carrying messages of encouragement to honor the brave young patients. The strong turnout from various local and expatriate communities, alongside diplomatic delegations, showcased the warm, inclusive, and compassionate spirit that characterizes the Kingdom of Bahrain.
In an exclusive interview with Pinoy Aksyon News, Ambassador Gines Jaime Ricardo D. Gallaga emphasized the importance of supporting such cause-driven endeavors.
“Today’s event is a meaningful one because it is for a cause—for children with cancer,” Ambassador Gallaga shared. He highlighted that the Philippine Embassy has long been an active collaborator with the Smile Initiative, noting that participating in the walkathon reflects a noble responsibility to support young patients and their families while reaffirming the embassy’s ongoing partnership with the foundation.
Ambassador Gallaga further commended the active involvement of the Filipino community and its leaders, describing their participation as a clear reflection of solidarity with the host nation.
“We have various community groups and leaders here; we are part of the Bahraini society, and we are one with the people of Bahrain,” he remarked. Noting that Bahrain serves as a home for many Filipinos, he reiterated that helping children battling cancer is a noble cause where the community and embassy remain eager to do their part.
A representative from the Smile Initiative noted that seeing diplomats, community leaders, and families from different cultural backgrounds walk hand in hand sends a powerful signal of hope to young fighters and their families. The organizers extended their sincere gratitude to all participants, diplomatic guests, volunteers, and venue partners who contributed to the resounding success of the event.
