EastWest, one of the fastest-growing banks in the country today, was recently awarded “Best CSR Initiative” by The Digital Banker at the Global Retail Banking Innovation Awards for the Bank’s project “Magenta Race,” a virtual run/walk and cycle for breast cancer.

In its debut year, EastWest employees rallied to raise funds for breast cancer detection and prevention of the beneficiaries of Philippine Foundation for Breast Care Inc. (PFBCI), also known as Kasuso.org. This was done through the launch of the very first Magenta Race—a virtual run/walk and cycle for breast cancer, which was able to raise a significant amount through the employees’ personal donations. The choice of magenta, a deeper shade of the pink that is associated with cancer awareness, wishes to express EastWest’s deeper commitment to this cause.

A total of 145 employees took part in the first ever EastWest Magenta Race, with 94 joining the run/walk, and 51 joining the cycle race. Proceeds coming from the registration fee, which included Magenta Run shirts, were collected as donations to PFBCI. But, notably, many of those who could not join the race itself still purchased shirts or made an outright donation to aid in the contributions.

Leading the Charge in the War Against Breast Cancer

During the awarding, EastWest expressed gratitude for the acknowledgement of their efforts, while also committing to continued efforts in the name of women and the fight against breast cancer.

“Thank you for this incredible honor. We at EastWest are humbled to accept the best CSR Initiative Award, and we would like to extend our gratitude to The Digital Banker for seeing and recognizing our efforts. In the Philippines, breast cancer is the top illness among women, and EastWest being powered by 66 percent females, led by a female President, and founded by the first Filipina President in the banking industry, we wanted to support a cause that touches the hearts of so many of our people,” said Carmina Jeanne D. Roque, EastWest Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications.

“So, we organized the Magenta Race, uniting our employees in a virtual race to raise funds for the Philippine Foundation for Breast Care. We are grateful for the unwavering support of our EastWest family. Our people showed incredible dedication, with many participants and generous contributions, and this recognition is a testament to the power of unity and commitment within our community. We at EastWest are determined to make a difference, to save lives, and to continue our journey of empowerment and awareness. Let’s keep the magenta flame of hope and compassion burning bright in our hearts,” concluded Roque.

Second Magenta Race Continuing the Legacy

Now on its second annual run, EastWest carries on its advocacy for breast cancer awareness by inviting more bikers and runners to participate. The second Race kicked off last October 13 with 119 runners and 29 cyclists.

For the ongoing and future Magenta Race events, EastWest and its employees will continue to don their running shoes, hop on their bikes, or simply extend their support through the purchase of a T-shirt, knowing that every stride, pedal, and purchase makes a difference in this battle against breast cancer.