Kapwa Ko Mahal Ko (KKMK) holds a special place in the hearts of Filipinos, not just for its groundbreaking public service but also for its beloved hosts. Among these iconic personalities is Connie Angeles, whose legacy as a television host and public servant continues to inspire generations.

From Showbiz Star to Public Service Icon
Connie Angeles rose to fame in 1963 with her outstanding performances in films like Trudis Liit and Eskwelahang Munti. Her natural charm on camera made her a household name, but it was her role in Kapwa Ko Mahal Ko that cemented her status as a media icon.

Angeles joined KKMK in 1983, initially as a substitute host when regular hosts were unavailable. “Mr. Mercado [Orly Mercado, KKMK’s president and founder] called me to pitch in for an absent host. That started it,” Angeles shared in the 49th Anniversary Special episode. Her partnership with Mercado became a pivotal moment in her career, with the esteemed broadcaster serving as her mentor in both hosting and public service.

Inspired by her mentor’s dedication, Angeles expanded her passion for public service by entering politics. She served as a two-term councilor and later as Vice Mayor of Quezon City, championing her advocacy for social welfare and healthcare initiatives. Yet, even with the demands of public office, Connie Angeles never left Kapwa Ko Mahal Ko, a testament to her enduring commitment to the show’s mission of uplifting the disadvantaged.

Honoring a Lifetime of Achievement
In recognition of her remarkable contributions to the television industry and her dedication to public service, Connie Angeles received the prestigious Ading Fernando Lifetime Achievement Award at the 35th Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) Star Awards for Television last year. This honor celebrates individuals who have significantly shaped the television industry and positively impacted countless lives.

In her acceptance speech, Angeles expressed heartfelt gratitude to Mercado, who paved the way for her involvement in public service through KKMK, the Philippines’ longest-running public service TV show.

In addition to her work in television and politics, Connie Angeles has been actively involved in improving healthcare access for Filipinos. Since 2001, she has served as the Executive Director for Health and Medical Programs at the SM Foundation. Under her leadership, the foundation has expanded its health and wellness programs, delivering critical medical services to underserved communities nationwide.

Kapwa Ko Mahal Ko airs on GMA Network every Saturday at 5:30 a.m. For more information on how to donate and take part in its advocacy, check this page.

Other Sources:  SM Foundation, Manila Standard

The spirit of Christmas came alive for young cancer warriors as Kapwa Ko Mahal Ko (KKMK) Foundation held its annual Pamaskong Handog para sa Batang K program at the German Moreno Studio in GMA Network. This heartwarming event brought smiles and inspiration to over 40 kids battling acute lymphoblastic/lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) and their families, reminding them they are not alone in their battle. 

KKMK Executive Director Margo Mercado emphasized that as Kapwa Ko Mahal Ko turns 49 years old this year, it remains steadfast in its mission to support children with ALL, not just during their chemotherapy but also through the critical monitoring phase of their treatment. “Through the Batang Kapwa (BK) program, we provide more than just medical care. We lay the foundation for resilience, creativity, and compassion in the leaders of tomorrow,” she said in her message.

As part of the initiative, the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health contributed vital resources, including educational booklets about ALL and monitoring record books for doctors and families to track each child’s condition, according to Mercado. These tools empower families with knowledge and ensure better coordination with healthcare providers.

GMA Sparkle Artists Bring Messages of Hope
This year's Pamaskong Handog featured performances by GMA Sparkle Artists Kim Perez and Gaea Mischa, who serenaded the children with heartfelt songs. Gaea, an accomplished young artist and 2018 Champion of the World Division Winner at the World Championship of Performing Arts (WCOPA), noted that singing for the Batang K beneficiaries is one way of inspiring them to keep fighting and to remind them that they are loved.

“We love you so much. Stay strong, kids!", Gaea, who also distributed gifts to the BKs, said.

GMA actor and commercial model Kim Perez echoed her sentiments, expressing his joy in being part of the event. “I participate because I want to share the blessings I’ve received this year and in years past,” he said. 

Perez, who plays a role in the upcoming second season of hit GMA Primetime series Lolong, also posted on his Instagram a group photo with the Batang K kids with the caption: “Happy 49th Anniversary @kapwamahalkoph, I'm happy to be part of this event, at makapag bigay saya sa mga batang to.”

The children and their families were also delighted to receive thoughtful gifts from donors and sponsors, which added to the festive atmosphere. They also actively participated in games and activities to help boost their mind, body, and spirit.

BK was launched in 1989 to provide holistic support to children diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Through financial assistance, emotional care, and community-building activities, the program has transformed the lives of young warriors and their families, offering them a fighting chance against this formidable disease.

For more information on how to support Batang Kapwa and its life-changing initiatives, visit this page. Every small act of kindness helps these brave children in their journey to recovery.

For nearly 50 years, Kapwa Ko Mahal Ko (KKMK) has been a steadfast source of hope for underprivileged Filipinos battling life-threatening illnesses. At the heart of our mission lies Batang Kapwa (BK)—a program launched in 1989 to provide holistic support to children diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Through financial assistance, emotional care, and community-building activities, BK has transformed the lives of young warriors and their families, offering them a fighting chance against this formidable disease.

A Tough Diagnosis, a Tougher Journey
ALL primarily affects children under 10 and is one of the most common forms of pediatric cancer. In the Philippines, 14 children are diagnosed with cancer every day, with more than half battling ALL.

Treatment offers hope, but it comes at a steep cost. Chemotherapy, which spans 120 weeks for girls and 140 weeks for boys, can cost families upwards of Php 950,000—far beyond what many can afford. Even with assistance from government programs like PhilHealth's Z Package (covering Php 500,000), the financial gap often leaves families in debt and struggling to sustain treatment.

How Batang Kapwa Makes a Difference
This is where Batang Kapwa steps in as a lifeline. Our program bridges the gap by providing financial and emotional support that empowers young patients and their families to endure the challenges of treatment.

Here’s how your donations directly support Batang Kapwa:
- Medical Assistance: Subsidizing chemotherapy and related medical care.
- Psycho-Social Support: Group activities and counseling to uplift the spirits of young cancer warriors.
- Family Outreach: Guidance and counseling to build resilience among parents and caregivers.
- Education: Support for children unable to attend school during treatment.
- Awareness Campaigns: Promoting early detection of childhood cancer to improve survival rates.

Your Role in This Mission
The ongoing success of Batang Kapwa is made possible by the generosity of people like you. Your donations have the power to transform lives—helping children complete their treatment, achieve their dreams, and inspire others with their resilience.
Every peso counts.

Together, we can turn despair into hope and give these young warriors a chance at a brighter, healthier future.

Donate now to be a part of their journey