MANILA, Philippines — Actress Marian Rivera recently marked her 34th birthday with the children beneficiaries of cleft charitable institution Smile Train, for which she is a celebrity ambassador.
During the birthday bash, done two days before the actress’ August 12 actual birthday, Rivera celebrated with Smile Train’s local medical professionals, cleft patients and families at the charity’s partner hospital, Philippine Band of Mercy.
“Marami pang batang ipinanganak nang may cleft lip at palate na nangangailangan ng tulong... Sa simpleng pag post ninyo sa social media, hindi mo alam, may natutulungan ka na pala,” Marian enthused.
While one would normally receive gifts on their birthday, Rivera opted to give instead. Through her own initiative, she produced t-shirts with #YanAngSmile emblazoned across the chest—a play on her nickname and a word that can be associated with the cause she is advocating for. Rivera was able to sell 500 shirts, which will help 40 children receive free cleft surgery.
“Smile Train is grateful to have an ambassador like Marian. She has been an avid supporter who goes out of her way to raise awareness for children with untreated clefts here in the Philippines and all around the world. It is wonderful to see her use her platform to support our cause and encourage others to get involved as well,” said Kimmy Coseteng-Flaviano, Smile Train’s Area Director for Southeast Asia.