Pampanga Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda celebrated his birthday by bringing smiles to 31 children with leukemia and 11 with liver problems on Monday, May 6, by treating them to meals at a globally renowned fast-food chain.

According to Governor Delta, celebrating with a purpose imbues his birthday with deeper meaning and fulfillment.

“Malapit sa puso ko ang mga batang ito, dahil sa kabila ng hirap na kanilang nararanasan sa kanilang murang edad, nagagawa pa rin nilang ngumiti at magbigay ng pag-asa sa mga may kapareho nila ng sitwasyon,” said the governor, adding that the time he spent with the kids was his gift to himself.

He also urged parents and guardians to remain strong in the midst of challenges.

“Alam ko po, mahirap. Pero importante na kayo pong mga magulang, ipakita ninyo na malakas ang loob niyo. Sa awa po ng Diyos, malalampasan din natin ito basta palagi lang tayong magdarasal,” he said.

Jennifer Ramos, mother of a 9-year-old leukemia patient, fought back tears as she expressed gratitude to Gov. Delta.

“Since day one, palagi pong nandyan sa tabi namin si Gov. Delta. Hindi niya kami pinababayaan, sobrang laking tulong po na nandiyan po sa amin sila ni Vice Gov. Nanay. Ang pagmamahal at pagkalinga nila sa mga anak namin ay walang katumbas,” she said.

Aside from the food treat, the children also received ₱20,000 from Gov. Delta and another ₱5,000 financial assistance as part of the quarterly support they regularly receive from the provincial government through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO).