Patients and visitors of Makati Medical Center were pleasantly surprised to see Rey, Princess Leia Organa, Darth Vader, and the Stormtroopers walking the halls of the premier hospital. The characters straight out of Star Wars: The Force Awakens were actually members of the Philippine Garrison of the 501st Legion, a local chapter of an international organization of Star Wars fans who the creation and wearing of “movie-quality, screen-accurate” Star Wars costumes. The members, who have become a familiar sight in toy conventions, film screenings, fan-driven parties, and any Star Wars-related event, also raise funds for charity.
“No matter how old you are, no matter where in the world you are, it’s no fun being sick,” said 501st Legion’s Regina Layug Rosero, who dressed up as Rey. “Most people don’t even like going to the doctor! So if Stormtroopers can make a hospital stay or check-up more bearable – even fun – we’re happy to do it,” she added.
The 501st Legion invited Makati Medical Center’s patients and hospital guests to “Join the Force” in the special Star Wars event, and they were not disappointed as more than 300 hospital guests, some of whom dressed up as their favorite characters from the space epic, posed with the 501st Legion at MakatiMed’s Main Lobby in Tower 1. Spotted were little Stormtroopers, Jedi Knights, Sith Lords and Princess Leias, who got a kick out of posing with their grown-up counterparts.
The Star Wars characters also visited pediatric patients and met with the parents and caregivers, with the kids visibly awestruck to see Darth Vader, Princess Leia and Stormtroopers, all of whom wished the children a speedy recovery.
MakatiMed also distributed special loot bags to the children. “This is MakatiMed’s special treat for Star Wars fans, kids and adults alike,” said Arlyn Songco, vice president for Marketing & Sales Services, who attended the event with her children. “We set up this special event to bring fun and warmth to our hospital, which can feel like a frightening and intimidating environment, especially for our young patients. We hope to do more in-hospital events like this, in addition to our regular lay forums and conferences,” she added.