The 3Doves Foundation is a nonprofit fund raising organization – established in 2008 – that helps to channel needed monies to various institutions for cancer research and other philanthropic outreach programs that deliver humanitarian relief to suffering children in the Philippines. The foundation is in memory of Dolores Batugal Delarmente Weber, whom she herself passed away recently from breast cancer.
Cagayan Beginnings
Dolores Batugal Delarmente Weber was born on December 26, 1922 in the Cagayan Valley of the Philippines. One daughter out of five children, struggle and hard work were common. With limited possessions, the Batugal family maximized their resources and was able to overcome many of life’s pitfalls and hurdles.
Two Become One
At a tender young age, Dolores wedded Benito Delarmente. The two became the wonderful parents of 8 children and 28 grandchildren. Both were true matriarch and patriarch of several successful and professional generations. With their innovative, entrepreneurial strategies, the Delarmente family worked relentlessly at developing and sustaining their way of life. A favorite phrase that Dolores quoted frequently was “You have to make ways.” From selling watermelons to running full-fledged catering operations, Dolores and Benito put their children through college. This exhibition of deep-rooted ingenuity helped to inspire many others to make ways.
Divine Wisdom
Dolores was a very wise woman, and delighted in the divine source of her wisdom…GOD. The Delarmente household knew the Lord. They allowed HIM to direct their paths. Dolores never forgot the humbling experiences in the Cagayan Valleys and was always willing to help others in need. Dolores knew the keys to a better, happier life were placing GOD at the head, working hard, and being frugal and thrifty (“Stretch your dollar”). Her altruistic ways afforded countless families opportunities and avenues in which they too could experience a better quality of living.
In the Face of Tragedy
Tragedy struck the Delarmente family in 1972 in the form of Benito Delarmente passing. Dolores remained, solely raising three teenage children. Realizing that her lifelong partner and mate was now gone, she legally immigrated to the United States in search of opportunity and to escape her grief-filled loss. Like the story of many immigrants, the initial culture shock and language barrier posed challenges that narrowed opportunities. Despite these challenges and in the face of tragedy, Dolores found her niche in the service industry, the housekeeping department at a well-known hospital. As many great heroes – J. Paul Getty, Jose Rizal, Mother Teresa – Dolores realized the value of people and that, there was opportunity in any situation. Her hard work and dedication to bettering her life and the lives surrounding her sphere of influence persisted well into her remaining days.
The End of a Beautiful Beginning
In her golden years, Dolores Batugal Delarmente remarried to Kenneth Weber. Together they enjoyed many priceless years and countless happy memories. After a fantastic and fruitful 12 years, Dolores survived yet another tragedy; Kenneth Weber passed away in the year 2000. Two years later, Dolores developed breast cancer and underwent a mastectomy. Unbeknown to Dolores, the cancer spread throughout her body. It was only a matter of time before she would depart the Earth. Within the course of a little more than 5 years, Dolores lost her battle with cancer and passed away on January 5, 2008.
Continued Legacy…
Dolores’ legacy and hard work still lives on, even posthumously, her hard work and conservative ways helped to alleviate the pain and struggles of many. The 3Doves Foundation commemorates all of her efforts and hard work. Through their collaborating with dedicated cancer research and charitable institutions, the organization is able to keep the works of Lola Dolores alive. Her ultimate offering lives on through this charitable operation and your generous support.
