By now, you have discovered a potent weapon in your hand
One that can start a revolution and topple a government
For human history itself is influenced
By the written word than by any other war
Today, we face a different battle
And you are being called to take up arms
To be at the forefront in the fight against poverty
With the very stroke of your hand
A brick can make a home
But a learned pen can build a nation
kill despair and spread hope
change a life
with the power of words
It is time
to pick up your weapon
Pick up your pen
And begin.
---
Be a GK volunteer. Write history as it unfolds. Email volunteers@gk1world.com.
Oct 30, 2008
Lessons from Down Under: Look where you're going and No Worries!
Stepping into the Land Down Under was in many ways a leap of faith. A new place, and my first time overseas. I figured I would just pretend I did not know English and quietly amble by. But many times, I've had to look at fear in the face and tell it to step aside so I can get on to where I wanted to go and experience Australia at her best.
Letting go of my many fears was the best souvenir I am bringing home. Like the calm Sydney Harbour, I have learned how it was to go with the flow and to fully understand what they mean when they say "No Worries!"
It is a awesome event when dreams finally come true after years of waiting. I am pretty happy I stuck around for moments like these when there were times I did want to walk away. A little faith does reward you beyond your wildest dreams.
Stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing the unknown was definitely worth every risk and even every discomfort or pain. Facing your fear and insecurities seems to be the hardest part, and then the rest becomes as easy as a winter breeze.
I've discovered this while learning how to snowboard at the Snowy Mountains in Perisher Blue. God knows how many times I fell down and how painful it was, at one point falling down so badly and hitting my head (thankful for my helmet), waking me up out of my wits and thinking, dear God, that really hurts, but quietly lying there on my back and seeing the beautiful Australian blue sky, I felt grateful I was there, and I began to sit up grasping pure snow with my freezing hands.
There is simply nothing to do but not give up, stand up again, clutch the snowboard, walk uphill on my "moon suit" and ride again...until finally you get down that hill without falling down! and experience the relief conquering your fear of falling, by embracing the reality that you will fall down. Strangely enough, the less I feared falling, meaning - the moment I accepted the reality of falling and that it was alright to do so (after all it's part of learning) - I began not to fall and managed to balance my self on a snowboard for a perfect downhill slide. Amazing. Accept your fear, release it and you find your balance.
Perhaps it is the first and the last time I will ever go snowboarding but I will never forget the lessons it has taught me. I take to the advice of Ewan McGregor in his book the Long Way Round: Part of the adventure is to try. If you fail , then that's fine. As long as you have given it a good chance.
You never do fail as long as you learn your lessons well. From this once-in-a-lifetime snowboarding experience I am taking one simple but crucial lesson home, "Always look where you are going," this is the very first instruction our snowboard teacher gave us. Where your feet-strapped snowboard goes is where you are looking. I figured the same goes in life, where you set your eyes on is where you will most likely end up. So perhaps it is best to be keenly aware at where you are looking. And if you don't like where you are headed, why don't you change your direction by looking somewhere else? A place that calls to you... the way Australia has called me to explore her world.
It was fun going through the touristy places in Sydney such as well known landmarks like the Sydney Opera House. I was grateful to have had a chance to conquer my fear of heights by climbing the 134-metres Harbour Bridge courtesy of fellow adventurer, historian and "magician" Adam (who had the uncanny ability of getting freebies while leading the way to secret portals where we can get inside some of Sydney's famous spots for free by using his charms). At about 46 metres (the height of the Statue of Liberty all the way to its torch), I found myself in the middle section of the Harbour Bridge and felt my knees buckle while walking a narrow section where down below you can see cars whizzing by in the early evening. One cannot forget the heady feeling on top of that world. It's dizzying but exciting at the same time.
It's like you want to crawl the whole way through and get it over with. But we had to continue walking, grasping at diagonal cold steel bars until we get to the top where the Australian flag is perched. It was raining and lightning was all around us, but the fear slowly faded away upon seeing the city of Sydney and its suburbs lit like stars in an inverted sky. These are times you were glad you had persevered. It simply was magical. Our Bridge Climb leader tells us that kids are the best climbers because they never complain and all they say is woohoo!!! They have no idea about "fear" and they just savor every moment in wonder and a spirit of adventure.
Back on land and on another day, I remembered how it was to be a kid again while visiting the Sydney Aquarium and seeing a replica of the Great Barrier Reef with the large and endangered Grey Nurse sharks swimming about unaware of their human visitors outside their glass cages. Again, had to overcome that weird anxiety of the glass breaking in and we would be swimming along with them. Perhaps, that would not be scary after all. Seeing these great fishes was a sight to behold, the next best thing to seeing them in their natural habitat. I believe that they are well taken cared of here...Australia after all is big on conservation and taking care of their environment. One thing I noticed about Australia's domesticated animals (dogs and cats) is that they are so free and friendly, and not aggressive unlike the animals back home who are a bit feisty probably after having to cope with the difficulties of life in a developing country. I figured that if you weren't afraid of having no food or having to compete for food, and having your needs taken cared of by a loving family or an an efficient government, both animals and humans, will have no reason to feel defensive or aggressive because they already feel secure?
Or perhaps, that is just me thinking too much... I did find time to think more and sit in two of the classes of Aadrik at the Australian National University in Canberra, reputedly the premiere university in Australia. It amazed me that I could just enter the university and sit in and pretend I was one of their students. And realized I could never bring in someone inside my own university without he or she going through security and having his/her bags checked. The general trust the land gives to its guests here is simply overwhelming and I felt really free.
Winding down the last three weeks, I must admit I was enamored by the beauty that is Sydney but amidst its glitter and glamour, it was in fact -- the quiet walks in the Sydney suburbs to ride the train on my own, the bicycle ride along Canada Bay to see the inner Sydney harbour with Adam, the deep and meaningful conversation along Collaroy beach at the North Shore with Kate, and the delightful meals inside the homes of Aadrik, Winey and Adam while getting to know their families -- these were the very simple but more valuable gifts I will be taking home, beautiful memories I will be pondering on until the next adventure beckons.
Today, I am most likely to agree with playwright George Bernard Shaw when he said: "I hate it when I feel at home abroad." And don't you just hate it when you have to leave so soon. But travelers must always keep moving on, and there is always a next time. Perhaps, it is not the end but only the beginning of many wonderful journeys ahead over and under.
What's great is that, I am no longer afraid. And that all it took was a little faith... faith in the kindness of strangers and friends, faith in your self, and faith in Someone up there who takes care of your every need.
Letting go of my many fears was the best souvenir I am bringing home. Like the calm Sydney Harbour, I have learned how it was to go with the flow and to fully understand what they mean when they say "No Worries!"
It is a awesome event when dreams finally come true after years of waiting. I am pretty happy I stuck around for moments like these when there were times I did want to walk away. A little faith does reward you beyond your wildest dreams.
Stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing the unknown was definitely worth every risk and even every discomfort or pain. Facing your fear and insecurities seems to be the hardest part, and then the rest becomes as easy as a winter breeze.
I've discovered this while learning how to snowboard at the Snowy Mountains in Perisher Blue. God knows how many times I fell down and how painful it was, at one point falling down so badly and hitting my head (thankful for my helmet), waking me up out of my wits and thinking, dear God, that really hurts, but quietly lying there on my back and seeing the beautiful Australian blue sky, I felt grateful I was there, and I began to sit up grasping pure snow with my freezing hands.
There is simply nothing to do but not give up, stand up again, clutch the snowboard, walk uphill on my "moon suit" and ride again...until finally you get down that hill without falling down! and experience the relief conquering your fear of falling, by embracing the reality that you will fall down. Strangely enough, the less I feared falling, meaning - the moment I accepted the reality of falling and that it was alright to do so (after all it's part of learning) - I began not to fall and managed to balance my self on a snowboard for a perfect downhill slide. Amazing. Accept your fear, release it and you find your balance.
Perhaps it is the first and the last time I will ever go snowboarding but I will never forget the lessons it has taught me. I take to the advice of Ewan McGregor in his book the Long Way Round: Part of the adventure is to try. If you fail , then that's fine. As long as you have given it a good chance.
You never do fail as long as you learn your lessons well. From this once-in-a-lifetime snowboarding experience I am taking one simple but crucial lesson home, "Always look where you are going," this is the very first instruction our snowboard teacher gave us. Where your feet-strapped snowboard goes is where you are looking. I figured the same goes in life, where you set your eyes on is where you will most likely end up. So perhaps it is best to be keenly aware at where you are looking. And if you don't like where you are headed, why don't you change your direction by looking somewhere else? A place that calls to you... the way Australia has called me to explore her world.
It was fun going through the touristy places in Sydney such as well known landmarks like the Sydney Opera House. I was grateful to have had a chance to conquer my fear of heights by climbing the 134-metres Harbour Bridge courtesy of fellow adventurer, historian and "magician" Adam (who had the uncanny ability of getting freebies while leading the way to secret portals where we can get inside some of Sydney's famous spots for free by using his charms). At about 46 metres (the height of the Statue of Liberty all the way to its torch), I found myself in the middle section of the Harbour Bridge and felt my knees buckle while walking a narrow section where down below you can see cars whizzing by in the early evening. One cannot forget the heady feeling on top of that world. It's dizzying but exciting at the same time.
It's like you want to crawl the whole way through and get it over with. But we had to continue walking, grasping at diagonal cold steel bars until we get to the top where the Australian flag is perched. It was raining and lightning was all around us, but the fear slowly faded away upon seeing the city of Sydney and its suburbs lit like stars in an inverted sky. These are times you were glad you had persevered. It simply was magical. Our Bridge Climb leader tells us that kids are the best climbers because they never complain and all they say is woohoo!!! They have no idea about "fear" and they just savor every moment in wonder and a spirit of adventure.
Back on land and on another day, I remembered how it was to be a kid again while visiting the Sydney Aquarium and seeing a replica of the Great Barrier Reef with the large and endangered Grey Nurse sharks swimming about unaware of their human visitors outside their glass cages. Again, had to overcome that weird anxiety of the glass breaking in and we would be swimming along with them. Perhaps, that would not be scary after all. Seeing these great fishes was a sight to behold, the next best thing to seeing them in their natural habitat. I believe that they are well taken cared of here...Australia after all is big on conservation and taking care of their environment. One thing I noticed about Australia's domesticated animals (dogs and cats) is that they are so free and friendly, and not aggressive unlike the animals back home who are a bit feisty probably after having to cope with the difficulties of life in a developing country. I figured that if you weren't afraid of having no food or having to compete for food, and having your needs taken cared of by a loving family or an an efficient government, both animals and humans, will have no reason to feel defensive or aggressive because they already feel secure?
Or perhaps, that is just me thinking too much... I did find time to think more and sit in two of the classes of Aadrik at the Australian National University in Canberra, reputedly the premiere university in Australia. It amazed me that I could just enter the university and sit in and pretend I was one of their students. And realized I could never bring in someone inside my own university without he or she going through security and having his/her bags checked. The general trust the land gives to its guests here is simply overwhelming and I felt really free.
Winding down the last three weeks, I must admit I was enamored by the beauty that is Sydney but amidst its glitter and glamour, it was in fact -- the quiet walks in the Sydney suburbs to ride the train on my own, the bicycle ride along Canada Bay to see the inner Sydney harbour with Adam, the deep and meaningful conversation along Collaroy beach at the North Shore with Kate, and the delightful meals inside the homes of Aadrik, Winey and Adam while getting to know their families -- these were the very simple but more valuable gifts I will be taking home, beautiful memories I will be pondering on until the next adventure beckons.
Today, I am most likely to agree with playwright George Bernard Shaw when he said: "I hate it when I feel at home abroad." And don't you just hate it when you have to leave so soon. But travelers must always keep moving on, and there is always a next time. Perhaps, it is not the end but only the beginning of many wonderful journeys ahead over and under.
What's great is that, I am no longer afraid. And that all it took was a little faith... faith in the kindness of strangers and friends, faith in your self, and faith in Someone up there who takes care of your every need.
Oct 26, 2008
The Before Story (b.GK)
Yesterday, went to visit a Gk site in Quezon City with a couple of new volunteers, along with the head of the Builders Corps. It's always fascinating to see the impressions of new volunteers especially the foreign ones on their first time to see a GK community. Understably, they will take photos, lots of them. The site was picture perfect, in a sense, that the left and side of the road displayed starkly the difference between a slum with its tattered look, vulnerably held together by slabs of wood and just a few steps away to your right of the street are the rows of colourful GK homes. It was a stark contrast, and a great photo opportunity of the "before" and "after" work of Gawad Kalinga.
As one of the volunteers puts it, it would be darn sad to wake up every morning on the other side of the road. Fortunately, through dedicated GK caretakers and volunteers there will not be a "before" anymore, but more of the "after"...
It is fascinating to me how our foreign volunteers would often take photos of the "before," it's but natural to take photos of the unknown, and they have never seen a slum before. So, this is what it looks like...and uploaded in social networks, it shows what the Philippines is (currently) about to their friends.
I remember Jonathan from New Zealand, writing long paragraphs describing the slums of Manila in writing a story about a GK site in Cavite. Then I realised why he wrote in that way, with a foreign readership, it was necessary to describe what a slum was all about because they haven't seen one. From my perspective, Filipino readers want to focus more on the heart of the story of transformation because they all know (too well) what a slum was all about. So, as in all things, people find a common ground and I learned some valuable lessons along the way.
Back to the recent day, I observed that the new volunteers would tend to take more photos of the slums more than the GK villages. While, on a trip to Sydney, I would take photos of all the beautiful homes because this is where I want my country to be 24 years from now, that' one generation from now. And I can really see it happening before my very eyes.
I remember Aussie friend Adam saying, we should visit the slums in the Philippines because a few years from now, you wouldn't be able to see one anymore! and that's history in the making and that's part of the "places you should see before it's gone" like the Berlin Wall. you would want those "before" photos, they would be worth a million. But I think most Filipinos would rather have the "after" photos now. They have the before photos all too imprinted on their minds.
It is quite ironic how foreigners come to the Philippines to find out what exactly is a slum while more and more Pinoys leave the country to look for a "better" life outside. One day soon, I hope our people will no longer be forced to leave their families and loved ones to seek better opportunities elsewhere. Someday their own land will be able to provide for them.
As one of the volunteers puts it, it would be darn sad to wake up every morning on the other side of the road. Fortunately, through dedicated GK caretakers and volunteers there will not be a "before" anymore, but more of the "after"...
It is fascinating to me how our foreign volunteers would often take photos of the "before," it's but natural to take photos of the unknown, and they have never seen a slum before. So, this is what it looks like...and uploaded in social networks, it shows what the Philippines is (currently) about to their friends.
I remember Jonathan from New Zealand, writing long paragraphs describing the slums of Manila in writing a story about a GK site in Cavite. Then I realised why he wrote in that way, with a foreign readership, it was necessary to describe what a slum was all about because they haven't seen one. From my perspective, Filipino readers want to focus more on the heart of the story of transformation because they all know (too well) what a slum was all about. So, as in all things, people find a common ground and I learned some valuable lessons along the way.
Back to the recent day, I observed that the new volunteers would tend to take more photos of the slums more than the GK villages. While, on a trip to Sydney, I would take photos of all the beautiful homes because this is where I want my country to be 24 years from now, that' one generation from now. And I can really see it happening before my very eyes.
I remember Aussie friend Adam saying, we should visit the slums in the Philippines because a few years from now, you wouldn't be able to see one anymore! and that's history in the making and that's part of the "places you should see before it's gone" like the Berlin Wall. you would want those "before" photos, they would be worth a million. But I think most Filipinos would rather have the "after" photos now. They have the before photos all too imprinted on their minds.
It is quite ironic how foreigners come to the Philippines to find out what exactly is a slum while more and more Pinoys leave the country to look for a "better" life outside. One day soon, I hope our people will no longer be forced to leave their families and loved ones to seek better opportunities elsewhere. Someday their own land will be able to provide for them.
Oct 18, 2008
Thousands Walk the GK Way
Thousands walk the GK way of friendship, as Gawad Kalinga celebrated its 5th anniversary last October 11 at Fort Bonifacio in Taguig city, attended by thousands of GK residents, builders, workers, volunteers, partners from the government, corporate, academe, NGOs, religious organizations and the civil society -- all in solidarity for love of God and country.
It was an amazing sight to behold: the rich and the poor together in unity, competitors in business encouraging each other, rival schools setting aside differences to walk as one, government leaders inspiring their compatriots towards integrity and excellence, and GK's residents, the kapitbahayan with their caretaker teams walking proudly with their dignity fully restored.
Here is a run-down of the events that transpired during the 2008 Gawad Kalinga Expo, an annual anniversary celebration of the pioneering movement that seeks to alleviate extreme poverty in the Philippines and the world.
THE GK Expo Highlights:
The Caretaker Summit (October 10, Ateneo)
Focusing on the heart of Gawad Kalinga, the caretaker teams soaked in a day of information and inspiration to renew and encourage them in their work as mentors for the poor. The Field Book Manual, aimed at providing the science and system to the faith-based movement, was officially launched by GK and the Ateneo GK Builders Institute. Program Heads and GK champions recounted their mission and goals for the caretakers who will empower their army working with them on the ground while partners from government and GK1MB shared their best practices and strategies.
The caretaker team were exhorted to plan and "dream for your community" as executive director Luis Oquinena emphasized the importance of their presence on the ground. "Our presence tells them that you are important to me," operations head Mari Oquinena affirmed while enumerating the building blocks of GK which is W.I.S.E: [w]holisitc, integrated, sustainable, and empowering. "There is no exclusivity in caring for others," he said and encouraged the caretakers of the vision to help the kapitbahayan become benefactors.
Meanwhile, GK visionary Tony Meloto, laid out the vision for Gawad Kalinga. He said that 2003-2010 or GK777 was a time for Social Healing, providing social justice and just structures for the poorest of the poor while moving towards the designer phase or Social Artistry (2011-2017) furthering empowering them by providing the best for the least and helping them achieve their fullest potentials, onwards to Social Progress and sustainability (2018-2024) where the dream of a first-class Philippines will have been fully realized. He announced that Gawad Kalinga's global model for development will be officially launched at the GK Global Summit at Harvard University in Boston, Massachussetts on June 12 to 15, 2009.
The First GK Mabuhay Pageant Held (October 10, Ateneo)
It was a time for celebration. GK's very own Mabuhay Ladies from various GK communities in Metro Manila came together to showcase the true beauty of the Filipino people. The Mabuhay pageant night saw an inspiring show of support from GK residents who came to cheer on their respective candidates as they participated in the talent, evening gown, and question and answer portions.
Mabuhay Lady Violeta Julian of GK Roque, West-C shone brightly among the nine finalists, winning the crown Ms. Mabuhay, as well as the titles Ms. Friendship, Best in Talent, and Best in Evening Gown. "I am very happy. I am am mother already and I did not expect to reach this, God is really good," the radiant Mabuhay Lady expressed, grateful for her neigbors who came to pray and support her. Charisma Espanol of GK Amparo-North A and Marivic Enal of GK Busilak-Central A were the first and second runners-up. Former Tourism Secretary and now GK Champion Tony Gonazalez lead the judges in choosing the winners based on the following criteria: social relationships, personality and leadership.
GK's Tony Meloto who happily graced the event said, "Mabuhay is a celebration of the life and the greatness of the Filipino spirit." "Matagal nilang tiniis ang pangit na kapaligiran, ngayon sila po ang bida," he added. (They long endured an ugly environment, now they are the stars). He added that everyone in GK is beautiful, good, and excellent and that there was no room for the ugly whether it be the house or their character. The Mabuhay pageant is set to become an annual event, to include GK beauties from the provinces.
Running for your country, the GK - Adidas Marathon (October 11, Fort Bonifacio)
Running for you country has now become an annual event held during the GK Expo, a tradition that began last year in partnership with Adidas King of the Road marathon. As early as two weeks before the event, registrations at P300 each to join the marathon was closed, the event was sold out with the proceeds set to go to building GK communities for the poorest of the poor.
About 5,500 runners joined the event that kicked-off the GK celebrations last October 11, with a blast signalling 21 kilometer runners to start pounding the roads of Fort Bonifacio in Taguig city, followed by 5K and 10K runners. Young and old alike - the youngest being a 2-year old in a jogger accompanied by his family and the oldest a 77 year-old doctor - gave their individual contributions to the country by running for the poor.
The Executive Director's Report (October 11, Fort Bonifacio)
Attended by Gawad Kalinga's friends from the government, corporate and private sectors, GK's executive director Luis Oquinena noted the movement's milestones for 2008. "GK is a work of renewal, it brings new things. We have had a lot of breakthroughs," he said. He announced that the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) has already signed the resolution which makes GK an official beneficiary of real estate developers who are mandated by law to give 20% of their building budget to socialized housing. This recent development provides additional resources for helping reach the goal of building 7,000 GK communities by 2010.
Business competitors SMART Communications and GK Expo-sponsor Globe Telecoms, shared what they learned working with GK. "We learned what partnership and collaboration is all about, that competing corporations can come together for nation-building," said Smart's Mon Isberto. "We are very happy to see Globe as a partner of GK," he said. "Kahit umuunlad tayo, kung hindi ninyo tutulungan ang katabi nyo, maraming maiiwan," he said while sharing the story of their adopted community in General Nakkar, Quezon, whose fishermen turned sculptors gave P100,000 of the proceeds of their art sales to help build the community in GK Budlaan in Cebu.
Globe's said that working with GK, "gave the company a sense of purpose and meaning for its corporate existence." "It's not [only] the resources that we bring to the community but it's the friendship we make along the way," said Globe family's vice-president Ferdz De La Cruz who noted the hundreds of Globe employees who have been touched by GK and quietly volunteering in GK villages on their own.
Armed Forces of the Philippines General Natalio Ecarma III committed his service to the Filipinos, "Ang uniporme ay hindi importante. Ang importante ay ang samahan...Sa GK walang iwanan. Kami ay sundalo ninyo." The general is one of the dreamers for the building of a GK Village in Patikul, Sulu scheduled for the annual Bayani Challenge in April 2009. It is a major step towards pursuing peace in Mindanao through the GK way, the kind of peace that the Moslem community represented by Sultan Akraman Saripada of GK Wao, Lanao del Sur and Bangsamoro commander Hadji Sangcopan Bansil seeks to end the war in Mindanao and alleviate their poor people's sufferings. "Kapatid ko kayo. Magkakapatid tayong lahat, walang iwanan!," Sultan Akraman said. The general and sultan would be seen shaking hands during the event as a sign of unity towards this shared vision of peace in Mindanao, and in solidarity with One UTAK, the united transport group composed of the nation's jeepney and bus drivers who initiated the tie a white ribbon for peace in jeepneys and buses throughout the troubled region.
The Executive Director Luis Oquinena reiterated the expo's them: Walang Iwanan, Anong taya mo para sa Bayan? "Yung walang ginagawa para sa bayan, yun ang squatter," he said and encouraged everyone to be anchored in their motherland, to make their stake in the country.
GK Expo Taguig Mayor Freddie Tinga capped the session with his inspiring realization that GK is the glue that brings people together for a nation long beset by division exemplified by the city of Taguig, that has a big gap between the rich and poor. Taguig which is working towards closing this gap and is one with the GK's vision in creating it a designer city. "The one thing that GK tells us is we cannot do it alone. We are changing and learning...GK is telling everyone that it can be done," he said. "If it can be done here in Taguig, it can be done anywhere in the country," he believed. "Dito sa GK, patapos na ang dilim at nagsisimula na ang umaga," he said.
Echoing his predecessor's realization that "the national government cannot do it alone," the Department of Agriculture secretary Arthur Yap committed to working with GK in producing sustainable farms so that the poor will have food on their people and Filipinos will not be hungry in a land so blessed with an abundance of natural resources. This synergy and alliance with the agriculture government will convert idle lands to productive ones, starting with 300 GK sites, where the technical expertise and support of the agriculture department will be applied in partnership with GK.
The executive director noted that the road ahead is full of hard work as GK aims to build 3,500 communities in 2009 and build a million homes. He exhorted those present to protect unity at all cost. "Do not allow cracks," he said. "The Filipino poor is the priority."
Goldilock's Birthday Blow-Out for 7,000 GK Kids (October 11, Fort Bonifacio)
In celebration of Gawad Kalinga's 5th anniversary, Goldilocks Bakeshop treated the SIBOL, SAGIP children and Kids for Christ members to a big birthday blow-out with an hourly party from catering to 1,000 kids per batch. Many of the kids, who have never had a birthday party before in their lives and cannot afford a birthday cake, were all happy to have the opportunity to celebrate their birthday with other kids, the next generation of Filipinos. The children were treated to a program with games and blowing of their birthday cakes. All were happy bringing their gift packs from Goldilocks after the party.
Building a Nation (October 11, Fort Bonifacio)
The session began with a riveting performance of GK SIGA members in a powerful play written by Ron Capinding entitled Tao Po (It is I), co-presented by Gawad Kalinga and the Department of Foreign Affairs. It was a show of world-class excellence featuring the talents of our GK youth who just came from Indonesia to teach and perform with fellow Siga members there. Their performance during the GK Expo with foreign dignitaries and company presidents as their guests, was simply exceptional. It showed that the poor can really excel given the opportunity and empowerment. The famous choir from GK Tatalon also performed to an amazed audience.
"You just have seen the transformation of our greatest asset," GK visionary Tony Meloto began as he welcomed honorable diplomats from different countries. "These are the lost Filipinos," Meloto said, noting that there are talents in the most depressed areas. "Today, we see a convergence of our people, raising the least of our brethren to their highest potential for excellence," he said as he introduced Gawad Kalinga's next phase of development, Social Artistry or the designer phase where the best Filipinos give of their excellence to help the least attain to their fullest potentials as well.
He honored the caretakers from Couples for Christ in Bagong Silang who started GK with a sense of mission. "In the spirit of sacrifice, we have built GK," said the chief inspirational officer as he presented the Addurru family, whose house was the very first home built by GK. They represent the many GK communities since then whose lives have been changed. Bagong Silang, the largest baranggay in Metro Manila and formerly the haven of dangerous gangs and criminals, has been transformed from within, evolving steadily into GK's designer baranggay.
Former Philippine Ambassador to Milan, honorable Amb. Peter Chan while representing the DFA diplomatic corps handed out a cheque to Meloto saying it was "a gift from the heart" from overseas Filipino workers in the country were he served.
Bukas Loob sa Diyos represented by Bro. Ric Pascua said they are striving to raise 1,000 GK communities. "We are all children of God. This work is too big for any one community to handle. It is for everyone," he said.
Meloto called on competing schools Ateneo and La Salle to participate in a "Patriot Games", which unlike the coveted men's basketball championship, would compete
instead for the most number of land donated for the poor of the country. "Now, we are united as a people. We have a dream that unites us," he said as he spoke of the vision for the Philippines, as the first world-class nation in Southeast Asia.
Partners from local government lead by inspiring mayors Sonia Lorenzo of San Isidro, Nueva Ecija, Camarines Sur Governor LRay Villafuerte, and Taguig's Freddie Tinga who all espoused good governance, integrity and excellence, agreeing that GK is integrative. "It brings people together and it integrates the dreams of the poor," Mayor Lorenzo said. Our motto now is "Maka-Diyos, maka-bayan, at maka-deliver," as she affirmed her commitment with GK.
"I sought change - and with unrelenting determination, took off to a path that was unexpected, unconventional and untested," shared Governor Villafuerte of how he transformed Camarines Sur into a world-class tourist destination with its now famous wakeboarding facility. Akin to the revolutionary and faith-filled spirit of GK: Build it and they will come, the inspiring governor embraces wholeheartedly GK's vision of christening Cam Sur as a Designer province with world-class GK villages complete with bed and breakfast homes for guests, a livelihood ran by GK's residents.
"The partnership of GK and Cam Sur is a match made in heaven - it is an answered prayer - because it came at a time when I felt the compelling need to do more for my people," shared Gov. Villafuerte. " I wanted to elevate our humble success to a more meaningful level," he said.
Meanwhile, dynamic mayor Freddie Tinga affirmed his all-out support for GK's vision for Taguig as a designer city, " Taguig is going to be a great city. GK is making people believe lalo na ang mga mahihirap na kaya pala!" Paranaque mayor Jun Bernabe also reaffirmed his commitment,
"Itinaya ko na po ang aking sarili, and aking pamilya," he said.
Former Wyeth chief and marketing brain, now GK champion Boy de Claro said that he now has the best brand to sell to the world: The Filipino.
"It is a great gift and a great privilege to be a Filipino," Meloto affirmed.
40,000 GK heroes join Martsa ng mga Bayani
(October 11, GK Expo Grounds)
The annual GK tradition -- the parade of heroes honors the caretaker teams, kapitbahayan, partners and volunteers who tirelessly work on the ground to build the country of their dreams. This year, the GK expo ground was filled to the brim. A 40,000-strong army of GK heroes from all over the country and the world, joined this year's march for a massive show of unity.
What is notable of this year's march is its changing face: the rich and the poor march together in full equality, and many more partners fully adopting their GK communities. The kapitbahayans were the main focus with their caretaker teams proudly marching alongside them as friends. It was the emergence of "The New Middle Class" as GK's Tony Meloto puts it. GK heroes from as far as Mindanao and patriots returning from America, all waited in line to join the parade. Many GK communities showcased their province's treasures in a float, notable of them were Batangas and Laguna. Some came with full marching and dancing bands such as Metro Manila's West sector that reminded one of great festivals in the Philippines.
Company presidents marched with their employees and GK1MB volunteers from schools, universities and fraternities marched fully in support of the GK vision. Even Ateneo and La Salle laid aside school pride, sharing a float together acknowledging that they were only rivals in the basketball court but more imporantly, co-builders of the country. Lastly, it is significant to mention that almost all the baranggays of Taguig came, having the longest delegation in an all out show of their support for Gawad Kalinga.
This year's Martsa ng mga Bayani, showed the significant growth of the movement. Indeed, we might need a bigger area in the future as GK continues to grow to its fullest potential.
The GK1World Concert
(October 11, Fort Bonifacio)
The renowned Fort Bonifacio grounds used for international concerts, was filled to the brim. The only difference now is that the poor who cannot afford to go to these international events, were the very important guests for GK1World's concert aired worldwide through internet television.
Vice President Noli de Castro graced the auspicious event affirming that: "Ganyan talaga ang magkakaibigan, walang iwanan!" He thanked Gawad Kalinga's gift of building transformative friendships. "True friendship brings about change in those involved in the relationship."
He said that his friendship with GK transformed him personally as the inspiration of ordinary citizen sacrificing for their country, humbles him, engages him and allows him to be focused on providing the basic needs of the poor Filipinos. "Your own zeal and enthusiasm for the mission is contangious," he said as he honored the many heroes of Gawad Kalinga. "We must remain focused on our mission in GK," said the servant of the people.
"Walang atrasan, at ito ang taya ko!," the vice president said. He encouraged everyone to resolve to keep moving forward in spite of the current global crisis and challenges faced, and to rely on those transformative friendships to keep moving on towards the fulfillment of GK's dreams for the poor.
Representing the corporate sector, SMART committed to send a team to Sulu for the 2009 Bayani Challenge for a peaceful Mindanao, pledged to send a representative to the GK Global Summit in Boston, and vowed to provide internet connection to GK communities all over the Philippines. Meralco committed to continue building Sibol schools and provide light to GK villages while Shell committed to growing and develping its GK farms and to be a staunch ally of Green Kalinga. Wyeth committed to continue raising healthy homes and developing healthy kids in GK communities.
"My fellow citizens, ano yung taya ninyo?" challenged GK's executive director Luis Oquinena. "Pamilya ko, eto ang taya ko" as he committed his kids and family. Many people expressed their commitments through SMS or text as they quietly prayed and considered their personal contributions to their country.
Representing GK's international network, Dr. Charlie Capati who has lived in the USA for 37 years, committed to helping spread the vision of GK in America. "This is our time. [Let us] embrace our destiny," he said. Filipino-American entrepreneur Tony Olaes, committed to never forget the Philippines. "My heart is for the Philippines and it will never leave you, I promise you that," he affirmed as he continues to promote the work of GK in States and raise villages with other Fil-Ams in business.
The expo drew to a close with everyone renewing their commitment and hope hope for the Philippines. The GK heroes on stage and on the ground locked arms in a show of solidarity singing together "Bayan Ko."The concert ended with a praise fest, everyone expressing their love for God.
World-class Filipino talents Ryan Cayabyab, River Maya, 6Cycle Mind, Imago, Sponge Cola, Cueshe and Gloc9 contributed their talents towards a first-class Philippines. According to many participants, the GK1World Expo Walang Iwanan: Anong Taya mo Para sa Bayan? was the best expo to date.
Happy Anniversary GK Bayani!
It was an amazing sight to behold: the rich and the poor together in unity, competitors in business encouraging each other, rival schools setting aside differences to walk as one, government leaders inspiring their compatriots towards integrity and excellence, and GK's residents, the kapitbahayan with their caretaker teams walking proudly with their dignity fully restored.
Here is a run-down of the events that transpired during the 2008 Gawad Kalinga Expo, an annual anniversary celebration of the pioneering movement that seeks to alleviate extreme poverty in the Philippines and the world.
THE GK Expo Highlights:
The Caretaker Summit (October 10, Ateneo)
Focusing on the heart of Gawad Kalinga, the caretaker teams soaked in a day of information and inspiration to renew and encourage them in their work as mentors for the poor. The Field Book Manual, aimed at providing the science and system to the faith-based movement, was officially launched by GK and the Ateneo GK Builders Institute. Program Heads and GK champions recounted their mission and goals for the caretakers who will empower their army working with them on the ground while partners from government and GK1MB shared their best practices and strategies.
The caretaker team were exhorted to plan and "dream for your community" as executive director Luis Oquinena emphasized the importance of their presence on the ground. "Our presence tells them that you are important to me," operations head Mari Oquinena affirmed while enumerating the building blocks of GK which is W.I.S.E: [w]holisitc, integrated, sustainable, and empowering. "There is no exclusivity in caring for others," he said and encouraged the caretakers of the vision to help the kapitbahayan become benefactors.
Meanwhile, GK visionary Tony Meloto, laid out the vision for Gawad Kalinga. He said that 2003-2010 or GK777 was a time for Social Healing, providing social justice and just structures for the poorest of the poor while moving towards the designer phase or Social Artistry (2011-2017) furthering empowering them by providing the best for the least and helping them achieve their fullest potentials, onwards to Social Progress and sustainability (2018-2024) where the dream of a first-class Philippines will have been fully realized. He announced that Gawad Kalinga's global model for development will be officially launched at the GK Global Summit at Harvard University in Boston, Massachussetts on June 12 to 15, 2009.
The First GK Mabuhay Pageant Held (October 10, Ateneo)
It was a time for celebration. GK's very own Mabuhay Ladies from various GK communities in Metro Manila came together to showcase the true beauty of the Filipino people. The Mabuhay pageant night saw an inspiring show of support from GK residents who came to cheer on their respective candidates as they participated in the talent, evening gown, and question and answer portions.
Mabuhay Lady Violeta Julian of GK Roque, West-C shone brightly among the nine finalists, winning the crown Ms. Mabuhay, as well as the titles Ms. Friendship, Best in Talent, and Best in Evening Gown. "I am very happy. I am am mother already and I did not expect to reach this, God is really good," the radiant Mabuhay Lady expressed, grateful for her neigbors who came to pray and support her. Charisma Espanol of GK Amparo-North A and Marivic Enal of GK Busilak-Central A were the first and second runners-up. Former Tourism Secretary and now GK Champion Tony Gonazalez lead the judges in choosing the winners based on the following criteria: social relationships, personality and leadership.
GK's Tony Meloto who happily graced the event said, "Mabuhay is a celebration of the life and the greatness of the Filipino spirit." "Matagal nilang tiniis ang pangit na kapaligiran, ngayon sila po ang bida," he added. (They long endured an ugly environment, now they are the stars). He added that everyone in GK is beautiful, good, and excellent and that there was no room for the ugly whether it be the house or their character. The Mabuhay pageant is set to become an annual event, to include GK beauties from the provinces.
Running for your country, the GK - Adidas Marathon (October 11, Fort Bonifacio)
Running for you country has now become an annual event held during the GK Expo, a tradition that began last year in partnership with Adidas King of the Road marathon. As early as two weeks before the event, registrations at P300 each to join the marathon was closed, the event was sold out with the proceeds set to go to building GK communities for the poorest of the poor.
About 5,500 runners joined the event that kicked-off the GK celebrations last October 11, with a blast signalling 21 kilometer runners to start pounding the roads of Fort Bonifacio in Taguig city, followed by 5K and 10K runners. Young and old alike - the youngest being a 2-year old in a jogger accompanied by his family and the oldest a 77 year-old doctor - gave their individual contributions to the country by running for the poor.
The Executive Director's Report (October 11, Fort Bonifacio)
Attended by Gawad Kalinga's friends from the government, corporate and private sectors, GK's executive director Luis Oquinena noted the movement's milestones for 2008. "GK is a work of renewal, it brings new things. We have had a lot of breakthroughs," he said. He announced that the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) has already signed the resolution which makes GK an official beneficiary of real estate developers who are mandated by law to give 20% of their building budget to socialized housing. This recent development provides additional resources for helping reach the goal of building 7,000 GK communities by 2010.
Business competitors SMART Communications and GK Expo-sponsor Globe Telecoms, shared what they learned working with GK. "We learned what partnership and collaboration is all about, that competing corporations can come together for nation-building," said Smart's Mon Isberto. "We are very happy to see Globe as a partner of GK," he said. "Kahit umuunlad tayo, kung hindi ninyo tutulungan ang katabi nyo, maraming maiiwan," he said while sharing the story of their adopted community in General Nakkar, Quezon, whose fishermen turned sculptors gave P100,000 of the proceeds of their art sales to help build the community in GK Budlaan in Cebu.
Globe's said that working with GK, "gave the company a sense of purpose and meaning for its corporate existence." "It's not [only] the resources that we bring to the community but it's the friendship we make along the way," said Globe family's vice-president Ferdz De La Cruz who noted the hundreds of Globe employees who have been touched by GK and quietly volunteering in GK villages on their own.
Armed Forces of the Philippines General Natalio Ecarma III committed his service to the Filipinos, "Ang uniporme ay hindi importante. Ang importante ay ang samahan...Sa GK walang iwanan. Kami ay sundalo ninyo." The general is one of the dreamers for the building of a GK Village in Patikul, Sulu scheduled for the annual Bayani Challenge in April 2009. It is a major step towards pursuing peace in Mindanao through the GK way, the kind of peace that the Moslem community represented by Sultan Akraman Saripada of GK Wao, Lanao del Sur and Bangsamoro commander Hadji Sangcopan Bansil seeks to end the war in Mindanao and alleviate their poor people's sufferings. "Kapatid ko kayo. Magkakapatid tayong lahat, walang iwanan!," Sultan Akraman said. The general and sultan would be seen shaking hands during the event as a sign of unity towards this shared vision of peace in Mindanao, and in solidarity with One UTAK, the united transport group composed of the nation's jeepney and bus drivers who initiated the tie a white ribbon for peace in jeepneys and buses throughout the troubled region.
The Executive Director Luis Oquinena reiterated the expo's them: Walang Iwanan, Anong taya mo para sa Bayan? "Yung walang ginagawa para sa bayan, yun ang squatter," he said and encouraged everyone to be anchored in their motherland, to make their stake in the country.
GK Expo Taguig Mayor Freddie Tinga capped the session with his inspiring realization that GK is the glue that brings people together for a nation long beset by division exemplified by the city of Taguig, that has a big gap between the rich and poor. Taguig which is working towards closing this gap and is one with the GK's vision in creating it a designer city. "The one thing that GK tells us is we cannot do it alone. We are changing and learning...GK is telling everyone that it can be done," he said. "If it can be done here in Taguig, it can be done anywhere in the country," he believed. "Dito sa GK, patapos na ang dilim at nagsisimula na ang umaga," he said.
Echoing his predecessor's realization that "the national government cannot do it alone," the Department of Agriculture secretary Arthur Yap committed to working with GK in producing sustainable farms so that the poor will have food on their people and Filipinos will not be hungry in a land so blessed with an abundance of natural resources. This synergy and alliance with the agriculture government will convert idle lands to productive ones, starting with 300 GK sites, where the technical expertise and support of the agriculture department will be applied in partnership with GK.
The executive director noted that the road ahead is full of hard work as GK aims to build 3,500 communities in 2009 and build a million homes. He exhorted those present to protect unity at all cost. "Do not allow cracks," he said. "The Filipino poor is the priority."
Goldilock's Birthday Blow-Out for 7,000 GK Kids (October 11, Fort Bonifacio)
In celebration of Gawad Kalinga's 5th anniversary, Goldilocks Bakeshop treated the SIBOL, SAGIP children and Kids for Christ members to a big birthday blow-out with an hourly party from catering to 1,000 kids per batch. Many of the kids, who have never had a birthday party before in their lives and cannot afford a birthday cake, were all happy to have the opportunity to celebrate their birthday with other kids, the next generation of Filipinos. The children were treated to a program with games and blowing of their birthday cakes. All were happy bringing their gift packs from Goldilocks after the party.
Building a Nation (October 11, Fort Bonifacio)
The session began with a riveting performance of GK SIGA members in a powerful play written by Ron Capinding entitled Tao Po (It is I), co-presented by Gawad Kalinga and the Department of Foreign Affairs. It was a show of world-class excellence featuring the talents of our GK youth who just came from Indonesia to teach and perform with fellow Siga members there. Their performance during the GK Expo with foreign dignitaries and company presidents as their guests, was simply exceptional. It showed that the poor can really excel given the opportunity and empowerment. The famous choir from GK Tatalon also performed to an amazed audience.
"You just have seen the transformation of our greatest asset," GK visionary Tony Meloto began as he welcomed honorable diplomats from different countries. "These are the lost Filipinos," Meloto said, noting that there are talents in the most depressed areas. "Today, we see a convergence of our people, raising the least of our brethren to their highest potential for excellence," he said as he introduced Gawad Kalinga's next phase of development, Social Artistry or the designer phase where the best Filipinos give of their excellence to help the least attain to their fullest potentials as well.
He honored the caretakers from Couples for Christ in Bagong Silang who started GK with a sense of mission. "In the spirit of sacrifice, we have built GK," said the chief inspirational officer as he presented the Addurru family, whose house was the very first home built by GK. They represent the many GK communities since then whose lives have been changed. Bagong Silang, the largest baranggay in Metro Manila and formerly the haven of dangerous gangs and criminals, has been transformed from within, evolving steadily into GK's designer baranggay.
Former Philippine Ambassador to Milan, honorable Amb. Peter Chan while representing the DFA diplomatic corps handed out a cheque to Meloto saying it was "a gift from the heart" from overseas Filipino workers in the country were he served.
Bukas Loob sa Diyos represented by Bro. Ric Pascua said they are striving to raise 1,000 GK communities. "We are all children of God. This work is too big for any one community to handle. It is for everyone," he said.
Meloto called on competing schools Ateneo and La Salle to participate in a "Patriot Games", which unlike the coveted men's basketball championship, would compete
instead for the most number of land donated for the poor of the country. "Now, we are united as a people. We have a dream that unites us," he said as he spoke of the vision for the Philippines, as the first world-class nation in Southeast Asia.
Partners from local government lead by inspiring mayors Sonia Lorenzo of San Isidro, Nueva Ecija, Camarines Sur Governor LRay Villafuerte, and Taguig's Freddie Tinga who all espoused good governance, integrity and excellence, agreeing that GK is integrative. "It brings people together and it integrates the dreams of the poor," Mayor Lorenzo said. Our motto now is "Maka-Diyos, maka-bayan, at maka-deliver," as she affirmed her commitment with GK.
"I sought change - and with unrelenting determination, took off to a path that was unexpected, unconventional and untested," shared Governor Villafuerte of how he transformed Camarines Sur into a world-class tourist destination with its now famous wakeboarding facility. Akin to the revolutionary and faith-filled spirit of GK: Build it and they will come, the inspiring governor embraces wholeheartedly GK's vision of christening Cam Sur as a Designer province with world-class GK villages complete with bed and breakfast homes for guests, a livelihood ran by GK's residents.
"The partnership of GK and Cam Sur is a match made in heaven - it is an answered prayer - because it came at a time when I felt the compelling need to do more for my people," shared Gov. Villafuerte. " I wanted to elevate our humble success to a more meaningful level," he said.
Meanwhile, dynamic mayor Freddie Tinga affirmed his all-out support for GK's vision for Taguig as a designer city, " Taguig is going to be a great city. GK is making people believe lalo na ang mga mahihirap na kaya pala!" Paranaque mayor Jun Bernabe also reaffirmed his commitment,
"Itinaya ko na po ang aking sarili, and aking pamilya," he said.
Former Wyeth chief and marketing brain, now GK champion Boy de Claro said that he now has the best brand to sell to the world: The Filipino.
"It is a great gift and a great privilege to be a Filipino," Meloto affirmed.
40,000 GK heroes join Martsa ng mga Bayani
(October 11, GK Expo Grounds)
The annual GK tradition -- the parade of heroes honors the caretaker teams, kapitbahayan, partners and volunteers who tirelessly work on the ground to build the country of their dreams. This year, the GK expo ground was filled to the brim. A 40,000-strong army of GK heroes from all over the country and the world, joined this year's march for a massive show of unity.
What is notable of this year's march is its changing face: the rich and the poor march together in full equality, and many more partners fully adopting their GK communities. The kapitbahayans were the main focus with their caretaker teams proudly marching alongside them as friends. It was the emergence of "The New Middle Class" as GK's Tony Meloto puts it. GK heroes from as far as Mindanao and patriots returning from America, all waited in line to join the parade. Many GK communities showcased their province's treasures in a float, notable of them were Batangas and Laguna. Some came with full marching and dancing bands such as Metro Manila's West sector that reminded one of great festivals in the Philippines.
Company presidents marched with their employees and GK1MB volunteers from schools, universities and fraternities marched fully in support of the GK vision. Even Ateneo and La Salle laid aside school pride, sharing a float together acknowledging that they were only rivals in the basketball court but more imporantly, co-builders of the country. Lastly, it is significant to mention that almost all the baranggays of Taguig came, having the longest delegation in an all out show of their support for Gawad Kalinga.
This year's Martsa ng mga Bayani, showed the significant growth of the movement. Indeed, we might need a bigger area in the future as GK continues to grow to its fullest potential.
The GK1World Concert
(October 11, Fort Bonifacio)
The renowned Fort Bonifacio grounds used for international concerts, was filled to the brim. The only difference now is that the poor who cannot afford to go to these international events, were the very important guests for GK1World's concert aired worldwide through internet television.
Vice President Noli de Castro graced the auspicious event affirming that: "Ganyan talaga ang magkakaibigan, walang iwanan!" He thanked Gawad Kalinga's gift of building transformative friendships. "True friendship brings about change in those involved in the relationship."
He said that his friendship with GK transformed him personally as the inspiration of ordinary citizen sacrificing for their country, humbles him, engages him and allows him to be focused on providing the basic needs of the poor Filipinos. "Your own zeal and enthusiasm for the mission is contangious," he said as he honored the many heroes of Gawad Kalinga. "We must remain focused on our mission in GK," said the servant of the people.
"Walang atrasan, at ito ang taya ko!," the vice president said. He encouraged everyone to resolve to keep moving forward in spite of the current global crisis and challenges faced, and to rely on those transformative friendships to keep moving on towards the fulfillment of GK's dreams for the poor.
Representing the corporate sector, SMART committed to send a team to Sulu for the 2009 Bayani Challenge for a peaceful Mindanao, pledged to send a representative to the GK Global Summit in Boston, and vowed to provide internet connection to GK communities all over the Philippines. Meralco committed to continue building Sibol schools and provide light to GK villages while Shell committed to growing and develping its GK farms and to be a staunch ally of Green Kalinga. Wyeth committed to continue raising healthy homes and developing healthy kids in GK communities.
"My fellow citizens, ano yung taya ninyo?" challenged GK's executive director Luis Oquinena. "Pamilya ko, eto ang taya ko" as he committed his kids and family. Many people expressed their commitments through SMS or text as they quietly prayed and considered their personal contributions to their country.
Representing GK's international network, Dr. Charlie Capati who has lived in the USA for 37 years, committed to helping spread the vision of GK in America. "This is our time. [Let us] embrace our destiny," he said. Filipino-American entrepreneur Tony Olaes, committed to never forget the Philippines. "My heart is for the Philippines and it will never leave you, I promise you that," he affirmed as he continues to promote the work of GK in States and raise villages with other Fil-Ams in business.
The expo drew to a close with everyone renewing their commitment and hope hope for the Philippines. The GK heroes on stage and on the ground locked arms in a show of solidarity singing together "Bayan Ko."The concert ended with a praise fest, everyone expressing their love for God.
World-class Filipino talents Ryan Cayabyab, River Maya, 6Cycle Mind, Imago, Sponge Cola, Cueshe and Gloc9 contributed their talents towards a first-class Philippines. According to many participants, the GK1World Expo Walang Iwanan: Anong Taya mo Para sa Bayan? was the best expo to date.
Happy Anniversary GK Bayani!
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