President Aquino Attends Gawad Kalinga’s 13th Anniversary In Bulacan

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Friday attended the opening ceremony of the 3rd Global Society Business Summit and Gawad Kalinga’s (GK) 13th anniversary in Bulacan, praising the organization for its contribution to national development.

In his speech delivered at GK’s Enchanted Farm in Angat, Bulacan, the President said the organization’s initiative is close to his heart as he noted the vibrant spirit of volunteerism among Filipino youth.

“Since 2003, GK has reached so many of our countrymen in need, building 2,500 communities in the Philippines, most of them in areas that are most vulnerable to calamity and conflict,” he said.

Expressing his fascination for locations such as the Enchanted Farm, he said he admires the idea that the farm serves as a university for social education, a destination for social tourism, and a hub for social business.

He thanked GK founder Tony Meloto and the social entrepreneurs, as well as the communities “who give meaning” to GK’s work.

Cooperation between the government and GK is not new, the President said, noting that his administration has several tie-ups with the organization, such as the Agri-Social Enterprise showcase of the Department of Agriculture in Enchanted Farm, which helps provide livelihood to farmers.

He also cited the partnership among the Department of Agrarian Reform, GK, and the Shell Foundation, which helps Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries by assisting them in formulating business plans, and in acquiring much needed farm equipment.

“All these initiatives reinforce the idea that business—and governance—driven by kindness makes the most sense,” President Aquino said.

“After all, when we help those who have the least—when we equip them with the skills they need to take advantage of the growing number of opportunities—we do more than empower them as individuals; we also empower them as consumers.”

These initiatives, he said, mean a lot to ordinary people, who get a chance to increase their income, live more dignified lives, and have a greater capacity to participate in the growing economy by buying products, riding public transport, and remitting more taxes that in turn empower the people more.

“What we see here is a virtuous cycle of vibrant economic growth and inclusivity—one that can guarantee that our nation’s economic growth continues far into the future, and is felt across the archipelago,” the Chief Executive said.

“Indeed, meeting with all of you in this farm reinforces my optimism about the future, and might I just add: Sometimes when we listen to supposedly learned people who have nothing but complaints on their agenda, it is really refreshing to go to areas like GK, where we have partners in doing positive changes for our people.”

President Aquino said that with the goodwill, kindness, and the talent of workers he has witnessed in the Enchanted Farm, he is certain that the Philippines is in good hands, even as he steps down from office this year.

Gawad Kalinga is a Philippine-based movement that aims to end poverty by first restoring the dignity of the poor.

The organization employs an integrated and holistic approach to empowerment with values formation and leadership development at its core.

Established in 2003, the foundation works with more than 2,000 communities and has been presented the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2006 and the Skoll Award for Social Entrepreneurship in 2012. (PNA) FPV/PND/RSM