At a time when violence threatens the people of Syria and our very own brothers and sisters in Mindanao, there is a greater and more urgent need to build a kinder world.
Peace remains elusive in many parts of the Philippines because of massive poverty that leads to crime in urban areas and insurgency in the countryside. On September 21, 2013, the International Day of Peace, various volunteer activities were held across the country to build peaceful communities, live out a culture of caring and sharing, and make sure that no one is left behind, especially the poor.
ANTIQUE
In Antique, the Philippine Army, local government officials and volunteers worked hand in hand to Build for Peace. Tropical storm Maring (international name Trami) and the southwest monsoon or habagat did not deter the passionate team from traveling all the way to GK Arch Angel Village, Brgy. Aningalan, San Remigio, Antique to help construct 25 houses and a multi-purpose center for the community.
Top: In spite of the thick fog and heavy rain, the volunteers continued to Build for Peace at GK Arch Angel Village
Bottom: Gawad Kalinga (GK) Antique, Archie King and the Philippine Army (particularly 1Lt Macario C Acbang and 1Lt Jerome P Hernandez) worked together to restore hope among the poor and give them a safe place to live in
>> Read the inspiring story of how the military, government and concerned citizens worked together to build the GK Arch Angel Village.
QUEZON CITY
In Quezon City, artists such as Top Junk, Garth Garcia, Diday Garcellano of The Voice, Maegan Aguilar and GK SC Johnson Village resident Aikee -- the rapper behind the hit song "Dota o Ako" -- joined volunteers for Bayani Jam: Malayang Musika. Held at Purple Nest Bistro, Tandang Sora, the open mic event raised funds for the benefit of various GK communities in Quezon City.
Top: GK SC Johnson resident and up-and-coming rap star Aikee performed with a volunteer at the Bayani Jam: Malayang Musika
Bottom: Comedienne and TV personality Tuesday Vargas and husband Coy Placido of the band Top Junk joined in the fun
>> Read about another Bayani Jam event created to empower the youth and encourage them to express themselves through music and poetry.
LAS PINAS
In Las Pinas, more volunteers gathered to lovingly devote their time, energy and talent to Teach for Peace at GK Sunshineville. In an effort to shape a kinder, better world, the children were taught about the importance of peace and goodwill. After a film showing of an entertaining cartoon about Peace on Earth, the children participated in a peace flag-making activity and a "Stand for Peace" walk around the community.
Top: Team GK volunteers teaching the GK Sunshineville children a dance set to the song "Kapayapaan" by Tropical Depression.
Bottom: Highschool and college students, young professionals and GK residents (all proudly wearing a Walang Iwanan baller band) became a part of Teach for Peace.
>> Read more about the Teach for Peace event held at GK Sunshineville on the International Day of Peace
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Gawad Kalinga is not a charity, rather, it's an organization that aims to end poverty by building sustainable and peaceful communities. As we work to end poverty one community at a time, we hope to build a kinder and more peaceful world for the next generation. Be a part of our journey. Email info@gk1world.com to learn more.