Ford Philippines, in partnership with Ford Philanthropy, recently spread joy and celebrated the spirit of giving in time for Christmas as it held a Christmas gift donation drive at a Gawad Kalinga village in Paranaque City, Metro Manila.
This meaningful event brought together employee volunteers from Ford Philippines, the vibrant kapitbahayan (neighborhood) leaders of the GK community, members of VISOR; a leading motoring website in the Philippines, and the Elite Next Gen Ranger Raptor Club to share joy, gratitude, and hope with over 100 children and their families.
A Community Built on Generosity and Hope
Established in the early 2000s through a land donation from AAI Company, AAI GK Village is home to 92 families displaced by road infrastructure projects. Over the years, this community has flourished, with families striving to improve their lives. As the GK Village President Jake Paje shared, “Now that we have our homes, we’re focusing on how to create better futures for our families.”
The event highlighted this resilience and determination, showcasing how collaboration between GK’s organized kapitbahayans and partners like Ford can create opportunities to spread love and joy.
A Day of Celebration and Connection
The community leaders meticulously planned in just a week. From creative games to a heartwarming program, every detail reflected the spirit of bayanihan (“community unity”). Ford employee volunteers, the VISOR team, and the Club members actively joined in the fun, helping children during games and spreading smiles throughout the day.
Ford Philippines Managing Director Pedro Simoes also graced the occasion, embodying Ford’s commitment to community engagement. In a touching moment, he personally assisted children with blindfolds during a game, demonstrating the importance of presence and connection.
Gifts of Joy and Gratitude
Ford and the Elite Next Gen Ranger Raptor Club members brought abundant gifts for the children, including 100 gift packs, prizes, and food. Ford employees also provided additional gifts that made the occasion merrier.
Every child left with arms full of presents and hearts full of joy, a testament to Ford’s generosity and dedication to uplifting communities. Parlor games, thoughtfully organized by the kapitbahayan, added to the excitement, with children eagerly playing with the toys they won.
Celebrating Partnerships and Impact
The volunteers’ dedication ensured a seamless and joyous celebration, bringing smiles to children’s faces and inspiring the community.
Moments like these reflect Ford’s unwavering commitment to empowering Filipino communities, aligning with their mission to drive progress, foster connections, and create positive change.
