Category: Outreach Activity

Last December 15, 2022, the Open Heart Foundation celebrated Christmas thru a service project instead of a Christmas party which the foundation used to have. This was done through a gift-giving entitled “Pamaskong Handog” at Brgy. Binabalian Bolinao, Pangasinan, a joint project with Ms. Nelia Tabios-Bautista for 200 identified families at Brgy. Binabalian, Bolinao, Pangasinan.

Before the program started, the OHF team went to the Municipality of Bolinao to pay a courtesy call to Mayor Alfonso Celeste M.D., and through his help, the team availed the free barge transport to Brgy. Binabalian.

The barangay identified 200 indigent families as recipients of the grocery donation. As the program started, the Executive Director shared her motivational talk with everyone and greeted them with a Jolly Merry Christmas. Right after the intermission number of OHF RSW Frank Diaz, the distribution of the grocery package for selected 200 residents in Brgy. Binabalian Bolinao Pangasinan was distributed with the help of the OHF team and also the barangay personnel. 

You could see through their faces how happy and grateful they were as they received their early Christmas gift. Some expressed their thankful heart by saying “Yes may pang handa na kami sa pasko”.

Truly, giving from the heart fills your life with joy and nourishes your soul. And the experience witnessed today is far more valuable than the gift. As Mahatma Gandhi said, “To find yourself, lose yourself in the service of others.”

Prepared By: Maejorie U. Ortega, RSW, Program Area Coordinator 1

Every holiday season, it has been a tradition of the Open Heart Foundation Worldwide Inc. (OHFWI) to spread and share its blessings to its chosen beneficiaries. For this year, partnered with the International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) in continuing this annual routine.

The last stretch of Open Heart Foundation’s Gift Giving Activity was conducted last December 5-6, 2022 in Oriental Mindoro. Our partner school, Mindoro State University, once again proved our strong partnership. Through close coordination with our very active coordinators, Ms. Evelyn Leynes, OSAS Coordinator, MinSU Main Campus, and Mr. Alexies Fortunato, OSAS Coordinator of MinSU Calapan Campus, and the constant support of both campus’ Executive Directors and the University President, Dr. Levy B. Arago, Jr.

The organization was gladly welcomed in the Main Campus of Mindoro State University in Victoria, Oriental Mindoro last December 5, 2022. In his message, the Vice President for Academic Affairs of MinSU, Victoria Campus, Dr. Nemesio H. Davalos uttered his appreciation to OHFWI and ICTSI for choosing their students as beneficiaries for the activity.

In her message last December 6, 2022, during the gift-giving activity in Mindoro State University, Calapan Campus, Ma. Arlyn M. Redublo, Ph. D., Campus Executive Director also articulated her gratitude to OHFWI and ICTSI for choosing their students as recipients of the gift packs. According to her, this will be a great help for their students.

Two of our very own graduates from Mindoro State University, Calapan Campus, briefly shared their journey of being scholars of OHFWI. Regino Dagos, a graduate of Batch 2022, said, “Being in the OHFWI scholarship will allow you to achieve your goals in life. Be committed to reaching your dreams because OHFWI is always at your back, supporting you until your dreams are within your arm’s reach.  In return for the assistance you will gain, always be kind, and try to extend your helping hands to those in need.”.  Angel Lampasa, also a graduate of Batch 2022, underscored how OHFWI helped her in reaching her goal to graduate from college. According to her, “Open Heart ang isa sa mga naging kaagapay ko sa aking pag-aaral. Lumipas man ang panahon ay mananatili ang aking/aming taos-pusong pasasalamat.” The testimonies of our graduates from MinSU reassured the organization that we are moving forward in empowering the children and youth of today.

Executive Director, Ms. Rosalinda Perez, extended her gratitude for the unending support of the institution to the organization. Because of their support, OHFWI wouldn’t be able to implement its Children and Youth Development Program and activities like this one where we spread the true meaning of this season– sharing gifts, and spreading love.

Prepared by:  Jay Frank A. Diaz, RSW, Program Area Coordinator 1

“Christmas is giving” so to speak.

‘Thanksgiving thru gift giving’ is a corporate social responsibility project of the International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) with the Open Heart Foundation.

The initial partnership with ICTSI started in the year 2020 when they conducted the first “PAMASKONG HANDOG” in Brgy. Rosario, Rodriguez Rizal, a barangay supported by OHF. This year, they again granted our project proposal for another gift-giving this Christmas season. This time, Open Heart identified Barangay North Fairview, Quezon City as the recipient of the project.

On November 29, 2022, OHFWI in partnership with ICTSI distributed 250 grocery packages to the families of Brgy. North Fairview, Quezon City. Further, to share the blessings, Open Heart Foundation raffled off for 20 pairs of Vans Shoes from Vans Philippines, while the Rotary Club of Neopolitan Fairview gave the beneficiaries their snacks.

Alone we can do so little. Together, we can do so much. The Open Heart Foundation would like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to our Sponsors International Container Terminal Services, Inc. Foundation (ICTSI), Rotary Club Neopolitan Fairview, Brgy. North Fairview and the OHF Staff who generously share their blessings, talents, and time resources for this event to happen.

Prepared by: Maejorie U. Ortega, RSW, Program Area Coordinator 1

Like any other non-government organizations, Open Heart Foundation works and build partnership with other organizations, donors and benefactors to bring out more impact to the communities we serve. 

On its 2^nd year, Open Heart Foundation is grateful to be the recipient of 200 grocery packs donation from Zero-In Concept and Production, a full-service event production company based in Novaliches, Quezon City.

Travel restrictions due to current Covid-19 pandemic does not hinder the Foundation in reaching out to families seen most in need of such assistance.  Their donations reached 200 families from Barangay Rosario, Rodriguez, Rizal and Sta. Martha, Palauig, Zambales. 

In coordination with Barangay Chairman Eric Jacinto, 20 barangay health workers and families of 50 participants of recently concluded feeding program for pregnant women of Barangay Rosario, Rodriguez, Rizal received the grocery packs.  Barangay Rosario has been OHF’s partner in Supplemental Feeding for day care children under the Health and Nutrition Program since 2019. 

Meanwhile, the Foundation extended Zero-In’s donations to our partner Aeta community in Sta. Marta, Palauig, Zambales, where 130 Aeta families benefitted.  OHF has been working with Tribal Christian Church headed by Pastor Benny Pulagay, to help mold the young minds of the Aeta children through the Early Childhood Care and Development Program (ECCDP) and Supplemental Feeding to improve health and nutrition of the day care students since year 2018. 

Once again, we are thankful to Zero-in Concept and Production, for sharing your blessings to the people and partner communities we serve.  It has brought joy and hope to the families, especially at this difficult times.  The continued trust and support of donors like you is a blessing to Open Heart Foundation.  As the quote said, truly, ‘giving is not just about making a donation, but making a difference.’   

To God be all the glory!

Prepared by: Janette Corollo, RSW, Program Area Coordinator 1

The Open Heart Foundation continues to bring programs to various places in the Philippines. During the Covid 19 Pandemic it is important to strengthen people’s resistance against any disease. One of the services of Open Heart to address this is the Flu vaccination project held on December 14, 2021 in the municipality of Luna, La Union; in partnership with a US-based organization; Philippine International Aid, founded by Ms. Mona Lisa Yuchengco in 1986.

The OHF team was warmly welcomed by the MSWDO head Ms. Jeanette Padilla. She expressed her gratefulness that their municipality was chosen as beneficiary of the free flu vaccine project.

Luna, La Union was severely hit by typhoon Maring in the last quarter of 2021 and caused heavy flooding that destroyed farmlands and sources of livelihood.  The executive director of Open Heart Foundation, Ms. Linda Perez, also introduced the foundation’s programs and services as well as the upcoming partnership of the Foundation with the LGU of Luna, La Union. She stressed that the flu vaccine project in this town was made possible by a grant from the Philippine International Aid (PIA).

The beneficiaries were 150 indigent citizens in the area and were identified by Luna MSWDO staffs. The flow of the vaccination project was well planned and organized by the municipal health office. The medical mission started  with a registration and screening of beneficiaries before the administration of the flu vaccine injection by volunteer nurses and doctors from Luna Rural Health unit.

It was another project made possible by partners and donors who believed in projects and causes advocated and implemented by the Open Heart Foundation Worldwide, Inc. Thank you PIA!

Prepared by: Cheryl P. Ocampo, Program Area Coordinator 1

The Open Heart Foundation (OHF) conducted Disaster Relief Operations in four flooded areas affected by Typhoon Maring in Ilocos Region.  As reported, Typhoon Maring made landfall in the northern part of the Philippines on October 12, 2021, bringing strong winds and heavy rains that resulted in severe flooding, landslides, and widespread damage.

In coordination with the DSWD Region 1, four municipalities were identified as heavily damaged in the province of La Union and Ilocos Sur.

Preparation has not been easy due to nationwide COVID travel restrictions and protocols.  Before the actual activity, OHF staff in charge requested certificate of acceptance from each LGU for boundary checkpoints.  The team also underwent RT-PCR test as required.  The Admin and Finance staff prepared documents such as travel orders, quarantine pass, certificate of employment, vaccination cards, company IDs etc.  The Fairview staff was also in charge of the marketing of grocery items and the repacking of 400 relief packs to be distributed to four areas.

On October28, the team composed of Ma’am Linda, Davilyn, Jerry, Tatet, Mark and Hanna departed from Fairview office at 2:30 AM going to La Union and Ilocos Sur.

For the first batch of relief distribution, the group arrived at the covered court of Brgy. Ili Sur in San Juan, La Union  at 8:00 AM.  The Barangay officers warmly welcomed the team.  Some of them helped in checking the attendance and the crowd control.  They also prepared a short program intended for the outreach activity such as invocation, national anthem, welcome message from Brgy. Captain Evangeline Sabalburo.  OHF Executive Director, Mam Linda Perez, also gave a short introductory message about the OHF agency profile. The distribution of relief goods to 100 families followed after all the opening preliminaries.

For the second batch, the team went to Brgy. Rissing in Luna, La Union which was assisted by MSWD officer Jeanette Padilla.  Brgy. Rissing is one of the barangays in La Union that actually submerged because it is close to a dike and most affected here are farmers because rice fields were severely damaged by the typhoon.  100 families from 5 Puroks/Districts received the relief packs.

For the third batch, the team travelled an hour from La Union to Tagudin Ilocos Sur.   For this area, the relief distribution was in partnership with Let’s Share Foundation headed by its Chairman, Dr. Carol Dacanay, who is a native of Tagudin.  Before the distribution, the team made a courtesy call to the office of Tagudin Mayor Roque Verzosa.  Afterwards, the distribution was held in a covered court in Brgy. Bucao East of Tagudin, Ilocos Sur which was assisted by MSWD Officer Laarni Acosta.  Prior to the distribution, the LGU also prepared opening preliminaries.  The Honorable Mayor also gave a message of gratitude to Open Heart Foundation and to Let’s Share Foundation particularly to Dr. Carol Dacanay.

For the fourth and last batch of relief distribution, also in partnership with Let’s Share Foundation, the team then proceeded to Brgy. Silag in Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur.  They were assisted by MSWD Officer Editha Laya.  Like in the first three areas, OHF also provided 100 relief packs for 100 affected families.  OHF also donated two sets of desktop computers to the MSWD office.  Santa Maria is also said to be one of the most devastated in Ilocos Sur because the municipality is adjacent to a river.  The roads here have been damaged by floods, covered in thick mud and blocked by broken branches and trees so they solicit immediate assistance for their fellow villagers.

It feels good when we give, share and think that the help we give somehow makes a difference in the lives of people in need.

To God be all the glory!

Prepared by: Mark Ben Dapilaga, Bookkeeper

The Open Heart Foundation Worldwide Inc. (OHFWI) aims to bring its programs and services to different corners in the country.  Even before the pandemic started, Open Heart already had a plan to expand.  It has already identified possible areas to extend its services.  But due to nationwide COVID quarantine restrictions and protocols that need to be monitored, these plans have been temporarily put aside.  However, Open Heart has not wavered performing its services and programs.

For year 2021, the Provincial Social Welfare of Development Office (PSWDO) of Cavite, helped the Foundation in identifying areas where to expand OHFWI programs and services. The PSWDO recommended the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Ternate, Cavite. According to them, many students are in need of educational support because the main source of income of families from the coastal area is only in fishing.

To jumpstart the partnership, Open Heart conducted a gift giving activity to help families who were previously affected by typhoon Maring and also served as its service project in celebration of the Foundation’s 29^th anniversary and the commemoration of the 21^st death anniversary of its Founder, Robert LeGore.

The assigned program coordinator in the area, Ms. Cheryl Ocampo spearheaded the coordination with the LGU.  Courtesy call at the Mayor’s office, ocular visits, and series of meetings with the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) to lay out plans for the activity were conducted in preparation for the activity.

When the strict quarantine restrictions were lifted, the Open Heart staffs immediately resumed planning, purchasing and preparing, then finally conducting the relief mission.  Ternate LGU also provided support by overseeing the selection of recipients, registration, crowd control and implementation of COVID protocols. Everyone worked together to smoothly implement the activity.

The Community Relief mission took place on October 26, 2021 and was held at the Multi-Purpose Hall of Barangay Poblacion 1-A where 150 families were the recipients of gift giving activity.

Staffs from Fairview, Quezon City travelled at 5am to Ternate, Cavite.  The team arrived at the venue at 7AM and immediately began arranging all the goods to be distributed.  When the participants arrived, the program started and Ms. Cheryl hosted the program. 

To officially start the program, Ms. Saleah Uclusin, Open Heart social worker, led the opening prayer followed by the acknowledgment of guests and participants by Ms. Emiliana Ilago from MSWDO Ternate.  With great pleasure, the Hon. Mayor Lamberto Bambao delivered his welcome message.  Open Heart Executive Director, Ms. Linda Perez, also gave an opening message in which she introduced the Foundation’s programs and services as well as the upcoming partnership of the Foundation with the LGU of Ternate, Cavite.

Each family received gift packs containing grocery items like rice, canned goods, noodles, coffee, spaghetti noodle with sauce, and cheese. Open Heart also distributed hygiene kit containing alcohol, face masks and face shields to each recipient.  Open Heart also prepared snacks for all.

The Honorable Mayor also expressed his gratitude to Open Heart for choosing his municipality to hold the event which he called Early Christmas Gift Giving. It was heartwarming to see everyone coming out from the venue with a smile that mirrored their happiness. Even OHF staffs felt fulfilled and happy seeing the recipients happy. Services is more important during a crisis like this. They feel that doing these activities together bring a deeper level of fulfillment.

To God be all the glory!

Prepared by: Susie Bedia, Admin Officer