*Originally posted August 6 in www.philippineprudential.com

The Philippine Prudential – AMPAPP GK Village, in Camarin, Caloocan City recently celebrated its 4th foundation anniversary. Philippine Prudential Employees and Executives, led by President and CEO Gregorio D. Mercado, paid a visit to the village and joined in their festivities. The day kicked off with a Thanksgiving Eucharistic Celebration, followed by special performances from the village youth. The program ended with a generous feast prepared by the community.

Over the course of four years, Philippine Prudential witnessed the continuous growth and development of the village, evidenced not only by the number of houses, which began at 24 and is now at 55, but also the social, spiritual and professional progress of its beneficiaries. The anniversary celebration also allowed for the blessing and turnover of a new computer classroom for the youth, and the distribution of school supplies to the younger children in the village.

In his message, Mr. Mercado shared that studies are being done to determine the feasibility of future projects, as he sees there is still much room for overall improvement. He also affirmed the Company’s continuous support to the village and the Gawad Kalinga organization when he said, “Tutulong kami, ‘wag kayong mag-alala. Tuluy-tuloy ang commitment namin sa GK.”.

Philippine Prudential also turned over a check to Gawad Kalinga Development Foundation amounting as payment for the death claim of Mr. Efren Minas, Jr., a resident of the community. The family of Mr. Minas, who was insured by the Company as a member of the GK Development Foundation group, personally received the check from Mr. Mercado.

Gawad Kalinga is not a charity, rather, it's an organization that aims to end poverty by building empowered and productive communities. This would not be possible without the partners who have journeyed with us in changing the lives of others. Like Philippine Prudential, you too can be a hero to the poorest of the poor and partner with us in making sure that no one is left behind. Find out how you can help #endpoverty today. Walang Iwanan!