by Jaja Reynoso

If you celebrate your birthday the same way year after year, wouldn't you like to spend it differently and make it more meaningful?

Jay Ferrer , Vice President of Generika Drugstore celebrated his birthday last March 17 in our Gawad Kalinga community at GK Laura Drive in Taguig City. It was spent together with his family and their employees who voluntarily agreed to sacrifice their own family time and make Sir Jay’s birthday a little more special. Even their suppliers showed their support by directing their gifts to the activity instead of giving him personal gifts.

Mr. Jay Ferrer together with his Generika Drugstore family

When Sir Jay was asked what inspired him to celebrate his birthday differently this year, he mentioned that when his father celebrated his birthday the previous year, they organized a party for the kids in the community near their office and thought of doing the same. He said, “Iniisip ko kung ano yung paraan para makatulong ako sa iba. Naisip ko ang Gawad Kalinga para meron din kaming magagawa na makaka-apekto sa buhay ng ibang tao.”

When they arrived at the site all the materials for their build activity has already been prepared by the Kapitbahayan. Those that were assigned for this task started to get their gloves and ready themselves to get dirty while others prepared for the free medical consultation that they will be conducting for the residents. In the afternoon, everyone was having a good time playing with the kids. The kids even prepared a dance number for the birthday celebrant and later on was joined by some of the employees of Generika Drugstore.

Sir Jay together with the residents of GK Laura Drive

“I am volunteering for myself, if you need help, just call us and we will be here to help. This will definitely will not be just the first time. As long as there are opportunities, we are willing to help and this is true to the spirit of Generika.” - VP Jay Ferrer