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IAMRAFI: My Answered Prayer

The Story of Mileesa ‘Mel’ Ceniza Lumanog & Her Journey to Her First Decade with RAFI

By Marco Paulo Trajano Deligero | March 27, 2018

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Having a career which gives you fulfillment and purpose is a responsibility. That is what Mileesa or ‘Mel,’ has realized being with RAFI for a decade.

The best steps that we take must be of the best intentions. — That is Mel’s mantra.

 

On RAFI Being Her “Answered Prayer”

Mileesa Ceniza Lumanog, or ‘Mel’ as she is fondly called, joined RAFI on July 2007, as a Human Resources Generalist.

“I longed for a company that would allow me to grow personally and professionally as a Human Resources practitioner. I was in my mid-20s and was raring to learn and advance in my chosen field.”

“I felt that I needed [the] change, and I knew that if I stayed on and dared not venture to new and better opportunities outside of my former job, I would be missing a lot.”

“With RAFI, I could honestly say that it (being hired) was an answered prayer.” Mel said.

“I remember praying to God during those times; I just surrendered all my doubts and fears to God and surrendered to whatever His plans for me would be. And so, here I am, still kicking 10 years after.”

 

On Working with RAFI and on What Made Her Stay

Having a career which gives you fulfillment and purpose is a responsibility. That is what Mel has realized being with RAFI for a decade. She is now the Deputy Officer/Recruitment In-Charge for the RAFI Human Resources Development Team (HRD).

“Working with RAFI has allowed me to grow in more ways than I could have ever imagined; you realize that your job actually means more; it is not just a job that you are being paid to do.”

“I learned that I play a role and my work contributes to the organization’s mission and therefore I have a responsibility, a calling, to not just execute the job, but to do so with meaning and purpose.”

 

Mel also believes that RAFI has helped her to get out of her comfort zone.

“For me, the learning with RAFI has always been constant, which eventually helped me to leave my comfort zone. In RAFI, I learned to express my ideas, speak my mind, and to be trusted to do certain roles and responsibilities.”

 

Finding Meaning and Going the ‘Extra Mile’

Mel gladly shared some stories that have made her stay with RAFI exciting.

“Helping the organization recruit the right people for its different teams has never been easy. There was even a time when we were only two people in the HR team. It was tough, but I just continued doing my job.”

“To see people find their place here in RAFI, and thrive in the organization has always been my personal reward for this career. It fulfills my heart deeply to realize that we have multi- talented people here now, and the thought of how much we can do and achieve further [really] excites me.” Mel said.

“I also get to actively contribute to the Foundation’s work, which adds significant meaning to my day-to- day tasks.” She added.

“Going the extra mile, and being exposed and involved in the projects and programs like disaster relief and response are certainly on top of my list of answers to the “whys” of my continued existence in RAFI. This has been how I see myself contributing, and I hope that I will be blessed to do more.“

 

On Influencing Others and Career Impact

“I’m truly grateful for this chance to share my thoughts about celebrating 10 years with RAFI. Each RAFIAN has a story to tell, and it must become part of our mission to tell it, every chance we have.” Mel said.

“We have so much to learn and be inspired by the unique and worth-while experiences of our employees.”

“Being with RAFI for this long has never been easy, but I am grateful to be in a position where, year after year, I get to interact with all the service awardees.”

“That makes me feel proud and it validates my decision to stay and serve my purpose. Having channels such as these to connect – communicate, relate and understand the rich, colorful and all meaningful experiences — will hopefully give any RAFI employee a better chance to find and keep a sense of purpose with their job.”

“And in the words of Mr. Bobby, “Stay on course.”

“Full at heart, I am eager to run and leap forward in working towards #happyRAFI and designing that M.A.G.I.C.-al experience with the rest of the strong, compassionate, and competent women in the RAFI-HRD team.”

 

Mileesa and Her Biggest Career and Life Motivation

Mel said she draws inspiration from both influential and ordinary people, but in the last 10 years, people from RAFI have made a huge impact on her life.

“I have learned so much from those whom I have worked with — a co-worker, a leader, a big boss — and who have made an impact in my life and have helped me weather a lot of challenging times, both personally and professionally. For that, I am so grateful.”

“There are quite a number of people in RAFI whom I look up to, because in my experience, I have never known or witnessed people who have worked with so much passion and dedication. These people are the reason why RAFI is the kind of organization it is today.”

“As Mr. Bobby once said, ‘RAFInians are the modern-day Founders’.”

“There are employees, team leaders whom I have been blessed to have known and learned from all these years, those whom I barely encountered in the past but now are my great friends and mentors.”

“There are people in RAFI whom we may see as regular employees like us by day, but are “rock stars” by night, or in other aspects of their lives are as equally, if not, more accomplished.“

“There are employees who work silently [and are] in the background but are actually the lifeblood of a team.” Mel said.

“There are also those whom, despite positive and happy appearances, are going through so much in their lives, so I continue to learn and try not to be deceived by what I see on the surface.” Mel assured.

“My purpose grows more and more when I know that I have the chance to make a better version of myself by learning from the experiences, good or bad, that I have with fellow RAFInians.”

 

Her Greatest Career Accomplishment

“Being in the Human Resources career has never been easy. Perhaps there are no enough words or expressions to describe the complexity of the job.”

“But being able to help the organization find the right people and contributing to the success of our Human Resources programs and projects are what I consider my most valued accomplishment.”

“I’ve been here for quite a long time but I have no regrets making it through the years; I only have immense gratitude for being part of Human Resources’ successes in the last 10 years.”

 

Biggest Career Challenge

Mel said that she has failed many times and believes that each was a triumph at some point.

“It has also been quite a journey to find the right people for RAFI. I have failed many times; it has always been a source of frustration when I was unable to do as expected. There have been times when I felt alone and no one else could understand, and as a result, no one seemed to be of help.” Mel said.

“There have been times when I wished to do more, to accomplish more because I have been here for so long and I ought to have done much already. But as time passed, I have learned to overcome these challenges by showing up, going back to my “whys,” and reflecting about the people who are depending on me. That’s when I continue with my work, look for ways to improve, and find my way back to my mission as a RAFInian.”

 

On Being a RAFInian

“For me, being a RAFInian means answering the call to make a difference in this world, one that goes beyond personal and individual fulfillment. It is a multi-faceted, passionate, and purposeful way of life and living.”

 

On Leaving a Mark

“Given the opportunity, it is really being able to help new and existing employees find MAGIC — meaning, autonomy, growth, impact and connection. It is being able to help RAFI design that kind of employee experience that helps them discover, maintain, sustain, and grow their purpose in RAFI.”

 

Greatest Lesson

The best steps that we take must be of the best intentions. That is Mel’s mantra.

“I have relearned this from Mr. Jonar Dorado, our 2016 REEA awardee, in a recent conversation we had — that our work, the steps that we take, our efforts must always be with the utmost intention or purpose.”

“It is the only way we can achieve that genuine, holistic fulfillment that goes way beyond the material successes that RAFI brings us.”

 

People who Matter

Mel remembers a quote the late RAFI president Mr. Bobby Aboitiz said during the 50 th Founding Anniversary.

“I think Mr. Bobby saved that best part for all of us – to remind, encourage, and inspire us to believe in ourselves, in our dreams and “to make a difference in this world.” And that we have every opportunity and blessing to do this in RAFI today and the rest of our days.”

“Thank you for letting me share my story, it’s like I was processing my 10 years. Thank you very much. With all this, I am happy. #IAMRAFI.”

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“Helping the organization recruit the right people for its different teams has never been easy. There was even a time when we were only two people in the HR team. It was tough, but I just continued doing my job.”

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“Going the extra mile, and being exposed and involved in the projects and programs like disaster relief and response are certainly on top of my list of answers to the “whys” of my continued existence in RAFI. This has been how I see myself contributing, and I hope that I will be blessed to do more.“

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Getting out of a Stinky Situation to Succeed

by RAFI Micro-finance| March 23, 2018

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Cirila Panerio could not forget how she learned about customer relations in a rather unusual way — a fish vendor lashed at her for refusing to accept the latter’s money, which was wet and reeked of fish. To the fish vendor, it was judgmental and condescending.

The incident was in the 1990s — Cirila was young and already a mother at 19. She was not able to finish college but found work as a cashier in a mall in Cebu City. Her boyfriend then, now her husband, was a jeepney driver. 

She did not fully understand the fish vendor’s scolding but she realized more about it by the time she was selling fish herself. 

The mall where Cirila was working was gutted by fire. Cirila lost her job, failed to pay rent and had a child to raise. This prompted them to go back to Argao in southern Cebu and live with her mother. 

Cirila occasionally helped her mother sell vegetables at Carbon Market in Cebu City. It was also her mother who was introduced to RAFI Micro-finance (RMF). However, she never got to fully understand the records and systems of cash flow, so she prodded Cirila to attend the meetings instead. 

Cirila was able to join RMF as she continued to help her mother in buying and selling vegetables. Because of old age and health conditions, her mother eventually passed on the business to Cirila.

Cirila, with added capital from RMF, also expanded her own garden of vegetables and raised  chicken and pigs. Her business was doing so well her husband had to stop working as a paid driver and instead, help Cirila in driving her stocks of vegetables to the market. 

With this idea, they were able to save money and purchased vehicles. Cirila also saw the need to grow seedlings and vegetable plants, and use organic fertilizers. She now provides seedlings and organic fertilizers to famers in their rural community. In exchange, the farmers sell to Cirila their harvested produce. 

It was through this arrangement that Cirila learned to value her relationship  with those  who work for her—helpers in the delivery to the market, and in swine and hog raising, farmers who sell their crops to her, and customers in the market. She now understood the importance of respecting people regardless of their status in life because everyone goes through hardships, especially in doing business no matter how small. She knows that hardships cannot be easily controlled so she finds it hard to refuse to  help  people around her who need help. 

Cirila now believes it is always good to reach out and offer help than doing nothing at all. 

Cirila’s kindness led her to successfully expand her business and develop good relations in her barangay as an active member of the women’s association. She is also known to be supportive of her husband who is now a barangay councilor.

For Cirila, good relationships with fellowmen and committing your business with prayers to God are must haves you want success in business.

The Microfinance Program of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI Micro-finance) provides financial and non-financial services to micro-entrepreneurs with a mission of elevating lives of the vulnerable and disadvantaged communities through stable and rewarding livelihood.

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MCDCB-RPOD Meets with Mega Cebu Stakeholders from Private Sector

by Lord Anjelo Guia| March 23, 2018

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Recognizing the role of the private sector in achieving the Mega Cebu vision, the Metro Cebu Development and Coordinating Board Research, Program, and Organizational Development (MCDCB RPOD) gathered stakeholders to update them on important developments.

The gathering, called the Mega Cebu Report to the Private Sector Stakeholder, was held last March 1, 2018 at the Plenary Hall of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI)-Eduardo Aboitiz Development Studies Center.

Fifty-eight leaders and representatives from the business sector, academe, religious groups, and civil society attended the gathering, who were updated on Mega Cebu accomplishments, activities, and plans. 

RAFI VP for Governance and Linkages and MCDCB-RPOD Program Management Office Director Evelyn Nacario-Castro reported on the updates of initiatives and projects, while also highlighting the importance of the involvement of the private sector, of the Mega Cebu program. After the report, an open forum was conducted to open the floor to questions from the private sector partners. 

Several Mega Cebu conveners were present in the meeting including Gordon Joseph and Dr. Leonor Caneja of Cebu Business Club; Bunny Pages of Cebu Leads Foundation, Inc.; Eric Mendoza of Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry; MCDCB RPOD FABCom on Infrastructures and Utility Chair Engr. Jun Sanchez; MCDCB RPOD FABCom on Environment and Public Safety Co-Chair Arch. Socorro Atega; and Roberto Ybañez.

 

The gathering was also attended by Regional Development Council Region VII (RDC 7) Chair Mr. Kenneth Cobonpue, RDC 7 Chair of Integrated Development Committee Glenn Anthony Soco, Marken Aboitiz of Arcadis, and architects Yumi Espina and Omar Maxwell Espina of USC-SAFAD.

Joseph, who also serves as the MCDCB RPOD Execom chairperson, expressed in his closing speech the importance of conveying to their fellow private sector constituents the significance of the Mega Cebu initiative. “The private sector needs to create a groundswell of opinion…all of us should  speak about Mega Cebu and talk to our friends, about our hunger for change, and our clamor for a better Cebu for the future generations,” he said.

The Governance and Linkages Unit of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI-G&L) seeks to foster responsive institutions and an engaged citizenry through awards and recognition, good governance and leadership development programs, and active linkages and platforms of engagement and collaboration.

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Communication in the context of disaster is an aid as important as any relief assistance. The  right information given at the right time and through the right channels can save families, livelihoods, and lives. Information can give people back their future.

In order to build a disaster-ready RAFI and form the  RAFI Surge Team (RST), the Humanitarian Disaster Preparedness and Response of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI-HDPR) held another Communications in Emergencies learning event last February 27 and 28, at the EADSC building and CGM Visitors’ Lounge, respectively.

The learning event sought to impart knowledge on participants from the Reputation Management Team, Kool Adventure Camp, and Integrated Development Unit, and make them  appreciate the value of communication when disaster strikes. Another goal was to build a proactive media/communications-prepared ResponseTeam—always ready to provide information to affected communities, media, decision-makers, and the public.

“We want to emphasise the fundamental principles of communication in a disaster context, communication with disaster-affected population, and a learning organization and staff taking into account the Core Humanitarian Standard of Quality and Accountability (CHS),” said HDPR Programme Head Chris Estallo in opening the learning event.

Crucial role

Maryann “Mai” Zamora, a Communications in Emergencies specialist with local and international experience, was the guest speaker, who said that the half-day simulation made the participants realize to be sharp and critical in responding to an emergency situations and the value of synergy with the HDPR team.

Participants were taught to better appreciate their roles and the value of communication when disaster strikes. They also learned about the stages of a disaster or emergency clock, handling media during emergencies, content mapping, communication in emergencies dashboard, communication in disaster-affected communities. There was also a simulation exercise—a devastating typhoon somewhere north of Cebu—to test the participants’ learning.

“Right after the simulation, being RAFI’s Digital Media Specialist, I became fully aware that I am not just the person behind all the social media posts. I am someone who has a very vital, sensitive, and delicate role when it comes to communication during emergency and disaster. I also realized the importance of the phrase “Think before you click…” I can make or break my organization’s name in just one click. We really are not just communicators, we ARE communicators and we are hold a very crucial part in this field,” said Ojharra Manlosa.

“I did not know that communication in emergencies is complex andwill only be effective if key players create a system or plan. I learned that we need to ride the small opportunity of hype during the first 72 hours,” said Landolf Villanueva, KAC Youth Development Program Facilitator.

Assessing the participants’ performance, World Vision Communication Specialist Mong Jimenez, who acted as a local media during the simulation exercise, said they were able to successfully address media and donor queries.

“Their resources are also substantial; how they present it can be useful in an actual emergency. For emergency communication, timing is everything. How timely you feed resources is as important as the content,” he added.

The Humanitarian Disaster Preparedness and Response Unit of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI-HDPR) contributes to the effectiveness and efficiency of the disaster preparedness and surge capacity of the Local Government Units.


Focal teams of the eight local government units (LGUs) in the seventh district of Cebu attended the orientation for the district-wide asset-based mapping held last March 8, 2018 at the session hall in Alegria town.

The asset-based mapping is a vital component the Integrated Area Development program of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI-IAD) in carrying out its objectives. The information that will be collected from the IAD focal teams will define the vision strategy roadmap, and generate an inclusive development the entire district. It will also promote community engagement, ownership, and empowerment of the stakeholders and constituents.

Based on the result of the meeting of District 7- Ad hoc Council Meeting last month, three thematic areas of asset prioritization were identified — tourism, agriculture, and infrastructure. Also identified were the key person who need to be actively involved namely, the municipal tourism officer, municipal agriculture officer, municipal engineer, municipal planning & development officer, and chairpersons of the municipal council committees on agriculture, tourism, infrastructure, and planning & development. They will be tasked with data gathering for the thematic areas, attending all asset-mapping activities and workshops, site validation of identified physical assets in the seventh district with the asset-mapping team, and compilation of gathered data and information

The program management unit (PMU) comprising the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI), representative of the seventh congressional district, and the Cebu Provincial Government–Provincial Planning Development Office were actively involved in designing the process and protocols for district-wide asset mapping.

The asset mapping tools and pre-work templates were presented and discussed by the RAFI IAD Program Team. After the presentation, an open forum was facilitated to hear feedback and critiques from the focal teams.

“As a member of the district-wide asset mapping focal team this is very important for us to know the things that we need to do for the upcoming actual asset-based mapping. It gives us a clear understanding of the steps that we need to do, appreciate the processes, and also be ready for the tasks that we will be involved in later,” said Clyde Gail Mancelita, IAD Focal Person for Dumanjug.

Aside from discussing the asset mapping, the orientation served as an avenue for the focal teams to talk about their tasks and to level-off the expected output per process. The focal teams also noted that this exercise was needed to promote better relationships with the other LGUs and to put into perspective how they can complement each other’s assets.

The focal team then agreed to hold a district-wide asset-based mapping workshop on March 16, 2018, and that pre-work for asset-based mapping tools and templates will be submitted a day earlier.

The actual asset mapping will be done between the last week of March and first week of April.

The Integrated Area Development Program of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI-IAD) provides Local Government Units (LGUs) with technical assistance towards socio-economic development.


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IAMRAFI: Nesting Foundations of Learning

The Story of Bantayan Engineer and Environmental Planner, Ethereal ‘Et et’ Diaz, RAFI-DACF Partner

By Marco Paulo Trajano Deligero & RAFI-DACF | March 20, 2018

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For Engineer and Environmental Planner of Bantayan, Ethereal ‘Et et’ Diaz, her profession is her instrument in making a difference in the lives of her fellow Bantayanos.

Her involvement with RAFI-DACF, as partner, makes her realize the importance of education in the lives of children, which will eventually contribute to the future of Bantayan, Cebu.

 

Engineer ‘Et et’ of Bantayan

In 2009, the Municipal Planning & Development Coordinator of Bantayan, Engineer and Environmental Planner, Ethereal Diaz, Engineer ‘Et et’ to her friends and colleagues, started her partnership with the Dolores Aboitiz Children’s Fund of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI-DACF).

“As far as I could remember, I started the partnership with RAFI in 2009, it was for the RAFI School Rehabilitation Programs (SRP) in Bantayan.”

“I am responsible for the supervision of the projects from the pre-implementation phase to project implementation. I help in the identification of target beneficiaries, recommendation of what barangays are available and open for the projects, preparation of technical documents, until the turn-over of the projects, to name a few.” Engineer Et et said.

 

More than the Handprints on the Wall

For Engineer Et et, her profession is her way of giving back to her fellow Bantayanons.

“I continuously support RAFI because I believe in RAFI’s brand promise of elevating lives through a comprehensive approach that champions best practices in community development.”

“RAFI delivers what they promise. For example here in Bantayan, if they say that they will provide day care centers, they will [really] deliver.”

“The project package of RAFI is always holistic, it’s complete; from the day care centers to the educational and psychological needs of children, RAFI always provides what we need.” Engineer Et et said.

 

Taking on the Challenge

In implementing the RAFI-DACF projects, Engineer, Et et experiences lots of challenges.

“First thing we always consider is the availability of lots in the barangay. Regardless of how much you want to push through with a project in a certain location, there are times when there are difficulties in the availability of lots in an identified barangay.”

“To address this issue, the Local Government Unit (LGU) through our office, and RAFI-DACF look for possible donors within the Barangay who are willing to donate [their] lots.”

“The barangays were always very happy when they are chosen to be the RAFI barangay beneficiary.”

“And this makes me glad, I feel like I’ve made my own contribution in the lives of my fellow Bantayanons — It’s all worth-it!” Engineer Et et said.

 

From Challenges to Concrete Changes

Engineer Et et thinks that the childhood years are the most important factor to consider in the holistic growth of a child.

“The main purpose of this project is not just to build day care centers but to help in nurturing the minds of the children by providing them accessible, safe and sound learning centers where they could learn new things through interactions and hands-on activities.”

“Providing the children their jumpstart in education and life through building day care centers can be considered my contribution to the future of Bantayan.” Engineer Et et added.

 

‘Kinsa na si RAFI?’

Engineer Et et even shared a funny story during one of the turn-over ceremonies.

“There was a time during one of the turn-overs of the day care centers when the children were asked to prepare to welcome RAFI, their staff and some members of the Aboitiz family…”

“Of course, knowing children, some were impatient. When they were asked to practice their welcome greetings, some children asked ‘kinsa na si RAFI?’ (Who is RAFI?), and we can’t help but laugh.”

“The children thought that RAFI was a person, so we explained to them that RAFI is an organization consisting of people who are consistently making a difference. — Si RAFI ayo na (RAFI is good).” Engineer Et et said.

 

Remembering Sir Bobby

Engineer Et et is very thankful for all the help of the late RAFI President, Roberto ‘Bobby’ Aboitiz.

“I know how much Sir Bobby loved Bantayan, Cebu.” Engineer Et et said.

“I could really say that Sir Bobby is one of the reasons for the growth of Bantayan, making it what it is today.”

“Dako kaayo ang natabang ni Sir Bobby. (Sir Bobby has helped us a lot.)” She added.

“Have you seen the video where Bantayan honored Sir Bobby? That is our tribute to the great man, Sir Bobby, that shows the impact of what he has done for us. Children don’t need to cross the sea to go to school, anymore.”

“Now, because of Sir Bobby and the Aboitiz family, and their dedication & love for Bantayan, we already have day care centers conducive for learning.” Engineer Et et said.

 

People She Admires and Thank For

“First, I thank God for giving me this opportunity, I know now why I am in this profession, and this makes me complete.”

“To my family who are always there to make me smile whenever work is difficult, you are my everything.”

“To the RAFI-DACF, the Aboitiz family, especially Sir Bobby and Ms. Amaya, who have given everything they could for Bantayan, thank you very much.”

“With my story, I hope I was able to inspire people, especially RAFI partners, to continue, no matter how big the waves you face, it will be all worth it in the end. This is my story and I am happy. #IAMRAFI.”

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WATCH BANTAYAN LGU’S TRIBUTE TO SIR BOBBY HERE!

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“Providing the children their jump start in education and life through building day care centers can be considered my contribution to the future of Bantayan.”

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“My family who are always there to make me smile whenever work is difficult, you are my my everything.”

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RAFI Triennial Awardee Eddie Alih was recently identified as one of 19 members of the Charter Change consultative committee. President Rodrigo Duterte signed the appointment papers on January 24, 2018.

The committee, chaired by former Supreme Court Chief Justice Reynato Puno, is tasked to “study, conduct consultations, and review the provisions of the 1987 Constitution including but not limited to the provisions on the structure and powers of the government, local governance, and economic policies.”

Alih was the recipient of the Ramon Aboitiz Award for Exemplary Individual in the 2nd RAFI Triennial Awards. Alih was widely recognized for his outstanding work for others. He served as chancellor of the Mindanao State University Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography where he led improvements in the university’s management and administration, and focused heavily on institutional and academic development, and student welfare.

He is known as a peace advocate and mediator. His work contributed in bridging the divide between the Moro National Liberation Front and the government, helping pave the way for various peace initiatives, which later culminated in the signing of the 1996 Peace Agreement in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Currently, Alih serves as a member of the 7th RAFI Triennial Awards Search Committee.

The RAFI Triennial Awards is the premier social development award in the Visayas and Mindanao that recognizes the philanthropic, humanitarian, and holistic efforts of individuals and institutions in enhancing the quality of life of groups and communities. It is conferred every three years.

Screening and selection for the 7th RAFI Triennial Awards are currently under way. Finalists and winners to the 7th RTA will be awarded this year.

Since its launch in 1999, the RAFI Triennial Awards has recognized 66 Exemplary Individuals and Outstanding Institutions from all over the Philippines. Winners of the 6th RAFI Triennial Awards were Anita Castillon of South Cotabato, a 63 year-old woman dedicated to bringing education to the T’Boli tribe of Lake Sebu, and Kadtabanga Foundation for Peace and Development Advocates, Inc. of Maguindanao, an organization of former MNLF rebels focused on promoting peace and development in Mindanao.

Cancer has long since been considered a major health threat and issue worldwide, and having the disease is not easy, especially if you’re a child.

Children with cancer need affection, care, and psychological and social support. That is why it is important that we provide them with appropriate support so they can grow up to be productive and responsible citizens.

This is why the Kapwa Ko, Mahal Ko Foundation Inc. (KKMK), in partnership with the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc.-Dolores Aboitiz Children’s Fund (RAFI-DACF) incorporates psychosocial activities as part of the support for children with cancer. That way, these sick children can cope with the stress and anxiety, especially during the chemotherapy phase.

For 2017, RAFI-DACF conducted two psychosocial activities for its children beneficiaries. One was an art workshop facilitated by Fine Arts students of the University of the Philippines – Cebu. During the workshop, the children were able to express their emotions and feelings through art.

There was also the bi-annual activity which the organizers named, “A Day Away from Chemotherapy.” Both children undergoing chemotherapy and cancer survivors attended the activity, where therapeutic games were played.

The Dolores Aboitiz Children’s Fund of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation (RAFI-DACF) aims to improve Early Childhood Care and Development condition at the grassroots level by providing capabilities to the Local Government Units to effectively track children’s development and by constructing quality early learning centers. Its Grants Program also supports initiatives promoting the welfare and development of children in all ages.


Moalboal is a famous tourist destination for its white sand beaches and rich biodiversity across a pristine underwater seascape. It is also at the heart of the seventh district of Cebu and is quickly developing to accommodate the growth in visitors.

This is why municipal officials and employees find the district’s Integrated Area Development (IAD) program for the seventh district as a way to integrate the town’s development and consider the plans of neighboring towns.

To introduce the Integrated Area Development program of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI-IAD), the IAD team conducted a two-day team building and action planning workshop last February 22 to 23, 2018 in the town.

“The other towns in the district see Moalboal’s rapid growth, that’s why we should share our blessings with our neighbors. I hope that this activity will help the participants learn more for the future development of our town,” said Mayor Inocentes “Titing” Cabaron in his opening message.

During the activity, participants undertook various challenges where they had to work together as a team to complete. After each challenge, they identified the most important characteristics of a team that would be needed for the municipality officials and employees to address challenges in their work.

The IAD program was also presented to the participants to give them a deeper understanding of the program and its future activities. Rep. Peter John D. Calderon (Cebu, 7th district) introduced the program and mentioned that RAFI will facilitate the process, while he and the officials of the district’s eight municipalities commit to working for the district’s development.

The activity was the last to be conducted among the eight municipalities in the district. The municipal focal teams will next begin to gather data in preparation for the district-wide visioning and branding workshops.

The Integrated Area Development Program of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI-IAD) provides Local Government Units (LGUs) with technical assistance towards socio-economic development.


Supreme Student Government (SSG) Councils of 26 public high schools from Department of Education (DepEd), Danao City Division have successfully completed and implemented their  school and community project proposals, the output of a four-day Youth Leadership Program conducted by the Kool Adventure Camp of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI-KAC) last June 27 to 30, 2017.

KAC recognized the 26 Youth Leadership Change Projects during the DepEd Danao Youth Week last February 9, 2018 at the Danao City Civic Center. The recognition aims to acknowledge the SSG Councils’ efforts and leadership in creating an impact and address the issues and challenges in their school community.

The 26 public high schools were:

  • Maslog National High School
  • Cogon Cruz Integrated School
  • Sandayong Sur National High School
  • Malapoc Integrated School
  • Lawaan National High School
  • Binaliw Integrated School
  • Baliang National High School
  • Elpidio H. Perez Memorial Technical Vocational High School
  • Quisol Integrated School
  • Bibiana Mercado Integrated School
  • Sabang National High School
  • Ramon M. Durano Sr. Foundation – Science and Technology Education Center
  • Sta. Rosa Integrated School
  • Eduardo Gorre Memorial Integrated School
  • Guinacot Integrated School
  • Estefa O. Montes Memorial National High School
  • Ramon M. Durano Sr. Memorial National High School
  • Beatriz D. Durano Memorial National High School
  • Bayabas Integrated School
  • B. Durano Integrated School
  • DT Durano Memorial Integrated School
  • Ubaldo Iway Memorial National High School
  • Guinsay National High School
  • Nicolas U. Tiongko Memorial National High School
  • Raymund B. Hermosilla Integrated School
  • Santican National High School

The projects benefited Danao City schools and communities in the areas of health, waste segregation, construction, tree planting, cleanliness, sports, recycling, drug addiction, bullying, and teenage pregnancy.

The Kool Adventure Camp of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI-KAC) is the first and only fully dedicated Adventure Education Center in the Philippines. RAFI-KAC equips organizations and individuals with the character, competence, and citizenship to be leaders of change through powerful learning experiences.


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IAMRAFI: Seeing SilverClouds in RAFI

The Story of Leomil ‘SilverCloud’ Urpiana & His Journey to His First Decade with RAFI

By Marco Paulo Trajano Deligero & RAFI-KAC | March 13, 2018

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Leomil or ‘Leo’ started working with the Kool Adventure Camp of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI-KAC) in 2007 as an instructor, enhancing the skills of campers through the youth and professional development programs.  He makes sure that campers discover their own capabilities in defeating their own dragons through different physical and mind activities. All these he accomplished well, under his camp name — SilverCloud.

 

Building blocks of a strong decade

It all started when, as a college student, Leo participated in the Adventure program of the Kool Adventure Camp (KAC).

“I started my interest with Adventure programming when it was introduced to me through my participation in the Adventure programs, which was then conducted by Totits Ocampo.  I was finishing my second course of Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education Major in Physical Education that time.”

“The Outdoors has always been my interest since I was young.  Growing up, our home was surrounded with big trees and I would climb those trees, and that’s how I got engaged in the outdoors. I am also sports oriented, I can say that heavy outdoors is my solitude.”

“I am heavily into training, my goal back then was to be a Physical Therapist, but then I eventually took Secondary Education, Major in Physical Education because I enjoy the outdoors and being active at all times.” Leo said.

 

Encouraging the ‘SilverCloud’

Leo remembers that during one of his classes back in 2005 or 2006, his professor Astrid Ocampo, the wife of Totits Ocampo, introduced Adventure programming.

“I was enthralled!” Leo said.

“That’s the perfect word to describe what I felt back then. I was fascinated with the different aspects of the Kool Adventure Camp (KAC) because compared to other camps, the experiences of participants’ really leave a mark on them.” Leo said.

 

The Rising of the ‘SilverCloud’

‘SilverCloud’ started working with RAFI on September 1, 2007, and for him, working with KAC is not just work, it is a lifestyle.

“Being with KAC allowed me to actualize what I wanted and loved doing all my life, which is to teach or train.”

“But since the 4 walls of the classroom were very restrictive for me, being an instructor in KAC afforded me the privilege to teach and train with the outdoors as my classroom and their experiences as tools for learning.”

“What made me stay is that I’m fulfilling my life’s purpose in KAC.”

 

‘SilverCloud’ and KAC

Making an impact in the lives of people is a big motivation for SilverCloud, as he believes that this is his own way of making a difference in touching the lives, shaping the future of campers.

“I started working with KAC as the Youth Program Facilitator, which for me was a marrying of a personal interest of who I was … truly a perfect fit.”

“I think that my work of making an impact and a difference can be likened to planting a tree, we are only there to plant the seed, nurture it if we have the opportunity.  If we’re very lucky, we can see it grow, blossom and bear fruit.”

“With that in mind, I believe that I am making an impact and a difference in the lives of individuals, and organizations I had interventions with.” SilverCloud said.

 

SilverCloud, the camp, and the ‘aha’ moments

Campers are the most essential part of KAC, their experiences make KAC what it is today. As per SilverCloud, a feeling of exhilaration and excitement comes when people and the physical body are pushed to their limits, resulting to countless ‘aha’ moments .

“Once you join a camp, you will experience everything you haven’t experienced before.  Noting that KAC is the first and only fully dedicated Adventure Education Center in the Philippines, we make sure that campers are pushed to their limits, making them effective campers when they finish the course and go back to their communities.”

“Seeing the ‘twinkle in their eyes’ as they succeed the different ropes courses and finishing the camp and of course, the ‘aha’ moments, make it more valuable for me.”

“It is important that I help the campers have a better perspective of how they view themselves, how they view the world and how they view their future.”

“This is something I could do for the rest of my life … my calling is to train people and I am very fortunate that this is my job.” SilverCloud said.

 

‘I think I got it from my mom’

“My mom was also a trainer for the National Family Program, and I think I got it from her.  I put in a different perspective, my mom was also a trainer in an NGO, I must adopted her love for people.” Leo said.

Leo even shared a time where his mother brought him to one of her community trainings on family planning.

“Imagine, at a very young age, I was introduced to family planning and the how to’s of family planning in general.” Leo shared.

“This is something I love to do and I am good at, community and people development, something that I would like to do for as long as I can.” Leo said.

 

Challenges Leo, the ‘SilverCloud’ faced

“Setting up the team has been a challenge for me, coming up with innovations in KAC is a challenge, especially in creating new courses.  They have to be innovative, creative, relevant and efficient.”

“Daphne Dia and I handled the Youth Development Program (YDP) and we were assigned to set up systems and programs whereby campers and participants would be able to bring home with them – something that is relevant and responsive to their needs.” 

“Also, some of the challenges were my perspectives on expectations, frustrations and disappointments both personal, professional and societal. It was conquered by going back and being clear about my personal meaning and purpose.” Leo said.

 

The first decade of ‘SilverCloud’

“My hope is that RAFInians would find alignment and connection to achieve their fulfillment in RAFI so that eventually, they can be the best versions of themselves while making a difference in the lives of the people we serve.” 

“We should be the people who willingly plant the seed in people and help nurture them.” Leo said.

 

The Greatest Career Accomplishment of ‘Silvercloud’

One decade and going strong. Longevity is one of the greatest accomplishments for Leo.

“Continuously conducting Adventure programs for 10 years straight is one of my greatest career accomplishments. I always like to be where the action is.”

“There are times I want to give up, there are different factors like personal and social expectations. Then I eventually asked myself, what do I really want to do in life?  And I realized, it is training people.” Leo said.

“I am happy while I am training and seeing different campers change and making a change in their community.”

“Through focusing on the goals, all the expectations have gone away. I am at the tip of the spear.” Leo said.

 

On being RAFInian

“To serve and make a difference in the lives of people and organizations is fundamental to me as a professional. Sir Bobby set for us that vision, gave us that inspiration” Leo said.

“I keep on asking myself, why are we doing this? And my answer would always be, to serve people.”

“RAFI takes care of its people. I’ve always felt that RAFI takes care of me.” Leo said.

“They [RAFI] have helped me in completing my diploma, capacitated me with all the trainings I needed for my job as the Senior Instructor for Personal Development Program (PDP).”

 

On ‘SilverCloud’ leaving a mark and greatest lesson

“Supporting and developing leaders in KAC could be one of my legacies, including creating new programs for KAC.”

When asked on his greatest lesson he learned in working with KAC, Leo answered, “You are your greatest asset, take care of you so that you can take care of others.”

“Be the best of yourself so that you can give the best to others.” 

“You cannot take care of other people if you don’t take care of yourself.” SilverCloud added.

 

Sir Bobby as Leo’s biggest Motivation

When asked on his motivation, the first person that Leo said was none other than the late Roberto ‘Bobby’ Aboitiz himself.

“Sir Bobby – He was my source of inspiration, truly a very inspiring person, he always reminded us with his vision and commitment, he was our beacon who inspired us to head towards a vision that was never in our horizon.”

“Sir Bobby always had a KAC commitment check. There was even a time when he asked us ‘are we ready for this?’ We said yes even though we were not that ready yet, and we pushed ourselves to our limits.”

“He [Sir Bobby] allowed us to see possibilities and potentials that we never saw. He was our beacon of light.” 

“The Kool Adventure Camp was Sir Bobby’s dream.” Leo said.

“Of course, the KAC staff – they challenge me to continuously improve and innovate to be the best version of myself, for the purpose of making a positive impact with the individuals and organizations we serve.”

 

‘SilverCloud’ and the beginning of a new decade

“I am very lucky to be able to work in an environment that I love. Working with KAC has been my source of positive learning experience.”

“Ten strong years in RAFI is a journey towards IKIGAI (a Japanese concept that means a reason for being). Find your connection, your passion… and for me, your love for people development, be it for the youth or adults, once you have found your passion, you will find success and happiness. I am happy!  #IAMRAFI”

 

 

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“I am very lucky to be able to work in an environment that I love. Working with KAC has been my source of positive learning experience.”

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“Ten strong years in RAFI is a journey towards IKIGAI (a Japanese concept that means a reason for being). Find your connection, your passion… and for me, your love for people development, be it for the youth or adults, once you have found your passion, you will find success and happiness. I am happy!”

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The Seal of Excellence in Education Development of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI-SEED) is an annual evidence-based awards program that aims to gather and analyze relevant data as bases for strengthening, modifying or introducing new interventions to improve the quality of public education, engage and mobilize school communities, and promote best practices in 4 KRAs – Organizational Management, Instruction, Learning Environment and Performance. The program recognizes and rewards outstanding public elementary and secondary schools in Cebu with the use of evidence-based scorecard (rubric).

Launched in 2016, RAFI-SEEDs first run was participated in by 404 public elementary schools and 110 public secondary schools, whereby the first set of winners were awarded in May 2017.  Due to its success,  the 2017 run inspired more schools to participate:  658 elementary schools and 212 secondary schools.

A crucial part of the whole process of the RAFI-SEED is the Panel Presentation and Interview (PPI), in which representatives of the school stakeholders present their best practices to a select panel of evaluators from the RAFI Board of Trustees (RAFI BOT), the Department of Education (DepEd) and other external partners.

The scores in the PPI would comprise 20% of the overall scores in determining the Top 3 schools per category. Previously, the Top 5 schools had already been scored during the Site Validations (50%) and Numeracy and Literacy assessments (30%).

Last February 28, the Top 5 Public Elementary  Schools  namely:

Boljoon Central Elementary School
La Paz (Bogo City) Elementary School
Mabolo Elementary School
Maguikay Elementary School
Napo (Carcar City) Elementary school

Top 5 Public Secondary Schools namely:

Adlaon (Cebu City) Integrated School
Gelacio Babao (Carcar City) Memorial National High School
Jagobiao National High School
Jovencio N. Masong (Bogo City) National High School
Mantalongon National High School

They have presented to the panel of judges composed of the RAFI BOT members Mrs. Marian C Aboitiz and Amaya Aboitiz-Fansler, RAFI President & COO Dominica B Chua, DepEd Regional Director Dr. Juliet A Jeruta, Coalition for Better Education President Engr. Ruben Laraya, and University of San Jose-Recoletos College of Education Dean Jestoni Babia.

The schools presented their School Profiles, School Improvement Plans vs Actual accomplishments, Projects and Sources of Funds/Resource mobilization Initiatives, Best practices in Organizational Management, Instruction, Learning Environment, Performance and lastly, what they would do if they would win the top grant prizes.

The panel assessed them on their Delivery of Presentation (10%), Content of the Presentation (20%), Actual accomplishments vs Targets (30%), and Best Practices (40%).

It was indeed a great opportunity for the panel to hear first-hand from the schools and to interact with them.  The first-time hosting talents of RAFI-EDU’s Project Engineer Christian Inego and Program Officer Abigail Basas were also showcased.

The RAFI-SEED 2017 run shall culminate in a gathering of all the top schools in both categories (Elementary and Secondary) where the winners will be announced on May 11, 2018 at the Grand Convention Center, Cebu City.  The Grant prizes up for grabs, totalling P6.8M, are the following:  First place – P1.5M each, Second place – P1M each, Third place – P500T each.  The other outstanding schools shall each receive P200T.

The Education Development Unit of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI-EDU) helps in the formation of effective learning environments by providing high-quality, cost-effective school infrastructure and by capacitating school communities for the continuous improvement of learning outcomes.