MANILA, Philippines – A large sign that says, “free reading to the public,” hangs on a tree that stands outside an unassuming house in Makati City.
More than 15 years ago, Ernando Guanlao or Nanie, transformed his home into a library that is open to anyone who might like to read, for free.
Starting with only 100 books, the 63-year-old former accountant kept collecting books until his humble library grew. He now piles up more than 1,000 books every year.
“My home, my library. It’s free, for everybody,” Guanlao said. “You are welcome to drop by, to talk to me, to see me, enjoy my place.”
Watch his story:
The WorldRemit app helps people support initiatives like this back home by letting them send money straight from their smartphone, instead of having to travel to a money transfer agent. Those receiving money—often in developing countries—can collect the funds as mobile money, bank transfer, for cash pickup or as a mobile airtime top-up.
WorldRemit’s service is available to senders in 50 countries. It offers transfers to more than 125 destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and the Americas. WorldRemit customers send 400,000 transfers every month.
READ MORE:
WATCH: Pinoy who settled in US 30 years ago never forgets family