Belmonte’s Galing ng Bayan Foundation feted for volunteerism

MANILA, Philippines — The Galing ng Bayan Foundation of civic leader Mikey Belmonte was named by the Quezon City local government as one of its outstanding volunteer organizations for 2018. 

The foundation was recognized for its invaluable contribution to economic and social development of the city and its residents. 

“I’m very thankful for the recognition. It is unexpected, and an honor,” said Belmonte, who personally received the award during the flag ceremony at the city hall Monday morning. 

The civic leader, a son of STAR president and CEO Miguel Belmonte, stressed the importance of volunteerism given limitations in the public sector. 

“It is an opportunity to give back to the people and make a difference in their lives,” he said. “I am happy to provide programs and services focusing on health, education and livelihood of the people.”

The Galing ng Bayan Foundation Inc. is a non-stock and non-profit foundation that aims to build an entrepreneurial nation composed of economically empowered and socially conscious residents through financial freedom to maximize and utilize the expertise, excellence and resiliency of people-in-communities. 

One of its main projects is the Diskarte para sa Masaganang Bukas (Diskarteng MB), a financial literacy program that aims to equip residents of Quezon City with knowhow on managing day-to-day financial activities. The program will graduate 290 participants today.

Organized by the Quezon City Barangay and Community Relations Department, the Local Outstanding Volunteer Awards recognizes organizations and individuals who have contributed to the city by harnessing the power of volunteerism. 

The awards are conferred in time with the annual celebration of Buwan ng Bayanihang Bayan or Volunteerism Month, which was authored by Councilor Ranie Ludovica, in the city.