AN outreach and feeding program took place at the barangay covered court of Mambuaya in Cagayan de Oro City, bringing smiles and relief to over 500 children and their parents on Saturday, June 22.
This initiative was led by Rise Against Hunger Philippines and the Acosta Foundation, in cooperation with several socio-civic organizations, the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Philippine Eagles and the Kiwanis International, Inc.
Former National Secretary and Bukidnon Representative Neric Acosta of the Acosta Foundation shared his joy in participating in the event.
He noted that the Mambuaya covered court was chosen for its accessibility for children.
The event provided services and meals, particularly featuring "Mana Rice," cooked by the Kiwanis Clubs.
The theme for the day was "Let's end poverty and hunger."
Rise Against Hunger, the Acosta Foundation, the Fraternal Order of Eagles, and Kiwanis International distributed hundreds of boxes of biscuits and noodles.
Children aged 1 to 12, as well as adults, enjoyed free meals and juices, including spaghetti prepared by the Kiwanis Club of Golden CDO and the Royal Knights Eagles Club.
In addition to the meals, over a hundred children received free haircuts, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Northern CDO Elite.
The event aimed to provide not only nourishment but also grooming services to uplift the spirits of the community.
Kiwanis Division 4-A Lieutenant Governor Rod Seballos emphasized the importance of their mission.
Kiwanis International is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time, according to Seballos.
Though absent, NMR-12 Bagwis Dos Governor and Kiwanian Eric Daabay sent a message highlighting the positive influence of Kiwanis International.
"One day, all children will wake up in communities that believe in them, nurture them, and provide the support they need to thrive," Daabay expressed.
The event was a collaborative effort of various organizations, including the NMR-12 Bagwis Dos, Amihan Bukidnon Region, the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Philippine Eagles Inc., Rise Against Hunger Philippines, Kiwanis International Division 4-A, Climbs Cares, Strong Radio 90.3 CDO, and the Acosta Foundation.
Mambuaya Barangay Chairman Phillip Porras, also a member of the Philippine Eagles, thanked the organizations for their generosity. He assured that the outreach had no political involvement and was purely for the benefit of the community.
Several Eagles clubs under NMR-12 Bagwis Dos joined the event, including Aghasa-A Eagles Club, East CDO Timbalo Eagles Club, Royal Knights Eagles Club, Royal Knights Lady Eagles Club, Tagoloan Eagles Club, Tagoloan Lady Eagles Club, and Villa Anchor Eagles Club.
Amihan Bukidnon Region Governor Eagle Michael Jarvin Labunog thanked NMR-12 Bagwis Dos for their participation.
Under Amihan Bukidnon Region, Alae Royal Knights Eagles Club and Alae Royal Knights Lady Eagles Club were also present.
Reflecting on his previous role as president of the Alae Eagles Club, he emphasized the value of giving: "We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give," Labunog stated.
Labunog concluded his remarks with a heartfelt message, "Mabuhay ang Agila at Mabuhay ang nagkakaisang Pilipino," celebrating the unity and generosity of the Filipino people.
The outreach program successfully brought together various groups and individuals, demonstrating the power of collective effort in addressing poverty and hunger.
The residents of Mambuaya left with full hearts and stomachs, grateful for the support and care shown by the participating organizations.
