Thursday, December 29, 2011

PUSONG PINOY'S CDO RELIEF PROJECT 1


We completed our Cagayan de Oro (CDO) Relief Project in a matter of days raising over P120,000.  Thanks to all our amazing heroes and superheroes who stepped up to help those affected by Typhoon Sendong by sending in monetary donations.

A big thanks to an outstanding Pusong Pinoy hero, EDWIN RODRIGUEZ of Quezon City, and his company, RCS LOGISTICS PHILIPPINES, INC., for partnering with Pusong Pinoy to ensure the success of this project.  Edwin did not think twice when Donna Rosario, founder of Pusong Pinoy, personally asked for his assistance in the immediate delivery of goods to the evacuation center.  He did not only offer his company's services, but he personally volunteered to go to CDO to deliver the goods on behalf of Pusong Pinoy.

On December 29, 2011, just 12 days after they communicated, Edwin took a flight from Manila to CDO. He went to the evacuation center and handed over thousands of slippers, bottled water, shampoos and bars of soap to the officials of the Philippine Red Cross CDO Chapter.  Present during this handover were Philippines Red Cross Headquarters Chairwoman MYRA BALANDRA and Vice-Chair DR. MODESTO C. BABAYLAN.  Pusong Pinoy salutes the Philippines Red Cross for their work at CDO in this time of crisis. 


THANK YOU, EDWIN & RCS LOGISTICS PHILS INC.!   As a long time HERO and supporter of Pusong Pinoy, Edwin knows that we value transparency, so he took a lot of photos to show how your donations were used and where exactly they were donated.  To see more photos, please visit our Facebook page (keyword: pusongpinoy.org)

You are truly amazing, Edwin!  Click HERE to read about another PP project with Edwin which raised PhP100,000 for our food drive. 

Thursday, December 22, 2011

PUSONG PINOY BOOKS WOW THE CHILDREN OF BURGOS, LA UNION

BY PHILIPPINES CORE TEAM LEADER NINGNING DOBLE


I am so excited!  I want to share with all of you several touching moments that I have experienced today! I think I have told some of you that while carrying out research on education reform I undertook a survey on the performance and impact of Project ABC in Burgos.

Project ABC is a program which aims to improve basic education in Burgos, through implementing a reading program. I visited 6 of 8 public elementary schools in Burgos, La Union to conduct the survey. And guess what? Of all the activities of Project ABC– and there are many activities for teachers, parents and students– those that created the most impact are the books donated by Pusong Pinoy for the children of Burgos on November 2009!

How did Project ABC use the books donated by Pusong Pinoy? Well, I guess it was hard work for the teachers and volunteers from the Municipal Hall of Burgos. The book donations for Project ABC were counted, sorted, leveled, accessioned, and divided for the eight public elementary schools. They were put in plastic bins, then distributed to the schools. Books stayed in each school for 3 weeks and were then rotated to the next school. In each school, the books are put in a corner, with one reading corner for each grade.

When I asked parents and teachers how they use the nice books in the reading corner, I was simply amazed when I heard the compliments. I had goose bumps while listening to their stories. The books we donated are being read over and over again by the children of Burgos. THEY JUST LOVE THEM!

Many of the books are now old and dilapidated. This is great news for Pusong Pinoy! Books are there to be used. The more dilapidated our book donations become, is evidence of how frequently they are being used by the kids!

That's why our latest donation, which was turned over today, is really appreciated by the teachers and parents. Now, they have more books to lend and to be read to the kids! They need all the books that they can lay their hands on! To them, this is not the time to stop… the kids are now enjoying the world of reading!

Just to let you know, here are some of the things they said about the transportable library program of Project ABC carrying Pusong Pinoy’s books. We could say that these can be considered as some of the “impact indicators” of our program- these are signs that the books are being used well.

1. The kids greet recess or lunch break excitedly every day. This is their, “Drop Everything and Read” (DEAR) time, when they can visit the reading corner and choose a book to read there, or take it home for the night. Mind you, some kids choose the same book over and over again! Reading recognition is enhanced with the repetition of words. The more often children see a word, the more likely that they won’t forget its meaning and spelling.

2. When the kids get home, they read the books on their own, or with their parents, siblings or even cousins. That's one book benefitting several kids at once!

3. With kids whose parents cannot read or write, the kids take the books home and read to their parents! Isn't that amazing? Our kids are reading to their "nanays" and "tatays". This literally brought tears to my eyes. The parents sit with them with proud tears in their eyes. Their kids are finally doing what they have always dreamed to do themselves– read! Now they feel that all their hard work to send their kids to school is really worth it.

4. Now, teachers find it easier to teach reading. Why? Because NOW, the kids WANT to learn how to read! Guys, we did it! We struck that cord in their little minds! They want to read! woohooo!

5. Some kids take the same book home over and over. They just can’t put the books that they love the most down. To them, they have fallen in love with the book. This is probably the reason why some books are now missing. The kids simply don’t have the heart to return them.

6. I only received one complaint from a teacher about the reading program. The teacher said: "Ma'am, why do the books stay for too short a time in our school? The kids have not yet finished reading them but after three weeks they're rotated to the next school" Still good news! That means, the kids want to read them ALL!

7. When the kids were asked where the nice books were - they all pointed in the same direction. They all knew where the book haven was! It is indeed their favorite part of the room. These kids have never experienced running their little fingers on smooth, colorful and exciting pages. Many of the smaller kids do not even recognize letters yet. They simply browse with wide eyes, as they make their own interpretations of the stories behind the illustrations. With these books, the little ones are being exposed to letters and words in a fun and engaging way. Pretty soon, they will memorize how these letters look. After all, reading starts with the alphabet.

These are just some of the wonderful things I heard today about the impact made by the transportable library program of Project ABC. This was made possible by Pusong Pinoy’s book donation to Burgos. I am not exaggerating when I tell these stories. I experienced the same reaction in every school that we visited.

I just can’t help but tell all the HEROES who donated books to this worthwhile cause and the SUPERHEROES who gathered books and made sure they were delivered to the intended recipients. Just want to let you know – WE ARE ON THE RIGHT TRACK! We are not only doing the right things- we are doing things right! If we can make readers out of the Burgos kids, we can make them achievers for life!!! And who’s going to stop us from making readers out of the other marginalized children in the Philippines?

Thank you all for doing the book drives unceasingly… the program sure is working!

In the name of Pusong Pinoy,
TL Storm (Ningning Doble) 

*Click HERE to read more about PROJECT ABC in Burgos, La Union.  For book donations, please email pusongpinoyorg@gmail.com.

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

PP HERO JUDITH'S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION AT LITTLE LIGHTS

PP Hero JUDITH MILANO-MADAMBA of Los Angeles, California celebrated her birthday with the kids of Little Lights Ministry in Pasig during her visit to the Philippines.  RUSSELL RUFINO and his dad along with CHASTA NECHVATAL who are also from California joined her at Little Lights in this special occasion.  A hundred kids attended the celebration and they were surprised by Chasta with a tahiti dance performance.  Pusong Pinoy would like to thank Judith for sharing her blessings with the kids of Little Lights Ministry! 

Pastor Joseph and his wife, Jeanette, were very grateful to Judith for sharing her birthday to the kids of Little Lights.  They stated, "Judith, Chasta, Rusell Rufino and Dad, you have given so much delight to this humble community and surely they will never forget the love you have extended to them. Our heartfelt thanks to all of you who came - to Ms. Chasta who made the children happy with her surprise tahiti dance presentation and most specially to you "Judith" for lovingly sharing your blessed day. Happy Birthday and wishing you God's wonderful blessings!  To Pusong Pinoy - Thank you for keeping Little Lights in your mind and hearts.  We love you all!"

Little Lights Ministry planted its humble beginnings at Sitio Tawi-Tawi along the riverbanks of the Pasig-Cainta boundary where drug dealing, drinking sprees, gambling, and street brawls are a way of life. Out of this concern, Little Lights was born. As the ministry continued its mission, they came across out-of-school and never-schooled children, which led them to start "Learning Lessons," a progressive Montessori-type learning system for ages 2 to 15 years.  Little Lights currently serves to more than 1,000 underprivileged Filipino children and their love ones to have a better way of life.  Deeply inspired and motivated by the works of Little Lights Ministry, Pusong Pinoy has been sponsoring their feeding and learning program since 2010.

PUSONG PINOY'S CHRISTMAS DONATION TO LITTLE LIGHTS MINISTRY


On December 18, 2012. Pusong Pinoy team led by PP Core Team Leader JOCEL TANEDO ESTOQUE and Team Leaders CLAUDETTE TANEDO, JENNY SORIANO OLIVA, and LANCE ROMEL BUCOY traveled to Pasig City to bring Christmas donations to the children of Little Lights Ministry.  Little Lights currently serves more than 1,000 underprivileged Filipino children, which includes out-of-school and never-schooled children.  Since 2010, Pusong Pinoy has been supporting Little Lights Ministry's literacy and feeding programs. 

During this Christmas celebration, the children and their families were treated with a nice meal (fried chicken, rice, macaroni salad, and dessert) donated by ICONS, a long-time supporter of Pusong Pinoy.   It was a fun-filled event with singing and gift distributions. We are truly grateful to all Pusong Pinoy Heroes who stepped up once again and donated the following items to make sure that the children and their families of Little Lights Ministry enjoy the holidays:
250 apples
500 ramen noodles
250 kilos of rice (5 sacks of rice)
250 cans of sardines

Each child received
1 apple
2 ramen noodles
1 kilo of rice
1 can of sardines

Pusong Pinoy believes that good nutrition is important for good learning.  The following items were also donated to Little Lights Ministry for their feeding program. 

5 sacks of rice (50 kilos/sack)
300 Pusong Pinoy notebooks
20 pails of biscuits
50 cans of evaporated milk
200 coloring notebooks
25 kilos of macaroni
25 kilos of bihon
20 kilos of powdered juice drink


A message from Pastor Joseph and his wife, Jeanette:"At this point we would like to bless highly those who endeavor to make our Little Lights happy and for all the wonderful support extended to our Ministry for the furtherance of our missions.  Thanks to PUSONG PINOY for being such a great partner and for steadfastly laboring to seek ways and means that the advocacy for our less priviledge brethren here in the Philippines be a continious work.  Special thanks to ICONS for sponsoring the food and for your steadfast support to our ministry and PRIME

Your commitment and concern to this ministry will cause God's face to shine upon you. As it is written; He hath disperse to the poor, your light will shine like noonday, your horn will be exalted with honor.  May the Lord Christ Jesus daily load you all with His graces, benefits and favors!
Maraming Salamat Po!"

Click HERE to read more about at our projects at Little Lights Ministry.


Thursday, December 8, 2011

PROJECT PAMASKO NG PUSONG PINOY III
(PP's Christmas Gift-Giving Project)



In the aftermath of two powerful typhoons that recently devastated the Philippines, it is critical to restore hope and spread joy in the hearts of thousands of disadvantaged kids this Christmas season.

With great fervor, we officially launch our 3rd annual Christmas Project, "PAMASKO NG PUSONG PINOY III".   We are hoping to provide gifts to over 3,000 disadvantaged kids and 650 financially- challenged families this Christmas season.  Please help us make their holiday season a meaningful one!


  DONATE ONLINE






 MAIL YOUR DONATION

Please make check payable to:
PUSONG PINOY
P.O. Box 546, Chino Hills, CA 92612



IN-KIND DONATION
For in-kind donation, please email us at
pusongpinoyorg@gmail.com




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CLICK BELOW TO SEE OUR CHRISTMAS PROJECTS THE PAST YEARS:

PAMASKO NG PUSONG PINOY I (2009)

PAMASKO NG PUSONG PINOY II (2010)


2011 PROJECT PPP III RECIPIENTS

DAMASCUS FOUNDATION (Bulacan)
EPHESUS HOME OF ABUSED CHILDREN (Bulacan)
ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI OF SILAY CITY (Negros Occidental)
PARISH SOCIAL ACTION COMMITTEE (PSAC) (Batangas)
CENTRAL SCHOOL OF LUBAO (Pampanga)
VALDEZ ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (Pampanga)
LITTLE LIGHTS MINISTRY (Pasig-Cainta)
BOLNOK LEARNING CENTER  (Palawan)
DE LA SALLE LIPA HILARIAN SCHOLARS (Batangas)

Saturday, December 3, 2011

FILMS CHARITY HIKE 2011 IN HONG KONG
FOR THE BENEFIT OF PUSONG PINOY


Pusong Pinoy is honored to be the beneficiary of the

FILIPINO MOUNTAINEERS SOCIETY
CHARITY HIKE 2011
Sunday, December 11, 2011 
8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Meeting Place: Jollibee Central, Hong Kong
  
 This event is organized by FILMS in partnership with AM1044 Metro Plus Radio, Pinoy Tayo Sanman (PTS), Hong Kong News, Jollibee, and One Journey International Magazine.

HIKING SPECIFICATIONS:
Starting Point: Pok Fu Lam Reservoir
End Point : Victoria Peak
Difficulty: 2/5*
Enjoyment: 5/5*
Terrain: Mixed Road & Soil

GEARS:
 Backpack with Bottle Container
 Hydration Bag with Bladder (at least 1-2 liters)
 Comfortable Shoes with reasonable spikes under the sole
 Extra Shirt (to change after the hike)
 Power Bars (snacks)
 Hiking Sticks
 Sun Visors (hat & sunglasses)
 Personal Medicine (if needed, but Medics will be on standby)
 Mini Towel (optional)
__________________________________________________

Come and join this monumental event as this will be FILMS' first-ever charity hike!  Mark your calendar and get ready for this once-in-a-lifetime event that will touch your heart and help others this holiday season.   The best part is that proceeds of this event will go towards Pusong Pinoy's Scholarship Program.

For more information, please contact:
JOEL BUHIA, FILMS Director/Founder

To learn more about FILMS, please visit their website at http://filipinomountaineerssociety.weebly.com/


Monday, November 28, 2011

PP'S CHILDREN FIRST INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION IN SCOTLAND



You are all invited to the

CHILDREN FIRST
INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION

Netherbow Gallery Space
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Edinburgh, Scotland
December 1, 2011 - January 9, 2012
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
FREE ADMISSION

Since 2009, Pusong Pinoy (Heart of a Filipino) has donated over 30,000 children's books to established organizations in the Philippines.  This exhibition will capture the essence of Pusong Pinoy's work in promoting literacy to eradicate poverty, where too many children have never seen a book or have limited access to books.  Click here to learn more about Pusong Pinoy. 

The Children First Exhibition is one of the many activities of the Scottish Storytelling Centre that aims to celebrate the world’s children.  Thanks to the Scottish Storytelling Centre for showcasing Pusong Pinoy.  Click here for calendar of events at the centre.

PP selected 30 photos out of 1,000 entries for this exhibition. Our sincerest thanks to all the HEROES who submitted their photos to help spread the word about the plight of Filipino children today and how Pusong Pinoy is making a difference in their lives.  Congratulations to all the photographers whose amazing photos have been carefully chosen by our exhibition committee to be part of this event.

Thanks to everyone who made this project possible, most especially to our Scotland Team Leader  DOUGLAS INNESS for organizing this event.  TL Doug, you are a hero in the true spirit of Pusong Pinoy! 

Friday, November 11, 2011

BOOK DRIVE AT FRANCIS LEWIS HIGH SCHOOL (FRESH MEADOWS, NEW YORK)


Early this year, our very own New York Junior Team Leader NICOLE CAMPOS and her fellow Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) cadets held a book drive at Francis Lewis High School in Fresh Meadows, New York. These wonderful students completed a two-week book drive in fulfillment of their service learning project for the JROTC program.  They collected a total of 150 children's books. 

Thank you, JTL Nicole and to your fellow JROTC heroes, for spreading awareness about Pusong Pinoy. You're all outstanding heroes!  We salute all of you for promoting literacy.  THANK YOU on behalf of the many children who will enjoy these books!

For information on book donation, please send us an email at pusongpinoyorg@gmail.com.

Thursday, November 3, 2011

PP BIRTHDAY BLOWOUT FOR RYAN LEBRON & GEORGE PACCERELLI AT PSAC



"Pa, I thought you're giving me a party for my 9th birthday?" was the question our Junior PP Hero, Ryan Lebron, asked his dad. He replied, "Son, you will, but it will be a surprise and it will be special...wait ka lang (just wait)"

Special indeed because on Oct 1, 2011, Pusong Pinoy and Parish Social Action Committee (PSAC) organized yet another Birthday Blowout in celebration of RYAN LEBRON and GEORGE PACCERELLI, another Junior PP Hero.  Both kids are based in California.  The celebration was attended by more than 200 Saudiville and Karara (Batangas) children. Some brought their parents and siblings along. Patrol vans were even utilized to help some kids get to the venue safely due to the bad weather.

Surprisingly, the rain stopped pouring when the party started at 2:00 p.m. There were games and prizes in loot bags for everyone who participated in the activities. Guests were also treated with a wonderful meal of macaroni, bread, and juice. The fun-filled party ended at 5:00 p.m. and guess what, the rain started to pour afterwards. What a BLESSING!

Thank you so much, Ryan and George, for celebrating your birthday with the children of PSAC and for being real 'KUYAs' to all of them! This only confirms that heroism lies in every one of us, regardless of age and differences.

If you would like to celebrate your birthday the Pusong Pinoy way, please contact CTL Jay at tl.tinytony@ymail.com or VTL Carol Vega at vegacarol79@gmail.com

Thursday, October 27, 2011

COLONY OF HEALERS FASHION SHOW BENEFITING PUSONG PINOY



You are invited to a fashion show by the COLONY OF HEALERS, the first-ever fashion apparel inspired by people in the medical field.

COLONY OF HEALERS FASHION SHOW
Saturday, November 5, 2011
8:30 - 10:30 p.m.
Rolling Stone Lounge
6801 Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood, CA 90028

Hosted by:
GISELLE TONGI

Performances by:
CLINT GAMBOA
MELODY DEL MUNDO
MARIELLE DELA CRUZ

Thanks, BRIAN MASAYON of COH, for choosing Pusong Pinoy as the beneficiary of this event.  Part of the proceeds will be donated to PP.  
Ticket Price is $10 at the door, but you can GET IT NOW FOR FREE:

enter code: COH to get your free pass

First 200 guests lined up at 8:30 p.m. will receive 200 swag bags.  
Pass includes admission to the party after the fashion show.

Visit their website at WWW.COLONYOFHEALERS.COM
For more information about this event, please contact Brian Masayon
(626) 524-7579 or colonyofhealers@yahoo.com

LET'S GO, HEROES! SEE YOU THERE! 

Monday, October 17, 2011

2011 PP'S DAMASCUS SCHOLARSHIP

BY LONDON TEAM LEADER MIKE HAYES
ROBERT TIANGCO, DAMASCUS FOUNDATION'S FOUNDER, RECEIVING A P50,000 CHECK 
FROM PUSONG PINOY'S CORE TEAM LEADERS BENG DIZON AND SUSAN CHUA

Pusong Pinoy is a Facebook-based non-profit organization which started simply with our founder teaching her children about charity and giving, and has blossomed into a global network of volunteers and heroes, all helping the poor children of the Philippines. The organization is just over 2 years old now and has collected and donated over 30,000 books as well as medical items, food and clothing) for impoverished and marginalized children in the Philippines. It's amazing to think that we can help children rise up from the challenges they face, and give them such a great chance at a better life for themselves and their families.

For our current child-sponsorship project, we are working with the Damascus Foundation to sponsor 10 children who have graduated from their preschool learning center and are now going to an accredited public school. Earlier this year, we sent out a call for sponsors to help these children and we have now met that target.  The good news is that the P50,000 collectively donated by our generous sponsors will cover four additional children.  Now, all 14 children have sponsors to help them through the next academic year in elementary school!

So who are the Damascus Foundation?
The Damascus Foundation is one of our recipient organizations in the Philippines, helping the very poor and their children on a day-to-day basis. Pusong Pinoy works with the Damascus Foundation by helping gather and deliver donations to the Foundation, as we do with most all of our recipients. They do the work immediately to hand, and we assist with getting help in the form of donations, sponsorships, and awareness-raising, as well as direct donations. Click HERE to read more about our work with the Damascus Foundation.

In line with Pusong Pinoy’s permanent policy of complete transparency, we will be updating our sponsors personally with information on their sponsored children, and will be keeping our Facebook Wall and Pusong Pinoy website updated with the progress of the project in helping these children in such an important time of their lives. Watch this space, great things are just around the corner!

PP ELEMENTARY SCHOLARS 
(School Year 2011-2012)
ABEGAIL DUANO
ANDREA NICOLLE TAMALLA
ARJAY AMANDY
ARLENE PEREZ
ERWIN PEREZ
GINA SARMIENTO
HEART GHEM DELA CRUZ
JASMIN FAJARDO
MICAELLA FAJARDO
MONICA GELUA
KAREN SARMIENTO
JANELLA LEGASPI
KYLA MAE LUCIANO
RAIZA MAE CASTRO

Thanks to the following HEROES for sponsoring these children.
You have helped them take one step closer to their dreams!
MARICAR CABASAG/GANO Excel
SARAH & JOWEE ENCINA
PINK ECHIDNA PRODUCTIONS
KARIN HAYES
CARMELITA MORDENO

Saturday, October 1, 2011

PP'S CHILDREN FIRST INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION IN SCOTLAND



Pusong Pinoy is inviting everyone to take part in the "CHILDREN FIRST INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION" at the Netherbow Gallery Space in Edinburgh, Scotland from December 1, 2011 through January 9, 2012. 

This exhibition will capture the essence of Pusong Pinoy's work in promoting literacy to eradicate poverty, where too many children have never seen a book or have limited access to books. We are asking HEROES to submit images which will help us tell the Pusong Pinoy story.  Sharing your photos will help us further our cause – to help eradicate poverty through the improvement of literacy for Filipino children. If selected, your photo will be printed to A3 size and will be a part of the exhibit.  You will retain copyright. 

LAST DATE FOR SUBMISSION OF PHOTO ENTRIES:
October 21, 2011

We are looking for photos which illustrate Filipino child poverty as well as the positive actions that Pusong Pinoy has taken to alleviate it. Here are some ideas on which photos will qualify for exhibition consideration:
  • Pusong Pinoy: the beginning (how it all began)
  • Donors with collected books
  • Book drives (collected at events, in cars, in garages, etc.)
  • Mobile or transportable libraries (ex. Baclayon’s Books on Wheels, DLSL Book Mobile Reading Program)
  • Boxes being shipped
  • Reading programs showing shelves or crates of books, volunteers and children
  • A volunteer reading a story to a child
  • Kids reading
  • Recipients themselves showing different kinds of emotions
  • Pusong Pinoy scholars
  • Turnovers of donations to Pusong Pinoy recipients
  • Christmas project (Project Pamasko ng Pusong Pinoy)
  • Pusong Pinoy birthday blowout
  • Kids eating, reading, and listening to storytelling
  • Kids happily inspecting their goody bags  
  • Pictures of sad kids or happy kids in a sad background
  • PP volunteers working
  • PP volunteers delivering packages
      OR aspects that will get visitors concerned and interested: 
  • The Philippines
  • Poverty in the Philippines
  • Filipino childhood
  • Filipino kids at play
  • Filipino life/street life in the Philippines
  • Learning in the Philippines
  • Children’s successes
  • PP work - making a difference
  • Work of recipient organizations
If you feel that you have strong images, please contact us via Facebook or pusongpinoyorg@gmail.com.  You can also email your photos directly to:

DOUGLAS INNESS (PPC Link)
Scottish Pusong Pinoy Coordinator
douglasinness123@btinternet.com

We prefer the original photo files from your hard drives. Jpegs are fine. This ensures the best quality for printing. Photos posted on Facebook are reduced in size, decreasing their resolution. To ensure that we get the best quality photos, please email the photos in their original sizes. Of course, if you have a great image, just get in touch!

Let’s go, HEROES! Spread the love for the Filipino children!

Monday, September 19, 2011

JEAN TSE'S PP BIRTHDAY BLOWOUT AT PSAC

BY HONG KONG CHARTER TEAM LEADER ANGEL JAY MARTINEZ


On Sep 18, 2011, a hero from Hong Kong, celebrated her birthday by sending children to a fun filled and memorable afternoon with delicious food, sweets, games and loads of prizes! The best thing about it is, this hero has done this before!

JEAN TSE, a Hong Kong based hero, celebrated her birthday the Pusong Pinoy way for the 2nd consecutive time. Similar to last year, her birthday party was attended by an estimated 150 kids with their families. This activity was held at Lipa City, Batangas with 16 volunteers from Parish Social Action Committee (PSAC) to ensure everyone had a superb time.

Macaroni, bread, sweets, and juice were on the menu while prizes were awarded to those who participated in the games and activities that day.

Jean, all we can say is "Thank You" for bringing smiles to the children's faces once again. May you be blessed twice fold for the selfless acts that you do each day. We, at Pusong Pinoy, will forever be thankful to Heroes like you and we will always be ready to organize birthday parties, such as this, for the benefit of less fortunate children back home. Looking forward to your birthday next year!

If you would like to celebrate your birthday the Pusong Pinoy way, please contact CTL Jay at tl.tinytony@ymail.com or VTL Carol Vega at vegacarol79@gmail.com

Sunday, September 11, 2011

PUSONG PINOY HEROES' RUN 2011

BY PHILIPPINES CORE TEAM LEADER NINGNING DOBLE


Come rain or shine – Pusong Pinoy held the first Heroes Run on August 28, 2011 in Baguio City, despite the raging super-typhoon Mina.  It was a great team effort, bringing together Pusong Pinoy heroes, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters from around the world – united in a common goal – to spread the word about our cause.

Thanks to everyone who made it to the run! The storm truly brought out the HEROES in you. Thanks also to those who wanted to be a part of the run but was prevented from doing so due to the closing of all roads leading to Baguio City on that day.  Runners, volunteers and Team Leaders from Baguio-Benguet, Manila and Hongkong braved freezing winds and rain to ensure that the HEROES who ran had a memorable experience.  Proudly wearing their souvenir T-shirts, runners of all ages took on the typhoon with big smiles, cheers and laughter.  PP is truly grateful to all the runners that signed up, all 706 of you and to all our amazing sponsors and supporters for always being there to support our projects.

Special thanks to Ms. Che Alberto and the Cool City Runners, UPPL Pusoy, Dawn to Dusk Mountaineers, BEGNAS Cultural Dancers, UP Shadows, the Noobs photographers of Pampanga, Ralph Quijano, and all our PP Superheroes for coming and helping ensure the success of our fun run despite the harsh weather condition.   Because of our collective efforts, PP will be able to reach out to more public schools and more kids in the near future. Together, we are making a difference. Thank you HEROES!!!


* * * * * * * *
Although 706 Runners have registered, due to the typhoon, less than 300 Runners showed up but we are happy to announce that the rest of the food that was ordered for those who were not able to make it, did not go to waste. Our PP Team went to Baguio General Hospital and distributed the extra food to its patients.
.

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

PP HERO TRISTAN BERNARDO'S BIRTHDAY AT LITTLE LIGHTS


Last month, Pusong Pinoy hero TRISTAN BERNARDO celebrated his birthday by sponsoring a PP Birthday Blowout with the kids and staff of Little Lights Ministry in Pasig.  They all enjoyed a wonderful meal which includes spaghetti, hotdog with marshmallow on a stick, and cheeseburger.  Thank you so much, Tristan, for touching the hearts of these kids with your generosity!  Upon seeing the photos of his birthday celebration, Tristan wrote, "Thank you for celebrating with me! I miss the Philippines so much!"

Little Lights Ministry planted its humble beginnings at Sitio Tawi-Tawi along the riverbanks of the Pasig-Cainta boundary where drug dealing, drinking sprees, gambling, and street brawls are a way of life. Out of this concern, Little Lights was born. As the ministry continued its mission, they came across out-of-school and never-schooled children, which led them to start "Learning Lessons," a progressive Montessori-type learning system for ages 2 to 15 years.  Deeply inspired and motivated by the works of Little Lights Ministry, Pusong Pinoy sponsors their feeding and learning program.

Special thanks to Pastor Joseph Casaje, his wife, Jeanette Casaje, and the entire staff of Little Lights Ministry for organizing this party.  Pastor Joseph extends his warm wishes to the birthday celebrant and Pusong Pinoy -  "Happy Birthday Tristan! May the Lord bless you - body, mind and soul.  Thank you for sharing your blessed day with Little Lights! Thank you, Pusong Pinoy, for keeping us in your hearts! " 

If you would like to celebrate your birthday the Pusong Pinoy way, please contact CTL Jay at tl.tinytony@ymail.com or VTL Carol Vega at vegacarol79@gmail.com

Friday, August 5, 2011

PUSONG PINOY HEROES' RUN

APL.DE.AP of THE BLACK EYED PEAS

DJ MIA of MTV'S AMERICA'S BEST DANCE CREW

ANNA/LA CHIKA of TFC'S ADOBO NATION
VIDEO CREDIT:  NIKKI ARRIOLA - BESTGLOBALIMAGES.COM


POSTER BY PP QUEZON CITY TEAM LEADER LANCE BUCOY

Jog over to join the first ever
PUSONG PINOY HEROES' RUN

AUGUST 28, 2011
LAKE DRIVE, BURNHAM PARK
BAGUIO CITY
Free Breakfast & Pusong Pinoy T-Shirt
(limited to the first 300 registrants)

For more details, please contact the following coordinators:
COOL CITY RACE DIRECTOR - 442 6046
TL ADI LAPPAO - 09186767651
TL BYD BAWAYAN - 09496485356
VTL JOANNE SUYAM - 09195061088
VTL MAJOY TOYAOAN - 09082565098
TL NINGNING DOBLE - 09228019305

Registration ends on August 23, 2011
Registration Centers:
GABLETS RESTO & CAFE (Upper Session Rd., beside Narda's)
CARDELI CAFE (Military Cut-off Rd.)
UPPL PUSONG BOOTH (University of the Philippines Baguio)

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT BY BEING A SPONSOR OR A PARTICIPANT
This event will help us spread PP awareness to more heroes
and raise funds to help sustain our cause.
Let's do this HEROES! Together, we will continue to make a difference!
.

Monday, July 11, 2011

PUSONG PINOY IS THE BENEFICIARY OF
MISS BEAUTY OF THE PHILIPPINES - USA 2011

.


Press Release dated June 27, 2011 from Blufizz Marketing Group:

“Who will win the Miss Beauty of the Philippines-USA Crown and move on to Miss World Philippines?”

The Miss Beauty of the Philippines–USA organization is working in cooperation with Ms. Cory Quirino and CQGQ Inc. – license holder of Miss World Philippines 2011 to search for a candidate that will represent the Fil-Am community this September in Manila, Philippines for the Miss World Philippines Pageant!

The night of beauty and glamour will be at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles, CA on July 23, 2011. You are cordially invited to experience this Red-carpet event, which is promoting the “Beauty of the Philippines” - its people, culture and land. The first annual pageant will feature top community leaders, artists and industry tastemakers.

Proceeds of this pageant will be donated to PusongPinoy.org, a non-profit organization that provides assistance to organizations in the Philippines that have effective programs designed to help marginalized kids learn and appreciate reading by donating used books to their cause.

The competition for the Miss Beauty of the Philippines-USA title will be an event to remember. Featuring celebrity guest DJ MIA, of MTV’s America’s Best Dance Crew, to grace the DJ booth, choreography by Ruel Noora, sounds and lighting provided by G2 Audio and Lighting. Hosted by Fil-Am Chamber of Commerce co-founder Joe Arciaga and celebrity Giselle Tongi. Ms. Cory Quirino will be a guest of honor.

This event is expected to have 700+ attendees including the Philippine Department of Tourism, Fil-Am Chamber of Commerce of Los Angeles, local business owners, entertainers, models, artists, and a general audience ranging from 14 years of age and above.

Presenting Sponsor:
  • Calayan Surgicentre Corp.
  • Flight ticket to Philippines sponsored by: Wilshire Travel Center
  • Hair and Makeup provided by: Cherry’s Hair Salon
  • Official Photographer: Studio 1003
  • Winner will get a scholarship from Elite Fashion Academy of Los Angeles – CEO Rene Esebag
  • Swimsuits provided by Bika Bazaar
  • Top 3 contestants will get $100 Gift Certificates from O-Skin Care
  • Rehearsal Outfits and Press-Con Attire provided by Prime Time Clothing.
  • Winner will receive a portfolio photo shoot from Hydee Abrahan
Tickets to this event can be ordered through www.wantickets.com -key word Miss Beauty of the Philippines, log onto www.MissBeautyofthePhilippines.com and/or contact:

RUSSELL RUFINO
310-591-8021

JUDITH MILANO-MADAMBA
310-494-6818

Media contact: AZE Media - Andy Z. Edralin andzedralin@yahoo.com

General Inquiries, Sponsorship Opportunities, Contestants, contact:
BLUFIZZ Marketing Group
4712 Admiralty Way Unit 1008, Marina del Rey, CA 90292
Office: (310) 591-8021
info@blufizzgroup.com
www.BLUFIZZGROUP.com

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

To the Miss Beauty of the Philippines organizers:
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR BELIEVING IN OUR CAUSE!

Please visit their website at


Sunday, July 10, 2011

PP HEROES AIDEN & NICOLAS OLIVIER BIRTHDAY AT PSAC


On May 2, 2011, our very own Arizona-based Team Leader JOCELIN OLIVIER and her wonderful husband, DR. MARC OLIVIER, threw a memorable birthday celebration thousands of miles away from home for their adorable twin boys, AIDEN and NICOLAS.

This year, the couple wanted to give their kids the gift of a lifetime by introducing them to the concept of sharing and giving by way of Pusong Pinoy's birthday party blowout.

A birthday party, attended by over 150 kids and their families from Centro and Labac, was held at Parish Social Action Committee (PSAC) in Banaybanay, Lipa City, Batangas to celebrate Aiden and Nicolas' birthday.  Thanks to the Olivier family, these disadvantaged kids experienced a fun-filled day with fantastic food and games.

THANKS AIDEN & NICOLAS! YOUR BIRTHDAY REALLY BROUGHT SMILES TO THESE KIDS! THAT WAS A SPECIAL DAY INDEED!  

For more information about our birthday project, please contact CTL Jay Martinez at tl.tinytony@ymail.com or VTL Carol Vega at vegacarol@mac.com.  Click HERE to see past Pusong Pinoy's birthday celebrations.

Sunday, June 5, 2011

PP's TURNOVER OF SCHOOL SUPPLIES AT SADDLE & KABUYAO ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS


Because of our kind-hearted Scotland PP Coordinator, DOUGLAS INNESS, and our heroes from TOY RUN FOUNDATION who have generously shared their resources, the children of Saddle Elementary School and Kabuyao Elementary Schools in Tuba, Benguet are now ready to face a whole new school year. 

On June 4, 2011, Pusong Pinoy team distributed the following school packets to 151 children.
  • Writing Notebooks (prep to grade 3) -488
  • Composition Notebooks (grade 4-6) - 400
  • Pencils - 453
  • Black Ballpen (grades 4-6) - 100
  • Blue Ballpens (grades 4-6) - 50
  • Plastic Envelope - 151
  • Grade 1 pad paper - 51
  • Grade 2 pad paper - 35
  • Grade 3 pad paper - 15
  • Grade 4 pad paper - 17
  • Intermediate pad (for grades 5 and 6) - 33
  • Eraser - 302
  • Crayons (prep to grade 3) - 101
  • Sharpener - 151
We would like to thank our Pusong Pinoy Team led by Baguio-Benguet Team Leaders BYD BAWAYAN and ADI LAPPAO with their Vice-Team Leaders JOANNE SUYAM and MAJOY TOYAOAN, and Pasig PP Coordinator JENNY OLIVA.  Our utmost thanks to our Pusong Pinoy volunteers for helping with this turnover:

ROSELYN DAMULO-ABASTILLA
JOVIE ANN DECOYNA
JOSEPHINE DEMOT
BERNADETTE KAWIG
EDGAR KAWIG, JR.
HECTOR KAWIG
LANI GRACE LAMARCA
ROXANNE MAGUINTO
ROSE MARY GRACE MONREAL
MELISSA JOY OLIVA SORIANO
JOSE SUYAM

Special thanks also to Philippines Core Team Leader NINGNING DOBLE and PP volunteers ADO CAJUAN, JEAN CABJUAN, and SHEILA LADINEZ for sorting and repacking of the school supplies for this turnover.

* * * * * * * * *
TOY RUN FOUNDATION is a New Jersey-based organization founded in 2000 by DENNIS JARIN to collect toys for needy children in their community.  Last December, Mr. Jarin organized a hugely successful book and school supplies drive in New Jersey to benefit Pusong Pinoy's recipients.  Click HERE to read more about Toy Run Foundation's donation to Pusong Pinoy.  Six large balikbayan boxes were sent to the Philippines which were received by PP Team on February 2011.  To learn more about this great organization, visit their website at http://www.toyrunfoundation/.

THANKS TO ALL OF YOU FOR MAKING THIS EVENT A SUCCESS!

Friday, June 3, 2011

PP'S SCHOOL SUPPLIES PROJECT -
"ALAY MULA SA PUSO 2"

Poster by LANCE BUCOY (Philippines-Quezon City Team Leader)

It's an exciting time in the Philippines. School is about to start. Pusong Pinoy has once again launched a school supplies project, "ALAY MULA SA PUSO 2" (Gift from the Heart 2).

Imagine going through a school year with no notebook and pencil. That's how desperate the need is for so many children for basic school necessities. To respond to this need, Pusong Pinoy has been collecting donations for school supplies. This is our opportunity to assist financially challenged but highly deserving students with their school supplies. Last year, more than 500 children benefited from this project. This year, Pusong Pinoy is giving school supplies to more than 700 children from the following beneficiary public schools and organizations:
  • Saddleback Elementary School & Kabuyao Elementary School (Benguet) - 151 students
  • Parish Social Action Committee (Batangas) - 200 students
  • DLSL Hilarian Scholars (Batangas) - 33 students
  • Village of Hope Shelter for Homeless Kids (Bohol) - 33 students
  • Little Lights Ministry (Pasig) - 250 students
  • Damascus Foundation (Bulacan) - 45 students
  • Mobile School/Mini-Library c/o Jong Herrera, a DepEd Teacher (Palawan) - 50 students
We are once again calling on all HEROES to help! Please show your support for these underprivileged children by making a donation today.  For information about this project, please send an email to pusongpinoyorg@gmail.com.