In a heartening display of corporate social responsibility, the Ayala Group, in collaboration with the HERO Foundation, has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to providing educational support to the children of Filipino soldiers who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. Ayala Corp., Ayala Land Inc., BPI, Globe Telecom, and ACEN have officially pledged substantial financial support to the HERO Foundation Inc., marking a renewed dedication to the education and well-being of these brave young individuals.
This year, Ayala Corp., Ayala Land, BPI, Globe Telecom, and ACEN have collectively committed to contributing P2.5 million per company per year for the next five years. This significant financial infusion aims to sustain and enhance the HERO Foundation’s mission, ensuring a profound impact on the lives of these young scholars. Fernando Zobel de Ayala, chairman of HERO Foundation, expressed his confidence in the partnership, stating, “I am confident that together, we can continue to make a profound impact in the lives of many young Filipinos.”
The Ayala Group’s financial support will be strategically allocated to three key objectives. Firstly, the creation of a sustainable trust fund will ensure access to quality education and necessary resources for current and future orphan scholars from the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Secondly, the funds will bolster the R.E.A.C.H Program, providing additional support to top students, fostering personal and professional growth. Finally, the support will aid HERO Foundation’s mission to assist scholars in finding employment after graduation, empowering them to become productive and responsible citizens.
Since its establishment in 1988, the HERO Foundation has consistently empowered and supported the children and siblings of fallen soldiers. To date, the foundation has supported 2,733 scholars, with 1,240 successfully graduating from college. These graduates have pursued various professions, including engineering, nursing, medicine, aviation, law enforcement, and the military. The foundation has disbursed a total of P188 million to support the educational needs of military orphans, showcasing its significant and enduring impact on the lives of these young individuals.
Fernando Zobel emphasized the collective aim to achieve self-sufficiency for the HERO Foundation in the coming years, and the Ayala Group’s commitment brings them closer to that goal. By providing substantial financial support and focusing on key objectives, the Ayala Group aims to empower these young scholars not only through education but also by facilitating their personal and professional growth.
The Ayala Group’s renewed commitment to the HERO Foundation reflects a powerful collaboration between corporate entities and social responsibility. As these two entities join forces, their collective impact is poised to create a lasting legacy of education, empowerment, and support for the children of fallen Filipino soldiers, ensuring a brighter future for these brave young individuals.
