RAFI-DACF Executive Committee chairperson Maria Cristina Aboitiz (right) joins RAFI-DACF executive director Ma. Irish Andrino (left), Zaragosa barangay captain Rogelio Ybañez (second from left) and day-care worker Fe Gladys Mae Pepito during the turnover of a new day-care center. (Contributed)
The Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) turned over 13 day-care centers and child-friendly indigenous playgrounds in several Cebu towns.
Through the Dolores Aboitiz Children’s Fund (DACF), RAFI handed new day-care centers to barangays Owak, Manguiao, San Isidro, Tag-amakan and Lunas in Asturias town last July 1 and 2; barangays Punay, Tampaan, Saksak and Zaragosa in Aloguinsan town last July 22 and 23; barangay Cansojong in Talisay City last July 24; and barangays Bulasa, Talaga, and Usmad in Argao town last Aug. 24.
“RAFI donated only a portion to this project. The bulk of the expenses was shouldered by your town and your barangay,” said RAFI Chief Operating Officer Chua during a turnover ceremony in Asturias.
The DACF supports early childhood care and development.
Maria Iris Andrino, RAFI-DACF executive director, also thanked the town and barangay officials for spending time and effort to realize the partnership. “I am glad nga nagtinabangay ang tanan (all did their part),” she said.
The classrooms were painted with light colors and the walls outside were decorated with cartoon characters and flower designs.
After the turnover, the children rushed inside their classrooms and sat on child-sized chairs, with smiles on their faces.
Ma. Khyshagen B. Adlawan of barangay Talaga, Argao said what she loved most is the playground that was also turned over along with the day-care center where she could spend time with her friends after their class.
“It is not a case of giving money but how to give it. It’s really a great feeling seeing the big happy smiles on the children’s faces,” said Romy Ronquillo, RAFI Board of Trustees member.