Afterglow: GK1World

Gawad Kalinga’s GK1World Expo proved to be a massive sensory overload: banners and tents of various shades and hues; a savory array of gustatory and olfactory delights; hugs, kisses, and handshakes from friends and partners- old and new; music and inspiration that fill the mind and satiate the heart. Thousands came to the Mall of Asia to celebrate the 4th year anniversary of the launch of GK 777- everyone awed or awe-inspiring in one way or another.

But one statement stood out, which I heard in our forum on child and youth development and health. It came from a former neighborhood bully in Bagong Silang who dabbled in petty crimes when he was younger. As of late, thanks to the renewed spirit of hope and sense of dignity that resides within him, he is on his way to becoming, arguably, the first Gawad Kalinga resident to become a lawyer.

He pretty much summarized what Gawad Kalinga residents, partners, friends, and workers learn and live by everyday:

Dahil sa Gawad Kalinga, natuto akong maglingkod sa bayan, mangarap para sa aking sarili, at mahalin ang Diyos.

Because of Gawad Kalinga, I learned how to serve my country, dream for myself, and love God.

It excites me immensely how great our country will be if we espouse the same ideals, a day at a time, one Filipino at a time. When we all band together with



as

Against Poverty.

Thanks Grace for the photos!