Miguel Romero Foundation offers opportunities for 23 Manobo kids
MANILA, Philippines — Twenty-three Manobo children from remote communities in North Cotabato were formally welcomed last Saturday into a new chapter of education, care, and opportunity during a ceremony with collaborating organizations — the AFP-Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), Miguel Romero Foundation (MRF), and the Tuloy Foundation in Alabang, Muntinlupa City.
The welcome rites were held at the JSOC grounds in Camp Aguinaldo, with Maj. Gen. Rosendo Abad, Commander of JSOC, leading the welcome as Brig. Gen. Mikee Romero, PAF (Res.), Wing Commander of TOW-Reserve Northern Luzon and Chairman of the Association of Reservists and Reservist Administrators of the Philippines, Inc. served as guest of honor and speaker.
General Abad underscored the importance of cooperation among government agencies, local communities, and civil society organizations in helping vulnerable children access opportunities for a better future.
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The children will now be enrolled in the residential care and educational programs of the Tuloy Foundation in Alabang, Muntinlupa City with a donation of P150,000 for their care by the Miguel Romero Foundation.
General Abad’s office called on supporting agencies to ensure the success of this multi-sectoral initiative to help the children.
The children, who were earlier treated to delightful snacks at a fast food chain and a boodle fight lunch with soldiers and reservists, also rendered a welcome Manobo dance presentation accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of indigenous gongs, proudly showcasing their heritage.
In his message, Brigadier General Romero reminded the children that many individuals and organizations had worked together to make their journey possible.“There is an abundance of care for you and we truly desire you take this opportunity and promise to finish your studies,” Romero said.
Recalling the saying, “It takes a village to raise a child,” Romero cited the initiatives reflected the collective efforts of community leaders, local government officials, humanitarian advocates, military personnel, and private citizens committed to helping young people build a brighter future.
“We are now part of your lives,” he said. “This is your opportunity to study, to grow, and to break free from poverty.”
He encouraged the children to value education, discipline, and kindness, stressing that success is measured not only by wealth or status but by character and service to others.
The military officials distributed MRF gifts of school bags equipped with complete sets of school supplies and play stuff to all 23 Manobo children.
The gesture drew excitement from the children and underscored the commitment of supporters and partners to help them begin their educational journey.
Representing the Tuloy Foundation at the welcome was Jojo Perez while the foundation founder,Salesian priest Fr. Marciano “Rocky” Evangelista, awaited the arrival of the children in Alabang with a warm and touching welcome together with other foundation beneficiaries.
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Perez said the children would receive education, healthcare, values formation, sports development, and vocational training under the Tuloy Foundation’s comprehensive child development program.
The 23 Manobo children were referred to the Tuloy Foundation through the collective efforts of community leaders, local government partners, humanitarian advocates.
JSOC assisted in coordinating the activity and hosted the welcome ceremony as part of its continuing support for peacebuilding and community engagement initiatives.
Officials described the initiative as a powerful example of how local communities, private citizens, humanitarian organizations, local government units, and the military can work together to create opportunities for vulnerable children and indigenous communities.
For the 23 young Manobo beneficiaries, the journey from the mountains of North Cotabato to Tuloy Village marks not merely a change in location, but the beginning of a future filled with hope, education, and opportunity.
