Femee Soriano-McDowall
The ninth anniversary of the Soriano-Orodio Foundation Inc on 11 February 2017 at Grand Star Receptions, Altona North has been one of the most successful ones they have organised. Next year as it celebrates its milestone, planning is already underway for a bigger event to mark the progress of their mission.
The program started with the national anthems of the Philippines and Australia by the Young Violin Talents of the Foundation, followed by prayer from Dina Mananquil-Delfino.
The opening speech of the Foundation’s President, Nelda Orodio-Estores was inspiring, as seconds before she came up on stage, a lovely surprise turned up right in front of her – a family member flown all the way from USA just to attend this special occasion – a nephew whom she has not seen for 14 years.
Nelda’s speech warmed the audience as she shared her passion of helping humanity and the value of education.
The premise of the campaign is based on Article 28 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which states that every child has the right to an education.
She stated that although the Foundation’s help is only a drop in the ocean, to date, with the help and support of family, friends, patrons, supporters here and beyond, it has 40 young scholars.
Two of these scholars have recently completed university degrees – one of these two graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education at Mindanao State University, General Santos City, located in southern part of the Philippines; the second one with qualifications in Office Administration at Cordillera Computer Technology College, Tabuk City in northern Philippines.
Currently, they are building a public school library in the southern part of the Philippines. They are raising more funds- at least PhP500,000 for its completion. In April, Nelda is going to the Philippines to oversee its construction, and to meet their scholars.
Moreover, the Foundation has one nursing home in General Santos City that relies entirely on donations. The president and founder of this nursing home is a family member who donated the block of land. It has become the first ever nursing home in the southern part of the Philippines.
They are also extending assistance to homeless children in an orphanage in General Santos City by donating bed linen and clothing. The foundation is indebted to every sponsor, patron, family, friend, community member who made the evening truly inspirational in generosity and joy in fellowship. Emcees Gina Parker and Dina Delfino assisted in the smooth flow of the evening, with various entertainment from performers who shared their talent. Some lucky guests went home surprised with awards and prizes. DJ A. Pros was at his element with great music for the evening.
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