The recent visit of Ms. Patricia Riingen, Western Union’s Senior Vice President for Southeast Asia and Oceania, coincided with the end of the three city tour of Mikey Bustos in Australia. It was the perfect opportunity to meet up with Mikey, the comedian entertainer, RJ Garcia, his manager and also meet with the Sydney’s core Filipino media.
RJ Garcia, Mikey Bustos’ manager, is Western Union’s winner of Western Union’s “Heroes for Better” competition which coincided with the company’s 25th anniversary celebrations last year. RJ Garcia received $25,000 for his Appledrive project which provides apples to children who have never seen an apple, let alone taste it. The project also promotes nutrition and healthy lifestyle to children in remote areas in the Philippines.
From the Heroes for Better evolved the “Chain of Betters” initiative which is aimed at helping people realise their project ideas. It is a chain of good deeds creating a ripple effect moving towards making the world a better place. It’s the cycle of giving; and about sharing blessings with others who are less fortunate. It’s all about building “better lives – stronger communities – and brighter futures and ultimately a better world.”
Through the Western union Foundation, individuals and organisations receive $1,000 (or local currency equivalent) for worthwhile projects that have a lasting positive change and impact on their communities. Projects have centered on livelihood programs, economic growth, education and health advocacies. (www.wu.com/chainofbetters/)
“It’s our way of giving back to the community,” said Ms. Riingen.
Ms. Riingen, who is based at the Western Union offices in the Philippines, also took the opportunity to talk on the impact of Western Union on the Philippine economy. Over 7,600 agents throughout the Philippines generate 646,000 jobs for Filipinos nationwide. Also, 14.5% households benefit from money remittances.
Western Union reaffirms their commitment to make a difference in the lives of people around the world. They’re moving Filipinos for better.
(Photo credit: Jade Cadeliña)
