"Puso at Sigasig" Metrobank Foundation 2019 Annual Report

PUSO at SIGASIG

2019 ANNUAL REPORT

P20M

50

WORTH OF GRANTS DONATED IN 2019

10

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS IN 2019

145

METROBANK FOUNDATION OUTSTANDING FILIPINOS AWARDED (4 TEACHERS, 3 SOLDIERS, 3 POLICE OFFICERS)

PARTICIPATING COMPANIES AND ORGANIZATIONS FOR THE NATIONAL TEACHERS’ MONTH

403,707

STUDENTS JOINED THE NATIONWIDE MMC ELIMINATION ROUNDS REPRESENTING 218 DEPED DIVISIONS

24,115

INDIVIDUALS ASSISTED UNDER THE HEAL (HEALTH, EDUCATION, ARTS, AND LIVELIHOOD) THRUSTS OF THE GRANTS PROGRAM

A HEART that perseveres in earnest ZEAL for the nation.

The HEART for the community that started it all continues to be the Metrobank Foundation’s rallying front, 40 years later. It never tires, never falters, never stops.

It is sustained by the flame of ZEAL, enkindling on and on towards the unwavering commitment to excel, engage, and empower communities.

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38

SCHOLARS FINISHED COLLEGE

5

VISUAL ARTISTS AS 2019 METROBANK ART & DESIGN EXCELLENCE (MADE) AWARDEES

ANVIL AWARDS RECEIVED IN 2019

4

QUILL AWARDS RECEIVED IN 2019

10,947

FAMILIES ASSISTED DURING CALAMITIES AND DISASTER RESPONSE

VISION To be the country’s premier corporate philanthropic foundation contributing a significant impact on social development.

MISSION As the heart of the Metrobank Group, we live up to our “Excel. Engage. Empower.” roadmap that embodies who we are and what we do.

The Foundation shall endeavor to be the country’s premier corporate philanthropic foundation contributing a significant impact on social development.

As a development organization, we aim to uplift individuals and the sectors they represent and strategically link with institutions for a shared purpose.

By creating and propagating a culture of excellence and providing solutions to stakeholder’s needs, we continuously expand our scope of reach and be at the forefront in serving communities.

“Excel. Engage. Empower.” or the 3Es shall remain our roadmap.

PUSO at SIGASIG The virtue of the heart is mankind’s common language.

It is passed on from generation to generation, from family to neighbors to acquaintances to strangers.

From there springs the significance of zeal—one that gets us to stay persistent and makes us see the world through commonalities of the heart.

We all are so deeply intertwined, so inscrutably involved with one another, that we have no choice but to love all.

This year’s Metrobank Foundation Annual Report is an ode to that: the almost ethereal, always rewarding sacredness of human connections born out of heart and zeal.

Such is a sense of belonging that goes beyond a bloodline.

Puso at Sigasig is a call to nurturing authenticity, and creating common grounds for kinship and community.

This is how humankind will evolve to become better.

This is how we change the world.

ABOUT THE COVER A large part of what we are and what we become, we owe to mentors who not only cross our path, but guide our way patiently through it. In the same way, we all have the universal responsibility to contribute to the worth of others. This is an irrevocable truth that we aim to capture on the cover of this year’s Annual Report.

Former Metrobank Foundation ACCESS scholar Jasper Munji with wife Jackie, son Jaden, and daughter Janella

CONTENTS Puso at Sigasig Message from the Chairman Message from the Chairman of the Board of Advisers and the President 6 Four Decades of Puso at Sigasig: Metrobank Foundation’s 40th Anniversary Celebration 8 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos 18 Metrobank-MTAP-DepEd Math Challenge (MMC) 22 Metrobank Scholarship Program (MSP) 26 Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE) 1 2 4

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Grants & Social Development Partnerships Disaster Response Metrobank Foundation Professorial Chair Lectures Metrobank Foundation Fellowship in Public Service Awards & Recognition Board of Advisers Board of Trustees Officers Roster of Awardees and Scholar Graduates 2019 Selected Social Development Partners

We all are instruments of one another’s healing and improvement. The cover features 2006 Metrobank Art & Design (MADE) awardee and 2019 Award for Continuing Excellence and Service (ACES) recipient Mervy C. Pueblo passing on to her nephew Apollo her gift for the visual arts. As a sculptor-educator, she continues to share her artistry wherever it may lead her. She uses art as a medium to capture and magnify her observations of the contemporary world, and guide the students under her tutelage to find their authentic voice as artists. Through her works, she seeks to inspire the next generation of creatives to challenge the convention, and tap into the possibilities of purposeful, socially engaged art.

The process of collective transformation, it turns out, is nothing more than a series of small, inconsequential sacrifices. It always begins with a single person touched, a single life changed.

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“We look with optimism to the future as we pursue initiatives to empower our stakeholders and create lasting impact.”

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN

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ince 1962, the Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company (Metrobank) has made it its mission to stay ahead of the curve, rise to the challenges of our times, and go beyond excellence to serve clients and communities.

Our late founder, Dr. George Ty Siao Kian, had always espoused this humble yet strong vision—to create an institution that defines ‘meaningful banking.’

This aspiration has since compelled us to act, and formed the bedrock of our commitment to our employees, partners, and stakeholders.

On top of all we do in business is our ‘heart for the community,’ realized through our corporate social responsibility arm—the Metrobank Foundation.

Since its establishment in 1979, the Metrobank Foundation has always contributed to nationbuilding through various corporate social responsibility programs that focus on public service excellence, education, visual arts, and cross-sectoral collaborations.

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In 2019, the Foundation sustained the conduct of its annual flagship recognition programs: Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos that recognizes exemplary teachers, soldiers, and police officers and the Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE) that fosters the creativity and artistry of Filipino painters and sculptors. Programs in education, namely the Metrobank-MTAP-DepEd Math Challenge (MMC), Metrobank Scholarship Program (MSP), and National Teachers’ Month (NTM) were likewise successfully executed to cater to a number of stakeholders.

The Foundation’s grants program has also witnessed new and enduring alliances with social development partners in the fields of HEAL—health, education, arts, and livelihood. Further, humanitarian aid through disaster relief interventions were set in place for affected communities of the earthquakes in Batanes and Mindanao, the dengue epidemic in the Visayas region, Typhoon Tisoy in Bicol and Eastern Visayas, and Typhoon Ursula in Eastern Samar and Biliran Province.

These efforts have seen the rise of collaboration and volunteerism among Metrobank Group employees, partners, and stakeholders—proof that the virtues of heart and zeal continue to create an impact in the broader community.

It is worth mentioning that during this unprecedented crisis brought about by the COVID-19 virus, this 2020, Metrobank and GT Capital Holdings donated an amount in excess of PhP 200 million to fund and support efforts to combat the pandemic and help those in need. The amount was allocated for the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPEs) to benefit healthcare and security frontliners; support for the production of testing kits through the UP National Institutes of Health; ‘Project Ugnayan’ led by the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation; distribution of meals and food packs to underprivileged families; set-up of a molecular laboratory for the testing of cases through the Philippine Red Cross; and project ARK (Anti-body Rapid test Kits) of GoNegosyo (Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship Foundation).

As in any time of need, it has always been our utmost priority to continuously look for opportunities to create a positive social impact on our stakeholders and beneficiaries. We operate under the premise that regardless of the challenges that may arise, we remain undeterred to respond to the Filipinos’ call for collective action.

On our 40th year, we are pleased to share with you this Annual Report that highlights our flagship programs. These are the results of the commitment and action of our staff, working in tandem with our many partners, all in pursuit of being the Filipino people’s partner in achieving progress.

We take this opportunity to thank the individuals and institutions who continue to collaborate with us and push us to innovate. Their presence drives our confidence and inspires us to continue reaching for our shared goals.

We look with optimism to the future as we pursue initiatives to empower our stakeholders and create lasting impact. Rest assured, we will continue our efforts in the name of nation-building.

ARTHUR V. TY Chairman

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“ Puso at Sigasig is our guidepost as we continue this domino effect of shining a light on opportunities that expand access, provide recognition, and demonstrate the possibilities of a better future for all.”

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF ADVISERS AND THE PRESIDENT

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e look back to 2019 and consider it as a year of going back to the basics of nation-building.

While our nation’s challenges are becoming more complicated by the day, we know that the key to stability is to remain consistent with our virtues.

We think of no ifs or buts—only an unrelenting commitment to inspire the Filipino to excel in what they do, engage them and the communities they belong to, and empower them to become agents of positive change and influence.

Such is the basic foundation we’ve always set: we are to serve unnervingly with heart and zeal.

Hence the theme of this year’s Annual Report: Puso at Sigasig. The heart, or puso, as our source of strength; and zeal, or sigasig, as our fuel that carries us ever forward.

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Puso at Sigasig is also our blueprint for how we envision progress in our nation should be. Unless our hearts are aflame with zeal for our collective growth as one Filipino family, we cannot achieve real and lasting progress as one community.

This Annual Report curates stories of extraordinary kinship and mentorship between our awardees and beneficiaries, and their respective spheres of influence.

We feature these men and women who willingly extend their time, effort, and resources in passing on their expertise for the ultimate benefit of their colleagues, mentees, and communities. While these interventions seem small up close, they altogether create and activate a chain reaction that leads to remarkable results, which in return improves the quality of life for everyone.

We approach nation-building as the domino effect of being kind, doing good, and loving all. We at the Metrobank Foundation strongly believe that behind every success story, there lies an influence that had initially inspired the origin of one’s journey. All it takes is for someone to be inspired, to then inspire someone else, until the rest of the nation feels empowered to work together towards the common good.

Puso at Sigasig is our guidepost as we continue this domino effect of shining a light on opportunities that expand access, provide recognition, and demonstrate the possibilities of a better future for all.

Armed with this vision, we feel nothing but excitement and confidence as we continue to make meaningful contributions to Philippine social development. With heart and zeal, we vow to keep our institutional programs and projects the vehicle through which we maximize value and make every intervention a truly beneficial one for the society at large.

May the narratives we share in this Annual Report inspire you to be in that same spirit of heart and same intensity of zeal for our beloved nation.

RET. CHIEF JUSTICE ARTEMIO V. PANGANIBAN Chairman Board of Advisers

ANICETO M. SOBREPEÑA President

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FOUR DECADES OF PUSO AT SIGASIG:

Metrobank Foundation’s 40th Anniversary Celebration Forty years ago, the late Metrobank Group founder Dr. George Ty Siao Kian envisioned an institution that would serve as a venue to share the benefits of Metrobank’s success with the community. On January 8, 1979, Dr. Ty realized this by founding the Metrobank Foundation, armed with the vision for the institution to become the country’s premier corporate philanthropic foundation contributing a significant impact on social development.

While the Bank has grown into an industry leader, Metrobank Foundation has likewise built its own reputation through its various corporate social responsibility programs aimed at improving the lives of the disadvantaged and promoting excellence among key sectors of society. “Excel.

Engage. Empower.” became the roadmap in all its givingback initiatives to communities and in catering to a number of stakeholders. Four decades since its establishment, Metrobank Foundation sustained its mission to create and propagate a culture of excellence among its beneficiary sectors, provide solutions to stakeholder needs, and serve at the forefront to reach out to communities.

Guided by the theme, “Puso at Sigasig,” the heart for community that started it all continues to be the rallying front, 40 years later. It is sustained by a greater zeal in order for the advocacies to move forward. The unique union of the heart and zeal forms the groundwork in the implementation of Metrobank Foundation programs in public service excellence, education, healthcare, visual arts and heritage, and good governance.

To celebrate the occasion, a special gathering to honor distinguished individuals and institutional partners, and to commemorate, at the same time, the memories of its late founder Dr. Ty, took place on February 21 at the Le Pavillon, Metropolitan Park, Pasay City.

performance of their respective professions, substantive contributions to their chosen disciplines, and sustained outstanding service to their respective institutions and communities.

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Another highlight was the presentation of the Partner in Empowerment, Advocacy, and Commitment to Excellence (PEACE) to institutional partners from the government, nongovernment and socio-civic organizations, media, academe, and business.

To commemorate Dr. Ty’s unparalleled leadership, generous spirit, compassionate heart, and outstanding contributions to nation-building, a special exhibit focusing on his being a pillar of the banking industry, corporate philanthropy, and as patron of the arts was put up. A sculpture entitled “Generosity” was presented which symbolizes Dr. Ty’s legacy in the industry and philanthropy.

In the years to come, the heart and zeal to build the nation and make a positive difference in the lives of many Filipinos remain strong and unchanging.

PEACE (PARTNERS IN EMPOWERMENT, ADVOCACY, AND COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE) HONOREES

40

ACES (AWARD FOR CONTINUING EXCELLENCE AND SERVICE) AWARDEES

A new batch of awardees were conferred the Award for Continuing Excellence and Service (ACES). Chosen from the Metrobank Foundation’s roster of awardees, they were recognized for their continuing excellence in the

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Puso sa Serbisyo, Sigasig sa Kasipagan (HEART FOR SERVICE, ZEAL FOR INDUSTRY)

All public servants have a heart for the nation—but only an exceptional few employ zeal in offering their talent and toil for the Filipino people. This is what makes the Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos set apart from the rest.

The program awards exemplary teachers, soldiers, and police officers who stand up, watch over, and care for the community.

With fearless hearts and formidable zeal, they serve the nation and the citizenry at all costs and despite odds. There is no tiredness weighty enough, nor terror dangerous enough, that could hold them back in giving their all for society. For our Outstanding Filipinos, the sole goal is to be loyal to their sworn duty.

675 METROBANK FOUNDATION OUTSTANDING FILIPINOS AWARDED SINCE 1985

2019 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Dr. Cristina B. Cristobal with son Ramon and grandson Maximus Cristobal Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos recognizes exemplary teachers, soldiers, and police officers for rendering service above and beyond their call of duties, guided by the theme “Beyond Excellence.” An Outstanding Filipino is recognized for his/her exemplary qualities that have inspired and influenced their peers in their respective professions. Their works have lasting positive impact on people and to the country.

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Dr. Cristina Cristobal has dedicated 40 years in teaching Philippine history in the basic education sector. She encourages young learners to use the lens of the past—the collective memory of a nation—and study the country’s story to become critical thinkers. Her experiential and evidence-based approach to history instruction seeks to inspire her students and peers to proactively help shape the present and future.

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METROBANK FOUNDATION OUTSTANDING FILIPINOS:

Excellence and Service Personified

Final Judging

Announcement of Winners Press Conference

Conferment Ceremonies

Public servants are pivotal to achieving the progress the society aspires for.

Their toil and contributions serve as pillars upon which the nation and economy stand. In 2019, a new batch of exemplary public servants—four (4) teachers, three (3) soldiers, and three (3) police officers—were named Metrobank Foundation

Final Board of Judges with DepEd Sec. Leonor Briones and officers of Metrobank and Metrobank Foundation

Malacañan Palace Courtesy Call

Outstanding Filipinos. The awardees embody the words “Beyond Excellence” and their actions have created ripples in their sectors and communities. They join the ranks of 665 outstanding public servants recognized since 1985.

House of Representatives Courtesy Call

Senate Courtesy Call

CONTINUING SEARCH FOR LAUDABLE EXEMPLARS The search for the 2019 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos commenced as top officials from program implementing partners gathered for a press conference on November 16, 2018 at the Bulwagan ng Karunungan, Department of Education Central Office, Pasig City.

A ceremonial signing of a pledge of commitment was held to signify unity among these institutions in fostering service excellence.

Search launch through a MOA signing with DepEd, AFP, and PNP

The Metrobank Foundation conducted 19 strategic visits from November 2018 to January 2019 to identified regions, offices, stations, and camps nationwide. To actively cascade information regarding the nominations, the coast-to-coast information campaigns were complemented by mobilization of internal stakeholders, enhanced digital activations, and synergies with concerned government and private institutions. Altogether, these efforts reached over 100,000 teachers, soldiers, and police officers across the Philippines.

The annual search sustained its rigorous selection process which has been fine-tuned over the years. In the preliminary judging, a Board of Assessors, comprised of esteemed individuals representing different sectors of society, shortlisted 18 finalists who proceeded to the next round, field validation.

The Metrobank Foundation commissioned the Philippine Social Science Council as third-party field validators. The field validations provided a holistic picture of the finalists’ professional and community contributions through a primary evidence-based verification method.

Semi-Final Judging and Field Validation

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In the final judging phase, each candidate faced the Final Board of Judges for the panel interview. The Board, a multi-sectoral jury composed of key personalities and authorities, was chosen based on their areas of competencies to maintain diversity of perspectives and ensure impartiality of results.

The 10 awardees were then revealed to the media and the general public via a press conference held on August 8 at Marquis Events Place, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

SALUTE TO MODERN-DAY HEROES Modern-day heroes exist in plain sight, among us, as public servants. They are the country’s educators, peacekeepers, and defenders. They are in classrooms championing quality instruction for all learners, in the frontlines defending the state’s sovereignty, and in patrol upholding round-the-clock peace and order.

The 10 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos demonstrate that the opportunities to serve abound. They often go about their work quietly, pursuing initiatives that yield positive impact in their institutions and communities.

Each awardee was awarded with a cash prize of PhP 1 million, a gold medallion, and “The Flame” trophy during the formal conferment ceremonies held on September 4 at the Metrobank Plaza auditorium in Makati City.

The weeklong recognition activities involved courtesy visits at the Senate of the Philippines and the House of Representatives. Both legislative houses adopted resolution commending the awardees for their contributions to society. The 10 Outstanding Filipinos received an audience with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during a courtesy call at the Malacañan Palace on September 5. Further, they were featured in print and online media, and participated in several guesting in broadcast media where they were able to share with the viewers their stories and advocacies.

Metrobank Foundation also credits the overall success of the cycle to the steadfast support of institutional partners who share in the aspiration of fostering a culture of genuine service and raising the bar of excellence in the three sectors. These partners include the Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), Rotary Club of New Manila East (RCNME), Rotary Club of Makati Metro (RCMM), and Philippine Savings Bank.

“Our 10 awardees are modern-day heroes. How else are we to call these individuals who persist, who remain firm in their duty, in the service of others? They go beyond what is expected of them out of earnest desire to make a positive impact among their sectors and communities. There is perhaps no truer form of service,” said Metrobank Foundation president Aniceto Sobrepeña.

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MOTHER AND DAUGHTER CALLED TO TEACH, DRIVEN TO SERVE “ Being chosen as one of 2019 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos means so much to my mother who belonged to the first batch of Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Teachers in 1985. I would like to dedicate this recognition to her as she has been my role model, mentor, and my inspiration. This recognition is also in honor of all the Filipino patients who I am indebted to for being my indispensable teachers in the art and science of medicine. For my institution, the University of the Philippines, the recognition is both an affirmation and encouragement of our team’s leadership in genomic medicine in the country and for the community, a promise of better health, and a better Philippines using genomics.”

Eva Maria C. Cutiongco-De La Paz, M. D. Philippines’ Prime Mover of Genomic Medicine and Education 2019 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino

TEACHERS AND THEIR SUPERPOWERS

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he story of Dr. Eva Maria C. Cutiongco-de la Paz and Dr. Elena C. Cutiongco is one for the books. In 1985, Dr. Elena Cutiongco was awarded as Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Teacher. Her daughter, Dr. Eva Maria CutiongcoDe La Paz, took the stage as a 2019 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Teacher, 34 years later.

Elena specialized in English instruction while Eva has dedicated her 22 years in the teaching profession to genomics, a branch of biology concerned with the study of genes.

Eva is currently a Professor 10 of the College of Medicine at the University of the Philippines (UP) Manila and Executive Director of the National Institutes of Health. She, along with her colleague Dr. Carmencita Padilla, established a Clinical Genetics Fellowship Program, the first and only one of its kind teaching and training program in the subspecialty of Genetics in the country.

“Genetics is not a well-known subspecialty in medicine. A dire need for more geneticists in the country has to be addressed. I have chosen to embrace this challenge. Being in the teaching profession has given me an excellent opportunity to teach this new emerging subspecialty of clinical genetics and genomic medicine in the Philippines,” shared Eva. Meanwhile, Elena, a former English instructor at UP Integrated School in Diliman, Quezon City, is currently an Honorary Board Member of the Reading Association of the Philippines where she formerly served as the president. She belongs to the pioneering batch of Metrobank Foundation Search for Outstanding Teachers-Elementary Level. In 2009, the Foundation conferred to her the Award for Continuing Excellence and Service (ACES) in recognition of her sustained commitment as a literacy advocate.

Both Eva and Elena are models of excellence in their fields, earning several accolades for their expertise and contributions. However, the recognitions are just a preview of their accomplishments as educators. The mother-daughter duo is involved in community extension work spearheaded by their institutions.

Eva wears many hats as she takes on the roles of a professor, physician, researcher, and community educator and advocate. She is part of an international team of experts with a mission to advance the understanding and ability to treat a brain condition called X-Linked Dystonia Parkinsonism or XDP. Further, she and her team of experts from the National Institutes of Health are on the frontline of the country’s battle against the novel coronavirus or COVID-19 pandemic.

On the other hand, Elena, at 85 years old, continues to write and edit textbooks, deliver seminars to teachers, and promote love for reading. She is also affiliated with ICS Publishing, Inc. “My passion is really to teach children to become better readers. I always take the opportunity to offer my services to help improve reading instruction,” said Elena.

Eva and Elena might specialize in different disciplines but they both draw strength from a common source—in an educator’s drive to serve and empower the nation’s learners, inside and outside the classroom. When asked about what keeps them going, the pair shared the sentiment that is inspired by the ethos, “for the people.”

“For me, what makes me wake up every morning, is really the excitement of introducing this new specialty of medicine called genetics. Many people don’t know about it and how it’s going to be helpful in providing a more precise and personalized way to give healthcare to the patients,” shared Eva.

An educator’s duty, above all, is the delivery of empowering and character-building instruction for all learners. This recognition of the teachers’ noble role in shaping a progressive nation remains the inspiration of Metrobank Foundation, together with institutional partners, in sustaining the movement to annually celebrate National Teachers’ Month (NTM).

These stamps were formally launched in Cagayan De Oro City on September 9 and were made available in all PHLPOST offices nationwide. AXA Philippines continued its 2018 initiative with the production and distribution of “Thank you, Teacher” cards containing personal accident insurance worth PhP 50,000.

NTM also became an opportunity to raise consciousness and promote discourse on the current status of education and teaching profession in the country. The National Assembly of Education Leaders was held to discuss how excellence can be embedded in the Department of Education’s (DepEd) culture. The Philippine Business for Education (PBED) hosted the 2nd Teacher Quality Forum in Cebu City, convening experts to kick-start the dialogue towards improving teacher welfare and ensuring teacher quality through public-private sector collaboration. CitySavings Bank held a series of workshops on financial literacy and disaster management for teachers in Regions II, IV-B, V, and VI.

On its 11th year, NTM carried the theme “I teach. That’s my superpower.” It continued the tradition of recognizing the indispensable role of Filipino teachers, the modern-day superheroes who constantly innovate to suit the demands of the times and better teach all the learners they encounter.

Over the past decade, the campaign has become a multi-sectoral movement and has seen growth in numbers. At its helm is the NTM Coordinating Council (NTMCC) composed of organizations representing the government, academe, private sector, and nongovernment institutions united by a common goal.

A highlight of the annual celebrations are the Teachers’ Treats offered from September 5 to October 5. Throughout the month, teachers were able to enjoy exclusive treats offered by NTM retail partners and their partner establishments. National brands like Jollibee and McDonalds, as well as major malls like SM and Power Plant Mall developed their teacher-related promotions. Meanwhile, regional businesses across the country also offered treats and discounts to teachers in their respective localities.

Since its inception, NTM marked several milestones: in 2011, Presidential Proclamation No. 242 was signed, formally declaring “the period from September 5 to October 5 of every year as National Teachers’ Month.” With its issuance, the then known as Teachers’ Month campaign formally became National Teachers’ Month. Five years later, Republic Act No. 10743 was signed, formally designating “October 5 of every year as National Teachers’ Day.” In 2019, the NTMCC sustained the adoption of the 4 As of Gratitude—Appreciation, Approval, Admiration, Attention—as the campaign framework. The NTM celebrations included a suite of activities, events, and treats targeted to reach teachers nationwide.

Further, the Senate of the Philippines and the House of Representatives adopted resolutions honoring the country’s teachers in line with the NTM celebration.

DepEd Region X took the lead in the National Teachers’ Day, the culminating celebration of NTM, held on October 5 at Atrium, Limketkai Center, Cagayan de Oro City. Adopting the theme “Gurong Pilipino: Handa sa Makabagong Pagbabago,” the event gathered around 5,000 teachers from Mindanao, fittingly capping off the month-long tribute in a day of festivities.

Partner museums in key cities offered free entrance and guided tours exclusive for teachers. Microsoft Philippines and Museo Pambata offered special classes and workshops. Meanwhile, the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPOST) designed and produced special Commemorative Stamps featuring the iconic NTM logo.

GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION OF METROBANK FOUNDATION OUTSTANDING FILIPINO TEACHERS

12 REGION II

REGION I 10

PARTICIPATING COMPANIES AND ORGANIZATIONS IN CELEBRATION OF THE 2019 NATIONAL TEACHERS’ MONTH

14 CAR 130 NCR

REGION III 15

16

REGION IV-A

4

REGION IV-B

REGION VI 55 REGION VII 11

21 REGION V 10 REGION VIII

13 NIR 28 REGION X 9 REGION XIII

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METROBANK FOUNDATION, INC.

368

METROBANK FOUNDATION OUTSTANDING FILIPINO TEACHERS RECOGNIZED SINCE 1985

REGION IX 10 BARMM

145

2

13 REGION XII 8 REGION XI

689,000

TEACHERS HONORED NATIONWIDE

5,000

TEACHERS WERE HONORED DURING THE 2019 NATIONAL TEACHERS’ DAY CELEBRATION IN CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

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A SOLDIER’S QUEST TOWARDS COMMUNITY & INSTITUTIONAL TRANSFORMATION “ I believe this is my purpose: to serve others and fight for those who cannot defend themselves. Every time I go out to do my job, I always think that I am doing this so that my family and the Filipino people would peacefully sleep while I and the entire Armed Forces of the Philippines are standing on the line fighting for their safety. Moreover, I want to ensure that the generations to come, the children of my children, would enjoy the same freedom I have enjoyed. I always consider it as a sense of fulfilment seeing the Philippine Flag freely hoisted which signifies our independence and freedom.”

LT. COL. JOHN PAUL D. BALDOMAR PA AFP’s Community and Organizational Transformation Warrior 2019 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino

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he life that’s in store for the uniformed personnel is not for the faint-hearted because of the dangers and realities they are exposed to. In Lt. Col. John Paul D. Baldomar’s case, these realities called for compassion and action in response.

Lt. Col. Baldomar’s 22 years of service in the Philippine Army is marked by his heart for the people. This is reflected in the initiative he spearheaded in 2001 when he was assigned with Bravo Company, 37th Infantry Battalion, 6th Infantry Division, Philippine Army and subsequently became its Company Commander. His troop supported the story of recovery of 95 internally displaced Tiruray families at Sitio Kyamko (Hill 224), Barangay Maitumaig, Datu Unsay, Maguindanao.

This is the scene that spurred Lt. Col. Baldomar into action: a community living in temporary shelters, facing imminent threat, and barely meeting their basic social needs. The Tiruray families originally resided in Peris Hill and were driven out of their ancestral land by armed lawless groups’ doings.

Lt. Col. Baldomar rallied his troop to initiate projects that will help the community establish a new home and become self-sufficient.

This was possible through their relationship that was founded on mutual trust, in collaboration with the local government and nongovernment organizations. This resulted in the implementation of community-based programs, and development of infrastructures such as school buildings, farm-to-market roads, a multipurpose hall, and a place of worship.

GURO, PULIS, AT SUNDALO NA MAY GALING, PUSO AT SIGASIG (GPS2):

METROBANK FOUNDATION OUTSTANDING FILIPINOS GIVE BACK As one of the highlights of Metrobank Foundation’s 40th anniversary celebration in 2019, Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos, through their respective alumni organizations—NOTED (Network of Outstanding Teachers and Educators), TOPSOLDIERS (The Organization of Philippine Soldiers with Outstanding Leadership, Dedication, Integrity, Excellence, and Responsibility to Society), and PROTECT (Police Officers Responsible for Organizing, Transforming, and Empowering Communities)—launched a pay-it-forward project called “Guro, Pulis, at Sundalo na may Galing, Puso, at Sigasig (GPS2).”

As the first ever collaborative project of these three sectors, GPS2 aims to extend assistance to the City of Marawi.

To aid schoolchildren and teachers from the city, on July 9, a series of outreach activities were conducted at Sagonsongan Temporary Learning Schools, Sarimanok Tent City and Pag-asa Primary School.

Led by Metrobank Foundation president Aniceto Sobrepeña, the delegation included a number of Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Teachers, Soldiers, and Police Officers who took their time out to turn over learners’ and teachers’ kits, books, and educational theater facilities. The activity was made possible through the support of the Department of Education, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Philippine National Police.

1,603

LEARNER’S KITS DONATED TO STUDENTS

201

TEACHER’S KITS DONATED TO TEACHING PERSONNEL MORE THAN

PhP 1M

WORTH OF DONATIONS EXTENDED TO STUDENTS AND TEACHERS IN FOUR TEMPORARY LEARNING SCHOOLS IN MARAWI CITY

Through the Bravo Company’s interventions, the community grew from 95 displaced families in 2001 to more or less 300 empowered and self-sufficient families to date.

This experience fueled Lt. Col. Baldomar’s drive to better serve his institution. In 2014, he became Chief of the Strategic Communications Branch under the AFP’s Office for Strategic Studies and Strategy Management. At the helm, he steered his team towards the development and implementation of the AFP Transformation Roadmap strategic communication plan called “Horizon 1.” This espouses the importance of aligning the AFP’s actions to its vision—“A World-Class Armed Forces, Source of National Pride”—in breathing life to a culture of genuine transformation and good governance.

160

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METROBANK FOUNDATION, INC.

METROBANK FOUNDATION OUTSTANDING FILIPINO SOLDIERS RECOGNIZED SINCE 1999

2019 ANNUAL REPORT

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DEFENDER AND ALLY OF THE VULNERABLE

“ Life may be difficult for many. I serve as a witness to different stories of struggle.

But I am optimistic that there’s a rainbow in the aftermath of any storm. Crimes and violations are hard to end, but a united community as we are can ease sufferings. The battle is never-ending and the goal to provide a safer place for all is a continuous voyage.”

P/CMSGT. MARSHA T. AGUSTIN, RSW Camp Crame’s Anti-Human Trafficking Crusader 2019 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino

A FITTING TRIBUTE TO UNIFORMED GENERALS

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/CMSgt. Marsha T. Agustin’s daily toil consists of fighting modern-day slavery and promoting a safer place for the vulnerable—children, women, and the disenfranchised. A licensed social worker, her decision to join the police force solidified the clarity of her mission: take on a job that saves lives.

The union of the social and police investigative work forms part of P/CMSgt. Agustin’s legacy in her maiden institution, the Philippine National Police’s Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC) in Camp Crame. With her lead, WCPC adopted an interviewing technique called the “Social Worker-Police Investigative Technique in Handling Cases Involving Women and Children Victims.” This specialized age and gender-sensitive method applies social work principles to investigate human trafficking cases.

To recognize Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Soldiers and Police Officers who rose to the rank of general, a testimonial dinner was held on December 2 at the Penthouse of GT Tower International in Makati City. Metrobank and Metrobank Foundation chairman Arthur Ty, together with other senior officers, welcomed these distinguished AFP and PNP senior officers who exemplify continuing excellence and sustained outstanding service to their respective institutions.

They are AFP Brigadier Generals Ariel Caculitan, Maxima Ignacio and Lope Dagoy; PNP Police General Benigno Durana, Jr. ; and PNP Police Brigadier Generals Rhodel Sermonia, Alex Sintin, Florencio Ortilla, Eliseo Cruz, Pascual Muñoz, Jr., Mario Rariza Jr., and Bernard Banac.

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METROBANK FOUNDATION OUTSTANDING FILIPINO SOLDIERS PROMOTED TO THE RANK OF GENERAL

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METROBANK FOUNDATION OUTSTANDING FILIPINO POLICE OFFICERS PROMOTED TO THE RANK OF GENERAL

In response to a crime that operates on a perpetrator’s manipulation, P/CMSgt. Agustin’s approach banks on justly earning the victim’s trust. This reinforces the belief that investigative work requires a heart, as opposed to the detached manner of taking on sensitive cases.

P/CMSgt. Agustin also believes that rendering assistance as a police officer does not stop at taking statements and acquiring information. Empathetic to the victims’ plight, she advocates for improved psychosocial interventions and holistic delivery of services to help them recover from their traumatic experience.

Further, she recognizes that her expertise can benefit peers outside WCPC. She co-authored the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) Manual used by the PNP in handling Trafficking in Persons (TIP) cases. This initiative aligns with the new provisions of the Republic Act No. 10364 or “Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act.” She also serves as the resource person in cascading the contents of the manual among her peers.

P/CMSgt. Agustin is always ready to act when neighbors call for help. She was one of the first police responders in Tacloban City when super typhoon Yolanda left many uprooted families in its wake. As part of the PNP Disaster Management, Preparedness, and Response Task Group, she saw to it that the welfare of vulnerable women and children affected by the calamity were attended to. She was lauded as one of the Exemplary Government Accredited Social Workers in 2015 for the said efforts.

Sixteen (16) years since P/CMSgt. Agustin has sworn to this duty, she remains resolute in helping restore normalcy and bring justice to those who come to WCPC’s doorsteps looking for refuge.

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METROBANK FOUNDATION OUTSTANDING FILIPINO POLICE OFFICERS RECOGNIZED SINCE 2003

2019 ANNUAL REPORT

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Puso sa Pakikipagpaligsahan, Sigasig sa Pagka-dalubhasa (HEART TO COMPETE, ZEAL FOR PROFICIENCY)

The longest running math competition in the country proves only one thing: interest and passion for math remain alive, if not even more relevant in these strange and frantic times. The disciplined rigor of mathematics is, essentially, a language of zeal—it takes the total effort of one’s heart and mind, working together in tandem.

More than a competition that builds mathematical achievement and quantitative thought, the Metrobank-MTAP-DepEd Math Challenge (MMC) has become a venue to learn the values of teamwork and persistence in order to achieve a higher level goal. As with life, the MMC teaches the youth that it is not so much the answers, but how you journey towards the solutions that count.

833

METROBANK MATH CHALLENGE NATIONAL WINNERS AWARDED SINCE 1998

2018 Metrobank-MTAP-DepEd Math Challenge (MMC) winner Sean Neyers Gungon with father John Gungon In 2018, Sean Neyers Gungon joined the roster of Metrobank-MTAP-DepEd Math Challenge (MMC) winners when he clinched the first place for the Grade 6 Individual Competition. What began as a hobby and bonding activity with his older brother, stemming from their mutual interest in the subject, soon became a passion that further honed his mathematical proficiency. At 12 years old, he draws inspiration from his parents who give full support to this young mathlete’s aspirations.

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METROBANK FOUNDATION, INC.

Metrobank-MTAP-DepEd Math Challenge (MMC) raises the mathematical competitiveness of elementary and high school students nationwide through the annual mathematics competition in partnership with the Mathematics Teachers Association of the Philippines (MTAP) and the Department of Education (DepEd).

2019 ANNUAL REPORT

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A MATH CHAMP’S DREAM FOR HIS STRIFE-TORN HOME “ We dedicate our triumph to the Maranaos and we hope in our own little way, this would help them momentarily forget the grief and hopelessness in their hearts.”

MOHAMMAD NUR CASIB First Placer 2019 Metrobank-MTAP-DepEd Math Challenge Grade 6 Individual Competition

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n May 20, a 12-year-old mathlete’s triumph made history in the nationwide numbers tilt, Metrobank-MTAP-DepEd Math Challenge (MMC). Unassuming Mohammad Nur Casib, fondly called by his family and peers as Iman, emerged as the grand winner in MMC’s Grade 6 Individual Competition category—the first ever to do so from Marawi City.

Gaining the top spot for the Grade 6 Team Competition during the 2015 Metrobank-MTAP DepEd Math Challenge (MMC), Bryce Ainsley A. Sanchez of Grace Christian College in Quezon City proved that history can repeat itself as he earned again a gold medal for the Grade 10 Individual Competition for the 2019 MMC. The National Finals was held on March 30 at the Auditorium of Metrobank Plaza in Makati City.

Growing up, Iman showed an early knack for numbers which his parents observed from the get-go. “My parents used to tell me that when I was a toddler, I already knew basic counting from one to ten, and I was fascinated with any toys with numbers,” shared Iman.

To him, MMC has served as his training ground since Grade 3. “MMC has never failed to deliver interesting mathematical problems that require ingenuity and creativity to solve. It continues to challenge mathletes across the country to become better solvers and further hone their skills and talent for the subject,” he said. He added that participating in the competition did not only help him develop academic excellence but gain a number of friends, many of whom he considers as his closest, and enabled him to further develop his interpersonal relations.

He also credits one figure in his life for further introducing this world to him. “Most of the time I was with my ‘ate,’ and she’d always know how to pacify me with a calculator. She would ask me to press simple numbers, add them, and guess the answer, and I would be amazed every time the answers popped out of the screen. I called her ate Dindin and she was the one who unlocked my interest and reception to numbers and basic arithmetic,” he recalled.

Iman might find joy in these mental exercises and crunching numbers might come to him fairly easily, but his journey to championship was the contrary.

Iman’s victory is also a story about hope and resilience. His hometown’s recent history has been cloaked by discord and hostility. The Marawi siege displaced families and spread fear among the land.

Amidst all this was a kid who found a welcome respite through numbers, and persevered to put his region on the map of MMC. “To bring the banner of the Bangsamoro region to the competition is my ultimate goal,” he expressed.

Pursuing this track entailed ordeals but this did not undermine his resolve.

Then the day of the championship arrived. “I told my kid from the outset, ‘if you are destined to reach this, you will.’ He’s been through a lot but he was able to achieve his dream. It was hard. I’m not talking only about our family, but the entire plight of our people,” revealed Norodin Casib, Iman’s dad.

Clinching the grand winner title for MMC, Iman dedicated his feat to his hometown. He aims to communicate to his fellow aspirants that opportunities arise when you pursue what you love, even when odds are seemingly stacked against you.

Iman may have carved a name for himself in the competition but his dream doesn’t end here. He hopes to see a country that further invests in the potential of mathematics and supports mathletes like him, especially those with limited capacity to do so. The young math genius then shared his aspiration for MMC, “I hope in the future, this Math Challenge will reach all far-flung places in our country. Who knows, a brilliant kid is just out there waiting for an opportunity.”

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METROBANK FOUNDATION, INC.

AN MMC RETURNING CHAMP

“I hope that MMC will have more fruitful years and discover even more talents who could give back to our society and serve as role models to the youth,” he concludes.

Bryce Ainsley A. Sanchez First Placer, 2015 MMC Grade 6 Team Competition First Placer, 2019 MMC Grade 10 Individual Competition

DEPED CHIEF GRACES MMC NATIONAL LEG The country’s young math geniuses competed during the national finals of the 2019 MetrobankMTAP-DepEd Math Challenge (MMC) National Finals on March 30 at the Metrobank Plaza Auditorium in Makati City.

Out of the 403,707 students who competed in the nationwide elimination rounds, a total of 22 students representing 10 regions have qualified and made the cut for the opportunity to advance in the final leg of the math competition.

The national finals showcased the mathematical proficiency of Grade 6 and Grade 10 students who competed in individual and team categories. The challenge consisted of solving complex mathematical problems mentally within 15 seconds and additional rounds of 30-second and oneminute questions using pen and paper.

Winners were awarded by the guest of honor, Education secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones, who also delivered a message to inspire the young audience.

Grade 6 and Grade 10 national winners received trophies, medals and cash prizes with a total amount of more than PhP 500,000. All participants received giveaways sponsored by Casio Philippines and Manila Tytana Colleges.

MMC is the most widely participated math competition in the country among elementary and high school students. Over the years, MMC has produced national winners who get to compete and eventually win in international competitions.

27,089 SCHOOLS REPRESENTING 218 DEPED DIVISIONS JOINED THE NATIONWIDE MMC ELIMINATION ROUNDS

403,707 STUDENTS JOINED THE NATIONWIDE MMC ELIMINATION ROUNDS

2019 ANNUAL REPORT

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Puso sa Edukasyon, Sigasig sa Karangalan (HEART FOR EDUCATION, ZEAL FOR INTEGRITY)

A generation of mentees will spawn a generation of mentors-to-be.

Such is the vision of the Metrobank Scholarship Program (MSP), the umbrella brand of Metrobank Foundation’s various scholarships for underprivileged yet deserving students across the country.

During their years of study, MSP scholars do not just hone their academic abilities, but are taught to serve their Creator, clan, community, and country. This is at the heart of what it means to be a Metrobank scholar: a life-long mission to grow beyond the self, discover ways to participate in the transformation of the world, and pay it forward by continuing the legacy to produce their kind.

1,053

SCHOLARS GRADUATED FROM COLLEGE SINCE 1995

Former Metrobank Foundation ACCESS scholar Jasper Munji with son Jaden Munji Former Metrobank Foundation ACCESS scholar Jasper Munji believes that there is no cutting corners when it comes to pursuing one’s dreams. He credits the values he imbibed as a scholar to how he mapped his journey thus far. Now a father of three and a leader in his organization, he seeks to set an example to his kids that excellence is a product of vision and perseverance, and to his colleagues that discipline is the foundation of competence worthy of emulation.

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METROBANK FOUNDATION, INC.

Metrobank Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to underprivileged but academically-deserving students, while instilling among scholars the value of ‘paying-it-forward’ the gift of education they have received.

2019 ANNUAL REPORT

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DESIGNING THE FUTURE 21ST GRADUATES’ FORUM: “Since we’re part of the labor force, it is our duty to bring about common good. This is why I want to be an architect and urban planner. I want to do my part in making our cities livable for everyone.”

JULIAN ANDREI A. IMPERIAL Magna Cum Laude BS Architecture, UP Diliman Metrobank Foundation-Pacific Paint (Boysen) Scholarship Program

J

ulian Andrei Imperial’s penchant for mathematics and sketching might have sparked his initial interest in architecture, his dream course, but his decision to go after it was actually born out of a son’s wish for his parents.

“Before entering college, I have constantly asked myself about the path that I should or wanted to tread. I decided to pursue architecture because I wanted to draw my parents’ dream house. This reason may sound simple but this is what drives me to persevere,” shared Julian.

This almost became a pipedream. Julian lives in Antipolo City with his parents and two siblings. Prior to his entering college, his family’s sole source of income was the humble sari-sari store run by his mother. Taking a financially demanding course would mean going beyond his family’s means, a prospect Julian knew would be difficult for his parents. Despite the risk, his parents supported the dream of this aspiring architect.

Julian got accepted at the University of the Philippines Diliman. That was when an opportunity reached him, in the form of the Metrobank FoundationPacific Paint (Boysen) Scholarship Program. A scholar since high school, he considered this as a sign that he was meant to pursue this path, after all.

“Thankfully I got accepted in UP. Of course it was considerably more affordable than similar institutions. But I was determined to take off the burden from my parents. For me it was at least one child’s educational expenses less for them to think about. With the Lord’s blessing, I got the MBFI-Boysen scholarship. In a very expensive course like architecture, the grant was truly helpful in getting me and my family by,” shared Julian.

PREPARING FUTURE WORKFORCE The Metrobank Foundation, together with GT Foundation, Inc. (GTFI), joined by Pacific Paint (Boysen) Philippines, recognized the 2019 batch of scholar graduates during the 21st Graduates’ Forum, held on June 28 at the Penthouse of Manila Doctors Hospital in Ermita, Manila. With the theme “#PayIt4Ward: Service to 4Cs,” the event aims to highlight what makes a Metrobank scholar different—his or her commitment to serve the Creator, Clan, Community, and Country. A total of 38 scholars finished their undergraduate degrees from four (4) universities and colleges across the country. They are the recipients of the following scholarship programs: GTFI-Manila Tytana Colleges Youth for Excellence and Service (YES); MBFI-Manila Tytana Colleges Youth for Excellence and Service (YES); and MBFI-Pacific Paint (Boysen). Out of the 38 scholars, 17 finished with Latin honors—six (6) magna cum laude and 11 cum laude. They were conferred with Metrobank medals and certificates of academic excellence. The annual event is intended to highlight among the scholars the value of giving back as they jumpstart their professional careers. The 4Cs— Creator, Clan, Community, and Country—outlines how scholars can pay forward the blessings they have received.

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SCHOLARS FINISHED COLLEGE IN 2019

121

SCHOLARS CURRENTLY ENROLLED

390

SCHOLARS WHO FINISHED COLLEGE WITH LATIN HONORS (5 SUMMA CUM LAUDE, 75 MAGNA CUM LAUDE, 310 CUM LAUDE) SINCE 1995

In times of difficulties, what keeps Julian anchored is seeing every struggle and opportunity as part of his learning curve. “The quote that guides me in my everyday life is “matuto sa lahat ng pagkakataon” (learn from every moment). This world is wonderful, it has so much life and color. But it is also scary, overwhelming, and it can be dark. Even though our experiences vary, may it be positive or negative, there is surely something to be learned from those experiences,” he revealed.

Now a Bachelor of Science in Architecture graduate, magna cum laude, Julian is set to be the first architect in his family and to illustrate his parents’ dream house. For him, though, the road ahead is still long and opportunities to use his craft for others abound.

Julian sees himself employed as a junior architect or architecture trainee who will take the licensure examination in two years’ time. Moreover, another aspiration took hold for this budding architect: he wants to be an urban planner who will design livable cities for Filipinos. “We are the new members of the labor force. We must take to heart that our hard work is for the nation’s progress,” he remarked.

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Puso sa Sining, Sigasig sa Kagalingan (HEART FOR THE ARTS, ZEAL FOR INGENUITY)

Great art is this: when reality is neither good nor clear enough, it makes sense and connects the dots for everyone. Great art is easy and delicate on the eyes, and yet speaks zealously to the heart.

Such works of art are celebrated annually through the Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE).

Since its founding, MADE has kindled a fire among painters and sculptors to imagine new worlds, discover what they are capable of, and unleash their greatest masterpieces to the world. MADE espouses visual arts as the open door to wonder and creative inquiry, and in so doing, empowers Filipino artists across the land to charge through that door and make the most of it.

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ARTISTS AND DESIGNERS RECOGNIZED SINCE 1984

1993 Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE) awardee Alfredo Esquillo, Jr. with daughter Kaia Bien Esquillo Prolific visual artist Alfredo Esquillo, Jr.’s creative practice is heavily inspired by his Filipino heritage. Social realism lends his works the style in which he illustrates the histories and experiences of his people and society. He believes that art is for all. This consciousness drives him to contribute to the continuity of art in the country not only through his paintings but through setting up venues that help local artists gain exposure.

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METROBANK FOUNDATION, INC.

Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE) hails Filipino artistry and creativity through the annual competitions in painting and sculpture.

2019 ANNUAL REPORT

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THE VAST WORLD OF A YOUNG ARTIST “One of my future plans is to launch a mural project in one elementary school in Hacienda Luisita. My goal is to replace political vandalism with images of inspiration for the students.”

JAYME EMILLE C. LUCAS Grand Awardee Oil/ Acrylic on Canvas Category 2019 Metrobank Art & Design Excellence

UNLEASH THE FILIPINO CREATIVE

V

arious ideas, themes, and experiences influence the work that a visual artist creates. For young freelance artist Jayme Emille Lucas, her conscious effort to observe her environment allows her to paint images that depict struggles faced by farmers in her homeland—agrarian reform and poverty.

A graduate of Bachelor of Arts major in Advertising from Tarlac State University, this 22-year old Kapampangan artist received the 2019 MADE Grand Award for her work entitled “Evanescing Lives from the Homeland,” which captures a powerful snapshot of farmers, the tillers of land that still constitute the majority of workforce in the countryside.

Residing near Hacienda Luisita in Tarlac, she got inspired by what she sees each day as typical scenarios, which among many other places she has been to, became the depiction of her winning art piece. Rendered in oil on canvas, her work shows three (3) farmers from different generations simply standing on the land that they farm. Arrayed on a clearing and against the tall stalks of a sugarcane plantation, these central figures embody a palpable posture of defiance, ready to tell their plight. Of different ages, they belong to three different generations, which suggests how farming is passed on unbroken along familial lines and how the cycle of poverty becomes entrenched.

Other than a paintbrush, Jayme used another medium to bring more depth in her work. By scratching the surface with a palette knife, she then filled in the gaps with the color of fire, showing that the disappeared, the deliberately erased are not forgotten. “The stylized rendering of painting is like a photo taken from the past, being forgotten inside an old photo album, misplaced and lost in its own house,” she says.

Jayme may be an amateur in the field, but with experiences and wisdom to understand issues, combined with her talent, she can create meaningful masterpieces that bring awareness to society and give hope to many.

Influenced by social realists and figurative abstract artists, Jayme hopes to translate her hopes and aspirations into tangible works of art.

“I hope to paint and contribute my art to society someday. One of my plans is to paint a mural in a school in Hacienda Luisita, to replace political vandalism with images of inspiration for the students,” she says.

METROBANK ART & DESIGN EXCELLENCE CELEBRATES 35TH YEAR Tracing its humble beginnings in the year 1984, the annual Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE) was conceived by late Metrobank Group founder and chairman Dr. George Ty Siao Kian at a time when the nation was at the throes of economic crisis and socio-political unrest. The Filipino people were in search for meaning and hope beyond the uncertainties at that time. While many took their struggles to the streets, Dr. Ty discovered much promise and potential in Philippine visual arts as an alternate creative bullhorn for people to be heard.

Thirty five (35) years since, MADE has continued to be a platform for the discovery of the most passionate and creative visionaries in the country. To date, the Metrobank Foundation has recognized more than 400 creative visionaries serving as drivers behind the transformational and uplifting power of visual arts in nationbuilding—majority of them are now carving significant names in the local and even international art scenes.

But more than a competition that breeds artistic talent, MADE has evolved to become a development program that facilitates a generation of fresh ideas for social development. It has set the benchmark among the country’s art competitions as a pioneering corporate social responsibility (CSR) program for the arts.

Chosen as milestone year theme is “Unleash,” a reflection of Metrobank Foundation’s continuing advocacy to seek out and exalt Filipino visionaries—young individuals who bring vibrancy to the evolving art scene whether they are working with a blank canvas or a space waiting to be transformed.

In 2019, Metrobank Foundation lined up a series of events and activities: Art MADE Public; Hiraya: Cultural Heritage Education Program (CHEP); 2019 MADE Awarding Ceremony and Exhibit Opening; and Vernissage.

ART MADE PUBLIC: MAKING ART EXPERIENTIAL FOR THE GREATER PUBLIC What better way to educate the masses on Philippine art and cultural heritage than to engage them in various art endeavors and create art venues accessible for them. This is what Art MADE Public is all about—breaking the norm that art is only for the privileged few and making art experiential for the many.

To kick off MADE’s 35th year, winning artworks of past MADE awardees who are now national and up-and-coming icons in the Philippine art and design community were exhibited. Through “Art MADE Public: Icons and Masterpieces,” a photo exhibit displayed portraits of some of these MADE alumni, alongside their actual award-winning masterpieces which visitors got to witness first-hand.

Another highlight of the exhibit was “MADE through the Years,” presenting a timeline of MADE in the last 35 years—from its day of conception in 1984, including milestone events and evolutions which contributed to the credibility and prestige of one of the country’s longest running art competitions.

Apart from the exhibit, Art MADE Public also provided lectures and workshops led by past MADE awardees, architects and interior designers, and art and cultural heritage practitioners. These activities provided learning experience for the audience and offered a platform to discuss issues and trends in the local art scene, and to learn about best practices from the masters themselves.

Held every year in celebration of the National Arts Month, Art MADE Public travelled to various commercial spaces and art and cultural institutions nationwide. It was held in partnership with SM Supermalls, National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and United Architects of the Philippines.

1,050

ATTENDEES OF 2019 ART MADE PUBLIC LECTURES

550,000

FOOT TRAFFIC OF VISITORS OF 2019 ART MADE PUBLIC EXHIBITS

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ART MADE PUBLIC GOES TO ART HUB ILOILO The Metrobank Foundation, in partnership with Megaworld Foundation, opened the “Art MADE Public: Icons MADE” exhibit which ran from March 14 to April 14 at the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA) in Iloilo City.

Serving as a triumphant homecoming, the Icons MADE exhibit showcased the winning works of six (6) Ilonggo awardees: Noel Elicana, Alex Ordoyo, Roland Llarena, Paul John Cabanalan, Leoniel Cerbas, and Harry Mark Gonzales.

The following day was brimmed with warm reception from the art and design community of Iloilo as they attended the Art MADE Public lecture series. Known for its flourishing art and cultural scenes, the province takes pride in its citizens collaborating to initiate programs that foster local artistry and ingenuity.

A NEW BATCH OF CREATIVES UNLEASHED A night to celebrate the best of the best in the Philippine art, art patrons, enthusiasts, advocates, and visual artists have gathered to welcome and honor new discoveries in the art sphere— promising amateur talents who now join the roster of more than 400 artists recognized by the Metrobank Foundation.

The 2019 MADE awardees were recognized last September 19 at the Le Pavillon, Metropolitan Park in Pasay City. Two Grand Awardees received PhP 500,000.00 worth of financial assistance and artistic development fund. Three finalists, on the other hand, received the Special Citation for their remarkable works.

It is noteworthy that subjects of last year’s winning artworks center on society’s woes nowadays—agrarian reform, mental health, war, and abusive use of power.

Among the roster is 23-year old Christian Jame Maglente, Grand Awardee for the Watermedia on Paper category, for his art piece “Existence of Blue.” “The ‘blue’ in the title points at the literal color of the painting’s background, at the same time alluding to the ‘blues,’ an informal term for extreme sadness or depression,” says art critic and journalist Carlomar Daoana.

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BENEFICIARIES ATTENDED PROJECT HeART ACTIVITIES

that constitutes a day seem never enough, what with the many responsibilities a common folk has to juggle simultaneously in order to keep body and soul together in an urban place.”

Twenty three-year old Dela Paz’s goal is to showcase Filipino culture and art to future generations through his works.

Another special highlight of the evening is the unveiling of exhibit, with the five (5) winning artworks as centerpiece, alongside them are art pieces which made it to the semi-final and final rounds of the 2019 MADE.

As one of the most awaited art events in the country, the awarding ceremony and exhibit opening was graced by Department of Tourism secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koji Haneda as guests of honors.

It was also attended by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik and other distinguished members of the art and design community, business and government leaders, diplomats, academicians, media, notable society personalities, and cultural advocates.

MADE STAGES ITS FIRST VERNISSAGE For the first time in MADE’s history, the Metrobank Foundation hosted the 2019 Vernissage for the Metrobank Art Club, a group of art collectors and enthusiasts who have long supported MADE. Through a one-day exhibit, members of the art club had the chance to preview the works of 2019 MADE semi-finalists.

As the Metrobank Foundation’s way of showing its gratitude to one of the foremost groups who have contributed to the promotion of MADE, and have shared in its goal of championing the role of arts in nation-building, a talk on how art patrons can preserve the art pieces they collect was also held. The 2019 Vernissage was attended by 32 Metrobank Art Club members.

HIRAYA TOP BILLS CULTURAL HERITAGE EDUCATION PROGRAM (CHEP) Arts and culture used to be deemed secondary to other practical pursuits. The landscape continues to change as the broader public gains deeper understanding of the value of art in society—one that goes beyond decorative purposes.

Back in 2017, Metrobank Foundation launched an advocacy called Cultural Heritage Education Program (CHEP) aimed at creating awareness on built heritage in the form of educational initiatives such as lectures, talks, seminars, conferences and exhibition. It endeavours to provide a venue to gather and recognize the roles of the government, non-government, private, academe, cultural and other institutions & sectors in the promotion and preservation of the Philippine Built Heritage.

In 2019, the Hiraya lecture held on May 15 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines top billed this initiative. It featured the talks of International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) president Ma. Cristina Paterno, and art critic Cid Reyes, among others.

This continued on September 20 at the Le Pavillon in Pasay City entitled: “MADE Symposium: A Series of Lectures on Rediscovering Philippine Arts and Cultural Heritage,” where practitioners and experts in the field shared their personal and professional accounts on art and cultural heritage: ICOMOS president Ma. Cristina Paterno on the use of photogrammetry and 3D Imaging in documenting heritage; Philippine Art Events co-founder and Arts Management Department chairperson at De La Salle College of St. Benilde School of Design & Arts Geraldine Araneta on examining local art fairs and international biennales; shedding light on legal issues in art and heritage, with two keynote speakers—Lopez Museum curatorial consultant and Fundacion Sanso director Ricky Francisco and forest and cultural heritage advocate Atty. Lucille Karen MalilongIsberto—focusing the discourse on forgery and authentication as well as legal issues in heritage restoration.

“Through its painfully lyrical examination of the mind in crisis, the work renders in concrete terms the struggle that attends a breakdown and makes a compelling case for intervention,” Daoana adds.

A graduate of Fine Arts major in Painting from Eulogio Amang Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology, Maglente offers his award to his parents, his backbone and inspiration in pursuing his passion and career in the arts.

Meanwhile, Special Citation recipient Christian Cedrick Dela Paz, locates a common Pinoy inside a jeepney in his work “25/7.”

In his words, Daoana describes the art piece as “the 24 hours

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Puso sa Pagtulong, Sigasig sa Pagsulong ng Bayan (HEART TO REACH OUT, ZEAL FOR NATION-BUILDING)

There is immense transformation that occurs when change-driven people get together to work and build the future. The Metrobank Foundation’s Grants and Social Development Partnerships program gathers like-minded individuals and organizations who burn with the heart and zeal to make a positive social impact over the long haul.

These partnerships are bounded by a singular purpose: to level off the playing field for everyone—and get to a society where there are no more divides between the rich and poor, the male and female, the old and young. The Metrobank Foundation believes that the best way of doing this is, as the saying goes, not by giving people a fish and feeding them for a day, but by teaching them to fish, in hopes of feeding them and the generations ahead for a lifetime.

For in the end, it is impossible to solve our society’s desperate problems without the full participation of everyone. Our country and the world need all our hands on deck.

P20M

OF GRANTS DONATED TO 50 SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS IN 2019 Social development partners from MicroVentures Foundation, Inc. and their Hapinoy beneficiaries

Financial and In-kind Grant Assistance is extended to socio-civic and non-government organizations, as well as local and national government agencies whose projects/programs are aligned with the thrusts of the Foundation in health, education, arts, and livelihood, including the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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Hapinoy is on a mission to be the Filipino people’s partner in nation-building by empowering the micro-enterprises— the local neighborhoods’ humble sari-sari stores. Thirteen (13) years into this campaign, it continues to adapt to the evolving needs of micro-entrepreneurs. The organization believes that the potential of these small retail outlets, when nurtured and taken together, can create a ripple. A thriving and sustainable economy is within reach.

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GRANTS PROGRAM: ADVANCING SUPPORT FOR HEALTH, EDUCATION, ARTS, AND LIVELIHOOD INTERVENTIONS

PROVIDING ACCESS TO CLEAN WATER AND SANITATION FOR SCHOOLCHILDREN

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n 2019, the grantmaking initiatives of Metrobank Foundation, joining forces with the Ty family foundation—GT Foundation, Inc. (GTFI), have helped social development partners to implement programs that help raise the quality of life of the poorest, most vulnerable, and underserved sectors of society.

Under “Grants and Social Development Partnerships,” programs and projects of socio-civic organizations, charitable and government institutions are supported with development grants aimed at contributing significant and sustainable solutions to the country’s social development challenges on health, education, arts, and livelihood (HEAL). To arrive at a more strategic and responsive approach, development grants are aligned to specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — SDG 6 (Ensure Availability and Sustainable Management of Water and Sanitation for All); SDG 4 (Ensure Inclusive and Equitable Quality Education and Promote Lifelong Learning Opportunities for All); and SDG 1 (End Poverty in All its Forms Everywhere).

In 2019, a total of 50 organizations were provided with grant assistance, with a total amount of PhP 20 million benefiting a combined 24,115 beneficiaries. The annual Anniversary Grants Turnover Ceremony on September 4 at the Metrobank Plaza Auditorium in Makati City honored 40 social development partners through a total of PhP 35 million worth of development grants. City of Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso graced the occasion.

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SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS HONORED DURING THE ANNIVERSARY GRANTS TURNOVER CEREMONY

24,115 INDIVIDUALS ASSISTED BY THE GRANTS COURSED THROUGH SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS

lobally, one (1) in every eight (8) people does not have access to safe and clean drinking water. Water, while this is a basic right, many are still denied of it and remains to be a primary concern in some underprivileged communities across the country.

Under the health thrust for its grant-making initiatives, Metrobank Foundation supports the construction of WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) facilities in select public schools, aligned with SDG 6 ‘Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.’

In 2019, Radio Mindanao Network Foundation (RMNF) was granted a development assistance for the implementation of its health program aimed at enhancing the health and quality of life of the poor and vulnerable by improving sustainable access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene in select areas where it operates.

Founded in 2012, RMNF serves as the corporate social responsibility arm of Radio Mindanao Network Inc. or RMN Networks Inc. (a media network consisting of 65 AM and FM stations nationwide), envisioned to improve the quality of life of the people, particularly the sick, the poor and other underserved and vulnerable individuals and communities through humanitarian aid and services, social welfare programs, and other forms of immediate assistance.

WASH facilities were constructed in three (3) public elementary schools, namely: Carreta Elementary School in Cebu City (benefitting 10,000 students); Iponan Elementary School in Cagayan de Oro City (benefitting 300 students); and Poloyagan Elementary School in Pagadian City (benefiting 500 students).

The school principals were grateful for the WASH facilities since it will significantly lessen the chances for children to acquire skin diseases and other water-borne illnesses, at the same time, promote cleanliness, proper hygiene, and good grooming among them.

“The WASH Program significantly helped the children and their families. They were taught and guided through proper hand washing and good grooming practices. The children were able to understand the importance and impact of good hygiene to their overall health and daily lives, and ultimately the prevention of diseases,” said RMNF corporate social responsibility manager Rhoda Navarro.

She added that the program has prevented absenteeism among the schoolchildren, thereby allowing them to perform well in their academics and extra-curricular activities. Moreover, the students were also taught about the value of water conservation.

15,609 BENEFICIARIES ASSISTED FOR THE HEALTH THRUST IN 2019

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ACCESS TO QUALITY EDUCATION FOR THOSE IN THE MARGINS

ART AND PYSCHOTHERAPY ROLLED INTO ONE

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oremost in the grant-making initiatives of the Metrobank Foundation aligns with SDG 4 “Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.”

Investments in support of programs and projects on education continued to flourish in 2019.

Children of Asia (COA) was among the organizations supported under the education thrust by the Metrobank Foundation. Started in 1998, COA has been among NGOs in providing a holistic support to underprivileged families in the province of Cebu. Children from rural areas are given assistance to pursue education where they are given allowances, a monthly rice subsidy, including medical assistance and basic moral support. The long term goal is to propel them to achieve educational success in order for them to apply for employment opportunities.

“Educational sponsorship programs are indeed a long-term commitment. In the case of Children of Asia, we are supporting children as early as elementary. Providing access to education enables a child to develop his/her capacity so that one day, they too can become independent. This would eventually end the cycle of poverty,” shares COA deputy program director Marione Bacalso.

In 2019, Metrobank Foundation sponsored 11 junior high school students under COA’s Medellin Education Program. The assistance will continue until all learners finish senior high school by 2021.

A full-time and field-based social worker from COA monitors the

progress of each beneficiary through home and school visits while counselling sessions are held whenever needed. A career-orientation seminar was also held in September 2019.

Scholar Princess Batac, 14, shared that she gained not just knowledge and learning but also friends she can depend on. The regular financial support she receives for her education enables her parents to reduce their household expenses. The eldest from a family of eight from Medellin, Cebu, Princess added that the scholarship and monthly stipend she receives unburdens her mother from her financial budgeting given that four of her siblings are also studying. “Malaki ang naging impact ng programa sa akin at sa aking pamilya dahil lumiliit na lang ang gastusin namin sa pag-aaral ko (The program had a great impact on my life and to my family since it has lessened our expenses for studying.),” she expresses.

She considers Math, Science, and English as her favorite subjects.

She dreams of becoming a lawyer in the future to uplift their family’s living condition and to fight for justice to those who cannot afford it. She envisions that as soon as she becomes a successful professional, she will give back to COA.

“Sasali ako bilang alumnus at pwede akong maging resource speaker sa mga activities nila. Pwede ko ring ibahagi kung ano ang mga natutunan at napagdaanan ko para maabot ang aking mga pangarap (I will give back as an alumnus and will be a resource speaker for their activities. I shall also share what I have learned and what I have been through in order to reach my aspirations),” concludes Princess.

2,681 BENEFICIARIES ASSISTED FOR THE EDUCATION THRUST IN 2019

ur armed forces have sworn to lay down their lives for others and for the country. They live through war and are the strongest advocates for peace. They have to contend with an intergenerational cycle of insurgency, extremist beliefs, and political shifts—and, on occasion, the ravages of nature. Facing such challenges in many instances, they would face danger and get wounded in order to stay true to their mission.

The Metrobank Foundation continues to recognize their acts of valor, not only through the annual recognition of Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos, but also to reach out to comrades-in-arms who have sacrificed their precious lives in order to respond to communities divided by strife and bring hope to a nation longing for reconciliation.

In 2019, Metrobank Foundation supported ArtPsych Circle, Inc., a civil society organization composed of psychologists and psychology practitioners who partner with artists in the use of psychotherapy and arts for holistic healing and promotion of wellbeing. The group helps individuals and groups, especially the marginalized, get access to and experience the ways of healing and wellbeing through the combined use of arts and psychology. The group has worked with various individuals and communities including teachers, social workers, soldiers, disaster survivors, children-in-conflict-with-the-law, childrenwith-autism, and children and adolescents with history of abuse and neglect. As a professional psychology organization, the organization works with artists to marry psychotherapy and the arts towards holistic healing and promotion of well-being.

The support from the Metrobank Foundation has enabled them to fulfill this mission and reach out to target groups and individuals.

It has also led to seamless collaborations among like-minded organizations having the common goal to facilitate recovery and healing among those from the margins.

The partnership between Metrobank Foundation and ArtPsych Circle, through the MADE- NOW (Network of Winners), dates back in 2013 when Dr. Grace Brillantes-Evangelista, president of the ArtPsych Circle, was invited to provide arts-based psychosocial support for children-in-conflict-with-the-law (CICL) at the Molave Youth Home in Quezon City. Since then, a number of projects were implemented in partnership with ArtPysch Circle that benefitted children-with-specialneeds and CICLs.

From June to July 2019, six (6) sessions of the very first ‘Pahingalayan ng mga Bayani’ were conducted at the V. Luna Medical Center in Quezon City. A total of 154 individuals composed of soldiers and their dependents participated in the program. These patients came from the Convalescence Ward, Orthopaedic Ward, Pedia Ward, Spine Ward, and Psychiatric Ward, either ambulatory and non-ambulatory patients, with most of them in pre-operative or post-operative care. Given that the participants came from the different wards of the hospital, the theme, specific objectives and module of each session were carefully crafted taking into consideration their conditions and profiles. Different art modalities were employed with movement, music, and visual arts as staple art activities across all sessions.

The first session “Sama-sama sa Paghinga” (Breathe as One) enjoined all participants to learn the Baybayin script and use this in designing personalized scrolls. They were asked to ponder and share their thoughts on the concept of breathing. Participants shared that the session reminded them of their families, their homes, nature and freedom. The second session “Halina! Sumama sa Ating Samahan” (Come! Join our Ranks) explored the concept of the participants’ selfidentities through paper doll art and their appreciation of their respective communities through flag-designing.

“We, in the ArtPsych Circle, continue to fulfill our mission with the help of individuals, organizations, and institutions that also believe in the transforming and healing power of the arts and psychosocial action.

We find our beneficiaries (who are vulnerable and marginalized) as our greatest inspiration in the work that we do. It is with the mindset that it is only when we begin to look after each other that we can cultivate healing and wellbeing as a community,” Dr. Brillantes- Evangelista expresses.

Participants were thankful not only for the fellowship formed in the sessions but for their newfound appreciation in living, according to Dr. Brillantes-Evangelista. “In one soldier’s words, we are all going through our own struggles, but we all have to keep going. Our pain, our wounds, our loss become our new-found strengths so that we do not become less of a hero but rather, we change and rise up to the challenge of being differently-abled. Our experiences empower us for the next challenges and we choose to fight as faithful, steadfast soldiers of life,” she shares.

3,510 BENEFICIARIES ASSISTED FOR THE ARTS THRUST IN 2019

Most recent were activities implemented to cater to military soldiers who were wounded-in-action which started in June 2019, in partnership with MADE-NOW, TOPSOLDIERS (The Organization of Philippine Soldiers with Outstanding Leadership, Dedication, Integrity, Excellence, and Responsibility to Society), Miriam College Ka-Psych and the AFP Medical Center.

Guided by the principles of Psychology and arts-based approaches, Pahingalayan is derived from “Pahinga + Hinga + Alay sa Isang Pahingahan.” The program provides arts-based activities that cultivate attunement and wellbeing. It aims to provide participants with a safe space where they can find a peaceful respite from their stresses, anxiety, and medical condition.

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EMPOWERING PINAY MICRO-ENTREPRENEURS

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iving a quick snapshot of a local Filipino neighborhood would not be complete without the variety or sari-sari stores, these small retail outlets situated in nearly every block of both rural and urban areas. These micro-businesses are often an extension of a family’s home and run by the matriarch to augment her family’s income.

These mothers (or nanays) are the micro-entrepreneurs MicroVentures Foundation, Inc. or Hapinoy seeks to empower.

Hapinoy, whose name is derived from ‘Happy Filipino,’ is a social enterprise organization that envisions a network of thriving and sustainable micro-businesses “contributing to the socio-economic growth of their families, their communities, and their country.”

It aims to be the partner of the sari-sari store owners nationwide in growing their business through training, capacity-building, and access to micro-finance and new business opportunities.

Metrobank Foundation shares in their aspiration and in 2019 a development grant was extended to MicroVentures Foundation, Inc. for their Samahang Pinoy “Business Friends Forever (BFF)” program.

Through this partnership, the initiative seeks to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 1 of ending poverty in all its forms with its grassroots-oriented approach of utilizing the humble sari-sari stores’ collective potential in creating a bigger impact among communities.

Samahang Hapinoy embodies the slogan “Ang maliliit, kapag pinagsama-sama, may kapangyarihang gumawa ng pagbabago (Small units, when grouped together, have the power to make a change).” In this program, sari-sari store owners are organized into business cells or a local peer support networks where they can share business experiences or help each other address challenges.

RESPONDING READILY IN TIMES OF NATURAL CALAMITIES “Nagkaroon ako ng confidence na patakbuhin yung store ko simula nung nag-join ako dito (I was able to gain confidence in running my business since joining (this program)),” said Eilene, a sari-sari store owner from Matandang Balara, Quezon City.

Eilene also shared how being part of BFF has helped her better operate her store through the insights shared during cell meetings.

The gatherings also became an avenue for all members to talk about personal stories and encourage one another to remain resilient in the face of challenges.

“At bago nagkaroon ng BFF, pag may tindahan si kapitbahay kompetensya yung tingin mo, ngayon hindi na. Naging magkakaibigan kami dahil sa mga cell meeting namin. Natututo kami sa mga kwento at experiences ng isa’t isa. In case na may project yung lugar namin, dahil close na kami, may tulungan na (And before BFF, we then considered other neighbors who owned stores as competitors, but it’s different now. We’ve become friends because of our cell meetings. We learn from each other’s stories and experiences. In case there’s a project in our area, because we’re close, we help each other out.),” added Eilene.

When asked about what sustains HAPINOY to continue empowering these women micro-entrepreneurs, HAPINOY’s co-founder Mark Ruiz said, “We’re 13 years into this mission. What really animates our organization is our aim to be a partner of the micro-enterprises.

And I appreciate the mothers who tell me that because of HAPINOY, their business not only grew but it helped see them through rough times.”

1,770

BENEFICIARIES ASSISTED FOR THE LIVELIHOOD THRUST IN 2019

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n times of natural disasters, Metrobank Foundation immediately activates its funds to help address the immediate needs of calamity survivors. In 2019, a total amount of PhP 8 million was released primarily to provide relief assistance to displaced families.

On July 2019, PhP 1 million worth of assistance was extended to the province of Batanes after a 6.4 magnitude earthquake. In partnership with TV5 Alagang Kapatid Foundation, relief packs containing mats, blankets, mosquito nets, water, and sanitation and hygiene kits were donated to families in temporary shelters.

Similarly, another PhP 1 million worth of assistance was donated to select public hospitals in the Visayan region, following the Department of Health’s (DOH) declaration of National Dengue Alert.

The assistance supported the logistical needs of Roxas Memorial Provincial Hospital in Roxas City, Western Visayas Medical Center in Iloilo City, and Samar Provincial Hospital in Catbalogan City. To effectively treat dengue stricken patients, IV fluids, lancets, folding beds, IV perfusion pumps, tents, and NSI RDT kits were procured.

On November 2019, Metrobank Foundation released PhP 4 million worth of assistance to assist earthquake-affected families in Kidapawan City and Makilala, North Cotabato and Magsaysay, Davao del Sur. The series of relief operations were held in partnership with AFP, PNP, DSWD, and local Metrobank branches.

On December 2019, Metrobank Foundation released as well an amount of PhP 1.5 million to conduct relief operations for families affected by typhoon Tisoy (Kammuri) in Bicol and Eastern Visayas regions as well as for some families affected by the intensified northeast monsoon rains in Cagayan province. In the same month, families affected by typhoon Ursula in the Roxas City and Pilar, Capiz, municipalities of Guiuan, Hernani, and Salcedo in the province of Eastern Samar, and Naval, Biliran were given PhP 1 million humanitarian aid. This series of relief operations was spearheaded by local Metrobank branches.

10,947

FAMILIES ASSISTED DURING CALAMITIES AND DISASTERS IN 2019

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METROBANK FOUNDATION PROFESSORIAL CHAIRS: NURTURING DISCUSSIONS ON PUBLIC INTEREST

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n 2019, the Metrobank Foundation sustained its advocacy to create venues for public discourse by recognizing distinguished individuals from the fields of public service and governance, law, health, and education under its Metrobank Foundation Professorial Chairs program. Six (6) distinguished experts were welcomed to its roster of chairholders who delivered well-thought-out studies and researches before a group of audience from diverse fields.

CHIEF JUDICIAL MAGISTRATE PRESENTS CRIMINAL LAW ENACTMENTS Then Associate Justice Diosdado Peralta, now the chief magistrate of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, was the chairholder of the 16th Metrobank Foundation Professorial Chair in Law held on October 2 at the Supreme Court En Banc Session Hall, City of Manila.

His paper “The Significance of Recent Development in Criminal Law, Procedure and Jurisprudence to the Philippine Judicial System” discussed interchange of initiatives between and among branches of the government in the development of criminal law with emphasis on judicial reforms.

He cited legislative enactments and Supreme Court rules and decisions on the adjustment of penalties, probation, plea bargaining in drug cases, reduction of sentences of personas deprived of liberties based on good conduct time allowance, community service, continuous trial and the use of videoconferencing technology in conducting testimonies. According to him, these efforts do not only aid in decongesting court dockets and address court delays but also because they “greatly affect the rights of the accused of life and liberty.”

A partnership with the Supreme Court of the Philippines-Philippine Judicial Academy, the Metrobank Foundation Professorial Chair in Law seeks to promote excellence in the judiciary and legal education through the delivery of timely and comprehensive discourses by seasoned legal practitioners.

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BOLSTERING GLOBAL COMPETENCE OF MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS

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For the Doña Victoria Ty Tan Professorial Chairs in Medical Education, University of Santo Tomas (UST) Faculty of Medicine and Surgery professors and established medical researchers Dr. Sandra Navarra and Dr. Fidela Moreno⎯ were recognized as the first chairholders on December 19 at the Dr. George S. K. Ty Function Hall, Paredes Building in UST, City of Manila.

PROFESSORIAL CHAIR LECTURES IMPLEMENTED SINCE 1981

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Dr. Navarra’s paper, “Road Less Travelled: Clinicians as Teacher and Researcher,” presented the twin roles of clinicians in the academe and research especially in coming up with sound clinical trials to improve treatments and medications for patients.

DISTINGUISHED PROFESSORIAL CHAIRHOLDERS SINCE 1981

Chief Justice Peralta joined past professorial chairholders: Court of Appeals Associate Justice Japar Dimaampao (2018), Retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Romeo Callejo (2017), Retired Court of Appeals Associate Justice Magdangal de Leon (2016), Retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Jose Vitug (2014), Supreme Court Associate Justice Marvic Leonen (2009) and Retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Adolfo Azcuna (2007).

TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY AS FOUNDATIONS OF GOOD GOVERNANCE 15th Metrobank Foundation Professorial Chair in Public Service and Governance chairholder Commission on Audit (COA) Chairperson Miguel Aguinaldo delivered his paper, “Transparency, Accountability and Rule of Law: Boon or Bane to Government Initiatives,” on February 22 at the Ateneo Professional Schools (APS), Rockwell Center in Makati City. He highlighted how COA enforces transparency, demands accountability, and observes the rule of law in all its transactions as part of good governance.

A joint undertaking with the Ateneo de Manila University since 2002, the program recognizes distinguished servant leaders for their exceptional contributions to national development. Other notable professorial chairholders include Vice President Maria Leonor Robredo (2017), former Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales (2016), former Department of Social Welfare and Development secretary Corazon Soliman (2015), former Department of Foreign

Affairs secretary Albert del Rosario (2014), former Department of Budget and Management secretary Florencio Abad (2013), and former Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita QuintosDeles (2012).

NURTURING PEOPLE’S PROSPERITY UNDER THE RULE OF LAW Two (2) distinguished University of the Philippines (UP) College of Law faculty members Atty. Elizabeth Aguiling-Pangalanan and Atty.

Ma. Tanya Karina Lat⎯were conferred 15th and 16th chairholders of the Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban Professorial Chair on Liberty and Prosperity on March 28 and November 25 at the Bocobo Hall, UP Law Complex in Diliman, Quezon City, respectively.

Furthering this, Dr. Moreno’s paper “Teaching and Research: Are They Exclusive?” emphasized the need for rigorous research protocols that adhere to good clinical practice. To her, the integration of both practices ensures the continued learning in the advancement of medical knowledge.

In partnership with the UST Research and Endowment Foundation, Inc., the Doña Victoria Ty Tan Professorial Chair in Medical Education highlights breakthroughs and innovations on medical education, named after the mother of the late Dr. George Ty Siao Kian. It seeks to encourage the academe to bolster the global competence of local medical practitioners.

Atty. Pangalanan’s paper “Parents and Children: When Law and Technology Unbundle Traditional Liberties” presented the intricacies of adoption and surrogacy in both local and international settings.

On the other hand, Atty. Lat’s paper “The Law School as Generative Social Field for Cultivating Liberty, Prosperity and the Rule of Law” discussed the state of legal education and law schools in the country as potential seedbeds and incubators of liberty, prosperity and the rule of law. She expressed that there is more to examine in the legal curricula and pedagogical methods.

A joint undertaking with the Foundation of Liberty and Prosperity, Inc. (FLP) since 2012, the professorial chair seeks to champion the twin judicial philosophies of Ret. Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban,⎯the safeguarding of liberty and the nurturing of people’s prosperity under the rule of law.

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METROBANK FOUNDATION FELLOWSHIP IN PUBLIC SERVICE: OUTSTANDING FILIPINOS CASCADING EXCELLENT PRACTICES TO FELLOWS

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n 2019, Metrobank Foundation pursued a number of activities that served as venues for Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos to share their best practices in both personal and professional endeavors to a greater audience. Through the Metrobank Foundation Fellowship in Public Service (FPS) program, 12 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos were conferred the ‘Fellows in Public Service’ title from different gatherings in select areas of the country. More than 1,500 participants from the academe, military and police sectors, and other stakeholders attended these lectures.

INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION OF GALLANT SOLDIERS 2018 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Soldiers Lieutenant Colonels Danilo Facundo, Thomas Ryan Seguin, and Francis Señoron presented their talks before 150 military personnel from different major service units of the Armed Forces on January 19 at the Philippine Marine Headquarters in Taguig City.

Dubbed as ‘Philippine Navy’s Joint and Interagency Champion,’ Lt. Col. Facundo has initiated programs that uphold diversity and equal opportunity within the military and in communities he had served. His talk, “Leadership in Joint Operational Environment,” discussed the keys to become an effective leader during interagency interventions to combat insurgency, summarized into three (3) points: build trust; communicate the strategy; and ‘think AFP.’ Lt. Col. Seguin, ‘Philippine Air Force’s Warfighter,’ introduced “Philippine Air Force FA-50 Combat Air Operations” providing a general information on the build of the aircraft, its artillery capabilities, air-to-air mission employment, and FA-50’s deployment prerequisites to help the ground troops better understand the integration of air and ground forces relative to the aircraft. Lt. Col. Seguin serves as a mentor to young troops to become qualified pilots.

Meanwhile, ‘Philippine Army’s Explosives Engineer’ Lt. Col. Señoron presented “Improvised Explosive Devices Recognition and Safety Awareness” educating his audience about the various types of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), its indicators and impact, and shared tips on safety precautions when dealing with suspected IEDs. Much of his career focused on developing counter-explosive tools and providing training for various stakeholders that have resulted to a more efficient and safer bomb disposal operations.

On a separate occasion, 2017 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Soldier and ‘CARAGA’s Lumad Hero’ Staff Sergeant Narding Pascual of the Philippine Army shared “Lessons From the Frontlines: Tried-and-Tested Counter-Strategies and Tactics versus Communist Insurgents” on August 2 at Camp Brigadier General Edilberto Evangelista in Cagayan de Oro City. He presented effective tactical approaches against rebel groups, specifically on how to empower Lumad communities to prevent the infiltration and recruitment by the leftists. A native of the Banwaon tribe, he has spearheaded operations that resulted to a number of rebels to surrender and advocated as well some forms of non-violent struggle by initiating development projects in his own community such as a school building, livelihood opportunities, and rural electrification.

POLICE OFFICERS SHARE PRACTICES ON CRIME PREVENTION AND SOLUTION Dubbed as ‘Misamis Oriental’s Horse-Mounted Cop,’ 2018 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Police Officer Police Captain Dennis Ebsolo presented “Effectiveness of Horse-Mounted Patrol in the Philippine Setting” in a roundtable discussion with key stakeholders on April 26 at the PNP Headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City. He shared how he led the use of horses in patrolling 12 hinterland barangays in Cagayan de Oro City that led to the immediate dispositions of community crimes.

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FELLOWS IN PUBLIC SERVICE SINCE 2017

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On July 18, on the other hand, two (2) lady Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Police Officers Police Lieutenant Shiela May Pansoy (2017) and Police Master Sergeant Aida Awitin (2018) joined hands to educate the youth of Sta. Maria, Davao Occidental on community crime prevention through the PNP Junior Police program.

P/Lt. Pansoy, ‘Davao del Sur’s Anti-Abuse Herald,’ talked about “Responsibilities in Crime Prevention” which presented relevant and realistic means that schools and communities can do to help in crime prevention and create a safer environment for learning. In 2015, she established Hagonoy Junior Police that trained students from 24 schools to become advocates of anti-bullying and antigangsterism.

Meanwhile, PMSgt. Awitin discussed “Know Thy Enemy” providing an overview on the existing and known terrorist groups in the country that could affect institutions of learning. Known as ‘Davao Occidental’s Enforcer-Educator,’ PMSgt. Awitin is a licensed teacher turned police officer and the moving force behind the institutionalization of Lingap Mamamayan in Malita, Davao Occidental. In 2017, she also established their town’s Junior Police assembling 112 students from 6 schools.

TEACHERS CREATING RIPPLES OF CHANGE ‘Agusan del Norte’s Culture Coach’ and 2017 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Teacher Edgar Elago presented “Budaya Ug Alampat (Culture and Arts): Its Significance to the Education System” on February 28 at Agusan National High School in Butuan City. He highlighted how culture-based education serves as a foundation to build appreciation, awareness and understanding of the rich Filipino heritage among learners. He shared how he developed culture-based lessons and modules and localized instructional materials in teaching major subjects.

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In a similar approach, ‘Philippine’s Foremost World War II Historian’ and 2019 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Teacher Dr. Ricardo Jose discussed “Increasing Historical Awareness: Public History and World War II in the Philippines” on November 15 at the Quezon City Experience in Diliman, Quezon City. He introduced alternative ways in History instruction and provided examples on how to link the past to contemporary issues. Dr. Jose has spent more than 40 years filling the gaps between the country’s past.

Meanwhile, 2017 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Teacher, the late Dr. Alonzo Gabriel presented “Bukluran: Exploring the Food Science and Nutrition Nexus towards Achieving the UN SDGs Related to Food, Nutrition, and Health Security” on March 8 at the College of Home Economics, University of the Philippines Diliman in Quezon City. Dubbed as ‘Diliman’s Food Security Advocate,’ Dr. Gabriel highlighted the importance of convergence or interaction between disciplines and expertise in achieving food, nutrition and health security. Invited nutritionists, dieticians, food technologists, students and other professionals from the health and food industries attended the lecture.

‘Manila’s Master Microbiologist’ and 2017 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Teacher Dr. Esperanza Cabrera presented “Fostering Antimicrobial Stewardship in the Context of WHO/FAO/ OIE’s ‘One Health’ Approach” on June 27 at the De La Salle University, City of Manila. She discussed the current situation of antimicrobial resistance in the country, the ongoing measures each sector has to undertake to combat the problem, and how different stakeholders can work together to promote and implement the correct usage of antimicrobial agents.

Lastly, ‘Tagaytay’s Visionary Science Teacher’ and 2017 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Teacher Dr. Jennifer Rojo talked about “Science Made Easy: Sharing Best Practices in Teaching Elementary Science” on May 28 at the Cavite Provincial Gym in Trece Martires City, Cavite. Dr. Rojo highlighted strategies like explicit instruction and mobile science hub development to address poor comprehension in science learning among students, attended by 400 teachers from the province.

ESTIMATED NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS ACROSS VARIOUS SECTORS ATTENDED FPS LECTURES IN 2019

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2019 BAGS OF BLESSING: A TRADITION OF GIVING BACK DURING CHINESE NEW YEAR

SUCCESS IN PUBLIC RELATIONS TOWARDS GREATER NATION-BUILDING

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METROBANK FOUNDATION WINS BIG AT THE 55TH ANVIL AWARDS: TAKES HOME HALL OF FAME AWARD FOR NATIONAL TEACHERS’ MONTH

ogether with GT Foundation, Inc. (GTFI), Metrobank Foundation kicked off the 2019 Bags of Blessing on February 5 at San Agustin Church in the City of Manila.

Almost 2,000 employee volunteers extended time to repack and help during the distribution. The successful distribution of 10 thousand bags to 10 thousand families was made possible through the support of select Metrobank branches, Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police.

Started in 2011, the Bags of Blessing program was a brainchild of the late Metrobank Group chairman and founder Dr. George Ty Siao Kian to reach out to underprivileged families during Chinese New Year celebration. Red bags containing a thousand worth of grocery items were distributed to beneficiaries chosen by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), through its national network of Diocesan Action Centers, as well as families who live below the poverty line, those affected by recent calamities, including Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) non-beneficiaries.

MANILA DOCTORS HOSPITAL: LEADING IN HEALTHCARE, PARTNER IN NATION-BUILDING

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anila Doctors Hospital (MDH) serves as the healthcare arm of the Metrobank Foundation, offering a wide array of social services such as subsidies for in-house patients, outreach programs, medical missions, and other healthrelated interventions in adopted communities.

With the support of GT Foundation, Inc., MDH was able to accomplish corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs which include various medical services for indigent communities and promotion of healthy and clean environment through waste management. Last year, MDH also held its annual SHINE Awards to recognize the contributions of volunteers and employees in the success of its CSR interventions.

In 2019, MDH received accolades from prestigious award-giving bodies, a validation of its excellence in providing healthcare and wellness in the Philippines— first recipient of the Agora Awards “Outstanding Achievement in Advocacy Marketing in Support of the United Nations Global Compact – Sustainable Development Goals (UNGC-SDG)” by the Philippine Marketing Association; “Silver Award for CSR Excellence” for #SaveAChildSaveTheNation, its 5th award from the International Hospital Federation; and “2019 Outstanding Hospital Award (Level 3-Private)” by the Philippine Hospital Association.

1,783 patients

SERVED DURING THE EXTERNAL MEDICAL AND SURGICAL MISSIONS IN WESTERN VISAYAS, CALOOCAN, PASIG, AND CAVITE

1,642 patients

GIVEN FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR THEIR HOSPITAL BILLS

90 eyes

RECEIVED FREE SURGERY FOR CATARACT REMOVAL WITH FREE INTRAOCULAR LENS

Metrobank Foundation during that night took home its third “Hall of Fame” award for spearheading the “National Teachers’ Month (NTM).” A movement led by Metrobank Foundation and the Department of Education, NTM recognizes Filipino teachers and educators for their contribution to national development. It also aims to intensify all efforts in recognizing the indispensable role of Filipino teachers in shaping minds across generations.

NTM is annually celebrated for an entire month from September 5 to October 5.The Hall of Fame Award is given to a company or organization that won the Gold Anvil Award five (5) times for a program or tool in the same category, not necessarily in consecutive years. In 2016 and 2018, MBFI received the Hall of Fame award for Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE) and Metrobank-MTAPDepEd Math Challenge (MMC), respectively.

#OneWithMarawi Part 2 333 LEARNER KITS, 979 BOOKS, 1 DIY SHELF

#PassTheVakulforItbayat 300 6L DRINKING WATER, 1,100 BEDSHEETS, 300 SOLAR LAMPS, 200 LED BULBS, 250 SACKS OF CEMENT

66 patients

RECEIVED FREE SURGERY FOR OVARIAN OR UTERINE TUMORS

INTERNAL DONORS: 134 EXTERNAL DONORS: 71

SERVED IN THE CSR OUTPATIENT CLINIC WITH DISCOUNTED RATES

MEDICINES FOR 300 ADULT & PEDIATRIC PATIENTS

Western Visayas Dengue Outbreak Roxas Memorial Provincial Hospital MEDICINES FOR 300 ADULT & PEDIATRIC PATIENTS

#MDHFORMINDANAO

44 BOXES OF TOILETRIES & HALAL GOODS

54 frontliners 12 patients

TRAINED IN BASIC FILIPINO SIGN LANGUAGE AND VISUAL GESTURAL COMMUNICATION

RECEIVED FREE SURGERY FOR CLEFT LIP & PALATE

132 partners 16 patients

24 NEW PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS WERE WELCOMED IN 2019

RECEIVED FREE SURGERY FOR GOITER

289 Green Rebels

VOLUNTEERED IN 2019 FOR ACTIVITIES IN ARROCEROS FOREST PARK

Other programs and tools that won Silver Anvil included: Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos; “Puso at Sigasig (Heart & Zeal): Metrobank Foundation’s 40th Anniversary Celebration;” “UNLEASH: 2020 Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE)’s 35th Anniversary Celebration.”

Metrobank Foundation has been winning Anvil awards since 1985.

To date, it has won 88 Anvil awards for its various programs and public relations tools, including the much coveted Grand Anvil, gaining the record as the first corporate foundation to win a back-to-back Grand Anvil (2009 and 2010) and two Platinum Anvils in the history of the award-giving body.

17TH PHILIPPINE QUILL AWARDS: A TRIBUTE TO THE FOUNDER AWARDED WITH A SEAL OF EXCELLENCE Meanwhile, Metrobank Foundation bagged four (4) awards at the 17th Philippine Quill Awards organized by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC)-Philippines on August 30, 2019 at the Marriott Grand Ballroom, Pasay City. MBFI took home two (2) Quill Awards of Excellence and two (2) Quill Awards of Merit.

Under the Communication Skills Division, “Good night, Mr. George Ty. I’ll see you in the morning,” a eulogy delivered by Metrobank Foundation president Aniceto Sobrepeña during the wake of Dr. George Ty Siao Kian, received a Quill Award of Excellence. His tribute endeavored to celebrate Dr. Ty’s generosity of spirit, encourage others by his life and works, and communicate corporate social responsibility programs and initiatives that served as avenues for life transformation of the target beneficiaries. The speech was not just about the good Dr. Ty had done, but highlighted his philanthropy as the expression of the meaningful life he chose to live.

NILAD @ Baseco, Manila

99 BOTTLES OF IV FLUIDS

205 bags of blood 21,243 patients

The Metrobank Foundation took home the Hall of Fame Award including one (1) Gold Anvil and three (3) Silver Anvil at the 55th Anvil Awards held on February 28, 2020 at The Manila Hotel, One Rizal Park, City of Manila. Considered as the Oscars of public relations industry in the Philippines, the Anvil is the symbol of excellence in public relations awarded by distinguished multisectoral jury to outstanding public relations programs and tools, organized by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP).

Metrobank Foundation also bagged a Gold Anvil trophy for the “2019 Metrobank Foundation Fellowship in Public Service,” a venue where professional milestones and personal life stories of Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos are brought to the fore.

Achievements that result to positive change and innovations that address major societal concerns are highlighted and widely-shared.

Metrobank Foundation president and officers received the Hall of Fame trophy, one Gold Anvil, and three Silver Anvils during the 55th Anvil Awards Gabi ng Parangal

P 154,425.50

TOTAL AMOUNT RAISED FROM RECYCLABLES IN 2019 60% (P 65,057.40) WILL SUPPORT CSR ACTIVITIES

225 pupils 46 patients

RECEIVED FREE SURGERY FOR GALLSTONE REMOVAL

BENEFITTED IN THE TOTAL WELLNESS ACTIVITY WITH PEDIATRIC, DENTAL, OPHTALMOLOGY, & ORL CONSULTATION

812 brigada volunteers P 193,734.00

2,383 volunteers 21,838.28 VOLUNTEER HOURS 3,754 VOLUNTEER INSTANCES

WORTH OF BRIGADA ESKWELA DONATIONS

MDH is a member of the International Hospital Federation, an accredited hospital of Accreditation Canada International, and reporting member of the United Nations Global Compact Network.

13 patients

RECEIVED FREE SURGERY FOR HERNIA

First Awardee 337 patients served 21 BHWs trained

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN ADVOCACY MARKETING IN SUPPORT OF UNITED NATIONS GLOBAL COMPACT SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

Metrobank Foundation took home two Quill Awards of Excellence and two Quill Awards of Merit during the 17th Philippine Quill Awards Night.

FROM BARANGAY 662

1,989 pupils served 44

METROBANK FOUNDATION, INC.

FROM AMADO V. HERNANDEZ ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

2019 ANNUAL REPORT

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BOARD OF ADVISERS

Another Quill Award of Excellence went to “Beyond Excellence: the 2018 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos souvenir program,” a publication that presents the stories and accomplishments of the 2018 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos.

On the other hand, “DISCOVER: 2018 Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE) Awarding Ceremony and Exhibit Opening,” the culminating event for the 2018 MADE in Painting and Sculpture, grabbed a Quill Award of Merit. Under the Communication Management Division, the “Gratitude In10sified: 2018 National Teachers’ Month (NTM)” also received a Quill Award of Merit.

HON. ARTEMIO V. PANGANIBAN Chairman

To date, MBFI has won 61 Philippine Quill Awards for its various programs and public relations tools since 1986.

Senior Adviser, Metrobank Retired Chief Justice, Supreme Court of the Philippines

DR. GEORGE S.K. TY POSTHUMOUSLY HONORED FOR HIS PHILANTHROPIC CONTRIBUTIONS BY THE SENATE AND HOUSE Tributes to the late Dr. George Ty Siao Kian continued to pour in. The members of the Senate of the Philippines unanimously adopted Senate Resolution Number 10 “Resolution Posthumously Honoring Dr. George S.K. Ty for his Philanthropic Contributions” on September 9. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives similarly adopted House Resolution Number 10 “Resolution Honoring the Achievements and Contributions of Dr. George Siao Kian Ty, an Outstanding Filipino, Philanthropist, and Business Leader” on the same day.

HON. ALBERT F. DEL ROSARIO Senior Adviser Former Secretary, Department of Foreign Affairs

ELVIRA ONG-CHAN Adviser

House of Representatives, led by House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano, adopted Resolution No. 10 “Resolution honoring the Achievements and Contributions of Dr. George Siao Kian Ty, an Outstanding Filipino, Philanthropist, and Business Leader.”

JAMES GO Adviser Senior Adviser, Metrobank

ALFONSO A. UY Adviser The Senate of the Philippines paid tribute to the late Dr. George Ty Siao Kian by unanimously adopting Resolution Number 10 “Resolution Posthumously Honoring Dr. George S.K. Ty for his Philanthropic Contributions.”

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METROBANK FOUNDATION, INC.

Chairman of the Board of Directors, La Filipino Uygongco Corp.

2019 ANNUAL REPORT

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BOARD OF TRUSTEES ALFRED V. TY Trustee

ARTHUR V. TY Trustee

MARIXI R. PRIETO Trustee

Vice Chairman, GT Capital Holdings, Inc. Director, Metrobank Chairman, Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation Vice Chairman, Metro Pacific Investments Corporation Chairman, Federal Land, Inc. Chairman, Lexus Manila, Inc. President, GT Foundation, Inc.

Chairman, Metrobank Chairman, GT Capital Holdings, Inc. Chairman, Metropolitan Bank (China) Ltd. Vice Chairman, Philippine Savings Bank Vice Chairman, First Metro Investment Corp.

Vice Chairman, AXA Philippines Chairman, GT Foundation, Inc.

Chairperson, Philippine Daily Inquirer

FABIAN S. DEE Trustee President / Director, Metrobank Chairman, Metro Remittance Singapore PTE Ltd. Chairman, LGU Guarantee Corporation Director, Bancnet, Inc.

DR. SERGIO S. CAO Trustee

MARY V. TY Trustee

MILAGROS G. DRILON Trustee

Adviser, Metrobank

ANICETO M. SOBREPEÑA Trustee Vice Chairman, Manila Doctors Hospital Vice Chairman, Federal Land, Inc. Chairman, Manila Tytana Colleges Trustee, Toyota Motor Philippines Schools of Technology, Inc. Executive Vice President, Metrobank Executive Director, GT Foundation, Inc.

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METROBANK FOUNDATION, INC.

President and Chief Academic Officer, Manila Tytana Colleges

ANJANETTE T. DY BUNCIO Trustee Director and Treasurer, GT Capital Holdings, Inc. Director, Treasurer, and Executive Vice President, Federal Land, Inc. Director and Chairman of the Board, Manila Medical Services, Inc. Vice President, GT Foundation, Inc. Executive Vice President and Corporate Secretary, Pro Oil Corporation

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OFFICERS

ARTHUR V. TY Chairman

ANICETO M. SOBREPEÑA President

ZANDRA M. TY Vice President

ALFRED V. TY Vice Chairman

ALESANDRA T. TY Corporate Secretary

ANJANETTE T. DY BUNCIO Senior Vice President NICANOR L. TORRES, JR. Executive Director

IRENE D. LABITAD Assistant Executive Director

ATTY. MELISSA KWONG-GABOR Assistant Corporate Secretary MARILOU BARTOLOME-CIRILO Controller

Not in photo: ANTONIETTA O. CHUA, Treasurer and PAMELA N. GARDAYA, Assistant Treasurer

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METROBANK FOUNDATION, INC.

2019 ANNUAL REPORT

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2019 BATCH OF SCHOLAR GRADUATES

ROSTER OF AWARDEES

MBFI-MANILA TYTANA COLLEGES-YOUTH FOR EXCELLENCE & SERVICE (YES) SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

2019 METROBANK FOUNDATION OUTSTANDING FILIPINOS TEACHERS

SOLDIERS

POLICE

Dorothy S. Tarol, Ph. D. Master Teacher II SPED-Integrated School for Exceptional Children Brgy. San Agustin, Iloilo City

Master Sergeant Ramil A. Caporas PA Team Supervisor/ EOD Technician Explosive Ordnance Disposal Battalion Army Support Command Philippine Army, Camp Servillano S. Aquino Capas, Tarlac

Police Chief Master Sergeant Marsha T. Agustin, RSW Investigator/ Social Worker Women and Children Protection Center PNP Headquarters Camp Brigadier Gen. Rafael T. Crame Quezon City

Cristina B. Cristobal, Ph. D. Special Science Teacher 5 Philippine Science High School Main Campus Diliman, Quezon City Ricardo T. Jose, Ph. D. Professor 12 University of the Philippines Diliman Diliman, Quezon City Eva Maria C. Cutiongco-De La Paz, M. D. Professor 10 University of the Philippines Manila Ermita, City of Manila

Major Romulo G. Dimayuga II PN (M) Former Operations and Training Officer Force Reconnaissance Group Headquarters Philippine Marine Corps Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Lieutenant Colonel John Paul D. Baldomar PA Chief, Current Operations Branch Internal Security Operations Division (ISOD) Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, J3 Armed Forces of the Philippines Camp Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City

Police Major Robert A. Reyes Technical Support Officer Counter Intelligence Taskforce PNP Headquarters Camp Brigadier Gen. Rafael T. Crame Quezon City Police Colonel Edwin A. Quilates Provincial Director Batangas Police Provincial Office Camp Miguel C. Malvar Batangas City

2019 METROBANK ART & DESIGN EXCELLENCE (MADE) OIL/ACRYLIC ON CANVAS CATEGORY

WATERMEDIA ON PAPER CATEGORY

Grand Award: “Evanescing Lives from Homeland” Jayme Emille C. Lucas

Grand Award: “Existence of Blue” Christian Jame F. Maglente

Special Citation: “25/7” Christian Cedrick M. Dela Paz

Special Citation: “Walang Hihigit Pang Sandata” Arman Jay S. Arago

Rachel Anne D. Bañas Cum Laude BS Architecture University of Santo Tomas

Franklin N. Francisco BS Architecture University of Santo Tomas Michael P. Geromo Cum Laude BS Architecture University of the Philippines-Diliman

Winona Esel O. Bernardo Cum Laude BS Architecture University of Santo Tomas Justin B. Berris Cum Laude BS Architecture University of the Philippines–Diliman

Julian Andrei A. Imperial Magna Cum Laude BS Architecture University of the Philippines–Diliman

Mae Frances A. Bisares BS Architecture University of the Philippines–Diliman

Mhel Markin Jo W. Jasme Cum Laude BS Architecture University of the Philippines–Diliman

Jacob Raphael R. Depakakibo BS Architecture University of Santo Tomas

Miere Caitrin C. Lim BS Architecture University of Santo Tomas

Ma. Jabba P. Baquirquir Magna Cum Laude Bachelor of Secondary Education

Rojeno A. Soringa Cum Laude BS Architecture University of the Philippines–Diliman Rovalie P. Tamayao BS Architecture University of the Philippines–Diliman Laurence S. Toloza Cum Laude BS Architecture University of the Philippines–Diliman

Kimberly C. Bontuyan Cum Laude BS Accountancy

Rosalind Therese T. Divina Cum Laude BS Business Administration

Larissa Mae P. Gulben Magna Cum Laude Bachelor of Education

GTFI-MANILA TYTANA COLLEGES-YOUTH FOR EXCELLENCE & SERVICE (YES) SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

2019 METROBANK-MTAP-DEPED MATH CHALLENGE (MMC)

May-Ann B. Ansale BS Accountancy

Daniela Teri R. Co BS Accountancy

Jan Allana R. Ilagan BS Accountancy

1st Place Stephen James L. Ty Aiman Andrei U. Kue Zamboanga Chong Hua High School Zamboanga City

Alexis M. Arenas BS Accountancy

Jham Ellen H. Daylusan BS Accountancy

Xara Mizpah S. Jarcia BS Accountancy

Raynel C. Aricayos BS Accountancy

Alyssa Kate B. Magpantay BS Accountancy

2nd Place Paul Samson B. Topacio Al Patrick C. Castro Makati Science High School Makati City

Cam David A. Baladjay Magna Cum Laude BS Information Technology

Jackylyn D. Go Cum Laude BS Accountancy

GRADE 6 INDIVIDUAL COMPETITION GRADE 10 INDIVIDUAL COMPETITION GRADE 6 TEAM COMPETITION

GRADE 10 TEAM COMPETITION

1st Place Mohammad Nur G. Casib My Precious Child Learning Center Marawi City

1st Place Bryce Ainsley A. Sanchez Grace Christian College Quezon City

2nd Place Tracy Lauren T. Lei Saint Jude Catholic School City of Manila

2nd Place Stephen James L. Ty Zamboanga Chong Hua High School Zamboanga City

1st Place Tracy Lauren T. Lei Nicholas Marcus B. Lua Saint Jude Catholic School City of Manila

3rd Place Miguel I. Cayetano Tuguegarao West Central School Tuguegarao City

3rd Place Kiel Sam V. Talosig Bataan National High School Balanga City, Bataan

2nd Place Francis Rafael C. Flor Muhammad Farouk P. Tan II Silangan Elementary School Taguig City

METROBANK FOUNDATION, INC.

MBFI-PACIFIC PAINT (BOYSEN) SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

GTFI-UNIVERSITY OF SAN CARLOS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

Special Citation: “Upuan” Dave Alcon

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John France A. Mariano BS Accountancy

3rd Place Charles Dwight M. Pelaez Joerenz G. Espillardo Quezon Science High School Tayabas, Quezon

Danica Pearl R. Cardinales BS Accountancy

Bonita Gracia S. Gutierrez Cum Laude BS Nursing Alren Q. Igrubay BS Nursing

Jim Carlo R. Mampusti Magna Cum Laude BS Information Technology Juan Ramon M. Pardo BS Information Technology

Emmie Maree I. Posada Magna Cum Laude BS Hotel and Restaurant Management Mary Lynn E. Sta. Prisca BS Accountancy Danelle Anne P. Tamaray BS Accountancy Angelica P. Tatlonghari BS Business Administration Alyssa Marie S. Teves BS Business Administration

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2019 SELECTED SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS HEALTH (SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOAL 6 ENSURE AVAILABILITY AND SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT OF WATER AND SANITATION FOR ALL) Network of Outstanding Teachers and Educators, Inc. (NOTED)

support ”Guro, Pulis at Sundalo na may Galing, Puso at Sigasig (GPS2)” project through the provision of 1,570 hygiene kits to benefit school children in four (4) temporary learning shelters in Marawi City

Radio Mindanao Network Foundation, Inc.

construction and installation of handwashing facilities and water tanks in five (5) schools in Zamboanga City, Pagadian City, and Cagayan De Oro City benefitting 7,648 students

World Vision Development Foundation, Inc.

construction and installation of handwashing facilities in four (4) schools in Siayan, Zamboanga del Norte benefitting 906 students

Union Church of Manila Philippines Foundation, Inc. (UCMPFI)

three-year non-tuition support for seven (7) students under the Grace Enough to Ensure Secondary Education (GEESE) program

University of the Philippines - Manila Ugnayan ng Pahinungód

support the conduct of the Teachers Development Program (TDP) benefitting 70 public school teachers from Orion, Bataan

Virlanie Foundation, Inc.

non-tuition educational assistance for 60 toddlers and preschoolers, out-of-school youth, and sexually and/or physically abused children, enrolled at the Magellan Learning Center in Makati City

Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation

provision of six (6) motorized boats and 60 self-paddle boats benefitting 791 schoolchildren in Bohol, Camarines Norte, Cebu, North Cotabato and Basilan who need to cross bodies of water to attend classes

ARTS HEALTH DU30 Cabinet Spouses Association, Inc.

support various social development projects which focus on promoting inclusive opportunities for marginalized communities in the areas of health, education, and social well-being, particularly medical-surgical missions in Benguet and the conduct of relief operations in times of natural and man-made disasters

Natasha Goulbourn Foundation, Inc.

support the training of peer facilitators through a buddy system that aims to manage depression and prevent suicide among the youth

Senate Spouses Foundation, Inc.

support programs that address the medical needs of elderly Filipinos and abandoned children, particularly the upgrading of facilities in various public hospitals in the country

PGH Medical Foundation, Inc.

procurement of medical equipment for the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) and provision of medical services to treat 2,000 cancer-stricken children

World Surgical Foundation, Inc.

support for surgical missions benefitting more than 250 patients who are in need of surgical interventions

EDUCATION (SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOAL 4 ENSURE INCLUSIVE AND EQUITABLE QUALITY EDUCATION AND PROMOTE LIFELONG LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL)

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Barangay Gumitan, Marilog District, Davao City

provision of two (2) motorized boats benefitting 1,219 students and indigents living in rural upland areas in Marilog District, Davao City

Bidlisiw Foundation, Inc.

educational assistance for 13 junior high school students facing various vulnerabilities from Metro Cebu and Camotes Island

Binhi English Literacy Foundation, Inc.

learning materials and program/development training to eight (8) teachers and 150 students under the Binhi English Literacy Program

Children of Asia, Inc.

non-tuition support such as school uniforms, books, transportation, allowances and other educational needs for 11 incoming Grade 11 students from Alegria, Cebu

Fellowship for Organizing Endeavors (FORGE), Inc.

non-tuition educational assistance to 50 junior high school students in the cities of Cebu and Lapu-Lapu under the Sexually Exploited and Urban Poor Children in Metro Cebu (EASE UP) program

Fr. Al's Children Foundation, Inc.

financial support for ten 10 indigent high school students in Silang, Cavite

HOPE Worldwide Philippines, Inc.

non-tuition financial support for ten 10 indigent senior high school students from Baseco, Manila; Payatas, Quezon City; Biñan, Laguna; National Housing Authority relocation site in Cabalawan, Tacloban City; Bagongbuhay, Ormoc City; and Daanbantayan, Cebu

Philippine Foundation for Science and Technology, Inc.

training and provision of Hands-On, Minds-On Microscale Chemistry (HOMOMICH) kits to 600 public school Chemistry teachers in Eastern Samar, Quezon, Bohol, Benguet, National Capital Region and Maguindanao from 2018 to 2020

Philippine Jesuit Prison Service Foundation, Inc. (PJPS)

non-tuition educational assistance to ten 10 children of Bilibid Prison inmates

METROBANK FOUNDATION, INC.

ArtPsych Circle Inc.

support “Pahingalayan ng Bayani,” a creative retreat for Filipino soldiers wounded-in-action admitted at V. Luna Hospital aimed at providing them a safe space and a peaceful respite from stress and anxiety through the use of different art modalities

Art Studies Foundation, Inc.

publication of the second edition of “Arkitekturang Filipino: A History of Architecture and Urbanism in the Philippines”

International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS Philippines)

support the participation of five (5) cultural workers to a photogrammetry course facilitated

by Comite International de la Photogrammetrie Architecturale held from September 15 to 22, 2019

Plotting Points 2019

support Plotting Points 2019, the biannual Philippine museums summit with the theme "Museums for the Future: Connections, Interpretation, and Impact" attended by 150 museum professionals, cultural workers and other stakeholders

University of Santo Tomas Museum

sponsor 2019 UST Annual Inter-School On-the-Spot Painting Competition held from February 15 to February 28, 2019 at the University of Santo Tomas.

Visayas Islands Visual Arts Exhibition and Conference (VIVA ExCon)

support 2019 VIVA ExCon held in Capiz, featuring exhibitions and lectures that showcased the contemporary works of visual artists in the Visayas region

Mr. Dave Alcon, 2019 MADE Special Citation, Oil/Acrylic on Canvas category

support for his first solo exhibition “Beyond Comfort Zone” at Boston Art Gallery in Quezon City to be held this 2020

Mr. Darby Vincent Alcoseba, 2013 MADE Grand Prize, Watermedia on Paper category

support for his first one-man exhibit “Brooding About Singer Sargent” which ran from March 23 to April 22, 2019 at Altro Mondo Gallery in Makati City.

Mr. Francis Eugene Andrade, 2018 MADE Special Citation, Oil/Acrylic on Canvas category

support for his first solo exhibit “Slaughter House” which ran from July 13 to August 6, 2019 at Eskinita Gallery in Makati City

Mr. Noel Elicana, 2018 MADE Grand Prize, Oil / Acrylic on Canvas category

support for his first solo exhibition “Tayhop” which ran from December 14 to January 16, 2020 at the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA) Casa de Emperador Festive Walk Parade, Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

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LIVELIHOOD (SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOAL 1 - END POVERTY IN ALL ITS FORMS EVERYWHERE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOAL 2 END HUNGER AND ACHIEVE FOOD SECURITY AND IMPROVED NUTRITION AND PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE) Caritas Margins

support the entrepreneurial skills trainings of 300 individuals from select communities in NCR and CALABARZON, including product development coaching for its current partner micro-enterprises and the improvement of some of its current stores and kiosks

Community Transformation Movement, Inc.

provision of basic needs for 100 Aeta and Dumagat families from Nueva Ecija and Sierra Madre

Congressional Spouses Foundation, Inc. (CSFI)

support charity projects such as calamity assistance, livelihood projects, and Christmas gift giving activities for auxiliary staff of the Congress

Hineleban Foundation, Inc.

support comprehensive end-to-end coffee farmer development program for 150 Indigenous Peoples (IPs) coffee farmers in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, integrating cultural practices and traditions as well as values formation for their capacity building programs and technical training

MicroVentures Foundation, Inc. (Hapinoy)

support Samahang Hapinoy Business Friends Forever or BFF training program creating a sustained and organized network of peer support groups among 1,000 Hapinoy store owners from NCR, Leyte, and Samar

Rags2Riches, Inc. (R2R)

provision of training materials and artisan mentor fees for “Next Generation Artisan,” covering trainings on embroidery, beadwork, and basic to advanced sewing of bags and clothes, benefitting 60 master artisans and 200 home-based artisans

GOOD GOVERNANCE Institute for Solidarity in Asia (ISA)

support transformation programs in the government sector, particularly the implementation and dissemination of the Performance Governance System (PGS)

OTHER ADVOCACIES Manila Cathedral

support for the musical “Magnificat,” a fund-raising event for the maintenance and repair of the Pipe Organ and support to the music ministry of the Manila Cathedral, benefitting 2,500 individuals, mostly young people

DISASTER RESPONSE

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Alagang Kapatid Foundation, Inc.

food packs, hygiene kits and other items to help 1,915 families affected by the earthquake in Batanes and typhoon Tisoy in Sorsogon, Samar, Albay, and Cagayan

Office of Civil Defense

1,000 retractable tents for families affected by the earthquake in Cotabato City

METROBANK FOUNDATION, INC.

OFFICERS & STAFF President Aniceto M. Sobrepeña Executive Director Nicanor L. Torres, Jr. Assistant Executive Director Irene D. Labitad Education Unit Joyce Dyan A. Tee Allan A. Reyes Dang R. Red Bernadette O. Moldera Excellence Awards Unit Hero S. Hernandez Kristal T. Todcor Reginald H. Baticulon Ernest Kiel R. Macapagal Charmee Mea F. Mariano Art & Design Unit Louise Lane A. Calicdan Kristina Marie P. Sablayan Nicole Anne M. Dorig Therese Bernadette S. Macaraig

Grants & Healthcare Unit Marievic G. Mariano Rahib Hadji S. Abdullah Aileen F. Duran Maria Carizza L. Anticamara GT Foundation, Inc. Philip Jay M. Pronstroller Normita B. Ureta Marla Angeli S. Dator Lilac C. Lazaro Bryan James J. Sudaria Liezel V. Abriol Administrative & HROD Unit Victoria C. Macahilig Ma. Louise G. Consulta Sheila Mae T. Villas

Research & Publications Unit Karla Camille N. Ruiz Finance Services Unit Crisanto D. Suratos John France A. Mariano Joelle Joyce C. Adia Office of the President Janice G. Gellada

Photography: Veejay Jimenez Venue: Bonifacio Naval Station, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Creatives: Studio 5 Designs, Inc.

Corporate Communications Unit Christopher L. Bugaoan Almira Joyce V. Valencia Laarnie T. Luna Paul John V. Domalaon Warlou Joyce S. Antonio

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10F, Annex Bldg., Metrobank Plaza, Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., 1200 Makati City, Philippines Telephone Nos.: (+632) 8898-8095 / (+632) 8898-8855 Telefax Nos.: (+632) 8818-5656 Email: foundation@metrobank.com.ph www.mbfoundation.org.ph

Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/MetrobankFoundation

Follow us on Instagram: @MetrobankFoundation

Follow us on Twitter: @MetrobankFound

Watch us on Youtube: MetrobankFoundation

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METROBANK FOUNDATION, INC.