There's Joy in service

MANILA, Philippines - As I approached Joy Belmonte’s headquarters, a middle-aged woman came up to    me and said: “Si Maam Joy po ang hinahanap nyo?” (You’re looking for Maam Joy?) “Batang-bata po siya, napakaganda, mabait, laging nakangiti.” (She’s very young, very beautiful, kind and always smiling.) The woman went on, “Hihi-ngi po ako uli ng tulong sa kanya, may sakit naman ngayon ang isang anak ko.” (I’ll ask her help again, my other child is sick.)

Joy is always ready to serve — a way of life she has grown up with, following the footsteps of her parents — the late Betty Go Belmonte and incumbent Quezon City Mayor Feliciano (SB) Belmonte Jr.

A fitting tribute to celebrate International Women’s month, Joy talked about women empowerment in the city, through the Ilaw ng Bayan, Quezon City Ladies Performing Arts Development and the Husay Pinay Foundations — all designed to let residents   venture on various economically productive projects and endeavors. This women’s activity has drawn over 1,500 of them, enhancing women’s contribution to the progress of the city.

But children and the youth are foremost in Joy’s agenda. “We talk here of the essence of quality in education, locally and globally,” she said. “I learned from Dad that the best barometer of collective education and culture is internal communication and I believe him so,” Joy enthused.

“Along with sharing vital information quickly and honestly, leaders must also be skillful at listening in order to create a certain degree of bonding,” she said.

“In the name of service to Quezon City, I’m hitting the ball harder than anyone else in the women’s division,” Joy narrated.

Joy takes on a unique approach in giving service to the poorest — an approach she said is innate in her. Always in the service of the people, Joy led all the QC women’s groups in rescue and relief operations which earned her further the distinction of being a dedicated public servant.

As chairperson of the social development committee of the QC Development Council, she organizes medical and dental missions which serve close to 10,000 beneficiaries in various parts of the city.

In partnership with other government agencies and LGUs she was able to provide alternative livelihood to 6,147 residents, provide employment to 2,283 people through bridging programs and grant short-term courses to 794 scholars.  

Joy’s Husay Pinoy program aims to strengthen barangays to become self-reliant district by producing eco-friendly products like bags and other items made of recyclable materials.

As early as 17, Joy first joined the Jesuit volunteer program reaching out to underprivileged families. She had reached far-flung areas in Mindanao (Bukidnon), stayed there for over a year — truly “a man for others,” she said. She was well-liked by the Tausogs because of her dedication and sincerity in helping and dealing with them.