MANILA, Philippines - The devastation of homes and property brought by typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng has aroused inspiring acts of heroism, charity, and bayanihan in every Filipino, reminiscent of a past that has displayed courage and tenacity during difficult times. These same attributes are showcased by the Kaya ng Pinoy Foundation through its project called “Voyage of the Balangay.”
An ancient sea vessel used by migrants from mainland Asia as early as 320 A.D., the Balangay holds a venerable place in Philippine history. After all, once upon a time it was the only means of transportation around the archipelago, vital in trade and even in warfare. The “Voyage of the Balangay” will retrace the migration of Filipino ancestors across oceans.
Such a grand and ambitious project requires utmost support from kindred souls who believe that the “Voyage of the Balangay” is a journey worth accomplishing. Behind the majestic hulls lie the quiet yet fierce support of individuals and corporations who share the vision of a nation that values its past. Among the winds propelling the Balangay’s colorful sails is TAO Corp. and its community of distribution companies whose officers and employees have adopted the ancestral boat as their inspiration and source of pride.
The arrival of the Balangay on the shores of TAO Corp. was by itself a story worth telling. In one of the company’s monthly Breakfast of Champions, Team Everest founder Art Valdez was invited by TAO Corp. founder and president Julio Sy Jr. to motivate his colleagues to conquer seemingly insurmountable challenges. Soon, Valdez was weaving another extraordinary tale of sea adventure in front of a mesmerized and captured audience. Every member of TAO Corp. got on board, knowing that by stirring historical pride and consciousness, the Balangay could inspire Filipinos to regain focus amidst political, economic, and social upheavals.
Indeed, sheer inspiration was enough for TAO Corp. to embrace the Balangay’s vision as its employees actively participated in the different milestones that culminated in the boat’s venture into the open seas. Launched in Manila Bay last September, the avid patrons prayed for good weather and smooth sailing for the team. “For the TAO family, the Balangay is now a symbol of unity, courage, and determination,” said Sy.
The community building efforts include coastal clean-ups, medical missions, and various seminars to the youth about the Balangay’s voyage and its lessons of nationhood. In fact, when two strong typhoons hit the country in a span of one week, the Balangay team conducted a disaster management course among the Boracay Island Disaster Reaction Team. During its stay on the island, the team led a tree-planting activity and inducted several students as junior coastal watchers of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.
And through the journey, TAO Corp. will not only provide financial assistance but will also help ensure the continuous flow of supplies while maintaining public interest to what could be the grandest and the most profound maritime voyage ever made in this generation.