Gawad Kalinga holds benefit for Mindanao

MANILA, Philippines - The GK Hope Ball, organized with the support of Lifestyle Asia, Rustan’s and The Peninsula Manila, will be held for the benefit of marginalized communities in Mindanao. The event brings together like-minded companies, groups and individuals who want to make a contribution towards peace in Southern Philippines. There is hope rising in Panamao as Christians and Muslims work shoulder-to-shoulder to build homes. The area in the heart of Sulu has the highest incidence of conflict in Mindanao. Clan feuds and tensions between government forces and the Moro National Liberation Front have resulted in constant displacement, loss of lives and property, hampered delivery of basic services and high illiteracy. Amid the strife, families are replacing the sound of gunfire with hammers pounding nails. They are working with Gawad Kalinga to build a haven of peace. This is the first GK project that has Christians and Muslims working side by side to construct houses in the Panamao Hope GK village. “There is a vivid image of the prophet Isaiah’s words that comes to mind,” Lifestyle Asia editor in chief Anna Sobrepeña says. “Swords will be beaten in plowshares … and men will not learn war again.” Through contributions and participation in the auction, there will be another family who will have a roof over their heads and a child who will grow up in a secure home. To participate, contact Cat Turingan at 0917-891-7109 or e-mail gkhopeball@gkworld.com. In photo are (from left) Webber Shandwick’s Yvonne Policarpio, Salcedo Auctions’ Karen Lerma, Chateau Siran’s Edouard Miailhe, GK Hope Ball honorary chairman Tony Meloto, chairman Beliz Crook, Lifestyle Asia editor in chief Anna Sobrepeña, Rustan’s Dina Tantoco, Peninsula Manila GM Sonja Vodasek, and Cats Motors’ Emy Arcilla.