Doing good by dining well
MANILA, Philippines - Yes, it is pos-sible to contribute to a good cause simply by dining out. From Aug. 13 to 20, 10 percent of revenue from specially selected menus or dishes served at 64 of the finest dining destinations in Metro Manila will go to a worthy cause.
“Our goal is to raise P1million for Hands On Manila,” says Irene Martel Francisco, managing director of the Philippine Tatler and The Philippines’ Best Restaurants publications. She explains that in lieu of a cocktail reception to launch the seventh edition of The Philippines’ Best Restaurants guide, they opted to hold the first “Best Restaurants Charity Week” instead. This year’s guide includes a precise listing and review of 151 of the best local restaurants in the country. Of these, 64 will participate in the charity week fund drive. “The 10 percent of sales from selected menus will surely make a difference in the lives we touch,” says Martel.
The amount raised will go to Galing Mo Kid (GMK), a program for public school students. This is a mentorship project of the volunteer, non-profit volunteer organization Hands On Manila, to further enhance the learning potential of high-achieving students in four subject areas: Science, Math, English and Civics. In addition, the GMK program seeks to enhance the kids’ leadership skills, creativity, and cognitive skills; and to develop values such as love for the country, honesty, and integrity. Every year, 30 students are chosen. They come from three pilot schools that include Nueve de Febrero Elementary School, Plainview Elementary School in Mandaluyong, and Pembo Elementary School in Makati.
“The goal is to form a program where students will be mentored and tracked over a period of three years,” says Wynn Wynn Ong, president of Hands on Manila. Apart from the academic programs, the GMK pupils were encouraged to present business proposals and set up small businesses funded by Hands On Manila during the summer break. “The success of the program is tangible; the students paid back,” continues Ong. “We have seen that those young people are able to assume responsibility and leadership roles.”
American Express is a vital partner for the Best Restaurants Charity Week project. A program called American Express Selects is designed to offer special privileges worldwide to American Express card members. It complements the Philippines’ Best Restaurants as this highlights the finest in local dining. Ma. Nanette Regala, Banco de Oro Consumer Lending Group head says, “This initiative endeavors to provide deserving but financially challenged young people to ensure that they are able to reach their full potential in learning.”
Indeed, the Best Restaurants Charity Week project is a delicious way to make your meal count in a good way.
For a complete list of participating restaurants, visit luxedining.com and click Best Restaurants Charity Week.
