Cavite youth to benefit from 'Kariton Revolution'

MANILA, Philippines - About 500 poor children will have access to knowledge because of the “Kariton Revolution” project launched yesterday in Cavite by CNN 2009 Hero of the Year Efren Peñaflorida and his partners.

Remy Ordonez, coordinator of the project, said most of the young beneficiaries come from the most depressed communities in Cavite City.

The project, which aims to educate children who lack access to formal education, was launched at the Ladislao Diwa Elementary School in Cavite City.

The project has the support of the Cavite City government, the Sangguniang Kabataan (youth council), the local tourism council, the Department of Education, and the Philippine Fleet of the Philippine Navy.

Lt. Junior Grade Rommel Rodriguez, deputy public affairs chief of the Philippine Fleet, said 20 Navy personnel helped build three wooden carts (kariton) filled with books, miniatures and other educational materials.

He said the project aims to promote volunteerism, instill the importance of education among the youth, and discourage the youth from joining gangs.

Cavite City Mayor Romeo Ramos said the project would also support their advocacies on education, the youth, health, peace and order, history and culture, and livelihood.

Rear Admiral Jose Luis Alano, commander of the Philippine Fleet, said his troops joined the project to share their experiences to the youth.