MANILA, Philippines - Celebrity host Boy Abunda has always made well-known his great affection and devotion to his Nanay Lesing. The proverbial hand that rocked his cradle gave him the inspiration to overcome hardship and to achieve his big dreams.
For the quintessential talk show host, Nanay Lesing is a great example of how a mother’s love can move mountains and bring about positive results.
This is why Abunda decided to organize “Make Your Nanay Proud” (MYNP), a civic organization of Filipinos who love their mothers and who want to honor them by helping themselves, others, their communities and the country. Its mission: “To Make Your Nanay Proud by being the best of who you are and by being the best in all you do.”
Announced last Dec. 11 at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel, MYNP is a cause that Abunda feels very strongly for, and the TV host is grateful that it has already gained the support of various private companies as well as government agencies. With him as chairman and founder, Abunda has gathered a council of advisers for MYNP made up of big names from the media and business sectors.
As a nationwide organization, MYNP is tapping families in key cities to operate semi-autonomously from the executive committee, and keep the organization active. Everyone is encouraged to join.
MYNP has lined up various initiatives beginning next year, including its formal launch slated aptly on Mother’s Day.
Apart from conducting community engagement activities, MYNP plans to publish a book, “How Do You Love Your Nanay.” build a place called “Bahay ni Nanay” which will double as a museum and as a venue where children can reconnect with their mothers; hold MYNP recognition awards for mothers and their children; and promote micro-entrepreneurship among mothers through Tindahan ni Nanay in partnership with Puregold.
Likewise, MYNP will advocate maternal health and well-being, support for abandoned mothers and children, and livelihood enhancement.