Far from the past celebrations that Payatas Orione Foundation, Inc. (PAOFI) used to pull off during its founding anniversary, the organization settled for a simpler and more exclusive ceremony this year.

With the theme, “Overcoming Challenges and Sustaining Charitable Works Amidst Pandemic”, PAOFI celebrated its 14th founding anniversary in a solemn Thanksgiving Mass at the Mother of Divine Providence Parish last March 13, 2021. 

The event was attended by selected staff and volunteers of PAOFI. Implementation of safety health protocols were strictly observed throughout the mass. The attendees were also handed out with breakfast at the end of the event. Those who were not able to join the mass physically had a chance to still be part of the celebration through the event’s Facebook Livestream. 

PAOFI’s Thanksgiving Mass was led by the Mother of Divine Providence Parish Priest, Fr. John Castillo, FDP. His homily gave emphasis to the joy of gratefulness. Being able to receive and share blessings in the midst of a global crisis is such a big thing to be thankful for. He also shared the inspiring story of St. Luigi Orione, Patron Saint of PAOFI, and his undying generosity to the poor. 

Videos of PAOFI’s journey for the past year were shown after the holy mass. In the video, PAOFI showed how they cope up with the challenges brought by the pandemic while still delivering services to the beneficiaries through its Nutrition, Education, and Health Programs. 

Undeterred by the chaotic turn of events brought by the pandemic, PAOFI still managed to provide services to its beneficiaries. Stricter regulations and the fear of being infected by the virus were the biggest hindrances faced by the staff and volunteers of PAOFI. Fortunately, the foundation’s core value of helping the most unfortunate souls paved its way against the pandemic.

The event was ended by a message from PAOFI’s Executive Director, Fr. Bernardo Seo, FDP. He thanked everyone who have been part of PAOFI’s challenging journey in providing charitable services in spite of the dangers caused by the ongoing pandemic. He also reminded everyone that these challenges shall pass. He added that we should not fear the inevitable because God is always with us. 

It is true that no matter how gloomy we have been during this crisis, the Almighty Creator will always find ways to shed light against the darkness that caved in. PAOFI had been a constant instrument of God helping the poor and people in need within the Payatas and nearby communities. The foundation’s desire to lend a helping hand to the people truly overpowered the hazards of the pandemic. 

PAOFI’s stories of survival on this rampant jeopardy will not be possible if not with the help of its staff, volunteers, and sponsors. The hardworking people behind the foundation contribute a lot in providing constant services to the beneficiaries. Their bravery in facing the infectious disease in order to continuously reach out to the most unfortunate members of the community is greatly admirable.

Likewise, the generosity of PAOFI’s sponsors is immensely remarkable in these challenging times. Their unwavering support and love to the beneficiaries by means of donations are what fueled the Foundation to carry on with its advocacy. We at PAOFI are extremely thankful to these people who never turned their backs away to the foundation’s call for charity and never get tired in supporting PAOFI’s mission. 

Written By Verna Mae Divina (PAOFI Scholar)