‘Ate and Kuya for a Day’ was an unforgettable experience for the employees and the children they bonded withFirst Gen Corporation’s Em POWER core team brought community and compassion to life through “Ate and Kuya for a Day,” an employee volunteerism activity held at Village of Hope in Morong, Rizal, on April 26, 2025. 

Volunteers from First Gen, First Philippine Holdings Corporation, Pi Energy and First Balfour spent a morning filled with games, laughter and stories with 100 children. They also raised P56,500 in donations, which went toward providing hygiene kits, rice, food items, milk and diapers.

A total of 64 employees volunteered and donated to the “Ate and Kuya for a Day” event.

The activity was a reminder that sometimes, the greatest gift we can offer is our presence and kindness.

“My heart truly goes out to the children at the orphanage, and I’m grateful to First Gen for giving its employees the opportunity to be their ate and kuya for a day. The simple games and gifts we shared with the kids of Village of Hope may seem like small gestures, but I hope, even for a moment, they felt seen, valued and loved—just like any other child,” billing specialist Kit Gimena shared.

Jernel Pateña, senior specialist engineer, added: “I had a truly wonderful time being a kuya to the kids at Village of Hope. Guiding them through the games and witnessing their joy was a heartwarming experience I won’t soon forget.”

“Their innocence and cheerful energy reminded me that life is meant to be simple, joyful and full of blessings. What made the experience even more meaningful was the opportunity to make them feel seen, valued and included—not just as individuals but as part of a community, part of our company and, most importantly, part of a family,” said project development engineer Keihl James Valencia.

Village of Hope, operated by Vision Help International Care Foundation, provides a safe and nurturing environment for children and teenagers who are abandoned, orphaned or temporarily separated from their families.

(Story by: Dianne Datu)