FPRMFI's Kids Hope Project 2025 at Cabua-an, Maddela, Quirino: A Celebration of Service and Generosity
By: Rochel Gaffud
November 2, 2025 — The spirit of compassion and community came alive at Kaboa-an Elementary School as the Florentino Pascual Ruiz Memorial Foundation, Inc. (FPRMFI) launched its yearly Kids Hope Project. The meaningful event gathered teachers, parents, alumni, local officials, and pupils in a shared celebration of hope, service, and giving back.
The program began with an opening prayer led by Esperanza L. Buyuccan, followed by the singing of the National Anthem by Junia T. Dinamling. In his warm opening remarks, Hon. Walter B. Buyuccan, Barangay Captain, expressed his gratitude to the foundation for choosing Kaboa-an Elementary School as one of its beneficiaries. Meanwhile, Melinda C. Garpida, the School Head, also acknowledged the guests, partners, and supporters who made the event possible.
Adding color and cultural pride to the celebration, selected pupils performed an Ifugao cultural dance, which delighted everyone with their energy and talent.
During the “Message and Inspiration” segment, Eugenia D. Dupingay, SPTA President, delivered a heartfelt message of appreciation to FPRMFI. She expressed, “We want to express how grateful we are because this will not only help children but also empower them to strive.” Her words echoed the collective gratitude of the parents and teachers who witnessed how the event inspired both pupils and the community.
Furthermore, Hon. Dante A. Belingon, representing the Committee on Education, also lauded the foundation’s mission of empowering children through acts of generosity and care. He stated that projects like this nurture both education and character.
The program was graced by distinguished guests and alumni, including Fr. Frayne Lumidao, and Mr. Reynor Raymundo who now serves as the Administrator of FPRMFI. Their presence served as an inspiration to the pupils — a symbol of how former students can give back and uplift where they came from.
Also in attendance was Mr. Elorman Ruiz, duly representing the Chairman Emeritus, Annolouiz Ruiz, whose enduring leadership and advocacy for service continue to guide the foundation’s mission. His presence reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to sustaining its legacy of compassion and community involvement.
A highlight of the day was the presentation of the Kids Hope Project led by Harlem C. Ruiz, Foundation President. He shared an overview of the organization’s ongoing outreach efforts. The main activities included the distribution of school bags, supplies, slippers, Jollibee meals and gifts — simple yet meaningful things that brought smiles and excitement to the children.
These acts of generosity reflected the foundation’s guiding tagline, “Service before Self, the Legacy Continues.” The event emphasized that true service is not just about giving material aid but also about inspiring hope, gratitude, and a sense of community.
The program concluded with a closing message from Hon. Nelson D. Dulnuan, SPTA Vice-President, and a closing prayer by Dolores B. Pillaan, SPTA Member. The event was smoothly hosted by Geralda B. Matidio, who kept the program lively and well-organized from start to finish.
As the celebration came to a close, the laughter and joy of children filled the venue — a lasting reminder that acts of kindness can build bridges of hope and strengthen the bonds of community for generations to come.
About the Author:
Is a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science student at Saint Mary’s University and a scholar of FPRMFI. She was a member of The Herald, the official student publication of Maddela Comprehensive High School, for four years and is currently active in the Saint Mary’s University Debate Society and serving as the 1st Year Political Science Representative for the Marian Allied in Philosophy and Social Sciences. A firm believer that “Writing is the art of giving silence a voice, and change a chance.” She advocates that every voice matters —each equally deserving of space, value, and freedom.