UPDATES

Street and Urban Working Children (SUWC), one of the core educational programs of the Ernesto Asay Yu Foundation, continues to uphold its mission of supporting the holistic development of scholars through consistent and meaningful activities throughout the year.

To start, SUWC scholars benefited from monthly meetings held throughout 2025. These regular gatherings served as a platform to check on the scholars’ academic progress, provide guidance and mentorship, and foster a strong sense of community among the students. These meetings were vital in maintaining open communication between the scholars, their parents, and the EAYF staff, ensuring each scholar receives the support they need across the school year.

On June 28, 2025, SUWC organized its annual school supplies distribution at Peoples’ Hall, Talisay City Hall. Scholars from Junior High to Senior High, along with their parents, attended the event. The program began with a prayer and warm welcome remarks by EAYF staff, setting a positive and inspiring tone. The distribution included essential items such as school shoes, bags, PE shirts, and other academic supplies—thoughtfully prepared and distributed based on each scholar’s year level. More than just handing out materials, the event was a celebration of support and encouragement for the scholars, many of whom expressed gratitude for the assistance that helped ease the financial burden of the new school year. A group photo capped off the event, capturing the smiles and shared joy of the SUWC community.

Earlier that summer, on May 24, 2025, SUWC held a leadership workshop titled “In My Leadership Era: Developing Confidence, Critical Thinking, and Team Management Skills for Effective Leadership” at Talisay City Hall, CSWD Building. Spearheaded by EAYF college scholars, the workshop aimed to develop leadership potential among 26 Junior High SUWC scholars. Guest speaker Ms. Lucrece Gian Mae Lausa—an active student leader from Cebu Normal University and Cebu Youth Ambassadors—delivered an inspiring and interactive session on the qualities of an effective leader. Her message, “Not all leaders have confidence, but all leaders have courage,” resonated strongly with the participants. The second half of the workshop featured engaging games and activities designed to build team spirit and practical leadership skills. The day concluded with feedback sharing, distribution of food and souvenirs, and a sense of empowerment among the young participants.

Additionally, on May 17, 2025, SUWC scholars gathered at the Talisay Livelihood Training Center for a summer workshop focused on team building and fun. The day began with a short briefing, followed by a series of traditional Filipino games such as the slipper game, “labo-labo” (dodgeball), patintero, sack race, tug-of-war, and jump rope. Scholars shared a meal through a boodle fight, reinforcing the communal and inclusive spirit of the day. In the afternoon, the group played “Paint Me a Picture,” a game aimed at enhancing teamwork and critical thinking. Prizes, certificates, and a photo opportunity concluded the event. This workshop provided the scholars with a much-needed break from academics while strengthening friendships and collaborative skill.

Altogether, the SUWC program’s activities in 2025 reflect the Ernesto Asay Yu Foundation’s commitment to nurturing not just academic success, but also leadership, personal growth, and strong community ties among Street and Urban Working Children.

In 2025, the foundation has continued its commitment to environmental sustainability through the rehabilitation and maintenance of a 3-hectare bamboo plantation located in Barangay Sunog, Balamban, Cebu. This site was initially planted between 2022 and 2024 under the foundation's reforestation initiative, in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Cebu and BUKID Multipurpose Cooperative (MPC).

To ensure the survival and healthy development of the bamboo stands, monitoring and maintenance activities were conducted during the 1st and 2nd quarters of 2025, specifically on March 19 and June 24. These efforts focused on the continuous protection and care of the bamboo planted on previously rehabilitated areas from the 2011–2013 MPEP (Mangrove and Protected Area Enhancement Program), which also covers a total area of 3.0 hectares.

The latest progress report—released by DENR-CENRO Cebu on February 28, 2025, and officially prepared by the assigned Forest Extension Officer and approved by the Chief COS/NGP Coordinator—details the survival rate and specific maintenance activities conducted across the plantation zones.

Looking ahead, the foundation will proceed with 3rd and 4th quarter maintenance operations, which will include the installation of official site markers to clearly identify and protect the established bamboo plantation areas.

This initiative represents the foundation’s ongoing mission to support long-term forest rehabilitation, climate resilience, and community partnership through sustainable agroforestry.

For 2025, the Brigada Eskwela Project was strategically decentralized and implemented through various Mactan Rural Bank (MRB) branches, each partnering with a selected public school in their respective communities. This initiative aimed to enhance the learning environment and support public education through material donations and infrastructure improvements.

In total, 13 public schools across multiple regions benefited from the project, with contributions tailored to the specific needs of each institution. Below is a summary of the MRB branches and their corresponding partner schools:

This collective effort reflects the foundation’s continued advocacy for accessible, quality education and its commitment to community development through its network of branches.

The Beauty Care and Hairdressing Livelihood Training is an ongoing initiative of the Ernesto Asay Yu Foundation (EAYF), aimed at equipping individuals—especially parents and unemployed community members—with practical skills for sustainable employment.

In the first quarter of 2025, the foundation continued its efforts with 15 participants from Barangay Linao, Talisay City, Cebu. Over the course of two months, participants engaged in hands-on training and on-the-job servicing, culminating in a graduation ceremony held on July 15, 2025, at Lagtang Gym, Talisay City.

The second batch of training for the year, conducted in partnership with ICCP Foundation, ran from June 30 to July 18, 2025. The 10-day full-day sessions were held at the ICCP Foundation Office in Cebu Industrial Park, Lapu-Lapu City, followed by a 5-day training at the Talisay Livelihood TechVoc Center. Like the first batch, this round included 15 participants, most of whom were parents with no stable income.

ICCP Foundation will also be facilitating the participants’ NCII assessment through TESDA. As of now, two out of three scheduled batches for 2025 have been completed. The third batch will be implemented in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Cebu West.

This ongoing livelihood program reflects EAYF’s commitment to empowering communities through practical, skills-based education. By providing opportunities for economic independence, the foundation continues to pave the way for a more self-reliant and hopeful future for its beneficiaries—one training at a time.

The Brigada Eskwela project is a key initiative under the Education Program of the Ernesto Asay Yu Foundation, Inc. Since 2012, this program has supported schools in preparing for the upcoming academic year by mobilizing resources and manpower to repair, clean, and improve learning environments. Brigada Eskwela reflects the foundation's commitment to fostering better education through community involvement and collaboration.

Initially envisioned as a group-wide project involving all branches of the Mister Yu Group of Companies (MYGC), this year’s implementation focused on 14 schools, with support from 10 branches of Mactan Rural Bank. See table below:

A vital strategy in the project’s success is the activation of volunteers, primarily staff members, to assist in the implementation of Brigada Eskwela. This approach not only ensures the program’s efficiency but also strengthens relationships and enhances the company’s image within the community. By participating, volunteers gain a deeper understanding of the foundation’s role within MYGC, promoting a shared sense of purpose and social responsibility.

Through Brigada Eskwela, the Ernesto Asay Yu Foundation, Inc. continues to make a significant impact on education by improving school facilities and fostering a culture of collaboration and volunteerism.

The TechVoc Program is the flagship initiative of the Ernesto Asay Yu Foundation, Inc. in terms of scholarships. Launched in 2012, this program provides opportunities for out-of-school youth, primarily males, to enroll in short-term professional courses designed to equip them with practical skills for employment. These courses include Machining, Welding, Wood Carpentry, and Small Engine Mechanics.

The program is implemented in partnership with TESDA and Don Bosco, ensuring a high standard of training and education. In 2024, Don Bosco Labangon hosted the program, which follows a training duration of one year and two months. A unique aspect of the program is its partnership with industries, primarily located in the surrounding communities and cities of Don Bosco. This collaboration ensures that students gain hands-on experience and a direct path to employment.

This year, 9 out of 10 students successfully completed the program and are scheduled for the NCII Assessment. Remarkably, all graduates have already been absorbed and employed by partner companies, showcasing the program's effectiveness in bridging the gap between education and employment.

In recent years, the foundation has focused on Small Engine Mechanics as the primary course, recognizing its relevance and demand in today’s industry. The TechVoc Program continues to empower youth by providing them with the skills and opportunities needed to build a sustainable and productive future.

The School Bags and Supplies Distribution project is a significant initiative under the Education Component Program of the Ernesto Asay Yu Foundation, Inc. Alongside programs like Brigada Eskwela, SUWC, and TechVoc, this project aims to address the barriers to education faced by underprivileged children. By providing essential school supplies at the start of the academic year, the foundation seeks to reduce dropout rates and improve students' motivation to attend school regularly.

In 2024, the project reached new heights with the support of the Rotary Club of Cebu West and the participation of several branches of the Mister Yu Group of Companies. Each branch represented different schools in their respective areas, distributing sturdy school bags filled with basic school supplies to 100 indigent children per branch. The total number of branches and their respective areas: (Shown in the table below)

This initiative underscores the foundation's belief that lack of educational materials is a significant hurdle for many children. By addressing this issue, the foundation helps ensure that more children are equipped and encouraged to continue their education, fostering a brighter future for the next generation.

The Feeding Project is a vital initiative under the Primary Health and Childcare Program of the Ernesto Asay Yu Foundation, Inc. This annual project addresses malnutrition by providing severely wasted children with nutritious meals and continuous health monitoring.

In 2024, the Feeding Project was implemented over six weeks, running from Monday to Friday, during which beneficiaries received one healthy meal daily. The program benefited 200 children from two separate schools: Sawang Calero Elementary School and Tayud Elementary School in Consolacion, Cebu, with 100 children from each school receiving much-needed support.

The project culminated in two special ceremonies to celebrate its success: on December 11, 2024, at Tayud Elementary School, and on December 19, 2024, at Sawang Calero Elementary School. Regular health monitoring during the program revealed notable improvements in the children's weight, reflecting the positive impact of the initiative.

Through this Feeding Project, the Ernesto Asay Yu Foundation, Inc. continues its commitment to promoting child health and combating malnutrition, fostering a brighter and healthier future for vulnerable communities.

The Ernesto Asay Yu Foundation, Inc. proudly forged a new partnership in 2024 with the Rotary Club of Cebu West, under the leadership of its president, Sir Ben Yu. The Rotary Club of Cebu West, a distinguished service organization committed to addressing community needs through impactful projects, joined hands with the foundation to support its mission of uplifting lives and fostering community development.

This collaboration marked the foundation's first-ever partnership scheme, establishing a 50/50 resource-sharing agreement. It aimed to pool expertise and support for implementing projects that address the needs of underserved communities. The partnership focused on two key initiatives: the Hairdressing and Beauty Care seminar under the Livelihood Program and the School Bags and Supplies Distribution project under the Education Program.

As a result of this collaboration, 100 indigent children from Sibugay Integrated School received essential school supplies, ensuring they are better prepared for their educational journey. Additionally, 15 out-of-school youth and unemployed adults benefitted from the Hairdressing and Beauty Care seminar, gaining valuable skills that empower them to pursue sustainable livelihoods.

The partnership with the Rotary Club of Cebu West represents a milestone for the foundation as it seeks to collaborate with like-minded organizations to broaden its reach and amplify its impact on the community.

The Livelihood Program is one of the cornerstone initiatives of the Ernesto Asay Yu Foundation, Inc., aimed at empowering individuals with practical skills and knowledge to secure sustainable livelihoods and improve their quality of life. This program reflects the foundation's commitment to creating opportunities for underprivileged communities and fostering self-reliance.

In 2024, the Livelihood Program achieved significant milestones. Three sessions were conducted in Calamba, Cebu; San Roque, Talisay; and Lagtang, Talisay, with each session spanning 240 hours. These sessions were made possible through partnerships with TESDA and CSWD Talisay. A total of 18 participants from the 1st batch, 15 from the 2nd batch, and 18 from the 3rd batch successfully graduated in November 2024.

Another session, organized with the help of the Rotary Club of Cebu West, was held for 15 participants. This session culminated in a graduation ceremony on December 16, 2024. A notable accomplishment of the program was that all participants from the sessions passed the NCII Assessment, receiving TESDA NCII certifications in Hairdressing and Beauty Care. These certifications provide participants with professional opportunities, equipping them with skills to build a better future.

Through the Livelihood Program, the Ernesto Asay Yu Foundation, Inc. continues to make a meaningful impact, empowering communities and promoting sustainable development.

- Fritzie Ann Mangubat -

The Ernesto "Asay" Yu Foundation, Inc. (EAYFI) held a bamboo plantation activity in Barangay Sunog, Balamban, Cebu. Spearhead by the EAYFI with the cooperation of DENR-Cebu City and Bukid Multi-purpose Cooperative.

This project aims to restore and foster environmental sustainability. It also promotes environmental conservation and encourages everyone, especially the younger generation, to maintain and protect our environment. It also promotes volunteerism and enhances their understanding of taking care of our Mother Earth. The project involves the planting of 204 bamboo shoots of different species. Before we started planting the bamboo shoots, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) representative, Arnel Lupian demonstrated the proper planting of the bamboo shoots and The Barangay Captain of Sunog Balamban Jose Bebelonio Pepito Sr., discuss the importance and benefits of the bamboo tree to all participants. More than 204 bamboo shoots with different species such as golden bamboo, Japanese bamboo and etc.

This activity participated by EAYFI Staff, MRB-HO, MRB-Toledo, MRB- Cebu City, ARDC, MYFC- Cebu City, MYFC-Mandaue, MYFC-HO, EAYFI-BOT, MYFC-HO President, EAYFI Alumni, EAYFI Scholars.

In summary, the Bamboo plantation activity was concluded on the same day as the bamboo shoot successfully planted. This effort showcases the unified commitment and dedication of this community to the sustainability of their environment and in preservation of the natural resources.

On December 15, 2024, the Don Bernardo Benedicto Cultural Center at Mabolo Elementary School was filled with excitement as the Ernesto Asay Yu Foundation, Inc. (EAYF) hosted the Share a Blessing Project. This special event brought together volunteers from the Mr. Yu Group of Companies, parents of Children of Asia Champions, teachers from Mabolo Elementary School, and EAYF Scholars to celebrate and give back to the community.

During a touching segment, the children shared their favorite Christmas traditions and meals. Nathan brought smiles with his love for crispy lechon, while Renren moved the audience with his gratitude for his parents' sacrifices to ensure he could study well.

The fun continued with lively games, including Yes/No, Caterpillar, the Cup Marshmallow Game, Longest Line, and Bring Me. Laughter and cheers filled the venue as participants enjoyed the friendly competition.

As the event drew to a close, the foundation expressed gratitude to the volunteers, including members of Mr. Yu Group of Companies, participating parents, and teachers, by presenting them with awards and tokens of honor for their invaluable contributions. Finally, the distribution of Bundles of Joy capped off the day, bringing smiles and warmth to everyone present.

The Share a Blessing Project was a celebration of generosity and community, reminding everyone of the true spirit of giving during the holiday season.

On December 14, 2024, the Scholars of Ernesto Asay Yu Foundation, Inc. gathered at Talisay City Hall for their much-awaited annual get-together. The day was filled with laughter, inspiration, and heartfelt moments as scholars, alumni, and their families celebrated their shared journey and strengthened their bond.

The event kicked off with opening remarks from Mr. Wilfredo D. Bayking, the Chief Operating Officer of the foundation. He encouraged everyone to make the most of the day, enjoy the festivities, and cherish the connections built over the years. Miss Anna Mae Ybanez an alumna, then delivered an inspiring speech that left everyone motivated. She shared how the scholarship had been her saving grace, urging scholars to pursue their dreams, seek help when needed, and never give up no matter the challenges.

The program was packed with exciting activities that kept the energy high. The EAYF Got Talent competition stole the show, with Grades 8, 10, and 7 dazzling everyone with their winning performances. Games like the Marshmallow Game, Cup Candy Game, Feed Me Banana (where parents hilariously joined the fun), and Message Relay brought endless laughter and excitement.

The 2024 Scholar's Get Together was more than just a celebration, it was a joyful reminder of unity, gratitude, and the power of coming together as one big family.

The 2024 District Stakeholders' Summit of Consolacion District 2, held on December 11, 2024, at the Amphitheater of the Consolacion Government Center, celebrated the theme "Advocating Partnership for Sustainability." This annual gathering brought together stakeholders to honor contributions that drive progress and sustainability in the district.

The program began with a solemn rendition of the National Anthem, Sugbo Hymn, and Consolacion Hymn. Mrs. Faith C. Echavez, the District Partnerships Focal Person, officially opened the event, emphasizing the value of collaboration. Mrs. Lorna I. Soco, Public Schools District Supervisor for Consolacion District 2, delivered an inspirational message, urging all partners to continue supporting the district's mission for sustainable development.

The most anticipated part of the summit was the awarding ceremony, where the Ernesto Asay Yu Foundation, Inc. (EAYF) was honored as a Bronze Awardee for its remarkable partnership with the local government. This recognition underscored EAYF’s unwavering commitment to supporting education, community development, and sustainability in Consolacion District 2. The foundation’s consistent efforts to empower students and foster meaningful change were celebrated by all in attendance.

Other partners were also recognized with Silver and Gold Awards for their outstanding contributions, making the summit a true celebration of collaboration and collective achievement.

The 2024 District Stakeholders' Summit was a testament to the power of collaboration, fostering stronger ties among stakeholders as they work together for a sustainable future.

- Raymond Otom -

Welcome and Introduction (9:00 am - 9:30 am) The event began with a warm welcome and introduction by our hosts, two college scholars. They expressed gratitude to all participants and emphasized the importance of the event in fostering unity and camaraderie among scholars. The title "Una sa Tanan" was explained, highlighting our goal to prioritize teamwork and relationships as the foundation of our success and growth.

Icebreaker Activity (10:00 am - 11:00 am) Two engaging icebreaker activities were conducted:

1. Kumusta Ka? - This activity allowed scholars to introduce themselves, share their schools, and discuss their interests.

2. Human Bingo - Scholars interacted with each other to find common interests, promoting communication and connection.

Team Challenges (11:00 am - 12:00 pm) Three exciting team challenges were held to encourage collaboration and problem-solving:

1. Scavenger Hunt - Teams worked together to solve puzzles and find items.

Team Games (1:00 pm - 3:00 pm) Two creative and collaborative team games were conducted in the afternoon:

1. Poster Making Contest - Each group created a poster representing the theme "Una sa Tanan." The activity encouraged artistic expression and teamwork. Each group presented their posters and explained the concept and message behind their designs

Closing (3:00 pm - 4:00 pm) The event concluded with a sharing session and distributing certificate of participation. The hosts thanked everyone for their active participation and highlighted the achievement of the event's objective: fostering camaraderie and unity among scholars.

The teambuilding program "Una sa Tanan" successfully met its objective of fostering camaraderie and unity among scholars from Ernesto Asay Yu Foundation Inc. The event was a memorable and enjoyable experience, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and strong relationships in achieving collective success.

- Lou Lennox Deiparene -

The Ernesto “Asay” Yu Foundation, Inc. (EAYFI) filled the halls of Mactan Bank - Head Office with laughter and amusement as it celebrated its 15 th anniversary on July 16, 2024, together with its affiliated companies. A celebration that further cements its status as a non-profit organization that aims to impact the lives of numerous unprivileged and out-of-school youth, giving them countless opportunities and guiding them to a better future. Spearheaded by the EAYFI COO, Wilfredo Bayking, and staff, this momentous event marked the countless achievements of the foundation during its dawn of existence up until now, overcoming every obstacle throughout the journey, it opened a window to the past and laid the building blocks for the future.

This already grand event was made more splendid by the appearance of numerous key figures from the foundation, including the President of EAYFI, Joselito Du, and the incorporators, Lilibeth E. Quiachon and Ma. Thelma Yu. For the affiliates, the Mr. Yu Finance Corporation (MYFC) President Richard Esmalana also takes the spotlight during the event, along with the staff of the company. Representatives from Don Bosco Technical College - Technical Vocational Education Training (DBTC - TVET), City Social Welfare and Development Office - Talisay (CSWDO), and Mactan Rural Bank - Head Office (MRB - HO) also attended the said event.

Furthermore, a newly graduated scholar from the foundation, Stephanie Aliponga, expressed her gratitude to the foundation by giving a heartfelt speech in front of the benefactors. Together, their symphony of laughter, filled with pride and gratitude, echoes within the halls of the venue.

The event was concluded with a brief presentation about the various charity works towards different sectors of society, including livelihood, education, environment, etc., made by the foundation throughout the course of 15 years. Certificates of recognition, appreciation, and gifts were then given to various benefactors, who made all these possible.