AHON (Acts of Hope for the Nation) Foundation

ahonfoundation.multiply.com

2008-12-10T11:21:00.004+08:00

For more information about AHON Foundation,

please feel free to browse us at

http://ahonfoundation.multiply.com/.

If by chance you want to help the Philippines a bit more....

2008-08-28T13:14:00.004+08:00

Hello everyone,

If by chance you want to help our country some more...
If by chance you want to build a better, stronger nation...
If by chance you'd like our underprivileged Filipino youth to grow up more capable, if not successful...
If by chance you'd like our very own kids to have a better world...

Please join hands with AHON Foundation as it strives to help Philippine public schools build and develop their own libraries.

Help bring books and children together!
Help turn bookworms into beautiful butterflies!

Visit Fully Booked, Bonifacio High Street, especially on August 30, 2008 at 3:00-4:30PM and listen to Warrior of the Drums, Paul Zialcita, and Goddess of Dreams-Weaver of Words, Niña Terol, as they tell children's stories for the benefit of AHON Foundation.

Buy & donate books for the public school libraries through the AHON Foundation Book Registry at Fully Booked. Who knows, all you may need to spare is PhP65 for a book that will bring joy and wonderful opportunities to a child who has never seen, held, or read one!

Please feel free to share this with your friends and contacts!
Thank you very much!

Cheers from,

AHON (Acts of Hope for the Nation) Foundation
http://ahonfoundation.multiply.com
http://www.ahonfoundation.blogspot.com
ahonfoundation@yahoo.com
ahonfoundation@gmail.com
683-0262 local 106 or 109

AHON Foundation and Fully Booked partner for book registry project

2008-08-21T11:54:00.011+08:00

AHON Foundation, Inc. Launches 1st Philippine Book Registry for Public Schools

by: Harvey Keh, Executive Director, AHON Foundation

Rowena is a 2nd year high school student at a public school in Metro Manila. At first glance she looks like a typical teenager who is eager to learn new things yet when she is asked to explain the meaning of a magazine article that her teacher asked her to read, she just shrugs her head and honestly tells her teacher that she cannot answer.

Rowena is just one of the hundreds of thousands of high school students in our country who are diagnosed to be "non-readers" or students who can read but have very poor comprehension skills therefore they cannot understand what they have just read. In some cases, public school teachers lament the fact that there are many students who reach high school despite the fact that they have reading comprehension skills equivalent to a Grade 3 student.

This is no longer surprising considering that many of our public schools still do not have enough textbooks and functional libraries that their students can use. When one visits a typical public school library, you will be depressed at seeing that there are very few books available for the students and if there are, most of these books were published in the 1960s and the 1970s.

This is the kind of situation that the AHON (Acts of Hope for the Nation) Foundation hopes to respond to as it launches the 1st ever Philippine Book Registry for Public Schools together with Fully Booked at Bonifacio High Street in Global City, Taguig.

AHON Foundation is a non-profit organization that aims to improve the state of public education in our country by helping build well-equipped and functional public elementary and high school libraries all over the country.

Since its inception in 2006, AHON has already helped establish 16 libraries in public elementary schools in Marikina, Quezon City, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga and Pangasinan. These libraries which are developed by harnessing support from different members of the community are currently benefitting more than 25,000 public elementary school students. It aims to respond to the needs of other public schools in areas like Basilan, Saranggani, Agusan del Sur and other provinces.

The book registry entitled, "Turn Bookworms into Beautiful Butterflies" is found at the flagship store of Fully Booked at Bonifacio High Street, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Like a bridal registry, any well-meaning individual who hopes to help bring books to public school libraries can visit Fully Booked and select books that are needed by schools from the designated tables in the bookstore for the AHON Foundation Book Registry.

During the launch of the book registry last August 8, Fully Booked Managing Director Jaime Daez said that he is very happy with the partnership since Fully Booked shares in AHON's mission of promoting love for reading among young Filipinos.

As the keynote speaker during the launch, Ateneo de Manila University President and noted mathematician, Fr. Bienvenido Nebres, S.J. shared with the audience his own love affair with books beginning with adventure and fairytale books written in Ilocano, and Marvel comic books too, which he read while growing up in his hometown at Bacnotan, La Union.

Fr. Nebres also stressed that books are important since they allow the youth to open their eyes to new realities and enhance their imagination. He exclaims "books are magical; they open up one's imagination!".

As the launch event drew to a close, AHON Foundation Chairman and Filway Marketing Inc. President, Hector Tagaysay stressed that since majority of Filipinos study in the public schools, there is an urgent need for everyone to work together to help improve our public school system if we want our country to move at the pace of our other Asian neighbors. More importantly, he emphasized that our country's development will not move at the pace of our private schools such as Ateneo, La Salle or Assumption rather it will move at the pace of our public school system.

Aside from Fr. Nebres, other endorsers of the book registry project include well-known talk show host, Boy Abunda and Dr. Lourdes David, Director of Ateneo de Manila's Rizal Library.

For more information about Turn Bookworms into Beautiful Butterflies, you can visit Fully Booked at Bonifacio High Street or you can contact Anna Rojas at (02) 683-0262 local 109.

Watch out for the roll out of the book registries in more Fully Booked branches in the coming months.

Irisse Sison writes about AHON Foundation, Inc.

2008-06-24T15:46:00.002+08:00

My Internship at AHON (Acts of Hope for the Nation) Inc.
By Irrisse Sison

I had no idea what to expect on my first day as an AHON Foundation, Inc. summer intern. Even now that I am about to say adieu, I still cannot say that I've got everything panned out together. You see, working in AHON has not permitted me to be complacent, but has taught me how to adjust. It didn't let me feel that it’s all there is to work, but it always proved to me that there's a variety of work to do, and that the work you do reaches far.

What I would first like to thank AHON for is giving me a tangible expression on how to help contribute and make a difference for the country - all these while the hours are credited as job training and I was even paid and cared for!

For the longest time, I would often feel sentimental whenever I see needy people, or hear sad stories about how someone had to stop studying because his family simply could not afford the fee anymore, or encounter statistics showing that one grubby textbook is being shared by four students in a cramped class. These feelings would linger for awhile and then be replaced by a sense of resignation, a sense telling me that this was the status quo and that there was nothing I could really do about it. It was only after I got to know my superiors in AHON that I started to see how twisted my misconception had been.

For my first day, I was tasked to help sort out the books from Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyon Pangarap, a book drive project organized by AHON Foundation, together with KIDS (Kabataang Iyong Dapat Suportahan) Foundation, Inc.. The awareness alone that these books would go to the hands of children who needed them the most made the task easier and more purposeful.

I was glad to see that the activities I was engaged had significant impact because I knew that I was helping bring children and books together. Most of all, I was glad for the chance to experience and to confirm for myself, that indeed what AHON can bring smiles to the children, who for the first time had the experience of holding a book. I saw the excitement of teachers as they told me of the plans and activities they had envisioned for the kids in their new library. I see the pride of the school's shareholders as they knew that they had together succeeded in developing a library from scratch.

I feel a sense of fulfilment that I have become part of this role, this fruitful endeavor of not just bringing books, but restoring pride, hope, and education in the neediest places in the Philippines.

Lastly, I learned that you need not be a great hotshot to be able to do much. In almost all cases (as with mine), you just need to give it a shot.

Thank you AHON, for the very memorable 200 hours!

Behind the scenes: learn more about AHON and its coordinators

2008-04-17T21:15:00.003+08:00

Get to know more about one of AHON's newest program officer, Anna Rojas.

Click on link below to read the feature article about her from the Ateneo Alumni Association site on how she found her way to becoming an instrument of hope for many students in the country.

http://www.ateneoalumniassociation.org/

BUILDING A MILLION DREAMS

2008-04-01T15:02:00.002+08:00

by: Cecille Catherine A. Bautista

When I started working with AHON in May 2006, everything was merely ‘ideas’. What we had then was a simple dream – to give public school children a chance for a better life through the gift of education.

Realizing the significant role that books play in the formation of a child’s knowledge and values, we focused our efforts to giving our beneficiaries access to relevant learning opportunities by assisting the schools and communities in developing their libraries. Being part of the start-up team of AHON Foundation, I witnessed how our goals and plans slowly unraveled into tangible and worthy projects.

We were off to a good start. A year and a half since we began this mission and we have already adopted 8 public school libraries – transformed them into magnificent and functional libraries filled with quality books and other useful learning materials. No more dusty shelves, dilapidated shelves, and tattered and obsolete books. This was made possible through the help of Filway Marketing, Inc. and the incredible support we got from the community members. Local officials, parents, teachers, volunteers, and even the pupils themselves all contributed to refurbish their libraries.

Whoever said bayanihan no longer exists hasn’t met our beneficiaries yet.

Inspired by the success we’ve had the past year, we decided to embark on a bigger and more ambitious challenge. Together with K.I.D.S. Foundation, Campaigns and Grey, and Pizza Hut, we have launched Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyong Pangarap – a yearlong campaign to raise at least ONE MILLION BOOKS for the benefit of the poorest public schools in the country.

We created this campaign in an effort to invite Filipinos everywhere to donate books and volunteer their time in making sure that public school children can have access to a wealth of knowledge that can be found in reading books. It was launched last July on Diether Ocampo’s birthday celebration at A.S.A.P on ABS-CBN. Diether is the President of our partner organization K.I.D.S. Foundation and is also our main spokesperson for our campaign.

What’s great about Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyong Pangarap is we made donating books easier and more accessible. We have drop boxes located at over 30 Pizza Hut, Pizza Hut Bistro, Taco Bell, and Dairy Queen branches in Metro Manila. We also pick up book donations in bulk. Donors can also bring the books directly to our office in Libis, Quezon City or at Filway branches in Lipa City, Naga City, Iloilo, Cebu City, Davao City, and Cagayan de Oro. Donating books has never been this easy!

Our excitement about our new endeavor was met with enthusiasm and outright support from different individuals we do not even know. Emails and phone calls not only from Metro Manila but also from as far as Canada, United States, and the Middle East started to pour in. It was totally overwhelming and inspiring. We realized we were not alone in our advocacy.

A few months since we began our mission, I’m delighted to share with you great news that we’ve gathered around 200,000 reading materials from organizations, schools, and private individuals! The support we’ve been getting makes us even more aggressive with our campaign and gives us the courage to hurdle the challenges we encounter along the way.

Another great surprise is the recognition that we’ve been getting from commendable institutions in the media. We have been featured by PCIJ, Manila Standard Today, and Probe at ABS-CBN. I’d like to think this is an affirmation that we’re doing something worthy. Like what Emil Jurado said in his column, what we are doing might be small considering the number of poor children in the country but it is with little things that we begin to make a difference.

Aside from books, we are also raising volunteers to help us in pick up books from our partner establishments, assist us in events, and organize book drive in their own office, community, or school. We are also gearing up for our Isang Milyong Aklat Day on December 8 at The Fort. This event includes a mini book fair and lots of fun filled activities for kids and adults alike. People can also bring their book donations at the event and be part of this worthy cause. This is our way of celebrating the holiday seasons – by encouraging people to share the gift of knowledge.

We’re still a long way from our goal but we are positive that through the help of more people, we’re going to sail through this endeavor with flying colors. It has been a very rewarding experience and we are committed to keep the fire burning until we reach our goal – 1 million books for thousands, even millions of deserving children!

I can’t wait to see the sweet smiles on the children’s faces the moment we distribute the books. I have experienced that many times with our past beneficiaries in AHON but being with the children and seeing their eyes widen with excitement is something I would always look forward to. At the end of a tiring day, what keeps me going is the thought that I’m part of the team that is helping build a million dreams.
What could be better than that?

*Cecille Bautista was a former program officer for AHON Foundation. She pioneered the library build projects of the organization in Marikina area.

First Provincial AHON Library Launch

2008-03-10T18:04:00.022+08:00

The very first provincial library launch for an adopted libary of AHON Foundation was held last March 10, 2008 in a historic event at the Calaba Elementary School in San Isidro, Nueva Ecija.

The Calaba Elementary School, with more than 620 elementary students, will now enjoy over PhP 500 million pesos worth of brand new Time-Life books donated by Filway Marketing thru AHON Foundation, and its partners, A Better Chance Foundation, and Uniworld Inc.

The new Calaba Elementary School library was practically set up in less than 2 weeks through the untiring joint efforts of the local community under the leadership of their Honorable Mayor Sonia R. Lorenzo, the Dep Ed District Supervisor, Mr. Ricardo Badiola; the FPTCA President Kgd. Francis R. Ibanez, barangay captain, other local government officials, the parent-teacher council, and other community members.

The Calaba Elementary School Principal, Mrs. Alona S. Sta. Ines, coordinated this project with the AHON Foundation team, spearheaded by Donna Odra and Val Buenaventura. Mrs. Sta. Ines welcomed the special guests for the occasion with beaming smiles--her happiness resonating that of her community's excitement & gladness at their school's new library.

Energizing the library launch more with the announcement of additonal support for the community, via a donation of about 200 pairs of eye glasses for those who will need them, was Mr. Lewis A. Edwards, Founder/Chairman of A Better Chance (ABC) Foundation. The mission of his foundation is to provide scholarships for the poor, among many other social development projects. With Mr. Edwards was his team composed of Project Director Hidie Niedo and Coordinator, Maricris Encarnacion. Also present during the festivities were VP for Marketing of Filway Marketing, Inc., Ms. Valerie Valena and Marketing staff, Melanie Renales.

Towards the end of the heartwarming program, Mr. Harveh Keh, Executive Director for AHON Foundation, turned over the books ceremonially to the president of the student council, who represented the excited students, eager to read the books for the very first time.

The eyes of the elementary pupils simply twinkled at the sight of so many colorful and hard-bound books in their new library. The younger kids rushed towards shelves with storybooks about animals and planets, while the older school children moved excitedly towards the reference books on various topics on Science, Social Studies, Reading, etc.

Due to the success of this project, Mayor Sonia Lorenzo and the other principals believe this experience can be replicated with their respective schools in the district. Everyone agreed that there is no greater joy than to see for oneself the wonderful fruits of the bayanihan spirit at work in the community.

Talks are underway for similar projects in the future. With a growing circle of friends and supporters, not only of AHON Foundation, but of the local communities as well, such dreams will not be too far from reality.

The Calaba Elementary School library was the 11th public elementary school library adopted by AHON Foundation in less than two years. The list of the other elementary school (ES) libaries inaugurated since May 2006 is as follows:

Industrial Valley ES ( August 8, 2006)

Concepcion ES (November 14, 2006)

Malanday ES (February 26, 2007)

San Roque ES (April 18, 2007)

GSIS Village ES (September 13, 2007)

Batasan Hills ES (September 20, 2007)

San Bartolome ES (September 25, 2007)

Lucas Pascual ES (October 4, 2007)

Payatas B-Annex ES (December 12, 2007)

15th Avenue, Cubao ES (February 20, 2007)

Calaba ES, Nueva Ecija (March 10, 2008)

Old Balara ES (March 14, 2008)

thank you!

2008-01-23T12:20:00.000+08:00

we would like to thank the ff:

Asian Development Bank (courtesy of mr. jun de jesus)
Ms. Joyce Dy
Soundscope Marketing (courtesy of ms. joyce dy)
St. Augustine Publishing (courtesy of ms. joyce dy)

thank you!

2008-01-16T10:50:00.000+08:00

we'd like to thank the following for their donations:

ms. ma. angela c. parma
ms. melissa young
xavier school
ms. hazel ann luzentales and B&M global services, inc.
all those who donated books at pizza hut, pizza hut bistro, taco bell, and dairy queen branches..

keep them coming! ;)

and to our partners and participants at the Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyong Pangarap event at Market Market last December 15...

Christmas Benefactors

2007-12-14T15:17:00.000+08:00

We would like to thank the following benefactors for our AHON Christmas Card Project:

Ms. Anna Lopez
Mr. Martin Lopez, Sinagtala
Ms. Anna Lim
Dr. Didith Rodrigo
Ms. Anna Lim
Ms. Christine Susanto
Ms. Daphne Odra
Prof. Jose Faustino
Mr. JR Labadan
Mr. Ret Tan
Ms. Leam Agustin
Mr. Jeff Galan
Ms. Jill Villanueva
Mr. Aryan Antoni
Mr. Kelvin Faderan
Mr. Rommel Rico
Mr. Bryan Makasiar
Ms. Shikha Kumari
Ms. Isshin Cajoles
Ms. Maya Perez
Ms. Honey Bautista
Mr. Javy Bautista
Ms. Maricar Balcos
Ms. Mich Martirez
Ms. Kate Li
Ms. Roselyn Ombao
Ms. Jenny Felipe
Mr. Francis Reyes
Ms. Chaka Bakunawa
Ms. Christine Susanto
Ms. Shikha Kumari
Ms. Nora Tupas
Mr. Jonathan Gener
Mr. Ivan Mandy
Ms. Lilia Amincho
Ms. Christine Carpio
Ms. Lauren Ello
Mr. Lewis Edwards
Mr. Shievar Bolipata
Mr. Mark Dimal
Ms Romela Ramos
Ms. Angeline Go
Ms. Karen Santos
Mr. Bam Mejia

more donors

2007-12-07T11:07:00.000+08:00

we would like to thank the ff. for their book donations:

ms. florina fineman
ms.ester alfaro
ms.leni guttierez
ms.gina gillo

keep them coming! =)

You're Invited!

2007-11-28T10:56:00.000+08:00

Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyong Pangarap Book Fair

at Market Market Play Area
on December 15 (Saturday) from 10 a.m-8 p.m.

Here's what's in store for everyone...

book fair starting at 10 a.m.
storytelling with celebrities and other fun activities for kids from 1 - 4 p.m.
turnover of book donations 4-6 p.m.
evening program (cocktails, bands, press night) 6 - 8 p.m.

We also encourage you to bring your book donations at the event.

Let's celebrate the season of giving and sharing together. Bring your kids, friends, and family along! We hope to see you there!

give BOOKS this CHRISTMAS

2007-11-19T15:17:00.000+08:00

This Christmas, celebrate the spirit of giving not only with your family and friends but also with those in need. Make your presents more meaningful and lasting by making donations to AHON Foundation. Give your loved ones AHON Christmas Cards and make others happier.

AHON Christmas cards are available in three (3) designs corresponding to donations made at P100, P300 and P500. Proceeds of the Christmas Cards will go directly to the purchase of books for public elementary school libraries. For every purchase of AHON Christmas Cards, you and your loved one will be opening the doors to reading and learning for public school students in the country.

Donations may be made through:

Metrobank Account Number: 266-3-26651748-4
Account Name: AHON FOUNDATION

Fax copies of your Deposit Slip to 683-0268 or 683-0272 or email at ahonfoundation@gmail.com along with your name and address and we will personally deliver your purchased cards to your doorstep.

Alternatively, you may also purchase AHON Christmas Cards at the following locations:

- Filway Marketing Office at 3rd Floor, Topy’s Place, Industria cor Economia Sts.( Street beside Monark along E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave, Libis), Bagumbayan, Quezon City. Look for Cecille Bautista or Donna Odra
- Asian Institute of Management, 123 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City. Look for Allan Quijano and contact him 0917-8575642
- 242 It. Artiaga St., San Juan, Metro Manila. Look for Sarsi Sy.
- Youth Leadership and Social Entrepreneurship Office, Ateneo School of Government, Social Development Complex, Ateneo de Manila University, Loyola Heights, Quezon City. Look for Harvey Keh.

With your help, we can make Christmas truly merry for many students.

For more information, contact us at (tel) 683-0262 loc 106/109, (mobile) 0917-3277159 or (email) ahonfoundation@gmail.com

isang milyong aklat at manila standard today

2007-11-16T10:41:00.000+08:00

Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyong Pangarap was featured yesterday at Emil Jurado's column To The Point at Manila Standard Today. Please visit http://www.manilastandardtoday.com to see the article.

AHON Adopts Payatas B Annex Elementary School

2007-11-13T16:53:00.000+08:00

AHON Foundation continues to spread its mission to more schools. AHON recently tied up with the community of Payatas B Annex Elementary School (PB-AES) to develop the school’s library. PB-AES will be AHON’s 9th adopted library since the organization started less than 2 years ago.

The new PB-AES library is expected to benefit 1200 students. Furthermore, the library will also support the strengthening community of Gawad Kalinga - Ateneo Blue Eagle Village where the school is situated in.

Join us as we witness the transformation of Payatas B Annex Elem School Library on Dec. 12, 2007.

For the Love of Reading

2007-11-12T12:54:00.000+08:00

Though noticeably deficient in suitable tables, chairs and updated and well-conditioned books, students from Lucas Pascual Memorial Elementary School (LPMES) have always been eager to visiting their simple library. As Mrs. Balbanita Gomez (school librarian) reveals to AHON, “Kahit luma na, pinagtyatyagaan pa rin nila. Natutuwa na sila sa mga libro na meron dito.”

Such was the enthusiasm the students showed for reading that AHON Foundation decided to make LPMES its 8th adopted library. Initially, the task of developing LPMES’ library seemed daunting for the school’s humble community. They feared that reviving their library might entail much more resources that they can ever afford to raise. Fortunately, the community was able to prove itself wrong. Through the cooperation, innovation and hardwork exerted by volunteer parents and teachers, students of LPMES now enjoy a well-lit and colorful library furnished with the new books by donated by AHON Foundation.

The community’s resourcefulness proved vital in the transformation. Parents and volunteers alike worked everyday to refurbish old tables, chairs and shelves. Teachers and the school’s librarian used their creativity in decorating the room. The result is a library, completely evolved from its old state, that is conducive for reading and learning for the students.

“We are glad to witness the community come together to build this library,” affirms Mr. Hector Tagaysay, Chairman of AHON Foundation, during the library’s inauguration last Oct. 4. “To the students, we urge you to read these books that your parents and teachers have worked so hard for to bring to you. Huwag kayong matakot na maluma siya sa pagkagamit dahil sa ganung paraan naming makikita na minahal at pinahalagaan niyo ang mga aral at impormasyong nakuha niyo sa mga librong ito.” And indeed, it seemed the students appreciated their new books and their new library. Bright smiles lighted the room as the rustling of turned pages are heard during the library's opening.

Today, LPMES students no longer content themselves with a handful outdated books. They now enjoy good books whose information and stories can satisfy their eager young minds.

When Dreams Come True

2007-11-12T10:55:00.000+08:00

It was not too long ago when Mr. Angelito Valderama, a parent from San Bartolome Elementary School (SBES) in Quezon City, was listening to the radio to Mr. Harvey Keh (Executive Director of AHON Foundation) talk about AHON’s mission of transforming lives through developing libraries in public elementary schools in the country. Mr. Valderama shares, “Nangarap po ako na sana mapalad din ang San Bartolome na masama sa ganitong magandang proyekto. Di ko lubos akalain na matutupad ito nang dumating ang AHON sa ating paaralan. (I had hoped that San Bartolome may be so fortunate as to be included in AHON’s projects. I could hardly believe that my wish came true when AHON came to our school)”. He further continues, “Isa itong napakagandang regalo na siyang aming aalagan para sa aming mga anak (This is truly a wonderful gift that we will take care of for our children)”

Indeed, such was the appreciation, enthusiasm and support showed by the parents and the rest of the SBES community for their new library. Wherein in the past SBES students had to content themselves with a mostly outdated collection of books scattered in different areas given their small library, SBES now boasts of a bigger and better library housing entirely new sets of books donated by AHON Foundation.

The goal of SBES’ library design was to encourage the students to come to the library and make reading as their habit. As such, the staircase and hallways leading to the library were painted brightly to entice the students’ curious minds. Meanwhile, the kiddie mural designs inside the library fuel the students’ creative imagination spurred by stories and information they read from their new books.

Just as Mr. Valderama's wish came true for him, the students' dreams for their own future is now one step closer to coming true through the power of reading .

- Launched last September 25, San Bartolome Elementary School is AHON’s 7th adopted library, benefiting more than 2000 students. -

A New Beginning for Batasan Hills Elementary School

2007-11-12T02:33:00.000+08:00

A year ago, Batasan Hills Elementary School (BHES) had few resources to offer to its students. It suffered from lack of adequate classrooms and school facilities and its’ students academic performance was 3rd to the last among Quezon City’s public elementary schools. But today, Batasan Hills fortune has seemed to turn.

With an active school community led by BHES’ school officials and parents, and a supportive local government, the students now has much to look forward to. New classrooms are currently underway, student training has been intesified, and facilities have been upgraded. Of the latter, perhaps the most invaluable token BHES has received of late is a revived library filled with new books donated by AHON Foundation.

Launched last September 20, the inauguration of this new AHON adopted marked a new beginning for the students of BHES. The new library provides an opportunity for increased learning for the students. As Harvey Keh, Executive Director of AHON puts it,

"You (the students) may not necessarily be able to travel around the world to see all that there is. But through books, you may be able to experience and learn infinite things, and journey through time and space."

BHES may have been in need of much in the past but it has gained so much now. Its library has been transformed to an educational playpen as colorful tables and shelves fill the room with every nook and cranny lined with books. Indeed, learning has been made easy, accessible and enjoyable for the students of BHES. It is hoped that through BHES new library, students will be engaged more in the enriching process of reading and learning.

Batasan Hills Elem. School is the 6th adopted library of AHON Foundation. It is expeted to benefit more than 5000 students.

AHON ADOPTS FIRST LIBRARY IN QUEZON CITY

2007-11-09T15:55:00.000+08:00

Neither strong wind nor rain can stop the GSIS Village community from building a library for their school.

The dedication of the teachers, parents and other community members of GSIS Village Elementary School (GSISVES) paved off as they launched their new library on September 13, 2007. Their library renovation project, which started during this school year’s stormiest season yet, gathered together members of GSISVES’ GPTCA, faculty, students and baranggay (Brgy. Sangandaan) to work together for a common cause. The community, led by principal Dr. Lourdes Abalos, worked through holidays, class suspensions and weekends to finish their library. The result is a completely engaging library, lined with colorful shelves, new tables, and playful room decorations and toys donated by the GSISVES community.

In his message to the community, Mr. Maghacot stressed to the students the vital role of reading. He cites knowledge gained from books as treasures that can empower the students to achieve more in life. He mentioned how fortunate the students of GSIS ES are for being beneficiaries of these treasures and for being surrounded by a community who values their well-being.

The inauguration, held at the GSISVES AVR was attended by Mr. Pacific Maghacot Jr. (Asst. City Administrator for General Affairs for QC) Atty. Vicki Luanzon (Special Asst. Sec to the Mayor), Dr. Meleda Polita (Dep-Ed QC Asst. District Superintendent), Mr. Hector O. Tagaysay (Chairman of AHON Foundation) and Mr. Lewis Edwards (Chairman of ABC Foundation)

GSISVES’s new library benefits more than 2000 students. It is AHON’s fifth adopted library and AHON’s first in Quezon City. AHON Foundation hopes to continue to open doors for learning for students as it stretches its reach to more cities and regions in the country.

NEW DROP-OFF POINTS FOR YOUR BOOK DONATIONS!

2007-11-09T10:36:00.000+08:00

Starting November 12, you can already bring your book donations to these Pizza Hut Bistro, Taco Bell, and Dairy Queen branches!

PIZZA HUT BISTRO

Gateway
Insular
Robinson's Galleria
Trinoma
Mall of Asia
SM Southmall
Eastwood
Glorietta
Tomas Morato
E. Rodriguez

DAIRY QUEEN

Glorietta
Eastwood
Trinoma
Araneta Coliseum
SM Southmall

TACO BELL

E. Rodriguez

Sharing your books has never been easier. What are you waiting for? Bring your books to any of these drop-off points nearest you!

isang milyong aklat update

2007-11-06T15:02:00.000+08:00

Dear Friends,

It has been almost 4 months since we started Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyong Pangarap and we were already able to raise around 200,000 reading materials.

The response to our project has been overwhelming – we’ve been receiving inquiries and getting donations from different parts of the country and the world! Thank you for inspiring us through your support and encouraging words.

But we know we can do even better!

Our goal is to raise

One million books for over 200 public schools by March 2008 (since we’d be sorting and distributing the books from April to July 2008).

You can help by donating books,

Drop them off at boxes at Pizza Hut branches (for complete list, visit http://ahonfoundation.blogspot.com). Invite your family, friends, neighbors, officemates, classmates and even acquaintances to donate books and take time to drop them off at these branches.
Organize book drives in your own office, community, or school.

volunteering,

We are still looking for volunteers who can help us pick up books from these branches. We would be glad to have you on board!

and participating.

We are going to have an Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyong Pangarap Day at:

Market Market Kids Zone on December 8

Bring your book donations there and enjoy the mini – bookfair, lots of kiddie activities, and storytelling with our celebrity endorsers. It’s going to be a fun-filled event and we hope to see you there :)

Make Isang Milyong Aklat your

Christmas outreach activity!

Remember that by donating books or sharing your time with us, you are making a kid smile through your gift.

Let us work together to help

build a million dreams

Thank you very much!

Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyong Pangarap Team

For more information, contact us at:

683-0262 loc 109/ isangmilyongaklat@gmail.com

or visit our sites, http://ahonfoundation.blogspot.com/ and http://www.kidsfoundation.org.ph/.

Please help us spread the good news by passing this on to your friends.

THANK YOU!

2007-10-16T10:53:00.000+08:00

isang milyong aklat, isang milyong pangarap would like to thank the ff:

Bato Balani Foundation Inc.
Darien Book Aid Plan Inc.
Ms. Ma. Cristina Magallanes & Ms. Meanne Del Rosario
Ms. Techie Bahasa

thank you for inspiring us by supporting our cause.

DROP BOXES AT PIZZA HUT BRANCHES!

2007-10-11T10:25:00.000+08:00

Good News! Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyong Pangarap drop boxes are NOW available at Pizza Hut branches (see list below).Please spread the news! Encourage your friends to bring their book donations at these branches.
For those who want to volunteer to pick up books, please email us at isangmilyongaklat@gmail.com so we can discuss the details.Thanks!

NORTH DISTRICT

AREA 03

SM 1 - SM CITY NORTH EDSA
Upper Ground Level, SM City North EDSA, EDSA cor. North Ave., Quezon City

SM 2 - SM CITY NORTH EDSA
2nd level, SM City North Edsa, EDSA cor. North Ave, Quezon City

SM FAIRVIEW
Upper Ground Floor, SM City Fairview, Quirino Hiway, Novaliches, Quezon City

GRAND CENTRAL
Basement, Gotesco Grand Central, Rizal Ave., Monumento, Caloocan City

ARANETA SQUARE

SM VALENZUELA
G/F SM Supercenter Valenzuela, Brgy. Karuhatan, Valenzuela

TRINOMA
M2 level Trinoma Edsa corner North Ave., Quezon City

AREA 04

ALI MALL
Space # 19/21, Ground Level, Ali Mall, Araneta Center, Quezon City

NFP - FARMERS
2nd level, New Farmers Plaza, Araneta Center, Quezon City

SM CENTERPOINT
Upper Ground Level, SM Centerpoint, Aurora Blvd. Cor. G. Araneta Ave., Quezon City

ROBINSON'S PASIG

GREENHILLS
Greenlanes Arcade, Greenhills Shopping Center, San Juan, MM

STA. LUCIA 2

AREA 05

SM MEGAMALL
Upper Ground Level, Bldg. B, SM Megamall, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City

SM BRIDGEWAY
3rd Level Bridgeway SM Megamall, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City

ROB. GALLERIA
Ground Level, Robinsons Galleria, Ortigas Ave. cor EDSA, Quezon City

EVER ROSARIO
2nd Floor, Ever Gotesco Ortigas Mall, Ortigas Ave. Ext. Pasig City

STARMALL
G/F Starmall, Shaw Blvd. Corner EDSA, Mandaluyong City

ROB. CAINTA
Level 2, Robinsons Place Cainta, Cainta, Rizal

SOUTH DISTRICT

AREA 06

SM MANILA
Upper Ground Level, SM City Manila, Conception St., Manila

TUTUBAN
Ground Level, Tutuban Center Mall, C.M. Recto cor. R Antonio St., Binondo, Manila

BAY CITY
Blue Wave, Pres. D. Macapagal Blvd., Bay City, Pasay City

SM SAN LAZARO
UGF SM City San Lazaro, AH Lacson cor Felix Huerta St., Sampaloc, Manila

ROBINSON ERMITA
Ground Level, Robinsons Place, Pedro Gil St., Ermita, Manila

HARRISON PLAZA
Ground Level, Harrison Plaza, F.B Harrison St., Malate, Manila

SM SUCAT
Ground Level, SM Supercenter Sucat, Dr. A. Santos Ave., Parañaque City

AREA 07

GLORIETTA
2nd Level, Glorietta 2, Ayala Center, Makati City

SM BICUTAN
Upper Ground Level, SM City Bicutan, Bldg. A, Doña Soledad Ave., Parañaque City

FORT
Rizal Drive cor 31 St. Fort Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City

PARKSQUARE
Ground Level, Park Square Carpark Bldg., Ayala Center , Makati City

CORPORATE CITY
1st Level, Festival Mall, X-Site Entrance, Alabang, Muntinlupa City

SM SOUTHMALL
Upper Ground Level, SM Southmall, Alabang-Zapote Road, Las Piñas City

You're Invited!

2007-10-01T09:27:00.000+08:00

We're inviting you to visit National Book Store Glorietta branch on
October 6 (Saturday) 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
for a storytelling activity with
Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyong Pangarap
spokesperson Diether Ocampo.
There's also a face painting session courtesy of Snazaroo.
Bring your kids along! See you there!

This fun-filled activity is part of National Book Store Foundation's Christmas project called Handog Mo, Aklat Ko. National Book Store Glorietta and Market Market branches are adopting Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyong Pangarap! Handog Mo, Aklat Ko aims to raise books to help less privileged children by encouraging loyal NBS patrons to purchase any of the participating titles from Adarna, Anvil, Hiyas, Lampara, and Vibal. Each book costs less than P100.00.

Let's Join KidsAhoy!

2007-09-24T11:56:00.000+08:00

We're inviting you to support Kids Ahoy Playdate. Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyong Pangarap is their beneficiary for this event.
For more information, you can also visit their website, http://kidsahoy.multiply.com.

Kids Ahoy Helps Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyong Pangarap

2007-09-07T11:20:00.000+08:00

Ms. Joanne Parsons of KidsAhoy with AHON Executive Director Harvey Keh

Thank you to everyone at KidsAhoy!
We're looking forward to a fruitful partnership with you!

THANK YOU!

2007-09-03T14:59:00.000+08:00

the isang milyong aklat, isang milyong pangarap team
would like to thank the following people for their donations:

mr. whitey lopa
mr. montri santos
ms. marietta cuyegkeng
ms. marilou tabangay
mr. bob guerrero
mr. paolo tiongson
ms. angela coralejo

also to KidsAhoy and UP Panitikan for making us their beneficiaries.

thank you for supporting our cause! we truly appreciate your help.

LITTLE THINGS SPELL THE DIFFERENCE

2007-08-09T12:19:00.000+08:00

Mr. Chito Tagaysay, Chairman of the Board at AHON Foundation was recently featured in an article by Emil Jurado at Manila Standard Today. You may click on the link to see the article:

http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/?page=emilJurado_july31_2007

Or read an excerpt from the article found below =)

Little Things Spell The Difference

Manila Standard Today (July 31,2007)

Emil Jurado

***
Every now and then I come across people who live the Ignatian Prayer for Generosity, which says "Dearest Lord, teach me to the generous, teach me to serve you as your deserve; to give and not to count the cost…" These peoples, in their own little way, make a real difference.

One such person is Hector Tagaysay, president and chief executive of Marketing Inc., exclusive Philippine distributor of Time-life books. He founded Filway with Lewis Edwards in 1976 with the mission of being a partner of the Philippine government in pursing quality education for the Filipino youth.

If you haven't heard, much less read of Tagaysay, it is because if he prefers to be low profile. In fact, it took a lot of convincing on my part to get him to agree that I should write about him.

Since Tagaysay's brand of leadership has always been rooted in serving the intellectual needs of the youth, he is now actively involved in two advocacies, both geared toward the improvement of the quality of education in the country. He is currently the chairman of Ahon Foundation and the Ateneo Scholarship Foundation.

Ahon stands for Acts of Hope for the Nation. The foundation is the corporate social responsibility arm of his company. It is a non-profit organization that he founded in May 2006 with Hervey Keh, director for Youth Leadership of Entrepreneurship of the Ateneo School of Government.

Its mission is to increase literacy and build a culture of reading and learning among public school children. It seeks to empower communities by developing adequate public school libraries.

***

Tagaysay says his advocacy tries to respond to the growing problem in the public school system today.

Statistics show that less than 10 percent of public elementary schools have functional libraries. This means most schools have no adequate number of up-to-date books and reference materials that can be used by their students.

Thus, it is not surprising for former Education Undersecretary Juan Miguel Luz to say that more than 20 percent of our public high school students are diagnosed to be "non-readers." Filway resolves to share the fruits of its success to underprivileged but deserving public school children nationwide—through the gift of books.

The key concept of Ahon's programs is community empowerment. The foundation does not promote dole-outs; it believes that the community will value the library more if people become a major part of its development.

Ahon pushes for a strong cooperation among the different stakeholders (parents, teachers, students, local governments, and volunteers) of the community. Coming together, they should identify needs, divide roles and responsibilities, and work toward making the libraries functional. Ahon serves as a catalyst for the community members to realize their potential.

For the record, since May 2006, Ahon has adopted four public elementary libraries in Marikina City: Industrial Valley (launched Aug. 9, 2006), Conception (launched Nov. 14, 2006), Malanday (launched Feb. 26) and San Roque (launched April 18). The foundation has also donated books to help in the rehabilitation of libraries in Albay devastated by Typhoon Milenyo, and to Island Works Society and non-government organization helping school in Samar.

***

Together with KIDS Foundation and Campaigns and Grey, one of the biggest advertising agencies in the country, Ahon will be launching a big campaign this year entitled "Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyong Pangarap," a national book drive that aims to raise one million books in a year. These books will go to selected beneficiaries in different parts of the country, especially in depressed areas.

Tagaysay has also been the chairman of the board of trustees of the Ateneo Scholarship Foundation since 1999. This foundation grants scholarship to bright but financially challenged students to study at the Ateneo. He is also an active proponent of the new student dormitory to be within the Ateneo campus.

Indeed, in making a difference, it's the little things that matter.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

2007-07-30T16:52:00.000+08:00

ISANG MILYONG AKLAT, ISANG MILYONG PANGARAP is looking for volunteers!

You can help us...

1. organize a book drive in your office/school/community

2. pick up books

3. sort books

4. help us look for possible sponsors

Contact us!
isangmilyongaklat@gmail.com
683-0262 loc 109

ISANG MILYONG AKLAT, ISANG MILYONG PANGARAP drop-off points

2007-07-30T15:38:00.000+08:00

for Metro Manila:

1. Pizza Hut Restaurants

2. AHON Foundation (Filway Marketing, Inc.)
3/F Topy's Place, Industria cor. Economia Sts.
Bagumbayan, Q.C.

provincial drop-off points are Filway Marketing,Inc. branches:

Cebu

Filway Marketing, Inc.
Unit 201 Keppel Center
Samar cor. Cardinal Rosales Ave.
Cebu City
Telefax: (032) 234-1668

Cagayan de Oro

Filway Marketing, Inc.
Rosario Arcade
Limketkai
Cagayan de Oro City
Telefax: (088) 856-2002

Davao

Filway Marketing, Inc.
Level 2-272 SM City Davao
Telefax: (082) 298-4573

Iloilo

Filway Marketing, Inc.
Ground Floor Go-Sam Bldg.
Gen. Luna St., Iloilo City
Telefax: (033)336-7639

Lipa City

Filway Marketing, Inc.
2f K-Pointe Commercial Centre
Ayala Highway, Sabang
Lipa City
Telefax: (043) 756-0207

Naga City

Filway Marketing, Inc.
2F Romar II Bldg
Elias Angeles cor. Caceres Sts.
Naga City
Telefax: (054) 473-9751

Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyong Pangarap

2007-07-24T11:48:00.000+08:00

JOIN US NOW!

683-0262 loc 109
isangmilyongaklat@gmail.com
ahonfoundation@gmail.com
or visit PIZZA HUT outlets near you and look for a box that looks like this!

Drop your books now.
Be a volunteer.
Help a Filipino child read one book at a time.

Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyong Pangarap

2007-07-23T14:58:00.000+08:00

With a million books, we can help build a million dreams.

Isang Milyong Aklat, Isang Milyong Pangarap, the biggest book drive in the country, was introduced by Diether Ocampo on ASAP '07 (abs-cbn) yesterday. The book drive, which is a joint project of AHON Foundation, K.I.D.S. Foundation, and Campaigns & Grey, aims to raise 1 million books in 1 year for the benefit of the poorest public schools all over the country.

Last week, the campaign kicked off with a storytelling session in Malanday Elementary School in Marikina City (AHON's former beneficiary). Diether Ocampo, the main spokesperson for the campaign and the President of K.I.D.S. Foundation, shared a fun story to the pupils and teachers of Malanday. More of your favorite stars will also be joining this campaign.

There are many ways to help us. Storybooks and reference materials for grade school and high school are most welcome.We are going to have drop boxes in pizza hut outlets in Metro Manila for your book donations. We are also recruiting volunteers to help us pick up and sort books. If you wish to know more about our project and how to be a part of it, please contact us immediately at 683-0262 loc 109 or email us at isangmilyongaklat@gmail.com or at ahonfoundation@gmail.com. Please call us also if you wish to be a sponsor and we'll send you our sponsorship letter. We are open to discuss possibilities on how we can work together.

Picture the smiles on the kids' faces when we deliver the books to them! Imagine how many lives you can touch in your own little way. So what are you waiting for? Be part of this worthwhile and exciting campaign!Please always visit our site and watch out for further announcements and for upcoming events.

Spread the word. Encourage your family, friends, school, offices, and organizations to be part of our campaign. You'll never know how many would be more than willing to reach out. Let's do this together!

countdown to 1 million

2007-07-12T16:29:00.000+08:00

the biggest book drive in the country....

SOON!!!!!!

Donations Pour In

2007-07-12T16:04:00.000+08:00

More people are joining our cause!

We're sending out a big thank you to Assumption College San Lorenzo for the books they donated for our beneficiaries. On the photo is Ms. Ana Malit and Ms. Jhoanna Espinosa of Assumption Basic Education Division and AHON project officer Cecille Bautista.

Last summer, Xavier School and Ms. Ana Lim also reached out to us and donated lots of children's books and learning materials. Our beneficiaries would be very delighted!

Thank you very much to all who continue to support us! For more information on how you can help, please contact us at 683-0262 loc 109 or email us at ahonfoundation@gmail.com. Donate books now and help build a brighter future for our public school children!

LIBRARIES OF HOPE

2007-06-12T15:12:00.000+08:00

Hi! :) AHON Foundation was recently featured by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ), here's the link to the site:

http://www.pcij.org/i-report/2007/literacy4.html

Or you may read the article below:

LIBRARIES OF HOPE

THE SHELVES are filled with new books, and there are colorful tables and chairs ready for readers. There is even a storytelling nook strewn with mats and pillows for those who would rather stretch out as they flip through the pages of their favorite books or while listening to tales being read aloud to them. On one wall is a mural that livens up the room all the more, while children's artworks are proudly displayed on another.

It's hard to believe this is a public school library, but if Harvey Keh and Hector Tagaysay had their way, the reading room that is now one of the favorite haunts of the students of the Industrial Valley Elementary School (IVES) in Marikina would be replicated in all of the country's 37, 161 public elementary schools. After all, Keh and Tagaysay aim to ultimately "uplift the lives of Filipino youths by providing relevant learning opportunities." That's why in May 2006, they set up AHON Foundation, which seeks to develop public elementary libraries by donating books and reference materials, as well as mobilizing community participation in putting up functional, well-maintained, and child-friendly libraries nationwide.

"Reading," Education Secretary Jesli Lapus has said, "is a foundational skill that enables a child access to the world of information. More than just teaching children to read, it is absolutely crucial to impress on them the habit of reading."In order to inculcate the habit, access to reading materials is crucial. Public schools are thus mandated by the Department of Education to have a library or reading corner. But DepEd library hub project officer Beverly Gonda admits that what passes for libraries in most public schools usually have donated books that contain obsolete data.

Addressing the country's educational woes is primarily a governmental function. But sometimes, when the government falters, civic-minded organizations like AHON step up to the plate and fill in the gaps to provide much needed educational services.

AHON's first beneficiary was IVES. The foundation has since had three more, all of them also Marikina public schools. AHON — which stands for Acts of Hope for the Nation — works with DepEd in choosing the school-beneficiaries. "We believe that if you really want to change the educational system in the country, you have to work with DepEd," explains Keh. Once a school is picked, AHON asks the principal to pledge support, in terms of community mobilization, in exchange for the books.

If Keh's name sounds familiar, that's because earlier this year, he made a list of reasons why someone like him would leave the country. He emailed the list to several friends, but it somehow circulated even outside his network, and eventually attracted media interest.

For years, though, he was the executive director of Pathways to Higher Education at the Ateneo de Manila University, his alma mater. He was in fact a co-founder of Pathways, an educational program that sends impoverished high school students to college.

Tagaysay, meanwhile, is the president and chief executive officer of Filway Marketing, Inc., which has been in the book business since 1975 and is the exclusive Philippine distributor of the Time Life home-learning programs. Also an Atenean, Tagaysay had been an ardent Pathways supporter. When Keh left the program, it seemed natural for him to team up with philanthropist Tagaysay for yet another youth-oriented project. Since Keh's advocacy is education and Tagaysay's line of business is books, refurbishing libraries was the most logical undertaking.

"I don't believe that computers can teach a child how to read," says Keh. "The basic skills of reading always begin with books. Even (Microsoft founder) Bill Gates has said that."

AHON does not merely donate books. The foundation has laid out a solid program of building libraries that is not based on doleouts. "You can give books, but if the library is not conducive to learning and to reading, sayang ang books mo (your books will go to waste)," says Keh.

Three main characteristics set AHON apart from other reading programs in the country: one, the foundation works with, not independent of, DepEd; two, it enlists the help of the local government as a partner; and three, it encourages participation from stakeholders by mobilizing the community to contribute.

Community participation is integral in the foundation's program. AHON does not deliver the books until the structure that will house them are set in place. This means, for example, that the local government has provided tables and chairs, the parent-teacher's association has painted the walls, and the barangay has installed the lighting fixtures. Then, and only then, will the new books — worth at least P500,000 — be delivered.

The community, having thus invested time and energy in putting up the library, has a stake in its maintenance. "The community has worked hard for it, so they would value the library more," adds Keh.

In fact, AHON's second beneficiary, Concepcion Elementary School, was chosen because the president of the parent-teacher's association learned about the program and wrote the Foundation. When AHON representatives visited the community, the residents welcomed them with open arms. Now the school has a new library, through the help of Filway Marketing, Adarna House, Tahanan Pacific Inc., and ABS-CBN Foundation.

Two more libraries, one in Malanday Elementary School and another in San Roque Elementary School, became the proud recipients of brand new books this year.

Keh says the children's excitement over the books is always something to behold. "You can see the look on their faces," he says, "some of them would smell the books, taking everything in." — Lala Ordenes-Cascolan

Source: www.pcij.org

AHON reaches out

2007-05-28T15:13:00.000+08:00

AHON donates books to Island School Works Society, a non-profit organization helping improve public schools in Samar. Acclaimed Director and Island School Works Society Chairman Chito Rono receives the donation from AHON Chairman Hector O. Tagaysay.

Volunteer Opportunities for AHON Foundation

2007-05-02T17:52:00.000+08:00

You can help us improve our public elementary libraries...

Organize a Book Drive in your community or company.

Share your time by doing story-telling sessions with public school students.

· Help us design promotional materials to encourage more people to donate books and volunteer their time with us.

Help us design and update our website.

Help organize fundraisers and promotional events to help us develop more public elementary school libraries.

What are you waiting for? Be an AHON volunteer NOW.

AHON helps Albay public elementary schools

2007-05-02T17:37:00.000+08:00

Rebuilding Lives

AHON Foundation recently donated complete sets of TimeLife books to Albay to benefit the public elementary schools that were devastated by Typhoon Milenyo last year. (Photo: AHON Chairman Hector O. Tagaysay and Albay Governor Fernando V. Gonzalez)

Think big! Move Forward!

2007-04-20T12:35:00.000+08:00

Launching of AHON's fourth adopted library

Even the scorching summer heat could not stop us from celebrating as we officially launch our newest adopted library, San Roque Elementary School (SRES) Library. The inauguration was held last April 18 with Marikina Mayor Ma. Lourdes C. Fernando as the guest of honor. SRES is AHON Foundation’s fourth beneficiary.

Pupils of SRES were all smiles as they entered their newly refurbished library. Upon admiring the eye-catching mural and colorful shelves and tables, they immediately picked up books to read. Some brought their new books to the storytelling nook and shared stories with their friends; others proudly posed for a picture while holding their favorite books. Parents, teachers, and DepEd and barangay officials also enjoyed watching the kids have fun, as this project is a product of their collaborative effort. Their hard work indeed paid off as the library was well appreciated by pupils and guests alike.

“Masayang-masaya po kami dahil sa wakas may mapupuntahan na ang mga anak namin para makapagbasa ng magagandang libro. Sinikap po talaga namin na matapos ito para mapasaya ang mga bata”, PTCA President Mrs. Dolores Manalo said.

Mayor Fernando lauded the community for their unity and cooperation. She also inspired them to think big and move forward so they can achieve their goal of continuously improving the city’s education system.

The event also served as a pre-anniversary celebration for AHON, which is turning 1 year old this coming May. Expect more things from us as we continue our campaign of building a culture of learning. We have bigger and more exciting projects coming up this year. We’ll keep you posted!

Snapshots III

2007-04-20T10:27:00.000+08:00

SRES library ribbon-cutting ceremony

Colorful tables and shelves; storytelling nook

AHON Chairman Hector O. Tagaysay and Bianca reading together

AHON Project Officer Cecille with SRES kids at the storytelling nook

She's enjoying "Pippo learns a lesson", a book from the Child's First Library of Values

SRES PTCA and barangay officials with AHON Chairman Hector O. Tagaysay, DepED Superintendent Dr. Flordeliza R. Mayari, Marikina Mayor Ma. Lourdes C. Fernando, SRES Principal Mrs. Rosario Diaz, San Roque Brgy. Captain Benjamin Cruz, SK Chairman Katrina Marie Marco, and AHON Project Officer Cecille Bautista

AHON's 3rd adopted library launched!

2007-03-02T13:00:00.000+08:00

This 2007, AHON hopes to soar higher.

The festive launching of Malanday Elementary School (MAL ES) last February 26 marked the beginning of a very promising year. Pupils, teachers, parents, DepED, barangay and city officials all gathered at MAL ES to witness the opening of their new library - a product of their cooperation, commitment, and hard work. Malanday Elementary School library is AHON Foundation’s 3^rd adopted library.

Among the guests who graced the occasion were Deped Marikina Superintendent Flordeliza R. Mayari, Marikina I District Supervisor Aurora Divino, ABC Foundation Chairman Lewis Edwards, Marikina City Vice Mayor Marion Andres, and Marikina City Mayor Ma. Lourdes C. Fernando.

In her speech, Mayor Fernando motivated the community to rise above poverty and ignorance by supporting initiatives on education such as this library. “There is indeed hope for transformation,” she said.

AHON Chairman Hector O. Tagaysay and Executive Director Harvey S. Keh also delivered inspirational messages. They both stressed the value of a good education that can only be achieved with the cooperation of the school, local government, private sector, and the community. Keh also lauded the City of Marikina in its efforts to come up with relevant projects contributing to the progress of the city and well being of the citizens. He added, “ While Marikina is striving to be a Little Singapore, I think Singapore should be the one to learn from Marikina. We have done so much progress with very limited resources. Marikenos are meant to conquer the world.”

The project was headed by Malanday Elementary School Principal Dr. Adora S. Marcelo.

Guests at the event were also greeted with a lively performance by the Malanday ES Drum and Lyre. Cultural dances by Grades 4 and 5 pupils also added color and fun to the ceremony.

With the success of the launch, AHON looks to the future with great optimism as it continues to be encouraged seeing public school students excel inspite of the many daily challenges they face.

Snapshots II

2007-03-02T10:08:00.000+08:00

Malanday Elementary School Library Launching Photos

Malanday PTCA Officers at work

The newly refurbished Mal ES library-fun and colorful!

Marikina Mayor Hon. Ma Lourdes C. Fernando, AHON Chairman Hector O. Tagaysay, and AHON Executive Director Harvey S. Keh at the launching ceremony

So serious and focused...

Malanday Drum and Lyre sure knows how to perform...and entertain!

Sharing makes it more fun!

Snapshots

2007-02-08T13:14:00.000+08:00

More photos from RodCon 2007!!!

AHON Foundation photo exhibit at RodCon

National Artist for Literature F. Sionil Jose visits our booth

AHON Executive Director Harvey S. Keh discussing
"Affirmative Actions on Philippine Education"

Starship troopers at our booth...they love to read too!

Palanca Awardee Radioactive Sago Project performing an excerpt from Nick Joaquin's Summer Solstice

Armi Millare sings Up Dharma Down's hits oo and pag-agos

Read to Live: AHON Foundation at the Read or Die Convention 2007

2007-02-08T12:41:00.000+08:00

Book lovers, writers, publishers, artists, organizations, and book dealers gathered at the Intercontinental Hotel last February 3 and 4 for the first literary convention in the country, the Read or Die Convention (RodCon) 2007. The Convention, which seeks to highlight the importance of reading and literacy, was organized by the Read or Die Book Club and was supported by DepEd, UNICEF, and NBDB. Proceeds would go to the event’s beneficiary, AHON Foundation. RodCon strongly supports AHON’s mission of helping public school libraries to promote genuine love of reading among Filipino children.

RodCon has four aspects to it: 1) A gathering of book lovers from all over the Philippines to talk about, exchange, exhibit, and buy books; 2) A wide-ranging and interactive forum for issues regarding reading, literature and literacy in the Philippines; 3) A learning experience for readers or would-be readers as they are introduced to different kinds of literature and book-reading traditions and programs; 4) A charity benefit for AHON Foundation and UNICEF (readordie.org).

The 2-day literary gathering opened with keynote speeches from NBDB Executive Director Atty. Andrea Flores, National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario, and AHON Foundation Chairman Hector O. Tagaysay. Dr. Felicitas Pado of the Reading Association of the Philippines and National Artist for Literature F. Sionil Jose were the guests of honor on the second day of the convention.

The convention featured panels ranging from lectures to discussion groups to workshops to book signings and launchings. As the defining event of the convention, the panels served as a venue for the attendees to interact and share their thoughts on reading, literacy, and the book market in the country. On February 3, AHON Foundation together with Sa Aklat Sisikat and Reach Out and Read participated in a panel organized by RodCon entitled “Working for Literacy.” AHON also sponsored a panel discussion on February 4 entitled “Affirmative Action on the State of Philippine Education” with AHON’ s Executive Director Harvey Keh as the speaker.

Aside from panels, Rodcon also held screenings of movies based on books, exhibits, raffles, photo contest, storytelling and poetry reading, quiz shows, readers’ choice awards and live performances from Terno Records artists. Swissy, Up Dharma Down and Radioactive Sago Project were among the artists who graced the occasion.

AHON Foundation is fortunate to be the beneficiary of the Read or Die Convention. With more and more people getting aware of the need to promote reading and literacy, our goal of building a culture of learning is within reach.

To the organizers and attendees of the con, more power! You have just made thousands of lives better through the gift of books.

Source: www.readordie.org

An Early Christmas Celebration for CES Pupils

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A simple letter from a parent brought us to Concepcion Elementary School. His sincere desire to have good books for CES pupils showed us how much he values education. Upon our visit to the school, we learned that this passion is shared by members of the Concepcion Uno Community. Their thirst for knowledge inspired us to reach out to them and give them the opportunity they need.

All our efforts paid off when the CES library was successfully launched last November 14. The launching ceremony seemed like an early Christmas celebration as CES pupils admired the amazing transformation of their library. They eagerly picked up their new books and shared stories and lessons with their friends and classmates. The parents, teachers, and barangay officials who worked with us could not contain their excitement upon seeing the fruit of their labor.

Through AHON, the CES library received brand new reference materials from Filway Marketing Inc., the exclusive distributor of TimeLife books in the Philippines. Adarna House, Tahanan Pacific, Inc., and ABS-CBN Foundation also extended their support to our beneficiary.

CES and AHON Foundation would continue to work together to develop a reading program for the students next year. AHON Foundation Executive Director Harvey S. Keh, former CES Principal Mrs. Bernardita Bautista, PTCA President Richard Sunny Cuevas, and Engr. Ernesto Flores signed a Memorandum of Agreement last November 8.

A good library and brand new books were not the only things we learned from this experience. The project brought the community closer and sparked HOPE that everything is possible with unity and cooperation.

Help us Bring More Smiles this Christmas

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One of the problems that public elementary schools face today is the lack of an adequate library where students can learn and discover new things. Most libraries have a collection of books, but most of which are outdated and to be shared by thousands of students. With the current state of Philippine education wherein 93% of elementary students studying in public schools, we believe that we need to provide these students with access to relevant learning opportunities so they can realize their full potential and be valuable contributors to society.

This Christmas season, AHON Foundation invites you to reach out to public school children in need by supporting AHON Christmas Merchandise. We are selling pens, desk clocks/pen holder, and umbrellas for very affordable prices. All proceeds would go to helping more libraries next year.

By purchasing our products, you are not only giving a child an opportunity to discover the wonder of books... you are giving him the lifetime gift of education.

For orders, please contact us at (02) 683-0262 loc 109 or email us at ahonfoundation@gmail.com.

We hope that you will join us in this campaign for learning. Merry Christmas and may you have a Blessed New Year!

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LET'S HELP BUILD LIBRARIES!

You can do something!
Share our passion to promote genuine love of reading by joining our cause. There are many ways to help libraries…

1. Donate to AHON
2. Adopt a Library
3. Volunteer!
4. Tell your friends about us!

For more information, please contact Cecille at 683-0262 loc 109/ fax #: 683-0272 or send an email at ahonfoundation@gmail.com.

Let's work together to build a culture of learning! Support libraries. Support AHON.

What is AHON Foundation

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AHON (Acts of Hope for the Nation) Foundation is a newly established non-stock, non-profit organization with a mission to develop public elementary libraries all over the Philippines. The foundation was created through the initiative of Hector O. Tagaysay, President and CEO of Filway Marketing, Inc., and Harvey S. Keh, co-founder and Executive Director of Pathways to Higher Education at the Ateneo de Manila University.

This campaign is an effort to:
1. upgrade the quality of education by building a culture of learning among Filipino children; and
2. empower the Filipino community to rediscover the value of unity and cooperation by engaging them to participate in developing a library

Since 90% of all elementary students are in public schools, AHON believes that strengthening the reading and comprehension skills of students would help boost the quality of education in the public school system.
AHON also recognizes the value of community involvement and hopes to foster unity and better relationships by engaging community members to work together for a common cause. Through this, we hope to serve as catalyst in awakening the spirit of service and commitment among Filipinos.

Aside from refurbishing libraries, AHON seeks to sustain the program by supporting training activities for librarians and initiating enrichment activities for students. This is to ensure that our efforts would translate to promotion of reading habits and improvement of children’s performance in school.

AHON aspires to intensify this campaign for learning by reaching out to more public elementary schools. By building a culture of learning and empowering the community, we envision a significant change in the quality of education in our country.

AHON FOUNDATION ADOPTS A LIBRARY IN MARIKINA CITY

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Students of Industrial Valley Elementary School beamed with excitement as they stepped into their new library last August 9, 2006. It was the inauguration of their newly refurbished library, the product of a collaborative effort between AHON Foundation and the Industrial Valley community. Among the guests in the inaugural ceremony were Ateneo de Manila President Fr. Bienvenido Nebres, ABC Foundation Chairman Lewis Edwards, and Marikina City Mayor Ma. Lourdes Fernando.

The Industrial Valley Elementary School (IVES) in Marikina City was the first adopted library of AHON Foundation. AHON donated brand new reference materials and storybooks courtesy of Filway Marketing and Adarna House, and worked hand in hand with Industrial Valley parents, teachers, students, and barangay in refurbishing the library. IVES now boasts of a lively and child-friendly library that will surely inspire and captivate the imagination of children. The IVES library now has quality books and educational kits, new tables and chairs, colorful shelves, storytelling nook with mats and pillows, display of students’ artwork, and mural on walls.

The IVES experience is a testimony that anything is possible with unity and cooperation. It simply proves that for a worthwhile cause, we can bring out the goodness and generosity in people.

*The IVES library inauguration was featured on The Philippine Star (August 20 issue) and Manila Bulletin (August 21 issue).