Habitat For Humanity Marks 35 Years Of Changing Lives

One of the most glamorous galas of this year was also the most heartwarming evening, when the cream of Philippine philanthropy came together to celebrate the 35th anniversary of Habitat For Humanity Philippines at Shangri-La The Fort.

In its 30 decades, the organization has provided affordable, sustainable shelter for over 4.5 million low-income Filipinos, many of them informal settlers. This life-changing advocacy has changed many lives and empowered many communities. This inspiring message was delivered by Habitat's conmittee chair Ana de Ocampo. 

“Communities that were once marginalized and overlooked are now thriving centers of hope and opportunity. The impact that Habitat for Humanity Philippines has made goes beyond bricks and mortar; restoring dignity, igniting potential, and creating a sense of belonging for the many lives it has changed.” 

Yet, because there remains so much work still to be done, part of the evening was devoted to raising awareness for the organization's many ongoing programs, to raise funds, and to invite new partners to lend their support to this very noteworthy advocacy.

Fernando Zobel de Ayala, capital campaign cabinet chair of Habitat For Humanity Philippines, recounted how he was inspired to be part of the organization after the 1999 visit of former US President Jimmy Carter and his wife to the Philippines. He has since then become a key leader in mobilizing supporters and volunteers for Habitat. Two housing beneficiaries, Christian Seso and Claudette Fernandez, shared the inspiring story of how Habitat For Humanity changed their lives for the better. Christian is now a civil engineer, while Christine is the current General Deputy Assistant Secretary for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

In his speech, Fernando Zobel de Ayala said, "Through the stories of Claudette Fernandez and Christian Seso, Habitat Philippines' work reverberates across many years. Their stories illustrate that a home is not just about shelter. Having a home is also about having hope, dignity, good health, safety and security, and an opportunity for a better future.”

The glamorous evening was held at Shangri-La The Fort, over a sumptuous four-course dinner crated by three-Michelin-starred Chef Walter Manzke and James Beard awardee Margarita Manzke.