In a powerful move to turn compassion into lasting change, the ML Cares Foundation recently launched a significant livelihood initiative aimed at empowering Filipinos with practical, income-generating skills. The event, held at the symbolic Fuente Osmeña Circle in Cebu City, marked a hopeful start for many seeking a path to financial independence.
Building Bridges to Self-Sufficiency
The foundation's flagship program, "Tulay sa Pangkabuhayan," is strategically designed to serve as a bridge to sustainable livelihood. It focuses on equipping participants from vulnerable sectors—particularly women, the unemployed, and out-of-school youth—with marketable skills that require minimal startup capital. In a country still navigating economic recovery, this program offers a timely and practical solution for families striving for stability.
The hands-on training sessions covered foot spa techniques, haircutting (gupit), and basic hairdressing. These are high-demand services that can quickly be transformed into home-based businesses or freelance careers, allowing participants to generate income almost immediately after the training.
Leadership Presence and Community Commitment
A notable moment during the event was the active participation of Michael L. Lhuillier, the president and CEO of M Lhuillier Financial Services, who attended with his family. Their presence was more than ceremonial; it demonstrated the company's deep-rooted commitment to inclusive growth and community development in the Philippines.
The training was facilitated by seasoned industry professionals who did more than just teach technical skills. They also provided mentorship on essential business fundamentals, proper sanitation protocols, and best practices in customer service. To ensure participants could hit the ground running, each one received a starter kit, providing the basic tools needed to turn their new knowledge into a source of earnings.
Beyond Aid: A Vision for Long-Term Impact
"Tulay sa Pangkabuhayan" is a core part of the ML Cares Foundation's broader mission, which seeks to move beyond one-time assistance. The foundation invests in long-term, high-impact community transformation by empowering individuals first. The belief is clear: equipping a person with a skill is the foundational step toward uplifting an entire community.
Held during the holiday season—a time synonymous with giving and new beginnings—the event was a celebration of hope and shared purpose. Amid festive decorations and the exchange of heartfelt stories, participants departed with more than just new skills; they carried a renewed sense of confidence and a clearer direction for their futures.
As the new year unfolds, the ML Cares Foundation reaffirms its role as a catalyst for change. By bridging economic gaps and building practical skills, the foundation continues its steadfast mission to empower every Filipino to rise and build a more secure tomorrow.
