Pagcor’s 2019 Pamaskong Handog kicks off
THE PHILIPPINE Amusement and Gaming Corporation’s ( Pagcor) Pamaskong Handog tradition kicked off on December 5 with a yuletide treat for close to 400 children with special needs together with their parents.
The children, who are under the care of Kaisahan ng mga Magulang at Anak na may Kapansanan (Kaisaka), Inc. received food and noche buena packs while being serenaded by R&B singer Jaya.
Kaisaka, Inc. is a non- profit organization of parents and caregivers of youth from the City of Manila who have special needs. Having around 700 beneficiaries, Kaisaka provides free therapy sessions, educational assistance and home program management, among others.
Fifty-four-year-old Cecilia Suguitan, also known as Aling Bhuda, was elated after knowing that their organization would have an early Christmas celebration.
A member Kaisaka for three decades now, Aling Bhuda shared that caring for persons with special needs takes a lot of strength and patience. But being an active member of the organization enables her to serve others. It also
continue being with the organization as a way of remembering
Jaya serenades children of Kaisaka. him long after he is gone.
Aling Bhuda’s son passed away at the age of 16 due to muscular dystrophy, a hereditary disease that causes progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass. While losing a son is already painful, her two grandchildren are also suffering from the same condition. But with the aid of generous institutions, they endure and find a reason to live.
Despite the pain, Aling Bhuda lives each day as it comes with hope in her heart.
“We are very blessed because Pag
its
said Kaisaka of
the joy in their wards’ eyes receiving Pagcor’s presents. after
Pagcor’s Vice President for Corporate Social Responsibility Group Jimmy Bondoc who graced the giftgiving event, meanwhile explained to the members of Kaisaka that Pagcor has always been striving to reach out to the less privileged Filipinos.
Pagcor allocated P25.69 million for this year’s Pamaskong Handog.
This year’s Pamaskong Handog will run until December 18.