‘Smart Kids’ event inspires Pinoy youth
A moving message of hope and inspiration to the Filipino youth was imparted when PLDT Smart Foundation recently held a dance competition entitled ‘SMART (SaMahang Ayaw sa RioT) Kids’ at the NCCC Mall in Davao.
The dance competition was a success as it provided an avenue for street children and Children in Conflict with the Law (CICLs) to showcase their talents, redirect their youthful energy to more productive and wholesome activities as well as promote health, creativity, cooperation and discipline among the participants.
Nine (9) teams composed of 10-15 kids from different “at risk” barangays showcased their talents and flair for dance. Major highlights of the affair included electrifying numbers from Mr. Pure Power, Gab Valenciano and Philippine All Star’s Lema Diaz who were both judges of the competition. The participants certainly enjoyed their tasty food provided by Mang Inasal, and their brand new shirts from Folded and Hung while accommodations for the staff and guests were provided by the Apo View Hotel.
A truly unforgettable moment was the dance showdown of fellow judges, visiting speakers and guest performers from Cambodia, the founder of Tiny Toones, Tuy ‘KK’ Sobil, and the group’s executive director, Phanna ‘Peanut’ Nam. Modern day heroes of Cambodia, their efforts to build a more promising future by furthering educational opportunities in their country and serving as positive role models for their community have headlined the World Section of The New York Times, Time Magazine and CNN.
The PLDT Smart Foundation, through executive director Anthony Pangilinan, invited them to share their mission and vision of using breakdance, streetdance, Hip-Hop music, and the contemporary arts as creative tools to empower the youth to live healthier lives free of sickness, drugs and violence and instead filled with purpose. Their visit to the Philippines inspired the kids of our country, particularly the CICLs and street children to do positive things and strive to change for the better.
The PLDT Smart Foundation works hand in hand with different local government units and Bahay Pag-asa, a home for street children and minors in conflict with the law. This year will see the opening of a transformational facility in Cavite to be operated with De La Salle University Dasmarinas as well as the launch of a nationwide campaign to bring the spotlight on CICLs and their cause as well as give them more hope for the future.
Megastar Sharon Cuneta and international performer Arnel Pineda of Journey have signified their intention to help out in PLDT Smart Foundation’s advocacy.
To find out how you can be part of this nationwide campaign to make a difference check out http://www.ammado.com/nonprofit/102466 (or simply search for House of Hope in the http://www.ammado.com/ website) & http://www.bahaypagasapsf.multiply.com/.
