Year 2022 was exceptionally meaningful and impactful for Pitmaster Foundation Philippines. Numerous successes enabled it to give back to the community and make a positive difference in the lives of those in need, particularly during the holiday season.

On Christmas Day, Pitmaster provided relief goods to thousands of people forced to spend this special occasion in an evacuation center in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental. A total of 6,908 families (about 34,081 people) had to leave their homes due to heavy rains that resulted in flooding and landslides.

As part of Pitmaster’s relief and response efforts, the foundation also donated one ambulance unit each to the following: Caibiran in Biliran, Polangui in Albay, Province of Rizal, Cabadbaran City in Agusan del Norte, and Sibalom in Antique.

Pitmaster was also a partner of the “Make A Warrior Smile this Christmas” campaign, which brought joy to children born with cleft lip and palate. It generously provided gift bags filled with essential items such as food, diapers, and toys to show support for those affected by this birth defect that affects millions of people worldwide.

On Dec. 16, Pitmaster's team of dedicated volunteers hit the streets of Mandaluyong City to distribute warm clothing and nourishing meals to thousands of street children. The foundation's commitment to giving back to the community was evident in this selfless act of kindness and compassion.

These activities were just a few examples of the numerous ways in which Pitmaster has actively supported and contributed to various worthy causes throughout the year.

“This year, we have much to be thankful for, but nothing is more special to me than the opportunity to personally acknowledge and thank all the individuals I have had the pleasure of working with to help grow and develop Pitmaster Foundation. Despite the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic, our colleagues never wavered in their dedication to provide assistance to those in need,” lawyer Caroline Cruz, Pitmaster Foundation executive director, said.

“As we celebrate the holiday season, it is only fitting that I take the lead in expressing our love and appreciation for all that they do. For us at Pitmaster, thanking them requires no special occasion or boundaries, as being part of the Pitmaster family means that they are always at home with us. May we all be blessed with the strength and resources to continue being a blessing to others.”

Since 2020, Pitmaster has donated almost ₱1 billion in assistance to dialysis and Covid-19 patients, including 31,000 doses of vaccine, 161 ambulances, 272,000 antigen test kits, salaries for frontliners, vaccine freezers, and more.

Aside from medical assistance, the foundation has been supporting environmental rehabilitation efforts in Siniloan, Laguna, and Real, Quezon. It also sponsored the Philippines’ National Climate and Disaster Emergency Policy Forum.

Pitmaster's efforts have not gone unnoticed. It took home four recognitions at this year's Asia Awards, including the “Asia's NGO (Non-Governmental Organizations) Leadership Award,” “Asia's Best Corporate Social Responsibility Practices,” and “Asia Award for Most Promising Service in NGO.” Cruz also received the “Asia's Outstanding Executive Director Award.” In November, the foundation won bronze for “Most Valuable Non-Profit Response” at the 2022 Stevie Awards, recognizing its work in helping communities during the Covid-19 pandemic.

With dedication and hard work, Pitmaster is determined to continue serving the community and making a positive impact in the coming years.