Manang Inday Foundation Inc (MIFI) headed by Cathy Esplana (Manang Inday to family and friends) recently held a festival-themed street dance contest in Quezon City to encourage the youth to be more active and productive.
King of OPM Themesongs and one of the country’s top artists Erik Santos attended the event.
“I want the youth to be busy dancing than spend their time drinking or doing drugs. And at the same time, they also get to rediscover our amazing festivals and culture through dancing,” Manang Inday explained.
Helping the youth, according to her is just one of the goals of the foundation. In fact they have other projects and activities, mostly in collaboration with PAG-ULIKID, the social development program headed by our First Lady, Atty Liza Araneta-Marcos.
“We are inspired by Pag-ulikid because it is how we are as a people- we always look back to where we came from. We have strong ties with our families and communities.”
PAG-ULIKID, is an Ilonggo term which means to look back at your past or roots with fondness and affinity. Pag-ulikid is giving back to the community. It is a very Filipino thing- a cultural trait which is innate to most of us. This is why we take care of our elders and we give importance to those who took care of us or helped us in our journey.
Though the foundation (MIFI) is new, Manang Inday is not a newbie in charity works. She has done and spearheaded countless charity events, medical mission and activities for people living below the poverty line.
In a joint effort, Pag-ulikid and Manang Inday Foundation Inc also launched the Buenas Sa Bigas project where they gave rice in Valenzuela City.
“This social development program by our First Lady is a beautiful thing. We give back to the community and we take care of those who are in need. That's why we are all out supporting her advocacy. I hope that more people will see the efforts of First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and join us in helping our community.” (Manila Bulletin Entertainment)