Spreading Love and Hope: Our Birthday Charity Mission at SOS Village in Cebu, Philippines

It was a year long preparation to go to the Philippines to celebrate my uncle's 72nd birthday (my mom's side). We were supposed to get together for his 70th birthday but due to Covid, we had to postpone. Two years later, after the country has opened again and travel was allowed, and my uncle has gotten better from his sickness, it finally happened. Everyone from all over the world flew to Cebu, Philippines to celebrate his birthday with him.

When I learned that for his birthdays, he would visit a charity place to give back, I immediately asked my cousin to contact them and set up a day for us to visit. What better way to extend his celebration than by going to a charity he supports and also celebrate it through the act of giving.

And so we went to SOS Village in Cebu, Philippines, an orphanage where they care for and house children ranging from 1 year old to young adults. There are a total of 138 kids and youngsters that are being cared for in the village. They have 12 houses currently, where each family house has an average of 7 up to 10 kids.

We bought rice, noodles, canned goods and some basic needs for the kids.

With the help of our family members, we carried our donations and set them up for the families. It was raining during this time but that didn't stop anybody.

We then proceeded to sit down and watch the kids perform what they have prepared for us to showcase their amazing dance skills and as a way for them to thank us. This really touched our hearts. It was so fun the girls even joined the kids on the stage!

At the end, there were many touching speeches and love from all the kids. The children gave my uncle a hand-made Happy Birthday painted canvas to show their appreciation. This trip to SOS village was so lovely and merry it was a heartfelt one for everyone.