Successful Cultural Exchange: Project: Ligaya Brings Happiness from Taiwan to Bulacan’s Children

Bustos, Bulacan – July 6, 2024

Project: Ligaya has successfully brought smiles to 200 children from five different orphanages in Bulacan. This charitable event, held in Bustos, Bulacan on July 6, 2024, aimed not only to spread love and charity but also to promote Taiwanese culture and provide children with a unique experience.

The event was spearheaded by Ms. Shirleen Hsieh, a delegate for the 2024 International Youth Goodwill Ambassador of the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC). It was co-organized by several esteemed organizations within the Taiwanese community in the Philippines, including the Taiwan Association Philippines (TAP), the Taiwanese Compatriot Association in the Philippines (TCAP), the Taiwan Manufacturers Association of the Northern Philippines, the Taiwan–Philippines Educational Development Foundation, and the Taiwan Association Philippines Youth Chapter (TAPYC). Additionally, the Valenzuela Host Lions Club and Thick and Thin Agri-Product Inc. (Atlas Feeds) also played key roles as co-organizers.

Children from Willing Hearts Orphanage, Inc., Bethany House Sto. Nino Orphanage, Philippine Children’s Mission, Bahay at Yaman ni San Martin De Porres Inc., and Nazareth Home for Children were treated to a day filled with traditional Taiwanese activities. They learned how to make Taiwanese lanterns and enjoyed playing typical Taiwanese night market games. Taiwanese snacks were also served, allowing the children to taste the famous treats that many look forward to when visiting Taiwan. Additionally, traditional Taiwanese toys were introduced, sparking curiosity and excitement among the children.

The event’s goal was to promote Taiwanese culture, creating a lasting impression on the children and encouraging them to consider educational and work opportunities in Taiwan. The initiative aims to help Filipino children build a brighter future through these cross-cultural exchanges.

The children were welcomed to the event by Minister Dustin Yang of the Representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines (TECO). Minister Yang emphasized the importance of strengthening the relationship between Taiwan and the Philippines and expressed hope that the children might have the opportunity to study or work in Taiwan when they grow up.

Bulacan Governor Daniel Ramirez Fernando sent his words of appreciation and support for the event. Also present to celebrate with the children were Manila Economic Cultural Office (MECO) Director Tomas M. Guno and Hermosa Bataan Mayor Antonio Joseph Inton.

The success of Project: Ligaya was made possible by the generous contributions of nearly 80 Taiwanese donors from around the world and the dedicated efforts of 100 volunteers from both the local community and the Taiwanese community living in the Philippines. This event not only provided joy and cultural enrichment to the children but also highlighted the spirit of cooperation and goodwill between the Taiwanese and Filipino communities.

As the event concluded, organizers and participants reflected on the day’s success and the positive impact it had on the children. Shirleen Hsieh, the event’s lead organizer, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed, hoping that Project: Ligaya would inspire similar initiatives in the future.

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