BENGUET, PHILIPPINES, APRIL 11, 2025—In a small corner of the Cordilleras, nestled among the highlands of Benguet and Mountain Province, hope found its way to places where roads are treacherous, resources are scarce, and education is a privilege rather than a guarantee. Representatives of leading home improvement retailer MR.DIY once again embarked on an 8-hour journey uphill  to bring joy to children through its Acts of Kindness Outreach Program.

The route was nothing short of challenging, with narrow, bumpy roads weaving through towering mountains and steep ravines. Before reaching the actual site, the team braved a 15-minute walk and crossed a hanging bridge, adding a touch of adventure to the journey. The dry, hot weather only intensified the trek, with the sun’s relentless heat bearing down on the team as they pushed forward. This year’s outreach focused on two remote schools—Asin Elementary School in Tuba, Benguet, and Cupotan Primary School in Bauko, Mountain Province. These communities are so far-flung that donations often take weeks to reach their intended beneficiaries. 

But for MR.DIY, bringing kindness and essential supplies to these children was worth every mile.

Upon arriving, representatives of MR.DIY were greeted with a warmth that erased every trace of exhaustion from the long trip. Bright, curious smiles lit up the faces of the children as they eagerly received much-needed school and hygiene supplies. For many of these learners, such items are a rare luxury in a place where poverty and isolation create barriers to education.

This year’s Acts of Kindness initiative touched the lives of 70 learners from Asin Elementary School and 60 learners from Cupotan Primary School. It wasn't just about the donations, though—it was about building connections, creating moments of shared joy, and reminding these children that they are not forgotten.

What sets MR.DIY’s Acts of Kindness Outreach Program apart is its emphasis on sustainable impact. Rather than simply providing short-term relief, the initiative seeks to equip young learners with the tools to succeed in school and in life.

“This project stands as a testament to MR.DIY’s enduring commitment to education and the welfare of children in underserved areas,” shared Mr. Charles Salecina, Head of Retail Marketing of MR.DIY Philippines. “Through this initiative, we aim to build stronger communities and inspire our young learners to dream big.”
 

For Analiza Pelwa, MR.DIY’s CSR partner since 2021, the Acts of Kindness Outreach is deeply personal. Having grown up in the Cordillera Region herself, she intimately understands the struggles faced by children in these areas.

“As someone who grew up in the Cordillera Region, I understand the unique challenges children in these areas face when it comes to education. Partnering with MR.DIY for these outreach programs has been incredibly fulfilling, as we both share the same vision—that poverty should never be a hindrance to learning. MR.DIY’s unwavering commitment to this cause inspires me to continue our efforts to provide support where it's needed most,” said Analiza Pelwa, MR.DIY’s CSR partner since 2021.

The outreach program wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the PNP’s Police Community Outreach Program, which provided logistical assistance and helped ensure the safety of participants along the journey. Together, MR.DIY, the PNP, and local partners demonstrated that collective action is key to addressing the needs of marginalized communities.

For MR.DIY, kindness isn’t just about donating supplies—it’s about forging partnerships, listening to communities, and ensuring that help goes where it is needed most.

As MR.DIY continues to grow with 752 stores to date, its Acts of Kindness Outreach Program reflects the company’s mission to serve not just customers but communities, no matter how remote. The initiative stands as proof that kindness knows no distance, and that every child—regardless of where they live—deserves the tools to dream and thrive. To learn more about MR.DIY's Acts of Kindness CSR Program, visit MR.DIY's website or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for updates.

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