The Bukas Palad Foundation of the Philippines, Inc. (BP) is a non-profit organization that helps children, the elderly, and poor communities by offering education, healthcare, and livelihood programs. Founded by the young members of the Focolare Movement—an ecclesial movement within the Catholic Church founded by Chiara Lubich—during a time of political unrest in 1983, the foundation focuses on uplifting people from poverty by providing essential services and fostering a culture of giving.
Over the years, BP has grown to reach more than 10,000 families, expanding its services to various communities across the Philippines. To this day, BP serves and gives not only to meet the basic needs of those in need, but also to empower them to build a new way of life—one with a better future for themselves, their families, communities, and the world.
What is BP?
BP, officially known as the Bukas Palad Foundation of the Philippines, Inc., is a non-profit and non-governmental organization (NGO). It was established in 1983 to provide sustainable development, education, livelihood, information and communication strategy to children, elderly, urban poor, and victims of calamities and disaster in an attempt to uplift the communities and restore the people’s dignity as human beings.
As a philanthropic organization, BP serves the community through comprehensive programs and services that are geared towards promoting the holistic growth of its beneficiaries. The group lives by the motto: “Freely we give, freely we receive”, and through its continuous efforts, has already established a social center and reached out to over 10,000 families in the communities within its area of coverage
History
In 1983, during a time of political unrest in Manila, BP started when a group of youth from the Focolare Movement chose to help marginalized communities by promoting a culture of giving. They began by donating unused items and offering free medical services, which quickly grew into a more organized effort. A local family provided a garage as a makeshift clinic, where people could receive health care and support. Inspired by the Gospel’s message, “Freely you receive, freely you give,” these young people unwittingly founded the Bukas Palad Foundation. Over time, BP expanded to other areas in the Philippines, including Tagaytay (1985), Cebu (1987), Davao (1988), and La Union (2000), becoming a significant social initiative that empowers communities to rise above poverty and restore their dignity.
Logo
The Bukas Palad Foundation logo features two abstract human figures in blue, one larger and one smaller, symbolizing the foundation’s commitment to serving people of all ages, from children to adults. The figures have their arms raised, each holding a red heart, representing love, generosity, and the spirit of giving. The larger figure’s outstretched arms convey the foundation’s outreach to the community, while the smaller figure signifies those receiving help. The text “Bukas Palad” is written in a flowing script below the figures, suggesting openness and the act of giving freely. The slogan “Freely you receive, freely you give” at the bottom reinforces the foundation’s mission of selfless service.
Mission
“To realize its vision, BP dedicates itself to the assistance of those in greater need by providing programs and services suitable to support and empower them towards self-sufficiency and reciprocity.”
Vision
“We envision BP as a leading non-government organization in Metro Manila committed to transforming and uplifting marginalized communities where a culture of universal brotherhood and communion prevails.”
Core Values
Bukas Palad Foundation is guided by three core values that shape everything they do to support and uplift their community.
- Integrity: Acting with honesty and staying true to their mission in every decision and action.
- Compassion: Showing kindness and understanding to everyone they help, always putting others’ needs first.
- Reciprocity: Encouraging a culture of giving back, where those who receive help are inspired to help others in return.
Mandate
As an organization, BP’s primary mandate is to form, train, educate, and support indigent individuals to become well-rounded, virtuous, and productive members of society who are capable of giving back to their communities.
Powers and Functions
The BP Foundation works to empower individuals and communities by providing vital support and opportunities. Here’s how they help:
- They support students from low-income families to succeed in their education and become competitive on a global scale.
- They create projects that produce quality goods while also offering income opportunities for community members.
- They ensure that those in need have access to proper and high-quality healthcare services.
- They help vulnerable people improve their skills based on current market trends and customer demands.
- They offer spaces for individuals and communities to engage in social activities, community organization, and development.
- They provide a safe and nurturing learning environment that promotes independence, positive relationships, and curiosity.
- They create pathways for sustainable employment for those who are less fortunate.
Organizational Structure
Structured as a non-profit, non-governmental organization, BP’s organizational framework is designed to center around the group’s primary area of focus. That said, aside from the mandatory board of directors that serve as the governing body that oversees strategic direction, the team houses program managers and coordinators who implement specific initiatives and manage daily operations. These managers and coordinators are then supported by teams composed of both volunteers and personnel who are dedicated to empowering marginalized groups, including children, the elderly, and urban poor communities. This structure allows BP to seamlessly operate and effectively reach and support over 10,000 families across various communities, adapting to their needs and fostering sustainable development.
Benefit
The establishment of the BP brings numerous advantages to communities, particularly for marginalized groups. By focusing on education, livelihood, and healthcare, BP plays a vital role in improving the quality of life for many individuals and families.
- Access to Education: BP provides educational programs that help children and youth gain the skills and knowledge necessary for personal development and future opportunities.
- Economic Empowerment: Through livelihood programs, the foundation offers training and resources that enable individuals to secure jobs or start their own businesses, leading to financial independence.
- Improved Healthcare: BP’s healthcare initiatives address critical health issues, providing services such as dental care, nutrition programs, and maternal health support, which enhance overall community health.
- Community Development: By fostering a culture of cooperation and support, BP encourages community members to work together, strengthening social ties and building resilient communities.
- Support During Crises: The foundation responds effectively to emergencies and disasters, offering assistance to those affected and helping them recover and rebuild their lives.
Coverage
BP operates primarily in the Philippines, focusing on underserved communities to provide essential services in education, livelihood, and healthcare. The foundation aims to reach various regions, ensuring that its programs are accessible to those in need, particularly in urban poor areas and rural communities. Through its initiatives, BP has positively impacted thousands of individuals and families, fostering sustainable development and empowerment, to the following groups:
- Children and youth from low-income families
- Parents seeking educational support and training
- Individuals affected by health issues, including tuberculosis and malnutrition
- Women and mothers needing maternal and child health services
- Community members seeking job training and placement assistance
Programs and Services
As a non-profit organization that helps people in the Philippines through various programs, BP focuses its efforts in three main areas: Education, Livelihood, and Healthcare. Here’s a list of some of their ongoing programs:
1. Education
- Skills and Trainings as Paraprofessional Teachers: Provides training to community members to become teachers and help educate children.
- Education and Growth as Parent-Teacher: Supports parents in their role as educators for their children.
- School of Life Program: Offers a formation program to help prepare beneficiaries for life.
- Support at a Distance Program (SAAD): Provides financial support and personal relationships to help children go to school.
2. Livelihood
- Dingdahan: Helps people start small businesses and earn money.
- Production Program: Trains people in skills like sewing to make products they can sell.
- Job Placement Program: Assists in finding employment opportunities for beneficiaries.
3. Healthcare
- Dental Program: Offers dental care and education to improve oral health.
- Center for Life Program: Provides support and services to people living with HIV/AIDS.
- Feeding Program: Helps address malnutrition by providing nutritious meals.
- Tuberculosis Program: Offers treatment and support for people with tuberculosis.
- Nutrition Program: Educates communities on healthy eating and nutrition.
- Maternal & Child Health Program: Focuses on the health and well-being of mothers and children.
By partnering with individuals and groups, BP hopes to make a positive impact on the lives of its beneficiaries and the community as a whole.
Video: The BP Foundation Story
Learn more about the BP Story and what it does exactly by watching this video from Bukas Palad Foundation:
Summary
The Bukas Palad Foundation (BP) has made significant strides in uplifting marginalized communities in the Philippines through its comprehensive programs in education, livelihood, and healthcare. By encouraging a culture of giving and empowerment, BP not only meets immediate needs but also helps individuals and families build even more sustainable futures.
Contact Information
Bukas Palad Foundation
Main Office Address: 1832 Tramo Street, corner Gil Puyat Avenue, Pasay, Metro Manila 1300
Contact Number: +63 02 844 6354
Official Website: https://bukaspaladfoundation.org/
Official Social Media Pages
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/bpfoundationmanila
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bukaspaladfoundation