The GMA Kapuso Foundation (GMAKF) is a leading non-government organization (NGO) in the Philippines, dedicated to uplifting the lives of underprivileged Filipinos. Since its establishment in 1991, GMAKF has provided critical assistance through programs focused on disaster relief, health, education, and values formation, positively impacting thousands of lives across the nation.
As an independent, PCNC-certified NGO, GMAKF operates through partnerships and donations, extending its reach to even the most remote and high-risk areas. With initiatives like Operation Bayanihan and various health and education programs, GMAKF continues to embody the true essence of “Kapuso” by delivering timely support and fostering community development.
What is GMAKF?
The GMAKF is a non-government organization (NGO) in the Philippines, known for its strong commitment to humanitarian efforts, particularly in delivering aid to marginalized communities. Established in 1991, the foundation has evolved from providing immediate relief during calamities to launching diverse programs that address the long-term needs of underprivileged Filipinos. GMAKF operates independently but also partners with other organizations and relies on donations to support its wide-ranging initiatives, including cash assistance, education, and health programs.
GMAKF embodies the “Kapuso” spirit, which emphasizes compassion and collective action in times of need. The foundation engages volunteers and communities in its projects, ensuring quick responses and sustainable solutions to the challenges faced by impoverished Filipinos. With a reputation as a trusted and responsible steward of aid, GMAKF continues to uplift lives across the Philippines, particularly in remote and high-risk areas, reflecting its dedication to making a lasting impact.
History
The GMAKF, originally registered as the Republic Broadcasting System (RBS) Foundation in 1991, has evolved significantly since its inception. Established in response to the catastrophic Mt. Pinatubo eruption and the Ormoc flood, the foundation took its current name in 2003, reflecting its mission to provide rapid relief during disasters. Over the years, GMAKF has expanded its efforts beyond disaster response, launching programs in health, education, and values formation to uplift marginalized communities across the Philippines. To date, GMAKF stands as an independent NGO, driven by its commitment to serve the Filipino people through extensive relief operations, cash assistance, and collaborative humanitarian efforts.
GMAKF Logo
The GMAKF logo prominently features the letters “GMA” in a bold, metallic blue font, symbolizing strength and stability. Above the letter “A” is a stylized heart, formed by a swoosh in a gradient of red, green, and blue, representing compassion, diversity, and the foundation’s mission to care for all Filipinos. The foundation’s name, “KAPUSO FOUNDATION, INC.,” appears below in red, emphasizing the foundation’s commitment to its humanitarian efforts. The heart symbol embodies the Filipino value of “Kapuso,” which means “one in heart,” reflecting the foundation’s dedication to community service and unity. Overall, the logo conveys the foundation’s mission of providing love, care, and support to those in need.
Mission
“We uplift the lives of underpriviledged Filipinos all over the Philippines by: providing quick-response relief operations to fulfill the most immediate needs in times of crises; undertaking health, nutrition and medical projects to promote greater equity in health; carrying out developmental programs designed to promote education and foster learning.
We value our relationship with local, national, and international partners and recognize the impact they have in our capability to provide help to those who need it most.
We are committed in ensuring sustainable operations to enable us to continue being a “strong bridge” for our donors and beneficiaries by actively promoting the Foundation’s initiative to solicit sufficient funding.
In doing so, we effectively bridge the distance that comes between those who need help and those who extend a helping hand. As such, we recognize the power of media and its role in eliciting compassion and a sense of responsibility from our donors and in promoting volunteerism among Filipinos and shall continue to use it responsibly as a means to achieve our organization goals.”
Vision
“We are the most accomplished, most trusted and most credible non-government organization in the Philippines; the leader in serving and uplifting the lives of the underprivileged members of our society through Serbisyong Totoo and the responsible use of media.”
Core Values
GMAKF is guided by a set of core values that are evident in their daily work and remind them of why they do their jobs, how they get through tough moments, and what inspires them to excel. These values include:
- Trust: GMAKF upholds professionalism, integrity, and excellence, trusting both their team and the communities they serve.
- Connection: GMAKF values relationships, collaborating and supporting others to achieve shared goals.
- Inclusion: GMAKF fosters a diverse, welcoming environment, aiming for an inclusive and equitable world.
- Growth: GMAKF believes in growth and opportunity, encouraging curiosity, innovation, and overcoming obstacles.
- Joy: GMAKF finds meaning and balance in their work, emphasizing the joy of giving and serving others.
Mandate
Its mandates include:
- Leading in uplifting the lives of the underprivileged through responsible media and genuine service.
- Providing quick response relief during crises.
- Implementing health, nutrition, and medical projects for greater equity.
- Promoting education and learning through developmental programs.
- Focusing on nationwide health assistance, educational support, disaster relief, and values formation.
Powers and Functions
GMAKF also operates under a framework that empowers it to effectively carry out its mission of uplifting the lives of underprivileged Filipinos. The foundation’s powers and functions include the following:
- Mobilize resources and provide immediate assistance during crises, such as natural disasters and emergencies. This includes distributing food, water, and essential supplies to affected communities.
- Implement health programs that provide medical assistance to indigent Filipinos. This includes organizing free medical missions, supplying medicines, and facilitating access to healthcare services for those in need.
- Promote education through various initiatives aimed at helping children and students from low-income families. This includes providing school supplies, scholarships, and building classrooms to ensure a conducive learning environment.
- Undertake projects that foster community development. This includes housing initiatives, livelihood programs, and other developmental activities that aim to improve the quality of life for marginalized groups.
- Form partnerships with other organizations, government agencies, and private entities to enhance its programs and extend its reach. Collaborations allow the foundation to pool resources and expertise for more effective interventions.
- Raise awareness about social issues affecting underprivileged communities. Through advocacy, GMAKF seeks to mobilize support and influence policies that benefit the marginalized sectors of society.
Organizational Structure
The GMAKF is a non-profit organization under the corporate structure of GMA Network, Inc., one of the leading media broadcasting company in the Philippines. The foundation’s organizational chart consists of a Board of Directors, an Executive Committee, and various departments responsible for program implementation and operations. GMAKF’s leadership team includes the President, Vice President, and Executive Director, who oversee the foundation’s strategic direction and ensure the effective execution of its mission. The foundation’s organizational structure allows for efficient decision-making, resource allocation, and collaboration among its various departments and teams. GMAKF’s organizational chart reflects its commitment to transparency, accountability, and effective management in carrying out its programs and services for underprivileged communities across the Philippines.
Benefit
The establishment of GMAKF has provided numerous benefits to communities, particularly those in need. Here are some of them:
- Emergency relief and support to provide immediate assistance to victims of natural disasters. This rapid response capability helps communities recover more quickly and effectively from crises, ensuring that basic needs such as food, water, and shelter are met promptly.
- Health and medical services, including free medical missions and access to essential medical supplies, health programs, and free critical services such as surgeries and prosthetics. This significantly improves the health outcomes of underserved populations, contributing to overall community well-being.
- Educational opportunities through various programs that provide school supplies, scholarships, and infrastructure development. By investing in education, the foundation helps break the cycle of poverty and empowers future generations to achieve their potential.
- Community development initiatives such as housing projects and livelihood programs to help improve living conditions and create economic opportunities for marginalized groups, leading to stronger, more resilient communities.
- Promotion of volunteerism and civic engagement to not only address immediate needs, but also foster a culture of giving and social responsibility among Filipinos, strengthening community bonds.
- Advocacy and awareness about social issues affecting vulnerable populations, advocating for policies and practices that support their rights and needs. This advocacy work helps bring attention to critical issues and mobilizes support for necessary changes.
- Partnerships and collaboration with various organizations, government agencies, and private entities to maximize resources and expertise. These partnerships enhance the foundation’s ability to implement effective programs and reach a broader audience.
Coverage
GMAKF covers a diverse range of beneficiaries across the Philippines, focusing on underprivileged individuals and communities as well as the following groups:
- Individuals with Disabilities
- Low-Income Families
- Children with Cancer
- General Community Members
These initiatives reflect GMAKF’s commitment to uplift various vulnerable sectors of society through targeted support and resources.
Programs and Services
GMA Kapuso Foundation (GMAKF) offers a variety of programs and services aimed at addressing the needs of underprivileged communities in the Philippines. These initiatives focus on health, education, disaster relief, and values formation, providing essential support to those in need.
1. Bisig Bayan Medical Assistance (BB)
This program provides medical assistance, including medicines, surgical supplies, and diagnostic services, to indigent Filipinos certified by Medical Social Service Units.
2. Kalusugan Karavan (KK)
A mobile health initiative that brings medical services directly to underserved communities through roving medical missions.
3. Unang Hakbang Sa Kinabukasan (UHSK)
This program supplies school materials to incoming kindergarten and grade 1 students to help reduce dropout rates and support educational access.
4. Kapuso School Development (KSD) Project
Focuses on building and rehabilitating classrooms to create safe and conducive learning environments for students.
5. Operation Bayanihan (OpsBay)
A disaster relief initiative that provides immediate assistance and essential supplies to communities affected by natural and man-made disasters.
6. Sagip Dugtong Buhay
A blood donation program that encourages community members to donate blood, helping save lives in emergencies.
7. Give-A-Gift
Alay Sa Batang Pinoy Christmas Project: This initiative provides gifts and essential support to underprivileged children during the holiday season, spreading joy and hope.
8. Kapuso Ng Kalikasan (KNK) Project
An environmental program that promotes awareness and action on environmental issues while engaging communities in sustainable practices.
9. Kapuso Village Project
A housing initiative that constructs homes for disaster victims, providing them with permanent shelter and improving their living conditions.
10. Kapuso Tulay Para Kaunlaran Project
Focuses on building bridges to connect remote communities, facilitating access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
These programs collectively aim to provide immediate relief, promote health and education, and foster community development across various sectors in the Philippines.
Video: GMAKF Program Video
Watch this video and see for yourself how GMAKF’s support helped changed the life of this woman whose eye problems made her miss her family even more:
Summary
For years, the GMAKF has been making a significant impact in improving the lives of underprivileged Filipinos through its various humanitarian programs. With its ongoing dedication to health, education, disaster relief, and community development, GMAKF continues to embody the spirit of “Kapuso” by providing timely and meaningful assistance to those in need across the Philippines.
Contact Information
For more information on the available programs and services, you may reach out to them via the following:
GMA Kapuso Foundation
Main Office Address: 2nd Floor GMA Kapuso Center, GMA Network Drive cor. Samar Street, Diliman, Quezon City
Contact Number: (632) 8982.7777 Loc. 9901/9904/9905, (632) 928.9351 / 928.4299
Email Address: gmaf@gmanetwork.com
Official Website: https://www.gmanetwork.com/kapusofoundation/
Official Social Media Pages
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gmakapusofoundation
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gmakapusofoundation
X: https://x.com/gmakf