GK Enchanted Farm, Bulacan
15 January 2016

President Benigno S. Aquino III graced the opening ceremony of the 3rd Global Social Business Summit and the 13th Anniversary of Gawad Kalinga (GK) at the GK Enchanted Farm in Angat, Bulacan.

In his speech, President Aquino expressed his gratitude to GK Founder and Chairman Antonio Meloto Jr., and to everyone in GK who worked hand-in-hand in reaching many people in need.

Since 2003, GK has built 2,500 communities all over the Philippines, mostly in areas vulnerable to calamity and conflict.

Aside from the Enchanted Farm, which serves as a university for social education, a destination for social tourism, and a hub for social business, the President also mentioned other government initiatives in cooperation with GK, including the Agri-Social Enterprise showcase of the Department of Agriculture (DA) – a project which helps provide livelihood to farmers.

Another partnership is between the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), GK, and the Shell Foundation. One of their projects provides assistance to DAR beneficiaries in formulating business plans and in the acquisition of farm equipment.

“All these initiatives reinforce the idea that business – and governance – driven by kindness makes the most sense,” President Aquino said.

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