The month of May would not be complete without a celebration of the women in our lives who’ve given life to us – our mothers. As such, the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Team of GNPower Dinginin Ltd. Co. (GNPD) dedicated this month’s Project Saysay program to the mothers of hearing-impaired students from Mariveles.

Gracing the White Banquet of Romalaines Seafood Restaurant last May 28, 2024, the teachers, along with the 80 students and parents from Antonio G. Llamas Elementary School, Mariveles National High School – Poblacion, Cabcaben Elementary School gathered for an interactive morning where they learned sign language and indulged in creative workshops.

Opening the event was GNPD CSR Superintendent Joseph Paolo Mendoza, who emphasized on the unique and profound purpose of sign language, especially to the mothers. “Walang anumang salitang makakapag-larawan ng pagmamahal ng ating mga inay,” he said. “May we never forget that every gesture, every sign, every effort we make to communicate inclusively brings us closer to a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Let’s continue to be the change-makers and the champions of a more connected and compassionate society.” The sign language workshop was spearheaded by Ilah Cornejo, a member of the Rotary Club of Mariveles, who partnered with GNPD for the said event. This helps the parents learn receptive and expressive signs for everyday needs like greetings, family members, food, drink, and basic requests, which can boost the confidence of their children in communicating with others.

The employee volunteers from GNPD, who decided their birthday celebration with the beneficiaries, also joined the parents in learning the basics of sign language, which helped them communicate with the students during the event. They were also invited to join a friendly contest after the lessons, wherein the teachers gave them sentences to interpret in sign language. The students, on the other hand, were engaged in a creative workshop, wherein they were given painting kits sponsored by the Rotary Club of Mariveles. Together with their teachers and GNPD employee volunteers, the students painted tote bags and enjoyed snacks with their peers.

After the workshops, the volunteers chose an artwork that spoke to their heart the best – and the chosen students received prizes from the team. One of the volunteers, Jane Nicdao, also shared how sign language helps connects the parents to their children. “Tunay naman na walang makakahigit sa pagmamahal ng ating mga nanay. Kahit walang salita, kahit walang senyas, naka-dugtong ang ating mga puso,” she said.

What truly made this leg of Project Saysay more impactful is the partnership with the Rotary Club of Mariveles. Aside from sponsoring the art kits, one of their members also provided vouchers worth Php 6,000 for a medical check-up that the SPED students could use for their medical needs. Lenie Lazo, President of the Rotary Club of Mariveles, highlighted the importance of seeking partnerships to help reach a common goal: empowering the lives of those with special needs. “Ang GNPD po ay patuloy ang binibigay na suporta sa Rotary Club of Mariveles,” she said. “Together, we are set to team up to ensure the possible outcome for the future generations, especially to these people with special needs.”

Before the event closed, Arcel Madrid, AVP for Community Relations of GNPD, gave a message to the volunteers, teachers, and parents. “Sana po tayo ay maging tulay para sa mas masaya at mas maliwanag na kinabukasan ng ating mga kabataan.” He also expressed his gratitude for their efforts and passion. “Maraming salamat po sa patuloy na pagtutulungan at pagmamahal po sa ating mga kasamahan dito sa Mariveles. Every gesture, every sign, every effort we make to communicate inclusively brings us closer to a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued,” he said. Sign language is one of the most unique language models, as it transcends a barrier between the hearing and the deaf, and overcomes it with utmost understanding and love. Through the nuanced movements of hands, facial expressions, and body language, sign language conveys affection, empathy, and compassion in a way that words alone sometimes cannot. With a steadfast commitment to empowering the community, GNPD commits to its CSR DNA, P.R.O.G.R.E.S.S., and will continue to uphold the lives of the people through its volunteer-led programs.

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