The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
By Isabella E. Cuartero
As Alay Kapwa marks its 50th anniversary, the flagship Lenten program of Caritas Philippines celebrates five decades of giving hope, igniting compassion, and strengthening faith in communities across the country. With the theme “50 Taon ng Pag-asa,” this milestone campaign reminds us that true generosity comes not from abundance, but from the heart.
Since its establishment in 1975, Alay Kapwa has extended help to the poor, feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, caring for the sick, and helping students reach their dreams. Now a year-round program, it supports seven legacy programs: Karunungan, Kalusugan, Kabuhayan, Katarungan at Kapayapaan, Kasanayan, Katugunan sa Kalamidad, at Kalikasan—responding to both immediate needs and long-term development goals.
The 50th anniversary celebration was held at the Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. (BGPOP) Building at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila. During the event, Most Rev. Jose Colin Bagaforo, D.D., President of Caritas Philippines, highlighted the impact of Alay Kapwa in strengthening our faith and fostering love and concern for one another.
“To our young people: this is your moment. You can be part of something bigger—right here, right now,” he said.
Ben&Ben Joins the Mission
In line with the golden jubilee celebration, Alay Kapwa welcomed vocalists Paolo and Miguel Benjamin Guico of the acclaimed indie folk-pop band Ben&Ben as its newest mission advocates. Known for their soul-stirring music and deep commitment to advocacy, the duo brings fresh energy to the campaign—particularly in reaching and empowering the youth.
Ben&Ben’s connection to Alay Kapwa traces back to their childhood, shaped by the very example of their mother, a long-time volunteer with Caritas Philippines. “Our mom didn’t just expose us to causes—she involved us. That made a difference,” they shared. For them, supporting Alay Kapwa feels like a full-circle moment, reconnecting personal roots with public advocacy.
Bishop Bagaforo shared, “Ben&Ben’s music speaks to the soul, and their values—of love, hope, and community—are deeply aligned with our mission. Their presence in this campaign will help us reach new generations and inspire many more to live out the true spirit of Alay Kapwa.”
As part of the celebration, Ben&Ben performed the newly released Alay Kapwa anthem “Sa Kapwa Ko Ay Alay”, with lyrics by Robert Labayen and music by Jonathan Manalo. The song premiered live at the event, with its official music video launched simultaneously on Alay Kapwa’s Facebook page.
“Ito ay higit pa sa isang kanta, ito ay himig ng pag-asa at pagbibigay ng anuman ang kaya,”
Fr. Carmelo “Tito” Caluag, Executive Director of Caritas Philippines, echoed the heart of the campaign when he said, “We may not be a wealthy nation, but we are rich in two things: our faith and our music.” These twin treasures, he emphasized, are powerful tools in building solidarity and hope.
Fundraising Concert on July 8
Caritas Philippines will hold a special anniversary benefit concert on July 8 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, headlined by Ben&Ben. Joining them is a star-studded lineup including Noel Cabangon, Erik Santos, Gerald Anderson, Bianca Gonzalez, Gabbi Garcia, Jolina Magdangal, Kuh Ledesma, Barbie Forteza, and many more.