Oscar M. Lopez Center for Climate Change & Disaster Risk Management

The Oscar M. Lopez Center for Climate Change & Disaster Risk Management (OML Center) is the result of the Lopez family's twin advocacy of environmental protection and public service. The OML Center is a pioneer in climate change research in the Philippines, dedicated to finding solutions for climate change adaptation and climate disaster resilience through science, innovation, and strategic networks.

Read more about the OML Center at https://www.omlopezcenter.org/.

The Orchestra Of The Filipino Youth

At the Orchestra of the Filipino Youth, we invest in potential and encourage creativity that uplifts the human spirit.

The Orchestra of the Filipino Youth (OFY) is a 40-piece youth ensemble inspired by El Sistema of Venezuela–a testament to how “a music program can both create great musicians and dramatically improve the lives of hundreds of thousands of a nation’s neediest children.”

The OFY members, aged between nine and 12 years old, are mostly underprivileged children and come from Angono, Antipolo, Batangas, Bulacan, Cainta, Cardona, Cavite, Malabon, Mandaluyong, Manila, Morong, Pasig, Quezon City, Taytay, and the provinces of Aurora and Cebu. Members receive financial aid for their academic education, free music education, rehearsal needs, transportation, meals, uniforms, and the use of instruments for rehearsals and performances. They also receive mentorship from local and foreign musicians.

In an inspiring evolution of the orchestra, the young members pay it forward by teaching music to other underprivileged children. The OFY has developed satellite orchestras in Caloocan, Guadalupe, and Santolan in Metro Manila; Angono, Rizal; and Imus, Cavite. This is just another step in spreading appreciation for orchestral music to different parts of the country. As of today, the OFY has 270 beneficiaries and aspiring applicants are always welcome to audition at the Benpres Building in Pasig City.

Click HERE to know more about OFY