Bahay Bulilit Finds a Home in Pampanga

March is a milestone month for Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) as it officially turned over the first Bahay Bulilit Day Care Center in Pampanga last March 1. In partnership with the local government, the center is located in Barangay San Jose, Guagua and will be able to reach out to over 50 children from Barangay San Jose and neighboring Barangay Natividad. Both communities are located far from educational institutions and commercial establishments, therefore giving residents access to basic social and educational development skills for children aged 4-6 through Bahay Bulilit.

“Ronald McDonald House Charities aims to reach out to Filipino children around the country,” said RMHC Treasurer and McDonald’s Philippines EVP and CFO Romeo Bachoco. “We are thrilled to have formed a strong partnership with the local government of Guagua that allowed us to do so, and gave way to the completion of the first Bahay Bulilit in the province.”

Established In 1995, RMHC began its operations in the Philippines to improve children’s lives through programs that address their basic need for shelter, education, and happiness. RMHC currently has two flagship programs which focus on different but equally essential aspects of a child’s development: “Bright Minds Read” (BMR), a program that aims to teach beginning reading and “Bahay Bulilit,” which strives to build day care centers in areas where they are most needed.

“Bahay Bulilit was established to offer children a safe, enriching place where they are prepared to face challenges of formal schooling,” explained Bachoco. “But what we are doing here is more than that. We as a community are helping children be more prepared for their future.” Bahay Bulilit teaches children from 4 to 6 years old crucial skills such as social interaction, proper behavior, and important values through lessons and group activities.

Guagua Municipal Mayor Ricardo Rivera was present during the turnover, as well as members of the local government and residents from Barangay San Jose and Natividad to show their support for the RMHC program. Much to the delight of the attendees especially the children, Ronald McDonald also attended the ceremony and helped distribute Happy Meal toys for the kids.

“This is only the beginning,” said Bachoco. “Ronald McDonald House Charities continue to strive to build more Bahay Bulilit centers around the country, and it is through your help as well that we are able to give more and more children the tools they will need for a better future.”