Reaffirming its mission to uplift vulnerable Filipino children.
Virlanie Foundation, Inc., a non-profit and non-sectarian organization, marked its 33rd anniversary last July 26.
It was a celebration that honored its legacy of service and reaffirmed its mission to support vulnerable children in the Philippines.
The event also coincided with the 75th birthday of its founder, French social worker Dominique Lemay, more fondly known as Kuya Dominique, who established the foundation in 1992 to provide care, protection, and opportunities to children living on the streets of Metro Manila.
“For 33 years, we’ve seen how love, compassion, and consistent support can change lives,” Lemay said. “Do small things. Do something for the children of Virlanie. I cannot do it alone, but together, we can change lives.”
Since its founding, Virlanie has helped more than 22,000 disadvantaged children through a range of programs focused on child protection, education, family reunification, and community empowerment.
The foundation today continues to focus on sustainable solutions that aim to prevent the cycle of intergenerational poverty among marginalized families.
The anniversary celebration also included a Service Awarding Ceremony honoring long-serving staff members for their years of dedication to the foundation’s mission.
Among those recognized was Ferdinand Cellona, Street Education Lead of Virlanie’s Street Program, who has been with the foundation for two decades.
“Every child on the street has a story and a dream. For 20 years, I’ve walked beside them to remind them they are not forgotten. With Virlanie, we make sure no child is left behind,” said Cellona.
He continued: “As street educators, our role is to be trusted kuyas and ates they can turn to. We listen, support them in finding solutions, help guide their decisions, and refer those who choose to leave street life to shelters and care facilities.”
One of Virlanie’s newest supporters, Jakob Walland, who has sponsored the education and development of 42 children, shared his perspective on the foundation’s work.
“If a child gains an education or a skill, they can help themselves and their families. That is what Virlanie makes possible. Giving is easy for donors like me, but the real gift is the time, heart, and everyday effort that the foundation gives,” Walland said.
The event included musical performances by the foundation’s children’s choir, Virlanie Voices, and renowned Filipino singer-songwriter Jose Mari Chan.
Virlanie’s programs continue to serve children in residential care, children with special needs, and youth undergoing reintegration. The foundation also works closely with communities to help families become self-reliant and prevent child abandonment or neglect.
Lemay said, “As we celebrate this milestone, we also recognize the work ahead. Our mission continues as thousands of children still face daily challenges without access to basic care and a safe home.”
Founded in 1992 by French humanitarian Dominique Lemay, Virlanie Foundation, Inc. is a private, non-profit, and non-sectarian organization in the Philippines that supports children in street situations and other marginalized conditions.
For over three decades, the foundation has helped over 22,000 disadvantaged children and continues to focus on sustainable solutions that prevent intergenerational poverty and promote family and community empowerment.