Heroes on a Mission

Gawad Kalinga's Luis Oquinena and Tony Meloto on what it means to be a servant to the mission of uplifting the poor

Gawad Kalinga's Luis Oquinena and Tony Meloto on what it means to be a servant to the mission of uplifting the poor

On the 29th anniversary of the EDSA Revolution, it's a time to celebrate Filipino heroism. Gawad Kalinga (GK) trumpets a unique brand of heroism passed down through generations. GK’s Executive Director Luis Oquiñena and his mentor, GK founder Tony Meloto delve into what it means to be a servant to the mission of uplifting the poor.

GK founder Tony Meloto with GK Executive Director Luis Oquiñena

What is the most important thing you learned from walking in Tony’s leadership?

Luis Oquinena: The problems that our country faces like poverty and corruption is a crisis in leadership. We need to build leaders with solid character. A brand of character that is founded on faith in God, integrity and genuine love for the poor.

GK heroes seem to be starting younger and younger! What unique values does this new generation breathe into GK?

Luis Oquinena: The youth brings innovation, innovation fuels growth. The youth are very adept to technology, technology allows GK to cross boundaries and territorial challenges. The youth keeps GK young. If GK stops learning, exploring, having fun, and making mistakes, in short stops being “youthful”, it is the beginning of the end of GK.

While Luis built on your foundation of leadership, what unique qualities does he bring to GK?

Tony Meloto: Luis has strength of character. He is a man of integrity, a man who delivers on his word, which is important because we build Gawad Kalinga on trust. Trust among local partners, and also global trust. We were honored to be presented the Skoll Award for global social entrepreneur of the year in 2012, which affirmed GK’s credibility worldwide.

What can the youth of today do to be part of the GK mission?

Tony Meloto: The young should have the capacity to love their country, to love the environment, and love the rest of humanity, specially the less fortunate. They must think more about building a world that is kinder and more inclusive. Take Typhoon Ruby, the worst of times, yet it brought out the best in Filipinos. There were minimum casualties [compared to Yolanda] because of maximum cooperation among citizens, the government, and non-government organizations. Imagine what the best of the Filipinos can bring – the best of times!