In a poignant display of solidarity and support, The Travel Club has officially turned over its first batch of donated luggage to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), benefiting first-time Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) as they embark on new journeys abroad.
The Donate Your Luggage For A Cause initiative, which allowed customers to trade-in their pre-loved luggage in exchange for exclusive discounts, collected hundreds of luggage, each with its own story of past adventures. Now, these bags are being repurposed to carry the dreams and aspirations of OFWs stepping into a new chapter of their lives. Shoppers came for the discounts, but they left knowing their pre-loved luggage would help someone else start a new journey.
During the first turnover event, 100 suitcases were distributed to first-time OFWs, symbolizing a practical travel necessity and well wishes of those who once carried them.
“Ang goal po namin ay ‘yong mga matanggap ninyong maleta ay magagamit ninyo sa inyong bagong simula,” said Sheena Valencia, Brand Manager of The Travel Club. “Kasama po ng mga maletang dadalhin ninyo ay ang aming panalangin na lagi po kayong gabayan sa destinasyon na paroroonan ninyo. Mula sa Primer Group of Companies, mag-ingat po kayong lahat.”
The heartfelt turnover was also graced by OWWA Administrator Arnel Ignacio, who underscored the importance of financial wisdom and perseverance in the face of new challenges.
“Ikaw ang mukha ng bayaning Pilipinong handang lumipad para sa pangarap,” Ignacio shared. He also encouraged the recipients to be strategic in their spending to ensure long-term stability. “Kailangan paglabas ay galingan. Mag-set ka ng goal, para kahit mahirap ang mga kakaharapin, alam mong hindi mahirap kasi may gusto kang abutin. Kaya dapat ang goal niyo malinaw. Meron tayong The Travel Club, OWWA, DFA—lahat ‘yan handang tumulong sa inyo.”
The event was a reminder of the sacrifices OFWs make and the importance of having a strong support system as they leave their families behind in search of better opportunities.
Beyond assisting travelers, The Travel Club’s Donate Your Old Case for A Cause also champions sustainability by reducing waste and promoting responsible consumerism. With more turnovers scheduled in the coming months, the initiative continues to prove that every luggage carries not just belongings, but also stories, dreams, and a community’s unwavering support.
“Set a goal, do your jobs well, and come home successfully!” Ignacio urged, closing the event with words of encouragement.