With over 22,000 young lives touched, the Virlanie Foundation, Inc., a non-profit and non-sectarian organization, marked its 33rd anniversary with 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 disadvantaged children through a range of programs focused on child protection, education, family reunification, and community empowerment. Today, the foundation continues to focus on sustainable solutions that aim to prevent the cycle of intergenerational poverty among marginalized families.
The anniversary celebration 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. “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 Virlanie Voices, the foundation’s children’s choir, 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.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we also recognize the work ahead,” Lemay said. “Our mission continues as thousands of children still face daily challenges without access to basic care and a safe home.”
The anniversary event held on July 26 was supported by Raffles and Fairmont Makati, represented by Mr. Nikko Matias, Cluster Director for Talent & Culture, as a Platinum Sponsor; Hacket Security Group as the Gold Sponsor; and Uniquecorn Strategies, Inc. as the media partner. The celebration was also graced by the family and friends of Kuya Dominique, along with the board of trustees, sponsors, partners, and Virlanie staff.
“Stories like Virlanie’s remind us why purpose-driven work matters. At Uniquecorn, we’re proud to help shine a light on organizations that create real impact. As a PR-first marketing agency, we believe in using storytelling to build awareness, inspire action, and support those driving meaningful change,” Dean Bernales, CEO, Uniquecorn Strategies, said.