On May 6, 2025, Winford Resort & Casino Manila (WRCM), through its corporate social responsibility arm Winford Manila Foundation Inc., held a ceremonial awarding of its PHP4 million pledge to Caritas Manila in full support of the Youth Servant Leadership and Education Program (YSLEP).
This event marked the formal turnover of the entire pledged amount, with the first PHP1 million tranche already released on April 28, 2025. The remaining amount will be disbursed annually, ensuring continuous and structured support for the scholars under the program.
The ceremony was led by Jeff Evora, WRCM President and COO, and the pledge was personally received by Fr. Antonio Pascual, Executive Director of Caritas Manila.
This renewed partnership is focused on supporting YSLEP’s mission of transforming the lives of underprivileged Filipino youth through access to quality education and servant leadership development.
“At Winford Manila, we believe that education is the great equalizer—one that can break the cycle of poverty and open doors for those born with limited means,” said Jeff Evora, WRCM President and COO.
“We see education as a game-changer—not just for individuals, but for families, communities, and entire generations. Supporting programs like YSLEP is our way of helping bridge the gap between privilege and potential. It’s not just about giving; it’s about believing in the power of the Filipino youth to lead, to uplift others, and to transform our nation from the ground up.”
Fr. Antonio Pascual echoed the transformative power of partnerships like this one, stating:
“Support from organizations like Winford Manila Foundation Inc., is vital to building a more compassionate and empowered society. When companies invest in programs like YSLEP, they’re not just helping scholars finish school—they’re uplifting families and revitalizing communities, especially here in Manila, where access to quality education can change lives across generations.”
YSLEP is the flagship educational initiative of Caritas Manila. Since 2019, it has supported over 13,000 youth scholars—many of whom are now professionals giving back to their communities. In academic year 2023–2024 alone, YSLEP supported 4,240 scholars, with 1,589 graduates, including two summa cum laude and 29 magna cum laude honorees.
The partnership is part of a broader mission by Winford Manila Foundation Inc., led by Darwin Cusi, WRCM’s Vice President for Gaming Operations. Also present at the event in support were WRCM Executives Sab San Pedro, Director for Marketing, and John Rocky Leona, Assistant Director for Finance.