SILVER LININGS

As Hands On Manila nears its 25th anniversary, it reflects on years of impactful service and sets a bold course for a brighter future.

- By Maritess Garcia Reyes

In Filipino culture, there is no image more emblematic of collective action than bayanihan—the sight of a community coming together to physically lift a neighbour's home and carry it to a new location. It is a tradition rooted in shared purpose and mutual support. As Hands On Manila prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2026, this powerful spirit of bayanihan serves not just as a cultural touchstone but as the very foundation of its story and the blueprint for its future.

"Volunteerism is rooted in the collective spirit of bayanihan," says Gianna Montinola, president and co-founder of Hands On Manila. "It is not just tradition, it is transformation. Volunteer action is a powerful force for creating change."

For nearly 25 years, the foundation has been the architect of that change, transforming the landscape of volunteerism in the Philippines from a niche activity into a dynamic, indispensable force for nation-building. Standing on this significant milestone, the organisation is taking a moment to reflect on its foundational journey, celebrate its enduring impact and chart a bolder course for the years ahead.

The story of Hands On Manila begins with a personal frustration familiar to many. In the late Nineties, Montinola was a busy professional juggling the demands of family, work and social obligations. She felt a deep-seated desire to contribute to her community, but struggled to find opportunities that fit her own schedule.