Running with Purpose: UnionBank Hosts “Steps of Love” Charity Run for Children in Need
By: Martina Lucero
Last November 16, 2024, UnionBank hosted the “Steps of Love” charity run at Metrowalk, Pasig City, bringing together employees and supporters for a meaningful cause. The event successfully raised over ₱46,000 to support Tahanan Ng Pagmamahal Children’s Home, which provides shelter, care, and education to abandoned and neglected children. Organized by the Digital Channels team under the Customer Experience Group, the fun run was part of UnionBank’s GoBeyond Communities (GBC) program, a CSR initiative that empowers employees to lead impactful community projects.
A total of 88 participants—77 UnionBank employees and 11 external runners—joined the 3-kilometer race. The day began with a short program full of energy and excitement, featuring mini-games, photo opportunities, and prizes like cola products and snack bars. These fun activities set the tone as participants geared up for the run, which started with a warm-up session to get everyone energized and ready for the race ahead.
As runners hit the track, the event became a true celebration of teamwork and generosity. Noelyn Morales took first place, earning a one-month gym membership and a jersey from Awaken Fitness Center. All participants were also treated to loot bags filled with snacks and refreshments as a token of appreciation for their efforts.
While the race itself was memorable, the real impact of Steps of Love extended far beyond the finish line. The funds raised were used to purchase supplies for Tahanan Ng Pagmamahal, including rice, cooking oil, and dishwashing liquid. These donations will sustain the shelter’s daily needs, helping care for the 40 children and their dedicated staff for about a month.
The organizers visited Tahanan Ng Pagmamahal last November 19 to personally deliver the donations and spend time with the children. The donation of rice, in particular, will have a significant impact, as the shelter’s daily consumption averages 17–20 kg. These contributions will help ensure the children’s well-being while reinforcing the shared mission of creating brighter futures for those in need.
The kids expressed their heartfelt thanks through a lively dance performance to the tune of BINI’s Salamin Salamin and shared touching messages of gratitude. To commemorate the collaboration, the shelter presented UnionBank with a certificate of appreciation for their support.
Reflecting on the success of the event, Patrick Tecson, one of the event organizers and Tech Lead Management Trainee at UnionBank, shared, “We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved with this fun run. It wouldn’t have been possible without the commitment of the organizing team and the generous support of our participants. This initiative embodies the spirit of Ubuntu—together, we are all connected, and by sharing our blessings, we can make a meaningful difference.”
Thanks to the collective efforts of UnionBankers, the fun run proved that small actions could lead to significant change and brighter opportunities for those who need it most.