Today is a bittersweet moment for me as I stand before you, not just as the Chief Executive Officer of HAPI but as someone privileged to witness the incredible growth and transformation of this organization. It feels like just yesterday that a group of young individuals from Dumaguete, including myself, embarked on a journey to be more than just an atheist group. Little did we know that our paths would lead us to the doors of HAPI, an organization whose ideals resonated with our aspirations for a better world.
When I was made HAPI Youth Ambassador, I ventured into a national scope to empower young humanists, driven by the conviction that the youth are the catalysts for positive change. Yet, like any meaningful journey, mine was not without its challenges. There were moments when adversity and negativity sought to cloud my path, with some even attempting to gatekeep positions, attempting to thwart the progress we aimed to achieve. In those dark moments, it was tempting to consider walking away, but I realized that these were the very circumstances where I was needed the most.
In 2020, when HAPI faced a significant hardship, I was entrusted with the responsibility to step up and lead the organization through a pivotal period. I made the bold decision to relocate to the HAPI Headquarters in Bulacan for two years, leaving behind the familiar streets of Dumaguete City. During my tenure as CEO, we initiated fundamental changes—revamping policies for greater accountability, establishing a robust management structure for checks and balances, and fostering an approachable and receptive leadership.
The results of our collective efforts are awe-inspiring. We’ve executed nearly 100 projects and events, reaching over 7,000 individuals on the ground. From 4 chapters, we now proudly boast 8 active chapters. We’ve secured over 30 grants and witnessed an astounding dedication of over 10,000 volunteer hours—an equivalent of 416 days of unwavering commitment to our cause.
I would be remiss not to express my profound gratitude to Ms. M, who never doubted me and consistently pushed me toward greatness. The Executive Council, officers, leaders, members, and volunteers have stood by me through thick and thin. Your dedication is the bedrock upon which HAPI’s success rests.
To the new leaders who will now carry the torch, I am excited for the journey ahead. My hope is not for you to follow in my footsteps but to forge your path, one marked by even greater accomplishments. The potential within HAPI is boundless, and I am confident that you will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible.
As I step down from the role of CEO, please know that my heart remains intertwined with HAPI. I may no longer be at the forefront, but I will continue to clap and cheer from the background, a proud supporter of the incredible work that lies ahead.
In closing, I extend my deepest gratitude to every one of you who has been a part of this remarkable journey. Thank you for your unwavering support, dedication, and belief in the vision of HAPI. As we bid farewell to one chapter, I eagerly anticipate the stories and successes that the next chapter will undoubtedly bring.
Thank you, and may HAPI continue to shine brightly in the years to come.
