In a tribute to the enduring legacy of Dr. George S.K. Ty, the late founder of the Metrobank Group, the GT Foundation (GTFI) concluded the 2024 Dr. George S.K. Ty Bags of Blessing on November 19, 2024, at the San Roque de Pasay Parish in Pasay City. The event was led by members of the Ty family, Martin Dy Buncio and Matthew Dy Buncio, GTFI Executive Director Aniceto Sobrepeña and Deputy Executive Director Philip Francisco Dy, with support from executive officers of various Metrobank subsidiaries, including First Metro Investment Corporation, GT Capital Holdings, Federal Land, Orix Metro Leasing, Manila Doctors Hospital, and Manila Tytana Colleges.

Running from November 9 to 19, 2024, the Bags of Blessing initiative reached 20 sites across the Philippines, distributing PhP 10 million worth of food packages to 10,000 families. Beneficiaries in the National Capital Region (NCR) included Makati, Pasay, Taguig, Manila, and Quezon City, while communities outside NCR, such as General Trias in Cavite, Puerto Princesa in Palawan, and Naga City in Camarines Sur, also received aid. The initiative extended further to Cebu City, Cotabato City, and Davao del Sur. Furthermore, a special outreach to Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea was also conducted, where 200 Bags of Blessing food packages were provided to families and military personnel stationed on the remote island.

This year’s distribution was made possible through the collaboration of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Caritas Manila, Caritas Philippines, GT Capital Holdings, and select Metrobank branches. Each Bags of Blessing package, with food items valued at PhP 1,000, was specifically intended for vulnerable groups, including indigenous communities, those impacted by natural disasters, and underserved communities.

Inspired by the Chinese tradition of giving “ang-pao” (red envelopes) as symbols of prosperity, Bags of Blessing offers a modern interpretation of this custom. The green bags, filled with food items, not only symbolize good fortune but also provide tangible support to those in need. Although traditionally celebrated during Chinese New Year, this initiative has become an annual event, each year serving as a lasting tribute to Dr. George S.K. Ty’s commitment to improving the lives of underprivileged Filipinos.

During his address, Sobrepeña emphasized the continued importance of honoring Dr. Ty’s legacy through such initiatives. He remarked, “It is with great pride that we gather today as we mark the sixth anniversary of Dr. George S.K. Ty’s passing, coinciding with the Catholic observance of the World Day of the Poor. The Bags of Blessing reflects our steadfast commitment as a private sector, led by Metrobank and GT Capital Group, to reach out and offer assistance to those in need.”

The GT Foundation and Metrobank Foundation remain dedicated to supporting Filipino families, continuing the tradition of compassion and generosity, with a commitment to uphold these values in the years to come.

 

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Featured photo: On November 19, 2024, the GT Foundation, in collaboration with the executive officers of Metrobank subsidiaries and volunteers, came together with a shared mission to spread compassion during the culminating activity of Dr. George S.K. Ty Bags of Blessing at San Roque de Pasay Parish.

Tags: Bags of Blessing, Gt foundation