Efren Peñaflorida, Hailed Hero of the Year by CNN
Our very own “kababayan” Efren Peñaflorida has been awarded by CNN as 2009 Hero of the Year. The credit goes to his “Kariton Klasrum” (pushcart classroom) program which aims to educate poor young people in the depressed area in Northern Luzon. He is teaching them basic lessons in Mathematics, English and Science through his pushcart classroom.
Peñaflorida is the first Filipino being nominated for CNN Heroes’ award and at the same time the first Filipino to win the top prize. This project is on its third year of operation and specifically designed to give tribute to selfless humanitarian acts of individuals from different part of the world.
“Our planet is filled with heroes, young and old, rich and poor, man, woman of different colors, shapes and sizes. We are one great tapestry. Each person has a hidden hero within, you just have to look inside you and search it in your heart, and be the hero to the next one in need. So to each and every person inside in this theater and for those who are watching at home, the hero in you is waiting to be unleashed. Serve, serve well, serve others above yourself and be happy to serve. As I always tell to my co-volunteers … you are the change that you dream as I am the change that I dream and collectively we are the change that this world needs to be.”, Peñaflorida said during his acceptance speech.
Being the Hero of the Year, Peñaflorida has been awarded with cash worth $100,000. This cash prize will be used to fund his work in the Dynamic Teen Company (DTC), an organization of volunteers that he build up to conduct his “Kariton Klasrum” program.
Peñaflorida promised to continue this noble journey. He stands to be an example of underprivileged children who became a victim of violence and poverty. Seeing those children running towards him with a smile with his pushcart is already a reward for him and enough to compensate with his effort.
Peñaflorida brought the Filipino pride in the pedestal. He can be another icon for us in line with our boxing champion Manny Pacquiao. He is truly an inspiration to all of us. Peñaflorida on the other hand acknowledged the volunteers of Kariton Klassroom. For him, they are the true heroes.
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