Community Chest marks 60th year

MANILA, Philippines - The heroism of Judge Ralph Lee and teenager Muelmar Magallanes at the height of tropical storm “Ondoy ”is the special feature of the 60th anniversary celebration of the Community Chest Foundation, Inc. (CCFI) and its Christmas get-together tomorrow at the Old CCFI Building in Malate.

Its theme “In Search of Heroes” was inspired by the bravery of Judge Lee, who with his jetski saved 100 lives in Sta. Monica, Novaliches; and Magallanes who swam and saved 30 lives in Barangay Bagong Silangan in Quezon City, but lost his life when he swam back to save a baby and her mother who were being swept away. Both heroes will receive the CCFI Medal of Valor with Muelmar to be represented by his mother, Maria Luz. The awarding ceremonies will be led by Bo Mirani, CCFI chair emeritus.

The book “A Message to Our Leaders,” a compilation of prize-winning orations by students in the 5th CCFI Oratorical Contest for college students held in February 2008, will be launched. Ada Peñaflor of Far Eastern University, the contest champion, will deliver her prize-winning piece.

Founded in 1949, CCFI is a non-stock, non-profit welfare and civic organization. The CCFI board is headed by Judge Rizalina Bonifacio Vera (chair) and Pablo Ronquillo (president), and includes Orlando Peña, Rosario Villar, Pishu Dialani, Nellie Mercado, Ma. Corazon Gamallo, Cindy Dollente Ang, Jose Mars Alcruz, Florida Jose, Angelito Manalili, Cesar Ochoa, Lourdes Pimentel and Aleli Villena Sevilla.