UnionBank brings arts experience to community partners at Solaire

Insider Spotlight

• UnionBank brought beneficiaries of two community partners to a special screening of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: The Musical at The Theatre at Solaire
• The initiative included young performers from QCPADFI and persons with disabilities from Tahanang Walang Hagdanan
• The activity forms part of UnionBank’s GoBeyond Communities corporate social responsibility program
  
  
  
  

Union Bank of the Philippines is using the performing arts to broaden learning and inclusion opportunities for communities, bringing beneficiaries of two partner organizations to a special theater experience.

Beneficiaries from Tahanang Walang Hagdanan Inc. (TWHI) and the QC Performing Arts Development Foundation Inc. (QCPADFI) attended a screening of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: The Musical at The Theatre at Solaire in July. The activity was made possible through UnionBank’s long-standing partnership with GMG Productions.

Why it matters

For QCPADFI’s young performers, the production provided exposure to acting, stage direction, lighting and production design, offering lessons in creativity, confidence and self-expression beyond entertainment.

"I know that our organization, particularly the kids, can pick up lessons from this experience. They can deeply absorb the lessons, especially since they will have to go through life after this. This is a memorable experience for them," QCPADFI Vocal Ensemble program director Hanzel Estrella said in a press statement.

Many QCPADFI members were watching a globally renowned musical in a world-class venue for the first time.

Beyond employment

The outing also extended UnionBank’s partnership with TWHI beyond employment. In 2018, the bank established a satellite Command Center at TWHI’s Cainta, Rizal facility, providing IT and basic programming training that resulted in the hiring of PWD employees.

"This gave us a chance to see and experience a different environment since we're usually just in the compound. It's a great way to take a break and relax from the stresses of our work and personal lives," TWHI public relations and fundraising officer Erika D. Villaflores said.

What’s next

The initiative falls under UnionBank’s flagship GoBeyond Communities CSR program, which focuses on opportunities linked to education, employment and livelihood, environment and inclusion.

"One way to uplift the lives of our beneficiaries, particularly those from underserved communities, is to create meaningful opportunities and experiences. This is a good platform for them and a meaningful way for UnionBank to connect with the communities we serve," UnionBank organizational development head Carl De Luzuriaga said.

UnionBank said it plans to continue expanding GoBeyond Communities initiatives aimed at helping people learn, thrive and participate more fully in society. —Vanessa Hidalgo| Ed: Corrie S. Narisma