Tayo: It’s you. It’s me. It’s us.

(video by Reanna Felix)

When we started this journey in April, most of us were strangers.

Some of us knew each other through other organizations or other prior interactions or collaborations.

Or we’ve traveled together to the Philippines through the Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO).

But the reality is that we have not all been in a room together physically. And we may not be able to anytime soon.

However that didn’t stop us.

We responded in the most Filipino way possible. We adapted and innovated.

We met virtually, used group texts, chats and slack to coordinate and communicate.

We called each other and checked in.

We used everything at our disposal to make sure we answer a higher calling — something that is rooted deep in our DNA and as a people to care — for everyone and each other.

That innovative spirit was harnessed into something that has left an impact on our Kababayans around the world — Caretaker Project and Tayo help desk.

Today, I can confidently say you’ve all become part of a larger and higher cause greater than any of us could have ever imagined.

I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again.

It’s been an honor to lead this team and I’m humbled by all of your support, talent and love you’ve given — to this project, your community, yourselves.

Tayo.

It’s you.

It’s me.

It’s us.

Time is blurry during these times but it’s also something you can’t get back.

You chose to work on this, spend time on this….. but I’d like to think it chose you too.