Cagayan volunteer worker nominated in Hong Kong Volunteer Movement Award

Civic organizer Herson Raquinio distributed relief packs during a charity event in Gattaran, Cagayan recently. (Contributed photo)

TUGUEGARAO CITY — A charity volunteer in Cagayan Valley has been named finalist in the 2020 Volunteer Movement Award, which is annually being awarded by the Social Welfare Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government.

Herson Raquinio, 2019 bronze awardee for the individual volunteer award last year in the same organization, announced this on Saturday.

“This is for the indigenous people. It has always been for them…I am unable to find the appropriate words to properly express the immense feeling of gratitude. Since I am at loss for words, it might be best to simply express my appreciation with a sincere and profound thank you,” he said.

The award-giving body recognizes individual volunteers and group volunteers in serving the community.

Each year, gold, silver, and bronze awards are awarded to committed individuals or groups to encourage volunteerism and recognize their committed services in passing on love and care in the community.

“We are writing this letter to let you know that your Project Lapis in Cagayan Valley, Philippines is again a finalist for the awards. Receiving this award will lift your charity work to new heights. The compassion you show to the indigenous learners you serve is an inspiration for us all,” the organization told Raquinio in a letter.

Last week, Raquinio’s Project Lapis distributed school supplies and snacks to 130 indigenous children.

Raquino’s team also joined police, medical workers, soldiers, and educators in giving relief packs to villagers and initiating a medical-dental mission or “Bayanihan sa Barangay” in far-flung Mabuno village in Gattaran, Cagayan.

JE