Leading OFWs Beyond: JCI Manila Empowers Modern-Day Heroes Through Financial Literacy

In a country powered by the sacrifices of its modern-day heroes, JCI Manila once again stepped forward to create meaningful impact—this time, for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) preparing for, or returning from, life abroad.

On April 24, 2026, JCI Manila launched Project Leading OFWs Beyond, a focused initiative designed to equip OFWs with essential financial knowledge and renewed motivation. Held at the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in Makati, the program brought together aspiring and returning OFWs for a day centered on empowerment, preparation, and growth.

Because in JCI Manila, we don’t just serve communities—
we Lead Beyond borders.

At the heart of the initiative was Project Chairman Art Ang and Vice-Chairman John David Roque, whose vision was to address one of the most critical needs of OFWs: financial literacy. While many Filipinos leave the country in pursuit of better opportunities, not all are equipped with the knowledge needed to manage their finances effectively and sustainably.

This is where the project made its impact.

Through a series of engaging talks, participants were guided on how to:

• Manage and grow their income
• Build savings and financial security
• Make informed decisions for their future

The sessions were led by speakers Enro Mendoza and Sen. Lec Toribio, who delivered both practical financial insights and motivational messages that resonated deeply with the audience.

Their talks went beyond numbers—they spoke to purpose.

Because financial literacy is not just about money.
It is about freedom.
It is about security.
It is about building a future worth coming home to.

This is what it means to Lead Beyond knowledge—into empowerment.

The event was strongly supported by key leaders of JCI Manila, including Pres. Edison Ke, Matt Flores, and SG Roberto Ben M. Castro, alongside directors Vjohn Dizon, James Sia, Alf Yaptinchay, and Erwin Bolivar.

They were joined by active members      John David Roque, Mike Fangre, JK Magracia, Sean Ballada, Karlo Yu, and Gerard Sebastian, all of whom showed up in support of the initiative.

Their presence reflected a shared commitment: to stand with OFWs not only as beneficiaries, but as partners in nation-building.

This is what it means to Lead Beyond service—into solidarity.

Throughout the program, the atmosphere was both hopeful and empowering. Participants listened intently, asked questions, and engaged with the speakers—eager to absorb knowledge that could directly impact their lives.

For many, the session was more than just a seminar.

It was a moment of clarity.
A moment of preparation.
A moment of confidence.

Because when OFWs are equipped with the right tools and mindset, they are not just workers abroad—they become empowered individuals capable of building better futures for themselves and their families.

This is what it means to Lead Beyond the next generation—into global impact.

As the program concluded, one thing became clear:

Project Leading OFWs Beyond is more than an initiative.

It is a commitment.

A commitment to uplift those who sacrifice for their families.
A commitment to equip them for long-term success.
A commitment to ensure that every Filipino, no matter where they are in the world, has the opportunity to thrive.

Because in JCI Manila, leadership knows no borders.

And this is how we continue to Lead Beyond.