Hope, wired and ready
Daily TribuneIt is not the grand proclamations that endure, but the simple acts of kindness that change lives.
Such an act unfolded today at the Lauran Vicuna Foundation in Manila, where Ambassador Eynat Shlein, head of Israel’s MASHAV, Israel's agency for international development, arrived not with fanfare, but with a gift of knowledge, opportunity, and hope.
With the official turnover of donated computers, she and her delegation did more than offer technology; they offered a future to young girls who have known too little of certainty, yet who dream still of brighter days.
The donation is part of MASHAV’s broader mission of capacity building, women’s empowerment, and sustainable development, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to supporting vulnerable communities in the Philippines.
“We believe in the foundation’s mission to empower young girls,” Shlein said. “Investing in their education is one of the best investments a development agency can make.”
The initiative aims to equip the girls with digital literacy skills, expanding their access to education, career opportunities, and personal development.
“By providing them with computers, we are not just giving them technology—we are opening doors to their future."
This act of generosity and is but one strand of the intricate tapestry of MASHAV's enduring friendship with the Philippines.
Over the years, Israel has trained thousands of Filipinos through various programs focusing on women empowerment, agriculture, water management, innovation, and healthcare.
“We have many training programs where we invite participants from the Philippines to Israel for professional development,” Shlein explained. “Each year, between 600 to 700 Filipinos receive specialized training in areas like agriculture, climate adaptation, and entrepreneurship.”
MASHAV also works directly with communities onsite, particularly in the agricultural sector.
“We have projects in various parts of the Philippines, and today, we are visiting a few farms built with grants from MASHAV graduates."
To strengthen cooperation, the ambassador met with key Philippine government officials to discuss future development projects.
“We work closely with both NGOs and the government to ensure that our programs align with local needs and priorities."
One of MASHAV’s core advocacies is women’s empowerment, recognizing that investing in women leads to stronger families, communities and economies.
A notable example is a women’s livelihood program in Naga and Mindoro, where rural women are trained in entrepreneurship, traditional crafts, and food production.
“These women are now making and selling products like jams, juices, and artisanal items,” Shlein said. “We provided them with equipment and training to help them market their products and gain financial independence.”
This initiative was spearheaded by a MASHAV graduate who trained in Israel before returning home to launch the project.
“She was inspired by her training in women’s entrepreneurship in Israel and used her knowledge to build a center where rural women could learn, produce and earn.”
MASHAV has also introduced health and emergency response programs specifically aimed at women in remote areas.
A key initiative is the “Hospital on a Bike” program, which equips female first responders with medical training and mobile emergency kits, allowing them to reach patients in isolated communities.
“Women are often the pillars of society, yet many are deprived of opportunities,” Shlein emphasized. “Empowering them is not just about fairness—it is a powerful tool for economic and social development.”
Shlein also highlighted the transformative role of technology in development cooperation.
“Innovation is embedded in everything we do—whether it’s agriculture, education, or climate adaptation,” she said.
MASHAV places a strong emphasis on digital education and innovation, ensuring that its training programs equip participants with modern, sustainable solutions.
“We integrate cutting-edge technology in all our projects, because innovation drives development,” she explained.
For the young girls at Lauran Vicuna Foundation, the donation represents far more than just access to computers—it is a gateway to knowledge, opportunities, and empowerment.
“By exposing them to digital tools and new ways of thinking, we are helping them dream bigger and achieve more,” Shlein said.
Reflecting on MASHAV’s deep-rooted presence in the Philippines, Shlein expressed admiration for the resilience and optimism of Filipinos.
“When you visit places like Lauran Vicuna, you see young girls who have endured difficult pasts, yet they remain hopeful and eager to learn,” she said. “That kind of optimism is inspiring—and it is why we must continue to support initiatives like these.”
More than just an aid provider, Israel sees itself as a long-term development partner for the Philippines.
“Development work is about building human connections. In 20 or 30 years, these girls will remember the assistance, education, and support they received—and that will leave a lasting imprint on their lives.”
With initiatives like these, MASHAV is not only strengthening bilateral ties but also ensuring that development cooperation leaves a meaningful impact for generations to come.