UnionBank brings arts experience to community partners

Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) hosted beneficiaries from Tahanang Walang Hagdanan Inc. (TWHI) and the QC Performing Arts Development Foundation Inc. (QCPADFI) for a special screening of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: The Musical at The Theatre at Solaire in July.

The activity, made possible through UnionBank’s partnership with GMG Productions, gave beneficiaries an opportunity to experience a major stage production while learning about the creative and technical elements behind a musical.

For QCPADFI, which nurtures the artistic talents of young performers, the screening provided its members with exposure to acting, stage direction, lighting and production design.

“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,” said Hanzel Estrella, program director of QCPADFI’s Vocal Ensemble.

Estrella said the event was significant because many QCPADFI members had not previously seen a globally renowned musical in a world-class venue.

The activity also built on UnionBank’s partnership with TWHI, which has focused on creating opportunities for persons with disabilities. In 2018, UnionBank established a satellite Command Center at TWHI’s Cainta, Rizal facility, providing IT and basic programming training that led to the hiring of PWD employees who continue to work remotely under the bank’s supervision.

“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,” said Erika D. Villaflores, TWHI public relations and fundraising officer.

The initiative forms part of UnionBank’s GoBeyond Communities program, its flagship corporate social responsibility initiative focused on empowering individuals and communities through opportunities intended to create lasting impact. The program is guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals on 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,” said Carl de Luzuriaga, UnionBank organizational development head.

De Luzuriaga said the bank aims to provide experiences that inspire confidence, broaden perspectives and reinforce the value of inclusion.

“At the heart of improving products and services is our care for the well-being of our communities. Meaningful experiences like these can open doors to inspiration, growth, and new possibilities,” he said.