The Rise of Angat Buhay NGO
Days after the elections, some ‘kakampinks’ have been circling in the stages of grief. Some are in a constant state of fear and misery. Many have been coping with memes and crying. Others went on a social media detox. Yet many decided to remain hopeful for governance where all can rise. As the chant says “Sa gobyernong tapat, angat buhay lahat!”
TAYO ANG LIWANAG: Isang Pasasalamat.
On May 13, 2022, Presidential Candidate, incumbent Vice President Leni Robredo; and Vice Presidential Candidate, Senator Kiko Pangilinan called a thanksgiving event for the volunteers and their supporters—TAYO ANG LIWANAG: Isang Pasasalamat. No, it is not a victory party in a luxurious hotel. The event is for the volunteers and the people who have made the people’s campaign possible for a “Gobyernong Tapat, Angat Buhay Lahat”.
My friends and I went to the event. In LRT station 2, many people including us go down the Katipunan station. As we approach gate 1, I felt the sorrow of many. It has come clear to me that this is not temporary. A pink wave will surge.
At 5:00 P.M. the mass started. In the mass, everyone was quiet. Most of us are probably contemplating what is happening in our country and what could happen in the next 6 years.
Immediately upon the rite of peace. The crowds giggled. It was a humorous moment. From the peace sign, people gestured the heart sign or the ‘L’ sign.
The exciting part is yet to come.
At the start of the program, Senator Kiko came out and address the many. In his speech, the Senator calls for everyone to prepare for the next 2025 elections. He said that “We did not get this far, just to go this far”, and it was only the first quarter of the game. Apart from this, he expressed his gratitude to every volunteer and rally attendee.
The moment Vice President Leni set her foot on stage, people started shouting her name. In her speech, she addresses many questions regarding the election results. She guaranteed her supporters that they will not turn back without fighting a good fight.
After the announcement of the Angat Buhay Foundation, I witnessed the crowd go wild and free. Many are willing to volunteer, many are willing to contribute monetarily, and many are willing to share their skills and talents. We are here and nothing is gonna stop us now. Importantly, the speech sparked the light of many to continue the fight for good governance.
At the end of the program, artists such as Nica Del Rosario, Rivermaya, The Company, Yeng Constantino, Grace Note, Gab Valenciano, Gary Valenciano; and Ben & Ben performed for the people.
No efforts were wasted.
The people’s campaign has gone this far—from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. To the thousands of people who have attended rallies, spent their own money, and endured heat, rain, thirst, and hunger. No efforts are wasted. It is not the end. To all my fellow kakampinks, I encourage you to continue to fight your love for our country and countrymen. For the governance we truly deserve. Isang Gobyernong tapat, Angat Buhay lahat. As Vice President Leni said “Ang namulat, ‘di na muling mapipikit.”
