Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks Start of Dulag Dream Generation Academy Construction

FundLife, in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Dulag and community leaders, officially launched the construction of the Dulag Dream Generation Academy through a groundbreaking activity held on May 7, 2025, at Brgy. Rawis, Dulag, Leyte. The event marked a significant milestone in the organization’s mission to create safe, supportive, and climate-resilient learning spaces for vulnerable children and youth in the municipality.

The ceremony commenced with an Opening Message from Ms. Kimberly Lopez, FundLife’s Head of Operations, who emphasized the importance of creating spaces where young people can thrive, learn, and dream in color. She also expressed deep appreciation for the support extended by the community and local government stakeholders in bringing the vision of the Academy to life.

Special messages followed, with heartfelt remarks from Hon. Leysa Capongcol, Chairman of Brgy. Rawis, and Hon. Jeric Tumandao, Chairman of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) and SK Federation President of Dulag, Leyte. Both leaders highlighted the positive impact the project will have on the community, especially in empowering the younger generation. Representing the Dulag LGU, Engr. Restituto Polillo, Jr., also shared the LGU’s support and encouragement for the initiative, underscoring the municipality’s commitment to inclusive, community-driven development.

One of the symbolic highlights of the day was the Ceremonial Dig, led by key officials from FundLife, Brgy. Rawis, SK, and the team of architects, Arch. Brian Inciso and Arch. Ryan Aniano, behind the Academy’s design. This was followed by the Ceremonial Kick, a nod to FundLife’s use of football and purposeful play as tools for education and empowerment. The kick was jointly performed by project stakeholders, symbolizing unity and collaboration.

To celebrate the occasion, exhibition futsal games were held featuring young learners from different partner communities and schools — Cabacungan National High School, Dulag National High School, Rawis Elementary School, and the Brgy. Rawis Community. The games served as a joyful reminder of the role of play in nurturing leadership, teamwork, and resilience among youth.

The Dulag Dream Generation Academy is envisioned to be a beacon of hope and opportunity — a child-first, community-centered space that will support holistic development through play and mentorship sessions. FundLife extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Local Government Unit of Dulag, the community leaders of Brgy. Rawis, and all youth champions who continue to walk alongside the organization in its mission. This shared milestone is not just the beginning of a new structure but the beginning of a dream made real — built by the community, for the community.