What does it take to change a nation?

It begins with small, everyday acts of kindness. Imagine a neighbor helping unload sacks of rice, a friend setting up a Facebook fundraiser for a sick loved one, or volunteers braving chest-deep floodwaters to carry children, the elderly, or those with disabilities to safety. These simple, often overlooked acts reflect core Filipino values of kapwa (shared identity) and bayanihan (communal unity)—values that have long been the foundation of Filipino society.

Volunteerism is not only a reflection of our values but also a key driver in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Philippines. To nurture a culture of volunteerism, iVolunteer Philippines was created—a platform built by volunteers for volunteers. It bridges the gap between volunteers and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), offering a practical way for individuals to contribute their time and skills to causes that need support.

Every December, iVolunteer Philippines hosts DestiNasyon, one of its flagship Volunteer Education programs, to commemorate the International Volunteer Day. The event serves as a platform for Filipinos to find their advocacy and explore how they can personally contribute to solutions for both local and global challenges. In celebration of the organization's 15th anniversary, DestiNasyon 2024 expanded into a two-day event held on December 6-7 at De La Salle University in Manila and Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao in Davao. It focused on deepening understanding of the SDGs—particularly People, Planet, and Prosperity—while connecting local volunteer efforts to global goals.

The event began with a Volunteerism 101 session that introduced the fundamentals of volunteerism, followed by an Introduction to SDGs, where participants explored how their individual actions contribute to achieving global goals. Impact Talks, a series of engaging presentations, focused on the SDG pillars of People, Planet, and Prosperity, highlighting the crucial role of volunteerism in addressing education, environmental stewardship, and social equity. The Volunteer Simulation Activity provided a hands-on opportunity for attendees to work directly with partner NGOs and learn how they could meaningfully contribute to various causes. They also had the opportunity to learn from established leaders in community service, including Peter Perfecto, Vice President of PHINMA Corporation, who shared thoughtful reflections on the vital link between volunteerism and national development. He emphasized that a nation's aspirations are realized when individuals dedicate themselves to service with a genuine love for their country. He encouraged participants to view volunteerism as not just a means to address societal challenges but as a way to express patriotism and a commitment to the common good.  DestiNasyon 2024 also featured a Forum on Partnership (SDG 17), underscoring the importance of collaboration among governments, corporations, academe, NGOs, and individuals in achieving the SDGs. Participants also joined Roundtable Discussions that explored actionable solutions within the SDG pillars, including topics such as Ensuring Quality Education for Future Generations, Reducing Plastic Waste for a Sustainable Manila, and Advancing Sustainable Livelihoods. These sessions not only deepened attendees’ engagement with real-world issues but also fostered collaboration and shared responsibility.

A key moment of the event was the recognition of the iVolunteer Champions, individuals who embody iVolunteer Philippines' core values. Paolo Miguel Ordonio, Champion for Integrity, promotes media literacy with the Break the Fake Movement. Ryan Juntilla Madamba, Champion for Professionalism, established a local school and supports education through the Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation. Dr. Celine Guillermo, Champion for Inclusivity, advocates for children with intellectual disabilities through the Tinatangi Project. Armyr Encarnacion, Champion for Nationalism, leads JCI Batangas Balisong and uplifts communities with programs like Gawad Balisong. James Nathaniel Refugio, Champion for Change Leadership, advocates for climate justice and empowers youth through the Act Now for Ranow Movement and Bicolano Young Leaders Congress. These everyday heroes have made a real difference, touching lives and leaving a positive mark on their communities.

DestiNasyon 2024 was more than just an event—it was a call to action, urging Filipinos to recognize their potential as agents of change. As we continue to face complex challenges in our society, DestiNasyon 2024 reinforced the idea that every Filipino has a role to play in building a better Philippines—one act of kindness at a time.