The J. Amado Araneta Foundation (JAAF), the social development arm of the Araneta Group, proudly marked a significant milestone with the graduation of 38 students from the inaugural batch of the USAID CATALYZE Asia Social Protection (ASP) Philippines x iLEAP program. The culminating ceremony took place on October 28 at the Gateway Gallery, Araneta City.
This initiative provided specialized training to 59 Senior High School graduates from Pasig City under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). The Philippine Pizza Holdings, Inc. (PPI) spearheaded the training in food and beverage services, as well as cookery, equipping the students with essential skills to pursue roles such as waiters, food attendants, and other food service positions. Upon completing their training, the students will embark on work immersion programs at various Pizza Hut branches nationwide.
“On behalf of the J. Amado Araneta Foundation, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the graduates of the USAID CATALYZE ASP x iLEAP program,” said Diane Romero, Executive Director of JAAF. “Through their dedication and hard work, they are now equipped with valuable skills. Their upcoming work immersion at Pizza Hut will serve as a stepping stone towards self-sufficiency, helping them achieve their aspirations.”
Since 2021, JAAF has partnered with PPI for the Immersion Link for Enablers and Adapters Program (iLEAP). This collaboration deepened with the USAID CATALYZE ASP Activity, formalized during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on September 13 at Novotel Manila Araneta City.
The USAID CATALYZE ASP x iLEAP culminating ceremony was graced by JAAF Executive Director Diane Romero, JAAF Deputy Director Glenda Carlota, PPI Senior Vice President for Human Resources Rose Herrera, and Pizza Hut Gateway Mall 2 Restaurant General Manager Danmerbert Bumatay.
