JAAF X PPI FOR iLEAP CATALYZE

The Araneta Group, through its social development arm, the J. Amado Araneta Foundation (JAAF), is committed to fostering inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment, and decent work opportunities for all Filipino youth. By collaborating with diverse stakeholders, JAAF strives to equip disadvantaged youth with the skills and resources to overcome economic challenges and achieve self-sufficiency.

JAAF works with Philippine Pizza Holdings, Inc (PPI) for the Immersion Link for Enablers and Adapters Program (iLEAP) since 2021. This partnership was expanded for the USAID CATALYZE Asia Social Protection (ASP) Activity during the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Understanding last 13 September 2024 at Novotel Manila Araneta City.

The iLEAP x USAID CATALYZE ASP project aims to reduce poverty, spur economic growth, and contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future for everyone. Seventy (70) Senior High School graduates of Pasig City, belonging to the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), will be trained by PPI on food and beverage services and cookery to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to become qualified waiters, food attendants, and other food-related service roles. Moreover, participants who have completed the program will be given the opportunity for potential employment within one of PPI’s 300 stores nationwide, namely Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, or Dairy Queen.

Present during the ceremonial signing are JAAF’s Executive Director, Christine Diane Romero; PPI’s Chief Operating Officer, Chacha Juinio; PPI’s Senior Vice President for Human Resource, Rose Herrera; ACI Inc’s Senior Executive Consultant and JAAF Trustee, Rowell Recinto; and ACI Inc’s Senior Vice President for Business Development, John Castelo.

“This is the right opportunity for JAAF and PPI to pay forward. The iLEAP x USAID CATALYZE ASP capital mobilization program is something that the Araneta Group is proud of as it extols the dignity of labor,” said Mr. Rowell Recinto.

“This partnership is perfect for Pizza Hut’s Social purpose of giving ‘Equal Slice for Everyone’. Early on we have identified the disadvantaged youth as the most relevant area to focus our social purpose. We found the perfect partner in iLEAP x USAID CATALYZE ASP that as they provide the resources and expertise in running this program, we provide the venue and pathways to unlock more economic and professional opportunities for the beneficiaries of this program,” added Ms. Chacha Juinio.

USAID CATALYZE is on its 8th year of the program, with presence in 39 countries. In the Philippines, USAID CATALYZE ASP aims to improve employment and access to health for low-income graduates belonging to the 4Ps by empowering them with employable skills, vital health knowledge, and improved access to essential services.