ASHI at #DevTalk2026

Ahon sa Hirap, Inc. was honored to join #DevTalk 2026 last January 23, 2026, hosted by HIJOS Tours of CARD at the CARD MRI Development Institute, Inc. in Bay, Laguna. The event gathered innovators, advocates, and institutions committed to tackling poverty and advancing development.

ASHI was represented by Ms. Queenie Rose Bebida (English medium) and Mr. Adrian Castro (Filipino medium), who competed in the Microfinance and Development Organization Category by presenting their original public speaking pieces.  The qualifying round carried the theme “Microfinance and Poverty Eradication,” emphasizing how organizations can share experiences and strengthen communities through opportunity, education, and solidarity.

We are proud to share that Mrs. Queenie Rose Bebida qualified as a finalist, a recognition of her powerful delivery and the relevance of ASHI’s mission in the broader conversation on poverty eradication.

ASHI stood alongside CARD Bank, CARD Inc., ASA Philippines Foundation, K-Coop, People's Alternative Livelihood Microfinance Foundation of Sorsogon Inc. (PALMFSI), and Culion Foundation Inc. — different organizations with a shared vision for poverty eradication. This collective presence emphasized the importance of collaboration in building sustainable change.

Following the event, participants enjoyed a Heritage Tour in San Pablo, Laguna, with a side trip to Liliw, offering a glimpse of local culture and history that enriched the experience and reminded us that development is always rooted in community.

Our participation in #DevTalk 2026 reaffirmed ASHI’s commitment to building communities of hope and reminded everyone that true progress begins when people believe they are part of the change.

Photo credits: Hijos Tours https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14YM4bVAsD3/