“There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship.” -Thomas Aquinas
On 02 May 2026, Project Kuwago gathered in Barangay Lourdes, Baguio City, to conduct an outreach program that included Project Mangkok, a feeding program that offers satisfying and nourishing food to children; and Project Dunong, a program specifically designed to foster motivation and compassion.
The project served as the outreach project of the New Louisian Philosophical Society (NEOLOUPHIS) of Saint Louis University’s (SLU) Department of Philosophy. This initiative sought to speak a language of holistic friendship rooted not in mere sentiment, but in a shared orientation toward the good within oneself and others. It fostered true friendship, formed when people are drawn together by their mutual love of what is genuinely good and rooted in virtue. This was evident not only among the project’s constituents but also in its facilitators, who came to Lourdes with humility and a genuine drive for service.
Project Kuwago arose from the development of NEOLOUPHIS, which extended beyond the four walls of the classroom over the years. It puts theory into practice through a community sustained by values that carry and transmit the habits of goodness across generations.
The culminating program of Project Kuwago signifies the initiation of multiple projects and opportunities for the community, particularly for the children of the Barangay. It reinforces the partnership between NEOLOUPHIS, the Department of Philosophy of Saint Louis University, and the community, opening avenues for further expansion of Project Kuwago. Among the forthcoming initiatives are Philosophy for Children and Children of Ecology, both envisioned as future projects. These endeavours aim to cultivate philosophical engagement among young learners, with Philosophy for Children introducing accessible philosophical inquiry, and Children of Ecology fostering environmental awareness by making philosophy practical and comprehensible in the everyday lives of children.
Project Kuwago will continue to soar, ever ready to render its service to the community. This reflects the enduring commitment of the organization to spread compassion and friendship among children, who embody the hope of the future. Reaching and touching their lives creates an impact not only on their present circumstances but also extends far into the future, as they themselves will carry forward this hope. The seed of hope instilled in their minds through the organization’s efforts will serve as a catalyst for change, inspiring them to share friendship, love, and hope with others.
Project Kuwago aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals’ SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), and SDG 17 (Partnership for the Goals).(Article by Victor Marcos | Photos by Neolouphis)
