Caritas Philippines names Ben&Ben as new Alay Kapwa ambassadors on its 50th anniversary

Manila, Philippines – Alay Kapwa, the flagship Lenten program of Caritas Philippines, marks its 50th year of selfless service to Filipinos in need with a renewed call for unity and compassion.

Since its founding, Alay Kapwa has impacted millions of lives – feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, caring for the sick, and supporting students in pursuit of their dreams. As it celebrates five decades of faith in action, Alay Kapwa launches its most ambitious initiative yet: the BE 1N A MILLION campaign, which aims to rally one million donor-partners nationwide.

"Today, we celebrate a momentous milestone – 50 years of Alay Kapwa," said Most Rev. Jose Colin Bagaforo, D.D., President of Caritas Philippines. "For five decades, this Lenten program has grown from a simple call for charity into a nationwide movement for faith in action, mercy, and compassion. From the iconic white envelopes distributed in churches during Palm Sunday to saving and changing lives."

He continued, "Alay Kapwa gave us hope, ignited our love and concern for one another, and strengthened our faith in God and each other."

The announcement was made during the Sa Kapwa Ko ay Alay: 50 Taon ng Pag-asa event held on June 4 at the University of Santo Tomas, a long-time partner of Caritas Philippines and the historic seat of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).

With the BE 1N A MILLION campaign, Alay Kapwa calls on Filipinos from all walks of life to contribute – not only from their abundance, but from their compassion – by sharing their time, talent, and treasure to uplift the poor and vulnerable.

"To our young people: this is your moment. You can be part of something bigger – right here, right now," Bishop Bagaforo added.

In line with its golden jubilee celebration, Alay Kapwa also welcomed acclaimed folk-pop band Ben&Ben's Paolo and Miguel Benjamin Guico as its newest mission advocates. Known for their meaningful music and advocacy work, the duo brings fresh energy to the campaign – especially in engaging the youth.

Ben&Ben's deep ties to Alay Kapwa began in childhood, through the example of their mother who was a long-time volunteer with Caritas Philippines.

"Ben&Ben's music speaks to the soul, and their values – of love, hope, and community – are deeply aligned with our mission," said Bishop Bagaforo. "Their presence in this campaign will help us reach new generations and inspire many more to live out the true spirit of Alay Kapwa."

As part of the celebration, Ben&Ben performed the newly launched Alay Kapwa anthem "Sa Kapwa Ko Ay Alay", written by Robert Labayen, composed by Jonathan Manalo, and premiered live at the event. The official music video also debuted simultaneously on Alay Kapwa's Facebook page.

To further raise awareness and support, Alay Kapwa will hold a special anniversary fundraising concert featuring Ben&Ben on July 8 at the Araneta Coliseum. The concert is expected to be a night of music, inspiration, and solidarity – bringing together Filipinos in support of a mission that has served the country for five decades.

For updates and more information on how to become an Alay Kapwa Donor-Partner, visit:

🌐 https://caritas.org.ph
📘 Facebook: Alay Kapwa Official
📸 Instagram: @caritas_phl