The Vanguard Posted on Mar. 17, 2026 at 11:50 am
QUEZON CITY, Metro Manila — The GMA Kapuso Foundation (GMAKF) and the Universal Guardians Brotherhood (UGB) have officially joined forces to enhance their initiatives of delivering disaster relief operations across the country.
The partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed during the UGB’s 4th APEX General Assembly held in Cubao, Quezon City, on March 15.
Signing on behalf of GMA Kapuso Foundation was Atty. Jose Vener Ibarra, GMA Assistant Vice President for Litigation and Special Projects, who represented GMAKF Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Ms. Rikki Escudero-Catibog. UGB President and Universal Grand Master Founder Melvin “UGMF Isaac” Contapay signed for the brotherhood.
Witnessing the agreement were Ms. Tracy Cruz, GMAKF Program Development and Support Assistant Manager; Lt. Gen. Rolando “SGF Rolly” Bautista, AFP (Ret.), Universal Parliament Consultant; and other key officers of the UGB.
Under the agreement, the UGB will support GMAKF’s Operation Bayanihan disaster relief efforts by providing volunteer manpower for repacking activities and assisting with transportation in areas where they have a presence. The collaboration is designed to streamline the logistics of aid delivery, ensuring that help reaches communities affected by calamities more quickly and efficiently.
“We are reinforcing our commitment to humanitarian service. By working hand-in-hand with GMA Kapuso Foundation, the Universal Guardians Brotherhood aims to give hope to Filipinos affected by calamities nationwide,” Contapay said.
The Universal Guardians Brotherhood (UGB) is a socio-civic organization of retired soldiers, policemen, and civilians united by a mission to serve communities in need. With active chapters in provinces including Southern Leyte, Catanduanes, and Cebu, the group’s disciplined volunteer base and broad geographic presence are expected to significantly enhance the GMAKF’s emergency response capabilities, particularly in reaching remote areas.
“This Memorandum of Agreement signing between the GMA Kapuso Foundation and the Universal Guardians Brotherhood is a significant event that bridges media-driven philanthropy with a grassroots, community-oriented brotherhood,” Contapay said. — The Vanguard
(Photo courtesy: Bong Contapay)
