Message from the Chairperson

In July 1975, nearly three years after the declaration of Martial Law, the government’s promise of a progressive new society remained unfulfilled. It was in this climate of uncertainty that Howard Q. Dee (HQD) and Fr. Fritz Araneta founded the Assisi Development Foundation (ADF) to pursue development programs focused on the poor.

Over the past five decades, ADF has implemented a wide range of initiatives, which includes sustainable agriculture, educational assistance, child nutrition, disaster relief and rehabilitation, microfinance for women entrepreneurs, and the empowerment of indigenous communities. Yet despite these efforts, the struggle to alleviate poverty in the Philippines continues.

Although HQD is no longer with us, his commitment to improving the lives of marginalized Filipinos never wavered. He was eagerly anticipating Assisi’s 50th anniversary and, for a time, was concerned that the foundation’s corporate charter would expire in 2025. He even considered establishing a new foundation. But upon learning that renewal was no longer necessary, he pressed on with renewed energy, convinced that ADF still had more to contribute.

Today, Assisi’s lean but dedicated staff remains committed to realizing HQD’s vision for the country. Our goals include:

1. Improving child nutrition and growth,

2. Supporting farmers to improve yields and secure fair market access,

3. Assisting college students to complete their education and gain employment, and

4. Empowering indigenous communities to reach their full potential while protecting their ancestral lands.

   
   

Ending poverty was HQD’s constant prayer—an aspiration that may seem impossible, yet one he pursued with unwavering hope. On the night he received the Ramon V. del Rosario Award for Nation Building, he dedicated it, in his typical selflessness, to his balae, Ninoy Aquino. None of us knew he would leave us the very next day—August 21, Ninoy Aquino Day.

Both Howard Dee and Ninoy Aquino embodied a profound love for country. May we follow their lead and live to simply love our country. Let us each do our part—no matter how small—to help build a nation where every Filipino is cared for.