Project Phil: Transforming Lives Through Education, Aid, and Compassion

Malou Laxamana Pascual — March 12, 2025

Project Phil: Transforming Lives Through Education, Aid, and Compassion

Project Phil is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating, feeding, and caring for underprivileged students and families across the Philippines. Founded by husband and wife team, Cathy Valeros and Ben Pousty, the organization has grown into a community of over 500 global donors and volunteers committed to making a tangible difference. 


Our Mission and Values


At the heart of Project Phil lies a commitment to delivering educational opportunities and humanitarian aid to those in need. The organization operates with a 100% pledge, ensuring that all public donations go directly to their charitable programs. 


This dedication stems from personal experiences and a desire to effect meaningful change in the world.Inspiration Behind Project Phil


The inception of Project Phil traces back to a 2016 medical mission in Pampanga, Philippines. Witnessing the profound impact that even small acts of giving could achieve, Cathy and Ben were inspired to establish an organization that could amplify these efforts on a larger scale. This pivotal experience led to the birth of Project Phil, which has been expanding its reach and impact ever since. 


Our Team


The strength of Project Phil lies in its dedicated team:


  • Co-Founder: Cathy Valeros
  • Co-Founder & Board Chairman: Ben Pousty
  • Creative Director: Erin O’Donnell
  • Director, Aid Program: Vicky Sureta
  • Aid Program Coordinator: Adrienne Barno


The organization also benefits from the expertise of its board members, including Kim Petry (CFO), Marissa Millman (Secretary), Carmencita Ramos La Serre (Mater Dei Academy Liaison), Beatrice O'Carroll, and YinFeng Shao. 


Educational Initiatives


Since its inception, Project Phil has been a staunch advocate for quality education. The organization has awarded over 300 scholarships to deserving students, covering tuition, books, and learning supplies. By partnering with institutions like Mater Dei Academy, Project Phil identifies underprivileged public school students with strong academic records and provides them with the resources they need to succeed. 


Humanitarian Aid Programs


Beyond education, Project Phil addresses the immediate needs of families living in extreme poverty. The organization delivers food, medicines, hygiene products, and other essentials to communities in Manila, Baguio, Tagaytay, and beyond. By working closely with local leaders and empowering them to lead humanitarian aid efforts, Project Phil ensures that aid is both effective and culturally sensitive. 


Get Involved


Project Phil's mission thrives on the generosity of donors and the dedication of volunteers. Whether through financial contributions or volunteer work, there are numerous ways to get involved and make a difference. With the assurance that all public donations are directed entirely to charitable programs, supporters can be confident that their contributions have a direct impact on the lives of those in need. 


In essence, Project Phil exemplifies how compassion, when combined with action, can transform lives and uplift communities across the Philippines.

Give the Gift of Education and Humanitarian Aid

100% of your tax-deductible donation supports educating, feeding and caring for underprivileged students and families living in extreme poverty across the Philippines.

Make a Donation
Time to Pass the Torch: Why Political Comebacks Are Not the Answer
By Malou Laxamana Pascual May 5, 2025
As the May 12 election nears, a quiet but growing movement is making itself heard in Baguio City. It does not come from the traditional campaign stage or the usual political dynasties. It is not funded by machinery or driven by name recall. It comes from the ground, from the young, and from those who are tired of the cycle. Tired of the same names, the same faces, the same families. Tired of watching opportunity slip away as public service is reduced to a personal brand.
ASEAN bloc called on to protect journalists, media freedom
By Art Dumlao May 4, 2025
ASEAN bloc called on to protect journalists, media freedom
Abra lawmaker tops RPMD Foundation’s job performance assessment
By Art Dumlao May 3, 2025
Abra lawmaker Menchie Bernos bested five of her Cordillera congressmen-colleagues at the most recent job performance assessment ‘Boses ng Bayan' by RPMD Foundation Inc. (RPMD).