Not everyone knows my story, but let me share a piece of my heart today.
I grew up in Subic Bay Children’s Home—a place that didn’t just give me shelter, but also shaped me into the person I am now. Dito ko unang narinig at natutunan ang Word of God, and it became my foundation in life. It was here where I learned discipline, hard work, and what it truly means to ‘work like a man’ even at a young age.
Life inside wasn’t always easy. Maraming pagsubok, maraming luha, but also countless lessons and memories that I will treasure forever. This home taught me the realities of life—that nothing is handed to you, that you have to fight for your dreams, and that faith in God will always be your greatest weapon.
And even when I wasn’t living there anymore, dala ko pa rin ang lahat ng aral at pagmamahal na natutunan ko sa loob. The people here treated us with the kind of love and care that we should have felt from our real parents—but it was only here that we truly experienced it. That’s why this place will forever be my home.
Ptr Odek-Annalisa Valbuena, Ptr tatay Teddy-Ligaya Fulfer, Nanay Ligaya Fulfer, Kahit matigas ang ulo ko, makulit, at pasaway, minahal n’yo pa rin ako at tinuring na tunay na pamilya. Hindi ko kayo makakalimutan, at hinding-hindi ko mababayaran ang lahat ng kabutihan at pagmamahal na ibinigay n’yo sa akin.
To the people who raised us, guided us, and treated us like family, salamat. Hindi matutumbasan ng kahit ano ang ginawa ninyo para sa amin. Because of this home, I carry with me not just strength and courage, but also love and gratitude that I hope to share with others.
Subic Bay Children’s Home will always be more than just a place—it’s where I found faith, hope, love, and the courage to dream big. Forever thankful and proud to have been raised there.”