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PEOPLE ARE
reluctant to be called heroes. The
responsibility that comes with the title is just too
overwhelming. And in the wake of recent tragic
events — such as the late DILG Secretary Jesse
Robredo’s sudden passing, which eclipsed the
amazing stewardship he displayed in his lifetime
—
it seems blasphemous to use the word lightly.
The individuals profiled here don’t want to be
called heroes. But by heeding the call of their
hearts, stepping out of their comfort zones, and
doing what they normally do with a little more
vigor, they’ve managed to reap positive change
for Filipinos, even discovering other unsung
heroes along the way.
What do these people
have in common? They , re
everyday folks who are
effecting positive change
for
kababayan
and country.
Here, they share the lessons
they , ve learned so far — and
some hard-won wisdom to
take to heart.
By Maya O. Calica
Photos by At Maculangan
The hero’s
journey
Chary Mercado
and friends volunteer
to teach inmates at
a local city jail
