The last day of National Children’s Book Month was made extra special for me this year. On that morning, I had the privilege of donating 11 copies each of my children’s books, Maliit na ang Palda ni Isay and Pasko Pa Rin, to the 11 Child Development Centers (daycare centers) of Barangay Marcelo Green.

What made this outreach more meaningful was the presence of my middle child, Mateo, who accompanied me and even served as my photographer throughout the event. Since it was held in the morning, I truly appreciated his effort to wake up early and come with me to give his support. It warmed my heart to see him not only by my side, but also witnessing firsthand how small acts of generosity can make a difference in the lives of children.

A few days before the end of July, I received confirmation from the Barangay secretary that I could do this book donation during their Nutrition Month celebration. It felt like God’s perfect timing — combining the month-long celebration of books with the important advocacy of health and nutrition for children. I couldn’t help but feel happy and grateful for this opportunity to contribute in my own little way to the holistic growth of the young children in our community.

I was also glad to personally meet the teachers in charge of each Child Development Center. What made it even more special was that I was able to personally hand the books to each one of them. Their dedication and service to the children of Marcelo Green inspired me and gave me even more hope that the books I donated would be used well in nurturing both the minds and values of the young learners entrusted to their care.

This activity is also part of the series of outreaches that I am doing to celebrate my jubilee year, my 50th birthday. The first outreach I did when I turned 50 years old this year was last July also at the Marcelo Green Elementary School. You may read about this outreach here. As I mark this milestone, I feel called to share my blessings and be a bearer of hope and joy to others in ways both big and small.

This outreach was made possible with the help of my immediate family and friends who continue to believe in my advocacy and support my efforts to help poor children through values formation and improving literacy in the Philippines. Their faith in me and their solidarity motivate and strengthen me, reminding me that this mission is not mine alone, but one that we can carry out together as a community of compassionate hearts.

Books have the power to open young minds, nurture imagination, and plant seeds of values that can guide children as they grow. Through Maliit na ang Palda ni Isay and Pasko Pa Rin, I pray that the children of Marcelo Green will be inspired to embrace creativity, kindness, and resilience. With this donation, Christmas came early to the little ones who go to these child develeopment centers.

As an author and a mother, moments like these remind me why I write and why I continue to find ways to share my work. It’s not just about telling stories — it’s about building bridges of hope and joy through the written word.

May these donated books become companions in the children’s learning journey and may they spark a love for reading that lasts a lifetime.