The Insular Foundation, the dedicated corporate social responsibility arm of Insular Life (InLife), reached a remarkable milestone as it commemorated its 54th anniversary with a vibrant celebration of Philippine art and history at the Ayala Museum. The event, which aimed to foster an appreciation for the nation’s rich cultural heritage, included various activities for scholars, students, and the general public.
In collaboration with the Ayala Foundation, the Insular Foundation organized an immersive experience for its scholars, featuring an art workshop and a history lecture. One hundred beneficiaries of the Adopt-A-Scholar program from Alabang Elementary School and Bayanan Elementary School participated in the engaging art workshop.
“On Insular Foundation’s 54th anniversary, we want to bring our beneficiaries, partners, and the general public back to our Filipino heritage through arts and history appreciation, particularly of the Ilustrados or the intellectual elite of the 19th century. We hope to inspire them through our heroes’ life story, first as human beings, then as artists, so they may apply their examples in this 21st century times,” according to Ana Maria R. Soriano, Insular Foundation’s Executive Director.
Distinguished historian Dr. Ambeth Ocampo led a captivating lecture for the Gold Eagle College scholars from the University of the Philippines Diliman. The lecture delved into inspiring the youth by drawing parallels between their lives and the remarkable contributions of national heroes who, at a young age, left an indelible mark on the country.
As part of its celebration, the Insular Foundation generously opened the doors of Ayala Museum’s Splendor exhibit to the public. The exhibit, co-presented by InLife, showcases the rediscovered painting of Juan Luna titled “Hymen, oh Hyménée!” or “Roman Wedding.” The unveiling of this masterpiece coincided with the 125th anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood in June. The exhibit welcomed museum-goers, art enthusiasts, and students, providing them with free access to explore the artistic brilliance of the renowned Filipino painter.
“The tour in Ayala Museum was very enriching. It made me realize how richly talented Filipinos are when it comes to art and how dedicated they could be in expressing themselves or an event in history using the form. During Dr. Ambeth Ocampo’s talk, he was able to make us realize that even our bayani are humans like us. Nevertheless, they still contributed to the Filipino cause and continue to inspire us to do the same no matter how irrelevant we think we are as individuals,” said Yannis Fernandez, UP Diliman Gold Eagle Scholar.
For over 50 years, the Insular Foundation has been at the forefront of implementing programs that advocate for social and economic mobility, sustainable environmental practices, and employee volunteerism. Its flagship education program, the Gold Eagle College Scholarship Grant, continues to support intelligent and deserving students in need of financial assistance, empowering them to access quality education and contribute meaningfully to society.
The Adopt-A-Scholar Program, another key initiative, allows InLife employees to actively contribute to the education of elementary students from the Foundation’s partner public schools in Muntinlupa and Benguet. Through yearly employee donations, the Foundation provides essential school items such as uniforms, shoes, bags, and school supplies to the adopted students until they complete their elementary education.
Learn more about the various programs and initiatives of the Insular Foundation via www.insularfoundation.com.ph. The Foundation continues to uphold its commitment to making a positive impact on communities and promoting a deeper understanding of Philippine culture and history.