For nearly two decades, a group has worked to bring about positive changes in the country through its social development arm, offering programs in agriculture, disaster response, and education. Established by Jollibee Group Founders, Dr. Tony and Grace Tan Caktiong, the Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF) has helped empower thousands of Filipinos and received numerous awards and recognition for its impactful work.

JGF's wide reach reflects the heart and passion of its team members. As Jollibee Group celebrates its 45th anniversary this year, the Foundation shines a spotlight on some of the staff who have contributed to the success of JGF programs: Arianne Aldeza, Fleurdelis "Didith" Rosales, and Jenice "Jen" Estrada.

A career that cares

While they have been instrumental in running JGF's programs, they have had to adjust and learn new ways of working as they joined the organization many years back.

Aldeza, an Agricultural Engineering graduate coming from a government post, initially struggled with the organization's dynamic nature when she joined in 2013. "I was not used to seeing plans change, especially in the middle of the year," she said. "I soon learned that sometimes plans need to change to improve our approach and adapt to changing contexts so that our programs can be more relevant to the partners and communities."

As she was further immersed in the Foundation's work, she learned to embrace adaptability and thrive amidst rapid changes.

After leading the implementation of JGF's flagship program, the Farmer Entrepreneurship Program, in the past few years, Aldeza now oversees JGF programs in Central Luzon as Program Manager for Partnerships and Operations.

For Rosales, one of the factors that drew her in was the involvement of Jollibee Group founders Dr. Tony and Grace Tan Caktiong in the Foundation. "I was informed the principals were very hands-on and had a mission for the community. These prompted me to pursue my application," she said.

Rosales, a social worker by profession, had to assimilate to how JGF operated when she joined in 2016. "JGF has a different culture, with a strong drive for excellence. We do not just do the programs; we have to do it well. When mistakes happen, we do not see them as failures. Instead, we look at how we can use it to improve," she said.

At the height of the pandemic, she worked with the JGF team and partners to establish a delivery system for Jollibee Group FoodAID and develop agro-entrepreneurship courses for agricultural workers and the youth. Now, Rosales is a Program Manager for Partnerships and Operations, spearheading program implementation in the National Capital Region and South Luzon.

One of the Foundation's most tenured employees is Estrada who joined as a Program Coordinator in 2011. Also, a social worker by profession, she started out with a simple but critical task—releasing check vouchers for the Busog, Lusog, Talino, (BLT) School Feeding Program. "If I was not able to release those checks, the pupils under the BLT program would not be able to eat," she recalled.

She eventually took on more responsibilities, such as managing the ACE Scholarship Program, fundraising, and employee engagement—rising through the ranks along the way. Currently, Estrada is part of the leadership team as Program Manager for Governance and Finance.

Growing friendship

As their friendship and careers grew, so did the Foundation. With their experience and ability, they have shaped how the programs will benefit farmers, youth, and vulnerable families.

At work, Aldeza's happiest days are when farmers deliver a huge volume of vegetables to Jollibee Group, as this assures them of high income. For Rosales, even small wins such as completing an activity are worth celebrating. "It means our efforts have been valuable. The success of one team is also the success of the whole Foundation," she added.

Meanwhile, Estrada is happiest when the Foundation's finances are balanced, a major job she has undertaken for years. "It's when everything is accounted for and the financial statement is approved," she said.

Some days may be challenging but these ladies always find happiness in going to work and celebrating milestones together.

Shared purpose and gratitude

What binds these ladies and JGF together is a shared purpose. "Our personal passion and the organization's values should be aligned," Aldeza said. "We will face many challenges but as long as we are working towards a common goal, we will not leave the organization."

JGF also continues to build strong collaborations with different business units who play key roles in the programs, accentuating the company's commitment to nation-building.

"It is a rare opportunity to have a job to help the community," Rosales said. It is a huge task, which is why she is also grateful for the mentorship and chance to develop their leadership and professional skills, allowing them to broaden and deepen their work.

Estrada affirmed this, saying the Foundation has become more focused on its staff, supporting them to achieve their goals. "We have targets for our employees, not just for the program or partners," she said.

These ladies are thankful to Jollibee Group not just for their employment, but for the platform it offers to fulfill their aspirations of doing good. Their gratitude extends to Jollibee Group employees whose hard work allows the company to donate a portion of its profits to fund the programs of the Foundation.

They take pride in being with JGF and look on to the next years filled with hope for a more joyful tomorrow.

To stay updated on the latest developments, milestones, and stories of positive change, visit the official website and Facebook page of the Jollibee Group Foundation.