Last year, interactive kids’ city KidZania Manila launched the KidZania para sa Bantay Bata initiative with the aim of raising enough money to send kids from ABS-CBN Bantay Bata Foundation. Through selling Paskong Kai Saya ornaments (star-shaped capiz ornaments) at the main square, they were able to raise P174,000 that gave 160 underprivileged children the gift of Kidzania.
The kids enjoyed exploring KidZania Manila and its various role-playing activities. With this unforgettable experience, they were able to discover their dream careers at the mini metropolis. “They were amazed by all the different features of the play city— the bank, newspaper office, and fastfood outlets that were so true-tAo-life, except that they are kid-sized,” says social worker Evan Lyndon. “It was an inspiring experience, as the kids gained a deeper understanding and appreciation of what adults do and how society functions,” she adds.
The kids enjoyed working as newspaper correspondents, TV crew, chefs, doctors, and firefighters, among many Kidzania occupations. The best part of the experience is learning the value of each job, which can potentially affect what these kids want to pursue when they get older.
“One of the most important values we always aim to teach kids is to care and share whatever blessings they have with others,” says Maricel Pangilinan-Arenas, State Governor of KidZania Manila. “It just goes to show that each of us can do something—no effort is too big or too small — to make the holidays bright for others, especially kids who are in need.”
Kidzania Manila is one of the world’s most inventive, most awarded and fastest-growing kids' educational entertainment concepts. It has 21 locations in 18 countries, including the Philippines. For more information, visit manila.kidzania.com.