As the world continues to navigate uncertainty, I am MAD (Making A Difference) Volunteers Inc. is bringing back its signature “hugot” gathering, MAD Talks, to inspire renewed faith, hope, and solidarity among Filipino youth.

In celebration of National Volunteer Month, MAD Talks Puhon: Faith & Hope in Volunteerism will take place on December 6, 2025, at SM Megamall Cinema 3, supported by SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls. Now on its 15th year, I am MAD continues to champion the Filipino spirit of volunteerism, charity, and bayanihan.

The event carries the theme “puhon”—a Visayan expression meaning “in God’s perfect time.”* It reflects the quiet confidence that change unfolds naturally, and that service, grounded in faith and hope, can transform lives in its own time.

The gathering is endorsed by the National Youth Commission and supported by the Mental Health Youth Hub, reinforcing the organization’s mission to guide and empower young volunteers nationwide.

A New Season for Volunteerism
Formerly known as MAD Talks Padayon, the program now embraces a gentler yet deeper identity: Puhon. It invites volunteers to trust their own becoming and welcome the moments that are still taking shape.

“There’s so much happening around us, and many feel the weight of it,” said Maco Ravanzo, co-founder of I am MAD. “But even in uncertain times, we remain committed to doing what we can, right where we are. Every small act builds into real, lasting change. We move forward with one rhythm—faith and hope. Malayo pa, pero malayo na.”

Stories of Faith, Hope, and Transformation
This year’s speakers will share stories rooted in healing, resilience, and grace.

• Ymari Kristia Pascua, NYC mental health coach and I am MAD’s resident speaker
• Volunteer leaders Heini Borromeo, Wino Dela Cruz, and Kaye Maguddayao

Their narratives form a tapestry of purpose and surrender—a reflection of puhon and a reminder that transformation often begins quietly, in unseen moments.

Open to All — and Completely Free
MAD Talks Puhon emphasizes that showing up is the first step toward meaningful change. Trusting one’s timing is not passive waiting but an act of courage—arriving exactly as you are and believing that growth unfolds in God’s perfect time.

Admission is free, and registration is now open at bit.ly/MADTalksPuhon2025.

I am MAD continues its outreach programs focused on values formation, education, and community-building in underserved communities across the Philippines. To volunteer or support, visit fb.com/IamMakingADifference or email iammadph@gmail.com.

𝑊𝑟𝑖𝑡𝑡𝑒𝑛 𝑖𝑛 𝑐𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑎𝑏𝑜𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝐾𝑎𝑦𝑒 𝐶ℎ𝑖𝑎 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑊𝑖𝑛𝑜 𝐷𝑒𝑙𝑎 𝐶𝑟𝑢𝑧. 𝑃𝑟𝑜𝑜𝑓𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑 𝑏𝑦 𝐻𝑎𝑛𝑛𝑎ℎ 𝐶𝑎𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑙𝑙𝑜.