Young trader spreads Christmas cheer with free meals for homeless in Pasay

A young businessman in a vehicle bedecked with decorations spread cheer among the poor in Pasay City on Christmas Day.

According to Jun Veneracion's report on "24 Oras," declined an on-cam interview and asked that his face not be shown while he distributed food among the homeless.

He said the thanks and the smiles he received were quite gratifying.

Rachel, one of the recipients of the gifts, was anxious about her family's next meal when the 22-year-old giver stopped at the Pasay Rotonda area to give free meals.

“Na-touch po ako kasi sobrang bait po eh. Kahit sa konting pagkain at least nakapagbigay po sya," Rachel said. 

(I was touched because he was incredibly kind. Even with just a little food, he was able to make a difference.)

Meanwhile, at least 100 families in Upper Lugsad, Camarines Sur, and Upper Panicuason in Naga City also received kindness from strangers after a group called "Santa Hikers" broughts toys, clothes, and food.

Kapag nagha-hike kami tuwing December, nakikita namin na tila walang… hindi nararamdaman sa itaas ang essence ng Christmas,” said Joel Villareal, one of the organizers of Santa Hike.

(When we hike every December, we observe that there seems to be a lack of… the essence of Christmas is not felt up there,” said Joel Villareal, one of the organizers of Santa Hike.)

“Habang grabe ang pagiging abala dito, mga party-party, yung mga bata doon, yung mga pamilya doon, busy sila sa araw-araw na buhay,” he said. 

(While the celebrations here are intense, with parties and all, those children there, those families there, they are busy with their daily lives.)