History
EDUPHIL was established in 2020 through the collaboration of Dr. Sheilachu P Gomez (Ching), Ms. Erlinda Munsayac (Lynda). and the late Dr. Robert Woodruff (Bob). Ching has been a long-time member of Friends of Los Banos Children that have been sending educational resources to elementary schools in her hometown for over 2 decades.
Lynda has also been involved in supporting educational initiatives to schools in the city where she originally comes from. Bob was a retired and Entomologist and Gemologist from the University of Florida and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Plant Industry (FDACS-DPI). He witnessed the lack of libraries in schools during his visits in the Philippines, and was deeply moved by the situation. As a long-time volunteer at the Alachua Friends of the Library (FOL), he was disheartened to see many valuable books discarded after each book sale. He proposed extending the book donation program to Philippines schools in different provinces, using FOL as the primary source.
To facilitate this effort, Bob, Ching and Lynda founded EDUPHIL as a non-profit corporation. Their initial efforts were modest, sending 15 boxes of books to four provinces in 2020-2021. With growing support from the local Filipino community, businesses, and private donors, and the approval of their tax-exempt status in 2023, EDUPHIL rapidly expanded its outreach. In 2023, the organization successfully sent 45 boxes of books to 8 provinces and 13 schools, marking a significant milestone in their mission to enhance education in the Philippines.
Since its establishment, EDUPHIL has been led by a series of dedicated presidents who have each contributed to its growth and success. The founding president, Dr. Robert Woodruff, served in 2021, bringing his passion for education and extensive volunteer experience to the role. He was succeeded by Dr. Edgardo Apolinar in 2022, who continued to expand the organization’s reach and impact. In 2023, Dr. Manny Palada took the helm, furthering the mission with new initiatives and partnerships. Currently, Mr. Emiliano Pata, Jr. leads EDUPHIL, steering the organization towards an even brighter future with ambitious goals and a commitment to educational excellence
FOUNDERS OF EDUPHIL
DR. ROBERT E. WOODRUFF
ERLINDA MUNSAYAC
DR. SHEILACHU P GOMEZ
EDUPHIL Roles
Meet the People Behind EDUPHIL
President
Emil Pata
Emil Pata leads the organization with strategic vision and operational oversight. Responsibilities include setting goals, coordinating with the board, representing EDUPHIL at public events, and ensuring the implementation of educational initiatives. Emil also oversees fundraising efforts and collaborates with stakeholders to advance EDUPHIL’s mission.
Vice President
Joy Cagmat
Joy supports the President in managing EDUPHIL's activities and operations. This role involves stepping in during the President’s absence, assisting with strategic planning, and overseeing specific projects or departments. Joy works closely with other board members to ensure cohesive and effective organizational performance.
Secretary
Maria Hernandez
Marita maintains comprehensive records of EDUPHIL's activities, including meeting minutes, board decisions, and correspondence. Responsibilities include organizing meetings, managing official documents, and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Marita also assists in coordinating events and communications within the organization
CO FOUNDER & TREASURER
Lynda Munsayac
Lynda is responsible for overseeing the financial health of EDUPHIL. Duties include managing budgets, financial reporting, and ensuring transparent and accurate record-keeping. Lynda collaborates with the board to develop financial strategies, monitors expenditures, and ensures funds are used effectively to support EDUPHIL's mission.
Co-founder & Director of compliance
Ching Gomez
Ching makes sure EDUPHIL is in compliance with all the Local, State, and Federal laws and regulations regarding the operations and functions of non-profit 501(c3) organizations.
internal auditor
Erwin Panganiban
Erwin ensures that EDUPHIL's operations comply with internal policies and external regulations. Responsibilities include conducting audits, reviewing financial statements, and assessing risk management practices. Erwin works to maintain transparency and accountability within the organization.
media director & member of advisory board
Gali Encabo
Gali manages EDUPHIL's public relations and communication strategies. This role involves developing media campaigns, managing social media platforms, and crafting press releases. Gali works to enhance EDUPHIL's visibility, engage the community, and promote the organization’s initiatives and successes.
past president & member of advisory board
Manny Palada
He is committed to developing recipient alliances with schools in the Philippines
past president & member of advisory board
Doc Ed Apolinar
Helped EDUPHIL with the financial foundation to expand distribution of educational materials.
First lady of eduphil
Tet Pata
Tet, The First Lady of EDUPHIL, serves as a key ambassador and advocate for the organization, supporting its mission to enhance educational opportunities in the Philippines. This role involves a blend of public relations, community engagement, and support functions, aimed at raising awareness and fostering partnerships.
Membership chair
Yoly Mama
Yoly oversees the recruitment, retention, and engagement of EDUPHIL's members. Responsibilities include developing membership programs, organizing events and activities for members, and ensuring effective communication and support. Yoly works to build a strong and active member base, fostering a sense of community and involvement within EDUPHIL.
Events
Donna Gilbert
Donna is responsible for overseeing the operations of events. Her duties include planning and coordinating all logistical aspects, managing event timelines, and ensuring that each event runs smoothly and efficiently. She works with vendors, handles on-site event management, and addresses any issues that arise to ensure a successful and seamless experience for all participants.
Events
Marieta Seale
Marieta is responsible for coordinating with various community stakeholders to foster strong relationships and ensure effective collaboration. This role involves engaging with local organizations, businesses, and residents to support community initiatives and projects.
Media
Rica Gagne
Rica oversees EDUPHIL's media strategy, ensuring effective communication and public relations to enhance the organization’s visibility and impact. This role involves developing media campaigns, managing media relations, and working closely with the Media Director.
operations
Rodel Crizaldo
Rodel ensures the efficient and effective management of EDUPHIL's operational activities. This role involves overseeing administrative functions, streamlining processes, and working closely with the board and executive team to support organizational goals.
finance
Ceci Balbuena
Ceci is responsible for overseeing the financial operations of the organization, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and alignment with EDUPHIL's mission and goals.
Our Amazing Volunteers
The Voluntary Board of EDUPHIL is a dedicated group of individuals driven by a profound passion for education and a deep-seated commitment to the development of the Philippines. Comprised of professionals from diverse backgrounds, each board member brings a unique set of skills and perspectives, united by a common goal: to make a meaningful impact on the educational landscape of the nation.
EduPhil believes that education is the cornerstone of societal progress and empowerment. With this conviction, the board members volunteer their time, expertise, and resources to support and enhance educational initiatives across the Philippines. Their efforts are not just about addressing immediate needs but also about laying the foundation for long-term, sustainable growth in the education sector.
Central to their mission is a focus on underprivileged children and the educators who guide them. The Voluntary Board of EDUPHIL is deeply committed to creating opportunities for these children, ensuring they have access to quality education despite their socio-economic challenges. They work tirelessly to provide resources, scholarships, and programs that open doors to learning and personal growth, helping to break the cycle of poverty and build a brighter future.
Equally important is their support for teachers, recognizing them as the backbone of the educational system. EDUPHIL's board members are dedicated to empowering educators through professional development, resources, and advocacy. By helping teachers enhance their skills and capabilities, they aim to improve the overall quality of education, ensuring that every child receives the best possible instruction and mentorship.
The members of the Voluntary Board of EDUPHIL understand that education is a powerful tool for change. They are committed to creating opportunities for Filipino students to achieve their fullest potential, fostering environments where learning can thrive, and advocating for policies that promote educational equity and excellence. Their unwavering dedication is a testament to their belief in the transformative power of education and their love for the Philippines.
By harnessing their collective expertise and passion, the Voluntary Board of EDUPHIL strives to inspire, innovate, and implement solutions that will drive the country’s educational system forward, ensuring that every Filipino child has access to quality education and the chance to build a brighter future.