31Jul2025

Making a Difference ●Building Dreams ● Creating Impact ● Saving Lives

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HEAD OFFICE:                          548 Market Street,
San Francisco, CA 94104         USA

PROJECT OFFICE:                  Pearl Condo, Bldg A, 15 Fl., Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd.,      Yangon, Myanmar

hello@marykyapfoundation.org

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MTM sister
TESTIMONIES
September 24, 2023

Reflections of Sister Rose Mary

My name is Sister Rose Mary. I am now assigned to the St. Francis Xavier Convent in Myitkyina, Kachin, in northern Myanmar.

#I have been serving the ministry little over 40 years.  I was previously assigned to the Myittamone Orphanage in Hwabi in 2015 when I received Mr. Peter K. Yap and his family at our orphanage home.  I’ve known the Mary K. Yap Foundation for seven years now. They are like a family to us. The organization continuously visits and checks on us, especially our children.

As an orphanage organization under the Roman Catholic Church of the Myanmar Diocese, our vision is to bring out the best in our children so they can grow under God’s care and have the necessary skill sets to take on future responsibilities to become reliable adults. We see these orphans as someone who can turn their futures better. We believe that their past shouldn’t be something that can affect their future. They are just like other children who need someone to depend on and someone who believes in them. 

We have been in contact with Mary K. Yap Foundation since 2015. We have done several impactful programs together. We are excited to see and develop joint programs with them whenever they visit our orphanage. We have also participated in the foundation’s “One Stuff Animal Project.” It is a yearly program that focuses on the social connection and development of the children.  

The tender love and Care project and their annual foundation Christmas celebration are held yearly. Together with the volunteers, the program aims to allow some time for the orphans to enjoy and celebrate the Christmas season. The foundation organizes and prepares some entertainment, games, and food to share with. I love how happy the orphans were. The smiles on their faces are worth every moment. I know they feel loved and content in these times. 

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As a lead sister of the orphanage, these orphans are very close to my heart. I feel them every time. I also believe in them. I know they are worth more than their sad history. I know they can be successful one day because, just like the others, they are smart kids that’s why I am one of those people who believe in and support them all the way. I think these children should feel the love and care of someone who truly appreciates them. They are our future; they are worth more. 

Mary K. Yap Foundation is truly a blessing for every orphan. I want supporters and donors to know how much the organization appreciates the orphan community. They have a huge heart for these children. The company cares for the orphans like a family. I am one of the biggest foundation’s supporters. I am looking forward to every opportunity for their projects. I hope they can organize more events that the orphans will truly enjoy.

With God’s Love

Sister Rosemary”

Direct Translation by MF Staff, Shelly

By admin
6. Juan Karlos Labajo 4
INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHT
April 21, 2023

Juan Karlos Labajo: Orphan’s Inspiration

Juan Karlos Labajo, also known as “JK,” is a Filipino-German singer born on February 5, 2001, and raised in Consolacion, Cebu, the Philippines, by his mother, Malinda Labajo.

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His German father, Oliver Stolz, left the family after his birth. His mother married a second time, and he has two younger half-brothers from her second marriage. On November 17, 2013, he became an orphan after he lost his mother at the age of twelve, following which he was adopted by his uncle, Jovanni, and Grandmother, Linda, in Metro Manila. His family struggled financially for a long time, and he even had to scavenge junk for a living.

Juan Karlos Labajo, having a talent for singing, decided to join the season 1 blind audition for ABS-CBN’s ‘The Voice Kids.’ He charmed the coaches with his rendition of the Adam Sandler song, ‘Grow Old With You.’ Coaches Sarah Geronimo and Bamboo Mañalac wanted him on their teams, which allowed him to choose one, following which he picked Mañalac. 

His performance of ‘Sway’ during the live semi-finals at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Resorts World Manila placed him third after public voting, which advanced him to the four-person finals. In the finals, the coaches praised his performance of ‘Yesterday’ by The Beatles, ‘Runaway Baby’ by Bruno Mars, and the duet ‘Eto Na Naman’ with Gary Valenciano. Still, he again finished third in the voting.

After the competition, JK was managed by Star Magic, ABS-CBN’s training and management center. From there started his career, and he was cast in different T.V. programs. He also appeared in the lead role in the Philippine drama anthology series ‘Maalaala Mo Kaya.’ His successful career continued as he was involved in different parts – supporting and leading the cast. 

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In August 2015, JK released his debut album JK, featuring eight tracks, including “Di Ka Man Lang Nagpaalam,” a heartfelt tribute to his late mother. He also became a host on the music program MYX and later followed up with his second album JKL, which also featured eight tracks, three of which were his own compositions. Although his mother never had the chance to witness his rise after years of hardship, JK remained proud of his success and honored her memory through his music. Growing up as an orphan without the support of his biological parents, he never gave up—instead, he persevered, believing in himself even when no one else did. With minimal help from his uncle and grandmother, he worked tirelessly to follow and achieve his dreams.

The inspiring journey of Juan Karlos Labajo resonates deeply with the mission of the Mary K. Yap Foundation—to uplift and empower orphaned and disadvantaged youth to pursue their dreams despite adversity. His story is a powerful reminder that talent, resilience, and determination can thrive even in the absence of traditional support systems. In recognition of his courage and achievements, the Mary K. Yap Foundation is proud to feature Juan Karlos Labajo in our Individual Spotlight Edition, celebrating individuals whose lives and work embody hope, perseverance, and the spirit of transformation we aim to nurture in every child we serve.

By admin
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COMMENTARIES
November 14, 2022

Recognizing Strength on Int’l Orphan Day

Orphans are children who depend on their strength and ability to learn and succeed without the support of their mothers and fathers. They are the ones who have lost one or both parents to age, sickness, or violence—or simply by being abandoned.”

Dr. John Palmer
 Chairman, Mary K. Yap Foundation

On International Orphan Day, we pause to honor the lives of millions of children worldwide who face the world without the support of their parents. These children, often left behind through illness, conflict, abandonment, or poverty, are some of the most vulnerable members of society—but also some of the most resilient.

The Harsh Reality They Endure

Every year, the number of orphans around the world continues to rise—due to war, disease, disasters, and extreme poverty. Without adequate care, protection, and guidance, these children face unimaginable risks. Many are left to navigate life on their own, often preyed upon by those seeking to exploit their vulnerability. The dangers are alarming. Orphaned children are often forced into:

        • Child labor by unethical employers
        • Militant groups or rebel armies as child soldiers
        • Human trafficking networks
        • Violent criminal activity simply to survive
        • Or abuse under the care of those with bad intentions

Those who survive these circumstances may still face a bleak future—malnutrition, untreated diseases, homelessness, or incarceration. Some lose their lives to conditions that could have easily been prevented with basic care. Others, burdened by trauma and isolation, may grow up without the tools to trust or thrive.

The Strength They Carry Within

#And yet, amid this tragedy, we witness something powerful: hope. Orphaned children are not defined by their loss, but by their resilience. They are survivors—young souls who fight each day to rise above abandonment and shape their own future. Their strength is quiet, but it is unshakable. Their courage is often unseen, but it is real. At the Mary K. Yap Foundation, we believe that every orphan deserves not only survival, but the opportunity to flourish. These children are not a burden to the world—they are its potential. With the right care, love, and guidance, they can become tomorrow’s leaders, thinkers, and changemakers.

As we commemorate International Orphan Day, we must move beyond sympathy and into action. These children do not deserve to live in neglect, especially when they have so much to offer the world. It is our collective duty—governments, communities, and individuals—to ensure that no orphan grows up unseen, unloved, or unprotected. We call on everyone to be a voice, a hand, a heart—to support organizations that care for orphaned children, advocate for their rights, and create safe, nurturing spaces for them to heal and grow.

Let us remember that orphaned children are not simply survivors of tragedy—they are symbols of human resilience. With our help, they can still build lives of purpose, dignity, and hope.

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By admin
Brighter Future Banner
COMMENTARIES
August 7, 2022

Commitment Amid Myanmar’s Challenges

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Despite the ongoing uncertainty in Myanmar, the Mary K. Yap Foundation remains committed in our mission to uplift and care for the orphaned children we have served for over two decades. These children, who face some of life’s most difficult circumstances, continue to be at the heart of everything we do. We believe that every child deserves hope, stability, and a future filled with opportunity.

        As Dr. John Palmer, Board Chair of the Foundation, shared in a recent Zoom interview:

“They (the children) should not fear what will happen in the future, instead, we must take each day and pay attention to areas where they can develop new talents and skills to support their future.”

– Dr John Palmer

Board Chair of the Mary K. Yap Foundation
Daily Learning and Emotional Growth

In line with this vision, our Foundation encourages all children in our care to continue their journey of daily self-learning. Developing habits such as reading, writing, and critical thinking helps build a foundation of confidence and independence. Our local orphanage teams work diligently to provide educational materials, including books, journals, and storytelling sessions, to support each child’s development. Daw Meme Lwin, one of our dedicated Orphanage Ambassadors, has played a key role in nurturing this spirit of growth. Through her regular reading sessions and motivational talks, she helps children understand that even the smallest effort can pave the way for a “Better Tomorrow.” These acts of engagement do more than educate—they inspire hope.

Building Resilience Through Reading and Connection

Through partnerships with domestic and international donors, we have launched a coordinated effort to distribute books and educational materials to every orphanage center under our care. These resources are not just for learning—they are tools for healing. They allow children to explore stories of strength, imagination, and survival, and to find pieces of themselves in each tale.

Children who grow up in traumatic or unstable environments often struggle with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and emotional withdrawal. These issues cannot be ignored—and we are committed to addressing them head-on.

Empowering Mental and Emotional Well-being

At the Mary K. Yap Foundation, we know that education alone is not enough. That’s why we place a strong emphasis on emotional well-being and mental support. Our teams maintain regular communication between children, ambassadors, and caregivers to create a circle of support and listening.

Through shared stories, meaningful dialogue, and personalized care, we work to remind each child that they are not alone. That their voices matter. And that despite the uncertainty outside, within our care, they are safe, valued, and seen.

As we continue to navigate the challenges facing Myanmar, our Foundation remains devoted to protecting the light within every orphaned child—and to ensuring that their future is one of resilience, growth, and hope.

By admin
Eleanor 1
INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHT
October 20, 2021

From an Orphan to First Lady

Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.”

Eleanor Roosevelt (The First Lady and an orphan)

 

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The longest serving First Lady in US history, Anna Eleanor Roosevelt, was born on October 11, 1884. At the early age of 8, Eleanor Roosevelt lost her mother, Anna Hall Roosevelt, due to diphtheria in 1892, while her father, Elliott Roosevelt, died of alcoholism.

Eleanor lived with her maternal grandmother, Mary Hall, who sent Eleanor to Allenwood School, a progressive girls’ boarding school in London, England, in 1899.  Ms. Marie Souvestre, Allenswood ‘s Director, recognized Eleanor’s keen intellect, improving her self-confidence. As a result, she became a well-liked leader at a young age among her classmates.

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Eleanor lived in the life of politics as her uncle, Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt, the brother of her father, who assumed the 26th presidency (1901-1909) right after President McKinley was assassinated. She was then involved in different charity programs and contributed to volunteer settlement houses and social work, activities that reflected the service’s philosophy of the time spent at the Allenswood ‘Girl’s Boarding School, which molded Eleanor to appreciate and develop deeper insights into politics.  During this time, she fell in love with her fifth cousin, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who later became the 32nd President for four terms from 1933 and 1945.

Eleanor Roosevelt is commonly appraised as one of the influential American women of the 20th century.  In addition to serving as the First Lady of the United States for 12 years, she was a newspaper columnist, author, diplomat, and a great contributor to the League of Women Voters.   President Truman appointed her as the delegate of the United Nations General Assembly. In 1946, she joined as a member of the Human Rights Division, further cementing her position as one of the inspirational voices in the modern world.

 

Our Foundation is pleased to recognize the incredible ‘life celebrations of Eleanor Roosevelt.  Although she became an orphan young, she championed noble causes that embodied gender equality movements to be accepted worldwide.  In acknowledgment of her invaluable workaround ‘for women’s and human rights, she was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by President Kennedy, among others.

By admin
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CORPORATE NEWS
September 5, 2021

A Warm Tribute to Mr. Edward Thaung

The Board of Directors of the Mary K Yap Foundation would like to extend our tribute to our beloved Board member, Edward Thaung, who passed away at the age of 73 on August 7, 2021, in Yangon, Myanmar.

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Edward Thaung was a devoted Roman Catholic who stood by his religious convictions in supporting those in need.  He was always available to lend his ears and share his valuable insights and experience with anyone who asked for help.   As a faithful husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and mentor to many start-up companies, Edward Thaung touched many people with his candid personality, storytelling talents, and five decades of knowledge of the country’s regulatory and commerical affairs.

During his professional career, Edward Thaung counseled and advised many local and foreign companies on such diverse matters as company formation, taxation, investment proposals, criminal law, family law, international contracts, and dispute resolutions.   His early years of legal work included serving as a Town Law Officer, Grade (4) Public prosecutor, and Pre-trial Legal Advisor to the police department, revenue, customs department, immigration, and other government departments.  Among his notable contributions was his time as Senior Law Officer at the Attorney General’s Office (1989-1993) in coordination with other government bodies to successfully host the Rights of the Child Seminar in cooperation with UNICEF in Yangon.   He redrafted new laws in coordination with the relevant Government departmental personnel and translated Myanmar legal statutes into English.   

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From 1993 to 1995, he was the Assistant Director for Environmental Affairs ‘Office’ and attended the United Nations Environmental Program UNEP Seminar as National Ozone Officer for Myanmar.   For ten years, he held the Secretary to the Board of Directors position at Air Mandalay Limited from 1996 to 2006.  He was responsible for company compliance with the relevant laws of Myanmar as the chief legal consultant to Petronas, World Trade Center Yangon, Awba Group, and Mandalay Productions, to name a few. In addition, he was appointed as visiting university law lecturer in 1996 to teach commercial law subjects in Master of Business Administration (MBA) classes in Yangon sponsored by the Institute of Economics, Yangon.  For the past three years before his death, he served as the Chief Regulatory Officer for the KMA Group of Companies.  

The work contributed by Edward Thaung was done with the utmost integrity and professionalism on behalf of the public and private organizations he served.    Despite his busy schedule, he always found the time to give a hand to worthy organizations and individuals.   Over the three years that Edward Thaung represented our Foundation board, we benefited from his legal advice and developed our sponsored programs in Myanmar in full legal compliance.  

Our goal has always been to become a trusted partner to our donor community so that charitable funds make it to the orphanages that need the most help.   With the help of Edward Thaung, we have become a trusted partner with local communities, positioning our organization to serve all orphanages in the country. So much of the success of our empowerment programs working with Myanmar orphans would not have been possible without the dedicated and faithful help of Edward Thaung.  His passing represents a great loss to our organization and Myanmar.

By admin
1. An Orphan Thoughts on Mother Day
COMMENTARIES
May 9, 2021

Orphan Children on Mother’s Day

A mother is she who can take the place of all others but whose place no one else can take.”

– Cardinal Gaspard Mermillod (1824-1892)

 

OEvery May, America celebrates and honors mothers on this special day by thanking them for all the love and sacrifices they’ve made. But sadly, this is not the case for children in every town and country in the world who have lost, been taken from, abandoned by, or sent away from their mothers.

An orphan may suffer long-term emotional problems due to their failure to resolve their sense of loss for their mother. The effects of trauma can include symptoms of depression, being more anxious and withdrawn, having more problems in school, and diminished academic performance than non-bereaved children. Some also have difficulty building relationships and have trust issues as they lack maternal support while beginning their life journey. Abandoned orphans will always be left with the question of if their mothers truly loved them.  These orphans feel incomplete without their mothers.

Celebrating Mother’s Day is not the same for everyone; for some orphans, it will remind them of their feelings when they lost their mother. Mothers generally support us through all our victories and hardships as we build our lives. Therefore, some orphans will feel envious of the children who can spend time with and be cared for by their mothers. Living and growing up without a mother to lean on, especially on the most challenging days, is not easy.

Many orphans also live in poverty and cope with mental and emotional problems at an early age, in addition to the burden of losing their mother. Even though some still have their fathers and are considered “single orphans, ” the loss of the love and care that mothers bring is irreplaceable.

These orphans are vulnerable but hopefully will remain strong and determined to continue living and pursuing their dreams. Although these unprivileged children have no mother to celebrate Mother’s Day, they should still be surrounded by unconditional love from those who appreciate and care for them. Let this be an encouragement for us to be there for the underprivileged ones, the orphans, as we celebrate this Mother’s Day.

By admin
teophine (1)
TESTIMONIES
March 21, 2021

I am an Orphan, but I am Not Alone

My name is Teophine. I am an orphan at the Myittamone Orphanage for eleven years.  I am now 16 years old.

I have known about the Mary K. Yap Foundation for seven years now. They always visit us not only during the Christmas season but also throughout the years. I feel happy and excited when I know they will call us because there will always be games and activities when they come to our orphanage. Over the years, the foundation provided us with much food and nourishment. They offered rice bags, food plates, energy snacks, and drinking water. I especially enjoy the chicken rice plates and sweet iced dessert. They also provided us with needed things for academics, like stationery, pens, pencils, books, and computer equipment.

We enjoyed different activities to improve our learning experience. The foundation team prepared fun networking games, and magic shows on one of their earlier visits. They taught us the English language that we could use during our daily conversations. As an orphan, I sometimes feel sad and alone, but whenever Mary K. Yap Foundation visits us, my sadness is gone because their team of volunteers always fills our hearts with joy and love. We do not feel alone whenever their people visit us because they are like a family. We feel warm and motivated, especially when they give us inspiration that we can use for self-motivation. 

Every Christmas season, they have an event called “One Stuff Animal Project.” This program was created several years ago and is held every year combined with the foundation’s Christmas celebration. They prepared the event in detail to be with us. They always have something new to share, like new activities, stories, and card games. It is truly fun and exciting to be with them. 

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What I like the most about their visits is that they engaged with the children in every game so that we would not be shy. We felt like we always had someone to depend on when they were at the orphanage.  We felt like they loved us and cared for us! I could not thank them enough for their time and generosity. They also give us one stuffed toy animal to hug and play with daily. The toy animal gift was a souvenir that I will always treasure, especially during my sleeping hours. It is so cuddly! This is really a wonderful experience for us, and I hope they can organize more fun events. I am looking forward to those lifetime moments to cherish!

By Teophine”

Direct Translation provided by MF Staff, Shelly

By admin
chairman John
CORPORATE NEWS
January 8, 2021

HNY Greetings from Chairman Dr. Palmer

Happy New Year from the Mary K. Yap Foundation

January 10, 2021

Dear Friends, 

Happy New Year to all our friends and supporters,

As we step into 2021 with renewed hope, the Mary K. Yap Foundation is proud to continue our heartfelt collaboration with Mandalay Productions on the post-production of our upcoming charity film, Myittar. Though the final audio mixing in Thailand, originally scheduled for February 2020, was delayed due to the pandemic, our shared commitment to the project has only grown stronger.

In early March, our teams began scouting for a location to shoot a new music video that beautifully complements the film—centered around the life of an orphan and the enduring power of compassion and resilience. We are hopeful that this creative piece will further amplify Myittar‘s mission to bring visibility to children who are often forgotten.

While travel and in-person gatherings were limited throughout 2020, these challenges gave us the chance to reimagine our outreach and marketing strategies in anticipation of Myittar’s release. By August, we were pleased to complete editing adjustments and submit the film to the Censorship Board in Myanmar—a major step forward despite the year’s uncertainties.

Though we were unable to celebrate Christmas in person with the children at our partnered orphanages, our hearts were certainly with them. We continue to lift them in our thoughts and prayers, and our Rice Donation Program remains ongoing in areas we can safely reach through domestic routes. Every small gesture makes a lasting difference—and we are as committed as ever to showing these children that they are not alone.

On behalf of our Board of Directors and our Yangon team, thank you for believing in our mission. Your support inspires everything we do. Should you need assistance or wish to get involved, our Yangon office remains open and ready to serve. Let’s move forward in 2021 with renewed compassion, purpose, and unity.

Yours truly,

Dr. John Palmer

Chairman of the Board

Mary K. Yap Foundation Board of Directors”

By admin
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INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHT
March 12, 2020

Bridgit Claire: A Heart for a Change

Bridgit Mendler: A Heart for Change

#Born on December 18, 1992, in Washington, D.C., Bridgit Claire Mendler is the daughter of Sandra Ford-Mendler and Charles Mendler. She rose to fame as an American actress, singer, and songwriter—gaining popularity through her roles in Disney Channel productions and her distinctive voice in pop music. But beyond her talent in the entertainment industry, Bridgit has proven herself as a compassionate and committed advocate for social causes, particularly those involving children and youth.

Promoting Education, Literacy, and Environmental Awareness

In 2010, Mendler became an ambassador for First Book, an initiative focused on promoting literacy by providing books to children in need. Her involvement was part of Disney’s Friends for Change, a pro-social campaign encouraging environmental responsibility and charitable action among youth.

As part of this movement, Mendler released a promotional single titled “We Can Change the World” on June 11, 2011. The uplifting anthem became the campaign’s theme song and helped raise $250,000 for the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund—supporting environmental protection efforts around the globe. Her contribution not only inspired fans to take action but also reflected her deep commitment to making a positive difference.

Mendler said, “It’s an easy way for kids to help little ones everywhere get a healthy start and an opportunity to learn just by doing something they do most weekends anyway.”

In 2012, Mendler was honored with the Role Model of the Year Award by Common Sense Media for her active stance against bullying. As the third young artist to ever receive the award—typically given to environmentalists and scholars—her recognition highlighted her influence as a youth leader promoting kindness, respect, and inclusion.

Her advocacy didn’t stop there. In January 2013, she participated in the UNICEF acoustic charity concert held in New York, using her platform to raise funds and awareness for vulnerable children around the world. Her work continued through various public engagements focused on children’s health, online safety, and mental well-being.

A Voice for the Voiceless

Throughout her career, Mendler has remained engaged in initiatives that go beyond the spotlight. She took part in campaigns to end cyberbullying, joined a charity race supporting children’s medical needs in under-resourced countries, and contributed to the Bay Sit-In project—an initiative encouraging teens to give parents a break while promoting early childhood care. She also represented Save the Children during its Annual Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C., where she spoke on behalf of underserved communities and advocated for global child welfare policies.

Bridgit Claire Mendler continues to exemplify what it means to use fame and influence for good. Her artistic journey may have earned her acclaim, but it’s her commitment to meaningful causes that truly sets her apart. In both her advocacy and actions, Mendler reflects the very heart of the Mary K. Yap Foundation’s mission—to serve and uplift the lives of orphaned and vulnerable children with compassion, dignity, and hope. By standing up for the voiceless and supporting global initiatives that prioritize child welfare, she embodies the spirit of service that our foundation holds dear. We recognize Bridgit not only as an accomplished artist but as a true ally in advancing the well-being and future of children who need it most.

By admin