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Celebrities Giving Back: The Kris Aquino most of us don’t know

Kris Aquino (File photo, NPPA Images)
Kris Aquino (File photo, NPPA Images)

By Gerry Plaza

Many things have been said about Kris Aquino—some nasty, some sweet, some strange, some true. And, as her reputation precedes her, rarely do we get the big picture about Kris, with cruel posts on social media further clouding our judgment of her.

All these fuel the dichotomy of our perception: is Kris really the clueless, arrogant, overbearing character people love to hate? Or is she just speaking her mind, and keeping us and her willing bashers entertained?

We also know about Kris’s generosity even if her charity is greeted with raised eyebrows or even laughter.

Spreading her wealth

Certainly, if she can give a Hummer to a dear friend or Rolexes to co-stars, can you imagine what she donates to causes and charities?

Far more than any other showbiz personality, Kris consistently spreads her largesse.

She makes regular substantial donations to such institutions as Gawad Kalinga, World Vision and the Philippine National Red Cross.

Her charities

For Gawad Kalinga, Kris bankrolled the construction of houses for destitute families, including a row of 10 houses in Ajuy, Iloilo a few years back.

She also sponsors hundreds of kids for World Vision to ensure their access to education and health facilities.

And for the Red Cross, she actively participates in relief efforts during disasters, such as Supertyphoon Yolanda and the earthquakes in Cebu and Bohol, and donates substantial amounts to fund the organization’s programs.

A link to Tita Cory

She also worked with a leading jeweler to produce a 20-piece collection, the proceeds of which went to the Red Cross, aside from the sizable contribution she made arising from her endorsement of Phillip Stein watches.

That’s not to mention the bazaars where she donates her luxury items to fund her charities.

And the list goes on.

While Kris has always been a polarizing personality and we may never get within spitting distance of the Hummer and Rolexes she doles out, we are at least certain of her resolve to act as needed and live the line her mother, the late beloved Tita Cory, once quoted from the Bible: “To whom much is given, much is expected.”

Read more blog posts from Gerry Plaza