Makati, Philippines – In today’s fast-paced world where meaningful change often seems elusive, youth-led organizations across the Philippines are stepping up to make a difference. Among these changemakers stands Captain Edo B. Lobenia, a Master in Development Management (MDM) alumnus of the Asian Institute of Management (AIM), whose initiative, Second Chance Philippines, is redefining what building an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient society means.
Captain Lobenia’s journey from the AIM case rooms to community impact exemplifies the power of education and compassionate, innovative leadership in driving social change.
Second Chance Philippines is a nonprofit organization that empowers former inmates, or persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), post-release. Expounding on his organization’s approach, Captain Lobenia shared how his education contributed to the realization of his passion project, “Second Chance Philippines operates through two business models: community partnerships and social enterprises. Leveraging impact investment strategies I studied during my MDM at AIM, we have established various businesses including a laundry shop, coffee shop, car wash, and agriculture farm. These enterprises are entirely managed by former PDLs, offering them a genuine second chance at life.”
He added, “My learning experience was greatly enriched by the Future Bridging Leaders Program (FBLP) at AIM as well. The bridging framework of ownership, co-ownership, and co-creation has been instrumental in our approach. I gained skills in mobilizing resources, conducting stakeholder engagement, and facilitating dialogue. It taught me to apply systems thinking, seeing the bigger picture while also stepping back to reflect on our progress.”
Captain Lobenia and his organization’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. At the 21st Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) Awards, Second Chance Philippines secured a spot among the top 10 awardees. The TAYO Awards is the Philippines’ foremost award-giving body dedicated to recognizing and supporting youth organizations that are making significant contributions towards nation-building. The 21st search with the theme: “Makabayani,” encapsulates the twin ideals of “makabayan” (love of country) and “bayani” (hero). The awardees were recognized for developing innovative solutions to pressing challenges.
This accolade, along with the Bida Kabataan Special Award, shines a spotlight on the impact of Captain Lobenia’s transformative leadership and his organization’s commitment to empowering former PDLs and building a more inclusive society.
Join the ranks of the Asian Institute of Management Master in Development Management graduates. Develop the skills to co-create scalable solutions for a sustainable and equitable future through participant-centered learning and highly experienced faculty. Secure your spot at the January 2025 intake today: https://devatwork.aim.edu/master-in-development-management/
