🤝 AIMSI Chairman and CEO Drives Hope with Wheelchair Donation to Marikina PWDs: “There is a Wheel… There is a Way.”
Marikina City, Philippines – March 18, 2025 – In a powerful demonstration of unwavering commitment to community welfare, AIMSI (Asian Institute of Maritime Studies, Inc.) Chairman and CEO, Commodore Oscar T. Garcia, recently spearheaded a significant Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. Under the inspiring mantra, “There is a Wheel… There is a Way,” Commodore Garcia generously donated 15 high-quality wheelchairs to the leading radio network DZRH, specifically earmarked for distribution to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) residing in Marikina City. This heartfelt gesture underscores AIMSI’s core belief in fostering mobility, dignity, and a better quality of life for individuals facing physical challenges.
More Than Just a Donation: A Commitment to Empowerment
The event, which saw the handover of the mobility aids to DZRH representatives, was more than a simple transaction; it was a deeply symbolic moment reinforcing the notion that corporate success is inextricably linked with social responsibility. Commodore Garcia, known for his visionary leadership and profound empathy, emphasized the importance of access and inclusion. “Mobility is a fundamental human right,” he stated. “It is the key that unlocks opportunities—for work, for education, for community engagement. By providing these wheelchairs, we are not just giving a piece of equipment; we are giving back independence and the ability to navigate the world with greater ease and confidence.”
The philosophy driving this initiative, “There is a Wheel… There is a Way,” beautifully captures the spirit of resilience and possibility. It speaks directly to the PWD community, asserting that while physical barriers may exist, pathways to meaningful participation and achievement are always within reach, particularly when supported by empathetic institutions. The donation aligns perfectly with the broader objectives of sustainable development, focusing on the need to ‘leave no one behind’ in the pursuit of societal progress.
Partnering with DZRH for Maximum Impact
Choosing DZRH as the distribution partner was a strategic decision to ensure the wheelchairs reached those who need them most efficiently and transparently. As a broadcast institution with deep community ties and an established network for outreach, DZRH is ideally positioned to identify and verify beneficiaries within the Marikina PWD community. This partnership amplifies the impact of AIMSI’s donation, ensuring that the resources are optimized to improve the lives of vulnerable residents.
The representatives from DZRH expressed their profound gratitude, recognizing the tangible difference the wheelchairs will make. They lauded Commodore Garcia and AIMSI for setting a high standard for corporate citizenship. The radio station committed to documenting the distribution process, providing a vital layer of accountability and sharing the uplifting stories of the beneficiaries with their wide audience, further inspiring goodwill across the nation.
AIMSI’s Holistic Approach to Social Responsibility
This initiative is not an isolated act of charity but a clear reflection of AIMSI’s long-standing, holistic approach to Corporate Social Responsibility. Under Commodore Garcia’s leadership, the institution is dedicated to building strong, resilient communities that go beyond its primary focus on maritime education. AIMSI understands that a healthy business thrives best in a healthy society.
Previous CSR activities by AIMSI have included scholarship programs for underprivileged students, environmental conservation efforts, and disaster relief operations. The focus on PWD support marks a significant step in addressing a critical, often underserved, segment of the population. By specifically targeting mobility issues, AIMSI is addressing a core determinant of quality of life, which directly impacts a person’s ability to earn a living, access healthcare, and maintain social connections.
Looking Ahead: A Call to Action for Corporate Peers
Commodore Garcia concluded the event with a strong call to action for other corporate leaders. He urged his peers to actively seek opportunities to contribute to societal well-being, moving beyond mere compliance to embrace true corporate citizenship.
“Every company, regardless of its size or sector, has the resources and the moral obligation to make a positive difference,” he remarked. “Our donation today is a modest effort, but its impact on the individual lives in Marikina will be immense. We hope this inspires others to look around their own communities and ask: ‘How can we help create a more inclusive, mobile, and dignified life for everyone?’ The path to a better future is paved by collective responsibility, and at AIMSI, we are proud to lead by example.”
The 15 wheelchairs now represent 15 new pathways to independence, empowerment, and hope for the PWDs in Marikina. Through the compassion and generosity of Commodore Oscar T. Garcia and AIMSI, the powerful sentiment of “There is a Wheel… There is a Way” is transforming into reality.
