Well-respected businessman and philanthropist Don Ramon Aboitiz founded the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI) in 1966 to continue his philanthropic initiatives in line with his philosophy, “the dignity of man is best respected by helping him realize his hopes and sharing with him the burden of his fears”. RAFI was registered with the SEC as a non-stock, non-profit organization on Nov. 16, 1966 to support various groups that needed financial assistance and to advance the quality of education in the country. Guided by such a vision, RAFI focused on supporting charitable groups and vocational education.
From 1970s-1982, under the leadership of Don Ramon’s son Eduardo, RAFI evolved to become a developmental organization. The Foundation continued to be involved in charitable endeavors but it has now focused on participatory development programs.
Today, RAFI is one of the most recognizable non-government organizations in the Visayas and Mindanao. Its holistic programs and strategic partnerships address a wide range of issues confronting the communities it is serving.