Raffy E.
Raffy grew up in poverty, but his unyielding spirit paved the way for a brighter future.
Growing up in a family of 10, Raffy’s childhood was defined by sacrifice, often attending school on an empty stomach. Forced to leave home young, he took on demanding jobs—before finding his calling in construction. Starting as a laborer, he worked his way up to skilled worker and eventually foreman. Despite financial struggles, his dream of a better life for his children kept him moving forward.
His early years were spent in a modest home, where the daily struggle to make ends meet was constant. With food scarce, hunger became a familiar companion. While some siblings continued their education, Raffy had to give up school to help support the family.
Though he dreamed of becoming an engineer, survival took priority. Hunger and financial struggles made education a luxury he couldn’t afford. Yet, Raffy clung to the belief that hard work would lead to better days, vowing to build a future where his children wouldn’t endure the same struggles he once carried.
Chasing Opportunities
In 2004, Raffy left home to find work, a painful but necessary decision to support his family. He took on any job he could: sewing, steaming, dishwashing, and canteen work, whatever work he found his way.
Each role tested and strengthened his resolve.
Raffy found his break in the construction industry, three years after. Starting as a laborer, he embraced the demanding work, learning every aspect of the trade. His dedication paid off, earning him a promotion to foreman by 2009—a role he cherishes as proof that hard work can overcome even the toughest odds.
A Pandemic and New Challenges
The pandemic in 2020 brought construction to a standstill, leaving Raffy and his family in financial uncertainty. Once again in survival mode, he and his wife opened a small fish stall to make ends meet. It was only a temporary solution, but it kept his family afloat during the most challenging months of the crisis. He refused to let the circumstances defeat him, pressing forward with his family’s welfare always in mind.
When construction resumed, Raffy was hired by one of Lhoopa’s partner contractors who not only valued his skills but also provided him with the stability he had long sought. Unique to Lhoopa is the upfront assistance for project expenses for its partner contractors. This ensures projects are started without delay, and guaranteed to be finished - removing uncertainty to job security for workers like Raffy.
“Si Lhoopa hindi mahirap kasama sa trabaho... Si Lhoopa muna magdo-down ng pera para maumpisahan agad ang trabaho.” Raffy adds, emphasizing the opportunity that marked a turning point in his life.
From Hardship to Hope
Today, Raffy is driven by the hardships of his youth—going to school hungry—and is determined to give his children a life free from such struggles.
He dreams of a future where his children can focus on education without sacrificing their childhood for survival.
Reflecting on his journey, he offers a simple yet profound advice: “Yung mga katulad ko dati na dumadaan sa mga ganyang hindi ka makakain ng almusal... pumapasok kayo nang walang papel... Laban lang kasi; hindi naman lahat ng oras, hindi lahat ng araw, lagi tayong mahirap... Kung magsikap ka sa buhay, talagang lahat mararating... Basta sikap lang, sipag, tiyaga.”
The hunger and sacrifices of his past shaped his determination to build a better future. Today, all of this fuels Raffy's determination to keep moving forward, working tirelessly, and ensuring that his family never has to endure the same hardships he faced.
Raffy’s story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there’s always hope for a better tomorrow. For those who dare to dream and work tirelessly, the possibilities are endless.
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