Efren Peñaflorida, CNN Hero of the Year!

Last month, I joined the whole nation in its campaign to help Efren Peñaflorida win in the search for the CNN Hero of Year.

This time, I join the whole nation in celebrating because Efren won the CNN Hero of Year award!

In a headline entitled “Pushcart educator named CNN Hero of the Year,” the CNN website announces the proclamation of our very own as the winner in this year’s search for modern day hero

Perhaps, when Efren started his advocacy, he never expected nor even dreamed that he would reach this far. His only intention then was to bring hope to poor children who can’t afford to go to school… a simple, honest and pure intention.

So while our leaders were busy throwing brickbats at each other (only to reconcile later to pursue a common political interest), Efren and his group, the Dynamic Teen Company were in the streets bringing education to poor children in their own little way.

While lawmakers where busy passing bills and modifying existing laws, Efren was already doing his best to help change the lives of poor children.

Efren didn’t expect this international recognition to come the day he started to trek the streets with his pushcart… but because he was sincere in his actions… his efforts didn’t go unnoticed, so he could also inspire others to help others… as he said in his acceptance speech… “be the hero to the next one in need…”

Here’s a video of his acceptance speech during the awarding.

Thanks for pinaswatcher for uploading the video on YouTube.

Mabuhay ka Efren!

May you to continue to inspire more “sincere heroes” as you continue your selfless devotion to help the poor children of our country.

We are proud of you!

Tags: 2009 Hero of the Year, CNN, CNN Hero of the Year, Dynamic Teen Company, Efren Peñaflorida, Filipino, Kariton Klassroom, Philippines, Pinoy, Pushcart Educator, YouTube