MANILA, Philippines - Out-of-school youths must have decent options for survival to have better lives, said an executive of the Alay Lakad Foundation Incorporated (ALFI).

If there are no ways to bring food and other necessities to the family table, these youths are vulnerable to crimes and other nefarious activities, said Frank Evaristo, ALFI President.

ALFI has been conducting the annual Alay Lakad Walk for a Cause to generate funds to help out-of-school youths.

Funds raised are used to cover the tuition fees and books of out-of-school youths wanting to finish high school, and trade and skills training for those looking for jobs of planning to go into small business.

Out-of-School youths tinker with computer parts at a workshop sponsored by the Alay Lakad Foundation Incorporated. ALFI provides financial assistance to organizations that have programs for out-of-school youths. Credit: Philippine Information Agency

In the last three decades, ALFI has funded projects for more than 50,000 out-of-school youths aged 14-24 years old.

Some of these youths opted for livelihood assistance and ventured into business via animal farming, appliance repairs, home crafts, food processing, cosmetology, pedicab operations, dressmaking, and curtain-making.

Others joined the work force. “Some of them are now working in local fast food companies. Some are waiters and bartenders in Europe and in the Middle East,” said Evaristo.

ALFI is again conducting the Alay Lakad Walk for a Cause on Sunday, September 5 in Manila, and on other dates in Iligan, Bacolod, Palawan, and Batangas.

Evaristo is appealing to the public to participate in this year's Alay Lakad even as he thanked them for their continuous support the past decades.

In 2009, close to P1 million was raised by ALFI in a single day with donations from individuals and organizations such as the Rotary Club, Lions Clubs, Philippine Jaycees, Kiwanis, and government institutions like the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Those interested to join the walk or in the services of ALFI may call the foundation at (632) 523-1539 and (632) 522-6134 or send e-mail to alaylakad35@yahoo.com.