DepEd Hero KC Mangareng goes above and beyond for children in hospital care

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MAKATI CITY, 26 February 2026 – For Teacher Kristine Crisseda Mangareng, Teacher I, at Longos National High School in Malabon City, education has never been confined to the four walls of the classroom. It is, she says, rooted in compassion, service, and community.



Nearly eight years ago, on May 2, 2018—what would have been her late mother’s birthday—Teacher KC asked her then Grade 9 students to join her in a simple gift-giving activity at the National Children's Hospital. Her mother had died the year before from Stage 4 stomach cancer, and the young teacher was navigating grief and depression.

“Akala ko noon one-time event lang ‘yun,” she recalled. “May isang batang nagtanong sa akin, sabi niya, ‘Ma’am, kailan po tayo babalik?’ And that question changed my life.”



From that question grew Project Ulayaw: Above and Beyond, now a recognized non-government organization that provides emotional support, educational access, and hope to children in challenging circumstances.



The organization’s first advocacy centered on pediatric cancer patients at the National Children’s Hospital. Volunteers brought hygiene kits, school supplies, and toys; but more than material goods, they offered their presence.



“Healing is not only medical,” Teacher KC said. “It is emotional. It is human.”



As needs surfaced beyond hospital walls, Project Ulayaw expanded. Over time, the initiative evolved into four core programs.



Brave Art, launched in 2020, helps young cancer patients sell their paintings to support chemotherapy expenses.



In 2023, the group formally launched HospiEscuela in partnership with Warriors for Warriors: Your Blood, Their Lives. While the partner organization mobilizes blood donation drives, HospiEscuela ensures continuity of education for hospitalized children.



Another initiative, SandigEscuela, offers educational support to children in institutional care. Project Ulayaw also maintains partnerships with parents in Malabon raising children with cerebral palsy and rare conditions.



Recently, Teacher KC was recognized as a DepEd Hero for her tireless efforts and the impact of Project Ulayaw on children and communities.



“I’m not surprised that your students and your members succeed, because when you see people less fortunate than yourselves, you really appreciate life more and you give more. Because you realize that many are not as fortunate or have not been given the same opportunities,” Education Secretary Sonny Angara said.



“The Department is blessed to have you. Talagang tuwing may programa kaming ganito, nawawala yung pagod namin at sulit ang lahat ng sakripisyo namin dahil alam namin may katulad ninyo sa field,” Sec. Angara added.



For Teacher KC, the recognition belongs to her students, volunteers, and donors who have helped bring Project Ulayaw’s vision to life.

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