Consuelo: Stories of Hope

Authored by Alexandra Amanda Eduque, Consuelo: Stories of Hope takes a closer look at the life and legacy of Dona Consuelo “Chito” Madrigal. Eduque, Dona Chito’s grandniece, writes about Dona Chito’s influence not only on her family but on poor communities whose welfare was foremost in her mind.

“Tita Chito did not only love. She loved greatly, wholeheartedly, and abundantly – in her lifetime and beyond – as evident in the lives her foundation has been able to help. Through the legacy she has left behind, her parting words to me could not have stood truer to the test of time,” Eduque shares.

In 2024, CCMF-Bikol held the Search for the Most Improved Enterprise. The Microfinance members whose enterprises made the most impact in their families and communities were selected. The selection was made through a province-wide screening process, in collaboration with Ateneo de Naga University College of Business and Accountancy and the Department of Trade and Industry in the Province of Camarines Sur. The winners, their struggles and success, are featured in the book, as well as stories of homepartners and scholars and snapshots of how CCMF-Bikol continuously endeavors to fulfill Dona Chito’s marching orders.

The book was first launched at the International Book Fair in Frankfurt, Germany where the Philippines was the guest of honor. A Philippine launch was held on November 11 in Manila where the book was presented before CEOs interested in social enterprises, ambassadors and the Madrigal family and friends.

Published by CCMF-Bikol and Ateneo de Naga University, the book presents how Dona Chito, through the Foundation, stood firm on poverty alleviation that uplifts dignity through capacity building and empowerment. For her, the proverbial “teaching a man to fish,” was not only a noble idea but a mission that should be passed on to generations.

On December 20, Eduque will grace the General Assembly with her presence, to personally present the book to the men and women whose stories are interwoven with Dona Chito’s profound concern for the poor.

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