Building bright beginnings as Dr. George T. Yang opens 52nd Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit

Group of people at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly opened Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit Learning Center in Biñan, Laguna, featuring festive decorations and Ronald McDonald.

Biñan, Laguna — For more than twenty years, McDonald’s Philippines Founder and Chairman Dr. George T. Yang has been quietly building more than just the country’s most beloved quick-service brand. He has been building futures—one child, one classroom, one community at a time.

Through Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philippines (RMHC), Dr. Yang has dedicated himself to strengthening early childhood development by establishing Bahay Bulilit Learning Centers in underserved areas nationwide. Each center gives 90 to 100 children aged 2 to 4 a safe, joyful place to learn, play, socialize, and imagine a bigger tomorrow.

The newly opened 52nd Bahay Bulilit in Biñan, Laguna—personally gifted by Dr. Yang to the city’s young learners—is more than a new learning facility. It is a powerful reminder of his enduring belief that education is every child’s first step toward a better life. Every Bahay Bulilit stands as a symbol of hope and compassion, a nurturing place where children discover their abilities and are guided by teachers and volunteers who share his commitment to empowering the next generation.

A group of children in red and white uniforms posing for a photo with Dr. George T. Yang and Ronald McDonald at the grand opening of the Bahay Bulilit Learning Center in Biñan, Laguna.

With 52 centers now operating across the Philippines, RMHC supports the early learning journey of more than 5,000 children every year.

Located in Barangay Poblacion, the Biñan Bahay Bulilit was officially turned over to the City Government on October 24. Leading the ceremony was Dr. George T. Yang, together with McDonald’s Philippines and RMHC leaders. They were welcomed by Mayor Angelo Alonte, Barangay Captain Lloyd Castelltort, and other city and barangay officials.

“It takes a community to raise a child, and I’m thankful that the people and leaders of Biñan share in our belief of giving more children a chance to thrive through education,” Dr. Yang said. “My hope is that this Bahay Bulilit becomes a safe and happy place where learning begins and dreams take root.”

Experts have long emphasized that early childhood—the years from birth to age five—is the most critical stage of development. Children need holistic care during this period: proper nutrition, early education, responsible caregiving, health support, and a safe environment. But for many Filipino communities, these resources remain difficult to access.

A brightly colored classroom at the Bahay Bulilit Learning Center featuring a mural with playful illustrations of children, educational elements like letters and numbers, and a setup with tables and chairs for young learners.

Bahay Bulilit Learning Centers help bridge this gap by offering a nurturing space that supports children’s cognitive, physical, emotional, and social growth during their most formative years.

“A strong start in life can make all the difference,” Dr. Yang added. “When we nurture children early, we build not just brighter futures for them, but a stronger future for the country.”

The Biñan center features a dedicated learning area, a reading nook, accessible hygiene facilities, and shelves filled with books and learning materials. Now under the management of the City Social Work and Development Office, it will provide free early childhood education to 90 to 100 children each school year.

“Dr. George Yang’s vision began with a simple belief—that every child deserves the chance to learn and dream,” shared Atty. Deng De Guzman, McDonald’s Director for Legal and RMHC Corporate Secretary. “His commitment continues to inspire McDonald’s Philippines to expand RMHC’s programs and bring more Bahay Bulilit Learning Centers to communities across the country.”

The turnout from the community made the opening even more festive. Daycare students enjoyed a storytelling session with Ronald McDonald and a special McDonald’s meal to celebrate the milestone.

To learn more about RMHC’s programs or to support its mission, visit rmhc.org.ph or the donation portal at rmhc.org.ph/donate/.

For information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Facebook, @mcdo_ph on Instagram, and @McDo_PH on X.

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