Working with HLAF was one of most interesting and rewarding experiences I can imagine. Not only is the staff a group of the nicest people I've met, but the work they do is changing lives. As a photographer, I was able to spend time with both the staff and the inmates that HLAF was helping in the prisons - allowing me a view of how the organization is working to enact systemic change, while seeing how this work affected individual lives. Their work, rather than just put a band-aid on a problem, produces real changes and empowers individuals. I was proud to be part of a group working to increase awareness and improve the lives of everyday Filipinos.

Last August 2008 our staff Mr. Julius Montealegre was freed after five years of being detained in Quezon City Jail. Almost six years ago Mr. Julius was a man trying to survive in the Metropolis. He had no office job but he earned money by being a helper in a catering service. When allowed to work, Mr. Julius earns 250 pesos a day. He was not well-off but in Philippine standard, he was not very poor.