Carrying forward the spirit of our culture with
COMPASSION
[malasakit]
GRATITUDE
[pasasalamat]
KINDNESS
[kabutihang-loob]
Our Mission
At the heart of the Bonifacio Valera, Jr. Foundation is a deep commitment to the values that shaped kuya Bon’s life and work, values deeply rooted in Filipino culture. Through every step of our journey, we are guided by malasakit(compassion), pasasalamat (gratitude), and kabutihang-loob (kindness). These aren’t just ideals; they are the spirit behind how we honor our heritage, support our communities, and carry kuya Bon’s legacy forward with purpose and love.
Motivated by these guiding values, our mission is to nurture cultural pride, creativity, and connection through joyful celebrations of Filipino culture, immersive learning experiences, and inclusive, community-centered programs. We believe that compassion strengthens community, gratitude grounds us in purpose, and kindness opens doors to belonging.
Central to this mission is a scholarship fund dedicated to supporting individuals and organizations who continue his work — through teaching, performing, storytelling, and cultural preservation. In addition, we offer programs that uplift tradition, honor ancestry, and empower the next generation to lead with compassion, gratitude, and kindness.
While Filipino culture and pride remain the foundation of everything we do, we also embrace fresh, creative expressions that enrich our work such as body percussion, contemporary vocal techniques in our developing children’s choir, and mindful movement practices like yoga, blending tradition with innovation in ways that are meaningful, engaging, and relevant to today’s youth.
The Bonifacio Valera, Jr. Foundation believes in the power of community and the importance of collaborating with individuals and organizations who share our vision. To ensure our programs remain inclusive and welcoming, we are committed to offering donation-based workshops whenever possible, so that financial barriers never stand in the way of participation.
Our Story
The Bonifacio Valera, Jr. Foundation began as a labor of love, created in memory of Bonifacio Valera, Jr., a beloved artist, teacher, mentor, choreographer, singer, and cultural advocate known to many as kuya Bon. Throughout his life, he championed Filipino arts and community connection, believing that music, dance, and shared experience brought joy, belonging, and purpose. He may not have called it a tool for healing but that’s exactly what it became for so many who learned from him, moved with him, and were uplifted by his kind and compassionate energy.
Founded in 2025 by his sister, Nerinna Valera, the Bonifacio Valera, Jr. Foundation carries his spirit forward through community workshops, cultural events, collaborative performances, and storytelling initiatives — all rooted in a deep love for Filipino heritage. On April 26, 2025, the Foundation was officially recognized as a nonprofit organization by the State of California. The Foundation is currently working towards 501(c)(3) status.
Fun fact...kuya Bon moved through water like a dolphin on vacation - stylish and completely in his element.
Foundation Updates
We’re proud to launch our very first program:
Rhythm & Roots - A Rhythmic Journey Through Rhythm, Dance, Music and the Filipino/a/x Spirit
Every Saturday for six weeks beginning July 12, 2025 and ending August 16, 2025, 10am-12pm.
This six-week intensive for children ages 6–14 features voice, rhythm, body percussion, and traditional Filipino folk dance—all culminating in a joyful community performance. The program is donation-based and open to all.
