NATIONAL Heroes Day has been observed in the Philippines every August 29, what's interesting about that day is that we are not only being reminded about the heroes in the past who fought for our independence but also, we are being informed about the heroism of regular people around us, this year, Revlon Professional Philippines took this very opportunity to interview and reward the heroes who braved the challenges and fought for what we all deserve, a happier and healthier world. The brand that lives by 'Living Boldly' provided a head-to-toe makeover to three different advocates on mental health, education and agriculture. More than that, they made sure that their heroism will echo in the celebration, featuring Rural Rising Philippines, Avegale Acosta and Prof. Emmanuel Raon – Santos.

First is Rural Rising Philippines (RuRi), led by spouses Ace and Andie Estrada of Baguio City, a collective, non-profit grassroots effort to help distressed Filipino farmers get back on their feet and feed the nation with pride. It helps by doing 'Rescue Buys' in areas where there is an over-production of fruits and vegetables, and by paying the farmers above-farm gate prices. RuRi then distributes the rescued produce to its members at below-bagsakan prices. The farmers win and so do the consumers. All fruits and vegetables that are not claimed within 48 hours are automatically donated to hungry communities in the NCR and to various community pantries. No produce goes to waste. When asked about their advocacy, Estrada said that 'We believe that when farmers are paid the right price, they have a chance at achieving rural prosperity; that by giving members access to fresh and cheap produce, they would share what they cannot consume to the needy or perhaps create a profitable reseller business; that by channeling all unclaimed or unsold produce to residents in economically depressed communities, their lives are sustained, their souls given hope'.