World Vision Philippines has officially launched “Chosen: A Child’s Choice,” a pioneering sponsorship campaign that flips the traditional donor model by allowing children to choose their own sponsors.
First introduced by World Vision Korea and now rolling out across six Asian markets, including the Philippines, Taiwan, Singapore, Indonesia, Japan, and Thailand, the initiative reimagines the beginning of sponsorship relationships. Instead of donors selecting children, prospective sponsors submit their photographs, which are then presented to children during a celebratory “Chosen Party.” From there, each child selects the sponsor they feel most connected to—marking the start of a deeply personal and meaningful journey.
At the heart of the campaign is Lee Junho, World Vision Korea’s honorary global ambassador, who led the regional rollout. Having supported the organisation for over 16 years, Lee brings a deeply personal perspective to the initiative, highlighting the emotional impact of sponsorship that begins with a single photograph and evolves into a lifelong connection.
Sponsors who join through World Vision Philippines will receive a special postcard featuring Lee Junho, reinforcing the campaign’s message that meaningful relationships can begin with something as simple as an image.
In the Philippines, the campaign is further amplified by the passionate support of fan communities such as Lee Junho PH. Through World Vision Philippines’ Fandoms for Change programme, these groups transform admiration for their idols into tangible acts of generosity, supporting causes that reflect shared values of compassion and social responsibility.
To participate, prospective sponsors can register online and submit a personal photo. During the Chosen Party, children review these images and select their sponsors freely. Approximately one month later, sponsors receive a photograph and a letter from the child who chose them, explaining their decision. Sponsorship contributions of Php 900 per month support holistic community development, including education, healthcare, nutrition, water and sanitation, livelihoods, and child protection.
Through its community-focused model, each sponsorship extends its impact beyond an individual child, benefiting four additional children within the same community.
With over 60 years of service in the Philippines, World Vision continues to work with local partners, communities, and institutions to drive sustainable, child-focused development—now with a renewed emphasis on choice, dignity, and connection through the Chosen campaign.
