Protecting the environment was her priority. Promoting the beauty and culture of this country was one of her main advocacy. Her strong desire to make people appreciate all the resources that we have, left an impact on every person who has been part of her wonderful journey. Gina Lopez was truly a person who lived her life in the service of the Filipino.

Jason Hubila Mendoza is an 18-year old student of Gubat National High School and a youth member of Seeds of Hope, an assisted people’s organization of ABS-CBN Foundation- Bantay Kalikasan in Gubat, Sorsogon. Jason is one of the many people who have been influenced by the strong passion of Ms. Lopez. “Bilang isang miyembro ng Seeds of Hope, nagkaroon ako ng pagkakataong makita si Ma'am Gina sa personal. Nainspira ako sa kanyang mga salitang binitawan. Puro papuri ang natanggap ko mula sa kanya. Nakakamangha na napaka-mapagpakumbaba niyang tao sa kabila nang kasaganahan.” (As a member of Seeds of Hope, I had a chance to personally meet Ms. Gina Lopez. I was inspired by her words. I received compliments from her. I was amazed by her humility despite her abundant life.)

To show his gratitude and appreciation for the legacy left by Ms. Lopez, Jason painted a beautiful 21 x 28-inch painting on textile with acrylic entitled, “Gina Lopez’s Lotus”. The name was derived from the delicate flower lotus which symbolizes purity and devotion. Just like a lotus, Ms. Lopez was someone who had a pure and devoted heart for helping her fellow Filipinos through her advocacies.

All the materials that Jason used for the painting came from the start up fund that Ms. Lopez donated to Seeds of Hope. The painting was formally unveiled during a tribute held on October 3, 2019 at the Lola Sayong Eco Surf Camp in Gubat, Sorsogon. Representatives from most of the communities supported by Ms. Lopez were present.

For Jason, Ms. Lopez will remain to be an inspiration to everyone, not just because of her powerful words but also because of her firm resolve to take action. Her contribution to this country and her undying support for the marginalized will always be remembered.

Truly, there is a Gina in each one of us. She may not be here to witness how people will continue what she had started but her legacy will live on forever.