Harcy Joy Dela Cruz receives the Yoast Care fund for her contribution to the WordPress community

Meet Harcy Joy Dela Cruz, a valued member of the WordPress community! Brian Lumagod nominated her for the Yoast Care fund because of her commitment and valuable contributions. Let’s learn more about this passionate WordPress enthusiast.

Nominator Brian Lumagod: “Harcy is a highly engaged and dedicated member of the WordPress community. She founded the WordPress Cagayan de Oro WP Community in the Philippines, demonstrating her commitment to the growth and development of WordPress in her region. During WordCamp Asia 2025, Harcy showcased exceptional diligence and dedication as an organizer. She earned the nickname “the lovely coaster girl” for ensuring that volunteers, organizers, and sponsors were promptly escorted to the service buses and no one was left behind. I wholeheartedly recommend Harcy as a deserving recipient of the Yoast Care Fund. Her passion, hard work, and commitment to the community make her an ideal candidate for this reward.”

Let’s get to know Harcy Joy Dela Cruz

Those are some lovely words by Brian. Let’s get to know Harcy a bit better and ask her some questions about her work and passion for WordPress:

Harcy, what do you do in the WordPress space?

The great thing about WordPress is that you can explore various areas based on your passion and interest. I am currently one of the meetup organizers from Cagayan de Oro. And we focus on helping college students learn and explore WordPress, showing them how it can be a valuable tool for building their careers after graduation.

Organizing local meetups has also created a safe and supportive space for professionals: we use our time to network, share information, and exchange ideas. The part I enjoy most is building community and helping others grow through WordPress. Outside of the community, I work as a freelance SEO professional.

How did you first discover WordPress, and why did you start contributing?

I first discovered WordPress in college, though I didn’t explore it in depth then. My interest really grew when I landed my first remote job and realized there were so many things I could do and learn with WordPress.

I started contributing after attending my first WordCamp in Cebu. I thought, “What if I volunteer too? How would it feel? What would the experience be like?” Honestly, it was amazing. It was a completely different experience, and hearing other people’s thoughts and knowledge felt great. There was so much to learn.

What excites you most about WordPress?

What fascinates me most is how WordPress can empower literally anyone. You don’t need a complex or advanced education to use it; just a willingness to learn the basics, and you’re good to go. And of course, the people behind it make it even more special. The amazing global community takes pride in organizing local meetups and WordCamps and finding other ways to contribute and share what they’re passionate about. That kind of energy and openness is truly phenomenal.

What’s your favorite WordPress memory or something you’re most proud of?

This one’s tough. Every WordCamp I attend becomes a core memory, but the most recent one stands out the most. I was part of the organizing team for WordCamp Asia 2025 in the Philippines. Although I’ve volunteered many times at our local meetups, this was my first time organizing a flagship event. It was an incredible experience working alongside passionate and talented people from all over the world. I met so many wonderful individuals whose faces I still remember, and I truly hope our paths cross again at future WordCamps.

Where can people connect with you online, at WordCamps, or other meetups?

I am active on Facebook, LinkedIn, WordPress, and X. I attend and contribute to WordCamps and organize local WordPress meetups. If you’re attending an upcoming WordCamp in Asia or a community meetup here in the Philippines, there’s a great chance you’ll see me there. Don’t hesitate to talk to me, I’d love to connect with new people. I’ll see you around. Salamat!

Thank you for this interview, Harcy, and for all your contributions to the WordPress community! Do you know someone like Harcy Joy Dela Cruz who also deserves to be in the spotlight? Go to our Yoast Care page and nominate them right away.