JUNE JOLTS JOY!
Positive feelings, notably joy above all others, underpin the month of June. This month, we celebrate each other’s successes by working together to protect children, attaining yet another educational milestone, discovering other nations’ cultures, and taking time to stop, think, and appreciate nature. At LVC, we thank the Lord for our dear Sisters’ joyful and generative presence. Sure did; Mary brought them into our lives. And then, with joy in our hearts, we welcome the new community members. Soaked with the Lord’s sustaining grace, we are excited and hopeful for the coming months.
SR. MARIVIC & SR. CANDY, FMA, JOINS THE SAFEGUARDING SEMINAR IN ROME ITALY
LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN
LVF-PALAWAN REAP PROGRAM MOVING-UP CEREMONY!
PSU INTERNSHIP
LVF CUBAO-QUEZON CITY
#iamBRAVE
LVF’s #FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS IN ESCALANTE!
COMMEMORATION OF THE WORLD DAY AGAINST CHILD LABOR!
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR MOVING UP, SCHOLARS!
SUMMER RECREATIONAL VACATION-CUBAO, QC
LVF WELCOMES NEW SUPERIORS: SR. PHEBE AND SR. ROSE
LVF-MALIHAO, VICTORIAS, NEGROS OCC.
6TH SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL AND 23RD TVET GRADUATION-MALIHAO
BOOKKEEPING NC III EXAMINATION
TRAINEES’ DEPLOYMENT
ON-THE-SPOT BEST RESEARCH PROPOSAL CONTEST
DISCOVERING JAPANESE LANGUAGE AND CUISINE!
YEAR-END OUTING-MALIHAO
A MOMENT OF THANKSGIVING TO OUR TRANSFERRING SISTERS!
DSWD RAPID ASSESSMENT OF LVF CENTER-BASES PROGRAMS
LVF-QC
LVF-PALAWAN
LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
VIRTUAL CATECHESIS
SOLIDARITYSERYE
PASWI-COP
SR. MARIVIC & SR. CANDY, FMA, JOINS SAFEGUARDING SEMINAR IN ROME, ITALY
June 19-22. Sr. Ma. Victoria (Marivic) Sta. Ana, FMA, and Sr. Candy Carmen Balverde, FMA, attended the 2023 International Safeguarding Conference (ISC) at Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, Italy. The ISC has been designed to help people work together to protect children and vulnerable adults from abuse. Prior to the Conference in Rome, a series of small group discussions among various organizations were conducted on six continents via Zoom videoconferencing tackling Accountability to (1) Children; (2) Survivors; (3) Organizations; and (4) the Public. Sr. Marivic as a safeguarding professional/expert was chosen to be one of the 7 participants for the four-month-long study under Dr. Naomi Navarro Poca, MD. The conference is attended by individuals from various backgrounds, including Church leaders, safeguarding professionals, trauma specialists, and others dedicated to preventing and tackling abuse. The aim of the ISC is to provide a platform for learning, networking, and sharing best practices in safeguarding. The main theme for this year is “Sustaining Organisational Accountability.” The whole conference is composed of presentations of speakers who are experts in safeguarding, working group sharing, Q and A with the Keynote speakers, and at the end, a platform for interaction and exchange between practitioners and researchers.
LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN
LVF-PALAWAN REAP PROGRAM MOVING-UP CEREMONY!
June 5. The Laura Vicuna Foundation Inc – Palawan community held the Moving-Up Ceremony for eight (8) Junior High School completers under the UST Angelicum College Inc.- Re-Entry Education Agenda for the Poor (REAP) Program. Sr. Rosalia A. Panganiban, FMA, LVF -Palawan Center new Superior/Animator, gave an inspirational message and congratulated the completers and their parents. The completers recited their pledge of becoming a past pupil of Don Bosco, led by Mrs. Matet P. Palma, a past pupil, and staff. This marks yet another significant turning point in the lives of the graduates. Four (4) years of effort, sacrifice, and deciding to live apart from their families have paid off. All parents express their appreciation for the care, compassion, and support they have received from the Laura Vicuna Foundation Inc., the FMA Sisters, and especially to the UST Angelicum College.
PSU INTERNSHIP
June 7. The Laura Vicuna Foundation Inc. – Palawan conducted an orientation for the first-year College of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Students of Palawan State University (PSU) San Rafael College for their practicum, lasting 240 hours. Thank you for choosing our farm to become your partner agency and a place in your learning journey.
LVF CUBAO-QUEZON CITY
#iamBRAVE
Around one hundred thirty (130) beneficiaries of 4Ps San Carlos City, Negros Occ. (children, youth, and mothers) participated in an advocacy session on I am BRAVE (Buddies Reject Abuse, Violence, and Exploitation) conducted by Ms. Mercedes Juncia on June 10, 2023, at the covered court of Brgy. Ermita, Sipaway Island. There was no dull moment for the attendees during the interactive discussion. In conclusion, they committed to do the following: be careful, alert, and cautious all the time, be critical thinkers, and above all, respect one another.
LVF’s #FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS IN ESCALANTE
June 06. More than 300 pupils of Buenavista Elementary School, Escalante City, have joined LVF’s #FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS facilitated by LVF’s Child Advocates, headed by Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, FMA & Sr. Erlinda Soriano, FMA, with the staff. It was a sincere discussion in which the students shared their aspirations to become teachers, police officers, or doctors, to name a few. “Mag-aral nang mabuti; maging mabait; maging masunurin” (do good work in your studies; act morally upright and submit to authority) are some of the suggestions they provide for how to put those goals into action. Some even said that helping their parents, whom they have watched struggle, even sending them to school, is the only way to realize their aspirations. It is incredible to hear that these students are conscious of their circumstances, aware of and appreciative of their parents’ efforts, and committed to pursuing their goals.
COMMEMORATION OF THE WORLD DAY AGAINST CHILD LABOR
June 24. In observance of the World Day Against Child Labor, LVF held an advocacy education session concerning children in general and child labor issues in the Philippines. The session was led by Ms. Khaye Leal, an LVF Child Advocate, with assistance from Mr. Ryan, an LVF Social Worker. While Mr. Ryan talked about the reporting process, Ms. Leal emphasized the distinction between child work and child labor and offered its legal description in accordance with RA 9231. The grim reality of child labor in the Philippines is not unfamiliar to Filipinos. The chance to put food on their tables is one of the many variables contributing to youngsters becoming victims of this crime. On June 23, LVF was invited by the Council Against Child Labor (NCACL) to lead the World Day Against Child Labor (WDACL) Culminating activity through an invocation at Buena Park Sports Complex, Caloocan. This year, the WDACL theme is “Buong Bansa, Lahat ng Bata, sama-sama para sa Batang Malaya“. LVF continues to advocate for the protection and empowerment of children.
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR MOVING UP, SCHOLARS
June 05. LVF is proud with the achievements of its four learners, Shane, Vicky, Lyka, and Josephine, who received their diplomas from UST Angelicum’s Junior High School. Vicky said, “I am thankful for the chance the UST Angelicum REAP (Re-entry Education Agenda for the Poor) Program provides for students like us. I feel extremely fortunate to have the Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc., the Sisters, and in particular, Sr. Marivic, FMA, who have supported, guided, and encouraged each of us to reach our full potential”
“I am very happy for this another milestone,” Shane added.
LVF is excited to witness God’s beautiful plan for them!
SUMMER RECREATIONAL VACATION
Sun, sand, and sea. Far from the busy life of Metro Manila, the LVF girls, Sisters, and staff took a moment to pause, breathe in the salty and calming sea wind, and enjoy the feeling of being at one with nature during their summer recreational vacation in the Sta.Ana’s private resort in Negros Occ. This is after the graduation of LVF’s six (6) scholars. God has indeed made all things beautiful. Everyone enjoyed taking turns riding the kayak; others took the opportunity to learn how to swim or at the least, learn how to stay afloat. It was an experience that they will always remember. “Ang saya! First time kong magdagat” Princess, a Vicunian, exclaimed! The sea is like the abounding grace of the Lord.ꟷ So vast. So rich. It soothes. It heals. Added to their escapade is the tour at Campuestuhan Highland Resort in Talisay where they saw dinosaurs in motion, giant gorillas, and more. The LVF Community is grateful to the Sta.Ana family for their generous accommodation especially to Sr. Marivic, Atty. Regis Puno, Mr. Andy Lok, and Atty. Mean Diccion-Recto for making this vacation possible.
LVF WELCOMES NEW SUPERIORS: SR. PHEBE AND SR. ROSE
June 13. The LVF community welcomed the new animators/superiors respectively, Sr. Phebe Lacse, FMA,n in Cubao and Sr. Rosalia Panganiban FMA in Palawan. As the Foundation’s Managing Director, Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, FMA, stays at LVC.
LVF-MALIHAO, VICTORIAS, NEGROS OCC.
6th SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL AND 23RD TVET GRADUATION-MALIHAO
June 10. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc.- Malihao held the 6th Senior High School (SHS) and 23rd Technical Vocational Institute Commencement Exercises at the School Multi-Purpose Hall with seventy (70) graduate students. The Baccalaureate Mass was presided by Fr. Eligio Santos, SDB. A former student of the LVWDTC, who recently professed as a Daughters of Mary Help of Christian, Sr. Ma. Unissa M. Caberoy, FMA, was invited as the guest speaker and shared her life’s journey. As they entered the stage to receive their diplomas, the students and their parents were excited and grateful.
BOOKKEEPING NC III EXAMINATION
June 08-09 &16. Nineteen (19) Grade 12-BOT and ten (10) Technical-Vocational Institute (TVI) – Business and Office Technology trainees of Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc.- Malihao took the three-day Bookkeeping NC III examination at Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) RTC- Talisay City, Negros Occidental. Six (6) out of twenty-nine (29) trainees passed. The school is proud of them for giving their best.
TRAINEES’ DEPLOYMENT
June 27-30. The Laura Vicuna Women Development Training Center (LVWDTC) has deployed twenty-five (25) trainees to its various partner companies in Manila and Negros. Sr. Sheila Marie A. Ducot, FMA, Sr. Ernielyn Deypalan, FMA, and Ms. Ma. Socorro C. Bayles deployed 25 LVWDTC students to its different partner companies in Manila and Negros for their training! Fifteen (15) trainees were deployed to Alter to Fit, four (4) were assigned to Lots a Pizza, five (5) trainees to Pet Express, and the remaining one (1) was sent to Alas Oplas. On June 29, two garment technology trainees were deployed in Ysabelle’s Bridal Shop in Bacolod by Sr. Therese Yvonne L. Jance, FMA, and Ms. Ruby Ann B. Querubin. Everyone expressed their gratitude to Sr. Yvonne for her tenacity and dedication in raising funds (for meal costs and toiletries) for these young dreamers. We ask the Lord to keep blessing her for having a good heart.
ON-THE-SPOT BEST RESEARCH PROPOSAL CONTEST
June 26. As part of the Victorias City Environment Week Celebration 2023, the Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc.- Malihao participated in the “On-the-Spot Best Research Proposal Contest” hosted in Gloriville Subd. Brgy. 13, Victorias City. Three Grade 12 Business and Office Technology (BOT) students who participated in the competition were Arnel B. Beronia, Angela G. Sepsia, and Vea C. Villarea. They each took home the consolation prize of 900 pesos. Their coach, Ms. Ma. Victoria V. Seluce supported them by accompanying them throughout the competition. Despite not having won the competition, the students are thrilled for the experience of being able to engage is what matters most to them.
DISCOVERING JAPANESE LANGUAGE AND CUISINE
June 05. The Grade 12-level trainees in the Hotel Restaurant Services (HRS) and Technical Vocational Institute (TVI) – Hotel Restaurant Services (HRS) took part in the Japanese language and cuisine lesson led by Sr. Lido, FMA, along with her Japanese friends Ms. Megumi Tanabe, Mr. Oishi Mitsuhisa, Mr. Yukihito Mochizuki, and Ms. Shizuka Hori. They taught the students how to make sushi rice, “Sumeshi” and Japanese Rice, “Hakumai.” The students presented them with a thank-you card to show appreciation for their generosity.
YEAR-END OUTING-MALIHAO
June 12-14. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc.- Malihao faculty, staff, support personnel, and the 3 FMA sisters, Sr. Ma. Guia S. Asparen, FMA, Sr. Sheila Marie A. Ducot, FMA and Sr. Josefina D. Oliveros, FMA, had a great time on their three-day year-end outing in Cebu! Taking their time, they met with Sr. Lilimae G. Escasinas, FMA, former Technical Directress of the school. They traveled to Moalboal, Cebu, and enjoyed the resort’s pristine beach. Before traveling to Mary Our Help of Christians-Cebu to spend the night, they attended the Holy Mass at Minglanilla Parish Church in the afternoon. They all appreciated the FMA sisters assigned to the school’s warm accommodations. They sang them a song and presented them with a card as a sign of their appreciation. They also visited the Basilica de Sto. Niño and Magellan’s Cross in Cebu proper, and went straight to Sirao Flower Garden: Little Amsterdam in Cebu. It was a beautiful and memorable experience for all! Each member of the LVF-Malihao community had the chance to get to know one another better, which grew their sense of community and belonging.
A MOMENT OF THANKSGIVING TO OUR TRANSFERRING SISTERS!
MALIHAO
June 27. The students of LVWDTC organized a short farewell program for Sr. Sheila Marie A. Ducot, FMA, Technical Directress, before her transfer to another community. the students created a video presentation that brought back memories for everyone. Some of the students presented her with cards that had heartfelt words, while others spoke to her directly and thanked her for her kindness, patience, and love toward them. Sr. Sheila expressed how much she appreciated their generosity and sincerity. In fact, she said that she is blessed to meet people like them. The faculty, employees, and Mr. Glen Tonog with Sr. Sheila at the Rooster Cafe in Silay City shared another farewell meal. They presented Sr. Sheila with a card and expressed their gratitude for what she had done to benefit everyone. Sr. Sheila was a bit emotional while expressing her amazement at the group’s unity.
CUBAO. The LVF Community sincerely thanks Sr. Erly Soriano, Sr. Candy, and Sr. Marivic, FMA, for their selfless commitment to serving the community, particularly the children, the lost, the last, and the least. While Sr. Vic will continue to serve as LVF’s managing director, Srs. Erly and Candy will be transferred to another community. Our love and prayers accompany them as they continue with their new mission.
DSWD RAPID ASSESSMENT OF LVF CENTER-BASES PROGRAMS
LVF-QC
June 20. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) conducted a rapid onsite assessment. The rapid assessment was a directive from the Department’s new head, Secretary Rex Gatchalian. The LVF center was praised by the ABSNET OIC, who noted that the facility is very child-friendly, clean, safe, and secure.
LVF-PALAWAN
June 14. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) regional office conducted a rapid assessment/spot visit to center-based (residential care) facilities, including the Laura Vicuna Foundation Inc – Palawan. It comprises personnel from Standard Section, Community-Based Section, Protective Services Division, and the Regional Alternative Child Care Office (RACCO). This ensures the program implementation’s safety, effectiveness, and sustainability.
LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
VIRTUAL CATECHESIS
As the Sisters and lay mission partner draw people closer to God, the LVF’s weekly virtual catechesis continues to be a source of life for its community. Participants engage in on the Holy Eucharist service following the catechesis. Ms. Eden Carmona, a consistent catechesis participant said “Unahin natin si Lord sa lahat ng bagay. Kahit anong pagod mo sa trabaho, kahit anong taas ng posisyon mo, palagi mo Siyang uunahin…kapag naencounter natin ang hirap at depression, magtiwala lang tayo ky God…Faith without action is dead…” (We should put God first. No matter how occupied or high our position is, put God first…whenever we encounter difficulties and depression, have faith in God. Faith without action is dead).
SOLIDARITYSERYE
The LVF’s SolidaritySerye remains to be close and connected to the people in the community. The children who received the bread and other goods thanked the staff with a warm smile and a thank-you. LVF benefactors’ assistance has made this endeavor possible. We continue to pray to the Lord to grant them health and answer their prayers.
PASWI-COP
The Philippine Association of Social Workers Inc. (PASWI) has become the Wednesday habit of prayer with social workers in the Philippines. In this virtual prayer, social workers from several chapters expressed how their faith enabled them to handle the pressures of their jobs. Indeed, when you have faith, you can do many things in the glory of God! This Wednesday’s prayer is led by PASWI Exec. Dir. Mrs. Eva Ponce de Leon and Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA.
Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. 