FEB-MAZING FEBRUARY 2024

Is it a Feb-mazing month?! February is the second month of the year and this year, we have a leap day! The leap day balances our calendars with the earth’s orbit, preventing seasons from drifting out of place and ensuring equinoxes, solstices, and all the annual events follow their schedule. At LVF, this means leaping into life’s new chapter, especially during the Family Day celebration where family bond and relations is renewed and strengthened; the successful examination of the Scholars which would determine their moving on to their next year’s level; the recollection and retreat of the graduating LVF TVET trainees in Cubao; the spot monitoring by the DSWD on LVF’s programs and activities; and the visit of Sr. Teresita Padron, FMA to Palawan and in Malihao!

These monthly achievements keep us grounded, and steady and it fuels our desire to do more and to reach children, young people, and families! These keep us going. 

LVF CUBAO-QC
ANGELICAN’S ONSITE EXAMINATION!
YOUTH TOWNHALL: DIALOGUE WITH UN ASSISTANT SECRETARY-GENERAL
FELIPE PAULLIER

LVF JOIN THE CSAAW DIALOGUE FORUM
LVF JOIN THE KINSHIP CARE FORUM
LVF TVET TRAINEES’ RETREAT-RECOLLECTION
WAY OF THE CROSS

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN
LVF MACARASCAS CRISIS RESPONSE
TRAINING INDUCTION PROGRAM
LVF GRATITUDE DAY: THE SALESIAN WAY!
DATE WITH THE LORD
ANNUAL EVALUATION
FINANCIAL LITERACY

DSWD SPOT MONITORING OF LVF PROGRAMS & SERVICES:
CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

LVF MALIHAO VICTORIAS, NEG. OCC.
INTRODUCTION TO JOB PREPARATION FOR CAREER COUNSELORS’ WEBINAR
SCHOOL PROMOTION
VISIT OF THE MOTHER PROVINCIAL, SR. TERESITA PADRON, FMA TO LVF-MALIHAO
A MEANINGFUL ENCOUNTER OF FACULTY, STAFF AND SUPPORT PERSONNEL
ENCOUNTER OF LVF MALIHAO STUDENTS OF SY 2023-2024 AND
THE SALESIAN COOPERATORS

YOUTH ENCOUNTER 2024
ELECTION OF BOY AND GIRL OFFICIALS
ASH WEDNESDAY MASS

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
 LVF ONSITE CATECHESIS
 LVF SOLIDARITYSERYE
 PASWI-COP

LVF FAMILY DAY: STRONGER TOGETHER 

Feb. 25. Every year, Mr. Precious and Mrs. Alice Andam, a US-based couple and LVF’s good friends and donor, sponsor a Family Dayꟷ for the LVF girls’ families to gather together. As the girls’ family members come one by one, the girls are on cloud nine and are teary-eyed when each starts going home. Mrs. Alice reminded the girls in her speech how important it is to “… set your goals high” Additionally, Mr. Precious stressed that “life has a lot of distraction. No matter what, finish your schooling It will lead you to success.” It’s crucial to focus on your life goals.

ANGELICAN’S ONSITE EXAMINATION 

Feb. 10. Under the UST Angelicum REAP (Re-entry Education Agenda for the Poor), the LVF girls who are its scholars, diligently studied their different modules! Dressed in their uniforms, the scholars eagerly took their examinations. Even though a few of them struggled to complete their test papers, their faces were filled with radiant smiles when they finally were able to pass the exams.

YOUTH TOWNHALL:
DIALOGUE WITH UN ASSISTANT SECRETARY-GENERAL FELIPE PAULLIER 

Feb. 14. The Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. Social Workers, Ms. Angie Mae Villaren and Ms. Ma. Patricia Soqueña, joined the Youth Townhall: Dialogue with UN Assistant Secretary-General Felipe Paullier! The town hall is full of young people, including student leaders, barangay SK officials, organization volunteers, NGOs, and young and adult professionals who gathered at Lyceum of the Philippines, Intramuros, Manila. Mr. Paullier talked about the difficulties faced by young Filipinos and their potential for change, as well as their ability to create diverse venues across the nation. The dialogue was divided into three sections: Plan of Action, Youth Participation, and Challenges.
 
Everyone in the room had an opportunity to share about their struggles and current circumstances as young people dealing with the two most prevalent problems in today’s world: mental health problems and poverty. This conversation is about more than just airing grievances; it’s a conversation that will be taken to higher authorities to find a solution and close the gaps in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
 
While “others were dating with their special someone, my heart was full because I learned a lot during the discussion,” Ms. Angie said. Ms. Ma. Patricia rejoined, “We are so blest as it is a rare opportunity to dialogue with the UN Assistant Secretary-General”

LVF JOINS THE CSAAW DIALOGUE FORUM 

Feb. 14. LVF through Ms. Ma. Patricia Soquena, RSW joined the Forum on Creating a Community of Hope (Help and Opportunity to Protect and Emancipate) for OSAEC and CSAEM via Zoom in commemoration of the National Awareness Week for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Exploitation (CSAAW). In addition to creating a community of hope, the dialogue forum sought to increase public awareness of child sexual abuse and exploitation, spur community action against it, and provide “opportunities to protect children from online sexual abuse and exploitation of children and also transitional of this and exploitation materials.” The event also discussed forms of sexual gender-based violence that occur both offline and online.
 
“I’ve learned from this session that every action matters and that we should be conscious of what’s going on in the world, especially concerning our children who may have and are vulnerable to experience sexual abuse or exploitation,” Ms. Soquena said at the end of the forum. “Every child is a gift from God. We must protect them”

LVF JOINS THE KINSHIP CARE FORUM

Feb. 15. LVF joined the Kinship Care Forum: Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Survivors of Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children in commemoration of the 28th Child Sexual Abuse Awareness Week (CSAAW) organized by the Center for the Prevention & Treatment of Child Sexual Abuse (CPTCSA) in collaboration with Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), KNH Philippines, Go-Just, Mission Alliance ACTVE, and Family for Every Child Global Alliance. Kinship care is under Republic Act 11642, also known as the Domestic Administrative Adoption and Alternative Childcare Act, Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) Undersecretary Mr. Angelo Tapales said “Something that we haven’t talked about in great detail is that kinship care, also known as relative foster care, which is defined as full-time care provided by family members within the fourth degree of consanguinity for a child.”
 
According to a 2020 online child protection study conducted by End Child Prostitution and Trafficking, 40% of the kid respondents used social media to communicate with strangers. About 30% of people reported receiving sexual materials via social media, and 50% of people who might have been the victim of sexual assault did not disclose any incidents.
 
The best interests of the children are kept in mind during the brainstorming and discussion sessions. “After attending this forum, we learned a lot and realized that children are among the most vulnerable members of society because they rely so heavily on adults and the government.” Therefore, we must collaborate to safeguard and empower children and fulfill LVF’s Child Protection Clinic tagline, “Building a Culture of Protection for Children and the Young”, Ms. Soqueña shared.

LVF TVET TRAINEES’ RETREAT-RECOLLECTION 

Feb. 24.  The LVF TVET Trainees had their retreat recollection led by Mr. Stephen Borja, brother of Sr. Runita ‘Bing’ Borja, General Councilor for Youth Ministry! Mr. Borja showed them the television series “The Chosen,” which tells the story of Jesus’ life and the calling of his earliest apostles. The trainees connected with the film because they believed that they were also called according to Isaiah 43:1: “Huwag kang matakot dahil niligtas kita, Tinawag kita sa pangalan mo. Akin ka” (Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.) Furthermore, Mr. Borja articulated Pope Francis’ message of rejoicing in hope.
 
This retreat recollection is customarily done before the TVET graduation. Since this is the batch during the Pandemic the Sisters would like to build strong bonds among the trainees and the LVF educating community.

WAY OF THE CROSS

Along with the church, the Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. observes the Way of the Cross, a customary devotion honoring the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. The stations are commonly used as a mini pilgrimage as we move from one station to another. There are 14 prayer stations, each representing a different point in his journey to Calvary. It is a Friday afternoon ritual until Good Friday.

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

LVF MACARASCAS CRISIS RESPONSE
Feb. 7. The two barangays in Puerto Princesa City, including Barangay Bagong Silang, experienced a devastating fire, shocking the city! Under these urgent circumstances, LVF Macarascas Palawan responds quickly! Along with additional in-kind donations such as rice, kitchen utensils, shoes, and other necessities for survival, two boxes s of garments were also given. In this period when the majority of people were shocked and still processing the disaster, the family genuinely expressed their gratitude to the Sisters and staff for their assistance in their recovery.

TRAINING INDUCTION PROGRAM

The Training Induction Program (TIP) for Organic Agriculture Production NCII was initiated by the Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. in Macarascas, Palawan, as part of the Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP). It began on February 26, 2024, and will end on April 8. Our 25 trainees received scholarship monies from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), which made this feasible. Our sincere appreciation goes out to TESDA Palawan for selecting our facility to assist our community, particularly the farmers, and to the Puerto Princesa municipal administration for providing food for our trainees.

LVF GRATITUDE DAY: THE SALESIAN WAY

Feb. 18. The Laura Vicuña Foundation – Macarascas, Palawan welcomed with great festivities, the annual visitation of Sr. Teresita Padron, FMA, who was accompanied by some of her Provincial Councilors! The children displayed their musical and dance skills, but what stood out was the prayer they offered for Sr. Tita who is Mary’s representative. Sr. Tita spent five (5) days in the center, during which she interacted with members of the educating community such as the FMA sisters, learners, staff, volunteers, scholars, and parents. These interactions were incredibly inspiring and motivating. We sincerely appreciate your love, compassion, and presence, Sr. Tita.

DATE WITH THE LORD

Feb. 14. The residents of Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. in Macarascas, Palawan observed Valentine’s Day in a Salesian manner known as “Date with the Lord”! Sr. Rose and Salesian Youth Movement (SYM) leaders led the session, with the Lord in the center. Coming together as a group with the FMA sisters, students, and staff is a highly beneficial activity for developing strong interpersonal bonds, reflecting, and sharing the Word of God highlighting the Almighty God’s incredible love for the young.

ANNUAL EVALUATION

Feb. 24. The annual evaluation of the resident learners of Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Macarascas, Palawan was supervised by Ms. Delia Valledor, RSW. The yearly exercise acted as a guide for improving the program and services that will be executed in the next year, as well as an assessment of how well the program was implemented the year before.

FINANCIAL LITERACY

Feb. 23 – 24. The community of the Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc.-Macarascas, Palawan expressed gratitude to German Sparkassenstiftung International Cooperation (DSIK)- the development-policy arm of the Sparkassen Finance Group whose task is to disseminate the successful Sparkasse model across regional borders and around the globe. They are active in facilitating the Financial Literacy and Intro Entrepreneurship, for the youth coming from different Barangays including the selected resident learners of the center. Financial literacy, according to Forbes, will equip individuals with the knowledge to make informed decisions, leading to greater monetary stability, less, stress, and a higher quality of life. On Feb 24, they conducted the training about Farmer Business Simulation for the farmers including the parents of our learner. Firstly, it brings forth a correct framework for considering the appropriateness of providing aid and secondly, it helps cut away the alleged differences from other businesses as well.

DSWD SPOT MONITORING OF LVF PROGRAMS & SERVICES:

CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
Feb. 08. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), represented by Ms. Marlene Beringuel, RSW, and three companion social workers, conducted a spot monitoring of the Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. programs and activities! This is to provide technical assistance in preparation for accreditation of its programs and services. Ms. Beringuel commended LVF for the good work it does for the children and youth served at their center and communities.

MACARASCAS, PALAWAN
Feb. 20. A pre-assessment of the Laura Vicuña Center – Palawan’s center-based (residential care) facility was carried out by Ms. Erick John C. De Vera and Ms. Irene P. Jaballas from the Standard Section of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Palawan. The visit’s goal is to verify the program’s implementation’s efficacy, safety, sustainability, and currentness.

LVF MALIHAO VICTORIAS, NEG. OCC.
INTRODUCTION TO JOB PREPARATION FOR CAREER COUNSELORS’ WEBINAR

Feb.14. Ms. Ailene M. Ondon, Ms. Ma. Victoria V. Seluce, Ms. Ma. Socorro C. Bayles, and Ms. Ma. Aika F. Tacud had the honor of participating in the webinar hosted by BagoSphere and the International Labor Organization with the topic “Introduction to Job Preparation for Career Counselors.” The attendees developed a greater awareness of the best practices in job preparation through lively conversations and interactive presentations. 

SCHOOL PROMOTION

Feb.16. Sr. Therese Yvonne. L. Jance, FMA, Ms. Ma. Socorro C. Bayles, and Ms. Ma. Aika F. Tacud started a school promotion and recruitment campaign at Barangay Estado National High School. The goal of the school campaign was to encourage new senior high schools to enroll at LVWDTC for the 2024–2025 academic year. With the enthusiasm and dedication of Sr. Yvonne, Ms. Cor, and Ms. Aika, presented the school’s mission, vision, accomplishments, educational programs, and extracurricular activities.

Feb. 22. With passion and dedication, Sir Rino N. Barrido, Ms. Ma. Aika F. Tacud, Ms. Ma. Victoria V. Seluce, and Ms. Maybelle L. Capillanes organized a school promotion at Victorias City Farm School, formerly Victorias National High School Alfonso Sta.  Ana Extension, to increase enrollees. They were able to raise awareness about the educational opportunities offered by their school, Laura Vicuña Foundation – Malihao.

VISIT OF THE MOTHER PROVINCIAL, SR. TERESITA PADRON, FMA TO LVF-MALIHAO

Feb. 26. The LVF – Malihao was privileged to welcome Mother Provincial, Sr. Tita Padron, FMA as their distinguished guest! Upon her arrival, she was warmly welcomed by the FMA sisters, students, teachers, and staff members. The elegant moves and soothing sounds of the school’s handpicked group of gifted dancers also welcomed her. The entire school community was delighted and inspired by her visit, which was an annual event.

A MEANINGFUL ENCOUNTER OF FACULTY, STAFF AND SUPPORT PERSONNEL

Feb. 27. At the school’s AVR, a much-awaited encounter occurred as Sr. Tita, together with the committed teachers, staff, and support staff, convened! During the dialogue, Sr. Tita encouraged an open dialogue, inviting the attendees to share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Through her compassionate presence, she created a safe space for everyone where they could express their thoughts and concerns without worrying. Moreover, Sr. Tita left 10 words that everyone must remember: healthy air, attention, listening, humility, patience, courage, a sense of honesty, sharing, solidarity, and collaboration. Also, she reminded everyone that they are part of a larger mission to shape future generations. As a gratitude, the faculty, staff, and support personnel gave her a card and a token of appreciation.

ENCOUNTER OF LVF MALIHAO STUDENTS OF SY 2023-2024 AND THE SALESIAN COOPERATORS

Feb. 28. The students in the school year 2023-2024 had the privilege to meet and encounter Sr. Tita, FMA at the school’s multi-purpose hall. The students had the opportunity to engage with Sr. Tita, ask questions, share their experiences, and seek guidance. The kids felt heard and appreciated in the company of such an extraordinary person, making it a very enlightening experience. Throughout the encounter, Sr. Tita emphasized to the students the promise of Don Bosco to the children which they must remember, “Bread, Heaven, and Work.” The students expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Sr. Tita by giving her a card and a token.  In the afternoon, Sr. Tita had a memorable meeting with the Salesian Cooperators at the school AVR. Sr. Tita’s guidance and wisdom provided valuable insights that will guide their future endeavors. After their visit, they were more committed than ever to their mission of helping young people and spreading the Salesian charism.

YOUTH ENCOUNTER 2024

Feb. 01-03. The Youth Encounter, organized by Sr. Nancy Esmero, FMA, in collaboration with the Faculty and Staff and the former teachers Ms. Jonalyn Ayola and Ms. Ma. J Nizol, was an exciting and transformative event for the TVET students.  Over the three days, the attendees were given the chance to express who they were, open up about their experiences, welcome fresh viewpoints, learn valuable life lessons, and build deep relationships with God and other people. Additionally, they had the opportunity to participate in a range of activities designed to foster introspection and personal development. The participants expressed their gratitude to those who made the program possible by giving cards to the cook, the FMA Sisters, and the facilitators, especially to Sr. Nancy, who traveled and invested her time and energy just to facilitate the youth encounter. The occasion was a huge success and had a long-lasting effect on the attendees.

ELECTION OF BOY AND GIRL OFFICIALS

Feb. 19. Alongside LVF Malihao Co-Curricular In-charge Sir Darrenz M. Caberoy, the seven student-leader representatives of LVF Malihao—Shavanne Baquiriza, Clyde Cj Caparas, Ricky Velasco, Angela Lascano, Ria May Ramores, Venus Alquizar, and Elmae Berina—attended the Victorias Aquatic Center Election of Boy and Girl Officials in honor of the Boys and Girls Week Celebration 2024. The said activity was organized by the Rotary Club of Victorias under the DepEd Memorandum of the Division of Victorias City in partnership with the city government. As part of their practical training, the activity intends to enable student leaders to assume the roles of the designated Government Officials/Department Heads, enabling them to learn and experience what public service and local governance are all about.

Ash Wednesday Mass

Feb. 14. The Lenten season began on Ash Wednesday, which was observed by the LVF Malihao community. Fr. presided over the mass. The mass was presided over by Fr. Vilbar, SDB, who gave a moving sermon that served as a reminder of the day’s gravity and shared values for all attendees, including the FMA sisters, academics, staff, and support staff. As Fr. Vilbar, SDB marked their foreheads with ashes, they were reminded of their mortality and the need for repentance. It was a day of unity and spiritual growth for the school community.

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

LVF ONSITE CATECHESIS
LVF Sisters, Sr. Phebe and Sr. Sarah, FMA simultaneously facilitated the onsite catechesis to the CPC Communities: Taguig; Marikina; Cavite; Culiat; Botocan, Hillcrest, Judge Jiminez; Pinagkaisahan. This in-person interaction is another blessing. The kids are eager to arrive early so they can attend the Sisters’ spiritual formation. Being near and among the community members does make a difference.

LVF SOLIDARITYSERYE

The LVF SolidaritySerye keeps bringing joy to the youth in our CPC communities. They appear joyful and are eager for the Sisters and lay mission partners to return to their area. They cannot wait to join the games and are eager to receive their prizes! Foodpacks, breads, school supplies, hygiene kits, shoes, and clothes were distributed to the communities after the sessions.

PASWI-COP

The Philippine Association for Social Workers, Inc.’s (PASWI) Circle of Prayer (COP) every Wednesday Night celebrated its 3^rd Anniversary! For three years, it has reached out to Social Workers all over the Philippines, and bravely shared on the Word of God through their stories of how they were able to rise above their difficulties, turmoils, and temptations in life! There is a testimony of true, genuine, and living faith!  The weekly Wednesdate is hosted by PASWI National Director, Sr. Marivic, FMA and PASWI Executive Director, Ms Eva Ponce De Leon. A Local PASWI Chapter co-host the night, choosing the Word of God. Mabuhay ang mga Manggagawang Panlipunan! (Long Live the Social Workers).