A JULY TO REMEMBER: MOVING WITH PURPOSE

The month of July is a season of growing, abundance, and personal enlightenment. The month where we reap what we sow and replant a bud of seeds to grow. A series of conducting LVF #iamBRAVE resulted in its presentation to the international stage as Sr. Marivic presented the Movement during the 16th Eurasia Forum of Social Workers convened from 2-4 July 2025 at Yeungman University in Daegu, Republic of Korea! 

We celebrate the fruits of LVF Macarascas Palawan’s hard work as they successfully renewed their license as a Learning Site for Agriculture! We are grateful for the continuous learning opportunities among the LVF staff, which contribute to the Foundation’s betterment through their participation in various training and seminars. As we commemorate the Trafficking in Persons, LVF Cubao conducted an advocacy session to fight against this grave human rights violation. The LVF-QC bids farewell to Ambassador Ilan Fluss, Israel’s Ambassador to the Philippines, as he concludes his term.  

At LVF, we are blessed to have accomplished a great deal this month of July. We are particularly excited about the #iamBRAVE National Forum in September 2025.
—
LVF #iamBRAVE: FROM THE PHILIPPINE ARCHIPELAGO TO THE INTERNATIONAL STAGE!

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN
LVF RECEIVED THE CERTIFICATE OF RENEWAL FOR LEARNING SITE FOR AGRICULTURE1 
LVF-PALAWAN SOCIAL WORKER ATTENDS ONLINE ORIENTATION ON DSWD GUIDELINES FOR 
ADOPTION AND ALTERNATIVE CHILD CARE
JAPANESE BENEFACTORS VISIT LVF-PALAWAN
LVF-PALAWAN OUTREACH AT KAYASAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
VIDES VOLUNTEERS FROM SPAIN ARRIVE AT LVF-PALAWAN!
LVF MALIHAO, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL
TEAM BUILDING
PURPLE OVEN CAREER TALK
VISITATION OF ST. MARY MAZZARELLO SCHOOL BATCH ‘78
SYM KICK-OFF
ENTREPRENEURSHIP SEMINAR 2025
SCHOOL’S DEPUTY INFORMATION OFFICER- CAPACITY BUILDING SESSION I
REGISTRARS’ WORKSHOP
OBSERVATION ON HOW TO OPERATE AN AUTOMATIC HEAVY-DUTY WASHING MACHINE
SSLG GRAND RALLY

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
COMMEMORATION OF THE WORLD DAY AGAINST TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS
LVF BIDS FAREWELL TO AMB. ILAN & WIFE GILA
LVF EC COMMUNITY: PILGRIMS OF HOPE
LVF BALIK-ESKWELA INITIATIVE
LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
LVF SOLIDARITYSERYE 
SUNDAY CATECHESIS
PASWI COP

LVF #iamBRAVE: FROM THE PHILIPPINE ARCHIPELAGO TO THE INTERNATIONAL STAGE

Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA, LVF Managing Director and National President of the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI), presented the LVF #iamBRAVE Movement (Buddies Reject Abuse, Violence and Exploitation) with the title: BRAVE Movement: Fostering a Culture of Protection, Respect and Compassion: A Shared Responsibility during the 16th Eurasia Forum of Social Workers convened from 2–4 July 2025 at Yeungnam University in Daegu, Republic of Korea, under the timely and compelling theme: “Building Bridges for Intergenerational Cooperation: Social Welfare in the Context of Population Change.”

In a world where all forms and kinds of abuse are prominent, we are compelled to respond to the question: How much braveness and courage do we have that we can potentially tap into to push us to do something more. The young people have an essential part in creating a safer, kinder, more inclusive, and compassionate world for their peers. They all have the right to a safe living environment free of abuse and exploitation. “As social work professionals and agents of social change, we assert that children and young people have the same human rights as adults; however, due to their unique developmental needs, they have specific child rights and are therefore subjects of their rights,” Sr. Marivic reiterated.

The #iamBRAVE Movement was created in recognition of its belief in the strength within the hearts of young people. Its goal is to rediscover, revisit, and relive Filipino cultural values such as (pakikipagkapwa-tao) sense of humanity and shared identity; (damayan) sympathy and compassion; (pagtutulungan) helping one another; (pagkakaisa) unity and solidarity; (kagandahang-loob) generosity and goodness of heart. Its objectives are (1) to counter the culture of individualism, materialism, hedonism, and abuse of power and authority; (2) to capacitate all (persons) especially young people to be active partners in the prevention of abuse and in assisting and empowering their friends, peers, buddies to be collaborators in protecting each other from existing and new forms of abuse online and offline; and (3) encourages all, especially young people to stand up for themselves, be courageous enough to address issues of abuse and exploitation and (4) lastly, to create a ripple effect of bravery that inspires others to do the same as well as serve as a platform to unite voices nationwide. 

The nationwide movement began in November 2024, with 2,000 young people from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao taking part. The immediate response to this launch was positive and raised everyone’s heart to work together to forge a new road of compassion and a way ahead to end all forms of violence, protect children, and recognize their dignity as humans created in God’s image and likeness.

The national movement has caused a ripple effect. It moved from Negros to NCR, then to Pampanga, where more than 300 students actively participated. In South Cotabato, Mindanao, LVF 1 achieved a historic first, reaching 400 students in partnership with PASWI South Cotabato! Indeed, the #iamBRAVE Movement is courage fueled by hope! Diwa’s LVF short advocacy clip was also played, along with video documentation of the movement’s launch in Negros, which provided a rich glimpse into the Foundation’s work. The crowd commended this with applause. Several audience members appreciated the work that the Foundation has done in child protection.

Some said that Sr. Marivic is an icon, a nun who is in the field championing child rights and protection! Sr. Marivic encouraged the crowd to join the movement, for it is not a solitary pursuit but a shared responsibility. Bravery often flourishes when nurtured by a strong community. “…those who are willing to take a stand-this is your movement too! … This is a call to action! We refuse to let abuse, violence, and exploitation continue. We refuse to let children suffer in silence. This is the time to stand together. This is the time to fight for justice. This is the time to act. Together, we stand with survivors, fight for justice, and work towards a future where every child is safe, protected, and free from harm!”

Sr. Marivic was elected as the PASWI National Vice President in 2024 and was reelected as the National President last January 2025! PASWI has 109 local chapters with 23,742 members. As the National President, she led the Philippine delegation to the Eurasia Forum. She oversaw the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between PASWI and the countries of Belarus, Korea, and Hong Kong.

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

LVF RECEIVED THE CERTIFICATE OF RENEWAL FOR LEARNING SITE FOR AGRICULTURE 1
July 31. The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) turned over the Certificate of Learning Site for Agriculture 1 to Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. following the Foundation’s application for renewal. The visit signifies ATI’s continued partnership and recognition of the Foundation’s contribution to agricultural education and sustainable practices. Personnel from the foundation’s farm department were present to receive the certificate and expressed their appreciation for ATI’s support. The renewed certification reinforces the foundation’s commitment to promoting agricultural learning and community empowerment through hands-on training and demonstration initiatives.

STAFF JOINS THE 10-HOUR BASIC OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH TRAINING

July 2–3. Two staff members of the Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Palawan successfully participated in the 10-hour Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training conducted by the Occupational Safety and Health Center- MIMAROPA. The training provided essential knowledge on workplace safety, risk management, and emergency preparedness. The staff gained valuable learning and practical insights that can be applied in organizing and managing future events and activities of the Foundation. This initiative highlights LVF-Palawan’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment for its staff and beneficiaries.

LVF-PALAWAN SOCIAL WORKER ATTENDS ONLINE ORIENTATION ON DSWD GUIDELINES FOR ADOPTION AND ALTERNATIVE CHILD CARE

July 10–11. The Social Worker of the Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Palawan participated in the online orientation on DSWD Memorandum Circular No. 7, Series of 2025. The circular outlines the Guidelines on the Implementation of Adoption and Alternative Child Care Programs for Child-Caring Social Welfare Agencies (SWAs). The orientation provided updated information and practical guidance on the implementation of the new policies. The Social Worker gained new knowledge and insights that will help strengthen the Foundation’s compliance and improve services for children in need of care and placement.

JAPANESE BENEFACTORS VISIT LVF-PALAWAN

July 21. The Japanese benefactors Keiko and Fumio Kawamura, together with Hiroko Hayashi, visited the Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Palawan. The community warmly welcomed their arrival through a series of meaningful activities. As part of the visit, the benefactors engaged in cooking activities alongside the learners and volunteers, fostering a spirit of cultural exchange and unity. The community expressed their appreciation through various performances, including dancing and singing. The occasion also served as a heartfelt moment for the community to extend its profound gratitude to the benefactors for their continued generosity and unwavering support to the LVF-Palawan community.

LVF-PALAWAN OUTREACH AT KAYASAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

July 22. The Sisters and staff of Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Palawan, along with their Japanese benefactors, visited Kayasan Elementary School to conduct an outreach activity for the students, parents, and teachers in the area.  During the visit, the team distributed clothing, school supplies, and food packs to support the educational and basic needs of the community. The outreach aimed to promote compassion and solidarity, especially for children and families in underserved areas. This meaningful initiative reflected the Foundation’s continuing mission to uplift lives through education, service, and partnership with generous supporters from around the world.

MADRE SELVA VOLUNTEERS FROM SPAIN ARRIVE AT LVF-PALAWAN

July 30. MADRE SELVA volunteers from Spain through VIDES arrived at the Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc., Palawan, to begin their one-month volunteer service at the center. The entire community warmly welcomed the volunteers and expressed great excitement and anticipation for the meaningful experiences and shared learning that lay ahead. Their presence marks another opportunity for cultural exchange, collaboration, and deepened commitment to the mission of service for the children and youth.

LVF MALIHAO, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

TEAM BUILDING
July 07. The entire community of Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc., came together for a vibrant and meaningful Team Building Activity held at Gracia Resort in Manapla. The presence of the FMA Sisters graced the event: Sr. Naida R. Alcaraz, FMA, Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, Sr. Josefina, FMA, and Sr. Therese Yvonne L. Jance, FMA, alongside the faculty, staff, and support personnel of the Foundation. The activity was designed to foster camaraderie, collaboration, and sportsmanship among all participants. A variety of games and interactive challenges brought joy, laughter, and enthusiastic participation, strengthening the bonds within the community. The day was a celebration of unity, shared values, and the continued commitment of the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. to nurturing both personal and professional growth among its members.

PURPLE OVEN CAREER TALK

July 11 & 12. Purple Oven conducted a two-day Career Talk specifically designed for students enrolled in Technical-Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs. Purple Oven is a bakery and patisserie that offers artisanal pastries, cakes, and desserts in Metro Manila. The event was facilitated by Ms. Katrina C. Sy and Ms. Haidee Pene-Ramos, who shared their professional insights and experiences. The primary objective of the Career Talk was to help prepare the TVET students for future employment by providing them with relevant knowledge, practical advice, and guidance on workplace expectations and career readiness.

VISITATION OF ST. MARY MAZZARELLO SCHOOL BATCH ‘78

July 16. SMMS Batch 1978, led by Batch Chairperson Mrs. Christina Legaspi Campos, visited the Laura Vicuña Women Development and Training Center in Malihao as part of their meaningful reunion activities. This visit served as a heartfelt way to reconnect with their roots and honor their identity as members of the Salesian Family. Through their presence, generosity, and continued support, they demonstrated that the Salesian spirit remains alive, guiding their commitment to service and community even decades after graduation.

SYM KICK-OFF

July 17. The School Gymnasium came alive with energy and excitement as the Salesian Youth Movement (SYM) Kick-Off officially began. The event was graced by the presence of Sr. Naida R. Alcaraz, FMA, and Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, whose support added warmth and inspiration to the occasion. Various school clubs showcased their talents, ranging from dynamic dance performances to heartfelt vocal presentations, creating an atmosphere of celebration and unity. To further enrich the experience, the SYM animators organized interactive activities aimed at strengthening students’ communication skills, sportsmanship, and camaraderie. These activities encouraged collaboration, friendship, and active participation, reflecting the core values of the Salesian spirit. The day was filled with joy, laughter, and meaningful connections, leaving everyone with cherished memories and a renewed sense of belonging within the Salesian community. 

ENTREPRENEURSHIP SEMINAR 2025

July 22 & 24. The Grade 12 students attended a two-day Entrepreneurship Seminar held at Laura Hall. The seminar, facilitated by faculty and staff, focused on guiding students on how to become entrepreneurs. A variety of topics were discussed, and interactive activities were conducted to enhance student engagement and learning throughout the event. Overall, the seminar proved to be an enriching experience, equipping students with valuable insights, practical skills, and inspiration to pursue their entrepreneurial journeys in the future.

SCHOOL’S DEPUTY INFORMATION OFFICER- CAPACITY BUILDING SESSION1

July 22. The Office of Victorias City Information launched its first-ever School’s Deputy Information Officer Workshop at the Victorias Aquatic Pavilion. The workshop was attended by Arian D. Baralla, a Grade 12 student, along with Miss Flora Mie M. Ellena. The event aimed to strengthen and enhance students’ skills in writing various types of news within the school setting. It featured informative lectures and interactive activities, which the participating students found both engaging and educational. Overall, the workshop was a valuable learning experience that empowered students to become more confident and effective campus journalists, marking a promising step toward youth involvement in responsible information sharing.

REGISTRARS’ WORKSHOP

July 24-26. The staff at the Registrar’s Office took part in a three-day workshop led by Ms. Banji L. Dalit, with Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, in attendance. The training taught them how to organize and file documents properly, use Excel more efficiently with useful formulas and shortcuts, and build and manage grading sheets while consolidating student grades. By the end of the workshop, attendees had gained essential skills to improve data accuracy and speed up office work. With these new abilities, the Registrar’s Office is ready to work more efficiently and continue enhancing its services.

OBSERVATION ON HOW TO OPERATE AN AUTOMATIC HEAVY-DUTY WASHING MACHINE

July 25. Fifteen (15) students enrolled in BSRS Housekeeping NC II, together with their instructor, Ms. Ma. Socorro C. Bayles, visited MINSU Fresh & Fold Laundry located in Canetown Subdivision, Victorias City to observe how to operate an automatic heavy-duty washing machine. This activity allowed the trainees to watch the whole process in action and understand proper procedures for using such equipment. By the end of the visit, the group had gained practical insights that will support their hands-on training and help them develop confidence when working with professional laundry machinery.

SSLG GRAND RALLY

July 31. The Supreme Student Leadership Government (SSLG) aspirants held their grand rally in preparation for the upcoming SSLG Elections for School Year 2025–2026. The event took place at the school gymnasium, where students gathered to witness the candidates present their platforms and advocacies. Each aspirant took the opportunity to introduce themselves and share their vision for the student body. They highlighted various programs and initiatives aimed at improving school life, promoting student welfare, and encouraging active student participation. The rally marked a vital step in the democratic process within the school community, empowering students to make informed choices for their future leaders.

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

COMMEMORATION OF THE WORLD DAY AGAINST TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS
July 31. LVF joins the observance of the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons with the theme: Iisang Nasyon, Iisang Aksyon; Tapusin Ang Trafficking Ngayon! (As One Nation, We Can End Trafficking Now!) A community awareness session was held at Culiat, conducted by LVF social workers Ms. Josielyn Hugo and Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo. Interactive discussions helped the community understand how to identify, prevent, and respond to trafficking situations. Trafficking in persons is a profound violation of human rights and a direct assault on human dignity. It is a form of modern-day slavery that reduces human beings to commodities to be bought, sold, and exploited for profit. This initiative reflects LVF’s commitment to empowering communities in the fight against human trafficking. LVF strongly advocates for the protection and empowerment of young people, families, and communities as a whole.

LVF BIDS FAREWELL TO AMB. ILAN & WIFE GILA

July 17. Amb. Ilan Fluss, Israel’s Ambassador to the Philippines, and his wife, Madam Gila, have occupied a special place in the hearts of LVF and of the girls, mainly. In 2022, the International Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ICCP) was led by Amb. Ilan turned over their donation to LVF, and it was the beginning of a new friendship. However, Amb. Ilan’s term has come to an end. Last July 17, the Embassy of Israel invited LVF to a basketball clinic held in Pasig City in partnership with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas – SBP, joined by the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s team and Coach Larry Fonacier. This was also part of the farewell of Ambassador Ilan Fluss from the Philippines and a continued effort to support female youth through sports. The clinic was more than drills and practice. It offered them a safe space to learn, grow, and feel seen. Through basketball, they built confidence, teamwork, and hope. “Sports help build strength in body and mind. Empowering youth, especially girl victims, through activities like these will give them more confidence, empowerment, and tools for a better future,” said Ambassador Ilan. The clinic was a meaningful initiative by the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines, showing how sport can heal, connect communities, and support the empowerment of girls and women.  (lifted from the Embassy of Israel fb post) 

LVF EC COMMUNITY: PILGRIMS OF HOPE

July 07. The LVF girls, along with Sr. Phebe, Ms Jessa Mae Nardo, and Ms. Samantha Lavado, went on a pilgrimage — a day filled with faith, quiet reflection, and heartfelt prayers. Thank you, Lord, for Your provision of strength, guidance, and for Your comforting presence in our lives.  The late Pope Francis opened the year 2025 as the Jubilee Year with the theme “Pilgrims of Hope”.  Hence, the girl’s pilgrimage becomes doubly meaningful. Thousands of young people all over the world are on pilgrimage. With each step of their daily pilgrimage, believers trustingly rely on the source of Life. The prophet Isaiah repeatedly sees the family of men and women, sons and daughters, returning from their scattered ways, gathered in the light of God’s Word: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light” (Is 9:2). The light is that of the Son who became Man, Jesus, who by His own Word gathers every people and nation. It is the living flame of Jesus that stirs the step: “Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you” (Is 60:1).

LVF BALIK-ESKWELA INITIATIVE

July 06. Going back to school is a mix of excitement and nervousness, as you meet new friends, classmates, teachers, and adjust to a new school, even if you’re a transfer student. To some, school opening means a new bag, new shoes, and new notebooks. At LVF, we are blessed to have the opportunity to distribute 500 new school supplies (intermediate pad, ballpen, notebooks, colored pencils, and plastic envelopes) to the students of LVF Child Protection Clinic in Marikina, Culiat, Hillcrest, Pinagkaisahan, Cavite, and Taguig. God is indeed good for gifting us our generous benefactors — Atty. Shery Gonzalvo, Maxi Ramos, Cooky Say, and Auvie Ballori for making this initiative possible! Sr. Phebe Lacse, LVF Animator, Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo, Social Worker, and Ms. Michelle, PASWI Volunteer to LVF, led the distribution of school.

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

LVF SOLIDARITYSERYE
On 15 July 2025, 2:00 PM, a Low Pressure Area (LPA 07f) was monitored inside the Philippine Area of Responsibility. On the 16^th, it developed into Tropical Depression “CRISING”. This has triggered flooding in Metro Manila, causing families to vacate their homes and temporarily stay at the evacuation centers. Hundreds of families were displaced.  In these cold and difficult times, LVF moved! The community prepared 500 hot packs of soup and bread for evacuation centers.

 SUNDAY CATECHESIS

After last Sunday’s postponed catechetical gathering due to the inclement weather and the rising river waters adjacent to their homes, the children and mothers of Barangay Pinagkaisahan and Hillcrest joyfully reunited this Sunday for a heartwarming session of prayer, learning, and fellowship. The catechesis imparted by Sr. Sarah Robas focused on the Sunday Gospel, which emphasized the importance of the Our Father—a prayer of trust and humility. This message deeply resonated with the participants, especially after their recent experience of fear and uncertainty when some families had to evacuate due to the flooding. Through shared reflection, they were reminded of God’s closeness and faithfulness, especially in times of trial. The session was made even more meaningful through songs, storytelling, and sincere but straightforward interactions. At the end, everyone enjoyed a taste of generosity—delicious donated bread and chocolate drinks that brought smiles to young and old alike. We give thanks for the safe return of our families and for the grace of being able to gather again in faith and joy. Indeed, even after the storm, God’s love continues to bring warmth and hope to our community. 

PASWI COP

The Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI) continues to nourish the spiritual health of social workers in the Philippines through its Circle of Prayer (COP) every Wednesday night. This is held via Zoom from 8:00 to 9:00 in the evening, hosted by different PASWI local chapters, facilitated by Sr. Ma. Victoria Sta. Ana, FMA, and Ma’am Eva Ponce de Leon.