by mir321

April 2025 News

APRIL’S ECHOES: THE SACRED AND THE CELEBRATORY

April was marked by the deep personal and communal journey through Lent and the glorious celebration of Easter’s triumph over darkness. The LVF Educating Communities joined in this meaningful Season through recollection of students and staff, sacrament of penance and receiving the sacrament of initiation, actively joining various activities in the church.

Adding to this vibrant mix were the joyous sounds of graduation marches as the Laura Vicuna Women Development Training Center (LVWDTC) in Malihao held its Grade 12 Graduation Ceremony, the proud smiles of graduates, and the hopeful anticipation of their futures. We revisit the key religious insights shared and the memorable moments of academic achievement that defined our April, allowing us to reflect on the sacred foundations that often underpin our greatest celebrations.

It is a month that encompasses spiritual reflection and forward-looking joy and accomplishment.

LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS CITY, NEG. OCC.
GRADE 12 STUDENTS’ GRADUATION CEREMONY
SIKARAN TRAINING – ADINO EZNITE COMBAT GRADUATION
YOUTH ENCOUNTER OF TVET TRAINEES
LVWDTC EDUCATING COMMUNITY GRATITUDE DAY
BLOODLETTING DONATION DRIVE

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN
RECEIVING THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM: BECOMING A CERTIFIED CHILD OF GOD
PALM SUNDAY PREPARATION
THE BARANGAY MACARASCAS FOUNDATION DAY
JOINING THE SALESIAN WORLD FEAST OF GRATITUDE

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
CHILDREN’S RIGHTS IN THE MEDIA AND RECREATION WEEK
CHILDREN’S RIGHT TO ACCESS JUSTICE: AN ONLINE REGIONAL CONSULTATION

SALESIAN COMMUNITIES’ ACTIVITIES
FMA-FIL PROVINCIAL VISIT: CUBAO & PALAWAN
LVF LENTEN RECOLLECTION

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
SUNDAY CATECHESIS
SOLIDARITYSERYE
PASWI COP

GRADE 12 STUDENTS’ GRADUATION CEREMONY

April 15. Fifty-four Grade 12 students proudly celebrated the successful completion of their Senior High School journey during the Graduation Ceremony held on April 15, 2025. Guided by the theme “Henerasyon ng Pagkakaisa: Kaagapay sa Bagong Pilipinas,” the event emphasized unity and purpose as the graduates prepare for the next chapter of their lives. The ceremony began with a Baccalaureate Mass presided over by Fr. Rafael Baja, whose meaningful homily inspired reflection and gratitude. The program was filled with joy and emotion as students received academic, service, and special awards, recognizing their dedication and achievements. Heartfelt messages from Ms. Mary Ann Ballados, our guest speaker, and a proud alumna of LVF Malihao, and the presence of Ms. Agnes Peñas, Education Program Supervisor, added inspiration to an already memorable occasion. The event was a true celebration of perseverance, growth, and the bright future ahead.

LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS CITY, NEG. OCC.

SIKARAN TRAINING – ADINO EZNITE COMBAT GRADUATION
April 10. The Grade 11 students and TVET trainees successfully concluded their Sikaran Training – Adino Eznite Combat on April 10, 2025. The training program, which ran from February to April 2025, provided the participants with valuable skills in self-defense and discipline.
 
The graduation ceremony was made more memorable by the presence of Master Vincent Roa, who served as the guest speaker and witness to the accomplishments of the trainees. This milestone was especially remarkable for the 151 participants, as they not only completed the program with dedication but also gained practical skills that will serve them well in the future.

YOUTH ENCOUNTER OF TVET TRAINEES

A remarkable opportunity was given to the trainees to deepen their faith and support their personal growth through a meaningful 3-day Youth Encounter. The event was facilitated by eight dedicated faculty and staff members of LVF Malihao, who, despite their busy schedules, made time to guide the trainees in this spiritual journey.
 
Due to the large number of participants, the trainees were divided into two groups, allowing everyone the space and atmosphere needed for a more intimate and reflective encounter with the Lord. This experience served as a valuable moment for renewal, connection, and spiritual enrichment.

LVWDTC EDUCATING COMMUNITY GRATITUDE DAY

The Educating Community of LVF Malihao joyfully celebrated Gratitude Day in honor of Sr. Ma. Guia S. Asparen, FMA, our beloved School Directress. This year’s celebration was especially meaningful as it marked her sixth year of dedicated, compassionate, and inspiring service to the LVF Malihao community.

The event carried the heartfelt theme, “Kindness and Generosity is the True Magic of Gratitude,” which was beautifully portrayed through a Cinderella-inspired skit performed by students and trainees dressed as princes and princesses. The program was a fitting tribute to Sr. Ma. Guia’s unwavering commitment, gentle leadership, and nurturing spirit. All sectors of the community expressed their deep appreciation and admiration for her, with touching video messages from past pupils, some of whom were also present to personally share their gratitude and well wishes.

Truly, Sr. Ma. Guia has touched countless lives, and the community is immensely blessed and thankful for the gift of her presence.

BLOODLETTING DONATION DRIVE

April 30. The Laura Vicuña Women Development and Training Center (LVWDTC) recently held a successful bloodletting activity on its campus, demonstrating our strong commitment to community service and saving lives.

With the support of medical professionals from The Philippine Red Cross Negros Occidental Bacolod City Chapter, the school’s multi-purpose hall was transformed into a safe and efficient blood donation center. Students, teachers, past pupils, family members, and friends participated in the activity, driven by the desire to contribute to the local blood supply and help those in need.

The bloodletting activity aimed to raise awareness about the importance of voluntary blood donation and its impact on saving lives, especially for patients undergoing medical treatments, surgeries, or those with medical conditions requiring blood transfusions.

We express our gratitude to the whole school community and past pupils of LVWDTC and St. Mary Mazzarello School Batch 2000 for their support in this first Blood Letting Activity, which is significant in ensuring a stable and sufficient blood supply for local hospitals and patients. This activity also instilled a sense of civic responsibility and compassion among the students and trainees, reinforcing the school’s values of service and social awareness.

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

RECEIVING THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM: BECOMING A CERTIFIED CHILD OF GOD
April 19. One resident-learner and one staff member of LVF Macarascas, Palawan received the Sacrament of Baptism, officiated by Rev. Fr Raphael Euricho A. Maralit, OSJ, during the Black Saturday at San Ezekiel Moreno Parish. The community also joined the easter vigil in the church.

Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua), and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism, we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church, and made sharers in her mission: “Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word.” (Vatican)

Baptism is not just a mere ritual or symbol but rather a significant act of initiation that marks one’s entry into the Christian community. It is through baptism that we receive salvation and become members of the Church; thus, it holds immense importance in our faith.

PALM SUNDAY PREPARATION

April 12. The resident learners of the LVF Macarascas, Palawan, gathered to make Palaspas in preparation for Palm Sunday. The community attended the holy mass at San Ezekiel Moreno Parish of Barangay Macarascas, Puerto Princesa City. This marks the beginning of Holy Week and serves as a reminder to welcome Jesus into our hearts.

When Jesus entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey, the crowd laid palms before Him and shouted, “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” (John 12:13). They recognized in Him the fulfillment of ancient prophecies—a Messiah who would bring salvation. The palm, then, became a sign of joyful welcome and profound expectation.

THE BARANGAY MACARASCAS FOUNDATION DAY

April 26. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc.- Palawan community joined the 67th Founding Anniversary of Barangay Macarascas, Puerto Princesa City, held at the Macarascas Gymnasium. The learners showcased their talents with a presentation number, which the audience enjoyed.

 Macarascas is a barangay in the city of Puerto Princesa on the island of Palawan.

JOINING THE SALESIAN WORLD FEAST OF GRATITUDE

April 27. This day, the community attended the Holy Eucharist at San Ezekiel Moreno Parish and celebrated the World Feast of Gratitude 2025. The community expresses their gratitude and filial affection to the dearest Mother Chiara Cazzuola through offering various elements as of sign of love and fidelity.The community offered Globe, Candles as symbols of fire, Cross, Picture of Mary, and flowers. After the Holy Eucharist, the community has a short activity and games. The community has a very great time celebrating the World Feast of Gratitude to express a ‘choral thanks’ to Mother Chiara, who, with generous dedication and wisdom, guides the Institute in the concreteness of daily giving.

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

CHILDREN’S RIGHTS IN MEDIA AND RECREATION WEEK
Apr. 21-24. LVF Child Advocate Amy actively participated in the 4-day Children’s Rights in Media and Recreation Week held at the B Hotel, Quezon City. The event, organized by the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) in partnership with the Consuelo Zobel Alger Foundation, included an Orientation on the Guidelines in the Media Reporting/Coverage of Children and the Game-Makers Workshop on Children’s Rights. Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo accompanied Amy as an adult support during the activity.

The Guidelines in the Media Reporting/Coverage of Children were enriched by the CWC in 2025, together with children and stakeholders from the media, government, and non-government organizations. The Orientation aims to promote ethical and responsible media reportage of children by equipping both children and adults with the knowledge and skills to recognize and advocate for child-sensitive reporting. Furthermore, the event seeks to ensure that children’s rights, dignity, and safety are upheld in media coverage while fostering their best interests at all times.

Meanwhile, the Game-Makers Workshop on Children’s Rights aims to promote children’s right to play and participate by providing a fun, inclusive, and educational space where children can collaborate, share their experiences, and transform their ideas into a meaningful play activity.

Particularly, the workshop intends to produce a child-created game that not only entertains but also serves as a tool for raising awareness and advocating for children’s rights according to the CWC.

CHILDREN’S RIGHT TO ACCESS JUSTICE: AN ONLINE REGIONAL CONSULTATION

April 22. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc., joined the Online Regional Consultation on Children’s Right To Access to Justice and an effective remedy, organized by the Grassroots Justice Network and UNICEF.

The Committee on the Rights of the Child is currently developing General Comment No. 27, on children’s right to access to justice and an effective remedy. This initiative aims to provide clear and authoritative guidance to States on ensuring these rights for all children. Given the essential role of grassroots justice defenders in this effort, we are organizing two dedicated consultations—one for the Asia region and another for Africa—to gather insights from those working directly with children at the community level.

This consultation seeks to gather insights from grassroots justice defenders on how to strengthen access to justice for children, particularly those from marginalized communities. Specifically, it aims to: a.) Gather feedback on the draft General Comment and recommendations for improvement; b.) Clarify the key roles and responsibilities of grassroots actors in ensuring justice and effective remedies for children; c.) Analyze challenges specific to children’s access to justice from a grassroots perspective and, d.) Identify inspiring practices that can inform general guidance of interest applicable across different contexts and situations.

Ms. Josielyn Hugo, LVF Social Worker, actively engaged in the discussion, sharing LVF’s role in child protection in the Philippines.

SALESIAN COMMUNITIES’ ACTIVITIES

FMA-FIL PROVINCIAL VISIT: CUBAO & PALAWAN
April 5-9. PALAWAN. Sr. Tita Padron, FMA, the FMA-Fil provincial superior, visited the LVF Macarascas, Palawan community. During her visit, Ms. Rachel, a social worker, reflected that “her guidance has illuminated our path, and her fraternal closeness has uplifted our spirits. We are deeply touched by the time she shared with us, her listening heart, and encouraging counsel.”  She left behind a cherished memory and strengthened the community, making it more united in purpose and love.  We offer our prayers for her well-being, the success of her mission, and the fulfillment of her intentions for the province.

April 22. QUEZON CITY. Our dear Sr. Tita, you are Mary’s presence among us, and we welcome you in our midst. Welcome to our home and into our hearts. Welcome to our home and into our hearts. With gratitude, we express our deep love and appreciation for your testimonies of faith, hope, compassion, and unwavering dedication to your role and love for the Institute. Your tireless efforts in the service of animation, your commitment to education, and your nurturing guidance inspire us to also commit to the call of the daily. May you continue to shine as a beacon of hope, finding your strength in God alone. With our lady, we entrust your visit, and so we sing.

LVF LENTEN RECOLLECTION

April 16. PALAWAN. The learners, together with the staff of Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc., joined the recollection administered by Rev. Fr. Danilo A. Nobis, OSJ, held at San Ezekiel Moreno Parish, 9:00 in the morning. The recollection is all about the Lenten Season, enabling us to have spiritual reflection, renewal, and the time to deepen our relationship with God. The community gained a lot of insights, knowledge, and changed perspectives.

April 16. QUEZON CITY. As we prepare ourselves for the LORD’s PASCHAL MYSTERY, LVF staff gathered in a solemn recollection, reflecting on how Jesus Christ revealed his Mercy and Love to us through humility and forgiveness. Sr. Phebe Lacse, FMA, facilitated the recollection, leaving everyone inspired to change for the better.

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

SUNDAY CATECHESIS
Christ is risen! These words capture the whole meaning of our existence, for we were not made for death but for life.

From the empty tomb in Jerusalem, we hear unexpected, good news: Jesus, who was crucified, “is not here, he has risen” (Lk 24:5). Jesus is not in the tomb; he is alive! (Pope Francis “Urbi et Orbi” Message)

As the LVF Community celebrate the Easter Sunday, Ms. Joy Hugo facilitated a Sunday catechism and a fun egg hunting activity. After which, there were sharing of bread, Choco Moo drink and fresh milk from RFM Corp.

His Holiness Pope Francis invites us all to hope anew and to revive our trust in others, including those who are different than ourselves, or who come from distant lands, bringing unfamiliar customs, ways of life, and ideas! … to renew our hope that peace is possible.

The Holy Father appeals that the principle of humanity never fails to be the hallmark of our daily actions. 

In the Lord’s Paschal Mystery, death and life contended in a stupendous struggle, but the Lord now lives forever (cf. Easter Sequence). He fills us with the certainty that we, too, are called to share in the life that knows no end, when the clash of arms and the rumble of death will be heard no more. Let us entrust ourselves to him, for he alone can make all things new (cf. Rev. 21:5)

SOLIDARITYSERYE

Our weekly Solidarityserye efforts continue to bring joy to our children in the Child Protection Clinic Communities. This month, we are blessed to receive fresh milk from RFM Corp. that LVF social workers Ms. Jessa and Ms. Joy distributed.We are also grateful to Breadtalk and Purple Oven for the bread shared with the weekly Sunday Catechesis participants.

PASWI COP

Social work and spirituality are increasingly recognized as interconnected aspects of human experience that can significantly influence well-being and the helping process. The demanding nature of social work can lead to burnout and compassion fatigue. A social worker’s spirituality can be a vital resource for their resilience, and the Circle of Prayer (COP) has become the social workers’ weekly prayer habit in the Philippines, organized by the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI). This month, the PASWI-COP prayer themes leaned towards the Lenten Season. It is a time for personal reflection, acknowledging shortcomings, and striving for spiritual renewal. Through prayer and reflection, social workers can draw strength and guidance from their spiritual practices, fostering resilience in the face of challenging work.

by mir321

March 2025 News

MARCH OF COURAGE: THE LEGACY AND STRENGTH OF WOMEN ACROSS GENERATIONS

March is a month brimming with significant observances, notably Women’s Month, Social Work Month, and Girl-Child Week —each one celebrating the resilience, dignity, and contributions of women and girls. This month, we honor the trailblazing women of generations past who courageously fought for rights like suffrage and equal opportunity, paving the way for stronger protections against abuse and exploitation for women and children today. Their legacy continues to inspire and empower the women of today and tomorrow.

The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. (LVF) is privileged to be led by empowered women at the helm who follow the example of Mary and Mother Mazzarello, under the spiritual guidance of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians. In the spirit of shared responsibility, LVF launched the #iamBRAVE campaign in North Cotabato, Mindanao, calling upon everyone, especially peers, to become active partners in promoting respect, dignity, and protection for women and girls who are often victims of violence, exploitation, and objectification. Together, we continue to build a respectful, just, and strong society.

LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN                                

LVF RECEIVED THE MAYOR’S AWARD!

LVF MACARASCAS,ADVANCING IN AGRICULTURE AS AN LSA!

BEYOND THE SCREEN: MOVIE WATCHING & LESSONS LEARNED

GRATITUDE DAY: A SALESIAN TRADITION

SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL VISIT

SAVINGS SIMULATION SEMINAR

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

DSWD SPOT MONITORING’

LVF LAUNCHES ‘DIWA ’- AN LVF CAMPAIGN TO END ABUSE, VIOLENCE, & EXPLOITATION!

LVF GRATITUDE DAY CELEBRATION!

WORLD SOCIAL WORK MONTH!

NORTH COTABATO WSWD CELEBRATION

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2025

LVF COMMUNITIES’ HOLY WEEK PREPARATION

ASH WEDNESDAY

STATIONS OF THE CROSS: COMMEMORATING JESUS’S DEATH AND RESURRECTION

LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

ISO STAGE 1 AUDIT

SCHOOL PROMOTION AT BARANGAY ESTADO NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

PROVINCIAL VISIT: ENCOUNTER WITH SISTERS, STAFF & SUPPORT PERSONNEL, PARENTS
GRADE 12 YOUTH ENCOUNTER

LVF CUBAO, QC WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

SUNDAY CATECHESIS

SOLIDARITYSERYE

PASWI-COP

LVF #iamBRAVE IN MINDANAO: A HISTORIC FIRST

March 20-21. On the occasion of World Social Welfare Month and the Week of the Child promoted by the Philippine Council for Children’s Welfare (March 23-29) with the theme, “There is no room for violence in society:  Fight against the abuse and exploitation of girls, online and offline” – the Foundation Laura Vicuña of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, of the Province St. Mary Mazzarello (FIL), launched the #iamBRAVE Movement in Mindanao, south Philippines.

With the mission of protecting children and young people – carried out with determination by Sister Maria Victoria Santa Ana, Sister Sheila Ducot, two social workers: Joy and Rosea and volunteer, Carolyn/Monz; – the Foundation has made the courageous decision to launch this Movement in a region with a long history of armed conflict, to bring hope to young people and communities that are too often forgotten.

The Movement #iamBRAVE – Friends Reject Abuse, Violence, and Exploitation  – is not political and is not limited to any group or sector. It is a humanitarian mission, an appeal at the national level to protect everyone, regardless of age, gender, or origin.

The decision to bring #iamBRAVE to Mindanao was inspired by the success of the first launch in Victorias City, in Negros Occidental, where on 15 November 2024, some 2,000 young people gathered to affirm that the safety of children is not a privilege but a human right.

The overwhelming response of young people in Negros has strengthened the commitment to bring this initiative to Mindanao by the National President of the Philippine Social Workers’ Association (PASWI), Sister Maria Victoria Santa Ana, and National PASWI Vice President, John Karl Ballentes, where many children and young people are exposed to abuse, violence, and exploitation. Mayor Rolly Sacdalan graced the event with his presence, manifesting his support for the #iamBRAVE Launch in his city.

On 20 and 21 March 2025, more than 1,400 senior high school and freshman students from Carmen National High School and Southern Christian College gathered not only to listen but also to write their manifesto: a collective commitment to protect themselves, their peers, and their communities from danger.

In the national celebrations of Girl-Child Week, Women’s Month, and Social Work Month, the initiative of the #iamBRAVE Movement takes on an even deeper meaning. It is a tribute to every advocate who fights for justice, every social worker in selfless service, every survivor who regains their voice, and every child who deserves a future free from suffering.

LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN

LVF RECEIVED THE MAYOR’S AWARD!

March 03. The Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc., Macarascas, Palawan received the Mayor’s Award, the only religious Non-Government Organization to receive this prestigious acknowledgement from the Puerto Princesa, Palawan LGU, rendered during the 153rd Founding Anniversary!

This is yet another significant milestone for LVF Palawan, proving that it is making a positive impact and contributing to the development of the society it is present in through collaboration with stakeholders, parents, and other community members. Sr. Rosalia A. Panganiban, FMA, and Sr. Carmela Barbosa, FMA The celebration was held at Edward S. Hagedorn Coliseum in Barangay San Pedro.

LVF MACARASCAS－ADVANCING IN AGRICULTURE AS AN LSA

March 24. The LVF Macarascas, Palawan, is an accredited Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA). This year, the Regional Technical Working Group (RTWG) of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI)—RTC MIMAROPA conducted a field validation and ocular inspection to renew the LSA application. The RTWG was led by Mr. Jayson N. Erondo, Senior Agriculturist/PAS Chief.

On its website, the Department of Agriculture (DA) states that the LSA is a farm practicing applicable agricultural technology, employing doable farming strategies, and operating successfully, thus being worthy of emulation. The LSA will serve as a model or an example to showcase applicable agriculture technologies and agri-products/by-products processing technologies. In this way, they are seen to help improve the capabilities of small farmers and other rural community members. At present, there are more than 300 LSAs all over the Philippines. 

BEYOND THE SCREEN: MOVIE WATCHING & LESSONS LEARNED

March 09. The learners/students of the community watched a movie entitled “YES DAY”. The movie portrays the importance of parenting and family relationships. The movie teaches that while rules and structures are necessary, allowing children freedom, fun, and shared decision-making can strengthen family bonds. It encourages parents to listen to their kids, be open to new experiences, and find ways to connect through joy and mutual understanding.

After the movie, they had a minute to think about the lesson they had learned and share it with their fellow students. After sharing, they wrote their insights and moral lessons on a piece of bond paper. Watching movies does not only end after its post credits, but it should leave a long-lasting impact of learning and change among its audience.

GRATITUDE DAY: A SALESIAN TRADITION

March 10-18. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. Macarascas, Palawan celebrated the Gratitude day with the theme: “Pusong mapagpasalamat, Diwa ng Pag-Asa” (A Grateful Heart, A Spirit of Hope). We dedicated the entire day to our community animator, Sr. Rose Panganiban, FMA, to express our gratitude for her unwavering commitment and compassion in guiding and uplifting the community and for being the light and hope of the community. One of the program’s numerous highlights is the students’ and staff’s dramatic presentation entitled “Ang Pagsibol ng Binhi nang Pag-Asa” (The Seed of Hope Grows).

As part of the gratitude day celebration, the community offered a Novena of prayers for the intentions of Day 1 for Trainees, Day 2 for Volunteers, Day 3 for Priests, Day 4 for past pupils, Day 5 for Parents, Day 6 for benefactors, Day 7 for Learners, Day 8 for Staff, and on the 9th day, for the FMA Sisters and a prayer for those who are part of the community and the people it serves.

SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL VISIT

March 14. The Soroptimist International, a global volunteer organization that empowers women, visited the LVF Macarascas community. The Soroptimist Organization seeks to empower women economically, and in keeping with this goal, they sought to protect Mother Earth by practicing environmental stewardship. The Soroptimist talked about being morally upright, being able to carry out sustainable practices, and working together, which are all beneficial aspects of caring for the environment. As part of their “Trees for Tomorrow” campaign, they planted fruit-bearing trees together with the Salesian sisters, students, and staff. The organization and the community have a great time planting and caring for the environment.

SAVINGS SIMULATION SEMINAR

March 06. The Savings Simulation Seminar of German Sparkassenstiftung was conducted at the center, Laura Vicuna Foundation Inc., Ma’am Carla Virtudazo, and Sir Percival Yaya administered and carried it out. Participants include staff members, parents, and students. The trainers prepared games with explained mechanics that enable each group to select a goal while also improving their quality of life. This demonstrates how each group can make sensible choices to reach their objective. Through the simulation, the participants will learn how to properly save and secure money and use it in a practical way. It is especially beneficial for parents who budget for their daily needs and students who have just started saving money on their own.

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

DSWD SPOT MONITORING

March 27. Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc., Cubao, Quezon City, underwent spot monitoring by Mr. Ryan, DSWD SWDA Representative, conducted by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The assessment showed that the Foundation is compliant with the DSWD Standards, with minimal recommendations from the assessor.

LVF LAUNCHES ‘DIWA’－AN LVF CAMPAIGN TO END ABUSE, VIOLENCE, & EXPLOITATION

March 24. The short film “DIWA,” the advocacy campaign of the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. of the Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco, powerfully portrays the complex challenges our young people face today, particularly the dangers of offline and online sexual abuse and exploitation of children and youth.

We invite you to join us, take a stand, and be part of the LVF movement: BUDDIES REJECT ABUSE, VIOLENCE, & EXPLOITATION—or #iamBRAVE!

As God’s children, we are all born with inherent worth, dignity, and equal rights. At its core, bravery affirms a fundamental truth: safety is not a privilege—it is a human right!

This is our CALL TO ACTION! It is our shared responsibility to combat abuse, violence, trafficking, and exploitation. Together, let us build a respectful, safe, compassionate, and strong society! #iamBRAVE!

(March 24-29, 2025. On the occasion of the start of the Girl-Child Week with the theme “Walang Puwang sa Lipunan ang Karahasan: Labanan ang Pang-aabuso at Eksploytasyon sa Batang Babae, Online at Offline.”)

LVF GRATITUDE DAY CELEBRATION

March 30. The Philippine Provincial Educating Community celebrated its annual Gratitude Day 2025 with the theme: “Gratefully, we celebrate with renewed hope,” held at Mary Help of Christians School, Canlubang, Laguna.

The celebration of the gratitude day tradition can be traced back to Don Bosco’s name day in Valdocco, Turin, Italy. He wanted the young people to express thanks to him with songs, music, and a lot of joy. The first feast of gratitude was in 1849 and spontaneously began with two boys who offered him two “silver hearts” (cf. Biographical Memoirs III 354).

In the bloodline of the Salesian family, it is a tradition to thank each other for being part of each other’s lives. It is not just for the provincial superior, Sr. Tita, but this is to celebrate all the people who loved and served in the fulfillment of God’s plans for His beloved children, the young people.

The celebration started with commemorating the Holy Eucharist, which was presided over by Fr. Juvelan, SDB. After which, each community presented their well-prepared, beautiful, vibrant dance presentations and gifts as a gesture of thanks and appreciation towards Sr. Tita. Marj, LVF, 15-year-old girl, “thanked Sr. Tita, FMA, our provincial superior, for all that she had done to the FIL-FMA Province.”

The afternoon activity was filled with exciting and youthful energy as each group enthusiastically engaged in various games: Saint Games inspired by the Squid Game series, basketball, Volleyball, Kickball, and Badminton.

WORLD SOCIAL WORK MONTH CELEBRATIONS

Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA, RSW, MSSW, National President of the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI), was invited by the PASWI San Juan City Chapter, as well as the National Capital Region Cluster, and later by PASWI Antipolo, as guest speaker of their celebrations of the WSWD with a local theme: “Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity for Enduring Well-being”. This is through the invitation of the PASWI San Juan Chapter, headed by Ms. Portia Esquillo, RSW, City Social Welfare and Development Department Head. The WDSD celebrations were held last March 19 at the Atrium of San Juan City Hall, March 22 at CEU, Manila, and March 29 at PASWI Antipolo.

Social Work is a profession that is concerned with a person’s adjustment in their environment, a person in relation to their social situation.

It seeks to enhance the social functioning of individuals, singly and in groups, by activities focused upon their social relationships, which constitute the interaction between man and his environment.

This year, we celebrate World Social Work Day with the theme “Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity for Enduring Wellbeing”. Social Workers, on the other hand, work directly with, and on behalf of, a wide variety of populations; they create change in many ways — from high, system-level change (macro practice) to the individual level (micro practice). Social workers make an impact at all levels of practice. Social workers have made an invaluable contribution in various fields, including hospitals, schools, government agencies, and non-profit organizations around the globe. They are at the forefront of addressing societal challenges, including poverty, mental health, child welfare, substance abuse, and elder care.

At LVF, we are proud of our dedicated, compassionate social workers: Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA; Ms. Josielyn Hugo; Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo; Ms. Rosea Marie Monsay; and all the former social workers who have helped shape the institutionalization of the Foundation.

NORTH COTABATO WSWD CELEBRATION

March 22. In celebration of the World Social Work Day (WSWD), Mr. Karl Ballentes organized the World Social Work Day Celebration 2025 at Carmen, Cotabato, with 200-plus social workers participating from North Cotabato, with keynote speaker Honorable Gov. Lala Taliño Mendoza.

Mr. Karl Ballentes told the social workers his gratitude that the Philippine Association of Social Workers Inc. (PASWI) national president, Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA, has graced this joyful celebration of World Social Work Day 2025!

Sr. Marivic conveyed her appreciation to all social workers, as the organization’s national president, expressing that “…at PASWI, we consider this a day of thanksgiving for all that was, is, and will be! Thank you to each one of you, thanks for all that you do, your love and sacrifices to uplift those at the fringes of your localities to live meaningful and dignified lives.”  Furthermore, she added that the celebration is a way of “…paying tribute to all [of us] social workers who have worked across generations, creating meaningful, safe, and productive spaces for young and old to share the same table, empowering each other in the process of communal growth toward a shared future.”

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2025

March 09. In celebration of International Women’s Day, LVF Social Workers Ms. Josielyn Hugo and Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo conducted an advocacy session on Gender Equality and the Magna Carta for Women in Marikina and Taguig. We celebrate the significant contributions of all women to shaping the family, society, the country, and the world.

LVF COMMUNITIES’ HOLY WEEK PREPARATION

ASH WEDNESDAY

March 05. “Gracious God, today begins a period of inner reflection and examination. The days before me invite me inward to that silent, holy space that holds your Spirit. This special time beckons me to see my life through Christ’s eyes and the truth and reality of your love incarnate. Give me the grace to enter the space of these days with anticipation of our meeting. And, when I open my soul to your presence, let your loving kindness flow over me and seep into the pockets of my heart. I ask this for the sake of your love.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS: COMMEMORATING JESUS’S DEATH AND RESURRECTION

March 07. On this day, the community, Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc., commemorated Jesus Christ’s death throughout the Lenten season this month. Within the center, the community conducted stations of the cross, which were led by the Salesian sisters together with the learners and personnel. This exercise honors the sacrifices made by Jesus in repentance for humanity’s sins.

LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

ISO STAGE 1 AUDIT

March 03. The ISO Stage 1 Audit took place on March 3, 2025 (Monday) at the school AVR, with Ms. Jogina Mendiola from TUV Rheinland serving as the auditor. The FMA Sisters, faculty, and staff participated as auditees. This initial assessment focused on evaluating the school’s compliance with international quality standards, reviewing documentation, processes, and overall readiness for the next certification phase. As a result, the school is now set to proceed to Stage 2 of the certification process.

SCHOOL PROMOTION AT BARANGAY ESTADO NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

March 11. The School Promotion event, led by Ms. Aika F. Tacud, Ms. Ma.. Victoria V. Seluce and Mr. Rino N. Barrido occurred at Barangay Estado National High School. They engaged with the 60 graduating Senior High School students, explaining the skills they would acquire in the technical school and the values upheld by the Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. This initiative aimed to guide students in exploring future educational and career opportunities.

PROVINCIAL VISIT: ENCOUNTER WITH SISTERS, STAFF & SUPPORT PERSONNEL, PARENTS

March 18-20. The arrival of Sr. Teresita C. Padron, FMA, Provincial Superior, and the Students Encounter with the Provincial Superior took place at the School Multi-purpose Hall and field. Upon her arrival, Sr. Teresita was warmly welcomed by a colorful dance performance by the students, which was specially prepared for the occasion. During the event, Sr. Teresita had an inspiring talk with the students, encouraging them to finish their studies and assuring them that there is no shame in attending technical schools. She emphasized that many successful individuals have graduated from these institutions, highlighting the valuable opportunities they provide.

The Faculty, Staff, and Support Personnel Encounter with Sr. Teresita C. Padron, FMA, Provincial Superior, took place at the school AVR. Sr. Teresita C. Padron, FMA, along with Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, engaged with the faculty, staff, and support personnel during this significant event. In a gesture of appreciation, Sr. Teresita gave tokens to the employees. In response to her thoughtfulness, the employees also presented a token of appreciation to Sr. Teresita, expressing their gratitude for her leadership and support. The encounter allowed the school’s team to connect with the Provincial Superior, strengthening their bond and understanding of the institution’s values and mission.

The Parent Oratorian Encounter with Sr. Teresita C. Padron, FMA, Provincial Superior, took place at the school AVR. Sr. Teresita C. Padron, FMA, and Sr. Josefina D.C. Oliveros engaged with the Parent Oratorian community. This event provided an opportunity for parents to connect with the Provincial Superior, deepening their understanding of the values and mission upheld by the institution and strengthening their involvement in the school community.

GRADE 12 YOUTH ENCOUNTER

March 24-26. The Grade 12 Youth Encounter took place at the AVR, facilitated by the faculty, staff, and support personnel. The Grade 12 students engaged in meaningful discussions, spiritual growth, and reflection during the event. A key part of the experience was the opportunity for the students to participate in confession, allowing them to reflect on their faith and personal lives. After the encounter, many students shared their realizations, particularly how they learned to value their lives and found a deeper connection with God. Spending several days without their cellphones helped them gain valuable insights into their faith, personal growth, and the importance of living a purposeful life as they prepare for the next phase of their journey.

LVF CUBAO, QC WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

SUNDAY CATECHESIS

Sundays at LVF are filled with joy, fun games, and learning, followed by a meaningful moment of prayer. Sr. Sarah Grace Robas, FMA, facilitates the Sunday Catechesis held at LVF Cubao ground floor, joined by about fifty (50) children and young people, assisted by the community parent-leaders from the Child Protection Clinic Communities in Hillcrest and Brgy. Pinagkaisahan. Sr. Sarah introduced the 2025 Jubilee Year to the participants. The Jubilee Year, with this year’s theme ‘Pilgrims of Hope,’ is a special year of grace in which the Church faithfully offers the possibility of obtaining a plenary indulgence. This significant event is celebrated by the Church every 25 years. 

SOLIDARITYSERYE

LVF’s efforts to stay connected with our brothers and sisters are rooted in the conviction that all human beings are intrinsically linked because they are created in God’s image and likeness. This is not merely a moral recommendation but a demand that arises from faith and the commandment to love our neighbor. It. This has become a way of life, a lifestyle in the LVF communities. The Foundation is thankful for its consistent donors and benefactors, RFM Corporation, Breadtalk, and Purple Oven, who share their resources through in-kind donations. We pray that the good Lord will hear their prayers and bless their loved ones and company endeavors.

PASWI-COP

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

The Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI) midweek Circle of Prayer (COP) is an opportunity for all social workers nationwide to pause, take a rest, to lay down their yoke and heavy burdens from the days that have passed.

Social workers are often weary and burdened by the hustle and bustle of a busy life. They are faced with different clientele and varied problems to attend to. All these urgent, stacked cases eventually weigh down some. The COP is the perfect time to rest one’s weary soul. It is also the time to ask for grace, wisdom, and strength for the days to come.

This Wednesday prayer habit is co-hosted by different PASWI local chapters and facilitated by Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA, and Ma’am Eva Ponce de Leon, PASWI Executive Director.

by mir321

February 2025 News

A HEARTY FEBRUARY: LEAVING AND MAKING HEARTPRINTS

Love is in the air this February! At LVF, love goes beyond words—it moves hearts and breaks barriers. As we celebrated Family Day, we witnessed how familial love transcends differences and challenges, strengthening the bonds among its members.
 
This month has been doubly meaningful, blessed with the encounter with Mother Chiara Cazzuola, FMA, Superior General of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA Institute), and a desktop PC and a printer donation turnover by Israel’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Ilan Fluss, and MASHAV. Meanwhile, LVF Social Workers led counseling and self-awareness sessions, fostering personal growth and self-acceptance among those we serve. Thus, enhancing our relationship with our authentic selves. In essence, these moments weave a tapestry of love and compassion, leaving heartprints that linger long after.
 
Rooted in Don Bosco’s vision of education as a transformative tool for every person and their families, LVF continues its mission of intensifying the promotion of the TVET Centers to various schools in Negros Occidental, Palawan, and Metro Manila. These efforts open opportunities for access to affordable, quality education, especially for those on the margins, because, as Don Bosco said, “Education is a matter of the heart.”
 
As pilgrims, we journey together, unfolding and embracing God’s divine plan for our lives. Along the way, we leave indelible imprints of love and transformation, touching hearts, uplifting souls, and inspiring lasting change.
 
LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
 
FAMILY DAY CELEBRATION AT THE LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION: A DAY OF LOVE AND UNITY
29TH NATIONAL AWARENESS WEEK FOR THE PREVENTION OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE AND EXPLOITATION FORUM
CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE AWARENESS WEEK (CSAAW) CELEBRATION
AMBASSADOR ILAN & MASHAV TURNED OVER OF A DESKTOP
NCCT- ALL FOR RELEVANT & DEVELOPMENTALLY APPROPRIATE TV PROGRAMS!
 
LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN
 
SESSION FOR SELF-AWARENESS
COUNSELING SESSION
SESSION WITH THE STAFF
ROTARY CLUB ANNUAL VISITATION AND COMMUNITY VISIT OF THE GENERAL COUNCILOR FOR THE MISSION
 
LVF LVWDTC MALIHAO, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL
 
SCHOOL PROMOTION AND PERSONAL COLLECTION (PC) WORK IMMERSION ORIENTATION
A DAY WITH THE PAST PUPILS
2 DAYS INTERNAL QUALITY AUDITING
SCHOLARSHIP IMPLEMENTERS MEETING FOR FY 2025
SCHOOL PROMOTION AND FIRST DAY OF WORK IMMERSION OF THE FIRST BATCH OF THE GRADE 12 GARMENTS TECHNOLOGY STUDENTS
 
A MEANINGFUL ENCOUNTER WITH MOTHER CHIARA CAZZUOLA!
 
LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
SUNDAY CATECHESIS
PASWI COP
SOLIDARITYSERYE

FAMILY DAY CELEBRATION AT THE LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION: A DAY OF LOVE AND UNITY

The Filipino family is the foundation of the nation. This is the first place where children learn all the basics of life, and the parents are the first teachers.

Feb. 16. Every year, the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. celebrates its Annual Family Day. This year’s theme is “Pamilya Ko, Pag-Asa Ko” (My Family, My Hope), sponsored by LVF’s long-time benefactors, Mr.& Mrs. Precious and Alice Andam, whom the girls fondly call “Mommy & Daddy.”

The girls at LVF, under its healing and recovery program, may have been hurt and scarred by some of their family members, but the anticipation as the gate opens and how their faces lit up with joy seeing their mothers, grandmothers, fathers, and siblings arrive were evident! Michie, 11-year-old Vicunian expressed how happy she was when her mother came despite her busy schedule, she was able to come (kahit busy siya, nagawa niya pa ring bumisita) 

While other girls are busy entertaining and talking with their families.  ‘Although my family was unable to come, I am still happy to help in the preparation of  lunch to be shared during mealtimes,’ said Pin. 

To some of the girls, the surge of sadness was inevitable even though it was expected that no one from their family would arrive, given the situation and the location of their hometowns. The LVF community ensures that they are not alone and that the Sisters, staff, and Vicunians are their families for now. “I believe that I am not alone. I have God,” said Phine. The movie ‘Mufasa’ reminds us that ‘no one is ever alone in this journey called life. I will find my family again. I will walk with you until then. I will walk with you until the end. It is much easier with a friend…’

In her message, Mommy Alice reiterated that life must continue, moving forward and letting go of the past, “wag magstay sa past.” Pope Francis’ “Spes non confundit! Hope does not disappoint!” explains, we need hope that inspires us to be pilgrims, propels us into action, and prompts us to take the first step.

We reverberate with this year’s Strenna: “Anchored in hope, Pilgrims with Young People”. As a family, we journey and walk together with our girls in the Foundation and with other young people.

29TH NATIONAL AWARENESS WEEK FOR THE PREVENTION OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE AND EXPLOITATION FORUM

Feb. 11. Alongside our celebration of the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, the Laura Vicuna Foundation parents from our Child Protection Clinic on Wheels with LVF Social Worker, Ms. Angie Mae Villaren participated in the 29th National Awareness Week for the Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Forum with the theme’ Maging Solusyon: Labanan ang Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children!’ held on February 11, 2025, at QC Experience, Quezon City Circle, Diliman, Quezon City.

The Forum was attended by parents, teachers, barangay officials, participating NGOs, LGUs, and GOs. The program started with a prayer, followed by National Anthem, and Opening remarks led by Usec. Angelo M. Tapales of CWC; and Ms. Christine Urrea of International Justice Mission presented the Situational Analysis on OSAEC and CSAEM.

The Forum discussed the realities of children and youth who are victims of OSAEC and how to prevent the widespread of OSAEC and CSAEM, as well as raise awareness, especially among parents whose children are vulnerable to OSAEC, given the increasing use of social media and Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The participants also engaged in a Question-and-answer forum with Panelist; Usec. Angelo M. Tapales (CWC), PLTCOL Ayn E. Natuel (PNP), Ms. Maria Caridad H. Tarroja, Phd (DLSU), Ms. Maricel D. Esguia (WHI), Facilitated by Director Romy Fay Gumba (Office of Sen. Risa Hontiveros). The Forum ended with the signing of A Community Manifesto that provides special protections to children from all forms of abuse and exploitation.

CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE AWARENESS WEEK (CSAAW) CELEBRATION

Feb. 23: Every year, the second week of February is dedicated in commemoration of Child Sexual Abuse Awareness Week with Proclamation No. 731, Declaring the Second Week of February as “National Awareness Week for the Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation. This year’s theme is “Maging Solusyon: Labanan ang Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children,” which focuses mainly on the prevalence of Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC).

LVF social workers Ms. Josielyn Hugo, Ms. Angie Mae Villaren, and Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo conducted an awareness session on children’s rights, forms of child abuse, and how to report cases of abuse.

Ms. Angie Mae reiterated how OSAEC occurs, backing her data with research underscoring the harsh reality: many OSAEC cases involve perpetrators who are parents, relatives, or close family acquaintances. Sr. Sarah Grace Robas, FMA, gave the good day talk to the participants.

AMBASSADOR ILAN & MASHAV TURNED OVER OF DONATION

Feb. 17. Ambassador Ilan Fluss, Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines, and Ambassador Eynat Shlein, Deputy Director-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jerusalem, Israel, and Head of Mashav along with Deputy Ambassador Ester Buzgan, and Ms. Tamar Yarden turned over one PC and a printer to the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. THE LVF Cubao Community is deeply grateful to Ambassador Ilan Fluss for his continuous support of the LVF mission.

NCCT: ALL FOR RELEVANT & DEVELOPMENTALLY APPROPRIATE TV PROGRAMS

Feb. 02. Today, as we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Child Jesus; & of the Religious & Consecrated, the LVF CPC Children ages 10-17 years old participated in the National Council for Children’s Television’s Survey with a project entitled A Study on the Relevance of Television and Developmentally Appropriate Television Programs for Filipino Children.

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

SESSION FOR SELF-AWARENESS
February 16. Ma’am Monette, the guidance counselor, met with the center’s students. During the self-awareness session, learners were able to express themselves and gain a deeper understanding of their strengths and weaknesses.

After the ball was distributed, the activity started, and each student had the opportunity to describe what they had seen. Expectations were established as the conversation got underway. It all begins with the question of how one should approach setting a goal or achieving something one wants to accomplish. When someone has the energy and mobility to achieve their goals, can communicate effectively, and knows where they are headed, they should take those steps with care and concentration.

The students were handed a ball for the second activity. It starts by asking them how much they are burdened by their struggles, anger, and resentment. They are asked to rate the challenge’s difficulty while keeping their eyes closed. The ball then becomes the target of their resentment, negative thoughts, rage, and bad experiences.

There was also an activity called the “happiness ball,” where students reflected on their childhood memories, specifically the good times they had experienced. During this activity, the students can be found in the field, the hut, the garden, and the dormitory. Some students lay on the ground, while others hugged the trees. After this, time has also been allotted for each student to share their experiences.

Following that exercise, they discussed how to manage their feelings, making a distinction between reacting and responding to them. The students are allowed to talk about their experiences with one another through sharing. The practice concludes with the students writing a love letter to themselves about their accomplishments and gratitude at such a young age.

COUNSELING SESSION

Feb. 17. The students were taken out to talk with the counselor one-on-one. It took place at the Social Works office, which upholds confidentiality. Through counseling, everyone can express their feelings. In addition to reflecting on their circumstances and issues, the students have insights and realizations.

SESSION WITH THE STAFF

February 18. On this day, the staff members gathered for a brief conversation with Ma’am Monette, the counselor. Ma’am Monette discussed situations, experiences, and insights related to the words “hope,” “contribution,” “gratitude,” and “care.”  The community made a card out of letters to show their appreciation for Ma’am Monette. They have developed positive attitudes and gained insight into their emotions, as well as learned practical coping mechanisms and are encouraged to communicate more freely.

ROTARY CLUB ANNUAL VISITATION AND COMMUNITY VISIT OF THE GENERAL COUNCILOR FOR THE MISSION

February 15. LVF Palawan’s generous and kind benefactor, the Rotary Club of Puerto Princesa Central, visited the community to hand over its annual donation of clothes, goods, and an additional to the center’s annual budget. Sr. Rosalia Panganiban, FMA, in her brief message, expressed gratitude to the benefactor for their compassion and consistent support to LVF Palawan, which has had a significant impact on the delivery of help and support to the community. Through a short performance, the community expressed its sincere appreciation for their generous support.

The community came together in the afternoon to welcome the General Councilor for Mission, Sr. Ruth, and Sr. Guia, along with their companion, Ma’am Monette, the guidance counselor, Ma’am Emer, and Sr. Cathy, a member of the Taytay FMA. The community members welcomed the visitors by singing a Marian song. The community showcases its talents in performing traditional dances and songs performed by the learners. The learners performed the Tinikling dance, while the staff members performed the Kuratsa dance.

The community greatly appreciated the visit. As the community sincerely values its support and looks forward to welcoming her again in the future, the General Councilor’s visit reinforced the center’s commitment to serve with faith and dedication.

LVF LVWDTC MALIHAO, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

SCHOOL PROMOTION AND PERSONAL COLLECTION (PC) WORK IMMERSION ORIENTATION
 
Feb. 05. Ms. Ma. Aika F. Tacud, Assistant Registrar, along with teachers Ms. Maybelle L. Capillanes and Mr. Rino N. Barrido, conducted a school promotion event for Grade 10 students at Victorias City Farm School, formerly VNHS Alfonso Sta. Ana Extension. The event aimed to inform students about the school’s academic programs and extracurricular opportunities. The facilitators also expressed their gratitude to the principal and teachers for their support and accommodation, which contributed to the success of the promotion. On the same day, the staff from Personal Collection (PC), Ms. Jasmine D. Parlocha, Ms. Daniela Parcon, and Mr. Crys Belleza, conducted a PC Work Immersion Orientation for the Grade 12 students. This session provided students with valuable insights into the significance of the PC work immersion experience, preparing them for future career paths and equipping them with the skills necessary for success in their chosen fields.

A DAY WITH THE PAST PUPILS

Feb. 8. Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, and Ms. Ma. Socorro C. Bayles guided the OJT students and past pupils during a fun-filled day at Enchanted Kingdom, Sta. Rosa, Laguna, with free entrance sponsored by generous donors. The day included exciting extreme rides and team-building activities, which strengthened connections and created unforgettable memories.

2 DAYS INTERNAL QUALITY AUDITING

Feb. 10 and 17. Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, the Technical Directress, along with the faculty and staff, participated in a two-day Internal Quality Audit training as part of the school’s ISO 9001:2015 accreditation process. The training was conducted via Google Meet Web Training – Online Conference, with Mr. Edgar F. Paca, Managing Director and Principal Consultant of QCS – Consultancy and Training, as the facilitator. The sessions focused on the principles and processes of internal quality auditing, providing participants with critical insights and skills to ensure the school’s compliance with the standards set by ISO 9001-2015. This training is a crucial step in the school’s ongoing efforts to maintain and improve its quality management system in preparation for ISO accreditation.

Overviewing of the School Information System using the Systems for the Registrar and Accounting Staff.

SCHOLARSHIP IMPLEMENTERS MEETING FOR FY 2025 

February 12. The RTC Talisay Covered Court hosted the Scholarship Implementers’ Meeting for Fiscal Year 2025. Ms. Ailene M. Ondon, representing Laura Vicuna Foundation Inc. Malihao, joined educators and officials to discuss plans for the year, focusing on transparency and accessibility to provide more educational opportunities for students across Negros.

MONITORING AND INSPECTION OF SOLAR PANELS AND POWER LINES FOR NET METERING APPLICATION

February 18. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. hosted an inspection of its solar panels and power lines to facilitate the Net Metering Application. Led by Engr. Allan Jalando-on Jr. from NONECO, the team also included Ms. Ma. Aika F. Tacud, Assistant Registrar; Mr. Rino N. Barrido, a teacher; and Mr. Glen P. Tonog Sr., support personnel.
 
The inspection covered both the Main Building and Annex Building, ensuring the solar system met the technical requirements for net metering, which will enable the school to generate and feed excess energy back into the grid.

SCHOOL PROMOTION AND FIRST DAY OF WORK IMMERSION OF THE FIRST BATCH OF THE GRADE 12 GARMENTS TECHNOLOGY STUDENTS

Feb. 20. Ms. Ma. Aika F. Tacud, Assistant Registrar, along with teachers Ms. Maybelle L. Capillanes and Mr. Kenneth John P. Cornelio, facilitated a school promotion event for 60 Grade 10 students at Barangay Estado National High School. The session highlighted the school’s academic programs and extracurricular opportunities, providing valuable insights to the students. The facilitators also expressed their gratitude to the school’s principal and teachers for allowing them to conduct the event.

A MEANINGFUL ENCOUNTER WITH MOTHER CHIARA CAZZUOLA!

Feb. 07. Cubao, QC. The Philippine FMA Province warmly welcomed Mother Chiara Cazzuola, FMA, Superior General of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA Institute)! With her arrival, the LVF girls were blessed to have an up-close and personal encounter with her, as well as the opportunity to serenade her and the Council.

Yana, a 19-year-old LVF, expressed that her initial interaction with Mother Chiara has been incredibly motivating. She radiates warmth and sincerity in everything she says and does, embodying kindness, wisdom, and humility. Her serene presence around her speaks volumes about her empathy and dedication to her mission. She is a modest leader who lives by her religion, and she leaves a lasting impact on others around her. She penetrates hearts and souls with love and devotion, and I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to witness her caring nature.’

Mother Chiara Cazzuola is the 10th successor of Mary Domenica Mazzarello.

Feb. 7. Malihao. Don Bosco School in Sta. Mesa, Manila, hosted a special gathering with Mother General Mo. Chiara Cazzuola, leader of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA). She guides the congregation’s mission of educating and spiritually nurturing young people, particularly girls and women, through the Salesian charism. Sr. Ma. Guia S. Asparen, FMA, Sr. Josefina D.C. Oliveors, FMA, Sr. Therese Yvonne L. Jance, FMA, Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, Ms. Ma. Socorro C. Bayles, OJT, and the Past Pupils were blessed to meet her. Her inspiring words reminded them to live the Salesian values of love, joy, and service. The day was filled with reflection, laughter, and strengthened bonds within the Salesian family. In addition, students and teachers from Malihao joined the encounter by watching it live online, connecting with the event, and experiencing the spiritual energy from a distance.

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

SUNDAY CATECHESIS
The LVF Child Protection Clinic Communities (CPC) gather as a family every Sunday of the week at the Laura Vicuña Center to participate in catechesis and spiritual formation facilitated by Sr. Phebe Lacse, FMA, and Sarah Grace Robas, FMA. This weekly catechesis and spiritual formation strengthen faith and encourages the children, young people, and parents to grow closer to God.

PASWI COP WEDNESDATE PRAYER HABIT

The Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI) dedicates the Wednesday of each week to prayer, reflection, and sharing the Word of God, known as the Circle of Prayer (COP), which is co-hosted by various PASWI local chapters throughout the Philippines.
 
The personal sharing of experiences with God’s work and various testimonies of miracles influenced viewers to renew their relationship with God. It is amazing witnessing their faith transform, heal, and breathe new life into them—such a powerful testimony of God’s love for His beloved and precious creations. 
 
Sr. Marivic, FMA, lift all social workers in prayer: “You have called us to be instruments of Your love, bringing hope and healing to those who are wounded, forgotten, and in need. As we walk alongside those who suffer, grant us hearts that are patient and kind, ready to listen, to serve, and to love without conditions. When we face challenges, may we be strengthened to bear all things, believe in the dignity of every person, and endure with unwavering hope. Remind us that love never fails, for You are Love itself, and You sustain us always. We entrust our mission into Your hands, knowing that every act of kindness, no matter how small, contributes to Your greater plan of redemption and healing. We ask this in Jesus’ name, who is united in love with the Father and the Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.”

SOLIDARITYSERYE

“We are our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers.” In a trend of nonchalance, LVF is doing its best to be responsive to the needs of others. “[Solidarity] is not a feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of so many people, both near and far. On the contrary, it is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good, that is, to the good of all and of each individual, because we are all ultimately responsible for one another. (St. John Paul II, On Social Concern [Sollicitudo rei Socialis], no. 38)

by mir321

January 2025 News

January is “John-Laury” month for LVF.

It is a month of new beginnings—like opening a new book with blank pages and a clean slate ready for us to fill! January 2025 is filled with extraordinary joy as it is the Jubilee Year of Hope.

JOHNLaury is a special month (“ary” means connected with or belonging) for the Salesians worldwide. We remember the feast of our dear Founder, St. John Bosco, on January 31 and St. Francis of Sales on January 24. At the Laura Vicuna Foundation, we commemorate Laura Vicuna’s Feast on January 22. JOHNLaury is a month of high hopes and fresh beginnings as our 2025 Salesian Strenna sets a direction for us: “Anchored in Hope: Pilgrims with Young People”!

Bursting with energy, we kickstarted the LVF #iamBRAVE Roadtrip in Pampanga! We celebrate Sr. Marivic’s new office as the National President of the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI) with 23,742 members as of December 2024 and composed of 109 local chapters nationwide.

LVF JOHNLaury jumpstart activities were: the leading of the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and the Bagong Pilipinas Hymn during the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) flag raising ceremony;  the training of trainers in Palawan; the monitoring visit for the Laura Vicuna Women Development Training Center (LVWDTC) senior high school program and the array of religious, social and sport activities, reunions, celebrations in all Salesian ambient filling the air with youthful glee and vibrant hope!

LVF CUBAO, QC
YOUTHFEST 2025:”IAMBRAVE ROADTRIP”
SR. MARIVIC ELECTED AS PASWI NATIONAL PRESIDENT!
LVF GIRLS @ DENR FLAG RAISING CEREMONY!
LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN
TRAINING OF TRAINERS
PARADE TO THE PILGRIMAGE CHURCH
LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS CITY, NEG. OCC.
MONITORING VISIT FOR SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM
CAREER GUIDANCE ADVOCACY PROGRAM
INTER-SCHOOL COMPETITION AND BOOK DONATION FROM CIBO
LVF MALIIHAO ATTENDED DON BOSCO TECHNICAL INSTITUTE – VICTORIAS’ 70TH FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY
FEAST OF THE SALESIAN SAINTS
ST. JOHN BOSCO: GIFT TO THE YOUNG!
HAPPY FEAST OF BL. LAURA VICUÑA!
LVF CUBAO WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
SUNDAY CATECHESIS
SOLIDARITYSERYE
PASWI COP

YOUTHFEST 2025:”IAMBRAVE ROADTRIP”

Jan. 18—The MHCS youth have spoken, committing themselves to be BRAVE: Buddies Rejecting Abuse, Violence & Exploitation in today’s SYM Youth Festival at MHCS Mabalacat, Pampanga, in celebration of the 2025 YouthFest.

The LVF #iamBRAVE Roadtrip has reached MHCS Mabalacat, Pampanga, with two hundred seventy-five (275) students. Ms. Felina Narvaez, an FMA-FIL delegate and LVF staff member, shared her meaningful experience with the Salesian Youth Synod in Italy, which focuses on young people’s dreams.

In her welcome message, Sr. Marivic quoted Cardinal Artimé: “Hope in the testimony of mission is to be built between adults and young people from generation to generation: this is the way of the future.” This represents the beating heart that outlines the energies and opportunities for fulfilling and actualizing the “global dream” God inspired in Don Bosco’s evangelization and mission.

Ms. Josielyn Hugo discussed the Protective Behavior, while Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo tackled the Situation of Filipino Children. Students had the opportunity to ask questions, and one of the students asked, particularly about safe, unsafe, and confusing touches, “What if those touches have consent?” Ms. Josielyn Hugo explained that consent is essential, but it must come from someone of the right age and emotional maturity to understand its meaning entirely. She said that children and minors cannot give proper consent; thus, the law protects them from harm and exploitation. She added that even if consent exists, it should be at the right age and situation, like in marriage.

Sr. Marivic highlighted the significance of moral values, explaining that even if consensual, specific actions may be inappropriate for young people. The discussion explored the complexities of touch, especially given the Philippines’ touch-oriented culture, contrasting it with the increasing limitations on physical contact in a globalized world. The session educated students about safety, personal boundaries, and their rights.

Being able to recognize touches is to protect oneself from the possibility of abuse. This is one of the early warning signs, a significant component of protective behavior.

In the afternoon, Ms. Angie Mae Villaren and Ms. Rosea Marie Monsay facilitated the groupwork session. Four questions were prepared for the groups to discuss and answer: (1) What Are The Realities of Today’s Filipino Children; (2) In Your Opinion, What Are The Most Urgent Issues Of Young People That Needs Immediate Attention/Action; (3) What Are Your Dreams For A Better, Abuse-Free Society; (4) What Are Your Commitments In Promoting A Culture Of Protection As BUDDIES?

The participants’ answers showed a common thread: that young people, though tech-savvy and smart, are emotionally sensitive, that the downside of their exposure to social media is that they became less sensitive and less aware of what is happening around them, and that technology detaches them from the present. Furthermore, young people are often victims of cyberbullying.

This reality leads to mental health issues among young people; they see this as the most urgent issue that needs to be addressed. According to them, young people easily snap. They lack grit and resilience when faced with difficulties and challenges. Another troubling issue that they pointed out is teenage pregnancy, for it restricts their opportunities in life and forces them to mature at a young age, stripping them of their childhood.

For an abuse-free community, the young people hope for a safe community where people are not afraid to speak and open up, they long for a community that hears and listens to the young…open-minded…respecting and encouraging regardless of one’s background, grounded in trust, and, importantly, where adults are responsible guides to the young. In the end, the young people have committed to protecting the vulnerable, not engaging in violence or crime, not abusing anyone, and doing their best to promote a no-bullying community.

SR. MARIVIC ELECTED AS PASWI NATIONAL PRESIDENT

On January 25, the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI) elected its new set of officers, with Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA, LVF Managing Director, as its new President. Sr. Marivic also sits as a council member of the National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT), representing the Non-Government Organization. We at LVF are very proud of Sr. Marivic and are inspired by her generous and selfless dedication. She continues to be a beacon of hope and social transformation in our present society. We promise her our full support and prayers. PASWI is an accredited, non-profit professional organization that promotes a dynamic and transformative professional organization towards total human development. It is administered by a Board consisting of 11 directors elected from among themselves as the officers of the Association.

We congratulate all newly elected PASWI National Officers:
𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐕𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭: Dir. John Karlo D. Ballentes, RSW, MMPA
𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲: Dir. Jefran P. Olingay, RSW, MSSW
𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐫: Dir. Cleo Angelo DF. Guevarra, RSW
𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫: Dir. Editha S. Pagulayan, RSW, Ph.D.
𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐑𝐎: Dir. Rodrigo Roble Jr., RSW
𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬: Dir. Jesus S. Far, RSW, MSW
                    Dir. Margie D. Pinton, RSW
                    Dir. Farida T. Mangcaan, RSW, MTSW

Kudos to all Filipino Social Workers

LVF GIRLS @ DENR FLAG RAISING CEREMONY

Jan. 27. The Department of Environment & Natural Resources (DENR) invited the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc., to lead the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and the Bagong Pilipinas Hymn during their Flag-Raising Ceremony earlier today! The girls also had an up-close and personal encounter with the Hon. Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga, DENR Secretary, and Undersecretary Ignatius Loyola Rodriguez! The flag-raising ceremony was hosted by the Office of the Undersecretaries for Special Concerns & Legislative Affairs.

LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN

TRAINING OF TRAINERS
On Jan. 23, the German Sparkassenstiftung for International Cooperation conducted training of trainers on Managing Climate Resilience at the LVF Macarascas Palawan center. Through a Simulation of Managing Climate Resilience, the facilitators trained the LVF staff to become trainers for future training sessions at the farm school. After the session, there was a demonstration in which the staff acted as a trainer and gave the session to the trainees, who are the center’s learners, with the German Sparkassenstiftung trainers as observers. Later, the trainees gave their comments and feedback as evaluation. This training session on Managing Climate Resilience is timely and crucial due to the climate change that the country and the world are experiencing. The staff at the farm school learned the necessary information and insights to strategizing and managing climate resiliency at the same time to effectively facilitate its training.

PARADE TO THE PILGRIMAGE CHURCH

Jan. 12. St. Ezekiel Moreno Parish is one of the Pilgrim churches in Puerto Princesa City, and we, Palaweños, are so blessed for this. The LVF Palawan community joined the faithful in embarking on a pilgrimage from Barangay Bahile to the Parish Church of St. Eziekel Moreno in Barangay Macarascas, followed by the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. Partaking in this pilgrimage felt like a flame; my hope is burning…” The activity calls us to rekindle our faith and renew every individual’s hope, find the reason for Hope in God’s word, and open a spiritual journey that brings people closer to God and one another.

LVWDTC Malihao

The Feast of Laura Vicuna is doubly meaningful as the LVWDTC Malihao closes its year-long silver anniversary celebration! There was a celebration of the Holy Mass presided by Fr. Jimmy Carmona, SDB, followed by a unique short play entitled “Give Your Dreams to Mary.” The play reminded everyone that while the path to one’s dreams is full of challenges, surrendering them to the Lord and seeking the Blessed Mother’s intercession helps keep one on the right path. The talented dancers and actors, guided by Sir Darrenz Caberoy (choreographer) and Sir Kenneth John Cornelio (character rehearsals), gave a memorable performance. In addition, the event marked the start of the inter-school activities, with participating schools from Victorias National High School—Canetown Extension, Abelardo DL Bantug Sr. National High School, and Barangay Estado National High School. The friendly competitions included basketball, volleyball, and board games, fostering teamwork and sportsmanship. It was a day full of faith, fun, and community spirit.

LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS CITY, NEG. OCC.

MONITORING VISIT FOR SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM
Jan. 27. The Laura Vicuña Women Development Training Center (LVWDTC) Malihao in Victorias City hosted the monitoring visit conducted by the Department of Education (DepEd) team to assess the Senior High School Program. The Dep-Ed team included Ma’am Nueva Mangaoang (Education Program Supervisor), Sir Giovanni Wray Estraño (Education Program Specialist II), Ma’am Agnes Peñas (Education Program Supervisor for Araling Panlipunan), and Sir Jerald (Information Technology Officer). The monitoring focused on reviewing the Senior High School programs, monitoring the Voucher Program, and providing feedback to improve teaching practices and student support. This visit ensures that our school is aligned with DepEd’s quality education standards and the effective implementation of the Voucher Program.

CAREER GUIDANCE ADVOCACY PROGRAM

Jan. 24. Victorias National High School hosted a Career Guidance Advocacy Program featuring speakers Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, Ms. Ma. Victoria V. Seluce, and Ms. Maybelle L. Capillanes. The speakers promoted their institution, the Laura Vicuna Foundation Malihao, highlighting its “Sure Job, Sure Future” tagline and the career opportunities it offers. Other invited schools, including the University of St. La Salle – Bacolod and Colegio de San Agustin – Bacolod, also participated, sharing information about their academic programs and career preparation initiatives. The event gave students valuable insights to help them make informed decisions about their future careers.

INTER-SCHOOL COMPETITION AND BOOK DONATION FROM CIBO

Jan 23. The Inter-School Competition continued as part of the Boscolympics celebration. The participating schools, Victorias National High School—Canetown Extension, Abelardo DL Bantug Sr. National High School, and Barangay Estado National High School, along with their respective coaches, were awarded Certificates of Appearance and Certificates of Participation. On the same day, Mr. Jave F. Tabligan, the Area Manager of Visayas-Cibo, visited and generously donated books that will serve as valuable learning resources for students and educators.

LVF MALIHAO ATTENDED DON BOSCO TECHNICAL INSTITUTE – VICTORIAS’ 70TH FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY

Jan. 31. Don Bosco Technical Institute – Victorias celebrated its 70th Founding Anniversary. The event was attended by Sr. Ma. Guia S. Asparen, FMA, Sr. Therese Yvonne L. Jance, FMA, Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, Sr. Josefina D.C. Oliveros, FMA, along with faculty members Mr. Rino N. Barrido, Mr. Darrenz M. Caberoy, Mr. Kenneth John P. Cornelio, Ms. Ma. Victoria V. Seluce, Ms. Ma. Aika F. Tacud, Ms. Ma. Socorro C. Bayles, Ms. Maybelle L. Capillanes, Ms. Ailene M. Ondon, and Glen P. Tonog Sr., along with the students. As part of the celebration, our students presented a performance that beautifully integrated the word “hope,” reflecting the school’s mission to inspire and uplift the community. This anniversary event honored the school’s 70 years of providing quality education and fostering growth, values, and hope for future generations.

FEAST OF THE SALESIAN SAINTS: ST. JOHN BOSCO & BL. LAURA VICUNA

ST. JOHN BOSCO: GIFT TO THE YOUNG!
Jan. 25, Palawan. The learners and the Salesian Sisters received the sacrament of confession in the parish church in preparation for the Feast of St. John Bosco. Having a confession before the feast is a great blessing for several reasons, as it considers emphasis on the sacraments, particularly confession and the Eucharist. It includes Spiritual preparation as St. Joh Bosco was deeply devoted to the salvation of the souls, especially of the young, and often encouraged frequent confession to stay close to God. Confession also brings forgiveness and grace, helping to cleanse the soul of sin and strengthen one’s commitment to holiness.  

Jan. 28. As we celebrate the first day of Triduum for the feast of St. John Bosco, the LVF Macarascas Community had a gift-giving. This gesture reflects Don Bosco’s values and legacy, emphasizing generosity and care for youth. The Salesian Sisters, along with the staff and learners, went to Baruang Elementary School to share some blankets with the students per family and the teacher of the said school. Breads were also given to the students. We are thankful to LVF Board, Mrs. Marissa Concepcion for the blankets; the second day of Triduum, our prayer intentions is focused on the life and work of our patron Saint as being relate to the children who are in at-risk situation which the Salesians continue to work; the third day of Triduum for the feast John Bosco one of the activities during this day is to have a prayer of rosary together with the community and adoration. In the adoration, the community has the reflection activity where everyone will reflect on how the Almighty Father, Mother Mary, and St. John Bosco contributed to the lives of everyone, expected to write an open letter on being grateful of and write what being ask and hope for in the future.  The activity is a time for everyone to appreciate and become thankful for life while strengthening their faith and hope. The community dedicates their time to have a moment of reflection. The center also celebrated the birthday of our beloved Sr. Mel; the learners and staff presented a birthday song and cards.

Jan. 31. On the Feast of St. John Bosco day, the community came together for holy mass and feast celebration at Barangay Buenavista Resort. There are sports and activities for everyone to enjoy. A procession began the program, which was followed by a cheerleading competition. Other activities included games like tug of war, fish tale, and a quiz bee about the life of St. John Bosco. We got together to swim and have lunch. The Champions’ Awards marked the program’s conclusion. The experience of the feast and its celebration made the community extremely happy. Cheers to Don Bosco.

Jan. 30. Cubao. The LVF Cubao Educating Community (EC) joined in celebrating the Holy Eucharist at Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Cubao, commemorating the Feast of St. John Bosco! The girls, Sisters, and staff actively participated in various activities prepared by the girls themselves: sungka, damà, chess, rubberbond, pick up sticks, XOX, jackstones, games of the general, water relay, Maria went to market, Japanese walk, scrabble, volleyball, badminton, and quizbee. Sr. Phebe, LVF Cubao animator reminded everyone that in everything that we do,..if we offer it to God, it is like our currency in heaven.” (Lahat ng gagawin natin…kapag inalay natin yun sa panginoon,..yun ay ang pag iipon natin sa langit!) To be a Salesian is indeed like receiving a unique gift! The family spirit is felt and is evident in the daily life.

HAPPY FEAST OF BL. LAURA VICUÑA

Jan. 22. Annually, the LVF communities, Cubao, Palawan, Malihao, and other FMA communities, celebrate the feast of Bl. Laura Vicuña. Laura Vicuña’s life is a testimony of purity, faith, and courage despite the abuse and advances made to her by her stepfather, the sacrifice she made for the renewal and the salvation of her mother from sin at the age of barely thirteen (13). With Laura’s experience, virtues, and the way she lived her life, she is honored as a patroness of young people, specifically of abused girls. Palawan. The community came together for prayers, mass, and a contemplation of the life of blessed Laura Vicuña. Various games were played, including the fish tale game, quiz bee on the life of Laura, poem reading, and the cook-out activity, in which students prepared food and evaluated it by the judges!  There is also a scheduled late presentation to celebrate Sr. Rose’s birthday.

Cubao, Quezon City. At LVF Cubao, the center for healing and recovery of abused girls prepared an extra unique and meaningful rosary with varied intentions offered to the Bl. Laura Vicuna.  The girls took the celebration to express their heartfelt greetings to the Sisters and staff “for their dedication and service and for being the inspiration of hope in our lives,” said Marj, one of the LVF girls.  In her goodnight talk, Sr. Phebe shared her reflections and wisdom, leaving the community with peace and spiritual renewal, echoing Laura Vicuna’s words: “Do everything to make God known and loved.” This event was a beautiful reminder of the importance of community, prayer, and the example of Laura Vicuna’s faith. The Feast culminated with the Search for Ms. Laura. The group’s representative for the Ms. Laura donned and  featured the colorful dresses that the girls’ made, displaying their inventiveness and sense of art, lo and behold, the girls showcased sustainability and elegance by strutting in sportswear and repurposed outfits. After then, there was a Q&A portion, the candidates were challenged to answer the practical, yet profound questions: a) Ano ang kaharian ng Diyos? Paano mo ito ipapalaganap sa ibang tao?;b) Paano mo maipapakita at matutularan si Bl. Laura Vicuna sa inyong buhay?; c.) Mahalaga pa ba ang kabanalan sa panahon natin ngayon?; d) Paano mo mapapalaganap sa mga kabataan ang langit?

  1. )What is the kingdom of God? How would you spread it to others? b.) How can you show and imitate Bl. Laura Vicuna in your life? c.) Is holiness still important in our day? d.) How would you encourage young people to spread the Good News and heaven?]

And the winning piece was from Nica “Mula noon hanggang ngayon, hindi nagbabago ang pangako ng Diyos sa atin, dahil ang Diyos lamang ang makakaalam kung saan tayo patungo at Siya lamang ang daan papunta sa tamang landas.” (“From then on until now, God’s promise to us has not changed, because only God knows where we are going and He is the only way to the right path.”) 

LVF CUBAO WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

SUNDAY CATECHESIS
The LVF Sunday catechesis continues to form, and children, young people, and parents grow in their relationship with God, foster a stronger relationship with God, and build a foundation for living a Christian life. Sr. Sarah Grace Robas, FMA, and Sr. Phebe Lacse, FMA, teach various aspects of the Christian faith, including the Bible and its teachings and the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, including the Salesian Saints, the sacraments, and Christian values and morality. 

SOLIDARITYSERYE
It is with great joy and a sense of responsibility that the Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. (LVF) continues its solidarityserye efforts! As Pope Francis encourages us to ” pool our offerings so that the community can provide for the needs of the poor,” we have an outpouring of Divine Providence through donations of bread from Breadtalk, RFB buns, and Purple Oven. These breads are distributed to LVF’s Child Protection Clinic communities and LVF homes. It reminds us that we are stronger together and that our collective action can overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

PASWI COP

“Keep our gaze fixed on Jesus”- a powerful phrase beyond mere glance. At the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI)-Circle of Prayer (COP), we trust God’s deliverance despite overwhelming obstacles. Our “joy” lies in the promise of our salvation and the eternal kingdom of God. This COP is a Wednesday prayer habit among social workers. It is a time to thank the days that passed and pray for strength to face the days that will come. Different PASWI Chapters all over the Philippines co-host this COP. We thank Don Honorio Ventura State University for co-hosting the COP for three consecutive Wednesdays, facilitated by PASWI Director Hon. Jaypee Olingay. This begins with a meet and greet and updates on the organizations’ activities by PASWI Executive Director, Ma’am Eva Ponce de Leon and National President, Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA followed by a prayer of peace, healing within and healing of our colleagues, friends, and family members; and the last segment is the reading of the bible passage chosen by the co-host coming from the PASWI Local Chapter then the sharing of personal experiences of the sharers on the Word of God, the goodnight story and closing prayer of Sr. Marivic P. Sta. Ana, FMA. 

by mir321

December 2024 News

“DEC-MERRIMENT” 2024 @ LVF: WRAPPING UP THE YEAR 2024 WITH BLISSFUL, GRATEFUL AND HOPEFUL HEARTS

LVF has reached a total of fifteen thousand five hundred seven (15,507) young people, parents, teachers, and government officials for the year 2024 through its center-based and community-based programs and activities, especially with LVF’s advocacy on the #iamBRAVE campaign from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao!  

The air is filled with the joyous sounds of carols, laughter, and the excited chatter of children! At the heart of December is the celebration of Christmas, when Christians commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ! The magic of December at LVF lies in the spirit of togetherness. Families celebrate, sharing laughter, tales, and cherished traditions. This is visible as LVF celebrates its Annual Parti-han (gift-giving), Christmas Parties, and LVF Malihao’s annual Family Day.

Sr. Marivic was invited as a guest at the Radyo Katipunan, hosted by Fr. Nono, SJ, to discuss the LVF #iamBRAVE initiative, which aired live via Facebook and YouTube!

LVF extends its deepest gratitude to its dynamic and ever-supportive Board of Directors and Trustees: Ms. Bledes Fores-Legarda, Mr. Francisco Dizon, Atty. Eric Puno; Ms. Josie Tan; Mrs. Marissa and Mr. Joey Concepcion; Ms. Mag Sy and family; Mrs. Vicky Cuisia and family.

We are also immensely thankful to our generous donors, benefactors, sponsors, and individuals who consistently lend their support to our mission: the Rotary Club QC, Makati & Batangas; Union Bank; Dr. MJ Torres &Family; Israel Embassy, Jewish Community; Mr.& Mrs. Dino & Pinky Laurena; Atty Uey and Tina Joson; Green Jakobsen; RFM Group of Companies; Mr. Joey Nakpil; Mr. Andy Lok; Mr.Raul & Atty Mean Diccion Recto; Mr. & Mrs. Antony & Carol Thor; Purple Oven, and Breadtalk! We thank our children and the CPC Parent-leaders who helped the foundation grow.

We are blessed to have the Cross Catholic Outreach, Don Bosco Mondo-Germany, and Jugend Eine Welt, who continue to support LVF’s work protecting and empowering thousands of young people in the Philippines through project funds.

And above all, we give praise and glory to God for this fruitful year! Indeed, this is God’s project!

LVF CUBAO, QC

LVF ANNUAL PARTI-HAN 2024: A HEARTWARMING CELEBRATION OF HOPE & SOLIDARITY
LVF BOARD CELEBRATES THE CHRISTMAS SEASON WITH THE GIRLS IN CUBAO, QC!
PUNO & PUNO LAW CHRISTMAS PARTY AT LVF
A DAY OF FUN AND CELEBRATION AT FIESTA CARNIVAL WITH MS. BLEDES FORES!
LAST ANGEL GIFT-GIVING BY ROTARY CLUB OF MAKATI WITH MR. DIZON!
LVF AT THE JESUIT HOUR, RADYO KATIPUNAN!
EPISCOPAL ORDINATION AND CANONICAL POSSESSION OF BISHOP ELIAS AYUBAN, JR!
LIGHTING THE CANDLES OF ADVENT
HAPPY FEAST OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION!

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

LEARNERS ACHIEVEMENT TEST!
A FAMILY THAT PLAYS TOGETHER STAYS TOGETHER!
ARRIVAL OF SR. CARMELA AS MEMBER OF LVF PALAWAN COMMUNITY!
CHRISTMAS SERENADE TO BISHOP SOCRATES!
GRADUATION CEREMONY
CELEBRATING THE ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING
APPRECIATION PROGRAM FOR THE VIDES VOLUNTEER
THANKSGIVING TO THE VOLUNTEERS OF WESTERN PHILIPPINES UNIVERSITY
WELCOME VOLUNTEERS OF VICARIATE TAYTAY
SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL VISIT
PASWI EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR IS IN LVF, MACARASCAS!
CHRISTMAS IN OUR ARTS: VISIT OF ANTONIO BAUTISTA LADIES TO LVC PALAWAN
A CHRISTMAS CAROLING EVENT

LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS CITY

STUDENTS & TEACHERS ADVENT RECOLLECTION
CITY SCHOLARS’ CHRISTMAS PARTY
STUDENT’S CHRISTMAS PARTY AND FAMILY DAY
ANNUAL CHRISTMAS GIFT-GIVING

LVF ANNUAL PARTI-HAN 2024: A HEARTWARMING CELEBRATION OF HOPE & SOLIDARITY

Parti-han is a Hiligaynon dialect that translates as “to divide, to share, to impart.” It could also mean “to celebrate, to party, or to rejoice.” From this, we can say that LVF’s Annual Parti-han is a gesture of love and brings Christ’s light closer to the people, especially to the kids with this year’s theme, “Liwanag ng Pag-asa, Handog ng PASKO!” (“Light of Hope, A Christmas Gift!”)

Every December, LVF holds the Annual Parti-han －an event that brings joy and happiness to many. This year’s theme, “Liwanag ng Pag-Asa, Handog ng Pasko” (The Light of Hope, A Christmas Gift), perfectly captured the season’s spirit. Christmas packs were distributed by CPC areas which include Hillcrest, Pinagkaisahan, Marikina, Taguig, and Sta. Mesa, Culiat, Botocan,and Cavite.  A heartfelt thanks to Mrs. Marissa Concepcion for the 2,000 blankets,  RFM Corporation for donating kettle corn, Choco Moo drink, and elbow macaroni pasta. LVF also purchased rice, calendars, noodles, canned goods, and spaghetti with sauce for their Christmas noche buena. We also thank Ms. Mel Centeno for the slippers she donated for the kids. The bright smiles and sincere thank-you from the children upon receiving the gift packs are heartwarming gifts to us!

This event reminded us that Christmas is a season of generosity, love, and sharing. Through these simple acts of kindness, we spread the message of hope to all.

LVF is deeply grateful to our donors who made this gift-giving possible. Your continued support significantly brightens the lives of those in need, especially during the holiday season. We could not have done it without your generosity, and we look forward to continuing this journey of giving and community-building in the coming year.

LVF TRUSTEES CELEBRATE THE CHRISTMAS SEASON WITH LVF KIDS

ATTY ERIC PUNO & PUNO LAW OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY AT LVF
Dec. 16. The Puno Law Office Christmas Party is the most anticipated event by the LVF children. Atty. Eric Puno, one of LVF’s Board of Directors, along with his senior partners, lawyers, and administrative staff, spent an afternoon with the LVF children from Sta. Mesa and Cubao, Quezon City. It was a day jampacked with fun, encounters, games, agape, and gift-giving facilitated by their lawyers and staff!  The children expressed gratitude through their Christmas carols, dances, drums and lyre, and band exhibitions. Mayumi, LVF 13-year-old girl expressed, “Dahil sa pagbisita at pagtulong ninyo sa amin, mas lalong umigting ang pag-asa ko na maaabot ko ang aking mga pangarap. Na inspire ako na tumulong din sa iba.” (Your presence has given me hope that I may reach my dreams and motivated me to help others as well.)

A DAY AT FIESTA CARNIVAL WITH MS. MERCEDES FORES-LEGARDA

December also brought another fantastic event, where the LVF girls and children from Sta. Mesa was treated to an exciting day at Fiesta Carnival! This special event was made possible by Ms. Mercedes “Bledes” Fores-Legarda, a dedicated member of LVF’s Board of Directors, who sponsored the fun-filled outing. LVF’s 11-year-old Nhickle exclaimed “Masaya makipaglaro sa ibang bata na kahit hind imo kakilala, nakakalaro mo sila…mapapasigaw ka sa tuwa talaga lalo na sa mga rides!” (“It’s fun to play with other kids, even if you don’t know them, you can play with them…it really makes you scream with joy especially with the rides!”) The day was about entertainment, strengthening community bonds, and highlighting the importance of kindness. It was a beautiful reminder of the power of giving and the joy of sharing happy moments with others. “Thank you, Ma’am Bledes, sa oportunidad na makapag-enjoy at sumaya kaming mga Kabataan…naipasyal kami sa lugar na ang saya para sa mga bata. Nagpapasalamat kami ng lubos sa inyong kabutihan! God bless!” Nhickie added. (“Thank you, Ma’am Bledes, for this opportunity of fun and enjoyment…we were able to visit a place that is fun for children. We are very grateful for your kindness! God bless!”)

THE ROTARY CLUB OF MAKATI’S GIFT-GIVING PROJECT WITH MR. FRANCISCO DIZON

Dec. 19. The Rotary Club of Makati’s annual project, Last Angel Gift-Giving, was a meaningful encounter with the girls. Mr. Francisco Dizon, one of LVF’s Board of Directors and a member of Rotary Club Makati, made this possible. Mr. Keith A.D Harrison, President of Rotary Club Makati shared the humble beginnings of this project. Jho was thankful for the opportunity to hear such moving story “Maraming salamat…sa mensaheng inyong iniwan sa amin, lalo na ang humble beginnings ng inyong organisasyon…nakaka inspire ang kwento ng Last Angel kasi nagbahagi sya ng regalo sa tao kahit na hindi nya ito kilala…Tunay ngang ang pagbabahagi sa ating kapwa ay hindi nalilimit sa kakilala lamang.” (Thank you very much…for the message you left us, especially the humble beginnings of your organization…the story of the Last Angel is inspiring because (s)he shared a gift with people even though (s)he did not know him…truly sharing is not limited to whom we only know.”) Phine was grateful for the gifts they received from the visitors “Maraming salamat po sa rubber shoes na inyong ibinahagi sa amin. Napakalaking bagay nito para sa amin dahil ito ay aming magagamit lalo na sa mga espesyal na okasyon….para na rin pong kasama naming kayo sa mga hakbang na gagawin namin sa tuwing suot ang mga sapatos na ito.”  (Thank you very much for the rubber shoes you gifted us! They mean a lot to us because we can use them, especially on special occasions. You are with us every step when wearing these shoes.)

LVF AT THE JESUIT HOUR, RADYO KATIPUNAN

Dec. 03. Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc., through Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, FMA, LVF Managing Director, was invited to the Jesuit Hour at Radyo Katipunan 87.9 FM- the campus and community FM radio station of the Ateneo de Manila University community and nearby areas, aired via Facebook live simulcasted in their YouTube channel. This is after the LVF #iamBRVAVE National Convention last November 15, held in Negros Occidental, which gathered two thousand (2, 000) young people from all over the Philippines. Fr. Nono Alfonso, SJ, host of the program, commended LVF’s ministry on child protection: “This is a beautiful ministry for the youth…who are the future of our church and the world…” When Sr. Marivic cited facts and data on child abuse in the Philippines, Fr. Nono was astounded by the severity of the problems facing Filipino Children.  He was stunned to know that the Philippines has become a hotspot, a hub of Online Sexual Abuse & Exploitation of Children (OSAEC), and a distributor of Child Sexual Abuse & Exploitation Materials (CSAEM). In her last appeal to the viewers, Sr. Marivic reiterated that the problem of child protection that we face today is real, and what makes it worse is that often, the abuse starts in the family. She strongly encouraged everyone to “…STAND UP, whether old, young, or a child; WE HAVE TO STAND UP AND SPEAK UP AND TOGETHER WE CAN BE BRAVE: BEAT AND END ABUSE, TRAFFICKING, AND EXPLOITATION. Ms. Carol Thor, an LVF Volunteer, and a parent, appealed to all parents to ensure that ALL CHILDREN ARE PROTECTED INSIDE THE HOME AS WELL AS OUTSIDE…be engaged in what their children are doing. And for the young people to know and be assured that there is always someone listening, someone who wants and can help them.

DIOCESE OF CUBAO NEW BISHOP

Dec. 03. The Diocese of Cubao welcomes a new spiritual leader with the appointment of Bishop-Elect Fr. Elias Ayuban Jr., CMF, who was officially named by Pope Francis as the successor to the Most Rev. Honesto F. Ongtioco, D.D. coinciding with the Feast of St. Francis Xavier, Patron of Missionaries. Bishop Honesto Ongtioco called on the faithful to extend a warm and wholehearted welcome to the new Bishop, “I humbly ask all the faithful of our diocese to extend a warm and wholehearted welcome to our new Bishop. Let us support him with our prayers and cooperation as he begins his pastoral ministry with us.”  LVF Cubao joins the Diocese of Cubao for the episcopal ordination and canonical possession of His Excellency Bishop Elias Ayuban, JR., CMF, JCD.

LIGHTING THE CANDLES OF ADVENT

Lighting the candles of Advent each week serves as a reminder to prepare one’s heart and mind for Christmas. It encourages reflection on the season’s true meaning: the birth of Jesus Christ and the message of salvation and redemption He brings. The lighting of candles during Advent has significant symbolic meaning in Christian traditions: Hope: The first candle, often purple, represents hope. It symbolizes the anticipation and longing for the coming of Christ, the Messiah, and the hope He brings to the world. Peace: The second candle often signifies peace. It reflects the peace that Christ brings to the world and the preparation for His arrival. Joy: The third candle, usually pink, represents joy. It marks a shift in the tone of Advent from penitential reflection to joyful anticipation of Christ’s birth.; Love: The fourth candle symbolizes love, emphasizing the love of God for humanity and the love that Christians should share with others.

FEAST OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION

Dec. 09. LVF sang at the Holy Mass for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception! Our Blessed Mother is recognized and celebrated, especially on Dec. 8, 2024, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. Since Dec. 8 falls on a Sunday, and because all Sundays take precedence, this year’s Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception will be celebrated on Monday. Dec. 9. “Born without Original Sin, and chosen by God to bear His only Son, Mary plays an essential role in Christmas and our salvation,” Bishop Frank J. Dewane said in a letter to the faithful. “Her Motherhood made possible a pathway to Heaven for all the faithful, and She still intercedes on our behalf, drawing the faithful closer to Jesus and God through prayer.”

FROM LVF ORATORY TO TEACHING OUR ORATORY

We congratulate LVF Staff Member Samantha Lemi Lavado on passing the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) held in September 2024. Ms. Lavado, an active member of the LVF oratory from Judge Jiminez, currently imparts her knowledge and skills to our girls at Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. Ms. Sam expressed how blest and thankful she is to Sr. Marivic, FMA, and the Sisters for their “guidance, prayers, and support” in all her preparations for the board examination.

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

LEARNERS ACHIEVEMENT TEST

Dec. 27-30. The Year levels 8, 9, 10, and 11 took their Achievement Tests administered by the faculty of the University of Sto. Tomas (UST) -Angelicum under the Re-entry Education Agenda for the Poor (REAP) Program. The REAP Program is an offshoot of the Angelicum’s Home Study Program. It caters to poor, out-of-school children, youth, and even adults. These tests are a significant milestone in our students’ academic journeys, providing an opportunity to assess their progress, knowledge, and skills learned throughout the year. The students have been preparing diligently for this. The achievement tests will serve as a valuable tool in identifying areas of strength and opportunities for improvement. This will allow them to be accelerated to next year’s level once they finish their modules and pass their tests. This partnership between LVF and UST Angelicum has played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth organization and execution of these assessment examinations. The guidance and resources provided by UST Angelicum have been instrumental in helping our students reach their full potential, and we sincerely appreciate their commitment to our learners’ educational growth.

A FAMILY THAT PLAYS TOGETHER STAYS TOGETHER

The LVF Macarascas conducted the Annual Family Day to strengthen the family relationship. Ultimately, Family Day serves as a reminder of the importance of family and its vital role in our lives. Family Day is not just a day off from work or school; it is an investment in the well-being of individuals, families, and society. By prioritizing family time, we can create stronger, happier, more resilient families and build a more harmonious and supportive community. It encourages us to prioritize our relationships with loved ones and to create a strong foundation for future generations. The Filipino family is the foundation of the nation.

ARRIVAL OF SR. CARMELA AS MEMBER OF LVF PALAWAN COMMUNITY

Dec. 10. We welcome Sr. Carmela Barbosa, FMA, to Macarascas, Palawan!  Sr. Lyn Grace transferred to Taytay, Palawan, where she will be an animator.  We are grateful and excited for Sr. Carmela’s arrival as one of the new members accompanying us on this journey.  Her presence brings a sense of hope and optimism for the future of the Laura Vicuña Foundation in Palawan. We are confident that Sr. Carmela’s guidance, dedication, and compassion will significantly shape the foundation’s future and continue its mission to serve the community. We look forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly have on the learners and the community, and we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead with her leadership. 

CHRISTMAS SERENADE TO BISHOP SOCRATES

Dec. 20. Laura Vicuña Palawan’s learners had the honor and privilege of serenading Bishop Socrates Mesiona with a heartfelt Christmas medley. The occasion was filled with joy and festive spirit as the group gathered to express their gratitude and good wishes to the bishop to celebrate Christmas. As the carols filled the room, there was deep reverence and joy. Bishop Socrates Mesiona, visibly moved by the performance, expressed his gratitude for the thoughtful and beautiful tribute. It was a moment that highlighted the strong bond between the community and the Church, a bond built on faith, love, and shared values. 

GRADUATION CEREMONY

The Organic Agriculture Production NCII graduation ceremony was held at the Bishop Residence AVT Mission Center in St. Joseph De Worker Village, Taytay, Palawan. A distinguished group of guests attended the event, each significantly supporting the learners and the institution’s mission. Among those present was Bishop Pabillo of Taytay, Palawan, who graced the occasion with his presence and offered encouragement and inspiration to the graduates as they embarked on the next chapter of their lives. A representative from the Office of the Governor honored the ceremony, extending his congratulations and best wishes to the graduates on behalf of the provincial government. Mayor Christian Rodriguez of Taytay, Palawan, also attended the event, sharing his support for the learners’ educational achievements and the importance of community collaboration in fostering growth and development.

CELEBRATING THE ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING

Dec. 18. The community gathered to celebrate the annual Christmas Tree Lighting in North-West Palawan, a cherished event that marked the beginning of the holiday season for many. The occasion was filled with excitement, joy, and the warmth of togetherness as families, friends, and neighbors came together to witness the beautiful lighting of the Christmas tree, which sparkled brightly in the night sky, symbolizing hope, love, and unity. The learners and community members were invited to showcase their talents through a simple yet heartfelt presentation during the festivities. The highlight of their participation was the Christmas caroling, where they sang traditional holiday songs that brought a sense of magic and cheer to everyone present. Their performance beautifully showcased their voices and captured the essence of the season – a time for sharing joy and goodwill. 

APPRECIATION PROGRAM FOR THE VIDES VOLUNTEER

Dec. 19. We express our heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Jacinda Held, a dedicated VIDES American volunteer, for the incredible months she spent with us. Her time and contributions have been invaluable, and we are deeply thankful for her commitment, hard work, and positive impact on both the learners and the community. To honor her service and bid her a fond farewell, we organized a heartfelt despedida program. This special occasion was filled with emotions as we celebrated Jacinda’s time with us. The program included heartfelt speeches, songs, and performances, which reflected our gratitude and admiration for her. The learners, who were deeply touched by her kindness and dedication, took the opportunity to express their appreciation through small tokens of thanks and personal messages.

THANKSGIVING TO THE VOLUNTEERS OF WESTERN PHILIPPINES UNIVERSITY

Dec. 6. The LVF Macarascas would like to extend our heartfelt Merry Christmas wishes to the dedicated volunteers from Western Palawan University (WPU), who have been a tremendous help to the learners. Their unwavering patience and commitment to teaching, particularly in mathematics, have significantly impacted the students’ learning journeys. We are grateful for their continuous support and guidance; the learners have improved their academic skills and deepened their appreciation for the subject. The volunteers’ efforts have made a difference; we are incredibly grateful for their generosity and dedication. As we celebrate this joyful season, we want to acknowledge their hard work and express gratitude for their positive influence on the students’ lives.

WELCOME VOLUNTEERS OF VICARIATE TAYTAY

Dec. 5. French couple Kevin and Mathilde, both volunteers for the Vicariate of Taytay in Palawan, with Sr. Cathy Urgello, FMA, took some time out of their busy schedules to visit the Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. in Barangay Macarascas, Puerto Princesa City. During their visit, the learners at the Foundation warmly welcomed them with a simple yet heartfelt presentation, showcasing their various talents. The couple was deeply moved by the gesture and expressed their happiness and gratitude for the opportunity to connect with the students. It was a meaningful experience for them, as they witnessed firsthand the dedication and creativity of the learners. Filipinos are indeed a country of welcoming and smiling people.

SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL VISIT

Dec. 7. The visit from Soroptimist International of Palawan made the occasion even more special and valuable for the learners. Their presence brought a sense of encouragement and support, showing the students that they were not alone in their educational journey. The members of Soroptimist International took the time to engage with the learners, share their experiences, and provide words of inspiration. Their involvement made the day more meaningful and highlighted the importance of community support in the lives of young people. Their visit deeply touched the learners and undoubtedly left a lasting impression on everyone involved. This visit reminded me of how powerful it can be when individuals and organizations unite to uplift and empower others, especially in education. Indeed, it takes a village to raise a child.

PASWI EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR IS IN LVF, MACARASCAS

Dec. 9. We extend a heartfelt Merry Christmas to Mam Eva Ponce De Leon, the Executive Director of the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Incorporated (PASWI). Her visit was even more special as she generously shared her time with the learners, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration. Mam Eva brought thoughtful gifts for the students and organized fun and engaging activities, including games that brought smiles and laughter to everyone involved. Her presence truly made the day brighter and more memorable for the learners. Her kindness and willingness to connect with the students left a lasting impression, and her visit was a wonderful reminder of the importance of giving and spreading happiness during the Christmas season.

CHRISTMAS IN OUR ARTS: VISIT OF ANTONIO BAUTISTA LADIES TO LVC PALAWAN

Dec. 11. The Antonio Bautista Ladies brought joy and excitement to the students by generously sharing thoughtful gifts, which brought smiles and gratitude to everyone. Their time teaching the learners the beautiful art of creativity made their visit even more special. The art lesson, which became the highlight of their visit, allowed the students to explore their creativity and express themselves in new and exciting ways. Under the guidance of the Antonio Bautista Ladies and Fr. Echo, the learners were allowed to learn new artistic skills and encouraged to embrace their talents and imagination. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm as the students eagerly participated in the art activities, each contributing their unique perspective, especially on how to express the meaning of Christmas in drawing. This visit was a wonderful reminder of the power of giving, not only through material gifts but also through sharing knowledge, skills, and encouragement. The learners were deeply inspired by the generosity and creativity of the Antonio Bautista Ladies and Fr. Echo. It was a beautiful way to celebrate Christmas, bringing joy and learning to the students’ hearts. 

A CHRISTMAS CAROLING EVENT

Dec. 16-17. The caroling days at San Ezekiel Parish and the chapels in Salvacion and Bahile were more than just fundraising events. These caroling events demonstrated community spirit and faith, with parishioners coming together to spread holiday cheer through song. As the voices of the carolers filled the air, they not only brought joy and warmth to the hearts of those who heard them but also contributed to a meaningful cause. It was a wonderful example of how tradition, faith, and charity can come together to make a meaningful impact. The community came together in joy, faith, and solidarity, and the money raised will support the Jubilee Cross’s continued celebration. Everyone who took part felt the spirit of giving during this Christmas season. 

LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS CITY

STUDENT’S & TEACHERS ADVENT RECOLLECTION
Dec. 3. The students of Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. Malihao gathered for an Advent Recollection at the School Multi-Purpose Hall, led by Fr. Jimmy Carmona, SDB, Fr. Norma Broderick T. Segovia, SDB, and Fr. Reynante Sabelita, SDB. Fr. Reynante’s talk focused on the 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope, highlighting the Strenna theme, “Anchored in Hope: Pilgrims with Young People.” He emphasized the Salesian mission of walking alongside young people, with hope as their anchor in life’s journey. Fr. Reynante shared Pope Francis’s words: “We must fan the flame of hope that has been given us and help everyone to gain new strength and certainty by looking to the future with an open spirit, a trusting heart, and a far-sighted vision.” His reflections inspired students to stay anchored in hope and support one another as pilgrims of hope. The recollection ended with the sacrament of confession, offering the students spiritual renewal and peace. The experience left them with a deep sense of purpose, ready to embrace the Jubilee Year with hope, faith, and compassion.  
 
Dec. 9. The faculty, staff, and support personnel of the Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. Malihao attended an Advent Recollection at the school’s AVR, led by Fr. Reynante Sabelita, SDB. The recollection began with an energizer to engage the participants, followed by Fr. Sabelita’s talk on the 2025 Strenna theme, “Pilgrims of Hope,” in preparation for the Jubilee Year of Hope. He explained the significance of the four Advent candles—hope, peace, joy, and love—and encouraged reflection on these themes. The session included a time for sharing, during which participants expressed their thoughts and experiences. This was followed by confession for spiritual renewal. The event concluded with a communal lunch, fostering fellowship and unity among the participants. It was a spiritually enriching experience that strengthened the participants’ faith and sense of community as they prepared for the Advent season.

CITY SCHOLARS’ CHRISTMAS PARTY

Dec. 13. The Victorias City scholars celebrated their Christmas party at the Victorias City Coliseum, creating a memorable and festive atmosphere. The event featured the distribution of groceries and food, spreading joy and holiday cheer among the scholars. Ms. Ma Aika F. Tacud, a former city scholar, shared her inspiring life experiences, reflecting on how the scholarship had been pivotal in supporting her academic journey. The celebration also featured a lively dance contest showcasing scholars’ talents and creativity. Though they won the consolation prize of 1,000 pesos, the scholars demonstrated their generosity by donating the prize money to the school. Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez and other city officials attended the event, highlighting the importance of the scholarship program in uplifting the education of young people in Victorias City.

STUDENT’S CHRISTMAS PARTY AND FAMILY DAY

Dec. 19. The Laura Vicuna Foundation Malihao celebrated its students’ Christmas Party and Family Day at the school’s Multi-Purpose Hall. The event began with a heartfelt Eucharistic Mass, presided over by Fr. Reynante Sabelita, SDB, setting a reflective tone for the celebration. Following the mass, the program unfolded with exciting performances by senior high and TVET students showcasing their talents. The teachers and the sisters also joined in the fun with their dance performances, adding to the festive atmosphere. The event brought great joy to the students and their parents, who participated in various games and won prizes. A highlight of the celebration was the “Raffle for a Cause,” where three lucky winners took home a piglet, emphasizing the spirit of giving. After the program, the students and their families shared a delightful lunch, fostering community and togetherness. Overall, the event was a huge success, bringing smiles and creating lasting memories for everyone involved. 

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS GIFT-GIVING

December 22, 2024 – A heartwarming Christmas celebration occurred at the Laura Vicuna Women Development & Training Center, bringing together 652 Oratorians, Student Volunteer Catechists, benefactors, sponsors, Salesian Cooperators, teachers, and Sisters. The event began with a unique prayer service, followed by welcoming remarks from Sr. Ma. Guia Asparen, FMA oratory in charge. This celebration was a special occasion for the indigent children, youth, and mothers from nearby communities who regularly attend the Sunday Oratory centers in Malihao, Victorias. These communities actively participate in various activities such as evangelization, games, faith formation, and psychosocial and human development. The much-anticipated annual Christmas gift-giving took place, where 600 packs of rice, spaghetti, canned goods, noodles, apples, and clothes were distributed. Participants also enjoyed a fun-filled day with games, hotdog sandwiches, soft drinks, and ice cream, all while celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. The event was made possible through the generous sponsorship and support of numerous benefactors and families. Special thanks to Mr. Francisco Dizon and his family for the T-shirts and backpacks given to the oratorians and the students.

by mir321

November 2024 News

LVF NOVEMBEYOND THE BARRIERS: EMPOWERING OUR YOUTH FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

November is a month beyond barriers. It is a month of advocacy campaigns, special awareness days, and observances to celebrate children and young people and highlight their indivisible rights for survival, protection, development, and participation.

Whilst other countries celebrate Thanksgiving, LVF hosted a National Convention on #iamBRAVE (Buddies Reject Abuse, Violence, Trafficking, and Exploitation) joined by two thousand 2, 000 brave young students from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao held at the Coliseum of Victorias City, Negros Occidental. This national convention is a timely effort to counteract the critical issue that the country faces on child protection. This also coincides with the country’s National Children’s Month celebration and the start of the 18-day campaign to end violence against women and children.

November provides an opportunity for LVF Past Pupils (trainees and residents) to come home. It is a heartfelt gathering at LVF of those whose lives were touched and formed by the Salesians Sisters.

LVF is overcoming most, if not all, factors inhibiting the growth of our young people. We will do everything to empower them for a sustainable future

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

LVF #iamBRAVE NATIONAL CONVENTION 2024
TOGETHER, WE ARE BRAVE!
2024 LVF PAST PUPIL’S HOMECOMING: KWENTUHAN TAYO, NA PUNO NG PAG-ASA!
LVF JOINS THE 18-DAY CAMPAIGN TO END VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN!
LVF GIRLS LEAD THE SINGING OF THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL ANTHEM!
MAINSTREAMING CHILDREN’S AGENDA WITH ACADEME & PRACTITIONERS OF SOCIAL WORK
DOKYUBATA NATIONAL AWARDING 2024
NATIONAL COMMITTEE ON CHILD AND YOUTH PARTICIPATION (NCCYP) FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLANNING WORKSHOP
LVF WAS AWARDED ONE OF THE OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP AWARDS!
PRAYER FOR OUR DECEASED SISTERS


LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

TRAINING INDUCTION PROGRAM FOR ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION NC II
 ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRAINING SESSION
LET’S TALK ABOUT HEALTH & WELL-BEING
NATIONAL CHILDREN’S MONTH 2024
TWO-DAY EVALUATION WITN TECHNICAL VOCATIONAL INSTITUTION OF MOTHER MORANO EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION 
DSWD AUDIT VISIT
SR. LYN’S INSTALLATION AS THE FIRST ANIMATOR OF TAYTAY, PALAWAN!

LVF MALIHAO, NEG. OCC.

DON BOSCO MONDO PROJECT RESEARCH TEAM AUDIT/ VISIT
ISO ORIENTATION
LEADERS AND ANIMATORS’ FORMATION 2024
LVF BOARD MEETING, GCASH & TIKTOK MASTERCLASS WORKSHOP
NEPHILA WEB TECHNOLOGY, INC SITE VISIT
FIRST AID AND BASIC LIFE SUPPORT TRAINING

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
CATECHESIS
SOLIDARITYSERYE
PASWI COP

LVF #iamBRAVE NATIONAL CONVENTION 2024

On 15 November 2024, about two thousand young people from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao in the Philippines gathered at the Coliseum of Victories City, in Negros West, to participate in the National Convention I AM BRAVE organized by the Laura Vicuña Foundation of St. Mary Mazzarello Province (FIL) on the theme of child protection in the Philippines, on the occasion of the National Month of Childhood.

Choosing to be brave means choosing to support change. At its root, courage affirms a fundamental truth: safety is not a privilege but a human right. This is the spirit that animated the I AM BRAVE Convention.

Several studies from 2022 confirm that almost half a million Philippine children have been trafficked to produce sexual exploitation material (CSEM), putting the country at the crossroads of child pornography. The country ranks 7th globally in modern slavery, and in 2018, Palawan was labeled as a ‘back way’ to Malaysia for human trafficking. In addition, bullying in public schools has reached alarming levels, with the Philippines at the top of the PISA 2018 ranking.

The Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF), for 30 years, has undertaken significant projects to address these critical situations with the “Child Protection Clinic on Wheels” to support the prevention of child abuse and trafficking in Luzon and the Visayas archipelago. Sister Maria Victoria Santa Ana, FMA, Managing Director of the LVF, explained that the initiative aims to unite and empower young people to become advocates for protecting human dignity for themselves and their peers against all forms of abuse.

The speakers shared valuable content from different points of view, providing a complete key to reading the problem and the steps necessary to fight it. Fr. Marvin Labasan, according to the theological perspective, stressed the sacred responsibility of protecting the dignity of a person made in the image and likeness of God. From a human rights perspective, Sister Sarah Garcia, FMA, starting with her advocacy work in Geneva, highlighted the global imperative to safeguard human dignity. Karl Ballentes, from a gender perspective, emphasized the importance of equity and inclusion in building stronger communities. Andrea Muhlach, from a legal perspective, provided participants with knowledge of justice, privacy law, and legal remedies for abuse victims. Social worker Emy India shared her knowledge of local governance, while Joy Hugo explained the LVF’s mission and programs.

This extraordinary event marked the launch of the I AM BRAVE movement – in the presence of the LVF Board of Directors – Francisco Dizon; Ms. Vicky Cuisia and her husband, Ambassador Jose Cuisia; Mr. Eric and Ms. Bea Puno; Mr. Bledes Fores Legarda; Sister Teresita Padron and Sister Marivic P. Sta—Ana, FMA – to join nationally to promote a more respectful, welcoming, and safe world.

Sofia de Guzman explained how the #iamBRAVE movement can integrate with non-governmental organizations working for children and youth. A 2-minute video teaser, part of the program, allowed us to deepen the reality with which some young people are measured today.

Sr. Maria Victoria said that this national conference is just the beginning. The LVF has launched provincial and regional initiatives that will become national, and she hopes this initiative will reach other parts of the world.

Participants committed to becoming “Buddies” engaged allies who inspire and support the movement’s mission. With their voices, these young leaders bring hope and resilience, ensuring that the fight against exploitation and abuse will continue beyond this event.

Why the Buddies? Sister Maria Victoria replied, “Confessions of abuse usually take place with close friends, so we are mobilizing peers or friends to fight against abuse, violence, and exploitation, including trafficking.”

The round table, which included student leaders representing Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, was an important moment of the day. With their ideals and enthusiasm, they helped to outline feasible ways of supporting the movement’s goals.

Their words reaffirmed the shared responsibility to combat abuse, violence, and exploitation by drawing up a Manifesto:
“We, children, and young people participating in the IamBRAVE National Congress believe that we have the right to live safely and be protected from all forms of abuse and exploitation. We can help others through support and encouragement, and only we can help to remedy this problem.

We commit ourselves to uphold being brave (courageous) in words and through our actions, a living testimony that we support the spirit of courage in our community and engage ourselves in our context and society.

We will be companions who do not just listen but speak for those who cannot speak for themselves.

We are committed to formation and education so that we are equipped with the knowledge, disposition, and skills necessary to help our community.

We will be courageous in defending ourselves, others, and our community.”

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

TOGETHER, WE ARE BRAVE!
Four hundred eighty-one (481) students actively participated in the LVF #iamBRAVE session! From Iloilo down to Negros Occidental, our #iamBRAVE campaign is reaching places far and wide! Small they may seem, but a total of fifty-five (55) Grade 7 students of Tortosa Elementary School, Manapla, Negros Occidental; two hundred eighty (280) students from Holy Family High School in Bacolod City; and one hundred forty-six (146) students of St. Francis Of Assisi School Silay City facilitated by LVF Social Workers Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo, Ms. Josielyn Hugo, and Ms. Angie Mae Villaren. They commit to respecting others and being kind to one another.


When we protect our friends, we contribute to a safer and more supportive environment for everyone. We stand against bullying, discrimination, and any form of harm that threatens their physical or emotional well-being. Protecting our peers cultivates a strong sense of community. It reinforces the understanding that we are all interconnected and responsible for each other’s well-being. This shared responsibility strengthens social bonds and creates a more cohesive and supportive society. Protecting our friends teaches us to advocate for what is right, even when difficult. Together, #WeAreBRAVE.

2024 LVF PAST PUPIL’S HOMECOMING: KWENTUHAN TAYO, NA PUNO NG PAG-ASA!

Nov. 26. Around fifty (50) LVF Past Pupils gathered to celebrate the 34th Annual Homecoming. As members of the Salesian community, we cherish the term “Homecoming” to emphasize our ongoing connection to our coming home, where our dreams became more apparent, and to the people who became our kin. The LVF Past Pupils from Malihao, Palawan, and Sta join this annual celebration. Mesa, as they come together in our main building for this meaningful event. This homecoming is doubly meaningful for this coincides with our celebration of Christ the King Sunday, opening our activities with a holy mass led by Fr. Rey Paglinawan, who bestowed blessings upon all present. Sr. Ma. Victoria Sta. Ana, FMA, our devoted Managing Director, delivered an inspiring welcome message. She also highlighted the launch of the “#iamBRAVE” initiative this November in Negros, encouraging all past pupils to embrace bravery in their lives. In addition, Ms. Felina, the TVET adviser, and the LVF staff excitedly facilitated engaging games and raffles, ensuring a festive atmosphere for everyone. Join us as we celebrate our shared journey and the lasting impact of our community. Memories resurface in the familiar embrace of old surroundings – vivid snapshots of childhood laughter and family’s enduring love. In the shared laughter and heartfelt conversations, we find a renewed sense of belonging, reaffirming the bonds that tie us to others.  

LVF JOINS THE 18-DAY CAMPAIGN TO END VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN.

According to the Global Gender Gap 2024 Insight Report by the World Economic Forum (WEF), it will take 134 years to achieve full gender parity. This staggering number translates to five generations beyond the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5 target of achieving gender equality and empowerment of all women and girls (pcw.gov.ph).

LVF GIRLS LEAD THE SINGING OF THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL ANTHEM

Nov. 28. LVF at the National Children’s Month Culmination at SM North with our girls singing the Philippine National Anthem. National Children’s Month is a significant event in the Philippines that underscores the importance of investing in children. LVF also put up a booth to teach the participants the art of quilling, card making, and crocheting. Everyone became engrossed in weaving yarn threads for their crochet. Many were more inclined to make Christmas, happily showing their finished products. By celebrating this month, the country reaffirms its commitment to creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for all children, ensuring they can grow, learn, and thrive.  

MAINSTREAMING CHILDREN’S AGENDA WITH ACADEME & PRACTITIONERS OF SOCIAL WORK 

Nov. 29. Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, FMAꟷPASWI National Vice President, and LVF Managing Director shared programs on empowering children and youth on the Mainstreaming Children’s Agenda with Academe & Practitioners of Social Work forum spearheaded by Child Rights Coalition Asia and Plan International! The effective mainstreaming of children’s agenda demands a collaborative effort between academe and practitioners of social work. This synergy ensures that theoretical frameworks are translated into practical solutions addressing children’s multifaceted challenges.

DOKYUBATA NATIONAL AWARDING 2024

Nov. 30. The National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT) conducted the 2024 DokyuBata Video Documentary Contest with the theme ‘Alab ng Dokyu: Mga Isyu sa Kalinangan, Klima, Kalusugan, at Komunidad’ which illuminate the issues concerning cultural heritage, climate change, public health, and community dynamics through the lens of Filipino learners. This aims to promote and encourage the production of quality television contest that reflects the nuance and aspirations of Filipino learners, showcase child-friendly documentaries, and foster a unified narrative that enriches the Filipino family. After much review by the judges, the Best Documentary on Children’s Division goes to Tabon Alon; Young Adult Division -Tawid; Adult Division-Sino’t Saan were awarded winners during the National Awarding at the Heritage Hotel Manila. Present to award the winners were the National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT) Executive Director, Ms. Daisy Atienza; Chairman, Dr. Luis Gatmaitan; and Council Member, Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, FMA & Teacher Sally Lopez, Keynote Speaker Mr. Howie Severino, and other prestigious judges who are known documentarians.  Sr Marivic was the NCCT Council Member assigned to be part of the 2024 Board of Judges of the 104 documentaries submitted to NCCT. This video documentary is an annual contest of the NCCT, which began in 2017.

NATIONAL COMMITTEE ON CHILD AND YOUTH PARTICIPATION (NCCYP) FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLANNING WORKSHOP

Nov. 18-22.  The Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) spearheaded the NCCYP 5-Year Strategic Planning, focusing on CHILD PARTICIPATION composed of various government agencies, CSOs, and NGOs. The ‘consortium’ dove deeper into the issues and factors that inhibit Child Participation & Youth Participation (CYP) at the level of families, communities, and policies. Ms. Monsay, LVF representative, reiterated that incident/victimization of abuse, violence, and sexual exploitation in all settings should be included in the factors that inhibit child participation. The dialogue disclosed that Child Participation is the least prioritized among children’s rights, anchoring to its levels; most often, children were treated as tokens during for a, symposiums, and other activities. The ‘consortium’ shall follow this matrix when drafting the strategic planning.

ROADMAP TOWARDS NCCYP STRAT PLAN: 2025-2029
Vision & Mission ꟷ> Program Gap Analysis ꟷ> Theory of Change/Strat Framework ꟷ> ꟷ> Assumptions & Risks ꟷ> Change Strategiesꟷ> Results-Based M&E Matrixꟷ>Institutional Arrangement
Twenty-one (21) participants were divided into groups that will focus on four lenses:

  1. Policy/Legislation
  2. Research/Monitoring & Evaluation/ Data Management
  3. Programs, Capacity Building, Resource Sharing, Communication, Advocacy
  4. Operation, Sustainability, Coordination

Each group formulated an outcome and an output under these four lenses to achieve the desired change (each group’s outcome). The discussion among groups revealed issues on children and youth in the Philippines, with one study linking alcoholism to teenage pregnancy, showing that young people often get pregnant due to drunkenness. This collective effort hopes and envisions a society where children and young people are active contributors and lead to the development of the society and the country. A lot has been done, but there is still much to do.  

LVF WAS AWARDED ONE OF THE OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP AWARDS

Dec. 09. The Laura Vicuna Foundation was awarded the Outstanding Leadership Award. During the 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Aloha Hotel, Manila, it was a loyal National Council of Social Development (NCSD) member organization.

PRAYER FOR OUR DECEASED SISTERS

Nov. 12. The LVF community, Sisters, and girls visited the Manila Memorial Park in Sucat, Parañaque, to pray for the deceased, especially the deceased FMA Sisters. It is the community’s way to honor their lives of dedication to faith, service, and others. It is a way to acknowledge and appreciate their positive impact on the world.

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

TRAINING INDUCTION PROGRAM FOR ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION NC II
Nov. 5. The Training Induction Program for Organic Agriculture Production NC II officially commenced. A total of 33 trainees from various parts of Taytay participated in the program. The event was graced by distinguished visitors, including Ms. Maria Victoria Baaco, representing the Office of the Province. She took the opportunity to explain the various benefits of the scholarship offered to the program’s scholars. Sir Melchor Gabua, the Farm Administrator of the Apostolic Vicariate of Taytay, also attended the event. Along with Sr. Lyn Grace M. Palanca, FMA, and the dedicated staff, they took an active role in leading and facilitating the training program. The program, which aimed to provide hands-on knowledge and skills for organic agriculture production, was successfully carried out, with sessions covering the essentials of organic farming practices.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRAINING SESSION

Nov. 10. The two-hour entrepreneurship training session at the Training Session on Vicariate of Taytay (AVT) focused on practical skills and knowledge applicable to the farmers’ immediate needs. The curriculum included modules on essential business planning, covering market analysis, identifying target customers, and developing a simple business plan tailored for agricultural products. Emphasis was placed on cost management and pricing strategies, equipping the farmers with the tools to calculate production costs and set profitable prices for their goods. Finally, the session incorporated a segment on simple marketing and sales techniques, including strategies for reaching local markets and building customer relationships. The training aimed to empower the farmers to improve their business acumen and increase the profitability of their farming ventures.

LET’S TALK ABOUT HEALTH & WELL-BEING

On Nov. 14, Sr. Nancy, FMA, conducted the informative and valuable sex education session. The information shared was helpful and presented respectfully and sensitively. The session provided a safe space to ask questions and learn about important topics related to sexual health and well-being.

NATIONAL CHILDREN’S MONTH 2024

Nov. 14. Today marked a significant day in our commitment to child welfare in our celebration of Children’s Month with the powerful theme: “Break the Prevalence, End the Violence, Protecting Children, and Creating a Safe Philippines.” The event was a resounding success, filled with activities designed to raise awareness about the critical issues facing children in our nation. A short TV presentation on child safety and protection was put to the test during the Quiz Bee! The day was a testament to our collective dedication to fostering a nurturing and secure environment for the young generation.

TWO-DAY EVALUATION WITN TECHNICAL VOCATIONAL INSTITUTION OF MOTHER MORANO EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

November 20. A two-day evaluation visit was conducted at the Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc., by a team from the Technical Vocational Institution of Mother Morano Educational Foundation. Ms. Renee Navarra, Ms. Chona Lugnasin, and Mr. Angelo Fuentebella led the evaluation team. During the visit, the evaluators interviewed trainees, graduates, and trainers, including Sr. Rose A. Panganiba, FMA, and Sr. Cathy Urgello, FMA. These interviews formed the core of the evaluation process.

DSWD AUDIT VISIT

Nov. 23. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) conducted an audit visit to LVF Macarascas with Ms. Irene, a Registered Social Worker (RSW), as the agency’s representative. Ms. Irene reviewed the records and other documents. We appreciate her time and expertise in ensuring compliance with DSWD regulations.

SR. LYN’S INSTALLATION AS THE FIRST ANIMATOR OF TAYTAY, PALAWAN

Fr. Juvelan Paul Samia, SDB, officiated the online Mass celebration while Sr. Teresita installed Sr. Lyn Grace and Sr. Nayda as animators of Taytay, Palawan, and Pansol in Laguna. The learners, staff, FMA, and Jacinda, the VIDES volunteer, can help make the event meaningful. As usual, the learners presented their repertoire of songs, playing with their respective musical instruments.

LVF MALIHAO, NEG. OCC.

DON BOSCO MONDO PROJECT RESEARCH TEAM AUDIT/ VISIT
November 29 – December 3, 2024 – The Don Bosco Mondo Project Research Team Audit/Visit occurred at LVF Malihao. The visit was led by Ms. Renee Navarra, the team leader, and her assistants, Ms. Chona Lugnasin and Mr. Angelo Fuentebella. The faculty, staff, and FMA Sisters warmly welcomed the team upon their arrival. During the audit, the research team conducted assessments and discussions regarding the ongoing projects, ensuring that everything was aligned with the objectives of the Don Bosco Mondo initiative. The team also interviewed students, faculty, staff, and administrators to gather valuable feedback and insights. Additionally, they visited the on-the-job trainees at their workplaces, where they could observe and engage with the trainees. The three research team members also had productive conversations with the trainees’ mentors and company owners, gaining further insights into the trainees’ experiences and the program’s effectiveness provided an opportunity to review progress, share insights, and strengthen the collaboration between the team and the school.

ISO ORIENTATION

Nov. 4-6. The ISO Orientation, led by Mr. Edgar F. Paca and Ms. Lady Claire Pamaybay, QCS Phils. Consultancy & Training took place at the School AVR. The FMA Sisters, faculty, and staff attended the event, which provided valuable information and guidance on ISO standards and procedures. During the session, they discussed the LINERA and the Strategic Plan, which enhanced the organization’s practices. The session proved insightful and aimed at improving the school’s operational processes. As a token of gratitude to Sir Edgar and Ms. Claire, the teachers prepared greeting cards. After the training, certificates of Training were handed to all participants.

LVF BOARD MEETING, GCASH & TIKTOK MASTERCLASS WORKSHOP

Nov. 14. The FMA Sisters, Board Directors, and Board Members gathered for the LVF Board Meeting at LVF Malihao. The event began with a welcome presentation followed by lunch, allowing informal discussions. The formal meeting included an October to November report highlighting key activities and a financial report to ensure transparency. Board members had queries and offered suggestions, contributing to the discussion on future improvements. A thank-you presentation from LVWDTC students showcased their talent, followed by a final photo opportunity. This meeting reinforced collaboration, ensuring continued progress for the institution. Meanwhile, Ms. Victoria Seluce, a teacher, and ten students attended the GCash X TikTok MASTERCLASS WORKSHOP at Marjhun’s Banquet Hall, Victorias City. Led by Benjo Bj Hervias, GCash Area Manager, the workshop featured an energizer activity and discussions and ended with a photo opportunity. This event combined administrative work with educational enrichment for the attendees. 

LEADERS AND ANIMATORS’ FORMATION 2024

Nov. 9. Seventeen (17) youth leaders, together with the SYM Coordinators, Sir Kenneth John P. Cornelio and Ms. Ma Aika Tacud, took the challenge of actively participating during the Leaders and Animators Formation 2024, which had a theme of “Bridging the Gap: Design, Technology and Youth Ministry,” held at Don Bosco Technical Institute—Victorias. The leaders were introduced to different platforms and apps that they could use to enhance further their leadership and organizational skills in the youth ministry.

NEPHILA WEB TECHNOLOGY, INC SITE VISIT

Nov. 18-21. The NEPHILA Web Technology, Inc. Site Visit focused on implementing a new system to manage the enrollment and grading cycles for TVET and Senior High School programs. The visit, led by AJ Dela Merced (Jr. System Support Analyst) and Roy Plomantes (Chief Technology Officer), aimed to optimize the school’s administrative processes. Key steps included setting up a Chart of Accounts, adjusting TVET tuition fees to be program-based, and configuring fees and payment plans. The Nephila team assisted in migrating student profiles and improving the cutoff management process by separating the enrollment and grading cycles to avoid conflicts. The team provided essential training for faculty and staff to ensure a smooth transition and empower the school to manage the system independently in the future. This visit laid the groundwork for a more efficient and streamlined administrative system that would benefit staff and students. 

FIRST AID AND BASIC LIFE SUPPORT TRAINING

Nov. 27. The First Aid and Basic Life Support Training was held at the School Multi-Purpose Hall, attended by the FMA Sisters, students, faculty, and staff. The event began with the opening program, followed by the Emergency Preparedness Module, where participants learned essential knowledge on handling emergencies. Ms. Annica Jen Belgira led this session from the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, which provided valuable insights on emergency preparedness. Then, the group had a short break for snacks. The training continued with First Aid Training delivered by Gary Apostol, who guided participants in learning basic life-saving techniques. After the lunch break, the training resumed with Basic Life Support (BLS) Training facilitated by Reynalyn Bedoya, who focused on CPR and other critical interventions. This was followed by a simulation, allowing the attendees to practice the skills they had learned. The event concluded with the awarding of certificates of appreciation to the three speakers—Ms. Annica Jen Belgira, Gary Apostol, and Reynalyn Bedoya—by Sr. Therese Yvonne Jance, FMA, on behalf of Sr. Ma. Guia S. Asparen, FMA, the School Directress. The session ended with closing remarks from Ms. Ma. Victoria Seluce, Health Service Staff, marking the successful and enriching experience for all involved. 

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

Catechesis plays a crucial role in the spiritual formation of individuals of all ages. Catechesis ensures the transmission of the Catholic faith from one generation to the next. It imparts the fundamental truths of the faith, such as the existence of God, the Trinity, the Incarnation, and the sacraments. Catechesis fosters a deep prayer life by teaching individuals how to pray and encouraging them to engage in regular prayer, both personal and communal. Catechesis remains an indispensable aspect of Christian life. By nurturing faith, forming conscience, cultivating prayer, and promoting community, catechesis empowers individuals to live as faithful disciples of Christ. As the world continues to evolve, catechesis must adapt to meet the needs of contemporary society while remaining loyal to the timeless truths of the Catholic faith.

SOLIDARITYSERYE

In today’s interconnected world, solidarity is more important than ever. We face global challenges that require global solutions. Climate change, poverty, and inequality affect us all, regardless of nationality or background. To address these challenges, we must work together across borders and cultures. We can build a more just, equitable, and sustainable future for all by working together. Standing with others, sharing their burdens, and fighting for their rights is a conscious choice. We are blessed to have consistent bread donors: RFM Corp., Breadtalk, and Purple Oven, which we share with our Child Protection Clinic Communities.

PASWI COP

The Philippine Association of Social Workers Inc. (PASWI) continues to lead and facilitate the Circle of Prayer (COP) every Wednesday night. Via Zoom videoconferencing. This starts with a meet-and-greet and announcements among social workers. Afterward, the group reads, shares, and reflects on the Word of God. Sr. Marivic ends this by sharing stories related to the Gospel reading and sharing a closing prayer. PASWI various local chapters co-host this Wednesday prayer habit.

by mir321

October 2024 News

LVF OCTOBRAVE: AN INDELIBLE MARK OF LASTING IMPACT

Indelible ink, a substance that leaves a permanent mark, is often associated with elections, signifying a voter’s participation in a democratic process. This also signifies bravery and courage. Moreover, this powerful symbol can extend beyond the ballot box, representing the enduring impact of an organization’s work. This is true for the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. (LVF). For more than thirty-four years, LVF has implemented innovative solutions, advocated for social change, and provided essential services—all these for the protection and empowerment of children and young people. Our Iloilo-wide #iamBRAVE Campaign has reached 7 867 students in the peripheries of the province! We remain committed to uplifting marginalized youth by offering LVF Training Courses in our centers in Palawan, Negros Occidental, and Quezon City. These courses aim to equip young people with skills and knowledge in preparation for their employment so that they have the capacity to alleviate their family situations. Behind these successes is God’s Divine providence and the guidance of Mama Mary and our Salesian saints, Mother Mazzarello, and Don Bosco! With these efforts, we at LVF create a positive and lasting impact. Much like indelible ink, this impact cannot be easily erased or forgotten.

LVF MALIHAO, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL
LVWDTC TVET GRADUATION
SUSTAINABLE ORGANIC FARMING TRAINING
ENROLLMENT TO EMPLOYMENT!
EDUCATOR’S DAY CELEBRATION AND INDUCTION CEREMONY
PENCIL MODULE
FAMILY LIVING ROSARY AND 2ND PARENTS FORMATION

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN
LVF MACARASCAS REGIONAL AUDIT
TRAINING PREPARATION AT BISHOP RESIDENCE AVT MISSION CENTER
OFF-CAMPUS TRAINING IN ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION NCII
OUTREACH INITIATIVE AT PUERTO PRINCESA CITY JAIL
TEACHERS’ DAY

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
CROSS CATHOLIC OUTREACH (CCO) VISITS LVF, QC!
RETREAT / RECOLLECTION
PARADE OF SAINTS
PHILIPPINE ASSOCIATION FOR SOCIAL WORKERS, INC.  RECOGNIZED LVF!

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
CATECHESIS
SOLIDARITYSERYE
PASWI COP

LVF #IAMBRAVE ROADTRIP IN ILOILO

The Passi National High School (PNHS) students have spoken: ‘We commit to be brave and to Speak Up when we experience and witness abuses; we are capable of protecting ourselves! We are brave!’

The LVF #iamBRAVE advocacy campaign reached a total of 7,867 child and youth participants. In Passi National High School alone, LVF has reached 6,000 high school students [divided into 2000 students in 3 sessions] from grades 7 & 8; grades 9 & 10; & grades 11 & 12 together with Sr. Marivic Sta Ana, Sr. Aleth Evangelista, & social workers, Ms. JessaMae Nardo, Angie Mae Villaren; in various schools in Passi City, Iloilo Western Visayas; Man-it Integrated School, Liboo Integrated School, Agdayao Integrated School, Passi National High School-Sablogon Annex, Agdahon Farm School, Mulapula National High School, Salngan National High School, Efraim Santibanez National High School, and Passi National High School.

Along with this advocacy campaign is the unshrouding of the reality that many children and youth are suffering from Filipinos’ culture of silence, the fear and refusal of voicing out of the incidence of abuse to protect the family integrity, shame, and stigma, among many other reasons, especially incest cases.

The article published by the Philippine News Agency (PNA) narrated that most of the violence against children cases occur in the form of physical abuse, with 213 recorded in 2018, followed by other acts of abuse with 97 and acts of lasciviousness with 64. Furthermore, the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) and the non-government organization Cameleon Association Inc. believe that there are still abused children who are afraid to come forward.

One of the participants emphasized the importance of speaking up, not just for herself but also for others who may feel too afraid or powerless to do so. Another underscored the importance of understanding their rights and reminding them that they are not impotent in the face of threats.

Her message inspired her fellow students to recognize that they can advocate for their and their peers’ safety and well-being. Principals, teachers, and students commented that this advocacy session benefited them. Some of them heard this issue for the first time and were happy because they were already aware and knew what was happening in their surroundings. These sessions are a precursor to LVF’s National Convention, which will gather 2,000 young people.

LVF MALIHAO, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

LVWDTC TVET GRADUATION
October 11. The graduation ceremony for the TVET (Technical Vocational Education and Training) Batch 2022-2024 trainees, held at the Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Malihao, marked a significant milestone for the graduates, their families, and the institution. Mrs. Michelle Gerona was the distinguished guest speaker for the occasion. In her inspiring address, she emphasized the transformative power of technical education and the importance of the CHAMP principles – Confidence, Hard work and Humbleness, Ambition, Multi-tasking, and Prayer – as essential guiding values for success. In addition, she told them that they should be proud because they are equally competent and competitive with graduate degree courses.

SUSTAINABLE ORGANIC FARMING TRAINING

October 1-4. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Malihao concluded the Season of Creation 2024, themed “To Act and Hope with Creation,” with a series of activities celebrating our commitment to sustainability. A key highlight was the Training Seminar on Sustainable Organic Farming, led by Mr. Melchor “Chong” Gabua from the Apostolic Vicariate of Taytay, Palawan. His extensive knowledge and passion for sustainable practices inspired our community, empowering us to cultivate a healthier future. These events brought us together to reflect on our responsibility to protect Mother Earth and foster action and awareness for a greener world.

ENROLLMENT TO EMPLOYMENT

October 5. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Malihao proudly announces the employment of two trainees at Mary Help of Christians College – Canlubang. This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to foster professional growth and practical experience for our trainees. This opportunity enhances their skills and allows them to contribute to the college’s mission of holistic education.

EDUCATOR’S DAY CELEBRATION AND INDUCTION CEREMONY

October 7. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Malihao celebrated Educator’s Day, along with the induction of the Student Youth Movement (SYM) and classroom officers. The event began with a short program at the school, where students presented heartfelt letters and gifts to each educator in appreciation of their hard work and dedication. Following the program, a mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Rafael Baja, adding a meaningful touch to the celebration.

PENCIL MODULE

On October 18, Mrs. Jonalyn A. Ayola, a former teacher at Laura Vicuña Women Development and Training Center, conducted a Pencil Module for the 54 Grade 12 students SY 2024-2025. This activity is aimed at helping the students reflect on their actions, recognize their shortcomings, and consider how they can grow in faith, character, and virtues.

FAMILY LIVING ROSARY AND 2ND PARENTS FORMATION

On October 26, the Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Malihao Community, in collaboration with Mrs. Jonalyn A. Ayola, hosted a meaningful event at the School’s Multi-purpose Hall. The event featured two main activities: the 2nd Parents Formation and the Family Living Rosary. The program began with the 2nd Parents Formation, led by Mrs. Jonalyn A. Ayola, a former school faculty member. The session was centered around the inspiring topic “The Dream That Makes You Dream,” highlighting St. John Bosco’s vision and mission. It focused on his dreams for the youth and how these aspirations continue to inspire and guide the Salesian community. Following the parents’ formation, the event proceeded with the Family Living Rosary, which featured a short presentation from the selected students and families gathered in prayer, strengthening their spiritual bond and reinforcing the importance of faith in daily life.

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

LVF MACARASCAS REGIONAL AUDIT
October 8. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) MIMAROPA conducted a regional audit to the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc.-Macarascas, Palawan. This important event marks the start of a comprehensive review and evaluation of the Foundation’s operations, financial records, and overall performance in line with regional standards and regulations. The audit is a crucial opportunity to assess the Foundation’s transparency, accountability, and effectiveness in fulfilling its mission. Sr. Rose and the staff will provide an overview of the audit process, which will involve detailed assessments, ensuring that all systems and procedures are in place to maintain the highest level of integrity and efficiency. During the audit, the Foundation will also reflect on its achievements and challenges over the past year and identify areas for improvement and growth. The goal is to comply with regulatory requirements and strengthen the Foundation’s commitment to its core values of service, education, and community development. Key stakeholders, including members of the Foundation’s board, auditors, and representatives from relevant regional offices, will attend the audit’s opening. The entire staff is dedicated to making this audit process smooth, transparent, and valuable, aiming to continue to serve the community with the highest level of excellence.

TRAINING PREPARATION AT BISHOP RESIDENCE AVT MISSION CENTER

October 9. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc., with Sr. Rose Panganiban, FMA, and the dedicated staff, visited the Bishop Residence AVT Mission Center located in St. Joseph de Worker Village. This visit was part of the preparations for an upcoming training session scheduled to take place in Taytay. The group toured the facilities to conduct a thorough inspection and ensure that everything would be ready for the training program. During the visit, Sr. Rose and the team assessed the space and resources available at the Mission Center, considering various factors such as accommodation, amenities, and logistical support for the participants. They closely examined the layout of the venue, as well as the accessibility and comfort of the environment, to guarantee that it would meet the needs of the trainees. The inspection was also an opportunity for the Foundation to engage with the local community at St. Joseph de Worker Village, strengthening the ties between the Foundation and the community it serves. Sr. Rose and the staff took the time to interact with members of the community, learning about their needs and offering support where possible. This collaborative approach is central to the Foundation’s mission of fostering a sense of unity, education, and empowerment within the local areas it serves. As part of the inspection, the team discussed the logistics of the upcoming training, including the schedule, the expected number of participants, and the various educational materials and resources that would be required. The goal is to ensure the training runs smoothly, providing an enriching experience for all those involved. The visit concluded with a final review of the Mission Center’s readiness, with Sr. Rose and the team expressing confidence that the upcoming training in Taytay would be a success. This site visit was just one of many steps in the Foundation’s ongoing efforts to provide valuable training and educational opportunities to the community, and it underscored the importance of meticulous planning and preparation to ensure that every aspect of the training would be up to standard.

OFF-CAMPUS TRAINING IN ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION NCII

October 17. Sr. Lyn Grace Palanca, FMA, led the staff and participants in filling out the necessary forms for an upcoming Off-Campus Training in Organic Agriculture Production NCII. The training, set to take place in the first week of November this year in Taytay, Palawan, is part of the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc.’s ongoing efforts to provide practical, hands-on learning opportunities for community members interested in sustainable agricultural practices. The session, under Sr. Lyn Grace’s leadership, involved careful preparation as participants were guided through the process of completing the required registration forms and documentation. These forms are essential for ensuring that all participants are properly enrolled and their information is accurately recorded before the training. Sr. Lyn Grace, with her deep commitment to education and community development, emphasized the importance of proper preparation to ensure the training runs smoothly and efficiently. The Organic Agriculture Production NCII course is designed to equip participants with essential skills in organic farming practices, including crop management, pest control, and sustainable farming techniques. This program is especially relevant for the region of Taytay, where agriculture plays a central role in the local economy, and the community has shown increasing interest in more sustainable and eco-friendly farming methods. The goal of the training is not only to enhance the participants’ skills but also to promote environmental stewardship and increase the local community’s capacity to produce high-quality, organic produce. The event on October 17 also served as an opportunity for Sr. Lyn Grace and the Foundation’s team to clarify any questions the participants had about the course, the schedule, and the logistical arrangements for the training in Taytay. It was an important moment for the learners to understand the scope of the training and how it would benefit them both personally and professionally. With the training just a few weeks away, there was a sense of excitement among the participants. Many expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to develop new skills that would help them in their own agricultural endeavors and contribute to the broader goal of promoting sustainable farming practices in the region. Sr. Lyn Grace, alongside the staff, assured the participants that the Foundation would provide the necessary support and resources to make the training experience as impactful as possible. The registration and preparation process on October 17 marked an important milestone in the journey toward the November training in Taytay. Sr. Lyn Grace and the staff’s commitment to ensuring that every detail was covered reflects the Foundation’s dedication to providing quality education and training opportunities that empower individuals and strengthen communities.

OUTREACH INITIATIVE AT PUERTO PRINCESA CITY JAIL

October 21. Sr. Rose Panganiban, FMA, Sr. Mel David, and Fr. Dan, Fr. Echo, volunteers, and staff visited the Puerto Princesa City Jail in Sta. Monica as part of a meaningful outreach initiative. The group conducted a Feeding Program and Gift Giving for the Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) held at the facility. This activity was carried out in connection with the celebration of National Correctional Consciousness Week, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the conditions and rights of individuals within the correctional system. The visit was not only an opportunity to provide a warm meal and small gifts to the incarcerated individuals but also to offer them a sense of hope, dignity, and solidarity. Sr. Rose and the team engaged with the PDLs, fostering a spirit of compassion and reinforcing the importance of rehabilitation, second chances, and the recognition of their inherent human dignity. The event also highlighted the commitment of the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. and its partners in supporting marginalized and underserved groups in society. By participating in National Correctional Consciousness Week, the team hoped to contribute to the ongoing efforts to promote the well-being of persons deprived of liberty and remind them that they are not forgotten. The visit was a heartwarming gesture of solidarity and kindness, reflecting the Foundation’s mission to serve and uplift communities in need, regardless of their circumstances.

TEACHERS’ DAY

October 8. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. celebrated Teachers’ Day with a heartfelt and simple presentation organized by the learners. The students showcased a variety of performances, including songs, poems, and dance, as a tribute to the dedicated Sisters and staff members who have guided and inspired them throughout the school year. The event was filled with warmth and gratitude as the learners took the opportunity to express their appreciation for the hard work and commitment of their teachers, recognizing the invaluable role educators play in shaping their futures. The celebration reminded us of the importance of teaching and the lasting impact that compassionate and devoted teachers have on their students’ lives. The atmosphere was filled with joy, laughter, and a sense of community, with everyone coming together to honor those who selflessly dedicate their time and energy to education.

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

CROSS CATHOLIC OUTREACH (CCO) VISITS LVF, QC!
October 11. For many years now, the Cross Catholic Outreach (CCO) has been one of the Laura Vicuna Foundation’s lead funders in its work for the protection of children and the prevention of abuse, trafficking, violence, and exploitation. Mr. Kevin Kho, CCO Project Officer, accompanied by Ms. Lot Ortiz Ruiz, visited the LVF Center in Cubao, Quezon City, to see the work LVF does in person and an encounter with the girls and staff. We are grateful and blest for CCO’s continued support of LVF’s initiatives to fight abuse, violence, exploitation, and trafficking.

RETREAT / RECOLLECTION

Oct. 05. The girls of the Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. Cubao Quezon City had the chance to have a profound encounter with Jesus through an overnight retreat at the Mornese Center of Spirituality in Pansol Laguna. God embraced them with love and allowed them to experience His healing power, granting them the grace of peace, mercy, and hope. Thank you to Sr. Rebecca and the community for your unconditional love and for allowing this chance for free. May God’s blessings be yours now and always.

PARADE OF SAINTS

Oct. 27. Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. Participated in the Parade of Saints at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Cubao Quezon City. It’s a counterculture to the pagan celebration of Halloween and a way to teach young children and families about the lives of saints. The event began with a Holy mass celebrated by Fr Rey Pagkalinawan at the Religious of the Virgin Mary chapel in Santo Domingo, followed by a parade going to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. It’s an annual activity that every parishioner looks forward to and enjoys, but for the girls at the center, it’s always a hope and a dream that one day they’ll be considered one of the saints in heaven.

PHILIPPINE ASSOCIATION FOR SOCIAL WORKERS, INC.  RECOGNIZED LVF

October 22. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. was given a gratitude award by the Philippine Association of Social Workers Inc. (PASWI) during the celebration of its 76th PASWI National Convention in Waterfront Hotel, Cebu City.  The citation reads: ‘This Gratitude Award is given to Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. for their invaluable support & services rendered to the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. & the communities they serve, which have positively contributed to improving people’s lives. Their wholehearted dedication to uplifting the welfare of children is truly commendable & inspiring.’

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

CATECHESIS
Have you ever come across a random Facebook reel in which a man approaches strangers and asks them questions about what leads to their success? Often, their answers follow a common theme: hard work, trust, and faith in God. LVF continues to spread the Word of God to our Child Protection Communities every Sunday of the week, facilitated by Sr. Sarah Grace Robas, FMA. One of catechesis’s primary goals is cultivating a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. By fostering a deep understanding of the Gospel message, catechumens are empowered to live as true followers of Christ. As a cornerstone of faith formation, catechesis is crucial in shaping individuals into mature disciples of Christ. There are literature reviews that relate success to faith in God or any higher being. Religion and spirituality help people in difficult times and provide opportunities for improvement in their livelihoods and lifestyles. In both good times and bad, people seek the power of God. In the face of uncertainty, be it environmental or broadly social, or in times of conflict, people may seek assurance and protection through faith, a source of inspiration. You can overcome any impediment in your path to success if you have faith. Faith is a statement of hope for a brighter future. It is more than a wish. The leap of faith is what faith implies.

SOLIDARITYSERYE

After every formation session, Sr. Sarah, assisted by LVF social workers, distributes biscuits, breads, juices, and sometimes toiletries and eggs to the attendees. On Monday, our staff gives out RFM bread to our ten (10) CPC Communities. At its core, solidarity is about empathy and compassion. We are grateful to our consistent donors who share their blessings with us.

PASWI- COP

In our increasingly noisy world, the power of silence, pause, and prayer is often overlooked. These simple acts can have a profound impact on our individual and collective well-being. That is why the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI) is having a weekly Wednesday prayer habit dubbed as Circle of Prayer (COP) via Zoom! This is participated in and co-hosted by different PASWI chapters nationwide. This online prayer transformed into a spiritual lifeline for social workers, providing a daily space for reflection, prayer, and seeking God’s grace.

by mir321

September 2024 News

THE POWER OF TEAMS: LVF SEP-TEAM-BER

Teams are essential in achieving goals. Our strengths at LVF come from good leadership, diverse capacities, hard work, prayers, and raison d’etre —building a culture of protection and empowerment of children, young people, and communities.


The collective strength and synergy that the LVF teams have generated and enabled countless achievements: Family Congress discussing the current issue that Filipino families are facing today dubbed as “Forever Love versus Divorce”; the LVF Roadtrip in Palawan to #endTraffickingInPersons continue to reach hundreds of students and parents in collaboration with the Department of Education and Community leaders in Palawan; with the continued partnership between LVF and TESDA, our Technical Vocational Trainees were trained for Produce Organic Fertilizer Leading to Organic Agriculture Production and Housekeeping with National Certificate II. Establishing partnerships and working with diverse networks is a powerful force that drives us to achieve remarkable things for and with the young, especially God, the reason of our being and strivings.Indeed, together, we can achieve more than we ever could alone.
 
PARENTS’ CONGRESS LVF 2024
 
LVF MACARASCAS-PALAWAN
PRODUCE ORGANIC FERTILIZER LEADING TO ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION NCII TRAINING!
BSP IN LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN!
TVET PALAWAN MEETING
MAYOR SOCRATES CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY AT LVF MACARASCAS!
ANNUAL GULPIMANO
ATI MIMAROPA SEMINAR
 
LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS CITY, NEG. OCC
HOUSEKEEPING NC II ASSESSMENT
TVET FORUM 2024
ENTREPRENEURSHIP SEMINAR
3RD ANNIVERSARY OF THE SDO
SYM KICK-OFF AND SEASON OF CREATION
SEMINAR WORKSHOP
MASS IN CELEBRATION OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
 
LVF CUBAO, QC
LVF ROADTRIP TO PALAWAN: TOGETHER, LET US END #TIP!
BREATHING THE AIR OF SANCTITY IN THE PLACES THE FMA ORIGINS
ONE IN WELCOMING REV. FR. ZABALA!
ROSH HASHANA WITH MADAM GILA FLUSS
 
WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
CATECHESIS
LVF SOLIDARITYSERYE EFFORTS!
PASWI-COP

PARENTS’ CONGRESS LVF 2024

Quezon City (Philippines). On 22 September 2024, a parent meeting was held in Cubao, Quezon City, at the Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF) of St. Mary D. Mazzarello Province (FIL), which addresses the needs and problems of at-risk boys and girls on the theme: “Forever vs. Divorce.”
 
The participants – about a hundred parents from the FMA centers of Mabalacat, Pampanga, Canlubang, Laguna, Sta. Mesa, Manila, and the LVF communities of Cubao, Quezon City – gathered to reflect on how the divorce law, recently approved by the House and still to be approved by the Senate of the Philippines, could have an impact on the family. The proposal aims to recognize divorce in the country – the only one in the world together with the Vatican – that currently recognizes marriage as indissoluble, admitting only the nullity decreed by the canonical tribunals in cases of serious shortcomings.
 
The event opened with a greeting from Sister Maria Victoria Santa Ana, FMA, CEO of the Foundation, who emphasized the importance of the family as the foundation of society. She then shared the touching story of a couple whose separation led to lasting suffering for their children, highlighting the profound and often hidden consequences of failed marriages.
Speakers Mr. Relly and Mrs. Myrna Baclit and moderator Ms. Carol Monz Thor delved into concepts such as the sanctity of marriage, the challenges families face, and the growing reality of divorce in Philippine society.
 
Mr. Relly Baclit reminded the participants that marriage is not a simple contract but a covenant sealed by God that requires sacrifice and love. His wife, Myrna Baclit, emphasized the power of forgiveness and reconciliation, encouraging couples to pray and work through commitment and sacrifice rather than easily opting for divorce.
 
Lyn, a resident of Laura Vicuña Center in Cubao, was touched by the personal stories of those present. Coming from a broken home, she and her siblings were separated and plunged into poverty as a result of their parents’ separation. Her story shed light on the emotional and financial toll separation can have on children.
 
Discussions in the groups were filled with empathy, marked by the contrast between the traditional Catholic view of marriage and the concrete realities that sometimes lead couples to separation. While many participants supported the belief of ‘forever,’ the conversation opened up a space for compassion and understanding that separation, and eventually divorce, may be a necessary fallback for some.
 
The event coincided with Philippine Family Week, a nationwide initiative that promotes the unity and strength of families. In light of the divorce bill, Sister Maria Victoria concluded the Congress by recalling the enduring power of love, forgiveness, and faith in keeping families strong. She urged the participants not to embrace the proposed divorce bill and instead adhere to Christian values ​​while facing the complexities of modern life.
 
The LVF Parents’ Congress 2024 served as a reminder that, although legislative changes may change the marriage landscape, the heart of the Filipino family – rooted in faith and a covenant of love sealed by God – remains as vital as ever. The event concluded with the Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Fr. Rey Paglinawan and a shared meal, a further sign of the closeness and support of the Laura Vicuña Foundation to families.

LVF MACARASCAS-PALAWAN

PRODUCE ORGANIC FERTILIZER LEADING TO ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION NCII TRAINING!
Sept. 09-20. A set of training was conducted under the Special Training for Employment Program (STEP) for Produce Organic Fertilizer Leading to Organic Agriculture Production NCII and three (3) days of training for Entrepreneurship led by Ms. Matet Palma. The training, which consisted of twenty-five (25) trainees, started at 8 AM and ended at 5 PM. It covered basic, common, and core topics for eleven (11) days. During the first activity, which focused on the basics, trainees were divided into five groups to get to know each other. In the following days, Ms. Matet P. Palma and Mr. Wernher Cervantes conducted sessions on “Vermi-Composting” and discussed the two processes of composting: “Pre-Composting” and “Rapid Composting.” Trainees participated in the pre-assessment process for both types of composting, collecting substrates from the surrounding area until the processes were complete. The training also included three days focused on entrepreneurship, featuring lectures and activities such as the “Collage of Life,” “Dart,” and brainstorming sessions to create easy-to-start business ideas. Additionally, the trainees participated in activities that tested their skills and knowledge as farmers, with support from other staff members. The training concluded with both trainees and trainers learning a great deal. The trainees were satisfied and eager to participate in the next training session.

BSP IN LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

Sept. 14. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. proudly welcomed visitors from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). We distributed food and essential items to needy families during this meaningful event. The day was filled with joy as volunteers and guests engaged with the community, sharing resources, smiles, and encouragement. Rain or shine, Bangko Sentral of PPC’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arrived early with their co-employees to cheer our learners.  They prepared the lantern-making contest, bringing all the materials to be used, and bought the three (3) lanterns made by the learners to display in their office this December.  They prepared games and left us canned goods, rice, bath towels, and toiletries not in sachets but in bigger containers. As we celebrated the birthday of Ms. Ana’s, they brought spaghetti and Jollibee for lunch.

TVET PALAWAN MEETING

Sept. 17. The Technical Vocational Institution of Palawan held a special meeting at the Ka Inato Function Hall in Barangay San Manuel, Puerto Princesa City. Sr. Lyn Grace M. Palanca, FMA, representing the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc., and other key participants attended the meeting. This gathering allowed attendees to discuss important initiatives and developments within the institution, fostering collaboration and the exchange of ideas for future projects. These discussions aimed to strengthen the institution’s framework and ensure its programs’ continued support and development.

MAYOR SOCRATES CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY AT LVF MACARASCAS

On Sept. 18, Vice Mayor Maria Nancy M. Socrates celebrated her birthday at the Laura Vicuña Foundation. She generously distributed packs of food and other gifts to the learners to mark the occasion, spreading joy and warmth within the community. The celebration honored the Vice Mayor and reinforced the Foundation’s commitment to supporting local youth. Before 9:00 a.m., the group of Vice Mayor Nancy Socrates, PPC, arrived.  The group was composed of Camp Malaya, a group of SK officials from Barangay Irawan, Tagburos, Milagrosa, San Manuel, and Tiniguiban.  Some Barangay officials were also here Chairman Cocoy Gabuco, Pamela Ponce De Leon, Deo De Guzman, Bong Magay, and Jocelyn Samson of Macarascas. She also brought members of Soroptimist International, headed by Atty—Nineth Quicho, wherein she promised to come back and see the possibility of extending help to the foundation. The SK officials prepared games for the learners and prizes for the winning teams.  The learners played three songs to thank the Vice Mayor and everybody. The huge Red Cross kitchen truck distributed spaghetti, fried chicken, squash, string beans, and coconut milk.

ANNUAL GULPIMANO

Sept. 21. Today, the scheduled gulpimano-brigada eskwela, the parents, and past pupils planted some of the calamansi trees while Jacinda, VIDES Volunteer, oversees the documentation.

ATI MIMAROPA SEMINAR

Sept. 25-27. Sr. Lyn Grace, FMA, attended the ATI (Agricultural Training Institute) MIMAROPA gatherings and seminars.  This year’s theme:  ‘Strengthening the Agricultural Extension through Training Management and Sharing of Technological Innovations,’ was held at Vencio’s Garden Hotel and Restaurant Barangay Tawiran, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro. UST Angelicum started the Edukasulong.  It is responsible for the online classes for the learners. These services, which are extended to REAP recipients, greatly benefit the learners.

Sept. 04-06. Bringing with them the skills and knowledge acquired in their school, the twenty-one (21) Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) – BSRS scholars took the Housekeeping NC II Assessment at the Silay Institute Inc., Silay City.

TVET FORUM 2024

Sept. 02. Ms. Ailene M. Ondon, School Registrar and TESDA Focal Person, and Ms. Ma. Aika F. Tacud, Assistant School Registrar, attended the TVET Forum at Nature’s Village, Talisay City. The Technical-Vocational Education And Training (TVET) forum started with a welcome message from Dr. Nena Samillano, ATINO President. Then, Dir. Ramon Evan T. Ruiz, Regional Director of Region 6, gave his message and direction. TESDA updates and ATINO updates were also discussed in the forum. The forum ended with a closing message from Engr: Edward Rapista, Area Vice President- South ATINO, and singing of the TESDA Hymn. The forum participants received a Certificate of Attendance at the event’s conclusion.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP SEMINAR

Sept. 12, 14, 19-20. The TVET and Grade 12 students attended the Entrepreneurship Seminar at the LVF Multi-Purpose Hall and school AVR. The seminar’s main objective is to give the students the knowledge and skills to be an entrepreneur. The student participants learned a lot in the discussions/inputs prepared by each facilitator, such as the “Ten Negosyo Qualities,” “Idea and Creativity, “Planning and Production,” and “Marketing.” For four (4) days, the students gave their best in the following activities: Dart Game, Gown Making, Envelop Game, and Marketing Game.

3RD ANNIVERSARY OF THE SDO

Sept. 16. Ms. Ailene M. Ondon, School Registrar and Dep-Ed Focal Person, represented the Laura Vicuña Women Development and Training Center at the 3rd Anniversary celebration of the City Schools Division of Victorias (CSDV) held at the SDO Office. She was invited by Ma’am Portia M. Mallorca, CESO V, Schools Division Superintendent, to perform an intermission number. The event was further honored by the presence of city officials.

SYM KICK-OFF AND SEASON OF CREATION

Sept. 25. The LVF Malihao Educating Community celebrated the SYM Kick-Off and Season of Creation at the LVF Multi-Purpose Hall. The activity started with a special prayer in celebration of the Season of Creation, which starts every 1st of September and ends on the 4th of October. After the special prayer, each SYM Group had a parade and a short presentation. In the afternoon, the students enjoyed the games prepared by the SYM Student Leaders and Sir Kenneth John P. Cornelio, SYM Coordinator. The cooperation and solidarity of the groups were evident during the activities.

SEMINAR WORKSHOP

Sept. 26. Ms. Ma. Aika F. Tacud, Assistant School Registrar, along with ten (10) student representatives, attended the seminar-workshop for business owners and students of business and entrepreneurship programs, titled “Diskarteng Canva for Every Negosyante,” held at the Don Alejandro Acuña Yap Quiña Cultural Center. The workshop consisted of four engaging sections: Session 1: Canva 101, Session 2: Graphic Design Basics, Session 3: Social Media Mastery, and Session 4: Video Editing 101.”

STARTING THE SY ‘24-’25 WITH A MASS

Fr. Eco celebrated a Holy Eucharist at the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year at LVF-Palawan. During the Holy Mass, Fr. Eco invoked the Holy Spirit to guide and enlighten the entire EC community throughout the academic year. The congregation prayed for the students, the staff, and the sisters for spiritual growth, academic success, and overall well-being. The Holy Mass was a solemn occasion that set an optimistic and spiritually uplifting tone for the start of the school year.

LVF CUBAO, QC

LVF ROADTRIP TO PALAWAN: TOGETHER, LET US END #TIP!
“Gagamitin ko ang impormasyon na ito bilang boses sa mga kabataan na walang boses.”
Sept. 13-17. This is just one of the many reactions and feedback from the participants during the LVF Initiative to Fight Trafficking-Anti Child Trafficking Session (LIFT-ACTS) conducted in different far-flung schools and communities in Palawan. Despite the challenges of Palawan’s geographical location, LVF was able to reach six hundred sixty-eight (668) students of Macarascas National High School, Bahile National High School, Ubaldo L. Conde National High School, The Parish of St. Joseph’s parishioners, LVF-TVET Palawan Trainers and Trainees, LVF-Girls, and LVF-Palawan Parents. During this preventive advocacy session, several realities came to light: most of the participants did not know what Trafficking in Persons is and the reality and severity of this dark and harrowing crime. “This is the first time that our participants and most of the schools that we went to have heard about trafficking in persons,” said Ms. Joy Hugo, LVF social worker and one of the facilitators of the LIFT-ACTS.
     
The Anti-Child Trafficking Session aims to raise awareness among children, youth, and parents who are vulnerable to child trafficking including parents, with Palawan is a famous tourist destination in the Philippines with open seas and ports, recalling that in 2018, Balabac, a municipality in Palawan, was tagged as a “backdoor” to Malaysia for human trafficking. The southern part of Palawan is used for human traffickers to travel by ship or boat, Atty Emmeline Aglipay-Villa said. The short film ‘Red Leaves Falling’ were shown to the participants, followed by a discussion and sharing. The participants committed to spread the information and knowledge to their friends and neighbors saying: “Gagamitin ko ang impormasyon na ito bilang boses sa mga kabataan na walang boses,” “Huwag tayo mahiyang magsumbong at lagi tayo maging aware sa mga future decisions natin,” “Huwag dali dali magtiwala at huwag kumapit sa patalim.” (“I will use this information as a voice to help my fellow youth,” … “Let’s not be shy to report and let’s always be aware of our future decisions,” “Don’t be too quick to trust and sell ourselves.”) The parents committed too to protect their children: “Tayong mga magulang wag hayaan maging biktima ng trafficking ang ating mga anak” and “Ipalaganap ang impormasyon na natutunan namin sa araw na ito…” “Huwag maghangad ng malaki para sa sarili kung ang kapalit nito ay ang kaligtasan ng iyong anak.”  (As parents, we must protect our children, don’t let them become victims of trafficking… Spread the information we learned today… Do not aspire too much or be selfish; it might cost your child’s safety.) This anti-child trafficking session was successful through the partnership and coordination with the Department of Education, Schools, Communities, and Sectors of Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. LVF social workers Ms. Josielyn Hugo, Ms. Angie Mae Villaren, and Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo facilitated it, assisted by Sr. Rosalia A. Panganiban, FMA of the LVF-Palawan. Together, let us raise awareness for the prevention of trafficking and the protection and empowerment of children, young people, and communities.

BREATHING THE AIR OF SANCTITY IN THE PLACES THE FMA ORIGINS

Sr. Sheila Marie Ducot, FMA – LVC economer, was blessed to be sent by Sr. Teresita Padron to join the FMA Project Mornese this year together with Sr. Joralyn Selloria, Sr. Marilyn Precilla, and Sr. Charito Belino. They breathe the air of sanctity in the places of our origins: Rome, Turin, and Mornese. May the spirit of our founders continue to live in them as they walk the pathways of Don Bosco and Mo. Mazzarello and be a presence that generates life and hope for all.

ONE IN WELCOMING REV. FR. ZABALA

Sept. 16. The Laura Vicuña Foundation family joins in welcoming Rev. Fr. Steven C. Zabala, the new Parish priest and Rector of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral of Cubao.

ROSH HASHANA WITH MADAM GILA FLUSS

Madam Gila Fluss, wife of Amb. Ilan Fluss, Israel Ambassador to the Philippines, and her daughter visited LVF to celebrate the Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year and one of Judaism’s holiest days. Meaning “head of the year” or “first of the year.” Her daughter facilitated a short breathing exercise and shared a tradition of eating the apple with honey, which can be interpreted for years to be sweet. 

WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

CATECHESIS
Every Sunday of the week, coinciding with the feast of the Archangels Sts. Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, Sr. Sarah Grace Robas, FMA, enlivened the Sunday Gospel message through catechesis with songs and games and the active participation of the children and mothers from the LVF—CPC (Hillcrest and Brgy. Pinagkaisahan).

LVF SOLIDARITYSERYE EFFORTS

We continue to share our blessings with the Child Protection Clinic Communities. This is after the Sunday catechesis. Bread from RFM Corp. was also distributed to the Communities in the next few days. We thank RFM Corp., Breadtalk, and Purple Oven for the bread! Be assured of our continued prayers for your intentions.

PASWI-COP

The Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc-Circle of Prayer (PASWI-COP), has been a source of rest and recharge among social workers in the Philippines. It has uncovered God’s grace in times of difficulties and challenges and miracles for those faced with illness beyond the doctor’s healing capabilities. ‘My journey has taught me that God is our strength, hope, and healer,’ shared Ms. Myrna Dadang, a retired social worker, now an educator at Holy Cross Davao College. Our sharers continue to pray that may the strength of God sustain us; may the power of God preserve us; may the hands of God protect us; may the way of God direct us; may the love of God go with us day and night forever for the days to come. This weekly prayer habit is headed by Ma’am Eva Ponce de Leon and Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA co-hosted by different PASWI local chapters.

by mir321

August 2024 News

LVF’s AWE-GUST MONTH

August can be considered one of the most significant months in Philippine history. There are numerous celebrations, from Filipinos fighting for freedom from their conquerors to celebrating the month-long Buwan ng Wika (Month of Language) in honor of the late Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon, the Father of the National Language, whose birthday falls on August 19. This month, we witnessed LVF making waves globally! Our young people, the FMA-FIL Delegates, had a one-of-a-kind, awe-gust experience at the International Youth Synod in Turin and Colle Don Bosco, Italy. Meanwhile, Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. FMA was in Thailand for the Inter-provincial Conference, and Sr. Sheila Marie Ducot, FMA, was in Malaysia, sharing and learning the best practices of TVET Institutions. This month, we are proud that LVF-empowered Child Advocates have conducted the Trainor’s Training during the Barangay Children’s Association (BCA) Camp in Laguna. Led by our dedicated Child Advocates, this training equipped the participants with valuable skills in conflict management, decision-making, and goal setting. We believe these skills will be instrumental in their future endeavors. These unique experiences and accomplishments made us proud and inspired us to aim higher.
 
LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
FMA-FIL JOINS THE INTERNATIONAL SALESIAN YOUTH SYNOD IN TURIN AND COLLE DON BOSCO
TRAINOR’S TRAINING: EMPOWERING YOUNG PEOPLE
LVF CHILD ADVOCATES JOIN MIKSKO WORKSHOP
CIAO-SPR IN THAILAND 
LVF MACARASCAS-PALAWAN
LVF MACARRASCAS WELCOMES SR. ENA, FMA
TESDA ANNIVERSARY
RCEF TRAINEES PRACTICE DRIVING
UST ANGELICUM REAP OPENING OF CLASSES
 
LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN
LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN COMPLETES TRAINING IN AGRO ENTERPRISE CLUSTERING APPROACH!
TECHNICAL BRIEFING ON CROP DIVERSIFICATION
LVF MACARASCAS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH WESTERN PALAWAN UNIVERSITY
WELCOME TO LVF MACARASCAS VIDES VOLUNTEERS!
STARTING THE SY ‘24-’25 WITH A MASS!
 
LVF MALIHAO- NEG. OCC.
NATIONAL TECHNICAL VOCATIONAL DAY
SIGNING OF AGREEMENT AND AWARDING OF SCHOLARSHIP CERTIFICATE
BOOKKEEPING NC III ASSESSMENT
MONITORING OF THE OPENING OF CLASSES OF PRIVATE SCHOOLS
MEETING WITH THE DEP- ED OFFICIALS FOR ACCOUNTANCY, BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT (ABM) STRAND VALIDATION FOR APPROVAL
DEP-ED MEETING
ONE TOWN, ONE PRODUCT INTRODUCTION
 
LVF TRAINING CENTERS JOIN THE STUDY-VISIT IN MALAYSIA AND SINGAPORE
BUWAN NG WIKA 2024 “FILIPINO: WIKANG MAPAGLAYA”
 
LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES 
SOLIDARITYSERYE
CATECHESIS
PASWI COP

FMA-FIL JOINS THE INTERNATIONAL SALESIAN YOUTH SYNOD IN TURIN AND COLLE DON BOSCO, ITALY

Aug. 11-16. The Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA-FIL) joined the International Salesian Youth Synod in celebration of the Bicentenary of Don Bosco’s Dream at Nine (9) Years of Age with the theme “The Dream that Makes You Dream: A Heart That Turns Wolves Into Lambs” with their delegates Ms. Rosea Marie Monsay and Ms. Felina Narvaez, LVF youth and staff of the Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. in Valdocco and Colle Don Bosco, Italy. Three hundred seventy-six (376) youth representatives, lay collaborators, FMAs, and SDBs from ninety-three (93) countries actively participated in this Synod. The first days of the Synod centered on guided tours of significant places in building Don Bosco’s oratory, and it continued to unfold in the serene and historically rich setting of Colle Don Bosco, the birthplace of St. John Bosco and the very place where he had his life-changing dream at the age of nine. The collaborative effort and unity among the young delegates in reading, studying, and reflecting on the Instrumentum Laboris (Working Document), then gathering into small groups of about ten participants to talk, express, and exchange ideas where each shared their dreams for themselves, society, and the Salesian Youth Movement (SYM), is a testament to the strength of the Salesian community. The information gathered on the small circles was presented in the general assembly. The discussions repeatedly emphasized the need for the young to be protagonists in this present time. On the other hand, the SDB and FMA drafted the decalogue and presented it during the general assembly. To walk on the path that Don Bosco once walked on is a goose-bump experience! His life was not grand—scarce even. But his dream persisted and shaped the world with his faith in the Lord, and in Mama Mary, it continues to inspire us after 200 hundred years. Ms. Rosea and Ms. Felina shared their learnings: “Don Bosco’s dream is alive! It still lives on today in us! I hope and pray that no matter what occurs in life, we never give up on our dreams. As long as our dreams are aligned with God’s, they will persevere. They will come true. They are going to endure.” The two added that Synod on Don Bosco’s Dream at Nine inspired them to become positive influences and accompanying presences to their peers. Participating in this Synod is a meaningful milestone for Rosea and Ms. Felina. Most importantly, it is significant for the mission they are currently involved in as social workers and educators at the Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. “I am convinced why God put me here —to be available and answer His call.” Ms. Rosea added. The Synod concluded in celebration of Don Bosco’s birthday at midnight on August 16 with the then-Rector Major, now Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, SDB.

TRAINOR’S TRAINING: EMPOWERING YOUNG PEOPLE

Aug. 24-26. Seven (7) LVF’s Child advocates spearheaded the Trainor’s Training of Child Rights: Advocates and Facilitators Barangay Children’s Association (BCA) Camp 2024 for three days at Wood Side Farm and Waterparks, Cabuyao, Laguna, at the invitation of Ms. Emy India, Social Worker at CSWD-Office of Sta. Rosa, Laguna. Thirty-six (36) Barangay Children’s Associations (BCA) and eighteen (18) adult mentors actively participated in the sessions. Under Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which states that every child has the right to be heard and consulted in all matters affecting them, this training empowers children as child rights advocates. It aims to create a network of Child Rights Advocates and Facilitators to initiate child-led advocacies in schools and communities in the City of Sta. Rosa. The training was composed of seven (7) sessions: (a) Categories of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, focusing on children’s survival, protection, development, and participation, the core set of life skills; (b) Value Clarification, Building Self-esteem, Problem-Solving/ Decision Making, Critical Thinking, Creative Thinking, and Goal Setting, (c) Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC), were discussed by the girls. In conclusion, the participants developed a Communication Plan and Commitment to sustain the advocacy agenda. The program ended successfully, and the LVF girls learned much during the three-day event. According to Jelai, Arriane, Remy, and Jaz, everyone worked together and supported each other. It was also an excellent experience for them, as they were able to train their fellow young people and create an inclusive society where every child has the right to express their opinions, be an agent, and protect their rights.

LVF CHILD ADVOCATES JOIN MIKSKO WORKSHOP

Aug. 30- Sept. 01. Three (3) LVF Child Advocates, Remy, Jho, and Amy, actively participated in the three-day MIKSKO (Comics Workshop) organized by the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) in partnership with Consuelo Zobel Alger Foundation. The participants were taught how to draft a storyline for a comic book and drew sketches of how they would translate the stories through pictures or animations. Amy shared that “the activities helped her to enhance her artistic side, and she was encouraged to communicate with her fellow representatives to achieve their goals.” 

CIAO-SPR IN THAILAND 

Aug. 09-13. Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA (Youth Ministry Coordinator-Ph and LVF Managing Director) actively participated in the Provincials and Provincial Councilors of the Inter-Provincial Conference of East Asia (CIAO) and the South Pacific Region (SPR) gathered at the Ban Than Phraphorn Gathering Center in Samphran, St. Mary Mazzarello Province (THA) to participate in the Seminar “For Generative Animation.”
Photos from: Flickr FMA

LVF MACARASCAS-PALAWAN

LVF MACARRASCAS WELCOMES SR. ENA, FMA
Aug. 01. With a short program, The Laura Vicuña Foundation welcomed our visitors, Sr. Ena Bulaños FMA, our institute administrator, and Sr. Maria Josefina Carrasco FMA. Sr. Ena delivered a brief but inspirational message. Financially, she said, “We can find true happiness in Christ. He is our friend. And we can reach our dreams through His grace. On the same day, she visited Taytay with the LVC Community and talked to Bishop Pabillo about the mission of the Salesian Sisters assigned to the Vicariate of Taytay.

TESDA ANNIVERSARY

Aug. 8. Sr. Lyn Grace and the staff participated in the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Anniversary at Robinson Palawan.

RCEF TRAINEES PRACTICE DRIVING

Aug.10-11. The fifty (50) trainees under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Program (RCEF) practiced driving a PC Series Hand-Held Rice Transplanter machine and tractor.

UST ANGELICUM REAP OPENING OF CLASSES

Aug. 14. The opening of classes for the UST Angelicum (Reentry Education Agenda for the Poor) REAP program was held. There were thirteen (13) learners, including three (3) Grade 11 and One (1) Grade 5 students from Baurang Elementary School.

LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN COMPLETES TRAINING IN AGRO ENTERPRISE CLUSTERING APPROACH

Aug. 14. Ms. Matet and Sr. Lyn Grace attended and completed the Seedling Success: Training in Agro Enterprise Clustering Approach at Donfourdos Integrated Forum in Brgy. Ramon Magsaysay Aborla, Palawan.

TECHNICAL BRIEFING ON CROP DIVERSIFICATION

Aug. 21. Sr. Lyn Grace M. Palanca, FMA, attended the seminar regarding Technical Briefing on Crop Diversification at Dang Maria’s Manalo Ext., Puerto Princesa City.

LVF MACARASCAS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH WESTERN PALAWAN UNIVERSITY

Aug. 16. Western Palawan University (WPU) started its extension services at LVF Macarascas, Palawan. As a learning site of UST Angelicum, the learners have benefited from WPU’s extension services for more than five years. The university’s math, Science, and MAPEH teachers take turns assisting, guiding, and teaching the learners. The university comes weekly to complete the ten sessions per subject.

WELCOME TO LVF MACARASCAS VIDES VOLUNTEERS

Aug. 21. Laura Vicuña Foundation welcomed Sr. Melanie Pilar and the 10 VIDES volunteers. One of them will stay in LVC -Palawan as a VIDES Volunteer.  They had their lunch, and the learners welcomed them with songs.  The VIDES Volunteers will remain in Taytay for their mission camp. The VIDES Philippines Volunteers Foundation Incorporated, in partnership with the Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco, donated ten new paddle boats to 30 families. The beneficiaries were overjoyed at the generous gifts, which will undoubtedly support the families’ sustainability.  Aug. 26. Our new VIDES Volunteer, Ms. Jacinda Helld, a nineteen (19) year-old nursing student from America, arrived at LVC-Palawan to stay for four (4) months and help in our mission, especially by assisting and tutoring our girls. Our learners, together with the sisters and VIDES volunteers, are actively involved in gardening every day. This hands-on experience fosters a deeper connection with the environment and helps them contribute to our food supply. Gardening is essential for preserving our environment and ensuring sustainability. 

STARTING THE SY ‘24-’25 WITH A MASS

Fr. Eco celebrated a Holy Eucharist at the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year at LVF-Palawan. During the Holy Mass, Fr. Eco invoked the Holy Spirit to guide and enlighten the entire EC community throughout the academic year. The congregation prayed for the students, the staff, and the sisters for spiritual growth, academic success, and overall well-being. The Holy Mass was a solemn occasion that set an optimistic and spiritually uplifting tone for the start of the school year.

LVF MALIHAO- NEG. OCC.

NATIONAL TECHNICAL VOCATIONAL DAY
Aug. 27. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Malihao celebrated the National Technical Vocational Day with the theme “Tech-Voc Tungo sa Pag-unload at Pagbangon; Angking Talino at Kakayahan, Linangin at Isulong.” The students from Senior High School and the TVET demonstrated their diverse skills and competencies in various activities such as cooking, where they prepared a delicious dish using egg as the main ingredient; bed making, where they displayed their attention to the neatness and the process in preparing the bed; and sewing where they made well-designed coin purse, pillowcases, pencil cases, and aprons. The winners and the participants were recognized at the program’s end and received a gift pack and certificate of participation.

SIGNING OF AGREEMENT AND AWARDING OF SCHOLARSHIP CERTIFICATE

Aug. 07. Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, Ms. Ma. Aika F. Tacud, and the 38 TVET scholars attended the Signing of Agreement and Awarding of Scholarship Certificate at Don Alejandro Acuña Yap Quiña Arts and Cultural Center, Victorias City.

BOOKKEEPING NC III ASSESSMENT

Aug. 29. Aiming for a brighter future, the seven (7) Bookkeeping Applicants/Candidates: Shavanne Baquiriza, Pearlyn Arucan, John Robin Mendoza, Ricky Velasco, Clyde Cj Caparas, Loriemar Espiritu and Ma. Victoria Seluce took the Bookkeeping NC III Assessment at the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) – Talisay City.

MONITORING OF THE OPENING OF CLASSES OF PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Aug. 06. Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, Technical Directress, Ms. Ailene M. Ondon, School Registrar, and Sir Rino N. Barrido, Academic Coordinator, welcomed the Schools Division of Victorias Personnel Sir Giovanni Wray A. Estrano – Education Program Specialist II, Regina N. Bonda – Senior Education Program Specialist II, Glaizelle L. Po – Senior Education Program Specialist Human Resources Development as they conduct the Monitoring of the Opening of Classes of Private Schools. The team roamed around the school, checking the classrooms and facilities that the school provides to the students. The team’s monitoring ended in a colloquy with the technical director, school registrar, and academic coordinator.

MEETING WITH THE DEP- ED OFFICIALS FOR ACCOUNTANCY, BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT (ABM) STRAND VALIDATION FOR APPROVAL  

Aug. 01. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Malihao came together to celebrate faith as it held the traditional Mass to the Holy Spirit. Through this mass, the school believed it was a powerful way to invoke the guidance and power of the Holy Spirit as they embarked on a new academic year. The mass, held at the school’s Multi-purpose Hall, was presided over by Fr. John Cardinal. As they gathered, they prayed for a successful and fruitful year filled with personal learning and growth, faith, hope, and love for God. On the same day after the Holy Mass, Sr. Ma. Guia S. Asparen, FMA, School Directress, Ms. Ailene M. Ondon, School Registrar, and Sir Rino N. Barrido, Academic Coordinator, attended via online the validation meeting for Application for Program Registration (ABM – Strand) with Ma’am Jingky L. Dioso, PhD, Education Program Supervisor Quality Assurance Division, Ma’am Ronamie V. Reliquias, PhD, Chief, School Governance and Operations Division, and other officials in the Schools Division of Victorias City.

DEP-ED MEETING

Aug. 13: Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, Technical Director, and Sir Darrenz M. Caberoy, Co-curricular, attended the Department of Education (DepEd) meeting facilitated by Mr. Rufino L. Delfin Jr. (Education Program Supervisor TLE/ EPP Schools Division Office—Victorias City), with the agenda “National Voc-Tech Day 2024.” The meeting discussed the history of National Tech Voc Day and the upcoming schedule of activities.  Meanwhile, Ms. Ailene M. Ondon and Sir Kenneth John P. Cornelio visited Subay Marketing Envirotech Inc. for a site visit at the Subay Marketing Envirotech Inc. located in  Brgy. Sto. Niño, EB Magalona. Ms. Vanesa Paola Ymballa, Subay Marketing In-charge, introduced to them, as they roamed around the shop, the raw materials their shop used in recycling and creating new products such as furniture, pots and planters, picnic tables, school chairs, benches, garbage bins, bricks, paddle, pallet, skateboard, etc. She also encouraged the two to practice recycling materials, especially plastic bottles, in their houses and the school where they work.

ONE TOWN, ONE PRODUCT INTRODUCTION

Aug. 12. Ms. Ma. Aika F. Tacud represented the school as she attended the One Town, One Product Introduction activity held by the city government at the Local Economic Development and Investment Office in Victorias City. The companies and the small entrepreneurs of the city attended the activity. Moreover, they all got the chance to mingle with each other and introduce their products. The importance of One Town, One Product, and its benefits to small entrepreneurs was introduced to the attendees/ participants. The last part of the activity was the decision-making; the entrepreneurs were asked if they wanted to display their products to the OTOP Hub and sell them on consignment through the Local Economic Development and Investment Office.

LVF TRAINING CENTERS JOIN THE STUDY-VISIT IN MALAYSIA AND SINGAPORE

Aug. 26-28. Sr. Sheila, FMA, LVF-Cubao, QC Economer, Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA with Sir Rino N. Barrido-Malihao, and Sr. Rosalia Panganiban, FMA-LVF Macarascas Palawan joined the study visit of the Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco on Best Practices of TVET Institutions in Malaysia where they undertook a series of benchmarking and visited TVET institutions in Malaysia and Singapore focusing on diploma programs. On their first journey, upon arriving at Politeknik Port Dickson (PPD) Malaysia, they were welcomed by the unique musical presentation. Fortunately, they witnessed the innovation expo that day and were amazed by the innovation and invention; their students excel in their fields. They also attended a conference where the school discussed their best practices and programs offered. Later that day, they visited one of the school’s partner industries and explained the beauty of architecture and how they give importance to preserving its culture while going through innovation. On the second day, they continue the journey in Kolej Kemahiran Tinggi MARA Masjid Tanah (KKTM). Like the first school, they also introduced their best practices and offered diploma programs. The participants were fascinated by the opportunities and support the school gives the students and how the government supports the school’s needs, especially in finances. The school also ensures that students gain what they have worked for. Continuing their study visit in Singapore, the two visited the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) College East. They were mesmerized by the vast use of technology in teaching. Singaporeans are enthusiastic people because they use all their means to solve specific problems; for example, in their food, they rely on imports, but now the ITE is developing Horticulture, where they create and nurture their food inside the building. This institution also helps equip students to maintain the country. Their study visit ended at Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP), an institution known for engineering and Information Technology (IT). They were amazed by their facilities, which have many inventions that could help make daily life easier. Also, the government supports the school, which secures its financial needs. In this way, the school can upgrade its equipment to suit the students’ future skills. Sr. Sheila, Sr. Ernielyn, Sr. Rose, and Sir Rino recognized that the study visits significantly contributed to their learning and look forward to implementing these insights in their institutions. Last August 26 to September 1, 2024, the academic program of the TVET institution in Malaysia for the Don Bosco Salesian Sisters at Politeknik Port Dickson, in collaboration with the industry partner at Anjung Klana, Batu 4 (an architecture industry), involved seven TVET schools: LVF-Cubao, Palawan, Malhao, MHCCS-Canlubang, MHCS-Mindoro, MOTW-Cebu, Pampanga, and MHC-East Boroka, Papua New Guinea. Fifteen participants participated in the study visit, including eleven sisters and four lay teachers or trainers. From the LVF Technical Schools, Sr. Sheila, Sr. Erneilyn, and Sr. Rosalia attended the study tour.

BUWAN NG WIKA 2024 “FILIPINO: WIKANG MAPAGLAYA”

Aug. 22. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Malihao and Macarascas Palawan celebrated the Buwan ng Wika 2024 with the theme “Filipino: Wikang Mapaglaya” held at the school’s Multi-purpose Hall. Student participants showcased their talents in the following contests: “Dagli-ang Talumpati,” singing of OPM songs, spoken poetry/ tula, poster making, a debate on the importance of the Filipino language over the English language, and a dance contest. The winners of each contest and the students who wore the best costume were given a certificate and a gift pack as their prizes. The celebration ended with a photo opportunity, during which everyone’s smiles were full of life and energy while wearing and representing the national costumes.

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

SOLIDARITYSERYE
LVF BALIK-ESKWELA
August is the start of the new school year. With this, LVF prepared and distributed notebooks, ball pens, pencils, papers, and other school supplies to our Child Protection Clinic communities! Sheena, one of LVF girls who packed the school supplies said “masaya ako na nakakatulong sa kapwa ko Kabataan sa pamamagitan ng pakikibahagi ko sa pagprepare at pagbibigay ng mga school supplies. Nakakataba nang puso makita ang pagliwanag ng mga mukha ng mga bata sa tuwing tinatanggap nila ang mga bag.” (I’m glad to be of help with other young people, especially the kids, by helping in preparing and distributing school supplies. Seeing the joy on the kids’ cheeks when they open the bags is really touching.)

LVF CATECHESIS

Every Sunday, LVF Sisters Sr. Phebe Lacse, FMA, and Sarah Grace Robas, FMA, along with our social workers, simultaneously facilitated the weekly onsite catechesis at the LVF Center in Cubao and in distant Child Protection Clinic (CPC) areas in Cavite, Marikina, and Botocan.

PASWI COP

The Philippine Association of Social Workers Inc. (PASWI), for more than three years now, has its continuing commitment to pause, rest, recharge, and meditate through prayer in the Circle of Prayer (COP) every Wednesday night led by Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana and ED Eva Ponce DeLeon and PASWI’s various local chapters nationwide. This Wednesdate habit allows social workers to converse with their fellow social workers, kumustahan (say hellos). The Circle of Prayer is a time to pray for peace, the healing of social workers, their friends, and family members, and, more significantly, to reflect and share the Word of God.

by mir321

July 2024 News

THE LIGHT OF JULY

July, the month after midyear, is a month for recharging, renewal, and preparation to follow the light as LVF continues the journey to achieve the vision and mission for the year. In this sacred time, we are reminded to listen to the whispers of our souls and follow the path that brings us closer to our purpose, especially with the schedule of set activities such as the Salesian Youth Movement CIAO Camp, Counter Trafficking and LVF #iamBRAVE Movement. 

July brought some beautiful surprises, with LVF being chosen as the Investment House Association of the Philippines (IHAP) charity, a recognition of the great work LVF does for disadvantaged children and youth and the community’s incredible support.

LVF played a pivotal role in disaster response during the super typhoon Carina, which wreaked havoc in many areas of the country. This is a testament to the significant and impactful work LVF is doing in the community, a reason for all of us to feel relevant and reassured.  

It is the season of harvest and plenty as the earth peaks. This natural cycle reflects the human experience, as individuals and entities like LVF frequently evaluate their accomplishments and establish new objectives for the upcoming months.

LVF CUBAO, QC
LVF @ #SYMCIAOCAMP 2024!
LVF #EndHumanTrafficking ADVOCACY CAMPAIGN
LVF AND ISRAEL BOND: BRIDGING CULTURAL AND RELIGIOUS DIFFERENCES!
IHAP SUPPORT LVF PROGRAM FOR CHILD PROTECTION AND EMPOWERMENT!
TRAINING ON CASE MANAGEMENT
LVF DISASTER RESPONSE
LVF IS FLU-VAXXED!
 LVF DISASTER RESPONSE

LVF MALIHAO
HOUSEKEEPING NC II ASSESSMENT
TRAINEES’ DEPLOYMENT TO PARTNER COMPANIES
TEACHER TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT SEMINAR
BOOKKEEPING NC III TRAINER’S METHODOLOGY I
SYM CIAO CAMP 2024
STUDENTS ORIENTATION

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN
LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN TRAINEES PREPARE SEEDBEDS FOR RICE!
PATIO AGRICULTURAL FARM MEETING
THE CITY AGRICULTURE HEAD VISITS LVF MACARASCAS
PRODUCE ORGANIC FERTILIZER, FIRST BATCH TRAINEES
LVF PALAWAN TRAINEES PRACTICE DRIVING
LAURA VICUNA FARM, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PALAWAN STATE UNIVERSITY

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
LVF SOLIDARITYSERYE!
 WEEKLY CATECHESIS
 PASWI-COP

LVF @SYM CIAO CAMP 2024 

July 29-Aug. 02. The FMA Philippine province hosted the SYM CIAO (Conferenza Interispettoriale Asia Orientale) Youth Camp held in Mornese Center of Spirituality in Pansol Laguna. Two hundred seventy campers from nine (9) countries participated in this Asian celebration for the Bicentenary of the Dream at Nine of Don Bosco.  #SYMCIAOCAMP 2024 theme is YOUNG DREAMERS: EMPOWERING DREAMS FOR A JUST AND SUSTAINABLE WORLD. The camp’s theme highlights the role of young people’s dreams and how they shape their lives, affecting the family, the community, and the country to which they belong. It is a message of hope and optimism for the future from which we can all take inspiration. It was an excellent opportunity for LVF Centers in Sta. Mesa, Quezon City, Palawan, Negros Occidental: Christopher Angelo Legaspi; Remelyn Olediana and Samantha Villa; Mary Joelyn Arellano; Sir Kenneth John P. Cornelio, SYM Animator; and Ria May Ramores, a Senior High School student, respectively. FMA Sisters working for LVF centers with their lay mission partners also formed part of the working team. The six (6) youths participated with joy and optimism in the meaningful activities of the said camp, where they got the chance to meet new friends, culture exchange, and participate in the Plenary Talks and five campsite sessions:  ‘Don Bosco’s Dream and Youth Leadership’ with Fr. Eli Cruz, SDB, Dream Sessions in different modalities;  sessions on the Laudato Si at the SVD Seminary, commitment building; witness the awe-inspiring Taal Volcano, and the Barrio Fiesta festival night.

Mary Jojelene Arellano said, “…the camp felt like I was at home… One of the things I learned at that camp is to dream with dedication… and trust in yourself because you cannot achieve your dream if you do not believe in yourself. Also, one of the things that stuck in my mind was the phrase, ‘Dreams help us prepare for our future.’ So, as a young person, I will fulfill my dream for my future and the world. Thank you very much.”

Sr. Teresita Padron, FMA-Philippine Provincial, stressed the importance of the Dream of Don Bosco as a milestone of the Salesian charism and recalled that the encounter also wants to be a concrete response to Pope Francis’s appeal to take care of and safeguard the planet.

The contagious, joyful, and youthful presence of Sr. Runita Borja, FMA, General Counselor for Youth Ministry, graced the celebration Sr. Ena Bolanos, FMA, Councillor for Administration, also gave the campers a good night.

Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, the Youth Ministry Coordinator, and LVF Managing Director emphasized to the young people that God’s ultimate dream is for them to be happy. She also acknowledged and thanked all the working teams behind the success of the 5-day CIAO camp.

LVF #EndHumanTrafficking ADVOCACY CAMPAIGN

Laura Vicuña Foundation joins the 10th World Day Against Trafficking in Persons with the theme “Leave no child behind in the fight against human trafficking.” The LVF social workers, Ms. Josielyn Hugo & Ms. Angie Villaren, conducted a session in our CPC areas, Hillcrest, Judge Jiminez, and Pinagkaisahan, to raise awareness and strengthen the protection of children and adults from Human Trafficking.

LVF AND ISRAEL BOND: BRIDGING CULTURAL AND RELIGIOUS DIFFERENCES

Israel and LVF are partners. They communicated first-hand during their visits and encounters between the two communities. While our beliefs and practices have been significantly different, there are also points of convergence and shared values. Our love for the LVF girls bridged the two; as Ambassador Ilan Fluss said, “LVF has an extraordinary place in our hearts.” Rabbanit Elisheva Goldschmidt, the wife of the Rabbi of the Jewish Association of the Philippines, has an exceptional love and fondness for the LVF girls. She visits them at the center every month, sharing her talents and teaching them singing techniques. Shortly before their family was transferred to another country, she sponsored a song recording of the girls. The LVF kids hold her very dear, as a mother, to their hearts. 

IHAP SUPPORT LVF PROGRAM FOR CHILD PROTECTION AND EMPOWERMENT

July 13. The Investment House Association of the Philippines (IHAP) has chosen LVF as its beneficiary! The girls from our Center-based program and community performed a dance and song number during the donation turnover. IHAP promotes better understanding of the role and functions of investment houses and to enhance their contribution to the growth of Philippine business and the economy mainly through the development of the capital market. LVF Board of Directors Mr. Francisco Dizon was one of IHAP’s former presidents (1987-1988).

TRAINING ON CASE MANAGEMENT

July 15-19. LVF Social Worker representative Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo attended the five-day (5) comprehensive Training on Social Work Case Management to LGUs: Enhancing Working with Individuals at Sequoia Hotel, Quezon City, conducted and organized by DSWD Academy. The training was designed to improve the competencies of Social Workers practitioners from various Local Government Units and the Centers/Residential Care Facilities of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), which serves as the frontline of social work case management.Throughout the training period, social workers received lectures and workshops to equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to manage cases for their clients. The DSWD Academy also allows the Social worker participants to benchmark the two centers, the Residential and Study Center for Children (RSCC) and Golden Reception and Action Center for Elderly and Other Special Cases (GRACES), to see the actual process of case management. At the end of the training, ASEC Janet P. Armas, Standard and Capacity Building Group, told her closing message: “Treasure, not in gold, but in knowledge.” The training ended with 35 trainees from different LGUs and NGOs across the Philippines receiving certificates of appreciation.

LVF DISASTER RESPONSE

July 24. With the devastation of Typhoon Carina, many of our Child Protection Communities were in evacuation centers. We at LVF prepared and distributed hot soup to our CPC communities, which were significantly affected by the typhoon.

LVF IS FLU-VAXXED

July 05. Thank you, Dra. MJ Torres, owner and Medical Director of the Zen Institute, for the thirty-three (33) flu vaccine jabs to the Sisters, Girls, and Staff.

LVF MALIHAO-NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

HOUSEKEEPING NC II ASSESSMENT
July 02-05. Thirty-eight (38) Hotel and Restaurant Services (HRS) Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) trainees of the Laura Vicuna Foundation – Malihao participated in the Housekeeping NC II Assessment at Silay Institute, Silay City. The experienced assessor who conducted the assessment, Mr. Lourence Sembrano, meticulously evaluated the trainees’ skills and knowledge under the watchful eye of a Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) representative. Each day, the trainees were accompanied by their teachers, providing support and guidance throughout the four-day evaluation period. 

TRAINEES’ DEPLOYMENT TO PARTNER COMPANIES

On July 02, 12, and 14, twelve (12) Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) trainees were deployed to various companies and schools in different locations. The trainees were accompanied by Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, and Sr. Ma. Guia S. Asparen, FMA and Ms. Ma. Socorro C. Bayles, Industrial Coordinator. On those days, Sr. Guia and Ms. Socorro visited the trainees in their respective offices.

TEACHER TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT SEMINAR

July 8-9. Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, Technical Directress, together with the faculty Ms. Maybelle Capillanes, Ms. Ma. Socorro C. Bayles, Ms. Ma. Victoria V. Seluce, Sir Rino N. Barrido, Sir Kenneth John P. Cornelio and Sir Darrenz M. Caberoy embarked on a journey to the beautiful island of Cebu, to participate in a stimulating seminar focusing on two key topics: Enriching Classroom Experiences through Gamification and Promoting Student Engagement in the 21st Century Classroom. The seminar, held at Mary Our Help Technical Institute for Women in Minglanilla, Cebu, was filled with fun and new learning, mainly because the renowned speaker, Dr. Mark Gleen O. Cidro, Author and Trainer, delivered a dynamic presentation highlighting the importance of Gamification in the 21st-century classroom, the evolving needs of today’s learners, and the crucial role of educators. Participants explored various strategies to incorporate game-based learning into their classrooms. 

BOOKKEEPING NC III TRAINER’S METHODOLOGY I

July 11. The school is incredibly proud of the accomplishment of Sr. Ma. Guia S. Asparen, FMA, after passing the Bookkeeping NC III Trainer’s Methodology I at TESDA – Talisay City. This success was achieved through her hard work and dedication, guided by God’s grace and a testament to her unwavering commitment to her students and her pursuit of excellence.

STUDENT’S ORIENTATION

July 29. The warmth of welcome washed over the new students as they entered the school to attend the student’s orientation. It was the first day of school, and the whole community of Laura Vicuna welcomed the SY 2024-2025 students with open arms and sweet smiles. That day, the school’s vision, mission, institutional values, rules and regulations, fees, activities, and the 5’s of good housekeeping were discussed.

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN TRAINEES PREPARE SEEDBEDS FOR RICE
July 6. The twenty-five (25) trainees under the RESP (Rice Extension Services Program Scholarship Program in Palawan prepared seedbeds to plant rice.

PATIO AGRICULTURAL FARM MEETING

On June 9, Ms. Matet P. Palma and Sr. Lyn Grace M. Palanca, FMA, attended the meeting at Patio Agricultural Farm, Bgy. Sta. Monica PPC, conducted by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Palawan.

THE CITY AGRICULTURE HEAD VISITS LVF MACARASCAS

On July 10, the head of City Agriculture of Puerto Princesa City, Ma’am Melissa U. Macasaet, visited the center and brought 100 hills of grafted kalamansi seedlings.

PRODUCE ORGANIC FERTILIZER; FIRST BATCH TRAINEES

July 12. Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. Macarascas Palawan happily started the first training batch on Produce Organic Fertilizer under the Special Training for Employment Program (STEP) Scholarship from TESDA. On July 16, another batch started training under the same training course.

LVF PALAWAN TRAINEES PRACTICE DRIVING

July 13. Twenty-five (25) Trainees under RESP practice driving the four-wheel tractor. Under the RESP (Rice Extension Services Program), TESDA offers agriculture-related courses such as Farm Field School on Production of High-Quality Inbred Rice and Seed Certification and Farm Mechanization, Rice Machinery Operations, Drying and Milling Plant Servicing NC III, Agro-entrepreneurship NC II, Pest and Nutrients Management, and Digit.

LAURA VICUNA FARM, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PALAWAN STATE UNIVERSITY

July 19. Laura Vicuña Farm is one of the partner agencies of Palawan State University (PSU)-San Rafael, along with Real Farms and Agbayani Farms, accepting trainees with 240 hours of field training. This month, we concluded the field training of 1st—and 3rd-year Bachelor of Science in Agriculture trainees at LVF Multipurpose Hall. Sr. Lyn Grace, FMA, LVF Palawan Technical Director, along with the farm owners, staff, and workers of the three farms, graced the activity. 

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

July 07: LVF distributed two hundred (200) kilos of bacon to its Child Protection Clinic Communities with the donation of Zoi’s Meatown, which celebrated its 13th anniversary! Along with the bacon, we also distributed bread from RFM Corporation, Breadtalk and Purple Oven. This was also in line with the Meaningful Global Forgiveness Day.

WEEKLY CATECHESIS

LVF weekly catechesis continues to strengthen the faith and nourish the spiritual relation of its Child Protection Clinic (CPC) participants, providing concrete and realistic situations and our close relationship with Jesus just like how “He revealed Himself to be in solidarity with our frail human nature… He experienced what we, too, must prepare ourselves to confront: life comprises challenges, tests, crossroads, opposing views, hidden seductions, contradictory voices…The Holy Spirit guides the people of God towards Jesus our hope.” Pope Francis.  

PASWI-COP

Every Wednesday night, Social Workers all over the Philippines have a moment of prayer called the Circle of Prayer (COP), co-hosted by the different chapters of the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI). In this prayer Wednesdate habit, Social Workers pray that “may this gathering be a source of encouragement, unity and inspiration for all of us.” In all our efforts and work, “we may be guided by God’s wisdom and be surrounded by His protective hand…” One of our sharers from Siquijor, Ms. Anonee Ponce, encouraged us to “seek God always.” Ma’am Eva Ponce de Leon, PASWI Executive Director, and Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA, PASWI National Vice President, lead this Lectio Divina and prayer gathering of social workers nationwide.