ALTOGETHER THIS SEPTEMBER

The Laura Vicuna Foundation experienced strongly this September our being ‘ALTOGETHER’ as in a real family.  Indeed, we cannot achieve everything we’ve had this month if even one among us refused to give his/her valuable contribution be it in planning and implementing set activities. 

“We are all in it together” LVF Sisters, Staff, young people, parents, lay volunteers, WE ARE AN EDUCATING COMMUNITY ON THE GO!  In this time of the Pandemic our Educating Community has blended well in terms of coordination and collaboration; everybody has something to give: the girls bake goodies, pack food and rice with the Sisters while our Staff, lay volunteers do the Child Protection Communities coordination, online advocacies etc. We are more than happy to have each other’s back constantly.

• LVF YOUTH ASSEMBLY 2021 “@ LVF, GUSTO NAMIN SAFE KA! (Support Advocacy on Feminine Empowerment) RA
• LVF’s blessing of the SOLAR PANELS on the feast of Our Lady of Rosary
• LVF-TVET OPENING THIS SCHOOL
• LVF celebrates Season of Creation with the Church
• LVF SOLIDARITY serye
• Ms. Quinonero for passing the 2021 LESW

LVF YOUTH ASSEMBLY FOR A THOUSAND YOUTH

(Philippines). On 19 September 2021, on its 31^st anniversary celebration, the LVF Virtual National Youth Assembly was held online, organized by the  Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF) of St. Mary Mazzarello Province (FIL) – partnership between the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians and lay professionals / collaborators to address sexual harassment and bullying faced by both men and women and safety issues in public and online spaces. This also helped the young to identify protective behavior which will ensure their safety.
 
Facilitated by trained LVF youth advocates Ms.Hannah Yap, Ms. Jessabelle Cos and Ms. Edralyn Abia, they underscored various studies which showed that both men and women can do & experience sexual harassments and bullying which creates hostile and unsafe environment for children, the young, and even adults in schools, public places, workplaces and even online! Thus to protect boys and girls, men and women, Republic Act 11313 or the SAFE SPACES ACT was passed as a law in the Philippines penalizing the acts of catcalling, wolf whistling, intrusive gazing, leering, etc.
 
About a 1,000 youths and adults coming from schools and communities in Palawan, Leyte, DepEd Cadiz, Eulogio Rodriguez Elementary School-Mandaluyong, Cebu, Mindanao, Man-it Integrated School-Iloilo, Escalante, Victorias, LVF-CPC Marikina, Botocan, Culiat, Hillcrest, Bacood, Cavite, & Pinagkaisahan joined and participated in the said Assembly.
 
Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, FMA, LVF’s Managing Director said that “LVF is God’s greatest blessing to us all. At LVF, there is no room nor space for belittling, degradation and abuse that violates the dignity of every human. Love, appreciation and respect is the bloodline of every member of the Laura Vicuña Family.”
 
After the session, the participants drew their own shield as their commitment. Most of them shared tips on how to keep themselves safe in public and online spaces. One of the participants said that in confronting incident of harassment, make sure to save evidences for filing of formal complaint or case, reach out for help, protect your social media account. The boys committed to respect women and the girls also enunciated the importance of decently presenting yourself, wearing of decent clothes as one of their protective behavior as their safety nets.

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LVF’S BLESSING OF THE SOLAR PANELS ON THE FEAST OF OUR LADY OF ROSARY!

Oct. 07, 2021. The Laura Vicuña Foundation-Educating Community in Quezon City come together, rejoicing, for the Solar Panel blessing! We are very grateful to Roterkeil thru Don Bosco Mondo-Germany for the great blessing of the Solar Panel grant to LVF as part of our Laudato Si’ campaign! This new source of energy will not only help LVF in reducing its electric bill consumption, most especially, it is significantly better for the environment.

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LVF SOLIDARITYserye

For the month of September, one thousand six hundred twenty one (1,621) children, youth and parents has joined LVF’s weekly Sunday catechesis facilitated by Sr. Tess Mislang, FMA focusing on the 6^th and 9^th commandments which emphasized the importance of truth, respect and value of life. LVF also distributed 1,800 Dunkin’ Donuts, 527 packs od Pasta noodles, 900 packs of rice, juices, and breads to its Child Protection Clinic Communities in Taguig, Marikina, Botocan, Culiat, Hillcrest, Judge Jimenez, Pinagkaisahan, Mandaluyong, Bacood, Sta. Mesa & Gen. Trias Cavite Heneral Uno, General Trias Cavite, Brgy. Pinagkaisahan and Vicuñans of Provincial House- Sta. Mesa. All of these efforts are made possible with the generosity of LVF’s constant donor Ms. Marie Concepcion Young.

LVF­-TVET OPENS @ QUEZON CITY

LVF is more than pleased to announce the opening of the TVET School here in Quezon City.  The former LVTC Sta. Mesa was transferred with 20 trainees on their Second Year and now with 31 new trainees as First year.  The Educating Community of LVC , LVF Staff and Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana warmly welcomed them on September 22, 2021 and just like the rest of the educational establishments we implement Blended Learning (Online and Modular).  The Two Year Course offered is Business and Office Technology with TESDA NC III Bookkeeping, we hope that this good endeavor begun might truly be for God’s greater glory and the salvation of souls.  Don Bosco and Mother Mazzarello will be more than happy with this addition of members to the LVF family, forming them to be Good Christians and Honest Citizens.

LVF SEASON OF CREATION

September 1 – October 4, 2021 is Season of Creation in the whole Christendom and this year’s theme was A HOME FOR ALL.  The Laura Vicuna Foundation took as one of its main advocacy Care for the Earth and the Laudato Si of the Church.  The LVF Centers of Palawan and Cubao with TVET- QC  had the opportunity to listen and participate in a webinar on the theme of the Season of creation by Ms. Angerica Fesariton and Rev. Fr. Antonio Molavin, SDB of San Ildefonso Parish, Makati City.  It was an afternoon of learning, sharing and enlightenment as both the facilitators and the participants expressed their eagerness to be active citizens saving and preserving God’s gift of creation.  Personal commitment to Laudato Si was given weight more than ‘extravagant’ initiatives as facilitators believe that baby steps done with constancy are the key to change and progress.  This was followed by the revision of the community commitment to Laudato Si, taking as its basis the Provincial Commitments done two years back. 
 
The young people enjoyed too the Dance Interpretation Contest advocating care for the earth and a home for all.  LVC Palawan bagged the First Prize.  Another educative contest was the HUGOT PARA SA KALIKASAN, individual entries were encouraged which evidently encouraged the young to think of ‘hugot’ – slogan to advocate to their fellow youth ecological concern.  Again LVC Palawan’s Ms. Edielyn Joy Orpilla won the first prize while Hannah Babes Yap and Jessabelle Cos got the second and third prize respectively. 
 
We cannot miss thanking and appreciating the very valuable help given us by Sr. Claudia Mae Deypalan, FMA, SYM FIL and SOCCOM FIL in-charge for introducing us to our MHCS Cebu and MHCS Mabalacat Past Pupils as well as to the present Don Bosco Green Alliance Convenor Rev. Fr. Molavin, SDB and the DB Green Alliance EAO Cordinator Ms. Zenaida Ann Miranda.  We want to recognize our LVF Staff for their support and most especially the guidance of Sr. Catherine Urgello,FMA – LVC Palawan Animator and Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana,FMA – LVF Managing Director and LVC Animator for supporting our initiatives and being present among the young in this noble endeavor.  We would like to highlight their wisdom filled words left to us as we conclude the celebration, this Season of Creation Activity does not end here but it continues everyday of our lives.  Let us create a HOME FOR ALL, first, in our hearts then we will be able to embrace the world with creativity and passion to care for what God has gifted us.

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CONGRATULATIONS MS. QUINONERO FOR PASSING THE 2021 LESW

LVF scholar, Ms. Jonna Joy Quiñonero, passed the 2021 Licensure Examination for Social Workers held on August 24-26, 2021!  She graduated her Bachelors Degree in Social Work at Colegio de Sta. Ana de Victorias last July 2, 2021. Your LVF family is tremendously happy to see that you are achieving your dreams! Congratulations.

Flippin’ Through AUGUST 

Come to think of it, we really just flipped through the month of August.  Indeed it was an August rush. Despite the Pandemic, time flies here @LVF; it’s as if it’s just a snap of a finger. For us Salesians it is a very good sign that our young people were kept busy and productive this month.  We cannot but be thankful that we never run out of our creative juices to help them advance, develop and be empowered. This August we rejoice because of the following: 

• LVF National Youth Congress Against Child Labour
• National Children’s Month (NCM) Aug. 16-20, 2021 – Virtual Children’s Brainstorming Sessions  by the Council for the Welfare of Children(CWC)
• Voter’s Education and Big Heart Foundation Film Review
• LVF GIRLS RECEIVED FIRST DOSE OF VACCINE!       
• LVF MANAGING DIRECTOR AS PASWI’s CIRCLE OF PRAYER COORDINATOR
• LVF Sunday Catechesis continue to effect change in the lives our CPC communities
• LVF’s Advocacy Serye

LVF National Youth Congress Against Child Labour

(Philippines). On 27 August 2021, the LVF 2021 Virtual National Youth Congress against child labor was held and organized by the Laura Vicuna Foundation of the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians and lay professionals /collaborators to address the needs and problems of the youth, in St. Mary D. Mazzarello Province (FIL). The United Nations General Assembly has declared 2021 as the International Year for the Elimination of Child Labour.

The youth congress was attended by over 757 children and youth belonging to the communities of the Laura Vicuna Foundation like Gen. Trias Cavite; Napindan Taguig; Marikina; Culiat; Judge Jimenez; Hillcrest; Botocan; Brgy Pinagkaisahan, Bacood, Provincial House in Sta. Mesa and some schools in the National Capital Region, Cebu Province, Iloilo, Samar and the Negros Occidental.

Sr. Maria Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA, LVF Managing Director opened the Congress telling the children/youth that God has a beautiful plan for each of them that they have to discover and realize. However, poverty has driven many of the participants. to work in hazardous environment.  Child labor is a very rampant issue in the Philippines. Children are compelled to work in conditions that are exploitative and damaging to their health and to their mental and physical development just to attain the family’s basic needs. Sr Maria Victoria told the participants that we have come together in this Congress to think on what we can do to solve the problems of child labor in our communities.

LVF Young Advocates 17 year old Hannah Yap and 18 year old Desiree Ligutan and young Social Worker Mr. Ryan Azucena facilitated the Congress proceedings. It was an interactive discussion between the children and youth participants and advocates as they talked about the definition of a child, the 4 categories of the rights of a child, the difference between child work and child labor, the legal framework the  different kinds of hazardous child labor and at the same time breaking the taboos and myths about the Filipino values on the issue where the advocates gave concrete examples depicting child laborers situations in various hazardous workplaces.

Sr. Runita Borja, FMA General Councilor for Youth Pastoral addressed the participants that each of us has a role to play. God has gifted each of us with talents, education and work which each has to develop to the full not only for their personal well-being nor for their families but these talents are meant to be shared for the general good of their communities and the country at large.

As LVF’s contribution to the International Year for the Elimination of Child Labour, the paricipants came up on how together they can help reduce or eliminate child labor. Parents should be responsible to able to supply the needs of their growing kids esp food and education so that they will not go to work while they are still young. In case one witnesses a child laborer he should ask help from the barangay and report it immediately to the Department of Labor and Employment so as to help him. Stop corruption. Parents should be given additional means to earn a living. In conclusion, 17 year old Fernanda Brana of Victorias City, Negros Occ suggested that strengthening and increasing the awareness of the parents & children on children’s rights as well as the harmful effects of hazardous labor for children, would greatly help in lowering the cases of child labor in addition to varied programs which aim to promote child-labor free country.

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LVF SOLIDARITYSERYE

For the month of August, LVF was able to distribute 1, 560 packs of 1 kilo rice; 5, 260 foodpacks (baked brownies and bread with juices); and 730 giftpacks of school supplies to its nine (9) Child Protection Communities! All of these were made possible with the help of Mrs. Marie C. Young who sponsored the brownies mix, juices & bread; to Ms. Ana Ami who also shared her blessings through LVF by sponsoring hundreds of food packs for the community. Truly, we are interconnected individuals who are doing its vital roles in pursuing a more humane society.

LVF CHILD ADVOCATES PARTICIPATES IN THE VIRTUAL CHILDREN’S BRAINSTORMING SESSIONS (CBS)

Aug. 16-20, 2021.The Laura Vicuna Foundation, as a member of the Council for the Welfare of Children, was invited to join in the Virtual Children’s Brainstorming Sessions in relation to the upcoming National Children’s Month (NCM) 2021 on November which will focus on children’s rights in the new normal. Ms. Hannah and Ms. Vicky actively participated in the said activity. Both shared their insights and perceptions about the issues faced by children in their households and the community at large. This four-day activity paved way for them to ardently share their ideas in helping plan the program for the NCM activities.

Vicky has this as her takeaway after the session, “Responsibilidad ng bawat tao, lalong-lalo na ng mga magulang, na protektahan ang kanilang mga anak laban sa online sexual exploitation, ilayo ang kanilang mga anak sa anumang uri ng kapahamakan o karahasan. Ako ay nagagalak na maging participant ng Children’s Brainstorming Session (CBS) dahil ito ay nagpapakita sa pagkilala sa kakayahan ng mga kabataan na gumawa ng mga national child-focused activities na naglalayong mapakinggan ang problemang kinakaharap ng mga bata ayon sa kanilang pananaw.”

[Every person has the responsibility, especially the parents, to protect their children from online sexual exploitation and from any kind of abuse and violence. I am grateful to be a participant in the Children’s Brainstorming Session (CBS) for it showed its acknowledgment of children’s capacity to design national child-focused activities which aimed to listen and tackle issues that children face in their perspective.]

LVF GIRLS RECEIVED FIRST DOSE OF VACCINE

“Masaya, nakakatakot,  pero alam naman namin na ito ay upang mapapanatili ang kaligtasan at pagpapatibay ng sarili laban sa sakit lalong-lalo na sa coronavirus.” said Ed’s, a resident of LVF community and a recipient of Moderna vaccine. LVF is grateful for its Barangay Captain, Hon. Graziella Saab for facilitating the vaccination of the girls and for Quezon City for providing the booster shots to its constituents.

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LVC Girls observed Buwan ng Wika

A nation’s language undoubtedly plays an essential role in the country’s development and posterity.  Here at the Laura Vicuna Center the Sisters and Staff carefully prepared with the girls the observance/celebration of the Buwan ng Wika; hailing our National Language – Filipino in the various engaging activities done.  The theme was “Wikang Filipino sa Panahon ng Pandemya”.  We had the following initiatives:

• Sabayang Bigkas
• Bugtong Bugtungan
• Paligsahan sa Deklamasyon
• Talakayan ukol sa Tema
• Pilipinong Sayaw at tugtugin 

Sr. Candy Carmen Balverde, FMA, tapped her expert friends Mr. and Mrs. Ellen and Josue Pineda to teach the girls the folkdance SUBLI and guitar and ukulele respectively.  Both where so happy and eager to help us in our apostolate to the girls, in fact they are continuing their tutorials to the girls.  Sr. Analyn Guerrero, FMA, on the other hand, spear headed the TALAKAYAN on the theme, she gave an input and asked the girls to do the graphic organizer on the relevance of the Filipino language in the time of the Pandemic done in small groups.  The activity truly helped them to analyze and become critical thinkers.  The PALISAHAN SA DEKLAMASYON improved their self-confidence and creativity, we invited friends – teachers from both the public and private schools as judges that made the girls more excited and eager to present well their declamation pieces.  And since most of them came from the public schools, they presented well the SABAYANG BIGKAS, evoking love for our Filipino language as well as enriched patriotism. It was indeed an educative, creative undertaking for all.  We are more than thankful that our Lord never fails to inspire us in whatever would help the young develop and improve.

LVC GIRLS VOTER’S EDUCATION

Last August 20, 2021 the Ramon Magsaysay, Cubao organized an exclusive streaming of “Si Juan Tamad, ang Diyablo at ang Limang Milyong Boto” a musical play by The Phil. Educational Theater Association (PETA), a Voter’s Education activity for young people especially for the first time voters. It was coupled with a Talk Back Session( /ˈtɔːk.bæk/ [ C ] a discussion of a play or movie after it has been performed, between people who made it or performed in it and people who watched it).  Sr. Candy Carmen, FMA, on the other hand followed it up with a Pagsusuri ng Pelikula, an aid to help our girls express more their thoughts and ideas as well as clarify vague concepts or issues found in the musical play. ‘The beauty of Si Juan Tamad, Ang Diyablo at ang Limang Milyong Boto is found in the message of the story and how it enlightens voters and youths like me to be aware and take part on making one of the biggest decisions our country has to make. It gives us the enthusiasm and strength to never surrender in fighting one of the obvious social ills of our country.’ – Anonymous

We are more than hopeful that our girls will practice what they have learned in this innovative voter’s education.

Another highlight this month of August was the Film Review on GOYO, ang batang Heneral conducted by the Big Heart Foundation. The group found it relevant to discuss this film to the girls first, because it is Buwan ng Wika, second, because Goyo was a youth like them with much immaturity, yet was able to offer his life for the country; saved, he clearly demonstrated valor and patriotism. We marvel at the dedication and support this caring group of professionals are extending to us. We consider them mission partners by LVF in the formation and education of our girls. They never miss out connecting with us and sharing whatever resources they have, we are grateful to them for their dedication and love.   

LVF MANAGING DIRECTOR AS PASWI’s CIRCLE OF PRAYER COORDINATOR

The Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc Circle of Prayer (COP) is expanding its reach each week! Headed by Dir. Eva Ponce de Leon and Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA-COP Coordinator,this Wednesday prayer session has reached Palawan, Misamis Occidental, and Cagayan Chapter as co-hosts.

UNTYING JULY 

The month of July is said to be the warmest as it is the second month of summer in Europe while in countries like ours, the Philippines, it is called the rainy month which implies sense of hominess.  Such is July, warm and cozy, and when we speak of these two words we cannot but feel distinct and special, and when special, gifted! And so we at LVF would like to equate July as a time of UNTYING never ending surprises and gifts, possibilities of growth and becoming. Come and join us as we untie JULY

• #youthhelpingyouth roadtrip re-launch
• LVF Virtual Family Congress
• College Graduation of Jonna Joy Quiñonero
• UST-Angelicum YS Completion
• Participation in the Public Launching of the UNICEF Studies on Child Online Protection
• Health and Nutrition Awareness 2021

LVF 2021 VIRTUAL FAMILY CONGRESS TO FIGHT AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING 

A total of 225 families consisting of 700 persons, from 10 Child Protection Communities (in Brgy. Napindan Taguig, Judge Jimenez, Marikina, Culiat, Bacood, Botocan, Hillcrest, Brgy. Pinagkaisahan, LVC, CPC Sta. Mesa) participated in the Virtual Family Congress organized by the Laura Vicuña Foundation last July 30, 2021, in observance of the World Day against Trafficking in Persons. The Laura Vicuña Foundation is well known in the country as a Non-Government Organization advocating the end of Human Trafficking and Child Labor. The Managing Director, Sr. Marivic P. Sta. Ana, FMA, spearheaded and facilitated the Congress with Mrs. Carla Juncia, RSW (Registered Social Worker) as resource speaker and co-facilitator.

The virtual Congress was a family affair. The participants created synergy as they shared their ideas with the eagerness to learn how to protect youth, children, and even themselves from predators who traffic persons. Mrs. Juncia commendably imparted the objectives of the Congress, the nature and elements of trafficking in persons, the venues, and reasons why persons get trafficked and how they did it. She also gave a rundown of the recent statistics mentioning the top crimes in the country:  crime against persons and properties, drug –related crimes, and cyber-crimes to mention a few. Sr. Marivic engaged the participants in a forum-like discussion. She allowed them to express queries and the challenges they face regarding the topic. It was a topic ‘close to home.’ The parents’ desire to understand more was evident. They also clarified if their previous experiences counted as trafficking in persons or otherwise. The reality of children bound to help their families earn a living even at the expense of their education and safety, surfaced. Parents consider their children partners in providing for the families, keep saying: “Mahirap po ang buhay kaya kailangan tumulong sa paghahanap-buhay ang mga bata. Paano sila mag-aaral kung hikahos din kami sa buhay?”  (Life is hard, children need to help earn a living, how could they attend school if we struggle to live?) A dilemma of countless families faced with extreme poverty – a prey to the various structures of social evil. 

The participants were led to come up with possible solutions to the poverty they face. It is misery that pushes the poor to expose and push the children and youth to risks and perilous conditions, including the growing but denied reality of cybersex sale. With Sr. Marivic’s open stance, emphatic listening, and the already existing bond among the CPC Communities, things were openly discussed and given correct interventions. Before concluding the Congress, all were encouraged to be responsible individuals, “mulat” (a Filipino word which means awake, with eyes open, alert, and well informed), and equipped to uphold the dignity of persons in whatever circumstances they might find themselves. They were also encouraged to report cases of any suspicious or unusual activities in their community especially when it involves children and youth. It was emphasized that families play a crucial role in promoting the culture of Child Protection. Respect for human dignity starts at home, thus the importance of one’s family and community as medium and target of change to create the ripple effect. 

Human trafficking is a multi-billion-dollar form of international organized crime, constituting modern-day slavery (Interpol). Furthermore, these organized crimes prey on the vulnerable, the weak, and the poor. With coercion and deception, victims get trafficked between countries and regions where they are stripped of their autonomy and freedom and forced to work in precarious conditions and often suffer from various forms of abuse, physical, emotional, mental abuse. This heinous crime stripe bares a person of their human dignity and self-respect. There is thus a need for a collaborative effort and resolute commitment between stakeholders, NGO’s, GO’s, and communities to end Trafficking in Persons.  Stand up, Together let us Beat and End Exploitation, Abuse and Trafficking.

LVF YOUTH HELPING YOUTH ROADTRIP 8 CONTINUES

Finally, LVF Youth Helping Youth is back, now on its ROADTRIP ONLINE! Yes, you read it right! After months of planning and deliberations, the LVF Managing Director, Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA, sisters, staff and girls are more than ready to conquer the online world. It entailed series of preparations and adjustments as it becomes more challenging to deliver the workshops’ online.   The girl- facilitators had their share of hesitations and apprehensions as to whether they could be effective because they cannot see all participants nor can do all their creative initiatives because the medium of communication is limited.  But through determination and collaboration, they made it. A facilitators training was organized by Ms. Cendy Deluta, facilitators’ training head, to refresh and calibrate facilitators’ skills and know-how as well as to re-establish ties and strengthen connections among facilitators to be more effective. On July 11, 2021, the LVF Virtual Youth Helping Youth: Follow Your Dream Roadtrip 8 kicked off via google meet! Together with the young people of LVF-CPC Hillcrest, Judge Jimenez, Brgy. Pinagkaisahan, Cubao, Bacood and Botocan on July 14, and Taguig and Marikina on the 18^th of the same month.

MY JOURNEY OF HOPE

By: Jonna Joy Quiñonero

“For I know the plans that I have for you, plans to prosper you, not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

This is my life verse. Everything that happened to me, I know, has a purpose. God has a plan for me, I cannot tell nor predict what could it be, but I trusted His plan for me and left everything to Him. Indeed, He surely guided me on the right path of success.

When I first came here in Negros Occidental, it was quite a challenge because everything was new: the place, the people, the language. But I was prepared to face all those challenges because the thing that I brought here was bigger than my fears and that was my dream of becoming a Social Worker. I was able to survive each year, surpassing one semester after another and before I knew it, I was already a candidate to graduate! I learned so many things from all the experiences I had whether good or not so good. I’ve became self-reliant and I have learned not to give up! You just have to keep moving forward despite the challenges, for your goal. It was not about the number of times you fell but it was about how you stood up and fought again.

And I am beyond blessed with all the people who surrounds me (from teachers, staff and classmates/organization). They have become my support system in a new environment. In addition, Thank-you is not enough to express my sincerest gratitude to Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, LVF Managing Director, for opening such grand opportunity to reach my dreams. I am who I am because of you. Your guidance and encouragement was my light at the end of the tunnel. To the Laura Vicuῆa Foundation including the Sisters, Staff and especially Vicuῆans, you have given me a home full of hope. I will forever be indebted to all of your goodness. You have shed light on my way, hence, I did not go astray; you made sure and made me feel that I was accompanied and not alone in this world.

As I went up on stage to receive my diploma during the 7^th Commencement Exercises of Colegio de Sta. Ana de Victorias on July 04, 2021, my heart swelled with so much joy! Indeed, the theme “Surpassing Challenges in Bringing Quality Education in the New Normal” was manifested in us all! And as I embark onto the next journey of my life, I want to bring back all glory and honor to God, for all His goodness and provision that He so generously and graciously poured upon me. I am now doing my best to focus on my review for the upcoming Licensure Examination for Social Workers on August 24-26, 2021.

UST- ANGELICUM YS 11 COMPLETION CEREMONY

The Laura Vicuna Foundation (LVF) celebrates with the three of our girls who completed their YS 11 at UST Angelicum, equivalent to Grade 10 in regular schools.  The Virtual Completion Ceremony was held on July 05, 2021 at 6:00 in the evening with the theme “Blessed to be a Blessing”. Truly, despite the pandemic, each one of us has become a blessing for each other. Hats off to our three (3) YS 11 completers:  Ms. Hannah Yap, Ms. Mary Ann Ole, and Ms. Tricia Velasquez!  Sure they have experienced doubts and discouragements along their journey but they remained brave and resilient.  We are very proud seeing these girls teary-eyed as they reap the fruits of their hard work.
 
LVF is forever grateful for the unending partnership with the UST Angelicum. For helping hundreds and thousands of children who are eager to learn. Through the UST Angelicum Re-entry Education Agenda for the Poor (REAP) the girls at LVF has access to quality education and a chance to have a better, brighter future.

HEALTH AND NUTRITION AWARENESS @ LVC 
KALUSUGAN #1 PANGALAGAAN

The Laura Vicuna Center, Cubao was one with the Philippines in celebrating the 47^th Nutrition Month. Series and varied activities were meticulously prepared to reach its given objectives.  An opening ceremony was held last July 13 and on her opening remarks, Ms. Monsay emphasized “Ang pagiging malusog ay hindi nangangahulugan na hindi ka na magkakasakit. Ito ay tumtutukoy sa kakayahan ng ating katawan na labanan ang sakit at virus na umaatake sa katawan.” It was a challenge for the girls to maintain cleanliness, to have healthy eating habits taking good care of themselves.
 
Sr. Candy Carmen Balverde, FMA, organized two webinars for the LVC girls and the Provincial House, Sta. Mesa Child Protection via Zoom video conferencing on July 27, with Dr. Nerissa R. Angeles, MD., FPOGS (OB Gyne) as resource speaker on the topic “Menstruation and Feminine Hygiene.” The girls learned proper perennial care and hygiene during menstrual periods, and was also able to raise questions that puzzled them as teenagers and the many myths and changes they see and experience in their bodies that confuse them.
 
On July 28, another webinar was held with Dr. Hilario Erwin Angelis, Rehabilitation Medicine, as resource speaker on BACK CARE. Vicuῆann Edralyn has this to say: “It is our responsibility to take good care of our backs to prevent any serious injury from happening. Learning more techniques on how to properly carry -heavy objects is also important. Avoid unhealthy and stressful lifestyle, overweight, and not sleeping on time because it all triggers serious medical condition.”
 
An Essay Writing Contests on the theme was launched in two categories – one from age 12-15 and second from age 16-22.  Hannah Babes Yap won for the age 16-22 category while Josephine Nadora won for the age 12-15.  Other competitions were;

• The 7-Day Menu Challenge
• Winner: FAT SQUAD (consisting of 6 members)
• Cooking DEMO
• Winner:  FAT SQUAD – CHAMPION

D. BANANA – 1^st Runner Up
Ms. Gardenera – 2^nd Runner Up

• Most Nutritious Menu
• Winner:  D. Banana
• Most Collaborative Group
• Winner: D. Banana

As ever, all were grateful for these very educative and appealing activities.  @LVC we never stop learning, growing and moving.

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PUBLIC LAUNCHING OF THE UNICEF STUDIES ON CHILD ONLINE PROTECTION

The Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. (LVF) was invited by the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) to join the launch of the National Study on Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) in the Philippines and the Philippine Kids Online Survey via Zoom on July 30 (4:00 P.M. – 6:30 P.M.). During the plenary session, the speakers talked about the increase on kids’ screen-time due to lock downs. Technological advancement and easy access to internet may open opportunities and benefits to its consumers but it also poses threats and dangers to children who choose to go online to exposure to risky online opportunities, sexual and unwanted sexual content online, by themselves, without an adult’s presence / assistance. After the plenary session, the participants had the chance to share their thoughts and opinions on the Prevention, Online Safety and Helping Victims of the OSAEC. What was underscored during the session was the revision of schools’ curriculum to include awareness on the issues, series of advocacy sessions in partnership with schools, barangays and parents as a proactive step to prevent and ensure the safety of kids online. It was participated by various non-government organizations, government organizations and school heads as well with the endeavor of child protection against online sexual exploitation. LVF was represented by Ms. Rosea Marie Monsay, RSW.

JUNE Delights @ LVF 

June connotes freshness as it ushers the next half of the year.  It is an invitation to recall what has happened in the first half of the year and offers new opportunity to improve the coming last half. One of the birth-flowers of June is the honeysuckle; it symbolizes letting go of the past and most significantly being fully present in the here and now; which aptly affirms our E News title JUNE DELIGHTS.  To be most present in the “here” is to delight in whatever the “now” offers. For this month of June we delight in … 

• the UST Angelicum REAP exams of our YS Learners
• the active participation of the LVF in the World Day Against Child Labor Celebration
• the Independence Day observance facilitated by the Big Heart Volunteers
• the well-deserved vacation of our UST Angelicum learners which gave way to the Bread and Pastry Contest
• PASWI (Phil. Association of Social Workers, Inc.) webinar on Strengthening the Management, Operation and Oversight of Bahay Pag-Asa and other residential facilities for Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL)

LVF Joins the 2021 World Day Against Child Labor Celebration 

LVF child advocates, Ms. Hannah and Ms. Desiree, joined the three day Training on Children and Youth Advocates Against Child Labor spearheaded by the Department Of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and International Labor Organization (ILO) on June 17-19, 2021. This training aimed to deepen the understanding of children and youth participants on Child Rights and Child Labor, enabling them to become partners in the advocacy against child labor in schools and the communities. “Ang natutunan ko po sa aking pag attend sa training ay mas nabigyang kahulugan at linaw: ang pagkakaiba ng child labor sa child work pati na ang sampung karapatan ng bata at ang kalakip na responsibilidad nito. Ako’y nagagalak sapagkat ako po’y nabigyan ng pagkakataon na “Makibahagi, Makialam, at Magkaisa para sa #BatangMalaya!” said Hannah. (What I learned during the training is that I deepened my understanding of the difference between child labor and child work, also, I have widened my knowledge on children’s rights and the responsibilities it entails. I was so glad to be given the chance to Share, Get Involved and Take Part for #BatangMalaya!”). Furthermore, Desiree also shared “…every child needs to know their rights. I am hopeful that in 2025 and for the years to come, child labor will end so that children may live in a safe environment.”

The Girls also shared in the group LVF’s activities that they enjoyed and at the same time, very educational and practical. They also expressed their desire to re-echo their learning’s from the three day webinar to their fellow Vicuñans and to the community as well. According to the DOLE press release report, “Hundreds of millions of girls and boys throughout the world are engaged in work that deprives them of adequate education, health, leisure and basic freedoms, violating their rights. Of these children, more than half are exposed to the worst forms of child labor such as work in hazardous environments, slavery, or other forms of forced labor, illicit activities such as drug trafficking and prostitution, as well as involvement in armed conflict.” (Text taken from the International Labor Organization (ILO) website). Indeed, combatting Child Labor is moving mountains. It still is one of the greatest challenges and pressing problems we face until today. #ActNowToEndChildLabor

LVF MANAGING DIRECTOR AS RESOURCE SPEAKER @  JUNE  PASWI WEBINAR

June 8-10, 2021 PASWI National organized a Webinar entitled Strengthening the Management, Operation and Oversight of Bahay Pag-Asa and other residential facilities for Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL).  On June 10 at 2:30 in the afternoon, Sr. Marivic P. Sta. Ana, FMA gave an input to 800 Social Work participants in the said webinar with the topic:  “Understanding the Benefit of Spiritual Wellness and Learn How to Engage Clients to Spiritual Learning.” She started by acknowledging the very “Good Job” each and every participant had been doing in their respective areas as service providers, educators, formators of their clients. She affirmed the valid contribution that each one gave in giving hope to the children and youth in conflict with the law and highlighted too the great need for them to nurture their spiritual life and encouraged them to make a personalized Wellness plan for a healthier, holier life. In the second part of her input, she introduced Don Bosco and the System of Education he pioneered known as the Preventive System. Don Bosco believed that in each young person lies an innate goodness that needs to be discovered and developed; young people can only be helped if they feel and know that they are loved and accepted as in a typical family ambient. Reason, Religion and Loving Kindness are the three pillars of the Preventive System which directly appeal to the young’s cognitive, affective and spiritual well-being. Sr. Marivic’s input was well appreciated by the participants through the flood of affirmations in the chat box. “Wellness plan is a must for us service providers as we cannot give what we do not have.  The wellness wheel you have given us is a big help for us to start our own.”  “Positivity is the key to wellness and wholeness”  “Reason, Religion and Loving Kindness will surely work for the Children in Conflict with the Law, we give the reason as to the ‘why’s’ of life, religion as God as their only healer and loving kindness which most of them rarely experienced.” “Appreciation, love and tenderness are the key to engage our clients to change and conversion”  Sr. Marivic in her humility attributed all successes and triumphs to Jesus and His Most Sacred Heart for we are all finite but God can to all things for us.

LVF ONLINE ADVOCACY SESSIONS 

The Laura Vicuna Foundation (LVF) has reached seven hundred seventy two (772) children, youth and families during its online advocacies to fight child trafficking and online Catechesis for the month of June.

LVF’s INITIATIVE TO FIGHT TRAFFICKING #LIFTS

Child trafficking is one of the major forms of violating children’s rights, subjecting them to forced labor with very little or no pay at all, exposing them to harm and putting them at risk of physical, mental and emotional abuse. It is a global issue that needs collaborative efforts between Government Organizations (GO’s), Civil Society Organizations (CSO’s), Non-government Organizations (NGO’s), private individuals and families. As a preventive approach, LVF takes its advocacy to Fight Trafficking seriously. This week LVF has reached three hundred thirty nine (339) children, youth and families in Hillcrest, Judge Jimenez, Marikina, and Taguig facilitated by Mr. Ryan Azucena, LVF Social Worker, through Google meet. This awareness raising sessions help the participants to have an idea of what child trafficking is, how it occurs, its effects, and how and whom to report.

VIRTUAL CATECHESIS ON THE GO 

Four hundred thirty three (433) children, youth and family from Brgy. Pinagkaisahan, Culiat, and Botocan joined the LVF’s virtual catechesis facilitated by Sr. Teresita C. Mislang, FMA. This activity is part of the LVF’s evangelization efforts to reach out to young people and instill in them spiritual and moral values strengthened by love and compassion for humanity.

LVF CELEBRATES INDEPENDENCE DAY with the BIG HEART FOUNDATION 

Big Heart Volunteer Group (BVG) held a virtual outreach session via Google meet with Laura Vicuna Center, Cubao last 12 June 2021. The activity was: “Design your canvas pouch using fabric paint.”  The theme was “Independence Day” in line with the celebration of the 123rd anniversary of Philippine Independence. Each participant was asked to depict her own concept of Independence/Freedom in the form of a drawing/painting. The session started with an Opening Prayer followed by an icebreaker game in the form of a Q & A session. The questions were related to Philippine history such as symbolism of the Philippine flag and a few facts about President Emilio Aguinaldo etc. There was also a short discussion about the Declaration of independence on 12 June 1898 (the what, when, where, how and why) and the chronology of events from 1898 up to the time we earned our freedom from the American colonizers on 04 July 1946 . While the Vicuñans were working on their bags, Tiktok videos were played in the background to keep them inspired. After everybody had finished painting, some of them showed their groove by dancing to the tune of Tiktok videos of their choice. “We indeed had a wonderful time with the Vicuñans. We were very happy to be given an opportunity to connect and share our time, talent and treasure with them. We saw our younger selves in them. It is our ardent desire that they grow up to become successful, God-loving and responsible citizens in the future. All praise and glory to God!.”  -Bernadette Auralio (Big Heart Volunteer officer)  Big Heart Volunteer Group or BVG was founded in August 2016. It holds monthly outreach activities, both community and shelter-based, all over Metro Manila and has two provincial chapters namely BVG Mindoro and BVG Batangas. BVG’s membership grew in size over time, that is, from 5 members to around 41 members as of this writing. The members belong to different age groups – kids, teens, yuppies and even senior citizens. Aside from holding art sessions for children and youth, BVG also conducts Zumba sessions, organizes sports clinic competition, holds relief operations, carries out feeding projects and hosts virtual outreach sessions in different orphanages/shelters. BVG continues its mission to be God’s channel of blessing through the member’s generosity of time, talent and treasure for God’s greater glory. 

VACATION MODE @ LVC 

There is nothing healthier, tastier and better than homemade buns, doughnuts, pizzas from scratch, pianono galore! Yes, the LVF girls are now making doughnuts and pizzas! All these were made with their bare hands! Patience!. It takes a lot of patience to knead the dough but the girls were determined to make various pastries to decorating, plating and presenting their products.  It does not only look good but it also tastes good! The Vicuñans enjoyed very much and learned a lot form this activity. “Dahil sa ginagawa namin ito, natutunan kong lutuin ang mga dating hindi ko alam. Natutunan kong mag-adjust sa mga ka-grupo ko at ang makisalamuha sa kapwa.” Sabi ni Vicky. (“I learned to cook foods that I did not know how to do it before. Also, I learned how to adjust with my group-mates so that we get along well.”) Natutunan kong magtiyaga kahit mahirap. Nakakapagod po magmasa pero masarap naman ang kinalabasan ng niluto namin. Masaya po.” said Phine while chuckling.(I learned how to be patient. Kneading is so tiresome but the outcome of what we cooked was delicious and we’re happy.) Thanks to Divine Providence that the Sisters and Staff are always inspired to introduce something new, educative and innovative for the girls.  With this month long activity we have seen their eagerness to acquire new skills, harness their abilities and challenge their capabilities to improve.  The Vicuñans value better relationships among themselves and become helpful to each other more that winning the competition.  We are grateful that creativity knows no bounds and the passion for learning and growing keeps on reinventing itself.

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UST Angelicum REAP Learner’s Exams 

Last June 5, 2021 the LVC girls took the UST Angelicum REAP Exams to move ahead in their YS Level.  We will never tire of posting these little achievements, baby steps that will lead them to reach their goals and finish their studies. Keep it up Vicuñans

The month of MAY is associated with the season of spring, colorful flowers, great FUN and FIESTAS!  Yes FIESTAS, which are usually celebrations of religious holidays with various engaging activities for young and old. Here @ LVC, no pandemic could prevent us from ‘feasting’ this month of May.  We kicked off with the FLORES DE MAYO, a popular religious festival in the Philippines honoring Mama Mary by the daily offering of prayers; especially the Holy Rosary and offering of flowers to her as a sign of the people’s love and devotion to her.  We had our own version of our grand opening (May 1) of the month long celebration and a meaningful closing (May 31) ceremony to our beloved Mama Mary.  We also celebrated the Religious Consecration Anniversaries of the Sisters but most importantly this year the 25^th Anniversary of Sr. Analyn Guerrero, FMA.  Our own girls Edralyn Abia and Khayerale Leal respectively echoed the Seminar Workshop on Peer Support conducted by Trimex Colleges, Social Work Department of Sta. Rosa, Laguna. A feature article in this E News is from Ms. Eunice Tessa Velasco of TUGON, Ateneo De Manila, TUGON Area Engagement Head on her personal experience with the Laura Vicuna Center girls.

FLORES DE MAYO

Here nothing is done without Mary!  As a Salesian house indeed Mama Mary plays a significant role in our day to day living. The girls willingly initiated a month long ALAY – floral offering to Mary and the praying of the Holy Rosary.  This year though, what was peculiar in the celebration is the ‘bit-by-bit’, ‘step-by-step’  completing the mosaic of Mother Mary coupled with the fervent recitation of the Holy Rosary to end the Pandemic, heal the sick and other various intentions entrusted to us by people who believe and rely on our prayers.  Another heart-warming initiative for Flores De Mayo was the ‘secret angel’ – pick-a-name and pray for that person for the whole month; this really made the Flores de Mayo a significant one, offering daily prayers for each other and building each other up through prayer was the best gift we could give.  Indeed, this month of May had fortified our souls, our love for Mary and our imitation of her virtues particularly her purity and selfless service to others. 

Jessabelle 18, has this to say on her experience of the Flores De Mayo;
It has given me a chance to reflect on myself and recall my faith. Gluing beads on the silhouette of Mama Mary, day by day made me realize some things in my spiritual life here in LVC. It’s almost 3 years, since I have come here. And as I look through beyond myself, I can say that prayers have changed me than the old girl I know. “One without faith in herself that she’ll make it through is scared of going out of her comfort zone”; however, this perspective has changed because of the Sisters in charge of us. They’ve been our guide in our spiritual life. Just as what Sr. Vic said on her good night, “with God, If you believe everything is possible because you the counter logic of the word IMPOSSIBLE is that I’M POSSIBLE.
Through Mary to Jesus, our Mother Mary is surely happy to have led the girls closer to Jesus!

GEMS OF PASWI: A MOTHER’s DAY SPECIAL

Mother’s Day is an occasion especially dedicated to mothers, motherly figures and fathers who are mothers to their children. It is the time to celebrate the women who made great impact in our lives. On May 14, 2021, the Philippine Association of Social Workers’ Inc. (PASWI) held virtual Mother’s Day celebration– GEMS of PASWI: A TRIBUTE TO SOCIAL WORK MOTHERS! This initiative features mothers and motherly figures who are not only capable of managing their households, but are also excelling in their respective fields as social workers. In a six minute video, Sr. Aleth Evangelista, FMA described how exceptional Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA is. “She is a mother, a friend and a mentor not only to me but also to fellow social workers, to fellow religious sisters and most especially to many children and young people. ” Sr. Aleth added. She also commended Sr. Marivic of the incredible work she has done to the Laura Vicuna Foundation, winning various awards in the country and abroad. “Sr. Vic is a loving person with a generous heart who sets aside her own personal matters to give way to others, to listen and to be with and for others.” With all her love, she has become a mother to hundreds and thousands of children and young people!

LVF JOINS CHILDREN CONSULTATION: PHILIPPINES’ RESPONSE TO THE UNCRC LIST OF ISSUES

Two (2) of the LVF’s Child Advocates, Ms. Remilyn Olediana and Ms. Andrea Zaquita, actively participated in the Children Consultation conducted by the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) on May 22 via Zoom. This consultation highlighted the Philippine’s Response to the UNCRC List of Issues. Their inputs were sought to give their views and opinions as to how children like them perceived the issues that affects them. Their sharing of valuable information and perceptions are substantial in the improvement of the laws and various efforts of the country towards the promotion of the culture of protection for children in the family, community, and country as a whole. This was joined by more than thirty (30) children from various organizations.

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MY LV (LAURA VICUNA CENTER) EXPERIENCE
By: Ms. Eunice Tessa Velasco
TUGON Area Engagement Head

I’ve always believed that the core of TUGON Ateneo is their area engagement. It is spending time with the girls and babies in areas that the organization has partnered with that members are extensively fulfilling the advocacy of eradicating child sexual abuse and abandonment. Thus, I didn’t feel competent enough to lead and facilitate area engagements because being an Area Head, at first, felt like a huge responsibility for me. I felt I had this pressure to be in my best for the girls and to provide activities that would engage them and at the same time help them to develop themselves. I valued my performance too much.

However, meeting the girls in Laura Vicuña Center and spending so much of my time with them significantly changed my view on my ‘job’. It started to feel less like a responsibility and felt more like a fun time I could never pass up. I felt less nervous and more excited to spend time with the girls and laugh with them. I would always look forward to Saturdays where I would see them because they always have something up their sleeve that I find so interesting and they always know how to make me laugh in rapper style, as they would endearingly tease me. I had learned so much about who the Vicuñans are:  beautiful, smart, genuine, strong and very optimistic about life. They inspired me so much to look at life the way they do: they look at it with light, excitement, and hope in their eyes. They always made an effort to learn and to ask questions.

The way they voice out their thoughts made me feel how authentic they are with themselves and this I  adore about them. They do their best not to leave anyone behind so they always find ways to get everyone involved, an area goer or a fellow Vicuñan. I know that about them in just a number of sessions; how much more if I can get to spend more time with them for years? I love them so much and I still feel a little sad from time to time on how I can’t be able to see them in person at the moment and how I feel like my time as an Area Head of LVC is too short. Despite that, I know my time as an Area Head may be at its end but I still can spend my time with them as an Area Goer or as an Area Leader. I’m looking forward to spending more time with them as time goes by. I know their hearts, souls, and minds have so much to offer. They continue to give me new perspectives and outlooks on life that make me live my life better.

Life has been quite hard especially as a virus continues to plague our lives.  This being so, it is such a bittersweet experience to find myself creating friendships in Laura Vicuña Center in the midst of a pandemic. My relationship with them make this whole global experience more tolerable. I know the girls will continue to inspire other people’s lives and will radiate the contagious enthusiastic energy like they do with me. Sometimes I feel hopelessness creep up on me when I feel like our advocacy is getting harder to fulfill. However, seeing the girls strong on their own and seeing their diverse, fun filled, and kind personalities pushes me forward to continue our struggle. TUGON ATENEO is one of the partners of Laura Vicuna Foundation in the formation of our LVC girls.

From TUGON’s Facebook Page 

Each of us has a childhood we look fondly back to. However, we know of young people who have already been robbed of the kind of childhood that each person deserves. TUGON aims to share time, love and warmth with the babies and the girls of CRIBS Receiving Homes & CRIBS New Beginnings, Meritxell Babies & Girls, Concordia, ECPAT, Tahanan Sta. Lusia, and Laura Vicuna Center. Despite the adversities that tainted their early years of life, we help them remember that they are indeed children, so that in the future, they may be able to have childhood memories worth reminiscing. Through the areas in TUGON, we are given the ability to prevent adversities from tainting the early years of children, keeping memories happy and still worth reminiscing. With only the inner child, we transform and are transformed. As long as TUGON’s advocacy and mission lives in its members, these kids will move on with their lives knowing the real feeling of “home.” 
                                           We teach, we sing, we dance, we play…
                                            We love to make kids happy! 

HAPPY 25^TH ANNIVERSARY SR. ANA!

The LVC family is full of joy in celebrating the anniversaries in the Religious life of our four Sisters especially Sr. Analyn Guerrero, FMA, who celebrates her 25^th year as a Salesian Sister. Though the Holy Mass presided by His Excellency Bishop Broderick Pabillo, DD, was online, the girls, staff, Sr. Rosalia and Sr. Teresita fervently attended and prayed for Sr. Ana and her batch mates.  It was a fitting example of faithfulness to one’s commitment and most particularly gratitude of God’s fidelity to man, choosing and sending him/her for a mission in the Church.  It was a day of celebration and thanksgiving for the gift of Sr. Ana to the community, for her dedication, tireless self-giving and love for the young. 

“Dear Sr. Ana, we love you, we are happy that Jesus called you to be a Salesian Sister and gave you the mission to take care of us ‘makukulit’ girls of LVC, thank you po for not giving up on us kahit po minsan nagiging ‘angry bird’ na po kayo sa tigas ng ulo namin.  We appreciate your presence with us, your great desire to help us become very good girls; loving Jesus and Mama Mary and overcoming our fears and doubts to be successful someday.  Take good care of your health Sr. Ana, We love you!

April Showers at LVF

The words April Showers came from a short poem written way back; however, it is good to complete the phrase to appreciate more its opulent meaning;  “April Showers bring forth May Flowers;” the meaning behind these words  is: ‘’even unpleasant situations or difficult undertakings can bring about very rewarding endings.” This was exactly experienced by the Laura Vicuña Foundation this month of April. As our beloved country, the Philippines, was once again anguished by the mega-rise of Covid-19 cases and bereft by zooming death tolls this month.  With this as backdrop, the LVF staff, Sisters and girls opted to keep actively silent in solidarity with our fellow Filipinos by re-living the memorial of Christ’s Passion, Death and Resurrection. Though in separate fora, everyone had their Holy Week Recollection, Virtual Easter Catechesis and the regular virtual formations and catechesis all with supplemental feeding distribution with very clear intent to journey with the sufferings of our nation and the world because of this Pandemic.  Yes, it ‘showered’ and rains even poured so hard this month but here at LVF we kept our HOPE and FAITH alive! And surely we have reaped the reward, as six Vicuñans received three sacraments from our Catholic Church: Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Communion.  The lasting fruit of God’s grace was not only receives by them but by the whole LVF community and HOPE once again shines forth.

HOLY WEEK RECOLLECTION 

The LVF girls had their Recollection at the Laura Vicuña Center-Cubao facilitated by Sr. Rose Panganiban, FMA. It was a day of paying attention to the presence of God in the soul of every Vicuñan, a day to reflect on the miracles that God performed in their lives, miracles that touched and renewed them. As Shane shared: “Para posa akin, yung recollection ay nagbigay sa aming Hope. Doon ko napagtanto na talagang mahal kami ni God…na kahit gaano kami makasalanan, mahal N’ya kami.” (For me, the recollection gave us Hope. There, I truly realized that God, indeed, loves us…that no matter how sinful we are, He still loves us.) Nurturing the Spiritual growth of every child is at the heart of Laura Vicuña Foundation.

 LVF-CPC VIRTUAL SPIRITUAL FORMATION

No pandemic or social distancing can stop LVF in giving Jesus to the community. LVF is at its best in developing among children Christian values that become a deeply rooted spirituality. With the efforts of the Salesian Sisters and the Lay Mission Partners, LVF has reached a total of eight hundred fifty-two (852) children, youth and families during its online Easter Celebration and Catechesis.

VIRTUAL EASTER CATECHESIS 

Easter is not like any other ordinary celebration. It is a Feast of Christ’s triumphant victory over sin and death! As the whole world relishes this crucial and momentous event in the Catholic Church, four hundred ninety-two (492) children, youth and parents from the Laura Vicuña Foundation-Child Protection Communities (LVF-CPC) in Brgy.Pinagkaisahan, Culiat, Hillcrest, Judge Jimenez, Marikina and Taguig grow in faith at home as they joined the LVF virtual recollection facilitated by Sr. Rose Panganiban, FMA  (Apr. 03) and Mr. Ryan Azucena, LVF Social Worker (Apr. 13) via googlemeet, respectively. Truly, the Resurrection of Jesus is the crowning truth of our faith in Christ, a faith believed and lived as the central truth by the first Christian community; handed on as fundamental by Tradition, established by the books of the New Testament; and preached as an essential part of the Paschal mystery along with the Cross: Christ is risen from the dead! Dying, He conquered death; to the dead, He has given life.”( Catechism of the Catholic Church# 638).

LVF CATECHESIS IN AN ONLINE COMMUNITY

Families play an important role in nurturing the child’s spiritual formation. They have the capacity to hone the child’s relationship with God. To guide them in shaping the children’s spiritual values, LVF innovated a virtual Catechesis to three hundred sixty (360) children, youth, and parents of the Child Protection Communities in Brgy. Pinagkaisahan, Hillcrest, and Judge Jimenez facilitated by Sr. Teresita Mislang, FMA. They were so happy to have the catechesis again even though it was online because of the pandemic.

LVF MONTHLY SUPPLEMENTAL FEEDING DISTRIBUTION 

As we celebrate the Lord’s resurrection, we are also reminded that every person is sacred as He created them in His image and likeness. We are a member of one human family. In this grave time, when our faith, compassion, and solidarity is tested by the pandemic, we are tempted to turn away from the world and hide in the comforts of our homes. But God is challenging us, made us uncomfortable knowing that our brothers and sisters out there are in misery and distress! Who would have known that this pandemic would persist? But there is more greater than our fear-OUR LOVE & CARE for our brethren especially the children! The LVF Sisters, girls, and staff continue to cooked and prepared spaghetti, fudgee bar, juices, and kilos of rice to 250 children, youth, and parents to its Child Protection Communities (CPC) in Brgy. Pinagkaisahan, Culiat, Hillcrest, and Judge Jimenez!  LVF is also grateful to Ms. Marie Young of RFM for sponsoring the juices received by the kids.

LVF PALAWAN IS NOW AN ACCREDITTED RESIDENTIAL CENTER FOR CHILDREN IN NEED OF SPECIAL PROTECTION 

After complying to the standards set by the Department, DSWD has finally issued our CERTIFICATE OF ACCREDITATION to implement CENTER BASED RESIDENTIAL PROGRAMS and SERVICES FOR CHILDREN IN NEED OF SPECIAL PROTECTION (CNSP) The certification will be valid for three (3) years.

LVF GIRLS #BLESSED 

We are so blest @ LVC as 6 of our Girls have received the Sacraments of Christian Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist) with presider, Fr Denis Soriano, the Rector of the Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral, Cubao, QC. Sr Rose and LVF Staff, Virgie Jison and mR. Ryan Azucenaand Ms. Imelda Ricare, head catechist witnessing the rites. Congratulations Welcome to the Christian World.

MARCH is marchin’ forward…

At the Laura Vicuna Foundation!  Forward, onward, frontward… this has always been the mandate and mission we dare to live and impart to our educating communities.  Despite all the hassles and bustles of life we move forward in HOPE! 

LVF though a non- government organization observes and advocates significant celebrations that our nation upholds. March as Women’s Month spurred us ever to do advocacy as we celebrated the International Women’s Day. A selected few of our girls joined the 2021 GIRL-CHILD WEEK – 2021 Girl-Child Week Webinar on the “Key Issues Affecting Girls during the Covid-19 Pandemic”which was spear-headed by the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) in which we are an active member.  Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, FMA, LVF’s Managing director and PASWI (Phil. Association of Social Workers, Inc.) Manila, Vice President committed herself tirelessly to be of service to the association, sharing her expertise and time as a resource speaker particularly on spirituality this month on the virtual trainer’s training on Mental Health Care Intervention for Social workers & Community Responders of Pandemic & Complex Emergencies and in animating the weekly PASWI Circle of Prayers Online together with Sr. Rosalia Panganiban, FMA, also a Social Worker and the whole community. The National Church’s big event of the 500 years of Christianity Eucharistic Celebration presided by His Holiness Pope Francis was also participated at by the LVF. And of course this March too, our girls took the UST Angelicum REAP exams and most of them moved forward to a Year School new level.  Last but the most important event was our LVF Community Gratitude Day for Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana our community animator exquisitely done with much love and gratitude in our hearts!

So let’s go marchin’ this March!

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY, THE LVF WAY! 

In celebration of the International Women’s Day, March 8, LVF’s women-partners & grassroot leaders distributed one hundred twenty (120) packs of Selecta milk and Ube puto to LVF’s Child Protection Communities in Hillcrest & Judge Jimenez. Mr. Ryan Azucena, LVF Social Worker, gave an input to the kids. LVF is grateful to Mrs. Marie Concepcion-Young who sponsored the Selecta Milk and to Mrs. Michelle Concepcion-Reyes for donating the Ube Puto! Truly, the grateful smile that beamed on the faces of the children who received the goods fuelled LVF’s motivation to continue in serving with love and compassion.

LVF JOINS THE MASS FOR 500 YEARS OF CHRISTIANITY IN THE PHILIPPINES! 

March 14. LVF joins the Holy Mass commemorating the 500 years Anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines presided by the Holy Father himself, Pope Francis! In his homily, the Pope said Filipinos received the joy of the Gospel half a millennia ago, “and this joy is evident in your people.” He said the Gospel message of God’s closeness must be constantly proclaimed to others, so that none might perish (https://www.vaticannews.va/).As Filipino Catholics, we are challenged never to be afraid in proclaiming the Gospel, to serve and to love. It is our sacred duty to expand the gift of faith that each one of us received. May we be gifted to give.

LVF CELEBRATES THE 500 YEARS OF CHRISTIANITY: GIFTED TO GIVE! 

March 15. In celebration of the 500 Years of Christianity in the Philippines, LVF, together with its parent-leaders, distributed one hundred ten (110) packs of Selecta milk & Skimmed milk to its Child Protection Clinic in Pinagkaisahan and Culiat. The kids were so happy to receive the milk! LVF is ever grateful for its sponsors who ceaselessly extend their support and share the same on LVF’s endeavors. We, all, are called to share the gift of faith and translate it into action

2021 GIRL-CHILD WEEK

March 26. LVF joined the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) in the 2021 Girl-Child Week Webinar on the “Key Issues Affecting Girls during the Covid-19 Pandemic.”Proclamation No. 759 declares that every fourth week of March of every year shall be observed as a Protection and Gender-Fair Treatment of the Girl Child Week. LVF Child representatives Hannah Babes Yap and Tricia Nadine Velasquez joined and participated during the said webinar. In this session, the girls learned that a child spends 116 minutes or almost two(2) hours online per day and that more and more children are exposed to risk and become vulnerable especially those children who are exposed online. They were also given some tips on how to keep themselves on cyberspace. It is very much important to have a parent or guardian who supervises the online activities of children.

LVF CHILD REPRESENTATIVES JOINS PEER SUPPORT WEBINAR 

March 27. To have a healthy supporting environment and support system in this time of Pandemic is very crucial. Mental health should be taken cared of as much as we take good care of our physical health. With all the stressful events in the country, it is important that as individuals, we possess the basics of becoming an ally and support to someone who needs it. LVF Child representative Edralyn and Khaye joined and actively participated in the webinar, organized by Trimex Colleges, on Peer Support with the theme “Building Up from the Inside Out: Providing Peer Support in the New Normal.” The girls learned a lot from the webinar. As Edralyn wrote “We need to have a trustful relationship with people especially with those who share their personal problems with us. We need to be understanding towards those who experience difficulty at present. We must pull each other up whenever one is feeling down.”Khaye added “that it is paramount to give your full attention to a person who shares his or her experiences with you.And observe confidentiality at all times.” LVF expresses its thanks to Ms. Emy Caramay-India, Trimex Colleges Program Chair of Social Work Program, for inviting LVF to this webinar.

PASWI VIRTUAL TRAINER’s TRAINING: SPIRITUALITY & SOLIDARITY 

March 05. The Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI) had invited Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA, LVF’s Managing Director,as speaker during the virtual trainer’s training on “Mental Health Care Intervention for Social workers & Community Responders of Pandemic & Complex Emergencies”to 400 participants.  She talked on “Strengthening Spirituality & Solidarity of every Filipino Social Worker in this Pandemic.” As policy-makers, direct service providers, it is important to go back to the ‘basic’: To anchor oneself on Spirituality regardless of the religious denomination.

LVC Girls moved up in their YS Levels (UST Angelicum REAP) 

March 15 and 16 were again days of exams for our girls under the UST Angelicum REAP Program.  Their perseverance and hard work paid off as most of them moved a level up.  

Desiree – YS 10 – YS 11
Lyka – YS 8 – YS 9
Shane – YS 8 – YS 9
Josephine – YS 8 – YS 9
Crizzalyn – YS 7 – YS 8
Remilyn – YS 7 – YS 8 

And two new comers had their entrance exams namely Victoria and Mayriel respectively. We are just thankful that these girls have the zest and drive to study and give priority to education. They have come to realize that one of the keystones to a renewed life is education. And so the Sisters and Staff are very much willing to accompany them in this tedious journey of becoming!

LVF GRATITUDE DAY 2020:  HEARTS THAT GIVE THANKS!

“Hearts That Give Thanks” was the theme of our 2021 Community Gratitude Day for Sr. Marivic P. Sta. Ana, FMA, our community animator. As ever, the whole community, from the youngest to the oldest took responsibilities and executed them the best way possible as our contribution in this meaningful community event.  We had a novena of prayers and thanks for each other, capping it with the whole day celebration of Gratitude for Sr. Vic.  Our staff who lived with us at the lower level of the building prepared the venue (LVF Hall- Ground floor) with their festive creativity; they too performed a heart- warming song entitled “In This Moment” as expression of their thanks to Sr. Vic.  The girls, unstoppable as ever performed the well-known dance-song “This is Me” of the Greatest Showman as proof of how Sr. Marivic accompanied them to discover and embrace who they are.  We played KAHOOT! The well- loved quiz bee online game as our way of knowing deeply our community animator. Most significantly was the celebration of the Holy Mass as one educating community, all were fervent in prayer, thanking our Good Lord for the gift of each other, the community and our beloved Sr. Marivic. We were also grateful to Rev. Fr. Favie Faldas SDB, Rector of Don Bosco Makati, for coming here in the Center to celebrate with us and give Jesus – tangibly to us through the Eucharist. The last act was the Playlet organized by the girls themselves; this was the first attempt to do script etc. Tricia Nadine Velasquez, 16, with the guidance of the Sisters, made the script, and Ms. Rosea Marie Monsay, one of our Social Workers directed it. We were so proud that we made it! Sr. Marivic, in her Good Night Talk thanked all of us for the hard work we had placed in making our gratitude Day possible. She highlighted the importance of giving one’s best not so much to the perfection of the finish product that brought about hurts and division, but the love and care for each other’s work. So really typical of Sr. Marivic, a kind hearted, witty, loving and caring community animator after the heart of Don Bosco and Mother Mazzarello! Thank you Sr. Vic! We love you.

LVF PALAWAN SHARES YES AHA TO SYM FIL-PNG PROVINCE

YES AHA stands for YOUTH EMPOWERMENT THROUGH SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE AND HEALTH ADVOCACY 
Laura Vicuna Center Palawan shared about Urban Gardening, Soil Media/Growing Media Preparation, Land Preparation and Care and Maintenance of the plants to the Students of Mary Help of Christians Schools all over the Philippines and Papua New Guinea Province, through a video presentation and social media platform. It was facilitated by the Laura Vicuna Foundation Palawan Learners. The purpose of this video presentation is to show to the students and youth in the city or urban areas that they can do gardening and produce their own healthy food and to take care of the environment, our common home.

YES AHA KICKS OFF

Laura Vicuna Center celebrated the “YES AHA KICK OFF 2021 Batch 2” last March 20, 2021. The main objective of the program was to show and to educate the youth to engage and love farming and take good care of the environment for the next generation of the society. The said event has the following activities: Plot Making, Ecobricks Making Contest, Quiz Bee, Zumba Competition, and the Search for MR. & MS. YES AHA 2021.  The most exciting part of the pageant was when the contestants showed their art and creativity on making their own costume by the use of recyclable materials and natural agricultural waste like coconut husk, bamboos,  leaves, vines and other materials. This event also taught the young generation how to manage waste materials, increase their love for mother  the nature and to encourage them to engage into organic agriculture and show their love for our Mother Earth.

POPE MASS – 500 YEARS OF FAITH

LVF Palawan community joined the entire Filipino nation during the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided by the Holy Father Pope Francis at the Vatican. It was a very touching encounter and each one of us felt grateful and blessed for having witnessed this 500 years of our Christian faith. It is also an invitation to proclaim Jesus and our Catholic faith to the ends of the earth. We are all gifted to give, share what we have and what we can through our daily living of our faith.   

STAFF LENTEN RECOLLECTION

Sr. Aleth guided the staff during their Lenten Recollection at Panarest Farm. It was a whole day of quieting moment, listening, reflecting and sharing on God’s movements in their individual life. The staff were grateful for the experience of prayer and the moment of togetherness that in spite the pandemic, this recollection is one great pause to strengthen their spiritual life and be nourished by the love and presence of God.

FEBRUARY, LOVE APLENTY! February exudes good and warm vibes as ever, so does Laura Vicuna Foundation. Faithful to the people we serve we never lose any opportunity to be close to them and to advocate for child protection and youth empowerment. The February LVF e-news highlights its celebration of the 2021 National Awareness Week for the Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation and its partnership with the Council for the Welfare of Children for the launch of the Blue Umbrella Day with the theme, We Must Protect Boys, Just As We Protect Girls.  Also in February, LVF closely collaborated with its Child Protection Communities in giving joy and hope to our people essential household needs. Our unbridled SOLIDARITY seryecoupled with formation sessions and spiritual inputs is a mark of love for humanity.  This month too the Philippine Association of Social Workers (PASWI) has named Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA, whom we fondly call, Sr. Marivic, as the coordinator of the newly launched PASWI Circle of Prayers via Zoom and Facebook Live every Wednesday with varied prayer themes and is delicately inclusive of all Religious denominations. As for our LVC girls, grateful for the Scholarship given by the UST Angelicum (REAP) Home Study Program; they have sweated it out painstakingly to come up with a presentation for its Fund Raising Concert entitled “A Heart for REAP”.

LVF JOINS THE NATION IN THE 2021 CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE AWARENESS WEEK KICK-OFF!

The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. joined the Kick-off activity for 2021 National Awareness Week for the Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation on February 8. Sexual abuse and exploitation of children is a major problem in the Philippines. Various studies showed that more and more children are being victimized by various forms of abuses in various settings.In fact, more and more boys are being abused sexually. This includes the home. Hence, the government deemed it necessary to address such issues as it puts Filipino children at greater risk. The Kick-off activity includes an awareness session of boys’ becoming victims of sexual abuse as a soft launch for the BLUE UMBRELLA DAY (BUD).  The girls’ national participation with regards to this issue is very important because it does not only make them socially aware but also triggers them to think critically as they raise questions like “May mga institution po bang tumutulong sa mga batang lalaki na naabusong seskwal? Ano-anu po ang mga ito?” [Is there any institution that helps boys who were sexually abused? What are these (institutions)?]. This also is a way for them to understand current issues surrounding them.]

The BUD will be internationally launched on the 16^th of April 2021 which will be led by Guyana, India, Paraguay and the Philippines! This is an international day that draws attention to the need to better protect boys against sexual abuse, assault and exploitation. (https://www.familyforeverychild.org/).

LVF’s SOCIAL ADVOCACY: “WE MUST PROTECT BOYS JUST AS WE PROTECT GIRLS”

In celebration of the National Child Sexual Abuse Awareness Week (NCSAAW), the Laura Vicuna Foundation (LVF) conducted an advocacy campaign on #iamBRAVE to one hundred ten (116) parents coming from LVF’s Child Protection Community (CPC) Areas on February 12, 2021. Anchored to this year’s NCSAAW theme, “WE MUST PROTECT BOYS JUST AS WE PROTECT GIRLS”, Mr. Ryan Azucena, LVF Social Worker, highlighted studies which showed that more and more boys are experiencing abuses as well during the session. He also reiterated the various contributing factors to the current issue faced by the boys and further added the psychological impacts of abuses to them. The launching of Blue Umbrella Day in the Philippines became an eye-opener to parents who attended the session as one of them shared: “Dapat po magkaroon tayo ng pantay na pagtrato sa ating mga anak, babae man sya o lalaki. Nasa magulang pa rin ang responsibilidad ng paggabay sa mga anak.” (We should treat our children fairly, regardless of their gender. It is still the parents’ responsibility to guide their children). This session has also drawn realization that our parent-partners ought to be‘Good Shepherds’ to their children and to their communities as well. This is in partnership with the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC).

LVF 2021 SOLIDARITYserye: WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER!

Everyday, we find more and more reason to celebrate each other, not just because the occasion tells us to do so, but for the sole reason that each one of us is responsible for each other. 200 children from the LVC and the Child Protection Communities through their parents received PCSO hygiene packs and bags of groceries . These gifts were delivered by PCSO to LVF late last Dec. 29,2020.

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PASWI WEDNESDAYS CIRCLE OF PRAYER 

The Philippine Association of Social Workers Incorporated (PASWI), in partnership with the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. initiated a virtual divine intervention, dubbed as CIRCLE OF PRAYERS, in response to diverse and complex challenges we are currently experiencing. It already piloted on February 17 and gathered social workers from Luzon, Visayas and even Mindanao! This virtual initiative, which is held every Wednesday at 8:30-9:00 pm, is spearheaded by Director Eva Ponce De Leon, PASWI Executive Director and Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA, LVF’s Managing Director.

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LVF JOINS THE NSC-CRA MEETING 

LVF was invited by the CWC to join the National Steering Committee on Child Rights Advocacy (NSC-CRA) Meeting on planning and drafting for the 2021 National Children’s Month theme and activities through Zoom on 09 February 2021.

A HEART FOR REAP

The Laura Vicuna Sisters, girls and staff were more than grateful to the UST Angelicum for initiating a Fund Raising Concert for their Re-entry Education Agenda for the Poor (REAP) Learners in their 14 Learning Sites all over the country to continue the program.  The girls with the guidance of the Sisters and staff learned the song entitled “Rainbow” assigned by the UST Angelicum concert director.  Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana found it helpful to ask their music teacher at the Colegio de Sta. Ana, Mr. Gulmatico who willingly tutored them.  We are very much thankful for this concert initiative which made our bond with UST Angelicum more stronger, in fact, two days after the concert, the REAP in charge Ms. Maiden Grace Gan with Sir Jojo and UST Angelicum  alumna Ms. Vanessa came and spent quality time with our girls.  It was the first visit of UST Angelicum in our learning site and it came more of a friendly visit more than a formal one. It was an assurance of support for us and a challenge to give our best as our response to this gift of quality education to our girls. 

PROVINCIAL EDUCATING COMMUNITY GRATITUDE DAY FOR SR. MABEL 

Dubbed as “SAma-samang NAgpapasalamat sa Abang Lingkodat Kalakbay” #SANA ALL this was the last Educating Community Gratitude Day for Sr. Mabel, FIL & PNG Provincial Superior and LVF President, who had faithfully and joyfully given her service and life to each of us in the Provincial Educating Community.  It was a fun-filled afternoon, the animators of the program were so creative in making the different FMA communities interact with each other though online, all presented a number of thanks to Sr. Mabel which was interspersed with Kahoot quiz bee and other interactive games.  And yes, LVC bagged the 2^nd and 3^rd place respectively in the Kahoot quiz challenge on ‘how well do you know Sr. Mabel?’.  It was cupped with the Holy Mass celebrated by the SDB FIN Provincial Rev. Fr. Gerry Martin then the thank you message of SR. Mabel which concluded with the announcement of the new FMA FIL Provincial Sr. Tita Padron, FMA.  We were all filled with love this day and gratitude poured forth from our hearts to God for the gift of our humble, simple and loving Provincial Sr. Mabel Pilar, FMA.

LVF PALAWAN 

ROTARY CLUB OF PUERTO PRINCESA TURNS OVER THEIR FARM PROJECT TO LVF PALAWAN
The Rotary Club of Puerto Princesa headed by its president Ms. Lyn Moraga finally turned over the completed grant farm project dubbed as“Water System for an Effective Organic Farming” to the Laura Vicuna Foundation Palawan represented by Sr. Aleth Evangelista, FMA. President Moragara also tapped the City Veterinarian Office of Puerto Princesa and together with the other members of the Rotary Club distributed 7 piglets and 300 heads of chicken to the parents of the learners for the purpose of additional livelihood and income in the family especially in this time of the pandemic crisis.

LVF PALAWAN CELEBRATES THE NATIONAL AWARENESS AND PREVENTION WEEK AGAINST CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE AND EXPLOITATION 

 In the year dedicated to St. Joseph, last February 10, 2021, Sr. Aleth Evangelista, FMA was invited at the parish of St. Joseph Marello in Sabang, Puerto Princesa City, to share an important issue concerning children and their safety. The talk was part of the parish formation among the group Men of St. Joseph. LVF Palawan was honored to share its advocacy of building a culture of protection for children through the simple sharing among the men, mostly fathers, of the parish. The parish priest, Fr. Nemuel Ebite, OSJ and the participants were very thankful for such an encounter as well as in celebration of the National Awareness and Prevention Week Against Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation. St. Joseph who protected Jesus and Mary all throughout their life must be true for all fathers, that is, as pillars of their homes, they may guide and protect children and women at all cost.

LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 

In spite of the threats of the present crisis, LVF Malihao, Victorias City, Negros Occidental was able to commemorate the journey of Jesus’ passion and death through the Ash Wednesday Eucharistic Celebration and Way of the Cross.

JANUARY HERALDS 365 DAYS OF NEW BEGINNINGS! 

January 2021 Celebrate endings, 365 days of new beginnings. January is popularly known as ‘the door that opens the New Year” started at LVF with much gratitude to God Almighty with hope, optimism and courage. LVF recommits new expressions of innovation in promoting solidarity and a culture of social protection. Christmas in January became a reality for us purely by God’s grace.

26^TH COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES – LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION, INC. TECHNOLOGY CENTER

The 26^th Commencement Exercises of the Laura Vicuna Foundation (Technology Center) Sta. Mesa was held here at the Laura Vicuna Foundation Center-Cubao, Quezon City.  Yes, the graduation theme; MOVING FORWARD DESPITE ADVERSITIES was toughly embodied by all the graduates, LVF Staff and technicians because all braved a face-to-face event in spite of the COVID 19 threat. Mr. Ryan Azucena, a Registered Social Worker who completed a training course at the Laura Vicuna Women Development Training Center (LVWDTC) in Malihao, Victorias City, Negros Occidental and had his OJT at the Bellevue Hotel  at Alabang inspired the graduates by sharing his journey of success which started at the LVWDTC Training Center. Congratulations to our 14 graduates of Business and Office Technology (BOT) with TESDA English Proficiency and Bookkeeping NC 3. We are so proud of you for you braved all to reach your goals and we pray that you continue to move forward in life despite adversities; making them stepping stones to rise, to upsurge no matter the cost. We strictly followed the AITF protocols and took all necessary permits from government agencies to make this possible.  No practice was ever held, all were very much cooperative and obedient to the rules.  Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, FMA, LVF Managing Director, Sr. Analyn Guerrero, FMA, LVF Technical Directress Sr. Teresita Mislang, FMA were present during the event. By God’s grace, we were able to hold the commencement exercises at the LVF-QC building.

LAURA VICUÑAFOUNDATION’s EXTENDED CHRISTMAS GIFT GIVING 

Jan. 10. The Laura Vicuña Foundation’s (LVF) Sisters and girls cooked, prepared, and packed one hundred(100) spaghetti meals for its Child Protection Communities in Judge Jimenez, Hillcrest and Brgy. Pinagkaisahan as last day of Christmas celebration! LVF Social Worker, Mr. Ryan Azucena and Volunteer Raven, distributed the foods. They happily received the foods and warmly thanked LVF.

LVF MEDICAL MISSION WITH A TWIST!

Covid19 Pandemic Crisis brought various changes in each people’s lives primarily in the way of our interactions with each other as the government-imposed safety guidelines/protocols that prohibits us to have a face to face activities. Because of this we undergone an array of adjustments for our safety and prevention of the spread of virus. Despite of this situation, the Laura Vicuna Foundation (LVF), which was also affected by this problem especially in its usual activities being initiated, made some adjustments and modifications in its programs and services especially in the implementation process. One of the activities under the community-based program is its annual medical mission for its Child Protection Communities and Schools in Negros Occidental where it reached a total of 3,000 children and families being catered last 2019. For 2020-2021, LVF through its Managing Director Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA, made a twist on its usual process of conducting medical mission where she initiated: Consultation at the Barangay Health Centers of the CPC-Communities or Tele Consultation and distribution of medicines by LVF Staff through the PCSO Project from January 2020 to January 10, 2021. Through its social worker, Mr. Ryan Azucena who facilitates the distribution of medicines to the members of its CPC-Communities. The medicines included anti-biotic, multivitamins, maintenance medicines and vitamins for the children. This activity was made possible through the cooperation and help of the Barangay Officials, doctors for the Tele Consultation and parent-leaders of each communities. The families were very thankful to the foundation for this activity as they felt the love and concern of the foundation for their safety in this difficult time. 

LVF JOINS 2021 INTERNATIONAL YEAR FOR THE ELIMINATION OF CHILD LABOUR KICK-OFF 

Jan. 21:LVF represented by Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, FMA & Ms. Rosea Marie Monsay, joined the Kick-off event for the 2021 International Year for the Elimination of Child Labour live via Zoom,held at GENEVA, SWITZERLAND (3:00-4:15 Central European Time) 10:00-11:15 pm Philippine Standard Time. This year’s theme “ACT NOW TO END CHILD LABOR” is further deepened by Mr. Guy Ryder, ILO Director-General. The International Year will provide an opportunity to address the challenges posed by COVID-19 and to accelerate progress towards the goal set by SDG Target 8.7 to end child labour in all its forms by 2025 LINK

LVF is one with International Labor Organization(ILO) in sharing with the same advocacy: striving to protect vulnerable sectors especially children and to mitigate child labour in the country. #EndChildLabour2021

FEASTS OF OUR SALESIAN SAINTS 

January too is a Salesian Month, the FEASTS of our Salesian Saints. Feast of Blessed Laura Vicuna was January 22, a very dear saint for all of us not only because we named our house after her; neigh more the Foundation that cradles us for 30 plus years now but most significantly because Laura remains to be our inspiration and model in facing the harsh realities of life and weathering its storms with full trust and faith in God and devotion to Mama Mary.  Ms. Jhanica Banatin, a Past Pupil of Mary Help of Christians College, Canlubang and a member of the Laura’s Friends Club of the SYM had a heart-to-heart encounter with the girls on how Laura Vicuna has inspired and influenced their choices in life.  Sr. Analyn Guerrero, FMA with selected girls prepared a Prayer Celebration for the whole community and with Ms. Monsay, our Social Worker, the girls presented a skit on the life of Laura Vicuna and its message- invitation to the present generation.

BOSCOLYMPICS 2021 

Jan. 26. LVF formally opened the 2021 Boscolympic competition! This annual week-long celebration commemorates Don Bosco’s influence to the life of the youth. “Itong araw na ito ay ang pag-alala natin kay St. John Bosco sa oratoryong kanyang binuo para sa mga kabataan. Kaya nga Run, Jump, Play but Never Sin dahil lahat tayo ay malapit sa puso ni St. John   Bosco.” said Hannah, LVF Girl. (Today, we commemorate John Bosco’s oratory which he founded for children. That’s why Run, Jump, Play but Never Sin for we (as children) are close to St. John Bosco’s heart.)

Everyone roared with excitement when the torch went afire and they enthusiastically took the pledge of sportsmanship to practice fair play, honesty, respect and camaraderie. Everyday, the LVF girls journeyed with the Sisters in experiencing Don Bosco’s life, as Sr. Teresita Mislang, FMA, Sr Ana Guerrero, FMA, and Sr. Rose Panganiban, FMA gave them inputs about his (Don Bosco) childhood at Becchi, to his young adulthood at Chieri, and his life at Valdocco. Indeed, it is a way of deepening the girls’ relationship with Don Bosco as they get to know him more meaningfully.  

The Vicunians were thrilled to participate on various activities which was held everyday. And on the first day of competition, the volleyball court was full of deafening roar as each calls out and cheers for their own teams! They very much enjoyed the badminton, volleyball, basketball, game of the generals, chess, bato-bata, patintero and sack race! The competition ended with their cheer-dance competition and the team who got the highest points and was declared as champion of 2021 Boscolympic was the Green Team: H.O.P.E Stronger than Yesterday.

Since he is the Father and Teacher of the young, we should implore him to guide us to see things clearly and to accept them with all our heart.

NATIONAL DON BOSCO QUIZ BEE CHALLENGE 2021

On Jan. 30 one of our LVC girls joined The National Don Bosco Quiz Bee Challenge 2021 (online) by the D’WORD and ONE SYM.  It was a way of celebrating the great feast of our Father, Teacher and Guide, Don Bosco with the Salesian Family.  Joy prevailed in the whole duration of the Quiz Bee Challenge in as much as family spirit pervaded the event. Our girls, Staff and Sisters were in full support for Edralyn Abia who was able to join the Quiz Bee until the second round.  We salute her for giving her best, for representing Laura Vicuna Center in this affair.

16,430 PERSONS SERVED IN 2020:  AT LVF, CHRIST’ LOVE is enFLESHED!
Almost all things that we can say about Christmas are all cliché’, but for us here @ LVF,  the phrase CHRISTMAS IS SHARING will always be our concrete gesture of celebrating the Birth of our Lord, God-Jesus becoming flesh for our salvation.  LVF trying our best to enFLESH the Lord’s gifting and giving of Himself by our reaching out to the least, last and lost.  Yes, Christmas is not just in our hearts… Christmas is stretching out our hands and hearts to others in great need this year of the PANDEMIC. 

LVF ANNUAL PARTI-HAN TRADITION CHRISTMAS GIFT-GIVING 2020!
The year 2020 may be a year of full challenges and adversities, but the Laura Vicuña Foundation had remained creative and unstoppable in braving the war against the pandemic just to remain close to our countrymen who were, and are still enduring the continuing effects of the pandemic. Since we cannot hold large gatherings, the LVF’s Annual Parti-han Tradition Christmas gift-giving was conducted per area. Hand in hand, the Sisters, girls and staff packed and prepared hundreds and hundreds of food packs for the communities.

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LVF was able to distribute a total of one thousand five hundred ninety (1,590) Noche Buena gift packs to its CPC Communities! Four hundred twenty (420) individuals were served by the first tranche of gift packs distributed on Dec. 19 and 20 to Marikina, Mandaluyong, Taguig and Cavite while the second tranche of 381 Christmas gift packs and Mang Inasal packed lunch were distributed on Dec. 21 and 22 to LVF-CPC communities in Culiat, Pinagkaisahan, Bacood, Hillcrest & Judge Jimenez.

As part of the LVF’s Annual Parti-han celebration, seven hundred eighty-nine (789) Media Noche gift packs to depressed communities and garbage collectors.  Let us give LVF communities and families Media Noche to greet the New Year.  With the Pandemic surely they are short of food.  Let us afford them a simple joy for the the coming year 2021. (“Bigyan natin sila ng pang Media-Noche  lalo na at magbabagong taon. Hindi natin alam, baka ‘yong iba walang panghanda kasi nga nasa krisis tayo, may Pandemic. Kahit kaunti lang, mabigyan natin sila ng kaligayahan.”) Sr. Marivic, LVF’s Managing Director said. Indeed, this pandemic had brought us closer towards each other, not because of any personal gains but we had focused on what was essential and we were trying our best to overcome various barriers of indifference.Upon receiving the gifts, the smile on their faces and the flicker of joy in their eyes as they expressed their thanks was priceless! A genuine ‘thank-you’ from the recipients was heartwarming enough. Seeing how happy they were to receive such gifts, you can visibly see how grateful they were to be remembered.

LVF ANNUAL FAMILY CONGRESS 2020!
Dec. 30, 2020.  Traditionally, the LVF Annual Family Congress gathered hundreds of families where parents were given the opportunity to voice out their concerns and problems with their child-rearing and parenting styles as well as children had the opportunity to be heard of their concerns and difficulties in their journey of growing up. However, this year, LVF conducted its Annual Family Congress per area, so as to avoid contracting the COVID-19 virus, online and offline! Its Social Workers braved the threat of COVID-19 as frontliners in conducting its advocacies for the people.

Observing the health protocols: social distancing, wearing of facemasks and face shields and hand sanitizing, LVF was able to reach seven hundred ten (710) children, youth & parents of LVF-CPC in Cavite, Marikina, Taguig, Bacood, Botocan, Culiat, Judge Jimenez, Hillcrest & Brgy. Pinagkaisahan joined the LVF’s Session on “Enhancing Families with Coping Skills during the Pandemic” conducted by LVF Social Worker, Mercedes Juncia, assisted by Joy Hugo, Ryan Azucena, Virginia Jison, Rosea Monsay, Liza and Eyen Corro.This aimed to provide an array of coping mechanisms to families especially in this time of Pandemic as well as a chance for them to freely speak and ventilate their feeling of worries, anxieties, fear and sadness as well as their experiences and how they managed to deal with their everyday situations. 

Due to the experiences we had this COVID-19 pandemic, mental health is an important issue in our communities.  The Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF)came up with an online session on “Mindfulness-Road to Mental Health” in partnership with DepEd Schools Division of Cadiz City and Colegio de Sta. Ana de Victorias (CSAV) in Negros Occidental. It had reached a total of 500 participants for their advocacy sessions:  CSAV 435 participants and DepEd Cadiz 65 participants.The LVF Social Workers were being tapped to facilitate the sessions.College students, Guidance and Admin staff attended the CSAV sessions while SSG officers, Yes-O officers and Teacher advisers attended the DepEd Cadiz sessions.The dates were December 5, 11 and 18 for CSAV and December 4 and 11 for DepEd Cadiz. After listening to the tips on mindfulness one teacher said, “The session is very timely as most of us are experiencing difficulties in this time of pandemic.” For the students one of them said, “The face-to-face encounter we had with our teachers and classmates were denied from us this pandemic but we need to be positive in all things so that it will lead us to an optimistic horizon.Then another student said, “Having a smile on our faces, putting God first in our lives and being grateful for His blessings will give us a purpose and a renewed meaning with our lives after the pandemic lockdown.”

ONLINE ADVOCACY SESSION ON CHILD’S RIGHTS
The Laura Vicuña Foundation’s advocacy on Child’s Rights does not end with the culmination of the month of November. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is estimated, globally, that up to 1 billion children aged 2-17 years have experienced physical, sexual, or emotional violence or neglect in the past year. Hence, as part of LVF’s campaign in Ending Violence against Women and Children, LVF continues to conduct its online advocacy session on Child’s Rights and Responsibilities to:  100 youth and parents of LVF-CPC Culiat (Dec. 2), 34 children and young people in Pius (Dec. 6),31 young people of Majada (Dec. 12), and 56 children, youth and parent participants in Marikina (Dec. 19). “Ano-ano po ang dapat naming gawin kung mayroon po kaming nakikitang karahasan o pang-aabuso sa aming komunidad?” (What should we do if we happen to witness an abuse in our community?) ask one of the participant.  Hence, it is vital to conduct this kind of sessions as it raises their awareness on the various abuses and it gives them basic knowledge on how to report, who to report and where to report if in any instance, they witness such abuses. LVF will continue in CHAMPIONING CHILD PROTECTION AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT for the years to come!

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THANK YOU PCSO!
The Laura Vicuña Foundation had received 200 packs of goods from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) on Dec. 30, 2020! It was gladly received by the LVF Managing Director, Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA and the whole LVF Community. According to PCSO, they had chosen LVF as a beneficiary for their year-end gift-giving for they had seen its continuous and active programs, despite of the pandemic, especially with their solidarity initiatives on the ground-which means going out face to face with the populace just to bring its services to the people! These goods will be distributed to LVF’s Child Protection Communities. We heal as one!

December 8 – Immaculate Conception
We cannot pass this very significant day without celebrating the great Solemnity of Mary Immaculate.  This year was extra special and peculiar because our girls made the PLEDGE OF PURITY, no sexual relations until marriage! It was done within a solemn ritual in a prayer celebration with all the Sisters and LVF Staff.  A small card memento with the exact time, date, place and their signature made it not only memorable for the girls but a true promise to God of their purity with Mary as their model and guide.  The Sisters and Staff on their part fervently prayed that our girls may be faithful to their promise.  Come Dec 14 the President of LIVE PURE MOVEMENT, Sir Jose Ibarra Fabello Villas and Kuya JC a full time missionary of the said movement with the supportive help of Rev. Fr. Juvelan Samia,SDB, had a very intimate encounter with our girls via Zoom.  He strongly convinced them to believe that they are AMAZING, INSIDE- OUT!  They are WORTH WAITING FOR IN MARRIAGE and if in their past came a time when the complete opposite was said of them or their dignity as a person was violated; still, forgiveness is the key and moving forward should be the only choice to be whole again.  The two ‘kuyas’ heart rending apologies on behalf of their ‘kabaro’ who in anyway had been missed in their demonstration of respect for them brought most of us to tears.  It was indeed a treasured encounter of hearts and souls in the Lord!   We pray and hope that this encounter will be etched in our hearts and be kept alive in our choices in life.