LVF AWEGUST ENEWS
August was truly an “AweGush” month for us at Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc.—a season overflowing with awe-inspiring milestones, spiritual growth, skill empowerment, and deep community accompaniment among our centers.
At LVF Macarascas, Palawan, the community celebrated faith through the Institute Day Celebration, the receiving of the Sacrament of Confirmation, and the successful Entrepreneurship and Organic Agriculture Training and Graduation. Meanwhile, LVF Malihao, Victorias, Negros Occidental experienced a powerhouse month of vocational and cultural milestones, including the Housekeeping NC II Assessment, the Induction Program for TESDA Scholars, the Deployment of TVET Trainees, and an industry Company Visit to Lots ‘A Pizza Inc., alongside the Turnover of Educational Assistance, the vibrant Pagdiriwang ng Buwan ng Wika, Institute Day 2026, a unifying Team Building Activity, a rich Japan and Philippines Cultural Exchange, and the warm arrival of Sr. Ludovina Mochizuki, FMA. In LVF Cubao, Quezon City, educational opportunities and mission roots expanded through LVF REAP Learner’s Interviews, a strategic Partnership with UST Angelicum College, and active participation as LVF joined the Provincial Chapter 2026.
The LVF’s Weekly Activities anchored its mission in faith, dialogue, and fellowship through the LV Center Sharing on the Word of God (Lectio Divina), the insightful SolidaritySerye, and nationwide social work prayer through PASWI COP—making August a profound testament to finding family, purpose, and hope within the Salesian charism.
THE GIFT OF SALESIAN ACCOMPANIMENT: A VICUNIAN’S SUCCESS STORY: FINDING FAMILY AND PURPOSE IN THE LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION, INC.
LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC, – MACARASCAS, PALAWAN
INSTITUTE DAY CELEBRATION
SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION
ENTREPRENUERSHIP
ORGANIC AGRICULTURE TRAINING AND GRADUATION
LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC., MALIHAO, VICTORIAS NEG. OCC
HOUSEKEEPING NC II ASSESSMENT
DEPLOYMENT OF TVET TRAINEES
COMPANY VISITS TO LOTS A PIZZA INC.
JAPAN AND PHILIPPINES CULTURAL EXCHANGE
TURN OVER OF EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE
PAGDIRIWANG NG BUWAN NG WIKA
INSTITUTE DAY 2026
TEAM BUILDING ACTIVITY
INDUCTION PROGRAM FOR TESDA SCHOLARS
ARRIVAL OF SR. LUDOVINA MOCHIZUKI, FMA
LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC., CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
LVF REAP LEARNER’S INTERVIEW
LVF JOINS THE PROVINCIAL CHAPTER 2026
LVF’s PARTNERSHIP WITH UST ANGELICUM COLLEGE
LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
LV CENTER SHARING ON THE WORD OF GOD (LECTIO DIVINA)
SOLIDARITYSERYE
PASWI COP
THE GIFT OF SALESIAN ACCOMPANIMENT: LVF’s Success Story.
A Past Vicunian, Ms. Jonalyn Bren’s Testimony at the Provincial Chapter August 16 Goodnight Talk in Pansol, Laguna
FINDING FAMILY AND PURPOSE AT THE LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION, INC.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted… Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God… Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3–10)
When I first reflected on these words, I found myself asking:
Who are the blessed?
Are they those who have never experienced pain? Those whose lives have always been complete? Those who have never known loss?
As I looked back on my own life, I realized that Jesus’ words carry a much deeper meaning. The blessed are not those who have never suffered. The blessed are those who discover that even in their deepest wounds, God has never stopped walking with them. The blessed are those who experience that God sends people to accompany them, to love them, and to reveal His presence through ordinary acts of kindness.
As I reflected on the theme of our 25th General Chapter, “Blessed are you… With the prophetic power of the charism, missionaries of communication together with young people” I realized something beautiful. This theme is not only about the mission of the Salesian Sisters. It has become the story of my own life.
Tonight, I would like to share not simply a memory, but a testimony of how the Salesian way of accompaniment transformed the life of a little orphan into a woman who now desires to accompany others. It is not merely my story. It is God’s story…written through the people He placed in my life. One memory has become one of God’s greatest revelations in my life. Growing up as an orphan, I always had a quiet longing in my heart. A longing for the warmth of a complete family, for someone who would journey with me, believe in me, and remind me that I was never alone. Looking back now, I realize that God answered that longing long before I even knew how to ask for it.
At the age of six, God led me to the Laura Vicuña Foundation.
I entered as a little girl carrying more questions than answers. I entered searching for a place where I belonged. Fourteen years later, at the age of twenty, I left not simply as a young woman, but as someone whose heart had been formed by the Salesian spirit. Those fourteen years became the most formative years of my life. They shaped not only the person I am today but also the woman God was calling me to become. What I thought was simply a foundation became my home. What I thought were religious sisters became mothers in faith. What I thought was just a community became my family. The Salesian Sisters never made me feel that I lacked a family. Instead, they showed me that family is not only defined by blood but by people who choose to love you, accompany you, pray for you, correct you with kindness, celebrate your victories, and remain present in your life.
Through their accompaniment, I encountered God’s fatherly love and Mama Mary’s motherly tenderness.
For the first time in my life, I discovered that although I had lost many things, I had never lost God’s love. Among the people God used to shape my life, one person will always have a special place in my heart. Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, FMA. (MY MADER)
One lesson she taught me has echoed throughout my entire life:
“Always have a grateful heart.”
As a child, I memorized those words. As an adult, I finally understood them. Gratitude does not erase our wounds. It changes how we see them. Instead of asking, “Lord, why did this happen to me?” gratitude gently teaches us to ask, “Lord, where were You in all of this?”
Every time I ask that question, I come to the same answer.
He was there.
He was there in the Laura Vicuña Foundation. He was there through the Salesian Sisters. He was there through every person who accompanied me. He was there in every correction. Every smile. Every embrace. Every prayer. Every sacrifice made for us.
Sr. Marivic also taught me to remain faithful to God and to Mama Mary. The Salesian Sisters did not simply educate us. They formed us. They formed us to become honest Christians and responsible citizens. More importantly, they formed us to continue trusting God even when life becomes difficult.
One memory I will always treasure happened during our Gratitude Day celebration. I was chosen to portray Blessed Laura Vicuña. I didn’t like the role. I wanted to sing. I wanted to dance. I thought someone else deserved to portray Laura. At that time, I couldn’t understand why I had been chosen. But God knew better than I did. Years later, I realized that I wasn’t simply portraying Blessed Laura. God was unknowingly preparing me to live parts of her story. Like Laura, I would one day learn what it means to carry silent struggles. Like Laura, I would discover that faith often grows in hidden places. Like Laura, I would learn that love sometimes asks us to offer our pain quietly to God. Only years later did I truly understand what the sisters meant when they taught us to “suffer silently and smile always.” For a long time, I misunderstood those words. I thought they meant hiding our pain and pretending that everything was alright. But today, I understand them differently. To “suffer silently and smile always” is not to deny our suffering. It means entrusting our suffering to Christ.
It is believing that suffering never has the final word because Christ has already conquered it. It is choosing hope when everything around us invites us to despair. It is smiling not because life is easy but because God remains faithful.
As an orphan, I once believed that my greatest loss was growing up without a complete family. Today, I know my greatest blessing was discovering the family God Himself prepared for me.
The Salesian Sisters never pitied me. Instead… They believed in me. They challenged me. They corrected me. They expected more from me than I expected from myself.
At times, I did not understand their firmness. At times, I thought they were being strict. But now I understand. It was never ordinary discipline.
It was Salesian love. It was the loving firmness of Don Bosco and Mother Mazzarello. It was a love that never sought to break me, but to build me. That Salesian “tough love” taught me resilience. It taught me responsibility. It taught me to become independent. It taught me to stand firmly on my own feet while always remaining on my knees before God. It formed me into a woman who is strong, compassionate, responsible, and deeply rooted in faith. And perhaps one of the greatest gifts the Salesian Sisters gave me was teaching me the meaning of forgiveness.
They taught us that forgiveness is not forgetting the pain. It is not pretending that nothing happened. Forgiveness is choosing freedom over resentment. Hope over bitterness. Love over anger. At that time, I did not realize how much I would need that lesson. I thought forgiveness was simply another value we learned inside the Foundation. Years later, I discovered that it would become one of the greatest challenges and one of God’s greatest miracles in my own life. At one point in my life, I had to face one of the deepest wounds I carried. It was the wound of being left behind by my biological mother. For many years, I did not fully understand why things happened the way they did. Some questions remained unanswered. There were tears that only God had seen. There were moments when I wondered if I had been forgotten. Yet every time those questions filled my heart, I remembered what the Salesian Sisters had taught us. They taught us that Christ forgave first. They taught us that forgiveness is not waiting for the pain to disappear. Forgiveness is choosing to love even while our hearts are still healing. Little by little, through prayer, through the accompaniment of the Salesian Sisters, and through God’s grace, I learned to forgive my biological mother. Not because my past changed. Not because every question was answered. But because I no longer wanted my wounds to define who I was. The day I chose forgiveness was the day I experienced freedom. Today, when I look back, I no longer see a little girl who was abandoned. I see a daughter whom God never abandoned. One chapter of my life began with loss, but God wrote every chapter that followed with love. He gave me mothers in faith. He gave me companions on my journey. He gave me the Salesian Family. And through them, He taught me that forgiveness is one of the greatest expressions of hope. The words of St. Mary Mazzarello have also become a compass in my life. She tells us, “Courage, let us go ahead with a big and generous heart.” There were many moments when I wanted to give up. Moments when life seemed too heavy. Moments when I questioned God’s plans.
Yet those words gently reminded me to keep walking. Not because I was strong. But because God was walking with me. Mother Mazzarello also reminds us, “To be cheerful we must go ahead in simplicity.” As I grew older, I realized that Christian joy is not the absence of suffering. True joy is Christ’s presence amid suffering. Another saying of Mother Mazzarello became my refuge: “Speak little to creatures, but speak much with God.” Whenever life became too heavy, prayer became my safe place. There, my tears met God’s mercy.
There, my fears became hope. There, my wounds slowly became sources of healing. St. John Bosco also taught us that “The devil is afraid of cheerful people.” When I was younger, I thought cheerfulness meant smiling and laughing. Today I understand it differently. Christian cheerfulness is a quiet confidence that Christ has already conquered suffering. It is choosing hope over despair. Faith over fear. Gratitude over bitterness. It is smiling not because life is perfect but because God is faithful. As I reflected more deeply on the theme of the 25th General Chapter, “Blessed are you… With the prophetic power of the charism, missionaries of communication together with young people,” I realized something that touched my heart.
This theme is not only about the mission of the Salesian Sisters. It is also the story God has written in my own life. I am one of the many young people who were accompanied. I am one of the many lives transformed by the prophetic power of the Salesian charism. From age six to twenty, the Salesian Sisters walked with me through my childhood, adolescence, and youth.
They rejoiced in my victories. They corrected me in my mistakes. They prayed with me. They prayed for me. They laughed with me. They cried with me. Most importantly… they stayed. The prophetic power of the Salesian charism was never revealed to me through extraordinary miracles. It was revealed through ordinary faithfulness. Through a sister who listened. Through a correction given with love. Through a smile that restored hope. Through a prayer whispered in silence, through a community that became my family. The Salesian Sisters became true missionaries of communion long before I understood those words. They communicated Christ not only through what they said, but through how they lived. They made me feel seen. They made me feel loved. They made me believe that my story was not defined by abandonment but by God’s faithful love. They taught me that communion is far more than speaking. Communion is presence. Communion is listening. Communion is forgiveness. Communion is hope. Communion is accompaniment. Communion is making another person believe that God deeply loves them.
Today, wherever God sends me, whether in my family, my workplace, or among the people I meet, I know that this mission continues.
If someone feels seen because I listened…
If someone finds hope because I encouraged them…
If someone experiences mercy because I chose to forgive…
If someone discovers God’s love because I chose to accompany them… Then the Salesian charism is still alive.
Then Don Bosco’s dream continues. Then Mother Mazzarello’s spirit continues. Then Blessed Laura Vicuña continues to inspire. Perhaps that is the greatest miracle of accompaniment. A little girl arrived at the Laura Vicuña Foundation searching for a family. She left knowing that she had always been a beloved daughter of God. Someone once walked with me. So today… I choose to walk with others. Someone once believed in me. So today… I choose to believe in others. Someone once communicated Christ to me. So today… I desire to communicate Christ through my own life. For all these, I thank God.
I thank Mama Mary.
I thank Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, FMA.
I thank every Salesian Sister who became part of my journey. I thank the entire Salesian Educating Community. Because they did not simply care for an orphan. They became God’s instruments of healing. They formed a woman of faith. They strengthened a weary spirit. They awakened a mission. Most of all, they reminded me that I was never abandoned. I was, and will always be, a beloved daughter of God.
As we end this Good Night, may I invite each one of us to bring two questions into our prayer tonight.
Who first accompanied me to Christ?
Who became God’s instrument in helping me discover His love? Who believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself? Who prayed for me? Who corrected me with love? Who never gave up on me? And perhaps the more important question is this:
To whom is God calling me to become a missionary of communion and accompaniment today?
Who is waiting for my presence? My listening ear… my forgiveness… my encouragement… my smile…or simply someone willing to walk beside them? Because the Salesian charism is never meant to stop with us. It is a gift we receive. A life we embrace. And a mission we continue.
As Pope Francis reminds us, the Church grows through witness. I believe the Salesian Family has always understood this deeply: young people are transformed not only by beautiful words, but by adults and religious who choose to walk with them every day. I stand before you today as one small witness that accompaniment can change a life.
May we continue to walk with the heart of Don Bosco and Mother Mazzarello, inspired by the witness of Blessed Laura Vicuña, so that every young person we encounter may one day say:
“Because someone accompanied me, I discovered that God had been walking with me all along.”
May we truly become missionaries of communion together with young people, communicating Christ not only through our words but through our presence, our compassion, our forgiveness, our joy, and our unwavering hope. For indeed, blessed are those who accompany, for they become living signs of God’s love.
LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC, – MACARASCAS, PALAWAN INSTITUTE DAY CELEBRATION
August 5. The learners, staff, and sisters celebrated the Institute Day by attending Mass together. At lunchtime, everyone gathered for a simple fiesta celebration prepared for the sisters. After lunch, the staff and learners presented a simple program for all the sisters at the center: Sr. Rosalia, Sr. Erlinda, Sr. Leilani, Sr. Jacinta, and Sr. Evelina. The staff also presented a simple gift to the community as a token of gratitude and appreciation for the sisters and their service to the center.
SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION
August 18. Learners who had not yet received the Sacrament of Confirmation were allowed to receive it. Bishop Socrates presided over the Mass and administered the Sacrament of Confirmation.
ENTREPRENUERSHIP
August 12–14. The trainees participated in a 3-day Entrepreneurship activity aimed at promoting self-employment, creativity, innovation, and economic independence. The activity began with a collage-making session, where the trainees shared their personal life experiences with the group. On August 12, they engaged in product-making and labeling and were allowed to create their own product and design a proper label. The activity concluded with Entrefarm, an educational simulation game that taught the trainees about real-life farming cycles from January to December. Through the game, they learned about projected harvest months, potential annual income, and corresponding expenses.
ORGANIC AGRICULTURE TRAINING AND GRADUATION
August 20. The training ran from July 14, 2026, to August 19, 2026. Twenty-five participants from the Municipality of Quezon took part in the Organic Agriculture training. Most of the participants were farmers. The training aimed to give participants hands-on experience and practical application of the knowledge and skills they learned during the program. This helped them develop competence, confidence, and readiness for real-life work situations. The training also included entrepreneurship, encouraging participants to develop an entrepreneurial mindset and explore opportunities to start and manage their own businesses. After 32 days of training, the participants celebrated their graduation on August 20, 2026. The graduation ceremony recognized and celebrated their successful completion of the training program. It acknowledged their hard work and achievements while inspiring them to pursue future opportunities and continue lifelong learning.
LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC., MALIHAO, VICTORIAS NEG. OCC HOUSEKEEPING NC II ASSESSMENT
On August 7, 2026, the Housekeeping NC II trainees of Laura Vicuna Women Development and Training Center participated in the Housekeeping NC II Assessment held at Silay Institute, Silay City. Frances Aspa accompanied the trainees during the assessment. The assessment allowed the trainees to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and competencies they developed throughout their training. With dedication and perseverance, they faced the assessment with confidence and applied the proper procedures and standards required in the housekeeping industry. The activity marked an important milestone in their TVET journey as they worked toward demonstrating their competency in the qualification. More than an assessment, the experience allowed the trainees to put their learning into practice while building confidence, professionalism, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality service. The trainees’ participation reflects their dedication to learning and their determination to prepare for future employment opportunities in the hospitality industry. The school community commends the Housekeeping NC II trainees for their efforts and wishes them success as they continue their journey toward becoming competent, skilled, and service-oriented workers.
DEPLOYMENT OF TVET TRAINEES
Ten (10) TVET trainees took an important step in their journey when they were deployed to Manila, Philippines, on August 12, 2026. Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, and Sr. Naida R. Alcaraz, FMA, accompanied them and provided guidance and support throughout the deployment. The deployment marked a significant milestone for the trainees as they prepared to apply the knowledge and skills they gained in an actual work environment. It allowed them to gain valuable experience, build confidence, and further strengthen their workplace skills. For the trainees, this new chapter is not only about employment but also about embracing responsibility, independence, and the opportunity to grow as skilled and competent workers. The school community sends its prayers and best wishes to the ten trainees as they begin this new journey in Manila. May they carry with them the values, skills, and spirit of service nurtured during their time in the TVET program and continue to strive for excellence wherever their journey takes them.
COMPANY VISITS TO LOTS A PIZZA INC.
The visit strengthened the relationship between the school and the industry while providing valuable insights into the company’s workplace practices and employment opportunities. It also provided a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with OJTs and former pupils who are part of the company’s workforce. Through this visit, the school appreciated the experiences of its trainees and graduates in the workplace and recognized the importance of strong industry partnerships in providing meaningful opportunities for learners. The engagement reflects the school’s continuing commitment to building positive relationships with industry partners and supporting its trainees and graduates as they transition from training to the world of work. The school expresses its gratitude to Lots A Pizza Inc. for the warm welcome and continued support. Such partnerships contribute to the growth and development of TVET trainees and strengthen the connection between education, training, and employment.
JAPAN AND PHILIPPINES CULTURAL EXCHANGE
A meaningful celebration of friendship and cultural understanding took place during the Japan and Philippines Cultural Exchange held on August 15, 2026 (Saturday) at Laura Vicuna Hall. The gathering brought together the FMA Sisters, Japanese friends, faculty and staff, trainees, and students for a joyful exchange of cultures, traditions, and experiences. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for everyone to learn more about each other’s heritage while celebrating the friendship that connects the two communities. Through cultural presentations, shared experiences, and friendly interactions, participants discovered the beauty of both Japanese and Filipino culture. The occasion also encouraged openness, respect, and appreciation for cultural diversity. More than simply an exchange of traditions, the gathering strengthened relationships and created meaningful memories among the participants. It reminded everyone that friendship and mutual understanding can bring people from different cultures closer together. The Japan and Philippines Cultural Exchange celebrated friendship, unity, and cultural appreciation, reflecting the spirit of community that continues to enrich the life and mission of Laura Vicuna.
TURN OVER OF EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE
A meaningful turnover of educational assistance was held on August 15, 2026 (Saturday) at Laura Vicuna Hall, benefiting selected TVET trainees and Senior High School (SHS) students. The assistance was turned over in the presence of Sr. Ludovina Mochizuki, FMA, and Sr. Maria Imelda C. David, FMA, who shared the occasion with the student beneficiaries. The educational assistance provides valuable support to the recipients as they continue their studies and training. It eases some of the financial challenges of education and encourages beneficiaries to stay committed to their learning journey. For the selected TVET trainees and SHS students, the assistance is more than material support—it is an expression of care, encouragement, and hope for their future. It reminds them that they are part of a community that believes in their potential and is committed to helping them pursue their dreams. The occasion reflects the spirit of generosity and solidarity that continues to inspire the Laura Vicuna community. May the assistance received motivate the beneficiaries to persevere in their studies, develop their talents, and use their education and skills to serve others.
PAGDIRIWANG NG BUWAN NG WIKA
The Laura Vicuna community came together on August 26, 2026 (Wednesday) to celebrate Buwan ng Wika on the school premises, with the participation of Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, faculty and staff, TVET trainees, and Senior High School (SHS) students. Under the theme “Wikang Filipino at AI: Kasangkapan sa Pananaliksik at Tulay sa Yaman ng Impormasyon,” the celebration highlighted the continued importance of the Filipino language in the digital age. It emphasized how technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) can serve as useful tools in research and learning while encouraging everyone to value and preserve the richness of the Filipino language. The celebration allowed students and trainees to appreciate Filipino as a language of communication, learning, research, and cultural expression. It also encouraged them to explore how modern technologies, including AI, can be used responsibly to access information and support their academic and educational pursuits. Through the various activities prepared for the occasion, the school community celebrated not only the beauty of the Filipino language but also the creativity, talents, and cultural heritage of the Filipino people. The event fostered unity and appreciation for the language that connects us as a nation. The celebration served as a meaningful reminder that while technology continues to transform the way we learn and communicate, the Filipino language remains an important bridge to our identity, culture, and shared heritage. By embracing both language and technology responsibly, the Laura Vicuna community continues to encourage lifelong learning and meaningful engagement with the world of information.
INSTITUTE DAY 2026
On August 5, 2026, the school community gathered at the School Gymnasium for Institute Day 2026, a celebration of faith, gratitude, and community, commemorating the 150th anniversary of the first Salesian missionary expedition. The celebration began with a Holy Mass presided over by Fr. Jomar Bacucang, SDB, and attended by the FMA Sisters, Salesian benefactors, faculty, staff, trainees, and students. The Eucharistic celebration served as a meaningful reminder of the missionary spirit that has guided the Salesian Family for generations. The occasion recalled the historic first missionary expedition sent by St. John Bosco in 1875, which marked the beginning of the Salesian missionary movement. One hundred fifty years later, the spirit of mission continues to inspire the community to serve, educate, and accompany young people with faith, love, and hope. Institute Day 2026 was more than a commemoration; it was a renewed commitment to carry forward the Salesian legacy and mission, following the example of St. John Bosco and St. Mary Domenica Mazzarello in making a positive difference in young people’s lives.
TEAM BUILDING ACTIVITY
The faculty and staff, together with the FMA Sisters, stayed overnight at Balas Dako, Escalante City, on August 6–7, 2026. The activity provided a much-needed opportunity to pause from their regular work routines, relax, and enjoy meaningful moments together. Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA; Sr. Maria Imelda C. David, FMA; Sr. Violeta Erasmo, FMA; Sr. Ma. Pereluz J. Villanueva, FMA; and the faculty and staff attended the gathering. More than a formal team-building activity, the overnight stay provided time for rest, recreation, conversation, and fellowship. Away from the demands of the workplace, everyone had the chance to unwind and appreciate the gift of togetherness as one school community. The relaxing experience strengthened their sense of camaraderie. It provided renewed energy as they returned to their responsibilities of serving the school and accompanying the young in the spirit of the Salesian mission.
INDUCTION PROGRAM FOR TESDA SCHOLARS
On August 6, 2026, the TWSP Housekeeping NC II Scholars participated in the Training Induction Program for TESDA Scholars conducted virtually via the Zoom platform. Ms. Hillary Ticao, TESDA Scholarship Focal; Ms. Jonalyn Ayola, Housekeeping NC II Trainer; and Ms. Ailene Ondon, TESDA Registrar attended, along with representatives and scholars from the different schools invited to participate in the training program. The induction program formally welcomed the scholars and provided them with important information about their training, responsibilities, and expectations as TESDA scholars. It also emphasized the value of commitment, discipline, and active participation throughout the training. The activity served as an important first step in preparing the scholars for their Housekeeping NC II training, equipping them with the right mindset and information as they begin their journey toward skills development and future employment opportunities. The school community extends its best wishes to all the scholars as they pursue their training and competency goals.
ARRIVAL OF SR. LUDOVINA MOCHIZUKI, FMA
The Salesian community warmly welcomed Sr. Ludovina Mochizuki, FMA, upon her arrival in Malihao, Victorias City, on August 11, 2026. Sr. Ludovina was welcomed by Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA; Sr. Maria Imelda C. David, FMA; and Sr. Naida R. Alcaraz, FMA. Her arrival was a joyful occasion that brought the Sisters together in welcome, fellowship, and sisterly affection. The warm reception reflected the community’s spirit of unity and openness as they welcomed Sr. Ludovina. Her presence adds to the community’s joy and strengthens our shared commitment to living out the Salesian mission of accompanying and serving the young. With grateful hearts, the community welcomes Sr. Ludovina Mochizuki, FMA, and looks forward to the fellowship, collaboration, and shared mission ahead.
LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC, CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
LVF REAP LEARNER’S INTERVIEW
August 25. The REAP Coordinator and Social Worker interviewed a new learner from LVF-Cubao as part of the admission process for the REAP Program. The interview aimed to understand the learner’s educational background, needs, and readiness to participate in the program. Through REAP, the learner will be allowed to continue her education toward completing her studies while staying at the center. This program reflects LVF’s commitment to ensuring that every young resident has meaningful opportunities to pursue education and build a brighter future.
LVF JOINS THE PROVINCIAL CHAPTER 2026
August 15. The Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA) – Philippine Province (FMA-FIL) gathered with open hearts to mark the formal opening of this year’s Provincial Chapter in Mornese, Pansol, Laguna. Recognizing that all true renewal flows from divine grace, the delegates and participating sisters convened in profound unity and prayer to initiate this sacred period of discernment, deliberation, and transformation for the entire Province. Every morning, the day’s work begins at the Eucharistic table with the celebration of the Holy Mass, anchoring every proposal, conversation, and decision in the light of Christ. Sr. Teresita Padron, FMA, Provincial Superior, offered a warm welcome to the assembly before officially declaring the Chapter open, inviting everyone to remain attentive to the Spirit’s gentle promptings throughout the proceedings. The initial three days served as a vibrant testament to communion and shared responsibility. In a spirit of synodality, the Sisters engaged in a meaningful encounter with their lay mission partners, holding open dialogue and deep reflection on the various works, educational institutions, and social apostolates of the FMAs across the Philippines. This collaborative period was also a vital opportunity for the lay mission partners, with Ms. Rosea Marie Monsay representing the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc., to freely express their ideas, opinions, and suggestions grounded in their firsthand experiences working alongside the Salesian Sisters. Through these open discussions, the assembly examined current realities, addressed emerging challenges, and listened attentively to the insights of those who share in the mission’s daily life. This shared journey rekindles the fire of the Salesian charism of St. John Bosco and St. Mary Mazzarello—ensuring that the Province’s mission remains dynamic, responsive, and deeply rooted in faith for years to come.
LVF’s PARTNERSHIP WITH UST ANGELICUM COLLEGE
September 7. UST Angelicum College continued to strengthen its partnership with the Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF) by facilitating the signing of a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) to ensure the privacy, confidentiality, and protection of LVF learners’ information. On September 7, Ms. Arnie Jane Bedonia signed the NDA at UST Angelicum College alongside a Social Worker from the REAP Department. The agreement reinforces both institutions’ commitment to safeguarding sensitive learner information and upholding confidentiality throughout their educational partnership.
LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
LV CENTER SHARING ON THE WORD OF GOD (LECTIO DIVINA)
Each week, after Gospel reading and Adoration before the Tabernacle, the LVF Educating Community convenes for group faith sharing facilitated by the Sisters and staff. This cherished tradition creates a sacred space for deep listening. It powerfully reminds our Vicunians of their strength as they navigate life’s challenges, discover deeper meaning in their trials, and encounter God’s grace along the way. Adding to the sanctity of the moment is the silent moment of each group member as they hold hands or lay hands on one another after sharing, uniting in prayer as they offer up their intentions.
SOLIDARITYSERYE
The Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF) extended its spirit of compassion to families and children in Marikina and Culiat by distributing bread and egg yolks. This initiative reflects LVF’s continuing commitment to serving communities and reminding them that every act of kindness can make a meaningful difference. Throughout the Habagat season, Laura Vicuña Foundation extends its spirit of compassion to families and children in Marikina and Culiat. By sharing bread and egg yolks, LVF provides not only nourishment but also comfort, care, and hope to communities in need. Together, let us continue to be a source of hope and compassion, especially during these challenging times.
PASWI COP
Hosted by PASWI local chapters across the Philippines, the Circle of Prayer (COP) brings social workers together every Wednesday evening from 8:00 to 9:00 PM for Lectio Divina, co-hosted by local chapters nationwide. This gathering offers social workers a peaceful mid-week respite to recharge, while providing a platform to share personal testimonies of God’s goodness and grace. Mr. Jerico, a social work student from Universidad de Sta. Isabel de Naga, shared that ‘sometimes in life we experience problems, doubts, and uncertainties that make us question God. However, Jesus reminds us that God is not the God of the dead but of the living, meaning that He gives hope, life, and eternal promise to those who believe in Him. Another lesson from this gospel is the importance of strengthening our relationship with God while we are still living. He also emphasized that life on earth is temporary, so we are called to live with kindness, faith, love, and compassion toward others. In her sharing on the gospel of Mark, Ms. Marifer Royo, a social work student from Universidad de Sta. Isabel de Naga, shared that “As I prepare for my future profession, I am inspired by this gospel to become a social worker who brings hope, encouragement, and support to others. May we always remember that God sees life, potential, and worth in every person. And may we do the same in our service to others.” PASWI-COP offers social work practitioners and students a meaningful platform to connect over Scripture, share powerful stories of God’s grace, and highlight how faith fuels their vital work.
