November on the Move
LVF ON THE MOVE: CARING FOR THE WORST HIT TYPHOON VICTIMS

On November 12, 2020, the Salesian Sisters and staff at the Laura Vicuna Foundation (LVF), Quezon City, Philippines were receiving calls and text messages from our community frontline volunteers at our LVF Child Protection Communities which are disaster prone communities. “Typhoon Ulysess wrath has caught us off-guard. Our areas are a mass sea water, the roof of our houses are submerged in water.  We have been rescued by the government motorboats and have been brought to the schools which are now turned into evacuation camps. We have no food, nor clothes or they are all wet and swept by the flood.  Pray to Mary Help of Christians for us.” Six (6)typhoons in a row have hit the Philippines since Octoberup to Nov 12, 2020, leaving the Filipinos devastated! The Pandemic problem aggravates the cramp situation at the evacuation centers.  We cannot turn deaf and blind to the plight of our suffering brethren. More than the 2,112 regular food packs, 5,810 kilos of rice distributed for the whole month of November, some hygiene kits, pre-loved clothes, medicines, school supplies brought by LVF weekly to the people at the Child Protection Communities.

LVF QUICK RESPONSE TO TYPHOON ULYSSES VICTIMS IN MARIKINA

The Laura Vicuna Foundation is on the move, quick to its feet and responded to these calamities. Early morning of 13^th November, the LVF staff and girls packed 405 kilos of rice from our pantry, pre-loved clothes and hygiene kits.Ryan Azucena, LVF Social Worker, Lovely de Guzman, our volunteer aboard the Child Protection Clinic on Wheels VAN,braved the storm as they visited with great difficulty the communities near the families along rivers of Barangay Pinagkaisahan and Judge Jimenez in Quezon City and Taguig City.  They were not able to reach Marikina as it was still underwater and full of mud. Moved with compassion for the typhoon victims, Laura Vicuna Foundation Community in Quezon City started a series of solidarity initiatives for the whole month of November to help rebuild the lives of the typhoon victims.

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LVF DISTRIBUTED 1,000 SACKS OF 5 KILOS RICE TO AFFECTED FAMILIES OF TYPHOON ULYSSES IN MARIKINA
NOV. 30, 2020. The LVF Sisters happily cooked 305 hotmeals, prepared juices, pre-loved clothes, vitamins and school supplies for children of the most affected areas of the typhoon.  Seeing LVF solidarity initiatives, goodness multiplied. Some of the past pupils and friends of LVF gave money and 600 packs of groceries comprising of loaves of bread, 6 canned goods, coffee, chocolate milk, biscuits and candies. LVF was able to deliver another 5000 kilos of rice to 1000 families at 5 kilos each per family in Marikina Communities: Tumana, Nangka, Bayabas, Camachile who were greatly devastated by the said typhoon.  It took Sr. Rosalia Panganiban, FMA and LVF Social Workers six-hour drive of rerouting to reach the different communities in Marikina since the roads were impassable because of the flood water & mud.The poor families appreciate greatly the care and nearness of God through the care, the LVF Sisters and staff do with their regular visits and accompaniment for them, the flood victims.

LVF ONLINE ADVOCACY serye
While some NGO’s suspended their operations since March 2020 because of the pandemic, LVF has been creative in reaching out regularly to the children, youth and families by the conduct of online child protection learning hubs, family advocacies with food distribution. LVF has reached 1, 687 children, youth and parents during the Online Advocacy Session on United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child: Children’s Rights and Responsibilities conducted via Googlemeet to its Child Protection Communities (CPC) in Pinamana Site, Taguig, Judge Jimenez, General Trias in Cavite, Marikina, Bacood, Botocan, Hillcrest, Sta. Mesa which children and youth actively participated. “Ngayon, mas naintindihan ko na kung ano baang mga karapatan at responsibilidad ng mga kabataan. Ako’y nalulungkot sa video na kung saan ang mga bata ay nakakaranas ng pang-aabuso sa mismong tahanan nila.”(I now know and understand what are child’s rights & responsibilities. I am saddened by the video where children are experiencing abuses in their homes.)Said Kuya Omar, one of the parent participant shared after the session.“It is a challenge to us, as parents, to protect our children from all kinds of abuses, to practice positive discipline among our children.We are thankful for LVF that we are able to hear this session to broaden our knowledge especially that this concerns our children.” LVF ADVOCACYserye continues! The kids were also happy to receive food packs of rice, chicken & palabok delivered to them after the session. This is also in commemoration of the World Day of the Poor. LVF continues not only to give HOPE A HOME especially in this trying times but help every child, youth and family say with conviction that God who is my Hope is My Home!

LVF #iamBRAVE(BOYS REJECT ABUSE, VIOLENCE, AND EXPLOITATION) ONLINE SESSION
Nov. 27, 2020. LVF Social Worker, Mr. Ryan Azucena conducted an online advocacy session on Gender Sensitivity: #iamBRAVE to 144 Criminology Students of CSAV who, afterwards, committed themselves to Reject Abuse, Violence and Exploitation.This forms part of LVF’s  18-day Campaignto End Violence Against Women and Children November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) until December 10 (Human Rights Day)by virtue of Republic Act 10398 ,or the Act declaring November 25 of every year as the National Consciousness Day for the Elimination of VAWC.

I AM A CHILD:I COUNT, I PARTICIPATE!
NOV. 07, 2020. The Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF) children advocates, represented by Shane, Josephine & Remilyn, joined and participated on the Stress Management for Children Webinar organized by the RSCWC-MIMAROPA in celebration of the National Children’s Month with this year’s theme:  SAMA-SAMANG ITAGUYOD ANG KARAPATAN NG BAWAT BATA SA PANAHON NG PANDEMYA on Nov. 7, 2020. This has paved way for the children to share their experiences through a drawing of their personal crest on how they were coping with the effects brought by the COVID-19 Pandemic.

VICUÑANS RECOLLECTION WITH FR. FAVIE FALDAS, SDB!
Thank you Rev. Fr. Favie Faldas, SDB (Don Bosco Makati – Rector) for lending us your precious time and expertise in facilitating and introducing a very Salesian tradition this month of November, the Exercise of a Happy Death. Fr. Favie creatively and amusingly tackled with our girls the reality of death and of dying, he pointed out to them that it is inevitable; that all of us will pass through it and no one living can ever escape it.  He also convinced them on the significance of preparing oneself at all times because again, no one knows when it will come.  Fr. Favie retold animatedly how Don Bosco developed in the boys of the oratory that sense of preparedness by the monthly exercise of a Happy Death by simply clearing and cleaning up their personal belongings and most importantly their hearts/souls in confession and communion.  Yes, the boys of Don Bosco, if asked ‘what will they do should they learn that it is their last day on earth?’ they would readily answer; we will still play and do our daily tasks.  This just goes to say that they were truly prepared.  As conclusion Fr. Favie recommended several films to emphasize the ‘beauty of death’ and of dying prepare and anticipating the final meeting with our Creator God who has loved us. The girls with Sr. Ana did the Exercise of a Happy Death days after the talk of Fr. Favie.

DO-IT-YOURSELF POP UP CARD!
Christmas is very near! Christmas trees and Christmas lights everywhere! Hence, it is a delight for LVF girls to learn how to make pop-up cards! With their creative minds and skillful hands, they were able to finish a cool DIY Pop-Up cards! Thanks to Tugon Ateneo who patiently taught the girls in making one. This was done via Zoom! 

COOL-LINARY FOR LIVELIHOOD @ LVC
It is really cool to be in the Kitchen!  The girls with Sr. Ana, FMA had a real cool time crafting cakes, cookies and other yummy stuffs to the delight of the community and some fortunate recipients of our Do-It-All kitchen creation.  True to the ideals of Don Bosco and Mother Mazzarello to keep our young people busy in worthwhile, educative activities and to LVFs commitment to empower them to help themselves in the aspect of self-sufficiency, reliance and financial independence.   The Girls enjoyed such endeavors and shared their know-how to each other without hesitations.  COOKING POWER is WOMAN POWER!

LVF RECEIVES A PLAQUE OF RECOGNITION AS PART OF “QC LABAN SA COVID-19”
On November 28, 2020, The Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF) was given a Plaque of Appreciation through its representative, Mr. Ryan Azucena, LVF Social Worker, by Barangay Pinagkaisahan Council in their 2^nd Semester Barangay General Assembly Calendar Year 2020 which was held at Ramon Magsaysay High School.
As last April 21-22 and May 03, 2020, Barangay Pinagkaisahan, headed by its Chairman Mrs. Graziella Saab, issued a Barangay Executive Order No. 12, creating a team of evaluators for the Social Amelioration Program of the DSWD. LVF, represented by its social worker, sit as one of the evaluators together with other individuals from different sectors and organizations called as “SAP Evaluators” that identify and evaluate the prospected beneficiaries for the Social Amelioration Program of the DSWD. At LVF, we are also grateful to the Barangay Council not only for this award but also to their unending efforts and commitments to their responsibility of serving and making sure the safety of its residents especially in this time of Pandemic crisis.

LVF PALAWAN E-NEWS FOR 2020 NOVEMBER
 
HOLY WIN CELEBRATION OF ALL SAINTS DAY
Instead of the usual Halloween party every November 1, the resident learners of the Laura Vicuna Center Palawan dressed up to their favorite saints, paraded and spread holiness and proclaimed the sayings of their chosen holy men and women. The HOLY winners during the program were St. Dominic Savio, St. Maria Schinina and St. Maria Goretti. Holiness runs in the Salesian Family and through this activity, the young gets a glimpse of the Salesian gardens in Heaven.  

LVC PALAWAN CELEBRATES NATIONAL CHILDREN’S CELEBRATION
Republic Act 10661 declares the commemoration of National Children’s Month every November with the adoption of rights of children by the United Nations general assembly in November 20, 1989. This year’s theme is, “SAMA SAMANG ITAGUYOD ANG KARAPATAN NG BAWAT BATA SA PANAHON NG PANDEMYA. ” In celebration of the 2020 National Children’s Month, our staff Ms. Delia Valledor with the assistance of Francisco Gabua and Ed Orpilla, facilitated a session on the Rights of Children among our resident learners last November 3, 2020. The resident learners got the chance to review their four major rights as children: Survival, Protection, Development and Participation through the different group activities.  “SAMA SAMANG ITAGUYOD ANG KARAPATAN NG BAWAT BATA SA PANAHON NG PANDEMYA”  Last Nov 7, 2020, some resident learners joined a Webinar on STRESS MANAGEMENT FOR CHILDREN organized by the Regional Sub-Committee for the Welfare of Children- MIMAROPA.

RESIDENT LEARNERS SHOUT YES AHA!
Youth Empowerment through Sustainable Agriculture and Health Advocacy 
LVF Palawan conducted two succeeding activities, our very own “YES AHA” Season 2 and 2020 Final Season. The usual farm activities (Cleaning the Area, Land Preparation, Waste Segregation and Urban Gardening), we make it as AMAZING RACE for the YOUTH to make it exciting. YES AHA stands for Youth Empowerment through Sustainable Agriculture and Health Advocacy. Every after Amazing Race, the staff select and award BATANG MAGSASAKA to learners who showed Grade 9 & 10 learners during the YES AHA Amazing Race.

LAUDATO SI DAY
Some parents came for the monthly farm help as we called it “gulpemano”, but for now we call it “Laudato Si Day” meaning Care for the our Common Home . Giving them the instruction/input on farming followed by the actual hands on in the farm.

PLANTING RICE IS NEVER EASY
Time comes to prepare our rice field for us to plant rice even this is for the second season on rice planting, still tilling it, and preparing until harvesting. One of the parents Tatay Ruben Abello prepared the rice field using the center’s tractor.

BYE BYE PLASTIC…. HELLO ECOBRICKS…. FANTASTIC!
LVF is studying and developing of a technologywe called it Bye-bye Plastic Hello Ecobricks, collecting all plastics around the LVF area go through with the process of cleaning, washing, drying and the last is putting all the cleaned and dry plastic waste in a 1.5 plastic bottle until it is full. We make it as a permanent and concrete sidings of our plots the full 1.5 plastic bottle. To utilize and maximize the waste into something good.

STAFF ENHANCEMENT SEMINARS
As part of the staff enhancement and development program, they attended the webinars conducted by FarmTech through Zoom meeting even this time of Pandemic. This is to to acquire more knowledge and skills in farming. Goat Raising and Composting was attended by one of our staff Francisco Gabua. Agri Records attended by Mrs. Matet Palma. Fruit Propagation attended by our farm cooperator Sr. Aleth Evangelista FMA. While the inbred rice training is ongoing attended by Mr. Ronnie Palma.

Octoberfest

Almost everywhere in the world, we hear this famous description of the month of October; “OCTOBERFEST”.  And although it is undoubtedly associated with ‘drinking-bouts’ (a period of drinking, especially one involving intensive alcohol consumption) we can further say that ‘drinking’ is also equal to celebration.Here at LVF, we want to highlight that indeed our experience of the month of October is a FEAST! 

LVF 30^TH VIRTUAL ANNIVERSARY SABADO NIGHT CELEBRATION!

On Oct. 03, 2020, the Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF) walked down memory lane as it gathered its past and present Vicunians, Sisters and staff who merrily reminisced and wholeheartedly shared not only their experiences but the values they learned, treasured and applied in their daily lives now that they have their own families and is walking separate journeys. 

Sr. Marivic, LVF Managing Director said in her welcome address,  “Ang kasaysayan ng Laura Vicuña Foundation ay MAKULAY, MAKAHULUGAN, at PUNONG-PUNO ng BUHAY..IKAW AT AKO, TAYONG LAHAT ANG LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION!” . (The history of  Laura Vicuna Foundation is full of color, meaning and life.  You and I, all of us, are Laura Vicuna Foundation.) 

LVF is not just a mere structure that provides shelter and roof above “HOPE’s” head, HOPE, the name LVF gave to every children & youth, but it provided them sense of belongingness & acceptance, warm feeling of home, flicker of hope, and a Salesian spirit that lives, that transforms love into action! These values which they found at LVF are instilled in their hearts and is now becoming ripples of goodness! The proof of it were the testimonies of gratitude by LVF’s past Vicunians: Allen Ojera who worked at a 5-star hotel, Jesson Matrimonio, now a licensed teacher, Ryan Azucena, licensed Social Worker and Maricel who is a beautician abroad. They are, indeed, few of many proofs that not only is “HOPE” finally at home but each can deeply claim that, “HOPE is my HOME”!

LVF ON THE MOVE: WEEKLY SOLIDARITY serye!

The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc (LVF) 30^th Anniversary celebration continues with our weekly Solidarity serye! As our weekly commitment, LVF have distributed a total of 2,400 hot meals from March to September for our most affected Child Protection Communities brought by the COVID-19 Pandemic. This is made possible in partnership with our October sponsors: Mr. & Mrs. Javier & Catherine Puno who pledged 500 food packs, Ms. Mel Salgado who chose to celebrate her birthday by sponsoring hundred hot meals along with her classmate in high school, Anna.

In celebration of the WORLD DAY for the HOMELESS (Oct. 10); International Day of the Girl Child (Oct. 11) and WORLD MISSION SUNDAY (Oct. 17), LVF has distributed a total of 400 hot meals with juices, school supplies for children and pre-loved clothes for all ages! All these, for our Homeless brethren & Child Protection Communities in Judge Jimenez, QC,Brgy. Pinagkaisahan, Hillcrest, Culiat, Bacood, Manila. Together, WE HEAL AS ONE!

LVFI PALAWAN

CELEBRATION OF THE SEASON OF CREATION
The Church declares the month of September until October 4, 2020 as the Season of Creation. This is a call or an invitation to care for our common home, our Mother Earth. Instead of the usual farm help the parents offer us, as an educating community composed of sisters, staff, parents and learners, we organized a “Laudato Si” Festival. October 4 marks the Feast of St Francis of Assisi known as the father of ecology. We celebrated Laudato Si Festival through our various program activities to express our care for our common home. The program began with an opening prayer on Creation followed by an inspirational talk of Sr. Aleth Evangelista, FMA. We then proceeded to the ground and planted 30 seedlings of kalamansi, guyabano, atis, anf other fruit bearing trees to signify also this year’s 30^th anniversary of our Foundation.
The day was enjoyed by everyone with the Amazing Race which includes:

1. Sack the Treasures – where each group with their designated place picked up pastics and trashes around and placed them all in a sack.
2. Plant, Plant, Plant – enabled the groups to prepare the soil media for planting by mixing garden soil, manure, carbonized rice hull and concoction.
3. Friends with Vermi – was the most exciting part of the race where each group have to get vermi worms which we kept in the vermi house to produce vermicast and be used for planting.
4. Clean Pa More – with another designated place, the groups showed their landscaping prowess where they cleaned and beautified the garden.

Bakod Me Na – lastly, each group fenced the gates using bamboo materials.

BYE BYE PLASTIC HELLO ECO BRICKS FANTASTIC PROJECT 

As part of the community Laudato Si program, we introduced and launched our new project in the center dubbed as BYE BYE PLASTIC, HELLO ECO BRICKS FANTASTIC! Each one will place their plastic wrappers in a one liter empty plastic bottle and when we are able to gather them, we will use them as our plot sidings or fence in the farm. In our little way of protecting the environment, we strive to live Laudato Si day by day.  

CHILD’S PARTICIPATION

October 2, 2020 – One of our resident learners Agnis Mae Bumanlag was chosen by the Council for the Welfare of Children to represent the foundation during the Philippine National Children’s Conference (PNCC) 2020 cum Magna Carta for Children. Through this zoom encounter, our children were able to express their feelings and opinions of the present situation of the young including their voices of advocating for child protection even in farmlands and especially in far flung areas like Palawan.

LVWDTC-MALIHAW, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL OUTREACH

October 5, 2020. Laura Vicuña Women Development Training Center (LVWDTC) Community distributed lunch included fried chicken, pancit with rice and cheese burger for snacks to all the dedicated front liners (Barangay Police and Tanods, BFAT, Guards, Traffic enforcers, Gasoline pump boys and Victorias City Domestic Repatriation Information Center Personnel) of Victorias City. Everyone was surprised and thankful to be one of the recipients of the Don Bosco Mondo Project.

EXTRAORDINARY VISITATION of SR MABEL PILAR, FMA to LVC

On October 5 and 6, 2020, we welcomed Sr. Mabel Pilar, FMA, our Provincial Superior, for her two-day extraordinary visitation to the Laura Vicuna Center, Quezon City. It was a celebration of authentic family encounter.  We had grown fond of her and it was not just a visit of a superior but a most awaited ‘home coming of a mother’.  The educating community gave to the best of their ability their contributions to make her feel loved and cared for.  The girls cooked their specialties, had a well- chosen presentation and most importantly opened themselves up to the promptings of the Holy Spirit in their encounter with Sr. Mabel, so did the Sisters and Staff.  Our tagline for this provincial visitation was, “Sr. Mabel, you are Mary in our midst!” Yes, you are Mary among us!  We celebrate your presence.

UST ANGELICUM REAP PROGRAM ACHIEVEMENT TEST

The moving forward of the LVC girls in their YS (Year in School Level) was something to feast upon.  Yes, this October they did it again; climbed up the ladder a step forward.  Thanks to their determination, discipline, hard work and great sense of purpose to shape their future.  And thanks too to our ever dedicated Sisters and lay mission partners who faithfully journeyed with them on a daily basis, patiently teaching and researching with them in accomplishing their school tasks.

Six of our LVC girls are currently enrolled at the Ramon Magsaysay Senior High School, Cubao for ABM (Accounting & Business Management) strand.  We dare describe this venture as Evolution for us here @ LVC because they are under the E-Module Program which clearly calls us to evolve and move with the rest of the world in terms of maximizing technology, giving emphasis on the good it renders more than the threat it gives to our girls.  REVISION which is modification of rules and the “what we used to do’ in terms of accompaniment of our girls in healing and recovery; exposing them to the web and social media is a leap to the unknown for us a call of greater trust in the young (as we all know ours are young people at risk) trying to hit the balance between prudence and openness for growth and development.  Again, WE DARE the UNKNOWN, WE take on the CHALLENGE.

JOURNALING WORKSHOP BY SR ROSALIA PANGANIBAN, FMA

A two day Journaling workshop was organized by Sr. Rosalia,FMA for our LVC girls. We all know that young as they are, they want to keep secrets, relish their experiences by writing diaries and composing poems. We capitalize on this reality and so took the opportunity to make this ‘interest’ of young people a formative one.  Sr. Rose gave them an input on the WHY, WHAT and HOW to go about journaling. The workshop than made the girls more interested and excited to do journaling. A topic was given for reflection, a step-by-step jotting down or even doing various art expressions and lastly sharing their journaling experience. We strongly affirm that this workshop was indeed a needed educative formation for them. The girls will surely profit with regards to their healing and recovery journey. This is one good form of expressing what’s deep within them, in naming their emotions and most importantly their state of being so to help.

LVF @ 30: THREE DECADES OF GIVING HOPE A HOME!

Aside from the famous, timeless love song “September Morn,” there was also an oil painting on canvas completed in 1911 by the French artist Paul Émile Chabas with the same title that depicted a young woman standing in the shallow water of a lake, prominently lit by the morning sun , saying clearly how hopeful life can be.  Thirty years ago the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. was born. It was the fifth of April 1990 when the Salesian Sisters and Lay Professional who became the Trustees, gathered at the Salesian Sisters’ Provincial House to organize it.  LVF was officially approved by the Philippine Security Exchange Commission on the 19^th of September 1990. LVF continues to champion Child and Youth Protection and Empowerment.

On its three decades of reaching out to the youth, the Laura Vicuna Foundation (LVF), REJOICES and CELEBRATES as WE GIVE THANKS to GOD ALMIGHTY for reaching 30,000 children and youth in 2019 alone and a hundred of thousands in 30 years. LVF Cubao started the day with a THANKSGIVING MASS. We thanked God for all the children and youth served through the 30 years by the Salesian Sisters, Trustees, Staff, Volunteers, Grassroots Advocates, Donors Benefactors, Partner Networks, Schools, Communities in METRO MANILA (QUEZON CITY & STA. MESA, MANILA) VICTORIAS CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL & MACARASCAS, PALAWAN & CPC Communities in TAGUIG, MARIKINA, CULIAT, BACOOD, CAVITE, JUDGE JIMINEZ, HILLCREST & PINAGKAISAHAN.

In 2018, the LVF had served 28,839 young people and in 2019, we served 29,736 children & youth. LVF had organized four (4) National Conferences. Three of them were the Children of the Canes National Conferences to combat issues on child labor, exploitation and trafficking, and the latest which was held in July 30, 2019 was the National Conference on Child Protection & Youth Empowerment held at Novotel with 140 participants.  It culminated with the launching of the LVF Book “Hope is my Home: Best Practices of the Laura Vicuna Foundation”.

GIVE HOPE A HOME: LVF SOLIDARITY INITIATIVES, TRANSFORMING LOVE INTO ACTION

The Laura Vicuna Foundation, in its 30^th anniversary celebration, continued its commitment of transforming love into action! The LVC Sisters, girls and staff had prepared almost 700 food packs for our front liners at the National Children’s Hospital, Child Protection Clinic Communities (CPC) in Taguig, Cavite, Heneral Uno, Marikina, Judge Jimenez & Brgy. Pinagkaisahan! WE HEAL AS ONE.

NATIONAL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL & LVF CPC TAGUIG

The LVC Community heartily prepared 200 hot snack foods of “pancit” with juices for our front liners at the National Children’s Hospital, and an additional two (2) kg of rice, pre-loved clothes, & ball pens for LVF-CPC Taguig families on September 13, 2020.

LVF-CPC HENERAL UNO, CAVITE

There is no greater way of expressing our concerns to our brethren who are in difficult circumstance than to unceasingly and untiringly cook and prepare something for them. LVF Sisters, girls and staff cooked and packed rice and adobo for a hundred and ten (110) persons for CPC Cavite. They also prepared for the children: school supplies, medicines, toiletries and pre-loved clothes. Our Cavite grassroots women advocates happily received all the goods at their chapel. 

LVF-CPC BRGY. PINAGKAISAHAN

Our anniversary celebration continued with our solidarity initiative! Mr. Javier & Mrs.  Catherine Concepcion-Puno had sponsored hot meals & juices for 500 persons! LVC Sisters, staff & girls first cooked 100 lunch meals with juices, puto & prepared school supplies for Brgy. Pinagkaisahan- LVF Child Protection Community. We heal as one.

LVF JOINS THE PPAEVAC CHILDREN’S CONSULTATION WORKSHOP

Kudos to our Laura Vicuna Child Advocates who have actively participated in the Children’s Consultation Workshop organized by the CWC via Zoom. Their contribution is essential in the Development of Philippine Plan of Action to End Violence against Children (PPAEVAC) by sharing and discussing their thoughts, suggestions and inputs on the document. Thanks to the Council for the Welfare of Children.

LVF-CHILD ADVOCATES ON THE PNCC 2020 CUM MAGNA CARTA for CHILDREN

The Laura Vicuna Foundation-Child Advocates, Hannah Yap & Agnis, represented LVF Cubao & LVF Palawan respectively, have actively participated on the Phil. Nat’l Children’s Conference(PNCC) 2020 cum Magna Carta for Children on Oct. 2 via Zoom.

SEASON OF CREATION

The Season of Creation is a month long prayerful observance that calls the planet’s 2.2 billion Christians to pray and care for God’s creation. It’s a time to reflect on our relationship with the environment — not just “distant” nature, but, crucially, the place where we live — and the ways in which our lifestyles and decisions as a society can endanger both the natural world and those inhabiting it, both humans and other creatures. The Season of Creation is a time to renew our relationship with our Creator and all creation through celebration, conversion, and commitment together. During the Season of Creation, we join our sisters and brothers in the ecumenical family in prayer and action for our common home. LINK

The Laura Vicuna Foundation has been very consistent in prioritizing and educating our young people to Laudato Si.  Here at LVC, we continue to further our care of the earth by our steady progress in our urban gardening endeavor.  Sr. Rose Panganiban together with our three girls from Palawan have re-launched the composting process in organic planting.  We dream that one day our community, though big in number, may be sustained by the vegetables we grow.  This is our concrete share in healing our Mother Earth and preserving our common home.We capped the month long celebration by inviting the Salesian Youth Movement-FIS (South Province) headed by Rev. Fr. Vince Michael Sabal, SBD with Ms. Tachi  and Mr. Eduardo Empis, Jr. 

Don Bosco Green Alliance Network

(FROM THE SYM-FIS FB POST)
The FMA sisters organized a virtual culmination activity on Season of Creation for the learners of Laura Vicuña Center-Palawan and Laura Vicuña Foundation-Cubao to enable them to be more well-grounded and motivated about our common vocation to be stewards of the Earth. Thanks to the Salesian Youth Movement-FIS for making this possible. A special closing prayer service for the Season of Creation and celebration of talents also took place. The best part of the activity was to listen to the voices of these young people about their personal views on taking care of the environment and to feel their genuine love and appreciation for creation. #DonBoscoGreen#EAODBGA#SeasonofCreation2020

CWC WEBINAR

As a member of the National Steering Child Rights Advocacy, the Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF) through its representative Ms. Mercedes A. Juncia was invited to attend the webinar of the Council for the Welfare of Children’s (CWC’s) National Network to End Violence Against Children (VAC) entitled “Big Little Steps:  Actions Made to Conquer VAC During COVID-19” on September 16, 2020 through Zoom. Resource persons of the webinar included Dr. Bernadette Madrid of the Child Protection Network (CPN), Dr. Liane Alampay of the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU), Atty. Gil Anthony Aquino of the Department of Education to name a few.  Topics discussed were“Innovative positive parenting techniques, Life skills development and Service delivery” on online and offline VAC.  The webinar was the first installment in the two-part webinar series, which aimed to highlight the accomplishments of both the government and civil society in the implementation of the Philippine Plan of Action to End Violence Against Children (PPAEVAC).  The series of webinars would also capacitate the general public on how it could simulate these accomplishments in the local communities, especially during these unprecedented times.

SEMINAR ON MINIMALISM AND ORDERLINESS

Our dear Vicunians were given a two day seminar workshop on “Minimalism and Orderliness” by Sr. Rosalia Panganiban,FMA licensed social worker. “The word ‘minimalist’ prefers the minimal amount or degree of something. Becoming minimalist, is marked by clarity, purpose, and intentionality. It describes a way of thinking or lifestyle. Meanwhile, minimalism is a tool that can assist one in finding freedom. It is also the process of identifying as what is essential in one’s life or in other term getting rid of one’s life excess. A Minimalist is a person whose interest is to keep their things very simple.” (from Sr. Rose’s ppt)  Being minimaIist is very much related to being orderly especially in things. These topics were very relevant to the girls as it touched good housekeeping, neigh, more orderliness and simplicity that is within and exudes spontaneously to lady-likeness and womanhood. It also builds within the girls a ‘culture of I have enough’ as it advocates simple lifestyle by avoiding clutters and acquiring to much for oneself. Thanks to Sr. Rose’s passion to educate and share her know-how to our girls; she did not only give an input but followed up with Sr. Ana the girls’ practical commitment in keeping their personal things trimmed and simple. 

Sept 8th

Happy Birthday Mama Mary! This very important occasion did not pass without us celebrating it and expressing our love, devotion and dedication to our dearest Mother Mary.  Yes, the Vicunians did it  by animating a prayerful recitation of the Holy Rosary with heartwarming initiatives and by showcasing the different litany titles of our Blessed Virgin.  As what Sr. Marivic  in her good night talk has quoted Don Bosco’s“Mama Mary is here among us!”; we are never in want when it comes to Mama Mary’s active presence in our community and personal lives.

DO-IT-YOURSELF TIE-DYE SHIRTS 

What a colorful fun! The LVF girls have learned new skill which exhibited their artistry. Thanks to the Alpha Delta Mu Sorority: Association of Dynamic Medics for teaching them the steps of the do-it-yourself (DIY) tie-dye-shirts. They also taught the girls the basics of Marketing 101 which includes the basic of social media marketing skills, making logos, infographics on marketing advertisements, and basic financial management in starting a small business. They also shared their personal challenges as young entrepreneurs to the LVF girls. It takes perseverance, sacrifice, difficulties to overcome especially in starting a business. Truly, women empowering women.

LAURA VICUNA FOUNDATION-NEGROS OCCIDENTAL NEWS … ADOPT A FAMILY

The Educating Community of Laura Vicuña Women Development Training Center had the chance to share its blessings to one of the poorest families in Victorias City as the Community joined the 28^th National Family Week spearheaded by the City Social Welfare and Development Office last end of September, which the very objective of this “Adopt-A-Family” Program is to help selected families alleviate their mental, psychological and economic stress.The collaborative efforts of the Sisters, teachers, staff and support personnel made the early “Gift-Giving” materialized where the recipients Lola Tereseta D. Basco together and her grandson Christian received rice, home apparels, goods, foods and cash. This 74 year–old hardworking Lola used to gather seashells at “Baybay” and sell it to sustain their everyday living as she also takes care her grandson. She is a widower and lives in a small simple house at Purok 8, Brgy. 9, Daan Banwa, Victorias City. Very much surprised with such great blessings, Lola Tereseta could not but repeatedly uttered her word of “thanks” as she said “Thank you Sisters and SCWD for these wonderful gifts that you gave us. It is a big help especially for my grandson. May the Lord keep you healthy, safe and blesses you the more” October 5, 2020, Laura Vicuña Women Development Training Center Community distributed lunch included fried chicken, pancit with rice and cheese burger for snacks to all the dedicated frontliners (Barangay Police and Tanods, BFAT, Guards, Traffic enforcers, Gasoline pump boys and Victorias City Domestic Repatriation Information Center Personnel) of Victorias City. Everyone was surprised and thankful to be one of the recipients of the Don Bosco Mondo Project.

PACKED LUNCH DISTRIBUTION

Last September 6, 2020, the FMA and some teachers of LVWDTC Malihao, Victorias City, Negros Occidental, through the aid receive from the Don Bosco Mondo Project had its first batch of distribution of meals for the health workers of Brgy.XX, Victorias City. The meal included rice, fried chicken and chopsuey for lunch, siopao and bottled water for snacks.  The barangay captain Hugo Tirambulo, assisted in facilitating the event and in a speech he expressed his gratitude. Ma’am Fely Cebas one of the barangay health workers also spoke to express her thanks. Last September 14, 2020, the FMAs delivered the 2nd batch of Don Bosco Mondo’s meal recipients to the doctors and nurses of Victorias City Health Center headed by Dr. Richard P. Garlitos, M.D. and Ma’am Melba Defino, head nurse. The meal included rice with fried chicken and chopsuey for lunch and hotdog sandwich for snacks.  September 21, 2020. LVWDTC Community on its third batch of distribution prepared and gave meals to the doctors, nurses, and medical assistants of Victorias City Health. The lunch packs included chicken adobo, rice, water and for snacks burger sandwich. For the 2nd time around Victorias City Health gave thanks to Don Bosco Mondo Project. Sept 28, 2020. LVWDTC Community once again delivered and distributed the 4th batch of meals to Victorias City Health Frontliners (doctors, nurses, medical assistants). The lunch consisted of fried chicken, chopsuey, water and cheese burger for snacks. One of the medical assistant Ms. Melba Defino was surprised and glad to receive again free meals from Don Bosco Mondo Project. 

LAURA VICUNA FOUNDATION – PALAWAN

September is declared as the Season of Creation. Prior to this pandemic time, every September every person living in Puerto Princesa City can avail a free tour to the famous Underground River. Even if tourism stopped, we take a look at the brighter side of life. Our Mother earth is able to rest and replenish. Palawan is a world famous and best island and now during the pandemic, the local people are suffering yet still happy because God provides what is needed, fish in the sea, vegetables in the farm and enough light and rain. Despite the daily struggles, we are thankful for the gift of creation around us that gives us hope and courage to face every day.  

STATISTICAL DATA
As to date, there are 61 resident learners, 21 boys and 40 girls.
As of September 2020, no one absconded and no one was re-integrated. 

SOCIAL SERVICE .. 10 NEW RESIDENT LEARNERS
10 new resident learners were welcomed to the center for this new school year. After the process of selection through the intake, personal interview of parents and the child, submission of pertinent documents, the contract for admission was explained to both parents and learner. A child protection policy was also read to the parents and made signed by them. Two girls came from Barangay Marufinas, a separate island near the famous Underground River. Three from Barangay Cabayugan, one from Buenavista, one from Barangay Sta. Cruz, two from Barangay Macarascas, one from Aborlan. All these children came from poor families and their houses are quite far from the national high school. It is clear to them that in the center, they are protected, and all we want is to give them hope and a brighter future through their integral formation.

DAILY PLAY
Play is the most awaited part of the day for the resident learners. They look forward to their time for play. The boys love to play basketball while the girls badminton or volleyball. Some also try soccer and other prefer to get a musical instrument and play the guitar. They are given an hour in the afternoon to recreate themselves and enjoy the time in the company of their friends, most of the time chatting and laughing with their stories. Play is very important. The children are able to use their energies through their play and develop in them their sense of oneness, teamwork, unity and cooperation.

LVF@30 – Sept 19
Last September 19, we celebrated LVF@30! Thirty years of giving hope to young people and families through its various programs and services. We praise God for the three decades of bringing children and young people towards their dreams. 

HOMESTUDY PROGRAM 

VOLUNTEERS ON THE MOVE 
Volunteers stayed and helped out in the studies of the resident learners and tutored them in the subjects they have. We are grateful for their generosity and availability.

ONGOING ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION TRAINING 

The OAP training continued and ended last September 12, 2020. Before the course ended, the trainees were also asked to draft their farm or garden plans so they can apply what they learned in their respective lands.

GRADUATION DAY – September 16, 2020

19 trainees on Organic Agriculture Production NC ll graduated last September 16, 2020 at the Laura Vicuna Center Palawan in the presence of TESDA representatives Ms. Jovelyn Alcazar and Mr. Jeriel Lagac, on behalf of Tesda Palawan Provincial Director Richard Amparo. Secretary Isidro Lapena, TESDA Director general greeted the trainees and congratulated them through his video message. The graduation started with a Thanksgiving Mass celebrated by Fr. Rex Bangcaya, OAR, parish priest of San Rafael Parish, Aborlan. It was also graced by the presence of Kagawad Jojo Oliveros of Barangay Macarascas and Mr. Raul Matillano, City Agri Technician. Bishop Broderick Pabillo, Sr. Mabel Pilar and Sr. Ma. Victoria Sta Ana also sent their congratulatory messages and were read at the assembly.  
 
After completing 232 hours with core competencies on Organic Chicken, Vegetables, Fertilizers, Concoctions and Extracts as well as basic and common competencies on workplace communication, health and safety measures and elective competencies on raising organic hogs and small ruminants, they are now certified farmers and ready to work in the field. The training started last July 27, 2020 and ended last September 12, 2020. The trainees were also fortunate to be scholars of TESDA under TWSP or Training for Work Scholarship Program where they were given training support allowances and fund for their PPEs. The best learning of the trainees aside from the farming skills is the love for our common home. Laudato Si sessions were also integrated, ending the course with a recollection on care for our Mother Earth. Batch 1 agreed to have their batch name as SOIL which means SAMAHAN NG MGA ORGANIKONG INIIBIG ANG LUPA. This one dream come true for the center is our concrete contribution during this Season of Creation. 

OUTREACH .. YES AHA

PROJECT YES AHA (Youth Empowerment through Sustainable Agriculture and Health Advocacy. YES AHA is LVF’s project started by three youth leaders Jopet, Jemboy and Rubelyn. They are the youth helpers among their fellow youth in their journey of making a difference in the community and in society. Through this project, they will encourage the young to participate in LVF’s youth formations and activities. The three youth advocates have learned organic agriculture through the OAP training and now they will engage the youth to learn the importance and beauty of organic agriculture through inputs and actual gardening / farming. Their concrete step is their project “Hardin Laban sa COVID 10.” Health Advocacy will be a venue to listen and be a friend to their fellow youth. They will discuss issues concerning their health – physical, emotional and mental well-being. They will also share their experiences of the pandemic and other related issues experienced by many young people. The social media can also be their platform for their health advocacies.

SOIL – SAMAHAN NG MGA ORGANIKONG INIIBIG ANG LUPA

Batch 1 trainees of Organic Agriculture Production NC ll who graduated this month named themselves SOIL (Samahan ng mga Organikong Iniibig ang Lupa) They desire to continue even beyond the graduation by forming themselves into an organization where they will be united in their goal to produce chemical free compost and other naturally made farm products. In this way aside from producing the natural way, they will increase their economic living through their equal share of their profit. It is uplifting and helping each other than thinking only personal gain.  

CONCLUSION
Life is never the same without the noise of the children. It is music to our ears when they chat, laugh, sing and make noise. We are thankful that amidst pandemic, we are able to continue with our mission of giving hope a home. The 30 years of the Foundation is a great blessing for each member of the educating community – sisters, staff, volunteers, lay mission partners, benefactors, parents and young people. May our home continue to welcome people from all walks of life especially the poor, the least, lost and last.

BLISSFUL AUGUST

The word ‘blissful’ aptly described the atmosphere that pervaded our humble home this month.  Not many activities though, our journey consisted of going back to our roots that gave us a delightful feeling of belonging and therefore, of rootedness to our origins, to our being FILIPINO! 

BUWAN ng WIKA

The girls excitedly prepared for a 3 day ‘fiesta’ on our being Filipino which started even before the month of August.  We had Individual declamation on Ibong Adarna, Florante at Laura, Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, research and essays on Wikang Filipino, Cook Fair on Filipino dishes and Filipino Folk Dances; we also watched, reviewed and reflected on a short film entitled “Heneral Rizal.”It was an enjoyable and educational endeavor that had exhibited the intelligence and talents of the Vicunans.

Urban Gardening Webinar

Urban gardening was a fun-filled activity for me.  It made me relaxed and get in touch with the nature and mother earth.  I was really happy when the Sisters gave me the opportunity to attend a webinar on urban gardening.

This webinar was all about landscaping and how to beautify the garden.  I learned that the plants must have sufficient space to breathe and the rotting  and the discarded vegetables could be used as it decomposed and turned to be an additional soil to make the plants grow better.  Another  learning I had gotten from this webinar was the use of Rice Hull as soil- softer that made soil cultivation easier. One more interesting topic was Soil Preparation and Basic Design, I was amazed how seeming rubbish could still be used to plant and beautify our garden.  Old shoes, pails, broken pots and glasses took center stage in urban gardening.

This too, is the wonder of human innovative and creative minds.  Yes, we can save the earth; the choice is always in our hands, YES WE CAN!

– Chrizzan Joy Tundan,17

FAREWELL SR. CORA & NANAY VERNS

LVC was visited by the angel of death twice this August, we grieved the loss of Sr. Corazon Jaca, FMA (Aug. 12, 2020) who died of cancer and Ms. Javierna Soberano (Aug. 22, 2020). Ms Javierna,who was fondly called by the Vicunians as Nanay Verns, worked with LVF as a houseparent for 21 years.  She was admittted on August 15 and died at St. Luke’s Hospital due to lymphoma and diabetes.  Both of them were NON-COVID patients. We had entrusted Sr. Corazon and Nanay Verns to the care of our Good Lord in heaven.  We believed that this was not a permanent goodbye but a ‘see you again’ in the Salesian Garden in Paradise.  We were more than grateful for their lives spent for the good and salvation of the young. As we continue in this life, your good, edifying example of self-giving will be imitated the best way we can.  We love you, Sr. Cora and Nanay Verns!

LVF’s LOVE IN ACTION!

LVC Sisters and girls happily cooked and packed two hundred (200) hotmeals, juices, pre-loved clothes and vitamins for CPC Communities in Brgy. Pinamana Site, Taguig and Brgy. Pinagkaisahan, QC.

Women Leader Advocates, led by Nanay Nitz and  Nanay Agnes from the said CPC Communities, gladly received the goods which was personally brought by Sr. Rose Panganiban & LVF staff! This is LVF’s monthly solidarity commitment as we experience the rough waters due to the Global Pandemic. We heal as one!

Fly High July
We Celebrate ! We Give Thanks!
We count our blessings as we realize how blest LVF is that in spite of the COVID-19 Pandemic we soared high this July! Hats off to our 2020 JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL COMPLETERS (Laura Vicuna Center, Palawan and Cubao, Q.C.) of the REAP UST-ANGELICUM COLLEGE Inc. Program via online Moving Up Ceremony last July 25, 2020. We strongly affirm your perseverance, diligence, sacrifices and self-discipline, you have reached this far because you lovingly endured and nourished your DREAM for a better tomorrow and quality of life.  Congratulations!

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Vicunians Grade/Year Level Acceleration 

We also congratulate our Vicunians at the LVC, Cubao for stepping up the ladder that is for being accelerated to the next year level of their modular program with UST-Angelicum!

LVF Solidarity Initiatives in this Global Pandemics

As our Child Protection Clinic (CPC) activities are put on hold due to the pandemic, the Laura Vicuña Foundation-Cubao made a monthly commitment to serve 200 to 500 hot meals and juices to medical frontliners, vulnerable groups including our CPC Communities in Marikina and Brgy. Pinagkaisahan. Coming together to fight this pandemic, we really can HEAL AS ONE!

PRE ORIENTATION FOR TESDA TRAINEES ON OAP NC ll

Last July 17, 2020, the center conducted a pre orientation among the prospect enrollees for the upcoming Organic Agriculture Production NC ll approved by TESDA. 19 slots were allotted to us by TESDA’s Scholarship Program. Prospect trainees arrived at the center and registered observing the health protocols set by the institution. LVF Palawan staff Ms. Matet Palma gave the orientation among the trainees including the overview of the training program LVF Palawan farm consultant Mr. Melchor Gabua shared personal knowledge and experience of Organic Farming among the trainees. 

TESDA ONLINE INSPECTION ON HEALTH PROTOCOLS

Inspection of TESDA on Health Protocols to ensure the center is COVID free and fit to run the training program. The inspection was via messenger facilitated by Ms. Mary Grace Francisco from TESDA Provincial Office. Our staff Francis Gabua facilitated the tour of the center showing the posts and necessary compliance according to the set requirements by TESDA.

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TRAINING INDUCTION PROGRAM (TIP)

Last July 27, 2020, LVC Palawan in partnership with TESDA launched the training program through the TRAINING INDUCTION PROGRAM. TESDA General Director Isidro Lapena and TESDA Palawan Provincial Director Rosalinda Talavera gave their video messages to the trainees emphasizing the importance of the training and Tesda’s goal of reaching out everyone especially during this pandemic crisis. Health protocols were reiterated since the training will be on a face to face mode of learning. The COVID 19 lecture via video was also watched by the trainees. Other guests graced the occasion – Macarascas Barangay Captain Jane Villarin, Kagawad Mario Recorte and San Ezekiel Parish Priest Fr. Flor Manlongat. During the program, the Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) was also explained to the trainees where TESDA provides scholarship for each of them. The event ended with the “Panunumpa sa Kalikasan”, a promise to take care of Mother Earth and an actual planting of seedlings in the farm symbolizing a new beginning and a new journey for each trainee as well as for the educating community of LVC Palawan.

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TEAMWORK WORKS @ LVC!

July 10, 2020. Every day of our lives we interact with each other. We do work and achieve our daily goals with the help of each and every one! And yes, we are most often than not, a team which moves towards achieving our SHARED GOALS! Today, the LVC-Cubao girls have enjoyed and learned about teamwork! Through play, the girls were able to define T.E.A.M themselves and identify the values of the team. What transpired the most is the importance of TRUST, INCLUSIVITY (MEMBERSHIP), COOPERATION, and MOTIVATING OTHERS with the help of the team members! 

PACT-GAA LEARNING SESSION

LVF- representative, Ms. Joy Hugo joined the Philippine Against Child Trafficking – Girl Alliance Advocacy (PACT – GAA) Learning session about setting up community watched Group (Gender – based violence) last July 21, 2020 through Zoom Virtual meeting. The purpose of this meeting is to help or facilitate members of PACT-GAA in establishing community watch group in their barangay. Setting up this kind of mechanism help people in the community to be more vigilant in addressing issues on violence against women and children, trafficking, and on – line sexual exploitation. Members of the community watch group will be more visible and accessible in the community in responding to people in need.

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Events Management Webinar

Webinar, Zoom meeting, google classroom, and fb room… part of the New Normal… still, LVF is unstoppable!  Thanks to people who share our common cause for the empowerment of these young ladies.  They never hesitated to share their expertise in the field they excel at and patiently accompanied them to ‘birth’ new ideas/concepts and so paved the new path for them to believe in themselves and their capacity to achieve meaningful projects.  With grateful hearts we salute you Ms. Cristina Martinez, CEO of CLM Events Management! To our surprise she posted in her social media account her heart felt experience with us, here it is: –

“A few weeks ago, I was requested to conduct an events management webinar for the girls of Laura Vicuna Foundation. The first session was to teach them how to organize a simple event. After the lecture, I gave them an assignment and agreed to e-meet again so they can present their concept paper. Two weeks later, as they were getting ready to give their presentation as a group, I noticed their smiling but nervous faces, and honestly, I didn’t know what to expect. I was also nervous because I was unsure if I was able to teach them properly. I’m not a teacher and don’t have any experience giving talks. But these girls are smart and I was impressed with their presentations considering the limited information that they have. Salute to Sr Ana Guerrero and everyone behind the Laura Vicuna Foundation, you are all HEROES to these girls. Thank you for giving them a chance to heal and live a better life. I pray that more people will support your foundation so you can help more girls who need a safe and loving environment. God bless your kind and loving hearts! ❤️ #nationalheroesday”

HELLO JUNE!
June ultimately comes from the the Latin Iunius, “of Juno (Iuno),” referring to the Roman goddess. The name Iuno itself appears to come from the Latin iuventas, “youth,” which is related to words like juvenile and rejuvenate. Though this June 2020 is a totally different one because of the COVID – 19 Pandemic and therefore, the GECQ, ECQ, MECQ that tried to take the upper hand on us; the LVF never surrenders hope, it, in fact, ignites JUNO/ iuventas,“youth”! proof of its pro- youth and eternal youth commitment is.

The Launch of the LVF@30 CPC ONLINE!

June 05, 2020. True to the Laura Vicuña Foundation’s (LVF) mission, we at LVF Child and Youth Advocates reach out to our peers as we launch the LVF-CHILD PROTECTION CLINIC ONLINE! The COVID-19 Pandemic won’t stop us in reaching out to children and the young.Dubbed as the ONLINE LEARNING HUB, the LVF activated its youtube channel and facebook account with the official hashtags #LVF@30 and #LVFCPConline!

The aim of this LVF-CPC Online Learning Hub is to mainstream children’s rights and responsibilities, protective behaviours, gender sensitivity, and issues concerning children especially in this time of national health crisis with the help of our committed child advocates, sisters and staff! In our present situation, technology, has become the avenue that connects us to our community, environment and the whole world. Upon its launching, we were able to release three (3) videos already highlighting the LVF-Child Protection Clinic Online; Child’s Rights and Child’s Responsibilities on June 09, 19, and 21 respectively and gained a total of 1,944views; 467 shares and 300 likes on both facebook and youtube channel! And we are propelled to make more! Our preferential love for the children and young people at risk impels us to undertake this missionary daring, it is surely tedious and challenging but we shall continue, knowing that ‘hope never disappoints.’

LVF IN SOLIDARITY WITH THE GLOBAL HEALTH CRISIS!

The Laura Vicuña Foundation will never stop reaching out to our brothers and sisters who are at the silver lining, especially in this time of global health crisis which brought so many drastic changes in our lives. Hence, the LVF-FMA Sister, staff and girls are on the move, cooking and preparing hot meals forour Child Protection Clinic (CPC) Communities in Brgy. Pinagkaisahan and Taguig.

CPC-BRGY. PINAGKAISAHAN

June 28, 2020.  Inspired by the charism of St. John Bosco, our FMA Sisters, staff and girls of LVC-Cubao had gladly cooked and prepared a hundred packs of hotmeals with juices for our Child Protection Clinic (CPC) communities in Judge Jimenez and Brgy. Pinagkaisahan which includes our Brgy. Officers on-duty! In solidarity with the worldwide health crisis we are experiencing at present, we are doing our best to make them feel that no one is left behind. For together, WE HEAL AS ONE!

CPC-TAGUIG

June 30, 2020. In Commemoration of Don Bosco, June 30, the LVC-Cubao FMA Sisters, staff and girls merrily cooked and prepared another hundred hotmeals for our Child Protection Clinic (CPC) community in Taguig! Together, let God’s grace work in us all! Let us give hope to our brothers and sisters so that they may feel loved and remembered especially in this challenging time for together, WE HEAL AS ONE! 

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Integral formation/education of youth

The Sisters and Staff are unbeatable when it comes to the welfare, growth, development and education of the girls.  It is like an invisible engine that propels creativity, innovation and ingenuity wheeled together all for the advancement of youth.  Yes, we continued on in our UST-ANGELICUM Home Study Program (REAP) and Exams, this time allowing our girls to move up in their educational attainment.  They had passed a higher level this June through the effective practice of peer- tutorial with the faithful supervision of the Sisters and some Social Workers.

Sisters Marivic Sta. Ana, FMA and Analyn Guerrero, FMA take turns in organizing film reviews, analysis,reflections and discussions.  These are valid fora for our girls to benefit more from what they watch and not remain in the superficial level of just being entertained.  ANNE with an E, Merlin, The Big Flower Fight, and Marvel Movies were but the several films they have seen. The life skill and SYM sessions continue, fortunately, the girls have more time for these kinds of formative meetings which enunciate interior growth as it also broaden their sense of community building and peer leadership.  Aside from this, the girls are also given the chance to have occupational training which could serve as additional learnings that they can use when they leave the Center.  Sr. Maria Bui ,FMA  missionary to Papua New Guinea, has given them online sessions on hair grooming, hygiene and cutting.  Sr. Clara Alacapa, FMA with  Ms. Javierna Soberano, Judith Cuadro and Anjodelyn Sebastian have begun peer- teach cooking and  cakes, cookies and bread baking.Ginalyn Castanares has spearheaded paper making and recycling while Marifel Villaver has done Ice Cream making tutorial. Apostolic daring and determination to empower the girls have made each one of us accomplish little yet significant things while in Quarantine.  We are ever grateful that we remain healthy, strong and caring for each other.

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POPE’S DAY CELEBRATION

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June 29, 2020. As a Catholic NGO, the Laura Vicuna Foundation adheres and promotes love, reverence and support for the Roman Catholic Pontiff, Pope Francis.  To highlight Pope’s importance in our faith-life, the LVC-FMA sisters and some older girls organized a QUIZ BEE@LVC on the Pope ( our present Pope and the Papacy (his office).  The celebration started with the Praying of the Holy Rosary for the intentions of Pope Francis followed by the reflection and sharing on the Word of God in the Gospel reading of the day, answering the question of Jesus to Peter; “Who do you say that I am?”.  One would really marvel at the reflections of the girls which they shared in small faith circles.  Danah, 15 (not her real name) said:  “I have answered this question before but now it has become more real in my life as the Covid-19 pandemic still thrives.  Jesus is now my protector, he does not only give me safety but He has become MY safety.” Aheartfelt sharing of each one’s experiences of God’s graces in their lives followed. Afterwards, the girls bravely took on the challenge for the Quiz Bee, the Sisters had prepared on the Life of Pope Francis and the Papacy! Everybody was at first very much nervous! For the first time in their lives, they were all joining a Quiz Bee! Nevertheless, everyone learned, had fun and had a new amazing experience! Long Live the Pope! 

THANK YOU SR. GLORIA!

There is truly a time for everything. And today, it is our time to bid our goodbye to Sr. Gloria Agagon, FMA. Who was with us at LVC for more than two years! The girls adored the jolly, the performer, the orator sister.  We are blessed to have met and learned from her. However, to fulfil her obedience as a nun, Sr. Gloria will be transferred for her another assignment. The FMA Sisters, LVC girls and staff prepared a despedida for her! There were lots dancing and laughing and tears too. But we are very happy for Sr. Gloria’s presence at the centre. She has spread vibrancy and life and is a model of a person who dearly loves Mother Mary and she is able to radiate it to the girls. Her parting message is worth remembering d of course, she won’t be Sr. Gloria, Sr. Rocker if she didn’t do the ‘Elvis Presley  medley’ for us. We love you Sr. Gloria, til’ we meet again!

LVC PALAWAN FARM PRODUCTS AVAILABLE ONLINE

With the ongoing pandemic crisis, our material resources and funds are at stake since there was an abrupt decrease of donation in our Foundation. In order to sustain our operation, we explored the possibility of ONLINE SELLING of our farm products – SEEDS, ORNAMENTAL PLANTS, HARVESTED VEGETABLES AND FRUITS

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INSTALLATION OF A “TALIPAPA” – ENTREP FOR GRADE 10 LEARNERS

In order to sustain our daily operations, we also installed our “talipapa” small store to sell our products in front of our farm. It is also a good venue for our Grade 10 learners to teach them Entrepreneurial session and practice for them to learn the art of doing small scale business.  

LVC PALAWAN PROGRAM BEST PRACTICES SHARING AT THE VICARIATE OF PUERTO PRINCESA  

LVC Palawan shares its Success Stories and Best Practices at the General Assembly of the Heads and Teachers of the Parochial Schools of the Apostolic Vicariate of Puerto Princesa City. Sr. Janis Mia Aguirre, FMA shares the centershome study program which is in partnership with UST Angelicum College Inc. Our staff farmer Matet Palma shared our Farming Program and Ms. Christine Garobo, volunteer social worker discussed the social services of our center. We continue to provide the poor young people and children in need of special protection of Palawan their right to Education, Protection, Development and Participation.

STAFF ANNUAL MEET – EVALUATION, PLANNING AND REVISITATION OF OUR FIVE YEAR DEVELOPMENT PLAN

The staff composed of Sisters and lay mission partners spent a day to meet and plan for the new normal. We revisited our five year development plan and aligned our activities for the year.  

ORIENTATION ON T2MIS – TESDA

One of our staff Mr. Francis Gabua went to TESDA office for the orientation of the T2MIS facilitated by Mr. Roland. T2MIS means TESDA TRAINING MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM. It is the process of registering and enrolling learners/students as well as timelines on program enrollment and completion.

FENCING OF OUR CENTER

The fencing of the center is now being done through the generosity of donors. This is an important thing to secure our place and ensure safety and protection. Special thanks to Jugen Eine Welt and to Engineer Armand Lustre!

Amazing Quarantine

At LVF life does not simply goes on, LIFE BEGINS every day because every day is a new beginning!  Yes, it is truly amazing to find out that in the face of this extended ECQ and as its seeming terror looms wider; we find ourselves more serene and calm as days go by.  Time became precious and being together as a family is more treasured, activities set not just tasks to accomplish, but duties done with responsibility.  We have grown as individuals and as a community!  We have reached the conviction that COVID 19 can let us feel isolated BUT BUT NEVER WILL BE ALIENATED FROM THE REST OF HUMANITY.  And ONE with the WHOLE GLOBAL FAMILY OUR BATTLE CRY REMAINS … WE HEAL AS ONE!

LVF CARES:  Living our SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

For almost three months after the President’s order of putting Metro Manila in an Enhanced Community Quarantine, the Laura Vicuna Center-Cubao, a Salesian Spirit in action, extended help to our modern day heroes, the FRONTLINERS. With the support of Atty Joel Syquia and family, we distributed five hundred (500) packs of hot meals with juices, cooked and prepared by the LVC-Cubao FMA Sisters, staff and girls.  Our LVF Staff was cordially welcomed by  The National Children’s Hospital and East Avenue Medical Center on May 07 and May 16 respectively.

This undertaking acknowledged the frontliners’ efforts to combat the COVID 19 Pandemic and a clear demonstration of their fidelity to their oath, risking their lives while saving others. Leaving their own families so that others may remain with theirs. Inspired by the charism of St. John Bosco and St. Mary Mazzarello, we continue to act with courage, sympathy and faithful prayers in this challenging time. Let us lead a life-giving Church! Solidarity in action and at its best!

LVF SOCIAL WORKER FORMS PART OF S.A.P. EVALUATORS

The Social Amelioration Program (SAP) is a program instituted by the government through the “Bayanihan to Heal as One Law” that provides emergency subsidy and assistance in crisis situation to families who are greatly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in the country. And the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is the government’s implementing body in this new program. To ensure transparency in the identification of qualified beneficiaries, the Barangay Councils of Brgy. Pinagkaisahan headed by their Chairman Mrs.Graziella Saab issued a Barangay Executive Order No. 12, S-2020, creating a team of evaluators whose main task is to evaluate and identify the qualified beneficiaries of the said program based on the guidelines given by the DSWD. There has been widespread news and complaints coming not only from the residents but even from the LGUs that there is corruption in the program implementation and the slow distribution of the emergency subsidy.

Coming up with a team, the Council of the Brgy. Pinagkaisahan has invited the Laura Vicuna Foundation to sit as one of the evaluators, represented by the LVF Social Worker Mr. Ryan Azucena RSW together with the other team members (chaplain-priest, 1 lay minister of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral Parish, 1 LuponTagapamayapa, 1 professor of Crame Cubao, 1 teacher of Ramon Magsaysay Cubao High School). The Team of Evaluators, was given an orientation by the DSWD employees with the help of barangay officials about the guidelines for the qualifications of beneficiaries of the SAP. In order for them to start the identification of the beneficiaries. The evaluation and selection of 841 qualified families out of more than 4,000 filled out forms took 2 days (April 21-22,2020) to finish the verification and validation processes of the information though house visitation was conducted by the barangay in order to make sure that the selected beneficiaries really deserve the subsidy under the Social Amelioration Program.

On May 03, 2020, the barangay Chairman called for an assistance from the team of evaluators for another set of evaluation and identification process since many of the selected families who were selected on the first set were disqualified after the house visitation conducted by the barangay councils. It was found out that some written information on the forms are not true. The barangay is having a hard time since the National government is imposing a deadline for the distribution of the cash grant which will have a second tranche next month. According to them it really takes time because of the geographic area and number of families under their jurisdiction added to this that the system is new covered by the SAP. The Laura Vicuna Foundation is very much honored to have contributed in this trying times even in a simple way, working for the welfare of the people in the community specially on this pandemic COVID-19 crisis where many of the activities under our Community- Based program were suspended such as our Child Protection Clinic on Wheels and Advocacy Awareness Sessions.

LVC NEGOSYO NA!  (ENTREPRENEURSHIP)

Amidst this COVID-19 Pandemic, the LVC Sisters has taken the opportunity to teach the girls in-depth knowledge on entrepreneurship, equipping them with life skills so that they become life-ready when they are no longer at the Center. So that they become self-sufficient individuals responsive to their basic needs.

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The nine-day afternoon sessions were facilitated by Sr. Clara Alacapa, FMA. They have learned the 101 of business Set-up, advertising, partnership and marketing, to mention a few. The girls have learned how to make effective advertising materials, set up their own company with innovative and new products and showcasing their creativity in marketing strategies and more.  Activities like these encouraged them to think independently, practice their decision-making, work collaboratively with their peers, cognitive capacity and develops too their social skills.

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Celebrating our Mother Mazzarello’s Feast

What is more fun and interesting and effective way in reaching your audience than a short play? Sr. Gloria Agagon, for the Feast of Mother Mazarello has introduced to the girls her life in Mornesse, her values, her faith, her vocation.  Hence, finding connection from her life story to theirs, the girls were encouraged to make a short play portraying her (Mother Mazarello) life. The girls never say never! They actively participated during the practice and are always having fun!

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Trembling with cold hands and nervous voices, the LVF girls were put in the limelight as they portray different characters in reliving the life of Mother Mazarello at Mornese.  On the Feast Day of Mother Mazarello, the Sisters and staff enjoyed the girls’ performance! In their own best way, they gave justice to their characters and expressed their love for Mother Mazarello. The play was an off- shot of SYM sessions done by Sr. Gloria with the girls, journeying through the life itinerary of Mother Mazzarello from Mornese to Nizza to the birth and expansion of the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians.

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LVF’s UNSTOPPABLE  AMIDST COVID 19

We are unstoppable. As for the academic advancement of the LVC girls, the UST-Angelicum Home Study Program continued, in fact, the girls had their EXAMS last May 15, 2020.  This only proved the strong determination of our Foundation to make our young people achieve their goals in life and make education their priority.

A UNIQUE FMA ANNIVERSARY for the V. LUNA HOSPITAL FRONTLINERS

May 24, 2020 – LVF celebrate with Sr. Marivic (31styear), Sr. Clara (29th Year) and Sr. Ana (24th year) of Religious Profession as Salesian Sisters! A unique kind of feasting was done by the community by preparing 200 pax of hotmeals with juices for our frontliners at the National Children’s Hospital and V. Luna Medical Center respectively. Through God’s grace, we continue to give love, joy and hope to our frontliners in this time of adversity.

Mary, personified through our LVC-FMA Sisters in Cubao who never cease to open not only their hands but their hearts most especially to those who needed care and love. Through them, the girls, and even the staff have found the warmth of a loving mother and spiritual guide.

LVF Palawan

Demonstration and Hands on Service …. Farm Enhancement During Quarantine.

In order to make our time useful during the period of quarantine and realizing the high demand for food, we decided to maximize our farm by preparing, planting, growing and re designing our place. Through the creativity, cooperation and unity of everyone, we were able to optimize and see the possibility of a developing and “blooming” beautiful farm garden.  

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ONLINE ADVOCACY – LAUDATO SI WEEK May 16-24

The internet has become an active platform for advocacy and education. It has also been a place of sharing valuable materials for a worthy cause. Last May 16-24, 2020, the Church has dedicated the week as “Laudato Si” Week. Laudato Si (Praise God) is an important document of Pope Francis that clearly states each person’s responsibility to care for our common home. On our hand, we posted the following slides in facebook our way of living Laudato Si through our way of living in the center.   

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ZOOM MEETING WITH TESDA

Last May 19, 2020, the Laura Vicuna Center Palawan joins TVET ONLINE FORUM for TVIs Palawan facilitated by TESDA Palawan. The topic discussed was the Policy Direction in the Operational Plan OPLAN TVET Abot Lahat Towards the New Normal. Three of our staff and myself joined the zoom meeting.

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SHARING ON OUR PANDEMIC QUARANTINE EXPERIENCE

Depression, anxiety and fear are possible effects of the pandemic crisis. It is important to keep oneself sane and in a good disposition. To allow ourselves to process all that is happening with the corona virus, we allotted time for group sharing of our personal pandemic quarantine experience. It was very helpful to express our feelings, anxieties and as well as lessons learned from this crisis.    

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PARANGAL SA AMING FARMERS – PISTA NI SAN ISIDRO

Heartfelt gratitude to our hardworking farmers Ronnie Palma, Matet Palma, Francis Gabua and farm consultant Melchor  “Tatay Chong” Gabua for the love, care and dedication they offer to ensure a healthy and enough food on our table. With the help of San Isidro, patron of farmers, may all farmers be blessed with strength and sufficient corresponding compensation in all their hardwork and tiredness in planting and in all farming activities.

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HEALING AND RECOVERY SESSIONS

The LVF Social Workers conducted group activities to the LVF girls as a venue for expression of suppressed feelings (anger, hurt, guilt, fear, hopelessness) and other emotions. Through short role play and group sharing, they are able to express their emotions and share their future plans. All of these activities are focused on their journey towards healing and recovery and at the same time empowering them.

ANGER: ‘TIP OF AN ICEBERG’

Psychology suggest that being able to name your feelings/emotions may be a sign of emotional maturity.  Using Dr. John Gottman’s ‘Anger Iceberg’, he reiterated that anger is rarely about being angry, but it’s more like an iceberg. The real question is: What is going on below the surface, concealed by the anger. Anger may just be a cover-up for feelings of sadness, embarrassment or shame. This anger presentation model gives clear picture of what is beneath anger. In addition, employing short role play as a medium to explicitly convey the message and to achieve the objectives of the session, the girls were able to identify the causes of anger and realized the importance of communication as an effective tool in dealing with anger and resolving conflict among themselves.  This session helps the girls to develop harmonious intra/interpersonal relationships in managing and handling their emotions positively. 

The session was then followed by burning or drowning the effigy of a person whom they have anger with, as one of the LVF’s technique in helping the child to move towards gradual healing and recovery. They were encouraged to draw the face of that person. The social worker guides the girls in the sessions’ duration. She asked “Ano ang gusto mong gawin diyan? Sunog o lulunurin mo?” And one of the girl answered, without hesitation: “Sunog!” The social worker then processed their feelings, emotions, reactions. Afterwards, some shared that the activity somehow helped them release something heavy off their chests.

MY BIOGRAPHY COLLAGE

As part of the girls’ self-awareness and building self-esteem session, Ms. Joy Hugo, LVF Social Worker conducted a “My Biography” activity. This activity allows the child to reflect on her perceptions about her own history until the present, enabling them to recall and express significant childhood memories and experiences in life. In the belief that emotions are more expressed through drawing, they were given paper and crayons to give forms and faces to their unexpressed selves.

After which, they were encouraged to share with the groups about their drawings. This way, they could freely express themselves without hesitation. The activity gives opportunity for the girls to verbalize their feelings, and point out values. 

ADOLESCENCE: IDENTITY vs. ROLE CONFUSION

Starting with the questions: Anu-ano ang mga pagbabago na naranasan, nararanasan mo sa iyong edad ngayon? Kalagayang: (a.)Pisikal; (b.)Emosyonal; (c.)Ispiritwal; (d.)Sosyal/Pakikitungo sa kapwa; (e.)Pag-iisip/Cognitive. The girls were able to identify the changes they had experienced and are still experiencing. From there, the discussion went deeper to understanding the transitions occurring in a person who is on the process of growth, so as to avoid confusion and doubt. Assuring them that what they are going through is normal, through guidance is essential. The session has focused on the Adolescent stage, employing the theory of Erik Erikson’s Stages of Development, since our participants are from 12 to 20 years old. It is important to conduct sessions on the person’s stages of development for this is the time where teenagers develop their identity and it is accompanied by crisis. This session was conducted by Ms. Rosea Monsay.

CANONICAL VISITATION OF SR. LUCY ROSE OZHUKAYIL TO LAURA VICUNA CENTER 

The Canonical Visitation is done by a member of the General Council from Rome designated by Mother General to do rounds of the different Provinces (FMA presences in the world and the communities under each Province) of the Institute.  The visitation to Laura Vicuna Center was virtual (online) due to the COVID-19 Pandemic
 
The LVC gates open with the joyful applause of Welcome as Sr. Lucy and Sr. Veronica’s Standees were ushered in, where Sr. Marivic, the Sisters, lay mission partners greeted them on the glass door Entrance of the Laura Vicuna center last April 03-05, 2020.  This Canonical Visit is indeed one of a kind, it is virtual!  Maria, Vogliamo Amarti!  We want to Love you, Mary!

The community prepared an original welcome by making a STANDY of both Sr. Lucy and Sr. Veronica; making them very much alive in our midst.  The younger Vicunians composed a short cheer-dance to welcome them followed by a community welcome dance entitled “It’s a Beautiful Day” then all proceeded to the Chapel, sung and prayed Maria Vogliamo Amarti.  Sr. Lucy and Sr. Veronica were very much delighted by the effort and love given to them.  The Vicunians with their ‘trying hard’ English toured them around the house from the ground floor to the sixth floor.  Making them feel at home, showing them every nook and corner of the house.  The First conference with the Sisters immediately followed. 

She then started the conference via a meditative song entitled “You are the Mother of Mine” then proceeded to give a short introduction on the 24th General   Theme – “Do whatever He tells you!”, this time presenting Jesus as the one telling us these very words.  The second day of the Canonical Visit started with the Tree-Trunk meditation animated by Sr. Lucy.  The silent meditation was followed by the sharing of each sister.

In the Afternoon, Sr. Lucy met the girls; this was the most awaited time for everybody.  All were excited and eager to see and listen to Sr. Lucy.  The atmosphere was so youthful, festive and happy, she started by telling them how blessed they are to be in Laura Vicuna Center, that they should use all their time and energy to learn and take advantage of all that is offered in the center for their human, psychological, spiritual growth.

After which, Sr. Lucy met with the LVF Staff.  Sr. Lucy thanked them for their valuable presence in the center and for being close collaborators of the Sisters in their mission in forming the young, especially the LVC girls to have ROOTS – to be strong and principled individuals and to have WINGS – to reach their dreams, to become good Christians and honest citizens.

Excitement could be seen in the faces of the girls and all were busy preparing for our THANK YOU Program for Sr. Lucy and Sr. Veronica. Held at the 3rd floor AVR, again we welcomed them both with much warmth.  We began with a simple prayer of thanks symbolized by a lighted candle. Sr Lucy -Thank you for being this light among us, thank you for sharing Jesus’ light with us; letting it shine within you and through you!  We are grateful to the Lord for your words of wisdom, gratitude, concern and love for each one of us.  May the Good Lord bless and keep you all the days of your life!”  The prayer was immediately followed by the thank you program lovingly prepared by the sisters and the girls.

The ‘Our Life So Far… LVF ECQ Experience’ via a video presentation followed by the Disney songs sung by the girls which speaks of the different sentiments of women and the inner strength they have.  As a conclusion they sung A Million Dreams from the movie This Is Me, a song always sung by the girls that gently invites hearers to ‘join them as they dream for their future’ and knowing the circumstances where these girls came from will surely touch hearts and move them to action.’

We are living in the time of the COVID-19 Pandemic and an Enhance Community Quarantine, but nothing can stop us, our passion to hear and encounter God’s voice through Sr. Lucy!