‘JUVENIS’ JUNE
‘Juvenis’ young June is a midpoint reflection of Laura Vicuna Foundation’s mission for the young. It mirrors flourishing mission even if the year is half gone.It brings beauty in all forms, from flowers to sunlight. Some interpretation of the origins of “June” says that the name came from the Latin juvenis, which means “young people.” Indeed, at LVF, Bata ang Bida! (The Child is the Star!). Our TVET Centers’ unwavering commitment to providing high-quality education enables us to place and deploy poor trainees to LVF TVET’s various prestigious partner companies, provide career prospects for our young people, and potentially improve their family situations. Additionally, we are proud of the UST Angelicum pupils for their YS 11 Completion and laud our LVF Palawan Alternative Learning System (ALS) graduates!
This month, we celebrate the Philippine 126th Independence Day (June 12) with the theme “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan,” (Freedom. Future. History.)
In collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the National Council on Children’s Television (NCCT), the LVF Community actively participates in several environmental initiatives to slow global warming.
We continue to reach schools and communities with our LVF #FollowYourDream sessions. We commend Jeril for her active participation and well-representation of LVF during the 8th Philippine National Children’s Conference. The girls continue to make crocheted bags, headbands, keychains, bonnets, toys, and more!
This month is a vibrant interweaving thread of nature’s bounty, human achievement, and the simple joy of being alive and free.
LVF MALIHAO, NEG. OCC.
SCHOOL PROMOTION
EXPLORING RESEARCH IN TVET: DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT”
ENHANCING QUALITY OF TVET GRADUATES THROUGH USER-CENTERED PROBLEM-SOLVING METHOD
(DESIGN THINKING)
SEAL OF GOOD LOCAL GOVERNANCE EVALUATION
ENVIRONMENT WEEK 2024 CELEBRATION SYMPOSIUM “GREENING OUR SCHOOLS: STRATEGIES FOR SUSTAINABLE CAMPUS TRANSFORMATION” AND DEPLOYMENT IN CEBU
LVF-TVET DEPLOYMENT TO COMPANIES!
LVF MACARASCAS-PALAWAN
REAP COMPLETION
LVF PALAWAN RECEIVES FFS TESDA SCHOLARSHIP!
STAFF TRAINGS AND SEMINAR
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR ALS COMPLETER AND MS. CAÑO!
THAI BS SOCIAL WORK STUDENT AT LVF PALAWAN!
LVF MACARASCAS WELCOMES A NEW BATCH OF TRAINEES!
GRADUATING CLASS PROJECT!
LVF CUBAO, QC
LVF #FOLLOWYOURDREAMS!
UST ANGELICUM YS 11 COMPLETION CEREMONY!
LVF JOINS THE 8TH PHILIPPINE NATIONAL CHILDREN’S CONFERENCE
LVF JOINS THE NATION IN CELEBRATING PHILIPPINE SOCIAL WORK DAY!
LVF JOINS TVET FORUM
A CELEBRATION OF LOVE: THE FEAST OF THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS
TREE-PLANTING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH NCCT & DENR
THE HEALING POWER OF ART: A BALM FOR THE SOUL
LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
LVF ONSITE CATECHESIS
LVF SOLIDARITYSERYE
PASWI-COP
LVF-TVET DEPLOYMENT TO COMPANIES
June 20-21. Training centers are a cornerstone of a skilled and competitive Filipino workforce. A nation with a growing young workforce faces the challenge of equipping its people with the skills needed to thrive in the ever-evolving global job market. This is where the Laura Vicuña Foundation’s Training Centers step in, contributing to the country’s economic development and individual empowerment. By providing targeted skills development programs, they equip individuals with the technical knowledge and practical abilities necessary to excel in their chosen fields.
LVF Malihao Technical-Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Trainees were deployed to partner companies: five (5) trainees, two Business Office Technology (BOT), and three Garments Technology (GT) were deployed at Ysabelle’s Bridal Shop, Bacolod City.
In addition, four (4) BOT and seventeen (17) Hotel and Restaurant Servicing (HRS) had a virtual interview before their deployment at the Dough-pro Company, Metro Pizza, and Lots A Pizza.
While LVF TVET Centers benefit individuals, they also contribute to the country’s overall economic growth. Indeed, through partnerships, they provide opportunities for our young people to have equitable access to quality education.
LVF MALIHAO, NEG. OCC.
SCHOOL PROMOTION
June 03, 05, & 08. Some of the faculty and staff left the school for three days. They had the school promotion in the different barangays in Victorias City, Silay City, and Municipality of EB Magalona. This is one of the strategies implemented by the school to increase the number of students in the school year 2024-2025.
EXPLORING RESEARCH IN TVET: DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
June 20-22. Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA and Sir Rino N. Barrido participated in the Customized Program on “Exploring Research in TVET: Design and Development” at CPSC, Manila, Philippines. The Colombo Plan Staff College and Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco organized the training.
ENHANCING QUALITY OF TVET GRADUATES THROUGH USER-CENTERED (PROBLEM-SOLVING METHOD (DESIGN THINKING)
June 17-19. Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, and Sir Rino N. Barrido attended the Customized Program on “Enhancing Quality of TVET Graduates through User-Centered Problem-Solving Method (Design Thinking)” at Colombo Plan Staff College (CPSC), Manila, Philippines organized by the Colombo Plan Staff College and Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco. The training was conducted by Dr. Prasanna Kesavan, Master Trainer for Design Thinking and conceive-Design-Innovative-Operate (CDIO), and his team. The purpose of the training was to lead the participants to understand a teaching approach that initiates 21st-century skills-building.
SEAL OF GOOD LOCAL GOVERNANCE EVALUATION
June 11. Under the scholarship program of Victorias City, Ma’am Christina Gaston, Sir Jef Raymund Daiz, Ma’am Portia Mallorca, PhD, Schools Division Superintendent of Victorias City, and the Victorias City Officials conducted the Seal of Good Local Governance Evaluation at the school.
ENVIRONMENT WEEK 2024 CELEBRATION SYMPOSIUM “GREENING OUR SCHOOLS: STRATEGIES FOR SUSTAINABLE CAMPUS TRANSFORMATION” AND DEPLOYMENT IN CEBU
June 04. Sir Rino N. Barrido and Ms. Ma. Victoria V. Seluce attended the Environment Week 2024 Celebration Symposium with the theme “Greening Our Schools: Strategies for Sustainable Campus Transformation” at the Victorias City Library. Ms. Lara Ann A. Garcia, Administrative Officer IV, stated the purpose of the symposium and thanked the presence of the guests and participants. During the symposium, the speakers: Mr. Christian Joel M. Andeo, Agriculturist I, and Mr. Ramon D. Peñalosa Jr., Agripreneur, shared their advocacy and knowledge with the guests and participants. On the same day, Ms. Ma. Socorro C. Bayles, Ms. Ailene M. Ondon, and Sir Darrenz M. Caberoy deployed the 4 TVET trainees (first batch), namely Jully Ann Dawatan, Arriane Eleuterio, Ma. Loisa Diaz and Mariel Oñate at Mary Help of Christian School in Cebu.
LVF MACARASCAS-PALAWAN
REAP COMPLETION
June 28 – 30. The Re-entry Education Agenda for the Poor (REAP) department traveled to Palawan, where Fr. Geronimo conducted home visitations and engaged in dialogues with some of the families of our REAP learners during the home visitations. A thanksgiving mass for the graduates was held at the local parish, presided over by Fr. Geronimo. On the last day of June, the Laura Vicuña Foundation – Palawan conducted their completion rites, celebrating alongside the graduates’ families. It was a momentous day, marking a significant milestone for the graduates and the REAP program.
Ten (10) learners completed their Junior High School through UST Angelicum ‘s REAP program on June 20, 2024. One of them, a SYG leader, delivered a beautiful message to the REAP’s Director, Fr. Gerome, FMAs, parents and staff, and benefactors. She said, “I stand here today filled with immense gratitude and joy as I reflect on this incredible journey that has led us to this moment. First and foremost, I want to express my deepest thanks to the FMA Sisters headed by our Mother Provincial Sr. Teresita Padron, represented by our dear Superior Sr. Rosalia Panganiban, Fr. Jerone Geronimo OP, Head of the Extension Services and REAP, Sir Christian Dorado, UST Angelicum social worker, our school principal Mrs. Gopez and to all UST Angelicum Teachers, our staff, former volunteers and benefactors. Your dedication to our education and steadfast support have been crucial to our success. You have imparted knowledge to us and instilled in us the values of perseverance and determination that will guide us in the years ahead. Congratulations to all my fellow graduates! We have shared countless memories and faced challenges and triumphs. We also want to thank our families: Mama, Papa, Nanay, Tatay, and loved ones. Your unconditional love, encouragement, and sacrifices have been the cornerstone of our achievements.
As we embark on the next chapter of our lives, we will carry forward the lessons we have learned here. We will continue to embrace the opportunities and challenges ahead with courage and determination.”
LVF PALAWAN RECEIVES FFS TESDA SCHOLARSHIP
The Laura Vicuña Foundation, INC received a TESDA Scholarship for FFS – Farm Field School (Training Programs developed by the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), which is focused on the production of High-Quality Inbreed Rice and seed Certification and Farm Mechanization. There are two batches, each with twenty-five (25) trainees. In the first batch, there are seven (7) male trainees and eighteen (18) females. The second batch has six (6) male and nineteen (19) female trainees. The training will conclude in September.
STAFF TRAININGS AND SEMINAR
The Laura Vicuña Foundation, INC staff commits to continuous training and seminars to acquire knowledge and skills to increase employee engagement, job satisfaction, and boost employee performance and a sense of belonging to the Institution. Last May, Mr. Werhner Cervantes and Mr. Ronnie Palma got the TESDA Scholarship on ANIMAL PRODUCTION (SWINE) NCII. Mr. Adelmar Macolor, our farm worker, completes his Junior High School in ALS (alternative learning system) on June 3, 2024. Ms. Matet Pama and Sr. Rosalia Panganiban attended a seminar on Enhancing the Quality of TVET Graduates through User-Centered Problem-Solving Methods (Design Thinking) and Exploring Research in TVET; Design and Development last June 17- 22, 2024.
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR ALS COMPLETER AND MS. CAÑO
June 03. Mr. Azer Obuyes, our farm helper, graduated from Alternative Learning System (ALS) on June 3, 2024, along with Mr. Adelmar Macolor, a farm worker. Now, Azer is currently in Mindoro studying TVET for one year. Ms. Caño, Ma. Carisma Joy graduated from UST Angelicum Home Study (REAP) in 2018. In June 2024, she graduated Cum Laude Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship from Western Philippines University.
THAI BS SOCIAL WORK STUDENT AT LVF PALAWAN
June. Mam Eva de Leon, executive director of the Philippine Association of Social Workers Incorporated (PASWI) came together with nine (9) Thai social workers as part of their exposure. It was an exchange of social workers between the social workers of Thailand and Palawan as a benchmark on how to care for the elderly of Palawan in the future. They were here the whole morning, mingling with the learners and their parents. They had the chance to do the YES AHA (Youth Empowerment through Sustainable Agriculture, Health, and Advocacy) for young people in Nurturing Nature.
The following day, the community celebrated Ma’am Eva’s birthday! After lunch served by Laura, they left filled with joy and ideas for their chosen vocation. Before leaving the center, Sr. Rose received the gift, a wall clock given by the Thai social workers as a sign of their gratitude for their experience with our girls and some parents.
LVF MACARASCAS WELCOMES A NEW BATCH OF TRAINEES
June 10- 21. The On-the-Job Training (OJT) from the College of Agriculture at Palawan State University (PSU) started their fieldwork in the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. with two (2) batches of 3rd and 1ST years. In their OJT, they are required to learn the following: how to raise hogs and choose healthy, good-quality swine; how to produce organic fertilizers, which included tasks such as preparing compost sites and raw materials, carrying out composting methods, and harvesting compost.
GRADUATING CLASS PROJECT
This was a project of the graduating class with their parents, who personally supervised and put up one cemented shed near the cottage classrooms and another cemented shed for the water pumps near the big tank.
LVF CUBAO, QC
LVF #FOLLOWYOURDREAMS
June 5. Every child has a unique dream that reflects their passions, talents, and hopes for the future. As advocates, we are responsible for nurturing these dreams and providing the support they need to pursue them. Encouragement is crucial; children should be told that no dream is too big and no aspiration is out of reach. We can help children understand that their dreams are achievable and worth pursuing by fostering an environment that values creativity and ambition. At the Laura Vicuña Foundation, we believe in the power of dreams and are dedicated to guiding children towards realizing their full potential.
The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. gives sessions and activities in Brgy. Hall of Brgy. Pinagkaisahan, Cubao Quezon City, with about 50 children who attended the session, was designed to help children explore their interests and develop the skills to follow their dreams. Our four children advocate for Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. They connect children with role models who provide guidance, support, and inspiration, showing them that their dreams are attainable with hard work and perseverance. One of the social workers, Ms. Angie, shares her inspiring story with the children, recounting her journey from a challenging childhood to achieving her dream of helping others as a social worker. Her story is a powerful example of what resilience and determination can achieve.
Celebrating every achievement, no matter how small, can boost a child’s confidence and reinforce the value of hard work. Acknowledging their efforts and progress shows them that their dreams are valid and their hard work is recognized. As a community, we must create a supportive network that champions the dreams of our children, ensuring they have the tools and encouragement needed to turn their visions into reality—the Laura Vicuña Foundation, in partnership with the local government of Brgy. Pinagkaisahan is committed to providing this support, helping children achieve their personal goals, and contributing to a brighter, more innovative future for everyone.
UST ANGELICUM YS 11 COMPLETION CEREMONY
June 14. The Laura Vicuña Foundation center in Cubao witnessed a momentous event: the graduation of LVF two YS11 Junior High School scholars under the Re-entry Education Agenda for the Poor (REAP) of UST Angelicum College. This significant milestone is a celebration of academic achievement and a testament to the scholars’ dedication, resilience, and community support. The REAP program of UST Angelicum College, in partnership with the Laura Vicuña Foundation, aims to provide quality education and holistic development for children in need. It caters to poor children, youth, and even adults. Over the years, the program has been instrumental in fostering a nurturing environment where students can thrive academically and spiritually. The two graduates’ journey through YS11 Junior High School was marked by numerous challenges. Through hard work and determination, they have not only excelled in their studies but also developed essential life skills that will serve them well in the future. Their success reflects their unwavering commitment to their education and the relentless support of their social workers, moderators, and teachers.
LVF JOINS THE 8TH PHILIPPINE NATIONAL CHILDREN’S CONFERENCE
June 19-22. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. (LVF) joined the 8th Philippine National Children’s Conference the theme “Kasangga ang kaBATAan, Kwento mo’y Papakinggan at Aaksyunan” held at Ardenhills Suites, Quezon City chaired by the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), Unicef, and Consuelo Zobel Alger Foundation. LVF was represented by its two (2) child advocates, Jerill Nadora and Christian Malparta, coming from the residential care and community-based program (the LVF Child Protection Clinic), respectively, with Ms. Angie Mae Villaren, LVF Social Worker, as their adult support.
The conference is composed of child representatives, advocates, and youth leaders coming from different regions in the Philippines; religions and races gathered in a national discussion about children’s rights and child-related issues and develop or formulate possible solutions.
The child participants were given eight (8) sessions: 1) Kuwentong Karapatan: UNCRC and Meaningful Child Participation, 2) Kuwento ng Batang Pilipino: A Situation and Problem-Idetification Workshop, 3) Kuwento ng Batang Pilipino: The Situation of Filipino Children, 4) Isyung Pangkabataan- Child Protection, 5) Isyung Pangkabataan- Climate Change, 6) Mga Kuwentong Pagtutuunan: Prioritization Workshop, 7) Ang Pangarap Naming Kuwento- A Visioning Workshop, 8) The National Plan of Action for Children, and Recommendation-Setting Workshop.
Jerill, LVF Child Representative, was nominated among the child participants in the nomination for child representatives for the ASEAN Children’s Forum (ACF), though she did not win, she eloquently shared, during their campaign hour, her active involvement in LVF’s advocacy and empowerment sessions such as #FollowYourDream, #iamBRAVE (Buddied Reject Abuse, Violence, and Exploitation) which is an opportunity for her too to call for an action among her fellow young people, that they too, are capable of protecting and being agents of protection among their peers, and communities, to become an honest Christian and upright Filipino citizens.
The three-day event included a Cultural and Solidarity Night. It is a night where participants showcased the culture of their respective provinces, cities, and organizations to which they belong. “The children were delighted and enjoyed the event with their co-participants. It was great to see the scene where children from different religions and races are united. This event is a great opportunity for child participants since it is one of the events where they can voice their opinions and problems,” said Ms. Villaren.
According to LVF child representatives, they are happy. They learned a lot from the sessions, and they were happy to contribute by recommending preventive solutions to various issues concerning the children. The social worker asked them what their realizations are, and they said that, “Madami pa rin talaga problema sa society natin ngayon na hindi na so-solusyunan”, “Na realize ko na hindi ka talaga naiiba sa ibang tao kasi bilang bata meron tayo iba’t-ibang pinagdadaanan tapos parang iniisip natin kung pano siya ma solusyunan at kung sino yung mga tao na dapat tutulong”.
There are still many problems in our society today that remain unaddressed and unsolved… I realized that you are not really different from other people, especially children, because as children, we go through different things and then seem to think about how to solve them and who should help.
The 8th Philippine National Children’s Conference was a successful event. In conclusion, the children drafted a Manifesto on the issues and problems of Survival, Development, Participation, Protection, and Governance, and their recommendations on Tahanan, Edukasyon, Komunidad, Media/Cyberspace, at Gobyerno in front of stakeholders and followed by stakeholder’s response.
This year’s children’s conference is honestly a partnership with children on hearing their voices to provide solutions and interventions for them.
LVF JOINS THE NATION IN CELEBRATING THE PHILIPPINE SOCIAL WORK, DAY
June 19. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc joined the nation in celebrating the Filipino Social Workers Day in recognizing the “indispensable role” of social workers in nation-building (Proclamation No. 1176) with a theme, “Makabuluhang Pamumuhay ng mga Pilipinong Manggagawang Panlipunan na May Pagpapahalaga sa Tao, Pamayanan at Kalikasan”, translates to “Meaningful Lives for Filipino Social Workers with Value for People, Community, and the Environment.”
On June 19, 1965, the Republic Act (RA) No. 4373 or An Act to Regulate the Practice of Social Work and the Operation of Social Work Agencies in the Philippines and for Other Purposes” was enacted.
LVF is grateful for the gift of its social workers: Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA; Ms. Josielyn Hugo; Ms. Rosea Marie Monsay; Ms. Angie Mae Villaren; Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo; Ms. Ma. Patricia Soqueña. And to all Filipino Social Workers, thank you for your passion and commitment to your work.
LVF JOINS TVET FORUM
June 28. Sr. Sheila Marie Ducot, FMA-Directress, LVF Technical Vocational Educational Training (TVET), and Ms. Felina Narvaez-TVET Registrar and Teacher, joined the Quezon City TVET FORUM held in NBS College. Several topics were discussed in the forum, such as the TVI / IBT Compliance Audit requirements, Program Registration, TVET Typology, TESDA QC Industry Partners, and UPTRAS Pipelines of Activities. It was a well-attended forum where the different sectors met the new District Director, Atty. Angeline T. Chaves.
A CELEBRATION OF LOVE: THE FEAST OF THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS
June 07. The Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a day dedicated to reflecting on Christ’s boundless love for humanity. It is not merely a commemoration; it’s a vibrant expression of gratitude and a call to reciprocate that love. Devotion to the Sacred Heart arose from the visions of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, who received messages from Jesus emphasizing his profound love for humanity, often depicted as a flaming heart surrounded by thorns. The date of the Feast is significant as it falls on the Friday after Corpus Christi (the Body of Christ), highlighting the connection between Christ’s physical presence in the Eucharist and the boundless love symbolized by the Sacred Heart. At LVF, it was a day of prayer, reflection, and renewed devotion. The Sisters, girls, and staff offered a special rosary to the Sacred Heart and observed a moment of silence in front of the tabernacle.
TREE-PLANTING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH NCCT & DENR
June 21. The National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) partnered with the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc., to plant trees at the La Mesa Dam, Quezon City. This activity aimed to address the current climate change issues. It is crucial to involve children in various efforts and activities to protect the environment, for they will be the generation that suffers from global environmental issues if we do not act now. Planting trees is not just a beautification effort but a crucial act of environmental stewardship with far-reaching benefits. From combating climate change to fostering biodiversity and improving human health, tree planting is a simple yet powerful tool for a healthier planet. Trees provide vital habitat for countless species of animals. They offer food, shelter, and breeding grounds, ensuring a thriving biodiversity that is essential for a balanced environment. Furthermore, healthy forests play a crucial role in regulating water cycles and preventing floods.
THE HEALING POWER OF ART: A BALM FOR THE SOUL
Beyond art’s aesthetic appeal, it possesses a remarkable capacity to heal and mend. For those grappling with physical or emotional trauma, art provides a safe space for processing difficult experiences. The act of creation allows individuals to externalize their pain, anxieties, and fears. Putting pen to paper or brush to canvas allows them to confront these emotions in a controlled and cathartic manner. Art also fosters self-discovery and growth. The girls discovered they could make something beautiful from just a ball of thread, a bracelet out of beads as they made crocheted bucket hats, stuffed toys, clothes, headbands, bags, and more! They discover new facets of themselves, their capabilities, and their capacity for expression. This empowers them to reclaim control over their lives and navigate the challenges of recovery with newfound confidence.
LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
LVF ONSITE CATECHESIS
In a world of distractions, catechesis offers a vital foundation, fostering a deeper understanding and a more meaningful connection with people’s faith. The LVF weekly catechesis is facilitated by Sr. Sarah Grace Robas, FMA, Sr. Phebe Lacse, FMA, lay mission partners, LVF Social Workers Ms. Joy Hugo, and Ms. Angie Mae Villaren. Through this weekly catechesis, the participants gain a rich understanding of their faith’s core principles. This knowledge equips them to integrate their faith into their daily lives.
LVF SOLIDARITYSERYE
The LVF SolidaritySerye thrives on the “Bayanihan” principle — a Filipino tradition of communal cooperation and mutual assistance. By working with donors and stakeholders, we continue to reach communities that need our assistance. Our SolidaritySerye efforts extend their reach through various forms of action: advocacy, empowerment, spiritual formation, and supplemental feeding. Our Child Protection Community (CPC) kids were happy to receive toys, school supplies, and bread! Thank you, Breadtalk, Purple Oven, and RFM Corporation, for the bread, and Zoi’s Meatown for the bacon!
PASWI-COP
The Philippine Association of Social Workers Inc. (PASWI) holds the weekly Circle of Prayer (COP), a prayer habit for Social Workers all over the Philippines. This prayer habit became a form of communal connection and spiritual sustenance among social workers. The circle itself holds symbolic significance. It represents unity, equality, and the interconnectedness of all. The act of praying together offers a multitude of benefits. Knowing that one’s burdens are shared by a supportive group provides comfort and solace in times of difficulty. Sharing prayers can also amplify the power of individual prayers, creating a sense of collective faith and hope. The COP has become a source of strength and inspiration. Hearing others’ prayers broadens one’s perspective, fosters empathy, and encourages compassion. Witnessing the faith and resilience of others can ignite hope and motivate individuals to overcome challenges. Various PASWI Chapters co-hosted this prayer session led by Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA, and Dir. Eva Ponce de Leon.
Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. 