MARCH OF COURAGE: THE LEGACY AND STRENGTH OF WOMEN ACROSS GENERATIONS
March is a month brimming with significant observances, notably Women’s Month, Social Work Month, and Girl-Child Week —each one celebrating the resilience, dignity, and contributions of women and girls. This month, we honor the trailblazing women of generations past who courageously fought for rights like suffrage and equal opportunity, paving the way for stronger protections against abuse and exploitation for women and children today. Their legacy continues to inspire and empower the women of today and tomorrow.
The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. (LVF) is privileged to be led by empowered women at the helm who follow the example of Mary and Mother Mazzarello, under the spiritual guidance of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians. In the spirit of shared responsibility, LVF launched the #iamBRAVE campaign in North Cotabato, Mindanao, calling upon everyone, especially peers, to become active partners in promoting respect, dignity, and protection for women and girls who are often victims of violence, exploitation, and objectification. Together, we continue to build a respectful, just, and strong society.
LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN
LVF RECEIVED THE MAYOR’S AWARD!
LVF MACARASCAS,ADVANCING IN AGRICULTURE AS AN LSA!
BEYOND THE SCREEN: MOVIE WATCHING & LESSONS LEARNED
GRATITUDE DAY: A SALESIAN TRADITION
SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL VISIT
SAVINGS SIMULATION SEMINAR
LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
DSWD SPOT MONITORING’
LVF LAUNCHES ‘DIWA ’- AN LVF CAMPAIGN TO END ABUSE, VIOLENCE, & EXPLOITATION!
LVF GRATITUDE DAY CELEBRATION!
WORLD SOCIAL WORK MONTH!
NORTH COTABATO WSWD CELEBRATION
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2025
LVF COMMUNITIES’ HOLY WEEK PREPARATION
ASH WEDNESDAY
STATIONS OF THE CROSS: COMMEMORATING JESUS’S DEATH AND RESURRECTION
LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL
ISO STAGE 1 AUDIT
SCHOOL PROMOTION AT BARANGAY ESTADO NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
PROVINCIAL VISIT: ENCOUNTER WITH SISTERS, STAFF & SUPPORT PERSONNEL, PARENTS
GRADE 12 YOUTH ENCOUNTER
LVF CUBAO, QC WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
SUNDAY CATECHESIS
SOLIDARITYSERYE
PASWI-COP
LVF #iamBRAVE IN MINDANAO: A HISTORIC FIRST
March 20-21. On the occasion of World Social Welfare Month and the Week of the Child promoted by the Philippine Council for Children’s Welfare (March 23-29) with the theme, “There is no room for violence in society: Fight against the abuse and exploitation of girls, online and offline” – the Foundation Laura Vicuña of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, of the Province St. Mary Mazzarello (FIL), launched the #iamBRAVE Movement in Mindanao, south Philippines.
With the mission of protecting children and young people – carried out with determination by Sister Maria Victoria Santa Ana, Sister Sheila Ducot, two social workers: Joy and Rosea and volunteer, Carolyn/Monz; – the Foundation has made the courageous decision to launch this Movement in a region with a long history of armed conflict, to bring hope to young people and communities that are too often forgotten.
The Movement #iamBRAVE – Friends Reject Abuse, Violence, and Exploitation – is not political and is not limited to any group or sector. It is a humanitarian mission, an appeal at the national level to protect everyone, regardless of age, gender, or origin.
The decision to bring #iamBRAVE to Mindanao was inspired by the success of the first launch in Victorias City, in Negros Occidental, where on 15 November 2024, some 2,000 young people gathered to affirm that the safety of children is not a privilege but a human right.
The overwhelming response of young people in Negros has strengthened the commitment to bring this initiative to Mindanao by the National President of the Philippine Social Workers’ Association (PASWI), Sister Maria Victoria Santa Ana, and National PASWI Vice President, John Karl Ballentes, where many children and young people are exposed to abuse, violence, and exploitation. Mayor Rolly Sacdalan graced the event with his presence, manifesting his support for the #iamBRAVE Launch in his city.
On 20 and 21 March 2025, more than 1,400 senior high school and freshman students from Carmen National High School and Southern Christian College gathered not only to listen but also to write their manifesto: a collective commitment to protect themselves, their peers, and their communities from danger.
In the national celebrations of Girl-Child Week, Women’s Month, and Social Work Month, the initiative of the #iamBRAVE Movement takes on an even deeper meaning. It is a tribute to every advocate who fights for justice, every social worker in selfless service, every survivor who regains their voice, and every child who deserves a future free from suffering.
LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN
LVF RECEIVED THE MAYOR’S AWARD!
March 03. The Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc., Macarascas, Palawan received the Mayor’s Award, the only religious Non-Government Organization to receive this prestigious acknowledgement from the Puerto Princesa, Palawan LGU, rendered during the 153rd Founding Anniversary!
This is yet another significant milestone for LVF Palawan, proving that it is making a positive impact and contributing to the development of the society it is present in through collaboration with stakeholders, parents, and other community members. Sr. Rosalia A. Panganiban, FMA, and Sr. Carmela Barbosa, FMA The celebration was held at Edward S. Hagedorn Coliseum in Barangay San Pedro.
LVF MACARASCAS－ADVANCING IN AGRICULTURE AS AN LSA
March 24. The LVF Macarascas, Palawan, is an accredited Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA). This year, the Regional Technical Working Group (RTWG) of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI)—RTC MIMAROPA conducted a field validation and ocular inspection to renew the LSA application. The RTWG was led by Mr. Jayson N. Erondo, Senior Agriculturist/PAS Chief.
On its website, the Department of Agriculture (DA) states that the LSA is a farm practicing applicable agricultural technology, employing doable farming strategies, and operating successfully, thus being worthy of emulation. The LSA will serve as a model or an example to showcase applicable agriculture technologies and agri-products/by-products processing technologies. In this way, they are seen to help improve the capabilities of small farmers and other rural community members. At present, there are more than 300 LSAs all over the Philippines.
BEYOND THE SCREEN: MOVIE WATCHING & LESSONS LEARNED
March 09. The learners/students of the community watched a movie entitled “YES DAY”. The movie portrays the importance of parenting and family relationships. The movie teaches that while rules and structures are necessary, allowing children freedom, fun, and shared decision-making can strengthen family bonds. It encourages parents to listen to their kids, be open to new experiences, and find ways to connect through joy and mutual understanding.
After the movie, they had a minute to think about the lesson they had learned and share it with their fellow students. After sharing, they wrote their insights and moral lessons on a piece of bond paper. Watching movies does not only end after its post credits, but it should leave a long-lasting impact of learning and change among its audience.
GRATITUDE DAY: A SALESIAN TRADITION
March 10-18. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. Macarascas, Palawan celebrated the Gratitude day with the theme: “Pusong mapagpasalamat, Diwa ng Pag-Asa” (A Grateful Heart, A Spirit of Hope). We dedicated the entire day to our community animator, Sr. Rose Panganiban, FMA, to express our gratitude for her unwavering commitment and compassion in guiding and uplifting the community and for being the light and hope of the community. One of the program’s numerous highlights is the students’ and staff’s dramatic presentation entitled “Ang Pagsibol ng Binhi nang Pag-Asa” (The Seed of Hope Grows).
As part of the gratitude day celebration, the community offered a Novena of prayers for the intentions of Day 1 for Trainees, Day 2 for Volunteers, Day 3 for Priests, Day 4 for past pupils, Day 5 for Parents, Day 6 for benefactors, Day 7 for Learners, Day 8 for Staff, and on the 9th day, for the FMA Sisters and a prayer for those who are part of the community and the people it serves.
SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL VISIT
March 14. The Soroptimist International, a global volunteer organization that empowers women, visited the LVF Macarascas community. The Soroptimist Organization seeks to empower women economically, and in keeping with this goal, they sought to protect Mother Earth by practicing environmental stewardship. The Soroptimist talked about being morally upright, being able to carry out sustainable practices, and working together, which are all beneficial aspects of caring for the environment. As part of their “Trees for Tomorrow” campaign, they planted fruit-bearing trees together with the Salesian sisters, students, and staff. The organization and the community have a great time planting and caring for the environment.
SAVINGS SIMULATION SEMINAR
March 06. The Savings Simulation Seminar of German Sparkassenstiftung was conducted at the center, Laura Vicuna Foundation Inc., Ma’am Carla Virtudazo, and Sir Percival Yaya administered and carried it out. Participants include staff members, parents, and students. The trainers prepared games with explained mechanics that enable each group to select a goal while also improving their quality of life. This demonstrates how each group can make sensible choices to reach their objective. Through the simulation, the participants will learn how to properly save and secure money and use it in a practical way. It is especially beneficial for parents who budget for their daily needs and students who have just started saving money on their own.
LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
DSWD SPOT MONITORING
March 27. Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc., Cubao, Quezon City, underwent spot monitoring by Mr. Ryan, DSWD SWDA Representative, conducted by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The assessment showed that the Foundation is compliant with the DSWD Standards, with minimal recommendations from the assessor.
LVF LAUNCHES ‘DIWA’－AN LVF CAMPAIGN TO END ABUSE, VIOLENCE, & EXPLOITATION
March 24. The short film “DIWA,” the advocacy campaign of the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. of the Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco, powerfully portrays the complex challenges our young people face today, particularly the dangers of offline and online sexual abuse and exploitation of children and youth.
We invite you to join us, take a stand, and be part of the LVF movement: BUDDIES REJECT ABUSE, VIOLENCE, & EXPLOITATION—or #iamBRAVE!
As God’s children, we are all born with inherent worth, dignity, and equal rights. At its core, bravery affirms a fundamental truth: safety is not a privilege—it is a human right!
This is our CALL TO ACTION! It is our shared responsibility to combat abuse, violence, trafficking, and exploitation. Together, let us build a respectful, safe, compassionate, and strong society! #iamBRAVE!
(March 24-29, 2025. On the occasion of the start of the Girl-Child Week with the theme “Walang Puwang sa Lipunan ang Karahasan: Labanan ang Pang-aabuso at Eksploytasyon sa Batang Babae, Online at Offline.”)
LVF GRATITUDE DAY CELEBRATION
March 30. The Philippine Provincial Educating Community celebrated its annual Gratitude Day 2025 with the theme: “Gratefully, we celebrate with renewed hope,” held at Mary Help of Christians School, Canlubang, Laguna.
The celebration of the gratitude day tradition can be traced back to Don Bosco’s name day in Valdocco, Turin, Italy. He wanted the young people to express thanks to him with songs, music, and a lot of joy. The first feast of gratitude was in 1849 and spontaneously began with two boys who offered him two “silver hearts” (cf. Biographical Memoirs III 354).
In the bloodline of the Salesian family, it is a tradition to thank each other for being part of each other’s lives. It is not just for the provincial superior, Sr. Tita, but this is to celebrate all the people who loved and served in the fulfillment of God’s plans for His beloved children, the young people.
The celebration started with commemorating the Holy Eucharist, which was presided over by Fr. Juvelan, SDB. After which, each community presented their well-prepared, beautiful, vibrant dance presentations and gifts as a gesture of thanks and appreciation towards Sr. Tita. Marj, LVF, 15-year-old girl, “thanked Sr. Tita, FMA, our provincial superior, for all that she had done to the FIL-FMA Province.”
The afternoon activity was filled with exciting and youthful energy as each group enthusiastically engaged in various games: Saint Games inspired by the Squid Game series, basketball, Volleyball, Kickball, and Badminton.
WORLD SOCIAL WORK MONTH CELEBRATIONS
Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA, RSW, MSSW, National President of the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI), was invited by the PASWI San Juan City Chapter, as well as the National Capital Region Cluster, and later by PASWI Antipolo, as guest speaker of their celebrations of the WSWD with a local theme: “Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity for Enduring Well-being”. This is through the invitation of the PASWI San Juan Chapter, headed by Ms. Portia Esquillo, RSW, City Social Welfare and Development Department Head. The WDSD celebrations were held last March 19 at the Atrium of San Juan City Hall, March 22 at CEU, Manila, and March 29 at PASWI Antipolo.
Social Work is a profession that is concerned with a person’s adjustment in their environment, a person in relation to their social situation.
It seeks to enhance the social functioning of individuals, singly and in groups, by activities focused upon their social relationships, which constitute the interaction between man and his environment.
This year, we celebrate World Social Work Day with the theme “Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity for Enduring Wellbeing”. Social Workers, on the other hand, work directly with, and on behalf of, a wide variety of populations; they create change in many ways — from high, system-level change (macro practice) to the individual level (micro practice). Social workers make an impact at all levels of practice. Social workers have made an invaluable contribution in various fields, including hospitals, schools, government agencies, and non-profit organizations around the globe. They are at the forefront of addressing societal challenges, including poverty, mental health, child welfare, substance abuse, and elder care.
At LVF, we are proud of our dedicated, compassionate social workers: Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA; Ms. Josielyn Hugo; Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo; Ms. Rosea Marie Monsay; and all the former social workers who have helped shape the institutionalization of the Foundation.
NORTH COTABATO WSWD CELEBRATION
March 22. In celebration of the World Social Work Day (WSWD), Mr. Karl Ballentes organized the World Social Work Day Celebration 2025 at Carmen, Cotabato, with 200-plus social workers participating from North Cotabato, with keynote speaker Honorable Gov. Lala Taliño Mendoza.
Mr. Karl Ballentes told the social workers his gratitude that the Philippine Association of Social Workers Inc. (PASWI) national president, Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA, has graced this joyful celebration of World Social Work Day 2025!
Sr. Marivic conveyed her appreciation to all social workers, as the organization’s national president, expressing that “…at PASWI, we consider this a day of thanksgiving for all that was, is, and will be! Thank you to each one of you, thanks for all that you do, your love and sacrifices to uplift those at the fringes of your localities to live meaningful and dignified lives.” Furthermore, she added that the celebration is a way of “…paying tribute to all [of us] social workers who have worked across generations, creating meaningful, safe, and productive spaces for young and old to share the same table, empowering each other in the process of communal growth toward a shared future.”
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2025
March 09. In celebration of International Women’s Day, LVF Social Workers Ms. Josielyn Hugo and Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo conducted an advocacy session on Gender Equality and the Magna Carta for Women in Marikina and Taguig. We celebrate the significant contributions of all women to shaping the family, society, the country, and the world.
LVF COMMUNITIES’ HOLY WEEK PREPARATION
ASH WEDNESDAY
March 05. “Gracious God, today begins a period of inner reflection and examination. The days before me invite me inward to that silent, holy space that holds your Spirit. This special time beckons me to see my life through Christ’s eyes and the truth and reality of your love incarnate. Give me the grace to enter the space of these days with anticipation of our meeting. And, when I open my soul to your presence, let your loving kindness flow over me and seep into the pockets of my heart. I ask this for the sake of your love.
STATIONS OF THE CROSS: COMMEMORATING JESUS’S DEATH AND RESURRECTION
March 07. On this day, the community, Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc., commemorated Jesus Christ’s death throughout the Lenten season this month. Within the center, the community conducted stations of the cross, which were led by the Salesian sisters together with the learners and personnel. This exercise honors the sacrifices made by Jesus in repentance for humanity’s sins.
LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL
ISO STAGE 1 AUDIT
March 03. The ISO Stage 1 Audit took place on March 3, 2025 (Monday) at the school AVR, with Ms. Jogina Mendiola from TUV Rheinland serving as the auditor. The FMA Sisters, faculty, and staff participated as auditees. This initial assessment focused on evaluating the school’s compliance with international quality standards, reviewing documentation, processes, and overall readiness for the next certification phase. As a result, the school is now set to proceed to Stage 2 of the certification process.
SCHOOL PROMOTION AT BARANGAY ESTADO NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
March 11. The School Promotion event, led by Ms. Aika F. Tacud, Ms. Ma.. Victoria V. Seluce and Mr. Rino N. Barrido occurred at Barangay Estado National High School. They engaged with the 60 graduating Senior High School students, explaining the skills they would acquire in the technical school and the values upheld by the Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. This initiative aimed to guide students in exploring future educational and career opportunities.
PROVINCIAL VISIT: ENCOUNTER WITH SISTERS, STAFF & SUPPORT PERSONNEL, PARENTS
March 18-20. The arrival of Sr. Teresita C. Padron, FMA, Provincial Superior, and the Students Encounter with the Provincial Superior took place at the School Multi-purpose Hall and field. Upon her arrival, Sr. Teresita was warmly welcomed by a colorful dance performance by the students, which was specially prepared for the occasion. During the event, Sr. Teresita had an inspiring talk with the students, encouraging them to finish their studies and assuring them that there is no shame in attending technical schools. She emphasized that many successful individuals have graduated from these institutions, highlighting the valuable opportunities they provide.
The Faculty, Staff, and Support Personnel Encounter with Sr. Teresita C. Padron, FMA, Provincial Superior, took place at the school AVR. Sr. Teresita C. Padron, FMA, along with Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, engaged with the faculty, staff, and support personnel during this significant event. In a gesture of appreciation, Sr. Teresita gave tokens to the employees. In response to her thoughtfulness, the employees also presented a token of appreciation to Sr. Teresita, expressing their gratitude for her leadership and support. The encounter allowed the school’s team to connect with the Provincial Superior, strengthening their bond and understanding of the institution’s values and mission.
The Parent Oratorian Encounter with Sr. Teresita C. Padron, FMA, Provincial Superior, took place at the school AVR. Sr. Teresita C. Padron, FMA, and Sr. Josefina D.C. Oliveros engaged with the Parent Oratorian community. This event provided an opportunity for parents to connect with the Provincial Superior, deepening their understanding of the values and mission upheld by the institution and strengthening their involvement in the school community.
GRADE 12 YOUTH ENCOUNTER
March 24-26. The Grade 12 Youth Encounter took place at the AVR, facilitated by the faculty, staff, and support personnel. The Grade 12 students engaged in meaningful discussions, spiritual growth, and reflection during the event. A key part of the experience was the opportunity for the students to participate in confession, allowing them to reflect on their faith and personal lives. After the encounter, many students shared their realizations, particularly how they learned to value their lives and found a deeper connection with God. Spending several days without their cellphones helped them gain valuable insights into their faith, personal growth, and the importance of living a purposeful life as they prepare for the next phase of their journey.
LVF CUBAO, QC WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
SUNDAY CATECHESIS
Sundays at LVF are filled with joy, fun games, and learning, followed by a meaningful moment of prayer. Sr. Sarah Grace Robas, FMA, facilitates the Sunday Catechesis held at LVF Cubao ground floor, joined by about fifty (50) children and young people, assisted by the community parent-leaders from the Child Protection Clinic Communities in Hillcrest and Brgy. Pinagkaisahan. Sr. Sarah introduced the 2025 Jubilee Year to the participants. The Jubilee Year, with this year’s theme ‘Pilgrims of Hope,’ is a special year of grace in which the Church faithfully offers the possibility of obtaining a plenary indulgence. This significant event is celebrated by the Church every 25 years.
SOLIDARITYSERYE
LVF’s efforts to stay connected with our brothers and sisters are rooted in the conviction that all human beings are intrinsically linked because they are created in God’s image and likeness. This is not merely a moral recommendation but a demand that arises from faith and the commandment to love our neighbor. It. This has become a way of life, a lifestyle in the LVF communities. The Foundation is thankful for its consistent donors and benefactors, RFM Corporation, Breadtalk, and Purple Oven, who share their resources through in-kind donations. We pray that the good Lord will hear their prayers and bless their loved ones and company endeavors.
PASWI-COP
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
The Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI) midweek Circle of Prayer (COP) is an opportunity for all social workers nationwide to pause, take a rest, to lay down their yoke and heavy burdens from the days that have passed.
Social workers are often weary and burdened by the hustle and bustle of a busy life. They are faced with different clientele and varied problems to attend to. All these urgent, stacked cases eventually weigh down some. The COP is the perfect time to rest one’s weary soul. It is also the time to ask for grace, wisdom, and strength for the days to come.
This Wednesday prayer habit is co-hosted by different PASWI local chapters and facilitated by Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA, and Ma’am Eva Ponce de Leon, PASWI Executive Director.
Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. 