Tag / education

by mir321

November 2025 News

NOVEMBRANCE!

November is traditionally recognized across many cultures and faiths as a Month of Remembrance—a time for solemn reflection, honoring our departed loved ones, brothers and sisters. This month, the country celebrates the National Children’s Month in commemoration of the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child by the United Nations General Assembly on 20 November 1989 and the 18-Day Campaign to End VAW (Violence Against Women). 

November has been a month brimming with various activities, learning, and heartfelt community engagement across all our Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF) communities. As the year draws to a close, our commitment to holistic development and impactful service shines brighter than ever. This edition of our e-newsletter highlights the dedication of our students, the passion of our volunteers and partners, and the hard work of our staff. From vital educational initiatives and crucial safety training to memorable community events and empowering youth encounters, November truly captured the spirit of growth and camaraderie.

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
LVF PAST PUPILS’ HOMECOMING ON THE FEAST OF CHRIST THE KING
33rd NATIONAL CHILDREN’S MONTH CELEBRATION 
LVF JOINS THE CHILDREN’S CONSULTATION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE HARMONIZED NATIONAL FRAMEWORK
ON CHILD AND YOUTH PARTICIPATION
NCCT ENVIROMENTAL LEARNING SESSION

LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN
WPU EDUCATION DEPARTMENT LAUNCHES TUTORIAL SESSIONS AT LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC.
GROUP SESSION ON BULLYING HELD AT LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION, INC.
SOCIAL WORK INTERNS CONDUCTED A FINAL SHARING 
SOCIAL WORK INTERNS CONCLUDE THEIR THREE-MONTH SERVICE WITH HEARTFELT CULMINATING ACTIVITY 
FIRE SAFETY PREVENTION SEMINAR AND FIRE DRILL 
CLOSING PROGRAM OF BATCH 2 ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION TRAINEES 
START OF TRAINING FOR ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION (OAP) 3RD BATCH
GENEROUS VOLUNTEER BRINGS JOY TO CHILDREN AT LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION, INC.


LVFI VICTORIAS
COMPANY VISIT AND MONITORING OF THE “ON THE JOB TRAINING” TRAINEES
RELIEF OPERATION
PARENTS FORMATION AND DISTRIBUTION OF CARDS
YOUTH ENCOUNTER FOR TVET TRAINEES
BOSCO EDTECH SUMMIT 2025
SMMS “SUNSET STRIDE FUN RUN”
LVF CUBAO, QC WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
WEEKLY CATECHESIS
SOLIDARITYSERYE
PASWI-COP

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

NCM cum 18-DAY CAMPAIGN TO END VAW
LVF Social Workers Josielyn Hugo and Jessa Mae Nardo led an advocacy session on Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) for 300 students at Sta. Cruz Elementary School. This initiative was held in observance of National Children’s Month (NCM) and the 18-Day Campaign to End VAW (Violence Against Women). By teaching students how to navigate the digital world safely, the Laura Vicuña Foundation continues to strengthen its advocacy against online abuse. This initiative highlights LVF’s commitment to mitigate vulnerabilities of children and young people against OSAEC, strengthened digital security, and empowering a new generation of “Brave Buddies” dedicated to rejecting exploitation and violence.

LVF PAST PUPILS’ HOMECOMING ON THE FEAST OF CHRIST THE KING

November 23. On the Feast of Christ the King, LVF Past Pupils and Past Vicuñans gathered to celebrate its yearly Homecoming with the theme: “Tuloy ang Kwento sa Tahanang may Love and Hope” (The Story Continues at the Home where Love and Hope Is!). Once a year, this event reunites the Vicunians, offering them an opportunity to reminisce and connect by sharing their recent life changes, developments, and experiences. It is coming back to one’s roots-a Home and a family at LVF. Rev. Fr. Rey Paglinawan presided the Holy Mass, signaling the start of the program and activities. Sr. Marivic, FMA expressed her joy seeing the Vicunians returning home once more.

Ms. Felina Narvaez, LVF TVET Educator and Ms. Vea Villareña, Past Pupil and LVF Staff, prepared fun and lively games for everyone. Excitement filled the air every time a name is drawn during the raffle draw-lots! A photobooth, sponsored by batch 1998-1999, added color to the event as everyone take turns in showing their funny and humorous poses in front of camera.

MUSING OF PAST PUPILS ON THE HOMECOMING

The LVF girls prepared a sumptuous meal everyone enjoyed. Homecoming is indeed, coming home to where they were formed. 

“One of my happiest memories was the Homecoming of 2025. It was just a joy to see so many of us returning to our old home. It was a joy to see that some were successful and had jobs, and others were continuing their studies” Vicky, one of the LVF Past Pupil said. She added that “It was great to see that even-thoughothers live outside Metro Manila, they still made a way to attend the Homecoming, taking time to return to the home that gave us hope and love…” Desiree added that every homecoming is a different experience “for I met different people. It just felt so good to be home again-to a home that helped me.”

Though they no longer reside in the Foundation, Josephin said that she “carry with me everything the Laura Vicunian Foundation taught me: “Do the right thing at the right time” and “Run, Jump, Play, but Never Sin.” Wherever I go, I will always remain true to myself.”

Sr. Marivic, FMA expressed her gratitude for those who came saying that “…Your presence is a gift. Your stories warm our hearts. Please come home again on November 22, 2026! We’ll wait for you. The Sisters & the staff already miss you so. Say a prayer every time, everyday! Love you all! God bless!”

33rd NATIONAL CHILDREN’S MONTH CELEBRATION

Every November, the NCM commemorates the Philippine’s adoption of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and serves as a nationwide movement to promote the well-being of children, recognize their inherent value, protect their rights, and encourage their meaningful participation in society. This year marks the 33rd National Children’s Month, themed “OSAEC – CSAEM Wakasan: Kaligtasan at Karapatan ng Bata, Ipaglaban!” (End OSAEC-CSAEM: Push for Children’s Safety & Rights). This theme reflects our shared dedication to ending online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, envisioning a future where every Child can grow up safe, empowered, and free from harm. LVF girls led the kick-off ceremony by leading the invocation and the recitation of the Panatang Makabata.
 
During the culminating ceremony, LVF led the Panatang Makabata, set-up the art and craft booth (DIY souvenir cards) and performed the #iamBRAVE song and dance! CWC has awarded LVF with the Certificate of Appreciation for its continued support to the agency’s programs and activities.  

LVF JOINS THE CHILDREN’S CONSULTATION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE HARMONIZED NATIONAL FRAMEWORK ON CHILD AND YOUTH PARTICIPATION

November 15. LVF Child Advocate Amethyst Castro joined the Children’s Consultation for the Development of the Harmonized National Framework on Child and Youth Participation. The consultation enabled children and youth to share their ideas and solutions on how to strengthen participation—not just for themselves, but for all children and youth in the country. This initiative, organized by UNICEF, DepEd, NYC, and CWC, highlighted a shared commitment to nurturing inclusive, rights-based spaces where children are valued, heard, and empowered. The event was held at Tiara Oriental Hotel, Makati City.

NCCT ENVIROMENTAL LEARNING SESSION

November 24. The National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT) conducted an engaging and interactive Environmental Learning Session for the children of Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF) and CPC children of Hillcrest, highlighting the importance of caring for the environment amid the growing challenges of climate change. The key resource speaker for the activity was Ms. Vida Mar Maylem, a Lasallian Environmental Sustainability and Governance Specialist, who help children understand what climate change is, how it affects their lives, and what simple actions they can take to protect the planet. To deepen their learning, the children participated in interactive group activities where they shared what they learned and discussed the steps they can take to care for our planet.

LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN

WPU EDUCATION DEPARTMENT LAUNCHES TUTORIAL SESSIONS AT LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC.
November 06. The Western Philippines University (WPU), Education Department officially commenced its tutorial sessions today at Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. The program marks the beginning of a scheduled series of learning support activities, which will take place every Friday and Saturday. This initiative aims to enhance the academic development of participating learners through regular, structured tutorials facilitated by WPU education faculty.

GROUP SESSION ON BULLYING HELD AT LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION, INC.

November 08. A Group Session on Bullying titled “Breaking the Cycle: Understanding and Addressing Bullying and Behavior” was successfully conducted at the Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. The session, initiated by the children in the center, was organized in collaboration with the Social Work Interns. The activity was facilitated by the Interns together with Resource Speakers Ms. Jeziel L. Mendoza, RSW, and Ms. Rogena Ordas, RSW, who shared meaningful insights on how to recognize, understand, and appropriately address bullying behaviors. The session aimed to raise awareness, foster empathy, and empower the children with practical strategies to respond to bullying in a healthy and constructive manner. To formally conclude the program, certificates were awarded to acknowledge the active participation and valuable contributions of all individuals involved in the successful conduct of the session.

SOCIAL WORK INTERNS CONDUCTED A FINAL SHARING

November 14. The Social Work Interns at the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. successfully conducted their Final Sharing, marking an important milestone in their practicum journey. The panel was composed of Ma’am Maria Rogena Ordas, School Supervisor, and Ms. Jeziel L. Mendoza, Agency Social Worker. During the session, the Interns confidently presented and defended their assigned cases, demonstrating their enhanced competencies, analytical skills, and professional growth developed throughout their practicum period. The activity highlighted their readiness for real-world practice and their commitment to delivering quality social work services.

SOCIAL WORK INTERNS CONCLUDE THEIR THREE-MONTH SERVICE WITH HEARTFELT CULMINATING ACTIVITY

November 15. The Social Work Interns of the Residential Care Facility officially concluded their three-month Field Instruction 1 (Agency-Based) with a meaningful and joy-filled culminating activity held together with the learners and staff of the center. The event featured a series of presentations from both Interns and the learners, highlighting their creativity, teamwork, and the strong relationships built over the course of the practicum. Learners also shared touching messages for the OJTs, expressing deep gratitude for their continuous guidance, support, and presence throughout the past months. As a token of appreciation, the Interns prepared gifts for the staff, sisters, and learners. The program also included the awarding of certificates to the Interns in recognition of their dedicated service and valuable contributions to the agency’s programs and the overall well-being of the children. One of the key highlights of the celebration was the Guardian Angel Revelation, where participants gathered in a circle to describe and present gifts to the individuals they had been secretly assigned as their “Angels.” This moment fostered excitement, appreciation, and heartfelt connections within the community. The culminating program concluded with a shared meal, giving everyone the opportunity to celebrate, reflect, and cherish the final moments of the Interns’ stay. The event marked a meaningful and memorable end to their practicum journey. 

FIRE SAFETY PREVENTION SEMINAR AND FIRE DRILL

November 18. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc., in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection, successfully conducted a Fire Safety Prevention Seminar and Fire Drill on November 18, 2025. The seminar was facilitated by FO1 Ronald Allan A. Alcantara, who thoroughly discussed essential fire prevention techniques and vital safety measures. Learners and staff actively participated in the activity, gaining important knowledge on how to prevent fire incidents and respond appropriately during emergencies. After the seminar, a practical fire drill was conducted, giving everyone hands-on experience in carrying out the correct steps to control and respond to a fire safely. As a residential facility, the Laura Vicuña Foundation expressed its gratitude for the training, recognizing it as an important support in strengthening the preparedness of staff and ensuring the safety and protection of the entire community.

CLOSING PROGRAM OF BATCH 2 ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION TRAINEES

November 21. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. Farm School Program successfully held the graduation ceremony for Batch 2 trainees of the Organic Agriculture Production course on November 21, 2025. The event was graced by representatives from the City Agriculture Office, Ma’am Melissa U. Macasaet, RA, and Ma’am Daisy Bundal, who joined the celebration of the trainees’ achievements. The program began with opening remarks from Sr. Rosalia A. Panganiban, FMA, followed by a meaningful message delivered by the City Agriculturist, acknowledging the efforts and dedication of the trainees throughout the program. The ceremony concluded with a simple lunch, giving attendees the opportunity to celebrate the successful completion of the training and to share a moment of fellowship.

START OF TRAINING FOR ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION (OAP) 3RD BATCH

November 24. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. Farm School Program officially launched the 3rd Batch of Organic Agriculture Production NC II, with a warm and welcoming program for all participants. The program started with welcome remarks of Sr. Leilani Barañao and an inspiring message from Kevin James Oliveros, President of trainees in 2nd batch. During the first day of training, the trainees actively engaged in the introductory activities, marking the beginning of their journey toward acquiring essential skills and knowledge in Organic Agriculture Production. The event set a positive tone for the comprehensive training program ahead, emphasizing collaboration, learning, and hands-on experience.

GENEROUS VOLUNTEER BRINGS JOY TO CHILDREN AT LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION, INC.

November 30. A generous past volunteer, Ms. Mary Norine Ramirez, RPm visited the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. together with her companions. They brought goods and gifts for the children, spreading happiness and warmth throughout the center. The children were delighted and expressed their joy for the thoughtful gifts received, making the day a memorable for everyone.

LVFI VICTORIAS

COMPANY VISIT AND MONITORING OF THE “ON THE JOB TRAINING” TRAINEES
November 23 to 26. Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA and Mr. Darrenz M. Caberoy conducted a company visit and monitoring of On-the-Job Training (OJT) trainees in Manila, Philippines.

The activity aimed to assess the progress of trainees, ensure they are applying their technical and vocational skills effectively, and provide guidance for further development. By visiting partner companies and interacting with trainees, the team reinforced the connection between training institutions and industry, ensuring a quality and practical learning experience for all participants. The visit highlighted the commitment to nurturing competent and industry-ready graduates through hands-on training and continuous mentorship.

RELIEF OPERATION

November 15. Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, together with the Faculty and Staff, Students, and Trainees, led a Rice Relief Operation at the Laura Vicuna Hall as part of the school’s disaster risk reduction response to “Bagyong Tino and Uwan.” During the activity, the team distributed 25 kilos of rice to each affected family, ensuring that immediate food needs were met in the aftermath of the storms. The collaborative effort of volunteers—packing, organizing, and handing out the rice—reflected the community’s deep sense of solidarity and readiness to extend help where it was most needed. This initiative not only provided essential support but also allowed students and trainees to actively participate in a meaningful act of service, reinforcing the importance of preparedness, compassion, and unity during times of calamity. The event underscored the school’s ongoing commitment to disaster response and its mission to stand with the community in moments of hardship.

PARENTS FORMATION AND DISTRIBUTION OF CARDS

November 15. The school held its Parents Formation and Distribution of Cards program at the School Gymnasium, attended by faculty, staff, parents, students, and trainees. The program was opened by Sr. Naida R. Alcaraz, FMA, who welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of parental involvement. Ms. Jonalyn A. Ayola delivered a talk on the “Preventive System,” guiding parents on fostering positive values and responsible behavior in students. The event concluded with the distribution of cards, recognizing parents’ support and strengthening the partnership between families and the school in promoting students’ growth.

YOUTH ENCOUNTER FOR TVET TRAINEES

November 20-22 and 27-29. LVFI hosted the Youth Encounter for TVET Trainees at its premises. Faculty, staff, and trainees joined in a transformative three-day program designed to help young people grow spiritually, understand themselves better, and deepen their relationship with God. Through interactive sessions, reflections, and group activities, participants were encouraged to explore their faith, talents, and personal goals, making the encounter both inspiring and life changing.

BOSCO EDTECH SUMMIT 2025

The Bosco EdTech Summit 2025 took place on November 21-22, 2025 at Don Bosco Technical Institute Makati. The event was led by Sr. Naida R. Alcaraz, FMA, Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, and Mr. Darrenz M. Caberoy. The summit brought together educators and technology enthusiasts to explore innovative approaches in education and the integration of digital tools in learning. Through workshops, discussions, and presentations, participants gained insights into modern educational technologies and strategies for enhancing teaching and learning experiences. The successful summit highlighted the importance of embracing technology to empower both educators and students in the evolving landscape of education.

SMMS “SUNSET STRIDE FUN RUN”

November 15. Saint Mary Mazzarello School (SMMS) hosted the “Sunset Stride Fun Run” in Victorias City. Mr. Kenneth John P. Cornelio, Ms. Ma. Aika F. Tacud, and trainee volunteers assisted during the event, helping with registration and supporting participants throughout the run. The fun run promoted health, wellness, and community spirit, bringing together runners of all ages to enjoy a scenic route and a day of camaraderie. The event showcased SMMS’s commitment to active lifestyles and community involvement among its students and trainees.

LVF CUBAO, QC WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

WEEKLY CATECHESIS
Every Sunday, the kids were accompanied by the LVF Child Protection Clinic (CPC) Communities going to the center for the weekly catechesis facilitated by Sr. Sarah Grace Robas, FMA. Ate Lailah, a parent leader from LVF CPC Pinagkaisahan said that the children learned many things from joining the formation saying that “marami ako nakikitang pagbabago sa mga ugali ng mga bata. Napansin ko ngayon sa mga bata na umaattend sa catechesis, marunong gumalang sa mga magulang at matatanda.” (I have noticed a lot of behavioral changes with the kids. I have seen that they become more respectful not only to their parents but to others as well). We are grateful with Sr. Sarah who patiently teaches the kids about Jesus, and to always choose the right thing. She added that they too, as parents have learned a lot “…kaming mga magulang Marami dn kami natutunan sa kanya ipinamahagi na kaalam tungkol sa Panginoon.”  (We, as parents have learned a lot too, along with the kids we accompany.) Every Sunday is kids’ day at LVF! This is a day filled with fun games and singing! “Their excitement for the catechesis is consistent; they even ask me every Saturday if Sunday’s formation is happening!” Ate Laila added. 

SOLIDARITYSERYE

The Laura Vicuña Foundation remains committed to supporting its Child Protection Clinic Communities through the ongoing Solidarityserye initiative. Following educational sessions with Sr. Sarah Grace Robas, FMA, students are treated to snacks provided by our generous partners. We sincerely thank Breadtalk, Purple Oven, and RFM Corp. for their consistent weekly bread donations.

PASWI-COP

Every week, social workers gather virtually for the Circle of Prayer (COP) to find strength and renewal. This collaborative effort between PASWI local chapters, schools, and the Laura Vicuña Foundation is led by Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, FMA, and Ma’am Eva Ponce De Leon. For many in the profession, these sessions are a meaningful way to reset and find balance amidst social workers demanding work.

by mir321

September 2025 News

AN LVF’S SEP’TEAM’BER TO REMEMBER: FROM LAUNCH LEADERS AND PARTNERSHIPS TO YOUTH CHAMPIONS AND COMMUNITY ACTION

Teamwork is a crucial ingredient in achieving big goals. It is the collaborative effort of a group to achieve a common goal, bringing together diverse skills, perspectives, and experiences to solve problems and drive innovation. Through teamwork, collaboration, and partnerships, LVF successfully held the #iamBRAVE National Forum, which was actively participated in by more than 2,000 students from Metro Manila, Visayas, and Mindanao. The Forum steered a dialogue child protection issues, children and human rights, and development of commitment-building among the participants.

The existing Memorandum of Agreements (MOA) between LVF TVET Centers in Malihao and different partner companies ensures a cooperative relationship between two parties to a collaborative agreement, including service partnerships or agreements to provide technical assistance and training. At LVF Macarascas, Palawan, the National Certificate (NC) II in Organic Agriculture Production has commenced for its first batch of trainees.

Indeed, teamwork allows us to achieve greater things and wider reach (thousands) of young people!
Indeed Sep’team’ber 2025, is a month to remember with its amazing reach and networks.

YOUTH CHAMPIONS TAKE CENTER STAGE AT THE LVF #iamBRAVE NATIONAL FORUM

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

LVF STRENGTHENS PARTNERSHIP WITH WESTERN PHILIPPINES UNIVERSITY THROUGH STAKEHOLDER’S CONSULTATION
LVF LAUNCHES FIRST BATCH OF ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION NC II TRAINING
LVF CELEBRATES THE FEAST OF THE NATIVITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
LVF PARTNERS WITH PHILIPPINE RED CROSS FOR FIRST AID AND BLS LECTURE ON WORLD FIRST AID DAY
LVF JOINS ABSNET PALAWAN CLUSTER 3RD QUARTER MEETING AND LEARNING VISIT AT RIO TUBA, PALAWAN
LVF PARENTS CONDUCTED GULPIMANO FOR RICE PLANTING

LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS CITY
OJT DEPLOYMENT
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIC AND CONDUCT AWARDEES RECOGNITION
MEETING WITH THE CEO OF BUSINESS SET-UP AND COMPLIANCE INC.
MOA SIGNING WITH PURPLE OVEN
PROPOSAL OF NEW MOA- ALTER TO FIT COMPANY
OCULAR VISIT FOR THE UPCOMING HOUSEKEEPING NC II ASSESSMENT
FACULTY AND STAFF FORMATION
YOUTH ENCOUNTER
EDUCATOR’S DAY CELEBRATION
MICRO CREDENTIALS WORKSHOP
FIRST AID SEMINAR
PILGRIMAGE OF HOPE

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
LVF JOINS THE SOCIAL WORK PROFESSIONAL DEV’T EXCHANGE PROGRAM
NCCYP MEETING
NSC-CRA
LVF QC WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
SUNDAY CATECHESIS
SOLIDARITY SERIES
PASWI-COP

YOUTH CHAMPIONS TAKE CENTER STAGE AT THE LVF #iamBRAVE

NATIONAL FORUM

The call for a safer, more respectful society for children and youth reverberated across the New Frontier Theater, Araneta City, Cubao, QC, last September 10, 2025 as the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. (LVF) successfully held its highly anticipated #iamBRAVE (Buddies Reject Abuse, Violence, and Exploitation) National Forum. Two Thousand Two Hundred (2,200) adults and young people from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao came together for the event to further the conversation around child and youth protection and empowerment.

The National Forum, a celebration of LVF’s 35th Anniversary, focused on mobilizing youth to become active Buddies—compassionate allies who reject abuse, violence, and exploitation within their communities and schools. The young people were challenged to move beyond being mere recipients of protection and transform into empowered advocates for human dignity and safe spaces. The forum addressed the Philippines’ persistent child protection crisis, tackling issues ranging from online sexual abuse and exploitation to human trafficking and bullying. Speakers, who included experts in human rights, law, gender, and social work, provided comprehensive insights on the gravity of the issues and the steps necessary to combat them effectively. The afternoon was youth-led. A significant highlight was the roundtable discussion featuring student leaders from different schools. Their fresh perspectives and enthusiasm helped chart actionable ways to uphold the #iamBRAVE movement’s goals. These young leaders drafted a collective manifesto, affirming their commitment to living BRAVE—Buddies who Reject Abuse, Violence, and Exploitation—and ensuring that safety is recognized as a fundamental human right and not a privilege.

Sister Marivic P. Sta. Ana, FMA, Executive Director of LVF, emphasized that the initiative is rooted in the belief that disclosures of abuse are often made to close friends. By mobilizing peers as Buddies, the movement aims to create a stronger, grassroots defense system for vulnerable youth. The event served as a powerful platform for uniting voices nationwide, promoting a more respectful, nurturing, and safer world for all children. The success of the National Forum underscored the determination of the LVF to expand the #iamBRAVE movement beyond national borders, carrying its message of hope and resilience to the international stage. The gathering demonstrated that with their voices amplified, these young champions are the genuine force ensuring that the fight against exploitation and abuse continues with unwavering commitment.

Grateful thanks to the LVF Board: Mrs. Bledes Fores-Legarda, Mr. Eric Puno, Mr. Paquito Dizon, Atty. Rosela Mapa, Ms. Marissa Concepcion, Ms. Vicky Cuisia, Ms. Marilen Espiritu, Marguerite Sy, Ms. Josefina Tan, Sr. Teresita Padron, FMA & Sisters.

Speakers: Dr. John Christopher Castillo, Fr. Marvin Labasan, Prof. Jowima Reyes, Atty. Rosella Puno-Mapa, Ms. Jean Enriquez

LVF #iamBRAVE Ambassadors: Miss Rocio Puno, Mr. Dave Andrew Ponce de Leon, Mr. Paulo Roxas Ms. Carolyn Thor—master of ceremony; Ms. Jonalyn Bren, facilitator of the roundtable discussion; and Ms. Ana Dionela & Ms. Emy India—advisers in the making of the manifesto drafted by the young people. This forum is made possible in partnership with Ms. Bledes Fores-Legarda & Veana Fores of the New Frontier Theater & Staff, Cross Catholic Outreach and Don Bosco Mondo-Germany.

Participating Schools, Organizations and Communities: Systems Plus Computer College Foundation, Inc; St. Paul University Quezon City; Samson Institute of Technology; STI College Cubao; Colegio de Sta. Ana de Victorias-Visayas; Southern Christian College-Mindanao; Vides; Adma; Association of Salesian Cooperators; FMA Past Pupils’ Association; MHCC Oratorians; DBS Oratorians; MHCS Pampanga Oratorians; Mary Help of Christians College-Salesian Sisters, Inc.; Mary Help of Christians School (Pampanga), Inc.; Mary Our Help Technical Institute for Women (Pampanga), Inc.; Don Bosco School – Salesian Sisters, Inc.; Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc.-Cubao; FMA Provincial House; St. Mary Mazzarello Novitiate; Mary Immaculate Aspirantate; LVF Child Protection Communities from Taguig, Marikina, Pinagkaisahan, Hillcrest, Sta. Mesa; Puno Law Office Lawyers.

MANIFESTO CRAFTED by #iamBRAVE YOUTH PARTICIPANTS

We, the 2,000+ young citizens, who attended the ‘I am Brave’ National Forum in New Frontier Theater on September 10, 2025, courageously assert the following statements: 

We believe that abuse and violence have no place in this world. We believe we can do something, and we do have the power to stop it. We believe that we should fight against all forms of violence and exploitation. We believe that we carry messages of hope—that we are created in the image and likeness of God, and we do have inherent dignity and worth.

We commit to be there for the voiceless, particularly the victims. We commit to be a safe space for all, for our buddies, especially the young people. We commit to be brave enough to be part of the solution. We commit to being inclusive and child friendly by using our skills in social media to raise awareness for a good cause and advocate to stop violence and exploitation. We commit to start this change with ourselves, especially in committing in stop the spread of these immoral videos and trends. We also commit to seek help from authorities, if needed. We will also mirror God’s values—by being kind and supportive of our buddies. We commit to be open to discussions regarding human rights. We commit to conduct advocacy and awareness campaigns within school campus and even in our community.

We demand a change from the following institutions:
First, our families, we demand a place of nurture and love—a home with support and care. We demand the start of an age-friendly sex education within the family. We demand an open-communication and understanding between family members. We demand that they respect our rights as your children.

Second, our schools, we demand a zero tolerance to all forms of abuses and inequality through strong implementation of the child protection policy. We demand to the whole educating community to collaborate with the necessary agencies to provide students with utmost protection for their well-being—allowing the voices of students to be heard.

And lastly, our church and community, we demand the continuous empowerment of our youth for a meaningful and active participation in local governance. We also demand accountability from perpetrators. We demand a better electoral process, a better mechanism for choosing our future leaders.
As catalysts of change, we collectively join in practicing Christian values and choose to be brave to stand and stop abuse, violence, and exploitation. I am Brave, we are Brave—abuse has no place in this world.

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

LVF STRENGTHENS PARTNERSHIP WITH WESTERN PHILIPPINES UNIVERSITY THROUGH STAKEHOLDER’S CONSULTATION
 
Sept. 05. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc.-Palawan participated in the Stakeholder’s Consultation organized by Western Philippines University–Social Work Department as part of the ongoing Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the two partner agencies. The consultation aimed to strengthen collaboration through program monitoring and evaluation of the Social Work Field Instruction. Representing the center, Ms. Jeziel L. Mendoza, RSW, attended the said consultation and shared valuable insights on the implementation of the program. During the event, Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc.—Palawan received a Certificate of Recognition and Award as one of the partner agencies of Western Philippines University in the Field Instruction of Social Work Students. This recognition highlights LVF’s commitment to supporting academic institutions in developing future social workers while fulfilling its mission of holistic care and social transformation.

LVF LAUNCHES FIRST BATCH OF ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION NC II TRAINING

September 8. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc.–Palawan formally opened the first batch of the Organic Agriculture Production NC II Training. The opening activity was graced by Ms. Melissa U. Macasaet, City Agriculturist, who delivered words of encouragement and expressed her full support for the trainees. This skills training program is made possible through the TESDA Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP), which provides valuable opportunities for participants to gain competencies in organic agriculture. By equipping individuals with sustainable farming knowledge and practices, the training aims to strengthen livelihood prospects and contribute to community food security. Through this initiative, LVF continues to empower individuals and families towards self-sufficiency while promoting sustainable agriculture in Palawan.

LVF CELEBRATES THE FEAST OF THE NATIVITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

September 08. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc.-Palawan (LVF) joyfully celebrated the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary with a simple yet meaningful community gathering. The celebration began with the praying of the Holy Rosary, followed by a Good Day Talk led by Sr. Leilani Barañao, FMA, inspiring everyone with reflections on Mary’s life of humility, faith, and obedience. A short presentation in honor of Mary through song added to the spirit of devotion and thanksgiving. The evening concluded with a shared dinner, fostering fellowship and unity among the sisters, staff, and students of LVF.

LVF PARTNERS WITH PHILIPPINE RED CROSS FOR FIRST AID AND BLS LECTURE ON WORLD FIRST AID DAY

September 13. The Philippine Red Cross Palawan Chapter, upon the request of Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc.—Palawan, successfully conducted a lecture-seminar on First Aid and Basic Life Support (BLS)—CPR demonstration for the learners and staff of Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. In line with the global observance of World First Aid Day, the Philippine Red Cross also delivered a special lecture with the theme “First Aid and Climate Change.” This highlighted the importance of equipping individuals with life-saving skills and knowledge, especially in the context of increasing climate-related risks and emergencies, which strengthens the capacity of the LVF community in promoting health, safety, and preparedness. 

LVF JOINS ABSNET PALAWAN CLUSTER 3RD QUARTER MEETING AND LEARNING VISIT AT RIO TUBA, PALAWAN

September 18. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Palawan Inc., reaffirmed its commitment to active participation in the Area-Based Standards Network (ABS Net) by attending the 3rd Quarter Cluster Meeting held at Rio Tuba, Palawan. The event began with the opening ceremony and welcome remarks from the cluster chair, followed by a briefing at Nickel Nook and a site tour hosted by the Rio Tuba Nickel Foundation, Inc. (RTNFI).

Part II of the program focused on the discussion of the Additional Implementation Guide on Memorandum Circular No. 8, Series of 2025. This was followed by the cluster election of officers, facilitated by the Standards Section, and the oath-taking of the newly elected ABS Net officers. The meeting concluded with a closing message delivered by the RTN Foundation, underscoring the importance of strong partnerships and shared learning among member organizations. Through its continued involvement in ABS Net, LVF remains steadfast in promoting collaboration and ensuring compliance with standards in the delivery of social welfare and development services.

LVF PARENTS CONDUCTED GULPIMANO FOR RICE PLANTING

September 20. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc.-Palawan (LVF) conducted a Gulpimano with parents to plant rice intended for the community’s consumption. The activity forms part of the ongoing school year program of LVF, highlighting the parents’ commitment and support to their children’s holistic development. It also reflects LVF’s effort to integrate agricultural practices into community life, fostering unity, cooperation, and sustainability. Through this initiative, both parents and students not only contributed to food security but also strengthened family and community bonds while living out the values of hard work and solidarity.

LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS CITY

OJT DEPLOYMENT
On Monday, September 8, 2025, the TVET trainees officially began their On-the-Job Training (OJT) in Manila. This marks an important step in their training as they move from classroom learning to real workplace experience. Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA – Technical Directress and Ms. Ma. Socorro C. Bayles, the industrial coordinator, was present to guide and encourage the trainees before their deployment. They reminded the students to apply the skills and values they learned during their training and to do their best in their assigned workplaces. The OJT experience will help the trainees become more prepared and confident as they work toward their future careers.

SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIC AND CONDUCT AWARDEES RECOGNITION

On September 8, 2025, the School Gymnasium was filled with pride as the school held the Senior High School Academic and Conduct Awardees Recognition. Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, together with the section advisers, led the program to honor senior high school students who showed excellent performance in their studies and good conduct throughout the school year. The awardees were praised for their hard work, discipline, and good examples to others. The event reminded everyone that success comes not only from doing well in class but also from showing respect and responsibility. It was a meaningful celebration of both achievement and character.

MEETING WITH THE CEO OF BUSINESS SET-UP AND COMPLIANCE INC.

On Tuesday, September 9, 2025, Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, and Ms. Ma. Socorro C. Bayles met with Ms. Raquel O. Villarante, CEO of Business Set-up and Compliance Inc., and Mr. Jestec Sustua, Compliance Supervisor. They talked about making changes to the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between their groups. The meeting focused on making the agreement clearer and better for both sides. Everyone agreed that updating the MOA will help their partnership work more smoothly. They look forward to finishing the updated agreement soon. 

MOA SIGNING WITH PURPLE OVEN

September 10. Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, and Ms. Ma. Socorro C. Bayles signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Ms. Katrina Sy, CEO and General Manager of Purple Oven. The signing took place at Grace Park, Rockwell, Makati City. This agreement strengthens the ongoing partnership between the two organizations. It outlines the responsibilities of each party and sets the stage for future projects that will benefit both organizations and the communities they serve. Through this MOA, both groups aim to work closely together to support their shared goals and open new opportunities for collaboration and growth. Both organizations look forward to continuing their strong partnership and achieving greater success together. 

PROPOSAL OF NEW MOA- ALTER TO FIT COMPANY

On Thursday, September 11, 2025, Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, and Ms. Ma. Socorro C. Bayles met with Ma’am Michelle Balisbis, owner, and Ma’am Salvacion Cruz, general manager of Alter to Fit Company. The meeting took place at the Alter to Fit Office in Henry’s Building, Ortigas Avenue, Greenhills. During the meeting, they discussed the proposal for a new Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the organizations. The proposed MOA aims to update and improve their partnership to better fit the current needs of both parties. Both sides are looking forward to working together closely and strengthening their cooperation through this new agreement. 

OCULAR VISIT FOR THE UPCOMING HOUSEKEEPING NC II ASSESSMENT

On Friday, September 19, 2025, Sir Rino N. Barrido and Ms. Ailene M. Ondon, together with Ma’am Melanie G. Torres, president of MDM College, and Ma’am Shiela S. Flor, the housekeeping trainer, conducted an ocular visit at MDM (Mastery Discipline and Motivation) College in Sagay City. The visit was done to prepare for the upcoming Housekeeping NC II assessment. During the ocular visit, the team checked the facilities and equipment to make sure everything is ready and meets the standards for the assessment. This visit is important to help the students and trainers prepare well for the assessment, which will test their skills and knowledge in housekeeping. The team expressed their commitment to support the students and ensure a smooth and successful assessment.

FACULTY AND STAFF FORMATION

On Saturday, September 6, 2025, the faculty and staff gathered at LV Hall for a meaningful Faculty and Staff Formation facilitated by Sr. Naida R. Alcaraz, FMA. The formation encouraged reflection, spiritual growth, and stronger participant connections.  Sr. Naida shared her insights and experiences, guiding the group through enriching sessions that focused on mission, values, and community building. The event served as a reminder of the important role each faculty and staff member plays in shaping not only minds but also hearts, rooted in a shared commitment to service and faith. 

YOUTH ENCOUNTER

September 25 to 27. The faculty, staff, and Grade 12 students gathered at the LV Hall for a special event called the Youth Encounter. This three-day event was designed to help the young participants grow in faith, friendship, and self-awareness. Through a mix of activities, talks, and group reflections, the students had the chance to explore their values, dreams, and challenges in a supportive and caring environment. Faculty and staff joined in to guide and encourage the students, creating a space where everyone could share and learn from one another. The Youth Encounter aimed to strengthen the sense of community and inspire the youth to live with hope and purpose. The days were filled with meaningful conversations, fun activities, and moments of prayer and reflection, making the experience memorable and uplifting for all who took part.

EDUCATOR’S DAY CELEBRATION

September 24. The entire educating community, together with students and trainees, gathered at the school gymnasium to celebrate Educator’s Day—a special day dedicated to honoring the teachers and educators who play a vital role in shaping lives and futures. The event was filled with sincere gratitude and joy as everyone took time to recognize the hard work, patience, and dedication that educators bring every day. Students and trainees prepared heartfelt performances, messages, and simple acts of appreciation to express how much they value the guidance and support of their teachers. Educator’s Day is more than just a celebration; it is a reminder of the important role that teachers have in inspiring, encouraging, and nurturing the potential of every learner. It is a day to thank them not only for sharing knowledge but also for shaping character and instilling hope. The celebration created a warm and uplifting atmosphere where teachers felt truly appreciated and respected. It strengthened the bond between the educators and the learners, fostering a deeper sense of community and shared purpose.

MICRO CREDENTIALS WORKSHOP

September 18. Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA; Ms. Ailene M. Ondon; and Ms. Gina G. Inson participated in a Micro Credentials Workshop held at Nature’s Village in Talisay City. Micro-credential training is a quick and focused way to learn specific skills. Unlike traditional college degrees that take years, micro-credentials can be completed in weeks or months. Participants earn certificates or digital badges that prove their skills. This type of training, often available online, helps individuals improve job-related skills quickly. It is designed to support career growth and meet the needs of today’s employers. 

FIRST AID SEMINAR

September 22. The CDRRMO, along with faculty, staff, students, and trainees, gathered at the school gymnasium for a First Aid Seminar. The seminar aimed to teach important first aid skills that can help save lives in emergencies. Participants learned how to respond quickly and safely to different situations, such as cuts, burns, and choking. The CDRRMO instructors guided everyone through practical demonstrations and shared useful tips to be ready in case of accidents. The event was a valuable learning experience that helped build confidence and prepared the school community to act calmly and effectively in emergencies. 

PILGRIMAGE OF HOPE

On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, the Grade 12 students, together with Sr. Naida R. Alcaraz, FMA, Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, Sr. Therese Yvonne L. Jance, FMA, Sr. Victoria Octoso, and the faculty and staff, joined a special event called the Pilgrimage of Hope. The group traveled from Silay City to Bago City, not just to visit places, but to grow stronger in faith and unity. The pilgrimage was a time for quiet reflection, prayer, and being together as one school community. Along the way, the group stopped at different places to pray, reflect, and listen to short talks. These moments helped everyone think about their lives, their faith, and their hopes for the future. The presence of the FMA Sisters made the experience even more meaningful. They guided the students and staff throughout the day, reminding everyone of the importance of trusting in God, helping others, and staying hopeful, even during hard times. For many students, it was their first time joining a pilgrimage. It gave them a chance to pause, take a break from their busy school life, and focus on their relationship with God. It also helped them feel closer to their classmates, teachers, and the Sisters. The Pilgrimage of Hope was truly a day to remember. It was not only a physical journey from one city to another but also a spiritual journey that brought peace, joy, and deeper faith to everyone who joined.

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

LVF JOINS THE SOCIAL WORK PROFESSIONAL DEV’T EXCHANGE PROGRAM
September 6 to 21. Twelve (12) Filipino social workers traveled to Thailand for the Social Work Professional Development Exchange Program, an initiative jointly organized by the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI) and the Social Work Professions Council of Thailand (SWPCT). Through this collaboration, PASWI and SWPCT aim to elevate the practice and professionalism of social work in both countries, promote mutual learning and cross-cultural understanding, share best practices, and acquire innovative strategies to strengthen community-based and elderly care services in the Philippines and Thailand. The 16-day exchange program offered a comprehensive learning experience through a combination of lectures and agency visits to community centers and elderly facilities. Participants observed firsthand how Thailand implements its community-based and home care programs for older persons, spearheaded by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS). The program showcased innovative models of elder care, emphasizing active aging, skills development, and lifelong learning opportunities that empower older adults to remain productive and socially engaged. Among the twelve delegates from the Philippines was Ms. Jessa Mae S. Nardo, RSW, representing the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. (LVF). Her participation underscored LVF’s commitment to strengthening social work practice and supporting programs that uphold the dignity and welfare of persons, especially older persons. The exchange highlighted several best practices in Thailand’s elderly care system, providing safe and vibrant environments where older persons not only received care but also actively engaged in recreational activities, trainings, and learning programs that improved their quality of life. Equally important were community-based services supported by local governments, institutions, and volunteers that demonstrate how collaboration at all levels ensures comprehensive care for older persons. The Philippine delegation expressed its gratitude to the PASWI Board of Directors and SWPCT for making the program possible, including Professor Rapeepan Khamhome (President of SWPCT), Ms. Vanpa Lumjeakthes (Secretary-General of SWPCT), Dr. Harutai Kamolsirisakul (International Affairs Sub-Committee of SWPCT), and Dr. Puchong Senanuch (Vice Chairman of the Subcommittee on Foreign Affairs Council, SWPCT), as well as the SWPCT staff. Appreciation was also extended to Ms. Eva Ponce De Leon, Executive Director of PASWI, and PASWI President Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA, RSW, and MSSW, for their guidance and support throughout the learning exchange. Ms. Jessa imparted that for her, “…the experience was both enriching and inspiring. The exchange broadened my perspective on elderly care and deepened my appreciation for the rights and dignity of older persons. The lessons I learned will serve as my guide in developing and strengthening community-based services to the vulnerable in the Philippines. This program strengthened and deepened my commitment to advancing the welfare of older persons and to translating these learnings into meaningful action within my community.” 

NCCYP MEETING

September 24. The Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. Joined the 3rd quarter meeting of the National Committee on Child and Youth Participation (NCCYP) Committee held at the National Council on Disability Affairs, NCDA Building. The meeting included the presentation of the updated draft of the NCCYP TOR and the presentation of updates on the development of the Harmonized National Child and Youth Participation Framework. 

NSC-CRA
September 25. The National Steering Committee on Child Rights Advocacy (NSC-CRA) conducted its 3rd steering committee meeting at the CWC office. The Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) spearheads this annual celebration.

LVF QC WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

SUNDAY CATECHESIS
The LVF Sunday catechesis, facilitated by Sr. Sarah Grace Garcia and Sr. Phebe Lacse, continue the spiritual formation of children, young people, and families in the Child Protection Clinic Communities (CPC).

SOLIDARITYSERYE

Solidarity reminds us that our individual struggles are often shared. By standing together—sharing resources, amplifying voices, and taking collective action—we can build a more just and equitable world.

PASWI-COP

Social workers routinely confront human difficulties, complex trauma, and systemic injustices, leading to compassion fatigue, secondary traumatic stress, and burnout. In navigating these profound challenges, a consistent prayer life emerges. One of the most immediate benefits of a sustained prayer life is the cultivation of personal and professional resilience against the inevitable emotional burdens of the job. The Circle of Prayer (COP) is an avenue for social workers to come together in prayer, sharing in the Word of God and life’s experiences of His graces. This is co-hosted by the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI) local chapters, facilitated by PASWI President, Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA and PASWI Executive Director, Ms. Eva Ponce de Leon.

by mir321

August 2025 News

LVF AUGUST RUSH: FINISHING THE SUMMER STRONG

The height of the growing season occurs in August. We are beginning a new month at LVF to enjoy the Lord’s bounties and graces. The Daughters of Mary Help of Christians celebrated their 153rd anniversary in the LVF communities. We are all excited about the first 15 trainees from the Laura Vicuña Women Development Training Center’s Victorias, Negros Occidental industrial immersion program being deployed in Metro Manila. The National Certificate (NC) II candidates’ preparedness is further enhanced by the Housekeeping Assessment. Parents and students participated in a formation session held by LVF Macarascas, Palawan. The girls mapped out their professional paths and future aspirations at LVF Cubao, QC. What a busy month it was. It only means one thing—we do not rest, there is no low season when it comes to the welfare of the young people.


LVF MALIHAO
FIRST BATCH OF DEPLOYMENT TO MANILA
HOUSEKEEPING NC II ASSESSMENT
REGISTRAR’S TRAINING FOR GRADING SHEET
SSLG ELECTION
SCHOOL’S DEPUTY INFORMATION OFFICER- CAPACITY BUILDING SESSION II
INSTITUTE DAY
ENTREPRENEURSHIP SEMINAR
HOME VISITATION TO SELECTED GRADE 12 STUDENTS
PROMOTING THE RIGHTS TO EDUCATION AND HUMAN RIGHTS EDUCATION
DAY OF PRAYER AND FASTING FOR PEACE
SOLEMNITY OF THE ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
JAPANESE FRIENDS VISITS LVFI
VICTORIAS’ CITY SCHOLARSHIP AND EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE
NATIONAL TECH-VOC DAY
SYM – ALFA 2025
MANGROVE PLANTING ACTIVITY—PLANTING HOPE ALONG OUR JOURNEY

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN
LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC.-PALAWAN CONDUCTS BACK-TO-SCHOOL ORIENTATION
BCBP-NORTH VISITS AND CONDUCTS ART THERAPY AT LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION-PALAWAN
LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC.–PALAWAN CELEBRATES THE 153rd ANNIVERSARY OF THE DAUGHTERS OF MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS
BSP PUERTO PRINCESA BRANCH CONDUCTS OUTREACH ACTIVITY AT LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION, PALAWAN
PASWI AND THAI SOCIAL WORKERS VISIT LVF-PALAWAN
THANKSGIVING PROGRAM TO MADRESELVA VOLUNTEERS FROM SPAIN AT LVF PALAWAN
LVF PALAWAN HOLDS PARENT AND LEARNER FORMATION

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
CAPABILITY BUILDING FOR SOCIAL WORK AGENCIES
THE LAUGHING HOLY FAMILY

BUWAN NG WIKA 
LVF MALIHAO
LVF CUBAO, QC
CAREER PATHING
MUSIC IN MOTION

LVF CUBAO, QC WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
SUNDAY CATECHESIS
SOLIDARITYSERYE
PASWI COP

LVF MALIHAO

FIRST BATCH OF DEPLOYMENT TO MANILA
August 22. The first batch of TVET trainees was deployed to Manila as part of their industry immersion program. A total of fifteen (15) trainees were assigned to two different establishments to gain hands-on experience in their respective fields. Eleven trainees were deployed to Purple Oven, while four trainees were assigned to Alter to Fit. This deployment provided the trainees with valuable opportunities to apply their technical skills in real-world work environments, further enhancing their practical knowledge and preparing them for future employment. The event marked an important milestone in their training journey and demonstrated the program’s commitment to bridging education and industry.

HOUSEKEEPING NC II ASSESSMENT

August 13. Ten (10) Housekeeping TVET students took their Housekeeping NC II Assessment at Silay Institute (SI). This assessment aimed to evaluate their skills and readiness for future employment in the hospitality industry. The students were tested on various housekeeping tasks aligned with industry standards, including room preparation, cleaning procedures, and guest service. Out of the ten students, nine (9) were declared “Competent,” while one (1) still needs improvement. On Sept. 15, out of the ten (10) trainees who participated in the assessment, eight (8) were successfully rated as “Competent,” demonstrating their readiness to meet industry standards, while two (2) were marked as “Not Yet Competent,” indicating the need for further training before they can retake the assessment. This activity highlights the continuous effort to equip students with the necessary skills and certifications to pursue successful careers, and Ms. Inson’s support was instrumental in helping the trainees perform to the best of their abilities. The successful completion of the assessment by the majority of the students reflects the effectiveness of the school’s technical-vocational training and its commitment to producing skilled, job-ready graduates. It also serves as a milestone in the students’ journey toward achieving their career goals in the hospitality field.

REGISTRAR’S TRAINING FOR GRADING SHEET

August 13. The Office of the School Registrar conducted a one-day training session for the faculty focused on the proper use of the new grading sheet. The training aimed to inform and guide teachers on how to accurately and efficiently utilize the updated system when recording and computing students’ grades. During the session, faculty members were introduced to the features and structure of the new grading sheet, including step-by-step instructions, grading formulas, and common troubleshooting tips. The initiative was designed to ensure consistency, accuracy, and ease of use across all departments, ultimately supporting a more streamlined grading process. The training served as a valuable opportunity for teachers to clarify questions and familiarize themselves with the new system ahead of its full implementation.

SSLG ELECTION

August 1. The SSLG (Supreme Secondary Learner Government) Election was held at the School Gymnasium, where aspiring SSLG officers campaigned and vied for student leadership positions. The event provided a platform for students to practice their right to vote and take part in a democratic process. Supervised by the school’s election committee, the election was conducted smoothly and successfully.

SCHOOL’S DEPUTY INFORMATION OFFICER- CAPACITY BUILDING SESSION II

August 1. Miss Flora Mie M. Ellena, Arian D. Baralla, and delegates from seven other schools participated in the school’s Deputy Information Officer Capacity Building Session II, held at Aquatic Pavilion II in Victorias City. The event, organized by the Victoria City Information Office and attended by Councilor Juvy Pepello, focused on topics such as social media ethics and effective public information dissemination and featured hands-on workshops in photojournalism, photo editing, and video editing. The session concluded with a tour of the Sidlak Multimedia Center, where participants had the opportunity to explore tools and creative spaces to apply their newly acquired skills.

INSTITUTE DAY

August 07. The Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. celebrates the 153rd Institute Day of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA), which was joyously marked across communities with heartfelt thanksgiving and spiritual reflection. Rooted in Salesian tradition, this significant day is celebrated annually on August 5—a time to honor the congregation’s founding and renew its legacy in the Church.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP SEMINAR

August 08–09. TVI students immersed themselves in a two-day Entrepreneurship Seminar at the school gymnasium, guided by passionate faculty and staff. Over those days, students were introduced to essential entrepreneurial concepts—like opportunity spotting, creative thinking, and project planning—through engaging talks.  But beyond just listening, students jumped into action: armed with ideas, they sketched plans, crafted prototypes, and collaborated in groups, bringing their entrepreneurial visions into tangible form. This hands-on approach not only made their learning more memorable but also built their creativity, confidence, and teamwork skills—traits that are vital whether one starts a business or takes on any professional challenge.

HOME VISITATION TO SELECTED GRADE 12 STUDENTS

August 11. Sir Rino Barrido, Ms. Flora Mie Ellena, and Ms. Gina Inson carried out a home visitation, traveling from Dolores to Paquita II in Victorias City to investigate the frequent absences of two Grade 12 students, Kennymarie Doble and Triecksy Perono. During the visit, the teachers spoke with the students’ guardians and learned that they were unaware of any specific circumstances that would explain the students’ pattern of absences. The students themselves affirmed that they prepare daily and plan to attend school each morning, yet their attendance remained inconsistent. In response, the visiting teachers facilitated an open and collaborative discussion, which led to a formal agreement among the students, their parents or guardians, and the teachers. They all committed to ensuring that both students would resume regular attendance starting Tuesday, August 12, 2025. As a follow-up, the teachers proposed continued monitoring of attendance and further communication with the families to prevent recurrence, recognizing the critical role of collaboration between home and school in addressing absenteeism.

PROMOTING THE RIGHTS TO EDUCATION AND HUMAN RIGHTS EDUCATION

August 11. Sister Sarah B. Garcia conducted a one-day talk titled “Promoting the Right to Education and Human Rights Education.” The event aimed to raise awareness among the school community about individual rights, particularly in the context of education and human dignity. The morning session, held at the school gymnasium, was attended by students. Sister Garcia discussed the importance of education as a basic human right and encouraged the youth to become advocates for equality, inclusion, and justice. She emphasized how students can actively contribute to a more just and respectful society by understanding and standing up for their rights. In the afternoon, a separate session was conducted at the LV Hall for faculty, staff, and school personnel. This session focused on the critical role of educators in fostering a rights-based and inclusive learning environment. Key topics included non-discrimination, equal access to education, and the responsibility of schools in upholding human rights. The talk was a meaningful initiative that inspired the entire school community to become more informed, empowered, and committed to promoting human rights in their everyday lives.

DAY OF PRAYER AND FASTING FOR PEACE

August 14. Sr. Naida R. Alcaraz, FMA, and Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, together with students, faculty, and staff, came together at the LV Hall to observe a solemn Day of Prayer and Fasting for Peace. This meaningful event was held to unite the school community in a shared commitment to pray for harmony, understanding, and the promotion of peace both within the school and in the wider world. Through moments of reflection, prayer, and fasting, participants expressed their hopes for a more peaceful and compassionate society, strengthening their collective spirit and resolve to foster goodwill in their daily lives. The gathering served as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, solidarity, and action in building a better future for all.

SOLEMNITY OF THE ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

August 15. The school community gathered to celebrate the Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary with a special mass presided over by Fr. Reynante Sabilita, SDB. The solemn occasion brought together students, faculty, staff, and guests in a reverent atmosphere to honor Mary, the Mother of God, recognizing her important role in the Catholic faith. During the mass, Fr. Sabilita delivered a heartfelt homily, reflecting on Mary’s virtues of faith, humility, and obedience, inspiring the congregation to emulate her example in their own lives. The celebration provided a meaningful opportunity for spiritual renewal and communal prayer, deepening the participants’ devotion and connection to their faith.

JAPANESE FRIENDS VISITS LVFI

August 16-21. LVFI warmly welcomed a special group of visitors that included Sr. Lido, FMA, Sr. Moroshita, FMA, Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, Sr. Naida R. Alcaraz, FMA, cos-bond representatives from Japan, as well as students from Setagaya National High School. The visit also involved faculty members, staff, students, and trainees from LVFI, creating a vibrant exchange between the local and Japanese communities. Throughout their stay at the school premises, the guests participated in various activities designed to promote cultural understanding, friendship, and collaboration. This meaningful visit provided an opportunity for both hosts and visitors to share knowledge, experiences, and values, strengthening the bond between the institutions and fostering a spirit of international cooperation.

VICTORIAS’ CITY SCHOLARSHIP AND EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE

August 18. Sr. Naida R. Alcaraz, FMA, Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, and Ms. Ma. Aika F. Tacud provided valuable assistance to forty-nine (49) TVET trainees from the VCSEAP program during their Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony held at Marjhuns Restaurant and Snackbar. This important event marked a significant milestone for the trainees as they formalized their commitment to the program, paving the way for their continued training and development in technical-vocational skills. The MOA signing served not only as a symbolic agreement but also as a testament to the partnership between the trainees, the school, and the organizations involved, ensuring mutual responsibilities and support. Throughout the ceremony, Sr. Alcaraz, Sr. Deypalan and Ms. Tacud guided the trainees, helping them understand the significance of the agreement and encouraging them to take full advantage of the opportunities ahead. The event was a meaningful step toward empowering the trainees in their journey toward professional growth and future success.

NATIONAL TECH-VOC DAY

August 29. All TVI trainees and SHS students celebrated the National Tech-Voc Day as part of the nationwide celebration of the event. The day was filled with various activities showcasing the amazing talents of both trainees and students. From preparing diverse dishes with banana as the main ingredient to speed typing, bed-making, and highlighting individual talents in sketching and designing clothes, the event was a vibrant celebration of technical and vocational excellence. The celebration was graced by the presence of Sir Delfin L. Rufino Jr., Education Program Supervisor in TLE/EPP. Indeed, the National Tech-Voc Day was a meaningful and memorable  occasion, not only recognizing the importance of vocational education but also empowering students to take pride in their skills and talents.

SYM – ALFA 2025

August 30. A group of 22 SYM Leaders, accompanied by Sir Kenneth John Cornelio and Ms. Aika Tacud, convened at LV Hall to take part in the highly anticipated SYM–ALFA 2025 event. This gathering served as an important platform for the student leaders to develop and refine their leadership skills through a series of interactive workshops, team-building exercises, and insightful discussions. Throughout the day, the participants engaged in activities designed to foster collaboration, critical thinking, and effective communication—key qualities necessary for their roles as leaders within the school community. Under the expert guidance and mentorship of Sir Cornelio and Ms. Tacud, the event also emphasized the importance of responsibility, integrity, and innovation, encouraging the SYM Leaders to envision and work towards positive changes in their respective organizations. The SYM–ALFA 2025 not only strengthened the participants’ leadership capabilities but also reinforced their dedication to serving their peers and contributing meaningfully to the school’s overall development. This event highlighted the institution’s commitment to nurturing empowered and capable student leaders who are prepared to face future challenges with confidence and resilience.

MANGROVE PLANTING ACTIVITY—PLANTING HOPE ALONG OUR JOURNEY

August 30. The LVFI Community joined the SMMS Batch ’05 and the Maskara Yuhom Eagles Club in a mangrove planting activity held at the Victorias City Eco-Trail, Zone 3 Pasil, Brgy. 6A. This meaningful initiative was part of the SMMS alumni homecoming celebration, serving as a way for the alumni to give back to the community and contribute to environmental conservation. The activity highlighted the importance of environmental responsibility and community collaboration in preserving natural ecosystems. It also fostered a spirit of unity and shared purpose among the participants, as they worked hand in hand to plant mangroves and support a greener future for the next generation.

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC.-PALAWAN CONDUCTS BACK-TO-SCHOOL ORIENTATION
Aug. 1. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc.-Palawan conducted an orientation and meeting to formally welcome the learners and parents for the school year 2025–2026. The orientation covered center guidelines, agreements, and the election of new parent officers. The activity marked the official start of the academic year with renewed collaboration between the center and families.

BCBP-NORTH VISITS AND CONDUCTS ART THERAPY AT LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION-PALAWAN

Aug. 3. The Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals (BCBP)–North Palawan visited Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc.–Palawan to conduct an art therapy session for the children. The activity provided a creative and relaxing space for the children to express themselves through painting while also promoting emotional well-being. Alongside the therapeutic activity, BCBP members extended their generosity by donating goods and essentials for the children. The community expressed heartfelt gratitude for the group’s kindness and support, highlighting the joy and sense of love felt by the children during the visit.

LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC.–PALAWAN CELEBRATES THE 153RD ANNIVERSARY OF THE DAUGHTERS OF MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS

August 5. The community of Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc.–Palawan joyfully gathered to commemorate the 153rd Anniversary of the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians. The celebration began with a solemn Holy Mass, giving thanks for the gift and mission of the sisters. This was followed by the heartfelt presentations dedicated to the sisters and fun-filled parlor games that brought smiles to everyone. The day concluded with a prayerful rosary and a shared early dinner, marking the occasion with gratitude, unity, and joy.

BSP PUERTO PRINCESA BRANCH CONDUCTS OUTREACH ACTIVITY AT LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION, PALAWAN

August 16. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Puerto Princesa Branch brought smiles and warmth to the children of Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. Palawan through their Corporate Social Responsibility outreach program. The BSP team generously provided goods for the children and organized an interactive cooking session. The LVF Palawan community expressed heartfelt gratitude for BSP’s continuous support and guidance, highlighting the lasting impact of their compassionate engagement on the lives of the children.

PASWI AND THAI SOCIAL WORKERS VISIT LVF-PALAWAN

August 21. The Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI), through its Professional Development Program led by Ma’am Eva Ponce De Leon, together with Thai social workers, visited the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc.–Palawan. Together they brought joy to the learners through a meet and greet and interactive activities, fostering friendship. The day was concluded with a shared lunch among the learners and community and strengthening bonds and mutual support.

THANKSGIVING PROGRAM TO MADRESELVA VOLUNTEERS FROM SPAIN AT LVF PALAWAN

August 22. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc.–Palawan expressed heartfelt gratitude to Miguel and Maria, Madreselva Volunteers from Spain, for dedicating nearly a month of service to the children and community. Their presence radiated kindness, care, and unwavering support, as they actively assisted in various activities and became a source of inspiration. Their contributions left a lasting impact on the lives they touched. The LVF-Palawan recognized Miguel and Maria as a true blessing, cherishing the time and service they generously shared during their mission.

LVF PALAWAN HOLDS PARENT AND LEARNER FORMATION

August 24. The Laura Vicuña Foundation–Palawan held a formation activity for parents and learners centered on Protective Behaviors for Children. The session was led by Sr. Rosalia A. Panganiban, FMA, providing valuable insights and practical guidance aimed at strengthening child safety and promoting overall well-being. In addition, the induction of Newly Elected Parent Officers was held, affirming their commitment to support the growth and development of learners and their families. The meaningful activity concluded with a shared lunch, fostering camaraderie among parents, learners, and the LVF community.

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

CAPABILITY BUILDING FOR SOCIAL WORK AGENCIES
Aug. 08. The National Authority for Child Care (NACC), in partnership with DSWD-Standards Bureau, organized a four (4)-day training on Strengthening Foundations, Advancing Standards: A Capability Building Series for Social Work Agencies on Quality Care and Case Management in Alternative Care (Luzon Cluster A) on Aug 5-8 at Somerset Central Salcedo, Makati City.

THE LAUGHING HOLY FAMILY

August 06. Thank you, LVF Director Vicky & Amb. Joey Cuisia for gifting us the Laughing Holy Family painting. We love it! Their laughter will move us to be a happy community.

BUWAN NG WIKA

LVF MALIHAO
August 27. The faculty and staff, along with students and trainees, came together to celebrate “Araw ng Wika” as part of the month-long “Buwan ng Wika” festivities at the school gymnasium. The event was filled with a variety of engaging activities that highlighted the theme of “Araw ng Wika,” showcasing the rich cultural heritage and language of the Philippines. Participants took part in different types of speeches, vibrant poster-making contests, and traditional Filipino native games, creating a lively and educational atmosphere. The celebration was skillfully organized and led by Ms. Gina G. Inson, with John Mark Bazan and Ellaine Jill Apil serving as the Masters of Ceremony, guiding the event smoothly and keeping the audience entertained throughout the day.

LVF CUBAO, QC

The LVF Cubao, Quezon City, also commemorated the Buwan ng Wika through meaningful declamation pieces given life by the girls, a Filipino song called ‘Saranggola ni Pepe’ (Pepe’s Kite), and ‘Tsuper ng Aking Buhay’ (Driver of My Life). The event successfully fostered pride in Filipino culture and language among the entire school community.

CAREER PATHING

Aug. 01. To help plan and map out their futures, the girls at LVF met with social worker Ms. Josielyn Hugo. The session began with a dialogue about their progress, the support that has helped them, and the challenges they’ve faced.

MUSIC IN MOTION

Aug. 09. We are grateful to the LVF Board of Directors, Mrs. Vicky Cuisia, for inviting the LVF community to watch the Music in Motion held at De La Salle University – Taft. Unlike a book or a film that uses words and dialogue, dance uses a unique vocabulary of movement. A dancer’s posture, gestures, and facial expressions conveyed a wide range of emotions—from joy and love to sorrow and anger. The audience wowed, gasped, and was thrilled as the stories unfolded through their graceful dance. It was a meaningful, exciting experience, especially when the girls had the opportunity to sing with the one and only Mr. Jose Mari Chan! 

LVF CUBAO, QC WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

SUNDAY CATECHESIS
Sr. Phebe Lacse, FMA, and LVF social worker Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo facilitated the Sunday catechism at Cavite and Taguig, a day filled with learning, prayer, and sharing. In his book Companion of the Young, Don Bosco described that “the age of youth, according to Don Bosco, is the ‘key to one’s whole earthly existence’ [8], a responsible and constructive age, and a happy occasion for entering into a special relationship with God and for undertaking a virtuous and happy journey to holiness (Servite Domino in laetitia).”

SOLIDARITYSERYE

“Let us be what we are and be that well, in order to bring honor to the Master Craftsman whose handiwork we are.” – St. Francis de Sales. All in life is to be done through LOVE and nothing through force. Love in this case is an act of the will, not a sentiment of the heart. It is seeing good in another and choosing and acting to make that goodness grow. We should accentuate the positive rather than condemn the negative. We should assume a positive stance towards everyone. “The measure of our love is to love without measure.” As Salesians, we are called to more than simply respond to the challenges of the world. We are called to act in the name of the Gospel, affirming the God-given dignity of every person. 

PASWI COP

Every Wednesday, at 8:00 in the evening, the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI) gathered on an online prayer, Circle of Prayer (COP), via Zoom videoconferencing. It is a perfect time to reflect and rest on the days that have gone by and to be recharged for the remaining days. This is co-hosted by PASWI’s different local chapters and facilitated by PASWI President, Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA and PASWI Executive Director, Ma’am Eva Ponce de Leon.

by mir321

June 2025 News

JUNE’s JOY AND JUBILEE

The LVF’s entire month of June was filled with a palpable sense of joy and jubilation as the LVF Macarascas, Palawan, celebrated the moving-up and recognition of the scholars and welcomed the final batch of agriculture OJT students, and most especially the on-the-spot hiring of the trainees in LVWDTC, Malihao Negros Occidental. Moreover, the preparation for the new school year was filled with excitement for both parents and learners at the LVF Training Centers.           

Three of the LVF Staff actively participated in the recent National Youth Day held in Caceres, Naga City, Bicol, where thousands of young people from all over the Philippines, coming from different dioceses and congregations, gathered for a meaningful encounter and journeyed together with Christ as a Church. This is doubly meaningful as the Church celebrates the Year of Jubilee!
Indeed, June is not just a month. It is a joyful tribute to what was and a hopeful promise for what will be.

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC. -PALAWAN CELEBRATES MOVING-UP AND RECOGNITION RITES

LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC.-PALAWAN WELCOMES FINAL BATCH OF AGRICULTURE OJT STUDENTS

PARENTS JOIN TWO-DAY GULPIMANO FOR PROJECT “SAMPAYAN” AND BRIGADA ESKWELA KICK-OFF

ANNUAL MEDICAL AND DENTAL EXAMINATION

LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION- PALAWAN STAFF CONDUCTS HOME VISITS

2ND QUARTER ABSNET MEETING – PALAWAN CLUSTER

PARENTS AND GUARDIANS COMPLETED THE PROJECT “SAMPAYAN” AND CONSTRUCTED A SHOWER ROOM PATHWAY

SR. LEILANI BARAǸAO, FMA, ARRIVES AT LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION TO BEGIN HER NEW MISSION

PARENTS AND GUARDIANS HOLD A GULPIMANO FOR FACILITY CLEAN-UP AHEAD OF PROJECT BLESSING

LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC. -PALAWAN HOLDS BLESSING CEREMONY FOR SCHOOL YEAR 2024–2025 PROJECTS

LVF MALIHAO, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

ALTER TO FIT INTERVIEW
CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT TRAINING
SALESIAN MANAGEMENT FOR EDUCATORS
START OF SCHOOL YEAR 2025-2026
BRIDGE PROGRAM FOR ENGLISH AND MATHEMATICS
CLEAN-UP DRIVE
HOME VISITATION FOR FINALIZATION OF INCOMING GRADE 12 STUDENTS
PARENTS’ ORIENTATION FOR SCHOOL YEAR 2025-2026
MASS TO HOLY TRINITY
GASTPE REGIONAL ORIENTATION CONFERENCE ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ESC, TSS, AND SHS VOUCHER PROGRAM IN              SY 2025-2026
SYM ORIENTATION FOR SCHOOL YEAR 2025- 2026

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

SYM JOURNEY AND NATIONAL YOUTH DAY EXPERIENCE

LVF TVET ENROLLMENT 2025

FILIPINO SOCIAL WORKERS DAY

LVF YEARLY FLU VAX JAB

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

SUNDAY CATECHESIS
SOLIDARITYSERYE
PASWI COP

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC. -PALAWAN CELEBRATES MOVING-UP AND RECOGNITION RITES

June 07. With joyful hearts and proud spirits, the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. -Palawan held its Moving-Up Ceremony for YS 11 and Recognition Rites for YS 8 to YS 10. The event marked a significant milestone for the learners and their families as they celebrated their academic achievements and personal growth.

The celebration began with a community Mass, gathering the learners, staff, families, and guests in thanksgiving. The formal program commenced at 10:00 a.m., featuring a heartfelt Welcome Remarks from Sr. Rosalia A. Panganiban, FMA, the foundation’s Community Animator/ Program Manager.

The highlight of the event was the distribution of awards and certificates, which recognized the hard work, perseverance, and accomplishments of learners across all levels. The ceremony also included a touching testimony from a past pupil, who shared how the foundation impacted her life, followed by a symbolic Past Pupil Pledge, a reminder of the lifelong values instilled by the foundation.

Adding to the emotional depth of the program was a Message of Gratitude delivered by one of the YS 11 completers, expressing thanks to the foundation personnel and parents for their unwavering support throughout the years. The event concluded with a joyful recessional and a community gathering, where everyone shared in a bring-and-share meal, reinforcing the spirit of unity that the Laura Vicuna Foundation continuously fosters. The foundation congratulates all learners on their achievements. It extends its gratitude to the parents and partners who continue to journey with the children on their path to a brighter future.

LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC.-PALAWAN WELCOMES FINAL BATCH OF AGRICULTURE OJT STUDENTS

June 30. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. warmly welcomed the final batch of On-the-Job Trainees (OJT) from the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, 1st Year College. The arrival of the new trainees marks a critical phase in their academic journey as they begin hands-on learning at the farm facility. The orientation was facilitated by the dedicated farm staff, who introduced the students to the daily operations and responsibilities they would encounter throughout their stay. This was followed by an inspiring “Good Day” talk delivered by Sr. Rosalia Panganiban, FMA, who welcomed the students and encouraged them to embrace the learning opportunity with enthusiasm and commitment. In line with the foundation’s commitment to safeguarding children and youth, the Social Worker presented the Child Protection Policy. The trainees were given a comprehensive overview of the standards and procedures to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all.

PARENTS JOIN TWO-DAY GULPIMANO FOR PROJECT “SAMPAYAN” AND BRIGADA ESKWELA KICK-OFF

June 03 & 04. The parents of the students under the Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. – Palawan actively participated in a two-day Gulpimano (community service) event to launch and begin the construction of Project “Sampayan”- a designated drying area. With strong cooperation and teamwork, the parents dedicated their time and energy to completing the initial stages of the project. Their effort not only highlighted their commitment to the foundation but also reflected their support for their children’s well-being. The activity also served as an early Brigada Eskwela for incoming learners who will begin their formal education at the center. It was a meaningful start to the school year, strengthening community involvement and promoting a culture of bayanihan. The Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. extends its appreciation to all the parents who contributed to this collective effort and looks forward to more collaborative projects that support holistic child development.

ANNUAL MEDICAL AND DENTAL EXAMINATION

June 05. In response to a coordinated request with the City Health Office of Puerto Princesa, the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc., Palawan successfully conducted its Annual Medical and Dental Examination. A dedicated medical team visited the facility to provide health services to the children and staff. All underwent thorough medical and dental check-ups to assess their overall health and well-being. After the examinations, the medical professionals offered appropriate medical advice and prescribed necessary medications based on their findings. In addition to the check-ups, the team generously distributed vitamins and essential medicines to address identified health needs. The initiative ensures that everyone in the facility remains in good health and is prepared for the upcoming school year’s activities. The Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc.- Palawan, expresses its heartfelt gratitude to the City Health Office and the medical team for their continued support and partnership in promoting health and wellness within the community.

LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION- PALAWAN STAFF CONDUCTS HOME VISITS

June 09-10. As part of its ongoing commitment to holistic child care and development, the staff of Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc., including the Social Worker and the Teacher, conducted home visits on June 9–10, 2025, in Taytay, Palawan, for two enrolled learners. The home visit aimed to assess the well-being of the children in their home environment and to gain a deeper understanding of their living conditions and family dynamics. This initiative is a vital part of the foundation’s case management and child protection protocols, ensuring that each learner receives the appropriate support not only in the center but also within their own homes. Through the visits, the staff were able to build stronger relationships with the families, provide guidance, and explore possible areas where the foundation may offer further assistance. It also served as an opportunity to reinforce the partnership between the foundation and the parents in promoting the safety, education, and holistic growth of every child. The Laura Vicuna Foundation remains dedicated to reaching out beyond its walls to ensure that no child is left behind at school, at home, and in life.

2ND QUARTER ABSNET MEETING – PALAWAN CLUSTER

June 13. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc.- Palawan, represented by its Social Worker and Agency Head, actively participated in the 2nd Quarter ABSNET (Area-Based Standards Network) Meeting – Palawan Cluster, held at Aloha House, Inc., Barangay Sta. Monica, Puerto Princesa City. The meeting focused on important matters concerning agency accreditation, standards compliance, and updates related to the implementation of DSWD guidelines and policies. One of the key agenda items was voting on the location of the next quarterly meeting, as well as preparations for the upcoming cluster election of officers. The meeting was formally adjourned at exactly 2:00 p.m., with shared understanding and unified direction among participating organizations. The Laura Vicuna Foundation continues to uphold its commitment to excellence and compliance in social welfare services by actively participating in collaborative efforts, such as the ABSNET meetings.

PARENTS AND GUARDIANS COMPLETED THE PROJECT “SAMPAYAN” AND CONSTRUCTED A SHOWER ROOM PATHWAY

June 21. The parents and guardians of learners at Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. completed the “Sampayan” project, a designated drying area that supports the daily needs of children at the center. In addition to this, the parents also constructed a shower room pathway to ensure that learners have a safe, clean, and comfortable access to the bathing facilities. The improvement of this area reflects the parents’ active involvement and dedication to creating a nurturing and functional environment for their children. This initiative once again demonstrated the strong spirit of community cooperation and bayanihan, values that the foundation continues to promote not only among children but also among their families. The Laura Vicuna Foundation extends its heartfelt appreciation to all the parents and guardians who contributed their time, effort, and skills in making these projects a success. Together, we build not only structures but a true home of care, dignity, and support for every child.

SR. LEILANI BARAAO, FMA, ARRIVES AT LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION TO BEGIN HER NEW MISSION

June 25. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Palawan warmly welcomed Sr. Lanie, FMA, as she arrived at the center to begin her new mission in service to the children and the community. The entire LVF family looks forward to journeying with Sr. Lanie as she shares her gifts and passion in fulfilling her mission. Her arrival is both a blessing and a source of renewed inspiration for the staff, children, and families the foundation serves.

PARENTS AND GUARDIANS HOLD A GULPIMANO FOR FACILITY CLEAN-UP AHEAD OF PROJECT BLESSING

June 26. In preparation for the upcoming blessing of new projects, the parents and guardians of learners at Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. – Palawan, gathered for a Gulpimano, a community-led clean-up initiative within the foundation’s environment and surroundings. Demonstrating teamwork and dedication, the participants worked hand in hand to ensure that the entire facility was clean, organized, and presentable for the anticipated blessing ceremony. Areas around the center were thoroughly cleaned, reflecting the community’s shared sense of ownership, responsibility, and pride. The Laura Vicuna Foundation-Palawan extends its heartfelt gratitude to all parents and guardians for their active involvement and generous contributions of time and effort. Their cooperation plays a vital role in sustaining a positive and caring environment for every child under the foundation’s care.

LAURA VICUÑA FOUNDATION INC. -PALAWAN HOLDS BLESSING CEREMONY FOR SCHOOL YEAR 2024–2025 PROJECTS

June 27. To mark the beginning of a new academic year filled with hope and purpose, the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. – Palawan, held a blessing ceremony for its projects and programs lined up for the 2024–2025 school year. The event took place within the foundation’s premises and was attended by the children, staff, and an invited priest who led the prayer and blessing rites. It was a moment of unity and spiritual reflection as the foundation sought divine guidance, protection, and success for the months ahead. The blessing served not only to launch the academic year formally but also to reinforce the community’s shared commitment to building a nurturing and faith-centered environment. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc.- Palawan expresses its profound gratitude to all who participated in the ceremony and looks forward to another school year filled with growth, learning, and God’s grace.

LVF MALIHAO, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

ALTER TO FIT INTERVIEW
June 4 & 5. A total of twenty-two (22) students were successfully hired on the spot during the comprehensive two-day interview session with selected Senior High School and Technical-Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students as part of their preparatory process for the upcoming on-the-job training (OJT) program with Ms. Salvacion Cruz, the Operations Manager of Alter to Fit.  This interview served as one of the essential preliminary requirements for students, ensuring their readiness and qualification for industry immersion, a mandatory component of their academic curriculum before graduation. This on-the-spot hiring marked a significant milestone in the trainees’ transition from academic learning to practical workplace experience, affirming the effectiveness of the school’s industry linkage efforts.

CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT TRAINING

June 05. Ma’am Josephine T. Tamba conducted a one-day training entitled “Classroom Management Training” to the faculty and staff at LV Hall. The training aimed to enable educators to create a positive, structured, and effective learning environment. It focuses on strategies, tools, and techniques to maintain discipline, engage students, and maximize instructional time.

SALESIAN MANAGEMENT FOR EDUCATORS

June 13. Miss Jonalyn A. Ayola successfully conducted a one-day training seminar entitled “Salesian Management for Educators” at the LV Hall. The session was attended by the faculty and staff and was designed to enhance their understanding and application of the Salesian educational approach within the classroom setting. The primary objective of the training was to promote and instill the principles of Salesian pedagogy—particularly its emphasis on reason, religion, and loving-kindness—as a framework for fostering a more holistic, compassionate, and values-driven learning environment. This initiative aligns with the institution’s ongoing commitment to nurturing not only academic excellence but also character formation grounded in the Salesian tradition.

START OF SCHOOL YEAR 2025-2026

June 16. Sr. Maria Guia S. Asparen, FMA, Sr. Josefina D.C. Oliveros, FMA, and Sr. Naida R. Alcaraz, FMA, along with the faculty, staff, and school personnel, warmly welcomed the students to their new academic home for the 2025–2026 school year during an opening assembly held at the school gymnasium. The event marked the official start of the school year and was highlighted by the presentation of important school policies and academic guidelines. Mr. Darrenz M. Caberoy presented the school’s rules and regulations. At the same time, Mr. Rino N. Barrido provided an overview of the scholastic grading system to ensure that students are well-informed and prepared for the academic expectations ahead. A special part of the program was dedicated to the formal introduction and welcoming of Sr. Naida R. Alcaraz, FMA, as the new School Directress. The occasion was filled with a spirit of enthusiasm and unity as the entire school community came together to begin a new chapter, marked by hope, commitment, and a shared purpose.

BRIDGE PROGRAM FOR ENGLISH AND MATHEMATICS

June 17 – 20. A series of Bridge Programs was conducted to help students enhance their foundational skills in preparation for the new academic year. During the first two days, Mr. Rino N. Barrido facilitated a Bridge Program in Mathematics for TVET students at the school gymnasium. Simultaneously, Mr. Darrenz M. Caberoy led a two-day Bridge Program in English for all Grade 12 students, which took place in Room 2. In parallel, Ms. Flora Mie M. Ellena also conducted a two-day English Bridge Program at the LV Hall, catering to another group of learners. On the third and fourth days of the program, Mr. Barrido continued his Mathematics Bridge Program, this time for the incoming Grade 11 students. At the same time, Ms. Ellena facilitated her English Bridge Program for the TVET students. Meanwhile, the Grade 12 students officially began their regular classes. These Bridge Programs were designed to strengthen the students’ core competencies—particularly in mathematical reasoning and English language proficiency—to ensure a smoother transition into the academic demands of the school year.

CLEAN-UP DRIVE

June 20. The entire Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. community actively participated in a cleanup drive held outside the school premises as part of its ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility and community engagement—the initiative aimed to promote environmental cleanliness and foster a sense of shared stewardship among students and staff. The activity was spearheaded by the School Directress, Sr. Ma. Guida S. Asparen, FMA, was conducted in collaboration with the faculty, Senior High School students, and Technical-Vocational Instruction (TVI) students. The clean-up drives not only emphasized the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy environment but also reinforced the value of collective action in serving the wider community.

HOME VISITATION FOR FINALIZATION OF INCOMING GRADE 12 STUDENTS

June 20. Ms. Bayles, Ms. Ondon, and Ms. Tacud conducted an extensive home visitation activity covering selected Grade 12 students residing in the areas of Alacaygan to Consing, E.B. Magalona. This initiative was undertaken as part of the school’s ongoing commitment to supporting and developing learners. The primary objective of the visitation was to gather comprehensive updates regarding the students’ academic standing, attendance, overall well-being, and learning conditions at home. Through direct interaction with the students and their families, the team aimed to identify any challenges or concerns that may be affecting their educational engagement, as well as to strengthen the partnership between the school and the community in promoting student success. This activity also served as a means to reinforce the institution’s effort in ensuring that no learner is left behind, particularly those who may be at risk of academic or socio-emotional difficulties.

PARENTS’ ORIENTATION FOR SCHOOL YEAR 2025-2026

June 21. The school successfully conducted its first Parents’ Orientation for the upcoming School Year 2025–2026, held at the School Gymnasium, which was filled with eager and supportive parents ready to engage in their children’s educational journey. The program was graciously led by Sr. Ma. Guia S. Asparen, together with the dedicated faculty and staff, collectively extended a warm and heartfelt welcome to all parents as they formally entrusted their sons and daughters to what would now serve as their second home and learning environment for the year ahead. The orientation was thoughtfully organized to provide parents with a comprehensive overview of the school’s educational philosophy, institutional goals, core values, and expectations for both students and families, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the home and the school in nurturing academic excellence and character formation. As part of the program, the assigned faculty members delivered a detailed presentation on the school’s policies, rules, procedures, educational guidelines, disciplinary measures, and support services, ensuring that all attendees were fully informed and aligned with the standards and systems in place. 

MASS TO HOLY TRINITY

Holy Mass was celebrated at the School Gymnasium to invoke the guidance of the Holy Spirit for the 2025-2026 school year. The Mass was officiated by Fr. Jimmy Carmona, SDB, together with Sr. Ma. Guia S. Asparen, FMA, Sr. Josefina D. Oliveros, FMA, members of the faculty and staff, and the student body. This celebration also marked the formal start of the 2024-2025 school year. The presence of the Holy Spirit was highlighted as a profound assurance that the mission undertaken by both students and educators is not merely a human endeavor, but truly the work of God—a continuation of Jesus’ saving mission. The event underscored the community’s commitment to begin the new academic year under the inspiration and guidance of the Holy Spirit, entrusting all plans and activities to God’s providence.

GASTPE REGIONAL ORIENTATION CONFERENCE ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ESC, TSS, AND SHS VOUCHER PROGRAM IN     SY 2025-2026

June 26. Miss Aileen M. Ondon attended the one-day GASTPE Regional Orientation Conference on the Implementation of the Education Service Contracting (ESC), Teachers’ Salary Subsidy (TSS), and Senior High School (SHS) Voucher Program for School Year 2025–2026, which was held at the University of San Agustin in Iloilo City and organized by the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC) in collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd). The conference provided a comprehensive platform to inform, guide, and equip private school administrators, program coordinators, and stakeholders with the latest updates, policy revisions, procedural guidelines, and implementation protocols for the effective and transparent delivery of the GASTPE programs. It also emphasized the importance of accurate documentation, timely billing, compliance with monitoring standards, and accountability in fund utilization, while fostering a deeper understanding of the shared roles and responsibilities of participating institutions in ensuring that government educational subsidies reach qualified beneficiaries efficiently and with integrity. Through this engagement, Miss Ondon gained valuable insights and practical knowledge that would contribute significantly to the school’s compliance, strategic planning, and execution of its responsibilities under the ESC, TSS, and SHS Voucher Program for the upcoming academic year.

SYM Orientation for School Year 2025- 2026

June 26. The Salesian Youth Ministry (SYM) was formally introduced and officially presented to the student body under the dynamic leadership of Sir Kenneth John P. Cornelio, accompanied by the dedicated team of SYM Animators, during a well-attended event held at the school gymnasium. The occasion was marked by a palpable atmosphere of excitement and enthusiasm, as students eagerly participated in a variety of thoughtfully planned, fun-filled, and engaging activities explicitly designed to foster teamwork, spiritual growth, and personal development. This vibrant gathering not only provided an opportunity for students to connect and interact in a lively and supportive environment but also served as a meaningful celebration of the core values and mission that underpin the Salesian Youth Ministry. Throughout the program, the spirit of camaraderie, faith, and service was evident, reinforcing the ministry’s pivotal role in nurturing the holistic growth of young people and strengthening the bonds within the Salesian community. The event successfully highlighted the ministry’s commitment to empowering students to become compassionate leaders and active contributors to both their school and society, embodying the true essence of the Salesian charism and mission.

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

SYM JOURNEY AND NATIONAL YOUTH DAY EXPERIENCE

June 7. Three LVF Staff Members, Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo, Ms. Samantha Lavado, and Ms. Vea Villarena, actively participated in the much-anticipated National Youth Day (NYD) celebration held in Caceres, Naga City, Bicol. This year’s theme is “Youth Empowerment for Nation Building.” It highlights the crucial role young people play in shaping the country’s present and future trajectories with faith, hope, and service. It was a week filled with joy, prayer, service, and unforgettable experiences that strengthened our faith and deepened our connection with one another as young pilgrims of hope. The National Youth Day is a special event celebrated by the Catholic Church to demonstrate its profound love for young people through tangible actions. This celebration brought together thousands of young people from all over the country for a meaningful encounter with Christ, the Church, and fellow believers.  

Before the official kick-off of the NYD, the group celebrated the Salesian Youth Movement (SYM) on June 8. The SYM itself is a global movement inspired by Saint John Bosco, aiming to form young people into “good Christians and upright citizens” through Salesian spirituality. In the Philippines, SYM is composed of three groups: (1) SYM-FIL – Representing the FMA (Salesian Sisters or Daughters of Mary Help of Christians) Philippine Province; (2) SYM-FIN – Philippine-North; (3) SYM-FIS – Philippine-South.  Delegates were welcomed by their foster families,  visited various parishes, and joined the vibrant procession of the Peñafrancia Parade in Naga. “It was an incredible moment and experience…to walk together with other young Catholics in devotion to Our Lady of Peñafrancia,” said Ms. Vea. “We also had a time for deep connection. Through formation workshops at Centro, we shared and listened to one another’s stories and reflections. These moments reminded us of the richness of our shared faith and the importance of unity among the youth,” she added.  One of the many significant encounters they had was immersing in the lives of the locals, especially those who were greatly affected by Typhoon Kristy in 2024. It was terrifying, traumatic, and life-threatening. Ms. Samantha shared that the Parish of Sr. Rose of Lima church became the residents’ refuge.  The June 10-14 event welcomed participants from 84 ecclesiastical territories and 22 Catholic youth organizations, according to Fr. Juan Pablo Carpio, archdiocesan catechetical director of the Archdiocese of Caceres. Carpio said that young people are not only the future of the Church and society, but they are the present. Ms. Vea expressed that “this whole journey was a blessing—our first-ever NYD experience. It opened our eyes and hearts to a deeper faith, gave us the chance to serve and connect with others, and allowed us to form new friendships and families.”  “We carry with us memories, lessons, and a renewed spirit to continue living out the SYM mission with joy.” Ms. Jessa added.

LVF TVET ENROLLMENT 2025

For the 2025 school year, Laura Vicuna TVET, QC, has received another scholarship grant from the Quezon City District. At present, we have twenty-five (25) enrollees for this school year. The LVF TVET QC is a TESDA-accredited training center that offers Bookkeeping with a National Certificate (NC) III.

FILIPINO SOCIAL WORKERS DAY

June 19.  Proclamation No. 1176 declares June 19 of every year as Filipino Social Workers’ Day. It stipulates that “The State recognizes the indispensable role of social workers and their invaluable contribution to nation-building, especially in the implementation of the social protection initiatives of the government”. 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 on June 19, 1965.

LVF YEARLY FLU VAX JAB

June 19. The LVF girls, Sisters, and Staff received flu vaccine jabs administered by the doctors from The Zen Institute. We are grateful to Dr. MJ Torres for providing us with the yearly flu vaccine jabs.

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

SUNDAY CATECHESIS 
This month of June, the Catholic Church celebrates significant events: The Ascension of Our Lord and Pentecost Sunday. The Feast of Pentecost occurs fifty days after Easter. It celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and the Blessed Mother in the Upper Room in Jerusalem and is often regarded as the birth of the Church. But it was not a new feast. It is deeply rooted in God’s previous covenant with the Israelites at the time of Moses. God’s promise to His people that “He will put My Spirit within you.” Sr. Sarah Grace Robas, FMA, facilitates weekly catechesis for the LVF Child Protection Clinic (CPC) children, young people, and parents every Sunday.

SOLIDARITYSERYE

The LVF Solidarityserye efforts continue to share its blessings with the CPC Communities! Breads, chocolate drinks, and thrift clothes were distributed after the catechesis. Thank you, Purple Oven, for the egg yolks; Breadtalk for the delicious bread; RFM Corp for the chocolate drinks; and the donors of our thrift clothes.

PASWI COP

The Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI) continue to give space for social workers through the Circle of Prayer (COP) to be silent in prayer, reflect on the Word of God, and shared how God’s presence provided inner peace, guidance, and a sense of purpose to the lives of the Filipino social workers. Through COP, we talk to Him in prayer and hear from Him through Scripture. This friendship transforms us from the inside out. With God at the center of their lives, the services they provide reflect care, compassion, and love that endures.

The Holy Spirit also produces His fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

As we draw near to God in prayer, study His Word, and obey His commandments, we experience His amazing love and gain an eternal perspective that transcends our temporary problems and struggles. This gives us unwavering hope and confidence to persevere, even in the most challenging times.

As we align our will with His purposes, we gain a profound sense of belonging and destiny.2

This COP is co-hosted by various PASWI local chapters, facilitated by Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, FMA (PASWI National President) and PASWI E.D Eva Ponce de Leon.

by mir321

April 2025 News

APRIL’S ECHOES: THE SACRED AND THE CELEBRATORY

April was marked by the deep personal and communal journey through Lent and the glorious celebration of Easter’s triumph over darkness. The LVF Educating Communities joined in this meaningful Season through recollection of students and staff, sacrament of penance and receiving the sacrament of initiation, actively joining various activities in the church.

Adding to this vibrant mix were the joyous sounds of graduation marches as the Laura Vicuna Women Development Training Center (LVWDTC) in Malihao held its Grade 12 Graduation Ceremony, the proud smiles of graduates, and the hopeful anticipation of their futures. We revisit the key religious insights shared and the memorable moments of academic achievement that defined our April, allowing us to reflect on the sacred foundations that often underpin our greatest celebrations.

It is a month that encompasses spiritual reflection and forward-looking joy and accomplishment.

LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS CITY, NEG. OCC.
GRADE 12 STUDENTS’ GRADUATION CEREMONY
SIKARAN TRAINING – ADINO EZNITE COMBAT GRADUATION
YOUTH ENCOUNTER OF TVET TRAINEES
LVWDTC EDUCATING COMMUNITY GRATITUDE DAY
BLOODLETTING DONATION DRIVE

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN
RECEIVING THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM: BECOMING A CERTIFIED CHILD OF GOD
PALM SUNDAY PREPARATION
THE BARANGAY MACARASCAS FOUNDATION DAY
JOINING THE SALESIAN WORLD FEAST OF GRATITUDE

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
CHILDREN’S RIGHTS IN THE MEDIA AND RECREATION WEEK
CHILDREN’S RIGHT TO ACCESS JUSTICE: AN ONLINE REGIONAL CONSULTATION

SALESIAN COMMUNITIES’ ACTIVITIES
FMA-FIL PROVINCIAL VISIT: CUBAO & PALAWAN
LVF LENTEN RECOLLECTION

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
SUNDAY CATECHESIS
SOLIDARITYSERYE
PASWI COP

GRADE 12 STUDENTS’ GRADUATION CEREMONY

April 15. Fifty-four Grade 12 students proudly celebrated the successful completion of their Senior High School journey during the Graduation Ceremony held on April 15, 2025. Guided by the theme “Henerasyon ng Pagkakaisa: Kaagapay sa Bagong Pilipinas,” the event emphasized unity and purpose as the graduates prepare for the next chapter of their lives. The ceremony began with a Baccalaureate Mass presided over by Fr. Rafael Baja, whose meaningful homily inspired reflection and gratitude. The program was filled with joy and emotion as students received academic, service, and special awards, recognizing their dedication and achievements. Heartfelt messages from Ms. Mary Ann Ballados, our guest speaker, and a proud alumna of LVF Malihao, and the presence of Ms. Agnes Peñas, Education Program Supervisor, added inspiration to an already memorable occasion. The event was a true celebration of perseverance, growth, and the bright future ahead.

LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS CITY, NEG. OCC.

SIKARAN TRAINING – ADINO EZNITE COMBAT GRADUATION
April 10. The Grade 11 students and TVET trainees successfully concluded their Sikaran Training – Adino Eznite Combat on April 10, 2025. The training program, which ran from February to April 2025, provided the participants with valuable skills in self-defense and discipline.
 
The graduation ceremony was made more memorable by the presence of Master Vincent Roa, who served as the guest speaker and witness to the accomplishments of the trainees. This milestone was especially remarkable for the 151 participants, as they not only completed the program with dedication but also gained practical skills that will serve them well in the future.

YOUTH ENCOUNTER OF TVET TRAINEES

A remarkable opportunity was given to the trainees to deepen their faith and support their personal growth through a meaningful 3-day Youth Encounter. The event was facilitated by eight dedicated faculty and staff members of LVF Malihao, who, despite their busy schedules, made time to guide the trainees in this spiritual journey.
 
Due to the large number of participants, the trainees were divided into two groups, allowing everyone the space and atmosphere needed for a more intimate and reflective encounter with the Lord. This experience served as a valuable moment for renewal, connection, and spiritual enrichment.

LVWDTC EDUCATING COMMUNITY GRATITUDE DAY

The Educating Community of LVF Malihao joyfully celebrated Gratitude Day in honor of Sr. Ma. Guia S. Asparen, FMA, our beloved School Directress. This year’s celebration was especially meaningful as it marked her sixth year of dedicated, compassionate, and inspiring service to the LVF Malihao community.

The event carried the heartfelt theme, “Kindness and Generosity is the True Magic of Gratitude,” which was beautifully portrayed through a Cinderella-inspired skit performed by students and trainees dressed as princes and princesses. The program was a fitting tribute to Sr. Ma. Guia’s unwavering commitment, gentle leadership, and nurturing spirit. All sectors of the community expressed their deep appreciation and admiration for her, with touching video messages from past pupils, some of whom were also present to personally share their gratitude and well wishes.

Truly, Sr. Ma. Guia has touched countless lives, and the community is immensely blessed and thankful for the gift of her presence.

BLOODLETTING DONATION DRIVE

April 30. The Laura Vicuña Women Development and Training Center (LVWDTC) recently held a successful bloodletting activity on its campus, demonstrating our strong commitment to community service and saving lives.

With the support of medical professionals from The Philippine Red Cross Negros Occidental Bacolod City Chapter, the school’s multi-purpose hall was transformed into a safe and efficient blood donation center. Students, teachers, past pupils, family members, and friends participated in the activity, driven by the desire to contribute to the local blood supply and help those in need.

The bloodletting activity aimed to raise awareness about the importance of voluntary blood donation and its impact on saving lives, especially for patients undergoing medical treatments, surgeries, or those with medical conditions requiring blood transfusions.

We express our gratitude to the whole school community and past pupils of LVWDTC and St. Mary Mazzarello School Batch 2000 for their support in this first Blood Letting Activity, which is significant in ensuring a stable and sufficient blood supply for local hospitals and patients. This activity also instilled a sense of civic responsibility and compassion among the students and trainees, reinforcing the school’s values of service and social awareness.

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

RECEIVING THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM: BECOMING A CERTIFIED CHILD OF GOD
April 19. One resident-learner and one staff member of LVF Macarascas, Palawan received the Sacrament of Baptism, officiated by Rev. Fr Raphael Euricho A. Maralit, OSJ, during the Black Saturday at San Ezekiel Moreno Parish. The community also joined the easter vigil in the church.

Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua), and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism, we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church, and made sharers in her mission: “Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word.” (Vatican)

Baptism is not just a mere ritual or symbol but rather a significant act of initiation that marks one’s entry into the Christian community. It is through baptism that we receive salvation and become members of the Church; thus, it holds immense importance in our faith.

PALM SUNDAY PREPARATION

April 12. The resident learners of the LVF Macarascas, Palawan, gathered to make Palaspas in preparation for Palm Sunday. The community attended the holy mass at San Ezekiel Moreno Parish of Barangay Macarascas, Puerto Princesa City. This marks the beginning of Holy Week and serves as a reminder to welcome Jesus into our hearts.

When Jesus entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey, the crowd laid palms before Him and shouted, “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” (John 12:13). They recognized in Him the fulfillment of ancient prophecies—a Messiah who would bring salvation. The palm, then, became a sign of joyful welcome and profound expectation.

THE BARANGAY MACARASCAS FOUNDATION DAY

April 26. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc.- Palawan community joined the 67th Founding Anniversary of Barangay Macarascas, Puerto Princesa City, held at the Macarascas Gymnasium. The learners showcased their talents with a presentation number, which the audience enjoyed.

 Macarascas is a barangay in the city of Puerto Princesa on the island of Palawan.

JOINING THE SALESIAN WORLD FEAST OF GRATITUDE

April 27. This day, the community attended the Holy Eucharist at San Ezekiel Moreno Parish and celebrated the World Feast of Gratitude 2025. The community expresses their gratitude and filial affection to the dearest Mother Chiara Cazzuola through offering various elements as of sign of love and fidelity.The community offered Globe, Candles as symbols of fire, Cross, Picture of Mary, and flowers. After the Holy Eucharist, the community has a short activity and games. The community has a very great time celebrating the World Feast of Gratitude to express a ‘choral thanks’ to Mother Chiara, who, with generous dedication and wisdom, guides the Institute in the concreteness of daily giving.

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

CHILDREN’S RIGHTS IN MEDIA AND RECREATION WEEK
Apr. 21-24. LVF Child Advocate Amy actively participated in the 4-day Children’s Rights in Media and Recreation Week held at the B Hotel, Quezon City. The event, organized by the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) in partnership with the Consuelo Zobel Alger Foundation, included an Orientation on the Guidelines in the Media Reporting/Coverage of Children and the Game-Makers Workshop on Children’s Rights. Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo accompanied Amy as an adult support during the activity.

The Guidelines in the Media Reporting/Coverage of Children were enriched by the CWC in 2025, together with children and stakeholders from the media, government, and non-government organizations. The Orientation aims to promote ethical and responsible media reportage of children by equipping both children and adults with the knowledge and skills to recognize and advocate for child-sensitive reporting. Furthermore, the event seeks to ensure that children’s rights, dignity, and safety are upheld in media coverage while fostering their best interests at all times.

Meanwhile, the Game-Makers Workshop on Children’s Rights aims to promote children’s right to play and participate by providing a fun, inclusive, and educational space where children can collaborate, share their experiences, and transform their ideas into a meaningful play activity.

Particularly, the workshop intends to produce a child-created game that not only entertains but also serves as a tool for raising awareness and advocating for children’s rights according to the CWC.

CHILDREN’S RIGHT TO ACCESS JUSTICE: AN ONLINE REGIONAL CONSULTATION

April 22. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc., joined the Online Regional Consultation on Children’s Right To Access to Justice and an effective remedy, organized by the Grassroots Justice Network and UNICEF.

The Committee on the Rights of the Child is currently developing General Comment No. 27, on children’s right to access to justice and an effective remedy. This initiative aims to provide clear and authoritative guidance to States on ensuring these rights for all children. Given the essential role of grassroots justice defenders in this effort, we are organizing two dedicated consultations—one for the Asia region and another for Africa—to gather insights from those working directly with children at the community level.

This consultation seeks to gather insights from grassroots justice defenders on how to strengthen access to justice for children, particularly those from marginalized communities. Specifically, it aims to: a.) Gather feedback on the draft General Comment and recommendations for improvement; b.) Clarify the key roles and responsibilities of grassroots actors in ensuring justice and effective remedies for children; c.) Analyze challenges specific to children’s access to justice from a grassroots perspective and, d.) Identify inspiring practices that can inform general guidance of interest applicable across different contexts and situations.

Ms. Josielyn Hugo, LVF Social Worker, actively engaged in the discussion, sharing LVF’s role in child protection in the Philippines.

SALESIAN COMMUNITIES’ ACTIVITIES

FMA-FIL PROVINCIAL VISIT: CUBAO & PALAWAN
April 5-9. PALAWAN. Sr. Tita Padron, FMA, the FMA-Fil provincial superior, visited the LVF Macarascas, Palawan community. During her visit, Ms. Rachel, a social worker, reflected that “her guidance has illuminated our path, and her fraternal closeness has uplifted our spirits. We are deeply touched by the time she shared with us, her listening heart, and encouraging counsel.”  She left behind a cherished memory and strengthened the community, making it more united in purpose and love.  We offer our prayers for her well-being, the success of her mission, and the fulfillment of her intentions for the province.

April 22. QUEZON CITY. Our dear Sr. Tita, you are Mary’s presence among us, and we welcome you in our midst. Welcome to our home and into our hearts. Welcome to our home and into our hearts. With gratitude, we express our deep love and appreciation for your testimonies of faith, hope, compassion, and unwavering dedication to your role and love for the Institute. Your tireless efforts in the service of animation, your commitment to education, and your nurturing guidance inspire us to also commit to the call of the daily. May you continue to shine as a beacon of hope, finding your strength in God alone. With our lady, we entrust your visit, and so we sing.

LVF LENTEN RECOLLECTION

April 16. PALAWAN. The learners, together with the staff of Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc., joined the recollection administered by Rev. Fr. Danilo A. Nobis, OSJ, held at San Ezekiel Moreno Parish, 9:00 in the morning. The recollection is all about the Lenten Season, enabling us to have spiritual reflection, renewal, and the time to deepen our relationship with God. The community gained a lot of insights, knowledge, and changed perspectives.

April 16. QUEZON CITY. As we prepare ourselves for the LORD’s PASCHAL MYSTERY, LVF staff gathered in a solemn recollection, reflecting on how Jesus Christ revealed his Mercy and Love to us through humility and forgiveness. Sr. Phebe Lacse, FMA, facilitated the recollection, leaving everyone inspired to change for the better.

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

SUNDAY CATECHESIS
Christ is risen! These words capture the whole meaning of our existence, for we were not made for death but for life.

From the empty tomb in Jerusalem, we hear unexpected, good news: Jesus, who was crucified, “is not here, he has risen” (Lk 24:5). Jesus is not in the tomb; he is alive! (Pope Francis “Urbi et Orbi” Message)

As the LVF Community celebrate the Easter Sunday, Ms. Joy Hugo facilitated a Sunday catechism and a fun egg hunting activity. After which, there were sharing of bread, Choco Moo drink and fresh milk from RFM Corp.

His Holiness Pope Francis invites us all to hope anew and to revive our trust in others, including those who are different than ourselves, or who come from distant lands, bringing unfamiliar customs, ways of life, and ideas! … to renew our hope that peace is possible.

The Holy Father appeals that the principle of humanity never fails to be the hallmark of our daily actions. 

In the Lord’s Paschal Mystery, death and life contended in a stupendous struggle, but the Lord now lives forever (cf. Easter Sequence). He fills us with the certainty that we, too, are called to share in the life that knows no end, when the clash of arms and the rumble of death will be heard no more. Let us entrust ourselves to him, for he alone can make all things new (cf. Rev. 21:5)

SOLIDARITYSERYE

Our weekly Solidarityserye efforts continue to bring joy to our children in the Child Protection Clinic Communities. This month, we are blessed to receive fresh milk from RFM Corp. that LVF social workers Ms. Jessa and Ms. Joy distributed.We are also grateful to Breadtalk and Purple Oven for the bread shared with the weekly Sunday Catechesis participants.

PASWI COP

Social work and spirituality are increasingly recognized as interconnected aspects of human experience that can significantly influence well-being and the helping process. The demanding nature of social work can lead to burnout and compassion fatigue. A social worker’s spirituality can be a vital resource for their resilience, and the Circle of Prayer (COP) has become the social workers’ weekly prayer habit in the Philippines, organized by the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI). This month, the PASWI-COP prayer themes leaned towards the Lenten Season. It is a time for personal reflection, acknowledging shortcomings, and striving for spiritual renewal. Through prayer and reflection, social workers can draw strength and guidance from their spiritual practices, fostering resilience in the face of challenging work.

by mir321

November 2024 News

LVF NOVEMBEYOND THE BARRIERS: EMPOWERING OUR YOUTH FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

November is a month beyond barriers. It is a month of advocacy campaigns, special awareness days, and observances to celebrate children and young people and highlight their indivisible rights for survival, protection, development, and participation.

Whilst other countries celebrate Thanksgiving, LVF hosted a National Convention on #iamBRAVE (Buddies Reject Abuse, Violence, Trafficking, and Exploitation) joined by two thousand 2, 000 brave young students from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao held at the Coliseum of Victorias City, Negros Occidental. This national convention is a timely effort to counteract the critical issue that the country faces on child protection. This also coincides with the country’s National Children’s Month celebration and the start of the 18-day campaign to end violence against women and children.

November provides an opportunity for LVF Past Pupils (trainees and residents) to come home. It is a heartfelt gathering at LVF of those whose lives were touched and formed by the Salesians Sisters.

LVF is overcoming most, if not all, factors inhibiting the growth of our young people. We will do everything to empower them for a sustainable future

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

LVF #iamBRAVE NATIONAL CONVENTION 2024
TOGETHER, WE ARE BRAVE!
2024 LVF PAST PUPIL’S HOMECOMING: KWENTUHAN TAYO, NA PUNO NG PAG-ASA!
LVF JOINS THE 18-DAY CAMPAIGN TO END VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN!
LVF GIRLS LEAD THE SINGING OF THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL ANTHEM!
MAINSTREAMING CHILDREN’S AGENDA WITH ACADEME & PRACTITIONERS OF SOCIAL WORK
DOKYUBATA NATIONAL AWARDING 2024
NATIONAL COMMITTEE ON CHILD AND YOUTH PARTICIPATION (NCCYP) FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLANNING WORKSHOP
LVF WAS AWARDED ONE OF THE OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP AWARDS!
PRAYER FOR OUR DECEASED SISTERS


LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

TRAINING INDUCTION PROGRAM FOR ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION NC II
 ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRAINING SESSION
LET’S TALK ABOUT HEALTH & WELL-BEING
NATIONAL CHILDREN’S MONTH 2024
TWO-DAY EVALUATION WITN TECHNICAL VOCATIONAL INSTITUTION OF MOTHER MORANO EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION 
DSWD AUDIT VISIT
SR. LYN’S INSTALLATION AS THE FIRST ANIMATOR OF TAYTAY, PALAWAN!

LVF MALIHAO, NEG. OCC.

DON BOSCO MONDO PROJECT RESEARCH TEAM AUDIT/ VISIT
ISO ORIENTATION
LEADERS AND ANIMATORS’ FORMATION 2024
LVF BOARD MEETING, GCASH & TIKTOK MASTERCLASS WORKSHOP
NEPHILA WEB TECHNOLOGY, INC SITE VISIT
FIRST AID AND BASIC LIFE SUPPORT TRAINING

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
CATECHESIS
SOLIDARITYSERYE
PASWI COP

LVF #iamBRAVE NATIONAL CONVENTION 2024

On 15 November 2024, about two thousand young people from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao in the Philippines gathered at the Coliseum of Victories City, in Negros West, to participate in the National Convention I AM BRAVE organized by the Laura Vicuña Foundation of St. Mary Mazzarello Province (FIL) on the theme of child protection in the Philippines, on the occasion of the National Month of Childhood.

Choosing to be brave means choosing to support change. At its root, courage affirms a fundamental truth: safety is not a privilege but a human right. This is the spirit that animated the I AM BRAVE Convention.

Several studies from 2022 confirm that almost half a million Philippine children have been trafficked to produce sexual exploitation material (CSEM), putting the country at the crossroads of child pornography. The country ranks 7th globally in modern slavery, and in 2018, Palawan was labeled as a ‘back way’ to Malaysia for human trafficking. In addition, bullying in public schools has reached alarming levels, with the Philippines at the top of the PISA 2018 ranking.

The Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF), for 30 years, has undertaken significant projects to address these critical situations with the “Child Protection Clinic on Wheels” to support the prevention of child abuse and trafficking in Luzon and the Visayas archipelago. Sister Maria Victoria Santa Ana, FMA, Managing Director of the LVF, explained that the initiative aims to unite and empower young people to become advocates for protecting human dignity for themselves and their peers against all forms of abuse.

The speakers shared valuable content from different points of view, providing a complete key to reading the problem and the steps necessary to fight it. Fr. Marvin Labasan, according to the theological perspective, stressed the sacred responsibility of protecting the dignity of a person made in the image and likeness of God. From a human rights perspective, Sister Sarah Garcia, FMA, starting with her advocacy work in Geneva, highlighted the global imperative to safeguard human dignity. Karl Ballentes, from a gender perspective, emphasized the importance of equity and inclusion in building stronger communities. Andrea Muhlach, from a legal perspective, provided participants with knowledge of justice, privacy law, and legal remedies for abuse victims. Social worker Emy India shared her knowledge of local governance, while Joy Hugo explained the LVF’s mission and programs.

This extraordinary event marked the launch of the I AM BRAVE movement – in the presence of the LVF Board of Directors – Francisco Dizon; Ms. Vicky Cuisia and her husband, Ambassador Jose Cuisia; Mr. Eric and Ms. Bea Puno; Mr. Bledes Fores Legarda; Sister Teresita Padron and Sister Marivic P. Sta—Ana, FMA – to join nationally to promote a more respectful, welcoming, and safe world.

Sofia de Guzman explained how the #iamBRAVE movement can integrate with non-governmental organizations working for children and youth. A 2-minute video teaser, part of the program, allowed us to deepen the reality with which some young people are measured today.

Sr. Maria Victoria said that this national conference is just the beginning. The LVF has launched provincial and regional initiatives that will become national, and she hopes this initiative will reach other parts of the world.

Participants committed to becoming “Buddies” engaged allies who inspire and support the movement’s mission. With their voices, these young leaders bring hope and resilience, ensuring that the fight against exploitation and abuse will continue beyond this event.

Why the Buddies? Sister Maria Victoria replied, “Confessions of abuse usually take place with close friends, so we are mobilizing peers or friends to fight against abuse, violence, and exploitation, including trafficking.”

The round table, which included student leaders representing Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, was an important moment of the day. With their ideals and enthusiasm, they helped to outline feasible ways of supporting the movement’s goals.

Their words reaffirmed the shared responsibility to combat abuse, violence, and exploitation by drawing up a Manifesto:
“We, children, and young people participating in the IamBRAVE National Congress believe that we have the right to live safely and be protected from all forms of abuse and exploitation. We can help others through support and encouragement, and only we can help to remedy this problem.

We commit ourselves to uphold being brave (courageous) in words and through our actions, a living testimony that we support the spirit of courage in our community and engage ourselves in our context and society.

We will be companions who do not just listen but speak for those who cannot speak for themselves.

We are committed to formation and education so that we are equipped with the knowledge, disposition, and skills necessary to help our community.

We will be courageous in defending ourselves, others, and our community.”

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

TOGETHER, WE ARE BRAVE!
Four hundred eighty-one (481) students actively participated in the LVF #iamBRAVE session! From Iloilo down to Negros Occidental, our #iamBRAVE campaign is reaching places far and wide! Small they may seem, but a total of fifty-five (55) Grade 7 students of Tortosa Elementary School, Manapla, Negros Occidental; two hundred eighty (280) students from Holy Family High School in Bacolod City; and one hundred forty-six (146) students of St. Francis Of Assisi School Silay City facilitated by LVF Social Workers Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo, Ms. Josielyn Hugo, and Ms. Angie Mae Villaren. They commit to respecting others and being kind to one another.


When we protect our friends, we contribute to a safer and more supportive environment for everyone. We stand against bullying, discrimination, and any form of harm that threatens their physical or emotional well-being. Protecting our peers cultivates a strong sense of community. It reinforces the understanding that we are all interconnected and responsible for each other’s well-being. This shared responsibility strengthens social bonds and creates a more cohesive and supportive society. Protecting our friends teaches us to advocate for what is right, even when difficult. Together, #WeAreBRAVE.

2024 LVF PAST PUPIL’S HOMECOMING: KWENTUHAN TAYO, NA PUNO NG PAG-ASA!

Nov. 26. Around fifty (50) LVF Past Pupils gathered to celebrate the 34th Annual Homecoming. As members of the Salesian community, we cherish the term “Homecoming” to emphasize our ongoing connection to our coming home, where our dreams became more apparent, and to the people who became our kin. The LVF Past Pupils from Malihao, Palawan, and Sta join this annual celebration. Mesa, as they come together in our main building for this meaningful event. This homecoming is doubly meaningful for this coincides with our celebration of Christ the King Sunday, opening our activities with a holy mass led by Fr. Rey Paglinawan, who bestowed blessings upon all present. Sr. Ma. Victoria Sta. Ana, FMA, our devoted Managing Director, delivered an inspiring welcome message. She also highlighted the launch of the “#iamBRAVE” initiative this November in Negros, encouraging all past pupils to embrace bravery in their lives. In addition, Ms. Felina, the TVET adviser, and the LVF staff excitedly facilitated engaging games and raffles, ensuring a festive atmosphere for everyone. Join us as we celebrate our shared journey and the lasting impact of our community. Memories resurface in the familiar embrace of old surroundings – vivid snapshots of childhood laughter and family’s enduring love. In the shared laughter and heartfelt conversations, we find a renewed sense of belonging, reaffirming the bonds that tie us to others.  

LVF JOINS THE 18-DAY CAMPAIGN TO END VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN.

According to the Global Gender Gap 2024 Insight Report by the World Economic Forum (WEF), it will take 134 years to achieve full gender parity. This staggering number translates to five generations beyond the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5 target of achieving gender equality and empowerment of all women and girls (pcw.gov.ph).

LVF GIRLS LEAD THE SINGING OF THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL ANTHEM

Nov. 28. LVF at the National Children’s Month Culmination at SM North with our girls singing the Philippine National Anthem. National Children’s Month is a significant event in the Philippines that underscores the importance of investing in children. LVF also put up a booth to teach the participants the art of quilling, card making, and crocheting. Everyone became engrossed in weaving yarn threads for their crochet. Many were more inclined to make Christmas, happily showing their finished products. By celebrating this month, the country reaffirms its commitment to creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for all children, ensuring they can grow, learn, and thrive.  

MAINSTREAMING CHILDREN’S AGENDA WITH ACADEME & PRACTITIONERS OF SOCIAL WORK 

Nov. 29. Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, FMAꟷPASWI National Vice President, and LVF Managing Director shared programs on empowering children and youth on the Mainstreaming Children’s Agenda with Academe & Practitioners of Social Work forum spearheaded by Child Rights Coalition Asia and Plan International! The effective mainstreaming of children’s agenda demands a collaborative effort between academe and practitioners of social work. This synergy ensures that theoretical frameworks are translated into practical solutions addressing children’s multifaceted challenges.

DOKYUBATA NATIONAL AWARDING 2024

Nov. 30. The National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT) conducted the 2024 DokyuBata Video Documentary Contest with the theme ‘Alab ng Dokyu: Mga Isyu sa Kalinangan, Klima, Kalusugan, at Komunidad’ which illuminate the issues concerning cultural heritage, climate change, public health, and community dynamics through the lens of Filipino learners. This aims to promote and encourage the production of quality television contest that reflects the nuance and aspirations of Filipino learners, showcase child-friendly documentaries, and foster a unified narrative that enriches the Filipino family. After much review by the judges, the Best Documentary on Children’s Division goes to Tabon Alon; Young Adult Division -Tawid; Adult Division-Sino’t Saan were awarded winners during the National Awarding at the Heritage Hotel Manila. Present to award the winners were the National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT) Executive Director, Ms. Daisy Atienza; Chairman, Dr. Luis Gatmaitan; and Council Member, Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, FMA & Teacher Sally Lopez, Keynote Speaker Mr. Howie Severino, and other prestigious judges who are known documentarians.  Sr Marivic was the NCCT Council Member assigned to be part of the 2024 Board of Judges of the 104 documentaries submitted to NCCT. This video documentary is an annual contest of the NCCT, which began in 2017.

NATIONAL COMMITTEE ON CHILD AND YOUTH PARTICIPATION (NCCYP) FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLANNING WORKSHOP

Nov. 18-22.  The Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) spearheaded the NCCYP 5-Year Strategic Planning, focusing on CHILD PARTICIPATION composed of various government agencies, CSOs, and NGOs. The ‘consortium’ dove deeper into the issues and factors that inhibit Child Participation & Youth Participation (CYP) at the level of families, communities, and policies. Ms. Monsay, LVF representative, reiterated that incident/victimization of abuse, violence, and sexual exploitation in all settings should be included in the factors that inhibit child participation. The dialogue disclosed that Child Participation is the least prioritized among children’s rights, anchoring to its levels; most often, children were treated as tokens during for a, symposiums, and other activities. The ‘consortium’ shall follow this matrix when drafting the strategic planning.

ROADMAP TOWARDS NCCYP STRAT PLAN: 2025-2029
Vision & Mission ꟷ> Program Gap Analysis ꟷ> Theory of Change/Strat Framework ꟷ> ꟷ> Assumptions & Risks ꟷ> Change Strategiesꟷ> Results-Based M&E Matrixꟷ>Institutional Arrangement
Twenty-one (21) participants were divided into groups that will focus on four lenses:

  1. Policy/Legislation
  2. Research/Monitoring & Evaluation/ Data Management
  3. Programs, Capacity Building, Resource Sharing, Communication, Advocacy
  4. Operation, Sustainability, Coordination

Each group formulated an outcome and an output under these four lenses to achieve the desired change (each group’s outcome). The discussion among groups revealed issues on children and youth in the Philippines, with one study linking alcoholism to teenage pregnancy, showing that young people often get pregnant due to drunkenness. This collective effort hopes and envisions a society where children and young people are active contributors and lead to the development of the society and the country. A lot has been done, but there is still much to do.  

LVF WAS AWARDED ONE OF THE OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP AWARDS

Dec. 09. The Laura Vicuna Foundation was awarded the Outstanding Leadership Award. During the 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Aloha Hotel, Manila, it was a loyal National Council of Social Development (NCSD) member organization.

PRAYER FOR OUR DECEASED SISTERS

Nov. 12. The LVF community, Sisters, and girls visited the Manila Memorial Park in Sucat, Parañaque, to pray for the deceased, especially the deceased FMA Sisters. It is the community’s way to honor their lives of dedication to faith, service, and others. It is a way to acknowledge and appreciate their positive impact on the world.

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

TRAINING INDUCTION PROGRAM FOR ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION NC II
Nov. 5. The Training Induction Program for Organic Agriculture Production NC II officially commenced. A total of 33 trainees from various parts of Taytay participated in the program. The event was graced by distinguished visitors, including Ms. Maria Victoria Baaco, representing the Office of the Province. She took the opportunity to explain the various benefits of the scholarship offered to the program’s scholars. Sir Melchor Gabua, the Farm Administrator of the Apostolic Vicariate of Taytay, also attended the event. Along with Sr. Lyn Grace M. Palanca, FMA, and the dedicated staff, they took an active role in leading and facilitating the training program. The program, which aimed to provide hands-on knowledge and skills for organic agriculture production, was successfully carried out, with sessions covering the essentials of organic farming practices.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRAINING SESSION

Nov. 10. The two-hour entrepreneurship training session at the Training Session on Vicariate of Taytay (AVT) focused on practical skills and knowledge applicable to the farmers’ immediate needs. The curriculum included modules on essential business planning, covering market analysis, identifying target customers, and developing a simple business plan tailored for agricultural products. Emphasis was placed on cost management and pricing strategies, equipping the farmers with the tools to calculate production costs and set profitable prices for their goods. Finally, the session incorporated a segment on simple marketing and sales techniques, including strategies for reaching local markets and building customer relationships. The training aimed to empower the farmers to improve their business acumen and increase the profitability of their farming ventures.

LET’S TALK ABOUT HEALTH & WELL-BEING

On Nov. 14, Sr. Nancy, FMA, conducted the informative and valuable sex education session. The information shared was helpful and presented respectfully and sensitively. The session provided a safe space to ask questions and learn about important topics related to sexual health and well-being.

NATIONAL CHILDREN’S MONTH 2024

Nov. 14. Today marked a significant day in our commitment to child welfare in our celebration of Children’s Month with the powerful theme: “Break the Prevalence, End the Violence, Protecting Children, and Creating a Safe Philippines.” The event was a resounding success, filled with activities designed to raise awareness about the critical issues facing children in our nation. A short TV presentation on child safety and protection was put to the test during the Quiz Bee! The day was a testament to our collective dedication to fostering a nurturing and secure environment for the young generation.

TWO-DAY EVALUATION WITN TECHNICAL VOCATIONAL INSTITUTION OF MOTHER MORANO EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

November 20. A two-day evaluation visit was conducted at the Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc., by a team from the Technical Vocational Institution of Mother Morano Educational Foundation. Ms. Renee Navarra, Ms. Chona Lugnasin, and Mr. Angelo Fuentebella led the evaluation team. During the visit, the evaluators interviewed trainees, graduates, and trainers, including Sr. Rose A. Panganiba, FMA, and Sr. Cathy Urgello, FMA. These interviews formed the core of the evaluation process.

DSWD AUDIT VISIT

Nov. 23. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) conducted an audit visit to LVF Macarascas with Ms. Irene, a Registered Social Worker (RSW), as the agency’s representative. Ms. Irene reviewed the records and other documents. We appreciate her time and expertise in ensuring compliance with DSWD regulations.

SR. LYN’S INSTALLATION AS THE FIRST ANIMATOR OF TAYTAY, PALAWAN

Fr. Juvelan Paul Samia, SDB, officiated the online Mass celebration while Sr. Teresita installed Sr. Lyn Grace and Sr. Nayda as animators of Taytay, Palawan, and Pansol in Laguna. The learners, staff, FMA, and Jacinda, the VIDES volunteer, can help make the event meaningful. As usual, the learners presented their repertoire of songs, playing with their respective musical instruments.

LVF MALIHAO, NEG. OCC.

DON BOSCO MONDO PROJECT RESEARCH TEAM AUDIT/ VISIT
November 29 – December 3, 2024 – The Don Bosco Mondo Project Research Team Audit/Visit occurred at LVF Malihao. The visit was led by Ms. Renee Navarra, the team leader, and her assistants, Ms. Chona Lugnasin and Mr. Angelo Fuentebella. The faculty, staff, and FMA Sisters warmly welcomed the team upon their arrival. During the audit, the research team conducted assessments and discussions regarding the ongoing projects, ensuring that everything was aligned with the objectives of the Don Bosco Mondo initiative. The team also interviewed students, faculty, staff, and administrators to gather valuable feedback and insights. Additionally, they visited the on-the-job trainees at their workplaces, where they could observe and engage with the trainees. The three research team members also had productive conversations with the trainees’ mentors and company owners, gaining further insights into the trainees’ experiences and the program’s effectiveness provided an opportunity to review progress, share insights, and strengthen the collaboration between the team and the school.

ISO ORIENTATION

Nov. 4-6. The ISO Orientation, led by Mr. Edgar F. Paca and Ms. Lady Claire Pamaybay, QCS Phils. Consultancy & Training took place at the School AVR. The FMA Sisters, faculty, and staff attended the event, which provided valuable information and guidance on ISO standards and procedures. During the session, they discussed the LINERA and the Strategic Plan, which enhanced the organization’s practices. The session proved insightful and aimed at improving the school’s operational processes. As a token of gratitude to Sir Edgar and Ms. Claire, the teachers prepared greeting cards. After the training, certificates of Training were handed to all participants.

LVF BOARD MEETING, GCASH & TIKTOK MASTERCLASS WORKSHOP

Nov. 14. The FMA Sisters, Board Directors, and Board Members gathered for the LVF Board Meeting at LVF Malihao. The event began with a welcome presentation followed by lunch, allowing informal discussions. The formal meeting included an October to November report highlighting key activities and a financial report to ensure transparency. Board members had queries and offered suggestions, contributing to the discussion on future improvements. A thank-you presentation from LVWDTC students showcased their talent, followed by a final photo opportunity. This meeting reinforced collaboration, ensuring continued progress for the institution. Meanwhile, Ms. Victoria Seluce, a teacher, and ten students attended the GCash X TikTok MASTERCLASS WORKSHOP at Marjhun’s Banquet Hall, Victorias City. Led by Benjo Bj Hervias, GCash Area Manager, the workshop featured an energizer activity and discussions and ended with a photo opportunity. This event combined administrative work with educational enrichment for the attendees. 

LEADERS AND ANIMATORS’ FORMATION 2024

Nov. 9. Seventeen (17) youth leaders, together with the SYM Coordinators, Sir Kenneth John P. Cornelio and Ms. Ma Aika Tacud, took the challenge of actively participating during the Leaders and Animators Formation 2024, which had a theme of “Bridging the Gap: Design, Technology and Youth Ministry,” held at Don Bosco Technical Institute—Victorias. The leaders were introduced to different platforms and apps that they could use to enhance further their leadership and organizational skills in the youth ministry.

NEPHILA WEB TECHNOLOGY, INC SITE VISIT

Nov. 18-21. The NEPHILA Web Technology, Inc. Site Visit focused on implementing a new system to manage the enrollment and grading cycles for TVET and Senior High School programs. The visit, led by AJ Dela Merced (Jr. System Support Analyst) and Roy Plomantes (Chief Technology Officer), aimed to optimize the school’s administrative processes. Key steps included setting up a Chart of Accounts, adjusting TVET tuition fees to be program-based, and configuring fees and payment plans. The Nephila team assisted in migrating student profiles and improving the cutoff management process by separating the enrollment and grading cycles to avoid conflicts. The team provided essential training for faculty and staff to ensure a smooth transition and empower the school to manage the system independently in the future. This visit laid the groundwork for a more efficient and streamlined administrative system that would benefit staff and students. 

FIRST AID AND BASIC LIFE SUPPORT TRAINING

Nov. 27. The First Aid and Basic Life Support Training was held at the School Multi-Purpose Hall, attended by the FMA Sisters, students, faculty, and staff. The event began with the opening program, followed by the Emergency Preparedness Module, where participants learned essential knowledge on handling emergencies. Ms. Annica Jen Belgira led this session from the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, which provided valuable insights on emergency preparedness. Then, the group had a short break for snacks. The training continued with First Aid Training delivered by Gary Apostol, who guided participants in learning basic life-saving techniques. After the lunch break, the training resumed with Basic Life Support (BLS) Training facilitated by Reynalyn Bedoya, who focused on CPR and other critical interventions. This was followed by a simulation, allowing the attendees to practice the skills they had learned. The event concluded with the awarding of certificates of appreciation to the three speakers—Ms. Annica Jen Belgira, Gary Apostol, and Reynalyn Bedoya—by Sr. Therese Yvonne Jance, FMA, on behalf of Sr. Ma. Guia S. Asparen, FMA, the School Directress. The session ended with closing remarks from Ms. Ma. Victoria Seluce, Health Service Staff, marking the successful and enriching experience for all involved. 

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

Catechesis plays a crucial role in the spiritual formation of individuals of all ages. Catechesis ensures the transmission of the Catholic faith from one generation to the next. It imparts the fundamental truths of the faith, such as the existence of God, the Trinity, the Incarnation, and the sacraments. Catechesis fosters a deep prayer life by teaching individuals how to pray and encouraging them to engage in regular prayer, both personal and communal. Catechesis remains an indispensable aspect of Christian life. By nurturing faith, forming conscience, cultivating prayer, and promoting community, catechesis empowers individuals to live as faithful disciples of Christ. As the world continues to evolve, catechesis must adapt to meet the needs of contemporary society while remaining loyal to the timeless truths of the Catholic faith.

SOLIDARITYSERYE

In today’s interconnected world, solidarity is more important than ever. We face global challenges that require global solutions. Climate change, poverty, and inequality affect us all, regardless of nationality or background. To address these challenges, we must work together across borders and cultures. We can build a more just, equitable, and sustainable future for all by working together. Standing with others, sharing their burdens, and fighting for their rights is a conscious choice. We are blessed to have consistent bread donors: RFM Corp., Breadtalk, and Purple Oven, which we share with our Child Protection Clinic Communities.

PASWI COP

The Philippine Association of Social Workers Inc. (PASWI) continues to lead and facilitate the Circle of Prayer (COP) every Wednesday night. Via Zoom videoconferencing. This starts with a meet-and-greet and announcements among social workers. Afterward, the group reads, shares, and reflects on the Word of God. Sr. Marivic ends this by sharing stories related to the Gospel reading and sharing a closing prayer. PASWI various local chapters co-host this Wednesday prayer habit.

by mir321

October 2024 News

LVF OCTOBRAVE: AN INDELIBLE MARK OF LASTING IMPACT

Indelible ink, a substance that leaves a permanent mark, is often associated with elections, signifying a voter’s participation in a democratic process. This also signifies bravery and courage. Moreover, this powerful symbol can extend beyond the ballot box, representing the enduring impact of an organization’s work. This is true for the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. (LVF). For more than thirty-four years, LVF has implemented innovative solutions, advocated for social change, and provided essential services—all these for the protection and empowerment of children and young people. Our Iloilo-wide #iamBRAVE Campaign has reached 7 867 students in the peripheries of the province! We remain committed to uplifting marginalized youth by offering LVF Training Courses in our centers in Palawan, Negros Occidental, and Quezon City. These courses aim to equip young people with skills and knowledge in preparation for their employment so that they have the capacity to alleviate their family situations. Behind these successes is God’s Divine providence and the guidance of Mama Mary and our Salesian saints, Mother Mazzarello, and Don Bosco! With these efforts, we at LVF create a positive and lasting impact. Much like indelible ink, this impact cannot be easily erased or forgotten.

LVF MALIHAO, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL
LVWDTC TVET GRADUATION
SUSTAINABLE ORGANIC FARMING TRAINING
ENROLLMENT TO EMPLOYMENT!
EDUCATOR’S DAY CELEBRATION AND INDUCTION CEREMONY
PENCIL MODULE
FAMILY LIVING ROSARY AND 2ND PARENTS FORMATION

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN
LVF MACARASCAS REGIONAL AUDIT
TRAINING PREPARATION AT BISHOP RESIDENCE AVT MISSION CENTER
OFF-CAMPUS TRAINING IN ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION NCII
OUTREACH INITIATIVE AT PUERTO PRINCESA CITY JAIL
TEACHERS’ DAY

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
CROSS CATHOLIC OUTREACH (CCO) VISITS LVF, QC!
RETREAT / RECOLLECTION
PARADE OF SAINTS
PHILIPPINE ASSOCIATION FOR SOCIAL WORKERS, INC.  RECOGNIZED LVF!

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
CATECHESIS
SOLIDARITYSERYE
PASWI COP

LVF #IAMBRAVE ROADTRIP IN ILOILO

The Passi National High School (PNHS) students have spoken: ‘We commit to be brave and to Speak Up when we experience and witness abuses; we are capable of protecting ourselves! We are brave!’

The LVF #iamBRAVE advocacy campaign reached a total of 7,867 child and youth participants. In Passi National High School alone, LVF has reached 6,000 high school students [divided into 2000 students in 3 sessions] from grades 7 & 8; grades 9 & 10; & grades 11 & 12 together with Sr. Marivic Sta Ana, Sr. Aleth Evangelista, & social workers, Ms. JessaMae Nardo, Angie Mae Villaren; in various schools in Passi City, Iloilo Western Visayas; Man-it Integrated School, Liboo Integrated School, Agdayao Integrated School, Passi National High School-Sablogon Annex, Agdahon Farm School, Mulapula National High School, Salngan National High School, Efraim Santibanez National High School, and Passi National High School.

Along with this advocacy campaign is the unshrouding of the reality that many children and youth are suffering from Filipinos’ culture of silence, the fear and refusal of voicing out of the incidence of abuse to protect the family integrity, shame, and stigma, among many other reasons, especially incest cases.

The article published by the Philippine News Agency (PNA) narrated that most of the violence against children cases occur in the form of physical abuse, with 213 recorded in 2018, followed by other acts of abuse with 97 and acts of lasciviousness with 64. Furthermore, the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) and the non-government organization Cameleon Association Inc. believe that there are still abused children who are afraid to come forward.

One of the participants emphasized the importance of speaking up, not just for herself but also for others who may feel too afraid or powerless to do so. Another underscored the importance of understanding their rights and reminding them that they are not impotent in the face of threats.

Her message inspired her fellow students to recognize that they can advocate for their and their peers’ safety and well-being. Principals, teachers, and students commented that this advocacy session benefited them. Some of them heard this issue for the first time and were happy because they were already aware and knew what was happening in their surroundings. These sessions are a precursor to LVF’s National Convention, which will gather 2,000 young people.

LVF MALIHAO, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

LVWDTC TVET GRADUATION
October 11. The graduation ceremony for the TVET (Technical Vocational Education and Training) Batch 2022-2024 trainees, held at the Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Malihao, marked a significant milestone for the graduates, their families, and the institution. Mrs. Michelle Gerona was the distinguished guest speaker for the occasion. In her inspiring address, she emphasized the transformative power of technical education and the importance of the CHAMP principles – Confidence, Hard work and Humbleness, Ambition, Multi-tasking, and Prayer – as essential guiding values for success. In addition, she told them that they should be proud because they are equally competent and competitive with graduate degree courses.

SUSTAINABLE ORGANIC FARMING TRAINING

October 1-4. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Malihao concluded the Season of Creation 2024, themed “To Act and Hope with Creation,” with a series of activities celebrating our commitment to sustainability. A key highlight was the Training Seminar on Sustainable Organic Farming, led by Mr. Melchor “Chong” Gabua from the Apostolic Vicariate of Taytay, Palawan. His extensive knowledge and passion for sustainable practices inspired our community, empowering us to cultivate a healthier future. These events brought us together to reflect on our responsibility to protect Mother Earth and foster action and awareness for a greener world.

ENROLLMENT TO EMPLOYMENT

October 5. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Malihao proudly announces the employment of two trainees at Mary Help of Christians College – Canlubang. This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to foster professional growth and practical experience for our trainees. This opportunity enhances their skills and allows them to contribute to the college’s mission of holistic education.

EDUCATOR’S DAY CELEBRATION AND INDUCTION CEREMONY

October 7. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Malihao celebrated Educator’s Day, along with the induction of the Student Youth Movement (SYM) and classroom officers. The event began with a short program at the school, where students presented heartfelt letters and gifts to each educator in appreciation of their hard work and dedication. Following the program, a mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Rafael Baja, adding a meaningful touch to the celebration.

PENCIL MODULE

On October 18, Mrs. Jonalyn A. Ayola, a former teacher at Laura Vicuña Women Development and Training Center, conducted a Pencil Module for the 54 Grade 12 students SY 2024-2025. This activity is aimed at helping the students reflect on their actions, recognize their shortcomings, and consider how they can grow in faith, character, and virtues.

FAMILY LIVING ROSARY AND 2ND PARENTS FORMATION

On October 26, the Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Malihao Community, in collaboration with Mrs. Jonalyn A. Ayola, hosted a meaningful event at the School’s Multi-purpose Hall. The event featured two main activities: the 2nd Parents Formation and the Family Living Rosary. The program began with the 2nd Parents Formation, led by Mrs. Jonalyn A. Ayola, a former school faculty member. The session was centered around the inspiring topic “The Dream That Makes You Dream,” highlighting St. John Bosco’s vision and mission. It focused on his dreams for the youth and how these aspirations continue to inspire and guide the Salesian community. Following the parents’ formation, the event proceeded with the Family Living Rosary, which featured a short presentation from the selected students and families gathered in prayer, strengthening their spiritual bond and reinforcing the importance of faith in daily life.

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

LVF MACARASCAS REGIONAL AUDIT
October 8. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) MIMAROPA conducted a regional audit to the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc.-Macarascas, Palawan. This important event marks the start of a comprehensive review and evaluation of the Foundation’s operations, financial records, and overall performance in line with regional standards and regulations. The audit is a crucial opportunity to assess the Foundation’s transparency, accountability, and effectiveness in fulfilling its mission. Sr. Rose and the staff will provide an overview of the audit process, which will involve detailed assessments, ensuring that all systems and procedures are in place to maintain the highest level of integrity and efficiency. During the audit, the Foundation will also reflect on its achievements and challenges over the past year and identify areas for improvement and growth. The goal is to comply with regulatory requirements and strengthen the Foundation’s commitment to its core values of service, education, and community development. Key stakeholders, including members of the Foundation’s board, auditors, and representatives from relevant regional offices, will attend the audit’s opening. The entire staff is dedicated to making this audit process smooth, transparent, and valuable, aiming to continue to serve the community with the highest level of excellence.

TRAINING PREPARATION AT BISHOP RESIDENCE AVT MISSION CENTER

October 9. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc., with Sr. Rose Panganiban, FMA, and the dedicated staff, visited the Bishop Residence AVT Mission Center located in St. Joseph de Worker Village. This visit was part of the preparations for an upcoming training session scheduled to take place in Taytay. The group toured the facilities to conduct a thorough inspection and ensure that everything would be ready for the training program. During the visit, Sr. Rose and the team assessed the space and resources available at the Mission Center, considering various factors such as accommodation, amenities, and logistical support for the participants. They closely examined the layout of the venue, as well as the accessibility and comfort of the environment, to guarantee that it would meet the needs of the trainees. The inspection was also an opportunity for the Foundation to engage with the local community at St. Joseph de Worker Village, strengthening the ties between the Foundation and the community it serves. Sr. Rose and the staff took the time to interact with members of the community, learning about their needs and offering support where possible. This collaborative approach is central to the Foundation’s mission of fostering a sense of unity, education, and empowerment within the local areas it serves. As part of the inspection, the team discussed the logistics of the upcoming training, including the schedule, the expected number of participants, and the various educational materials and resources that would be required. The goal is to ensure the training runs smoothly, providing an enriching experience for all those involved. The visit concluded with a final review of the Mission Center’s readiness, with Sr. Rose and the team expressing confidence that the upcoming training in Taytay would be a success. This site visit was just one of many steps in the Foundation’s ongoing efforts to provide valuable training and educational opportunities to the community, and it underscored the importance of meticulous planning and preparation to ensure that every aspect of the training would be up to standard.

OFF-CAMPUS TRAINING IN ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION NCII

October 17. Sr. Lyn Grace Palanca, FMA, led the staff and participants in filling out the necessary forms for an upcoming Off-Campus Training in Organic Agriculture Production NCII. The training, set to take place in the first week of November this year in Taytay, Palawan, is part of the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc.’s ongoing efforts to provide practical, hands-on learning opportunities for community members interested in sustainable agricultural practices. The session, under Sr. Lyn Grace’s leadership, involved careful preparation as participants were guided through the process of completing the required registration forms and documentation. These forms are essential for ensuring that all participants are properly enrolled and their information is accurately recorded before the training. Sr. Lyn Grace, with her deep commitment to education and community development, emphasized the importance of proper preparation to ensure the training runs smoothly and efficiently. The Organic Agriculture Production NCII course is designed to equip participants with essential skills in organic farming practices, including crop management, pest control, and sustainable farming techniques. This program is especially relevant for the region of Taytay, where agriculture plays a central role in the local economy, and the community has shown increasing interest in more sustainable and eco-friendly farming methods. The goal of the training is not only to enhance the participants’ skills but also to promote environmental stewardship and increase the local community’s capacity to produce high-quality, organic produce. The event on October 17 also served as an opportunity for Sr. Lyn Grace and the Foundation’s team to clarify any questions the participants had about the course, the schedule, and the logistical arrangements for the training in Taytay. It was an important moment for the learners to understand the scope of the training and how it would benefit them both personally and professionally. With the training just a few weeks away, there was a sense of excitement among the participants. Many expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to develop new skills that would help them in their own agricultural endeavors and contribute to the broader goal of promoting sustainable farming practices in the region. Sr. Lyn Grace, alongside the staff, assured the participants that the Foundation would provide the necessary support and resources to make the training experience as impactful as possible. The registration and preparation process on October 17 marked an important milestone in the journey toward the November training in Taytay. Sr. Lyn Grace and the staff’s commitment to ensuring that every detail was covered reflects the Foundation’s dedication to providing quality education and training opportunities that empower individuals and strengthen communities.

OUTREACH INITIATIVE AT PUERTO PRINCESA CITY JAIL

October 21. Sr. Rose Panganiban, FMA, Sr. Mel David, and Fr. Dan, Fr. Echo, volunteers, and staff visited the Puerto Princesa City Jail in Sta. Monica as part of a meaningful outreach initiative. The group conducted a Feeding Program and Gift Giving for the Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) held at the facility. This activity was carried out in connection with the celebration of National Correctional Consciousness Week, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the conditions and rights of individuals within the correctional system. The visit was not only an opportunity to provide a warm meal and small gifts to the incarcerated individuals but also to offer them a sense of hope, dignity, and solidarity. Sr. Rose and the team engaged with the PDLs, fostering a spirit of compassion and reinforcing the importance of rehabilitation, second chances, and the recognition of their inherent human dignity. The event also highlighted the commitment of the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. and its partners in supporting marginalized and underserved groups in society. By participating in National Correctional Consciousness Week, the team hoped to contribute to the ongoing efforts to promote the well-being of persons deprived of liberty and remind them that they are not forgotten. The visit was a heartwarming gesture of solidarity and kindness, reflecting the Foundation’s mission to serve and uplift communities in need, regardless of their circumstances.

TEACHERS’ DAY

October 8. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. celebrated Teachers’ Day with a heartfelt and simple presentation organized by the learners. The students showcased a variety of performances, including songs, poems, and dance, as a tribute to the dedicated Sisters and staff members who have guided and inspired them throughout the school year. The event was filled with warmth and gratitude as the learners took the opportunity to express their appreciation for the hard work and commitment of their teachers, recognizing the invaluable role educators play in shaping their futures. The celebration reminded us of the importance of teaching and the lasting impact that compassionate and devoted teachers have on their students’ lives. The atmosphere was filled with joy, laughter, and a sense of community, with everyone coming together to honor those who selflessly dedicate their time and energy to education.

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

CROSS CATHOLIC OUTREACH (CCO) VISITS LVF, QC!
October 11. For many years now, the Cross Catholic Outreach (CCO) has been one of the Laura Vicuna Foundation’s lead funders in its work for the protection of children and the prevention of abuse, trafficking, violence, and exploitation. Mr. Kevin Kho, CCO Project Officer, accompanied by Ms. Lot Ortiz Ruiz, visited the LVF Center in Cubao, Quezon City, to see the work LVF does in person and an encounter with the girls and staff. We are grateful and blest for CCO’s continued support of LVF’s initiatives to fight abuse, violence, exploitation, and trafficking.

RETREAT / RECOLLECTION

Oct. 05. The girls of the Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. Cubao Quezon City had the chance to have a profound encounter with Jesus through an overnight retreat at the Mornese Center of Spirituality in Pansol Laguna. God embraced them with love and allowed them to experience His healing power, granting them the grace of peace, mercy, and hope. Thank you to Sr. Rebecca and the community for your unconditional love and for allowing this chance for free. May God’s blessings be yours now and always.

PARADE OF SAINTS

Oct. 27. Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. Participated in the Parade of Saints at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Cubao Quezon City. It’s a counterculture to the pagan celebration of Halloween and a way to teach young children and families about the lives of saints. The event began with a Holy mass celebrated by Fr Rey Pagkalinawan at the Religious of the Virgin Mary chapel in Santo Domingo, followed by a parade going to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. It’s an annual activity that every parishioner looks forward to and enjoys, but for the girls at the center, it’s always a hope and a dream that one day they’ll be considered one of the saints in heaven.

PHILIPPINE ASSOCIATION FOR SOCIAL WORKERS, INC.  RECOGNIZED LVF

October 22. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. was given a gratitude award by the Philippine Association of Social Workers Inc. (PASWI) during the celebration of its 76th PASWI National Convention in Waterfront Hotel, Cebu City.  The citation reads: ‘This Gratitude Award is given to Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. for their invaluable support & services rendered to the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. & the communities they serve, which have positively contributed to improving people’s lives. Their wholehearted dedication to uplifting the welfare of children is truly commendable & inspiring.’

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

CATECHESIS
Have you ever come across a random Facebook reel in which a man approaches strangers and asks them questions about what leads to their success? Often, their answers follow a common theme: hard work, trust, and faith in God. LVF continues to spread the Word of God to our Child Protection Communities every Sunday of the week, facilitated by Sr. Sarah Grace Robas, FMA. One of catechesis’s primary goals is cultivating a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. By fostering a deep understanding of the Gospel message, catechumens are empowered to live as true followers of Christ. As a cornerstone of faith formation, catechesis is crucial in shaping individuals into mature disciples of Christ. There are literature reviews that relate success to faith in God or any higher being. Religion and spirituality help people in difficult times and provide opportunities for improvement in their livelihoods and lifestyles. In both good times and bad, people seek the power of God. In the face of uncertainty, be it environmental or broadly social, or in times of conflict, people may seek assurance and protection through faith, a source of inspiration. You can overcome any impediment in your path to success if you have faith. Faith is a statement of hope for a brighter future. It is more than a wish. The leap of faith is what faith implies.

SOLIDARITYSERYE

After every formation session, Sr. Sarah, assisted by LVF social workers, distributes biscuits, breads, juices, and sometimes toiletries and eggs to the attendees. On Monday, our staff gives out RFM bread to our ten (10) CPC Communities. At its core, solidarity is about empathy and compassion. We are grateful to our consistent donors who share their blessings with us.

PASWI- COP

In our increasingly noisy world, the power of silence, pause, and prayer is often overlooked. These simple acts can have a profound impact on our individual and collective well-being. That is why the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI) is having a weekly Wednesday prayer habit dubbed as Circle of Prayer (COP) via Zoom! This is participated in and co-hosted by different PASWI chapters nationwide. This online prayer transformed into a spiritual lifeline for social workers, providing a daily space for reflection, prayer, and seeking God’s grace.

by mir321

September 2024 News

THE POWER OF TEAMS: LVF SEP-TEAM-BER

Teams are essential in achieving goals. Our strengths at LVF come from good leadership, diverse capacities, hard work, prayers, and raison d’etre —building a culture of protection and empowerment of children, young people, and communities.


The collective strength and synergy that the LVF teams have generated and enabled countless achievements: Family Congress discussing the current issue that Filipino families are facing today dubbed as “Forever Love versus Divorce”; the LVF Roadtrip in Palawan to #endTraffickingInPersons continue to reach hundreds of students and parents in collaboration with the Department of Education and Community leaders in Palawan; with the continued partnership between LVF and TESDA, our Technical Vocational Trainees were trained for Produce Organic Fertilizer Leading to Organic Agriculture Production and Housekeeping with National Certificate II. Establishing partnerships and working with diverse networks is a powerful force that drives us to achieve remarkable things for and with the young, especially God, the reason of our being and strivings.Indeed, together, we can achieve more than we ever could alone.
 
PARENTS’ CONGRESS LVF 2024
 
LVF MACARASCAS-PALAWAN
PRODUCE ORGANIC FERTILIZER LEADING TO ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION NCII TRAINING!
BSP IN LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN!
TVET PALAWAN MEETING
MAYOR SOCRATES CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY AT LVF MACARASCAS!
ANNUAL GULPIMANO
ATI MIMAROPA SEMINAR
 
LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS CITY, NEG. OCC
HOUSEKEEPING NC II ASSESSMENT
TVET FORUM 2024
ENTREPRENEURSHIP SEMINAR
3RD ANNIVERSARY OF THE SDO
SYM KICK-OFF AND SEASON OF CREATION
SEMINAR WORKSHOP
MASS IN CELEBRATION OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
 
LVF CUBAO, QC
LVF ROADTRIP TO PALAWAN: TOGETHER, LET US END #TIP!
BREATHING THE AIR OF SANCTITY IN THE PLACES THE FMA ORIGINS
ONE IN WELCOMING REV. FR. ZABALA!
ROSH HASHANA WITH MADAM GILA FLUSS
 
WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
CATECHESIS
LVF SOLIDARITYSERYE EFFORTS!
PASWI-COP

PARENTS’ CONGRESS LVF 2024

Quezon City (Philippines). On 22 September 2024, a parent meeting was held in Cubao, Quezon City, at the Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF) of St. Mary D. Mazzarello Province (FIL), which addresses the needs and problems of at-risk boys and girls on the theme: “Forever vs. Divorce.”
 
The participants – about a hundred parents from the FMA centers of Mabalacat, Pampanga, Canlubang, Laguna, Sta. Mesa, Manila, and the LVF communities of Cubao, Quezon City – gathered to reflect on how the divorce law, recently approved by the House and still to be approved by the Senate of the Philippines, could have an impact on the family. The proposal aims to recognize divorce in the country – the only one in the world together with the Vatican – that currently recognizes marriage as indissoluble, admitting only the nullity decreed by the canonical tribunals in cases of serious shortcomings.
 
The event opened with a greeting from Sister Maria Victoria Santa Ana, FMA, CEO of the Foundation, who emphasized the importance of the family as the foundation of society. She then shared the touching story of a couple whose separation led to lasting suffering for their children, highlighting the profound and often hidden consequences of failed marriages.
Speakers Mr. Relly and Mrs. Myrna Baclit and moderator Ms. Carol Monz Thor delved into concepts such as the sanctity of marriage, the challenges families face, and the growing reality of divorce in Philippine society.
 
Mr. Relly Baclit reminded the participants that marriage is not a simple contract but a covenant sealed by God that requires sacrifice and love. His wife, Myrna Baclit, emphasized the power of forgiveness and reconciliation, encouraging couples to pray and work through commitment and sacrifice rather than easily opting for divorce.
 
Lyn, a resident of Laura Vicuña Center in Cubao, was touched by the personal stories of those present. Coming from a broken home, she and her siblings were separated and plunged into poverty as a result of their parents’ separation. Her story shed light on the emotional and financial toll separation can have on children.
 
Discussions in the groups were filled with empathy, marked by the contrast between the traditional Catholic view of marriage and the concrete realities that sometimes lead couples to separation. While many participants supported the belief of ‘forever,’ the conversation opened up a space for compassion and understanding that separation, and eventually divorce, may be a necessary fallback for some.
 
The event coincided with Philippine Family Week, a nationwide initiative that promotes the unity and strength of families. In light of the divorce bill, Sister Maria Victoria concluded the Congress by recalling the enduring power of love, forgiveness, and faith in keeping families strong. She urged the participants not to embrace the proposed divorce bill and instead adhere to Christian values ​​while facing the complexities of modern life.
 
The LVF Parents’ Congress 2024 served as a reminder that, although legislative changes may change the marriage landscape, the heart of the Filipino family – rooted in faith and a covenant of love sealed by God – remains as vital as ever. The event concluded with the Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Fr. Rey Paglinawan and a shared meal, a further sign of the closeness and support of the Laura Vicuña Foundation to families.

LVF MACARASCAS-PALAWAN

PRODUCE ORGANIC FERTILIZER LEADING TO ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION NCII TRAINING!
Sept. 09-20. A set of training was conducted under the Special Training for Employment Program (STEP) for Produce Organic Fertilizer Leading to Organic Agriculture Production NCII and three (3) days of training for Entrepreneurship led by Ms. Matet Palma. The training, which consisted of twenty-five (25) trainees, started at 8 AM and ended at 5 PM. It covered basic, common, and core topics for eleven (11) days. During the first activity, which focused on the basics, trainees were divided into five groups to get to know each other. In the following days, Ms. Matet P. Palma and Mr. Wernher Cervantes conducted sessions on “Vermi-Composting” and discussed the two processes of composting: “Pre-Composting” and “Rapid Composting.” Trainees participated in the pre-assessment process for both types of composting, collecting substrates from the surrounding area until the processes were complete. The training also included three days focused on entrepreneurship, featuring lectures and activities such as the “Collage of Life,” “Dart,” and brainstorming sessions to create easy-to-start business ideas. Additionally, the trainees participated in activities that tested their skills and knowledge as farmers, with support from other staff members. The training concluded with both trainees and trainers learning a great deal. The trainees were satisfied and eager to participate in the next training session.

BSP IN LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

Sept. 14. The Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. proudly welcomed visitors from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). We distributed food and essential items to needy families during this meaningful event. The day was filled with joy as volunteers and guests engaged with the community, sharing resources, smiles, and encouragement. Rain or shine, Bangko Sentral of PPC’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arrived early with their co-employees to cheer our learners.  They prepared the lantern-making contest, bringing all the materials to be used, and bought the three (3) lanterns made by the learners to display in their office this December.  They prepared games and left us canned goods, rice, bath towels, and toiletries not in sachets but in bigger containers. As we celebrated the birthday of Ms. Ana’s, they brought spaghetti and Jollibee for lunch.

TVET PALAWAN MEETING

Sept. 17. The Technical Vocational Institution of Palawan held a special meeting at the Ka Inato Function Hall in Barangay San Manuel, Puerto Princesa City. Sr. Lyn Grace M. Palanca, FMA, representing the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc., and other key participants attended the meeting. This gathering allowed attendees to discuss important initiatives and developments within the institution, fostering collaboration and the exchange of ideas for future projects. These discussions aimed to strengthen the institution’s framework and ensure its programs’ continued support and development.

MAYOR SOCRATES CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY AT LVF MACARASCAS

On Sept. 18, Vice Mayor Maria Nancy M. Socrates celebrated her birthday at the Laura Vicuña Foundation. She generously distributed packs of food and other gifts to the learners to mark the occasion, spreading joy and warmth within the community. The celebration honored the Vice Mayor and reinforced the Foundation’s commitment to supporting local youth. Before 9:00 a.m., the group of Vice Mayor Nancy Socrates, PPC, arrived.  The group was composed of Camp Malaya, a group of SK officials from Barangay Irawan, Tagburos, Milagrosa, San Manuel, and Tiniguiban.  Some Barangay officials were also here Chairman Cocoy Gabuco, Pamela Ponce De Leon, Deo De Guzman, Bong Magay, and Jocelyn Samson of Macarascas. She also brought members of Soroptimist International, headed by Atty—Nineth Quicho, wherein she promised to come back and see the possibility of extending help to the foundation. The SK officials prepared games for the learners and prizes for the winning teams.  The learners played three songs to thank the Vice Mayor and everybody. The huge Red Cross kitchen truck distributed spaghetti, fried chicken, squash, string beans, and coconut milk.

ANNUAL GULPIMANO

Sept. 21. Today, the scheduled gulpimano-brigada eskwela, the parents, and past pupils planted some of the calamansi trees while Jacinda, VIDES Volunteer, oversees the documentation.

ATI MIMAROPA SEMINAR

Sept. 25-27. Sr. Lyn Grace, FMA, attended the ATI (Agricultural Training Institute) MIMAROPA gatherings and seminars.  This year’s theme:  ‘Strengthening the Agricultural Extension through Training Management and Sharing of Technological Innovations,’ was held at Vencio’s Garden Hotel and Restaurant Barangay Tawiran, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro. UST Angelicum started the Edukasulong.  It is responsible for the online classes for the learners. These services, which are extended to REAP recipients, greatly benefit the learners.

Sept. 04-06. Bringing with them the skills and knowledge acquired in their school, the twenty-one (21) Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) – BSRS scholars took the Housekeeping NC II Assessment at the Silay Institute Inc., Silay City.

TVET FORUM 2024

Sept. 02. Ms. Ailene M. Ondon, School Registrar and TESDA Focal Person, and Ms. Ma. Aika F. Tacud, Assistant School Registrar, attended the TVET Forum at Nature’s Village, Talisay City. The Technical-Vocational Education And Training (TVET) forum started with a welcome message from Dr. Nena Samillano, ATINO President. Then, Dir. Ramon Evan T. Ruiz, Regional Director of Region 6, gave his message and direction. TESDA updates and ATINO updates were also discussed in the forum. The forum ended with a closing message from Engr: Edward Rapista, Area Vice President- South ATINO, and singing of the TESDA Hymn. The forum participants received a Certificate of Attendance at the event’s conclusion.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP SEMINAR

Sept. 12, 14, 19-20. The TVET and Grade 12 students attended the Entrepreneurship Seminar at the LVF Multi-Purpose Hall and school AVR. The seminar’s main objective is to give the students the knowledge and skills to be an entrepreneur. The student participants learned a lot in the discussions/inputs prepared by each facilitator, such as the “Ten Negosyo Qualities,” “Idea and Creativity, “Planning and Production,” and “Marketing.” For four (4) days, the students gave their best in the following activities: Dart Game, Gown Making, Envelop Game, and Marketing Game.

3RD ANNIVERSARY OF THE SDO

Sept. 16. Ms. Ailene M. Ondon, School Registrar and Dep-Ed Focal Person, represented the Laura Vicuña Women Development and Training Center at the 3rd Anniversary celebration of the City Schools Division of Victorias (CSDV) held at the SDO Office. She was invited by Ma’am Portia M. Mallorca, CESO V, Schools Division Superintendent, to perform an intermission number. The event was further honored by the presence of city officials.

SYM KICK-OFF AND SEASON OF CREATION

Sept. 25. The LVF Malihao Educating Community celebrated the SYM Kick-Off and Season of Creation at the LVF Multi-Purpose Hall. The activity started with a special prayer in celebration of the Season of Creation, which starts every 1st of September and ends on the 4th of October. After the special prayer, each SYM Group had a parade and a short presentation. In the afternoon, the students enjoyed the games prepared by the SYM Student Leaders and Sir Kenneth John P. Cornelio, SYM Coordinator. The cooperation and solidarity of the groups were evident during the activities.

SEMINAR WORKSHOP

Sept. 26. Ms. Ma. Aika F. Tacud, Assistant School Registrar, along with ten (10) student representatives, attended the seminar-workshop for business owners and students of business and entrepreneurship programs, titled “Diskarteng Canva for Every Negosyante,” held at the Don Alejandro Acuña Yap Quiña Cultural Center. The workshop consisted of four engaging sections: Session 1: Canva 101, Session 2: Graphic Design Basics, Session 3: Social Media Mastery, and Session 4: Video Editing 101.”

STARTING THE SY ‘24-’25 WITH A MASS

Fr. Eco celebrated a Holy Eucharist at the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year at LVF-Palawan. During the Holy Mass, Fr. Eco invoked the Holy Spirit to guide and enlighten the entire EC community throughout the academic year. The congregation prayed for the students, the staff, and the sisters for spiritual growth, academic success, and overall well-being. The Holy Mass was a solemn occasion that set an optimistic and spiritually uplifting tone for the start of the school year.

LVF CUBAO, QC

LVF ROADTRIP TO PALAWAN: TOGETHER, LET US END #TIP!
“Gagamitin ko ang impormasyon na ito bilang boses sa mga kabataan na walang boses.”
Sept. 13-17. This is just one of the many reactions and feedback from the participants during the LVF Initiative to Fight Trafficking-Anti Child Trafficking Session (LIFT-ACTS) conducted in different far-flung schools and communities in Palawan. Despite the challenges of Palawan’s geographical location, LVF was able to reach six hundred sixty-eight (668) students of Macarascas National High School, Bahile National High School, Ubaldo L. Conde National High School, The Parish of St. Joseph’s parishioners, LVF-TVET Palawan Trainers and Trainees, LVF-Girls, and LVF-Palawan Parents. During this preventive advocacy session, several realities came to light: most of the participants did not know what Trafficking in Persons is and the reality and severity of this dark and harrowing crime. “This is the first time that our participants and most of the schools that we went to have heard about trafficking in persons,” said Ms. Joy Hugo, LVF social worker and one of the facilitators of the LIFT-ACTS.
     
The Anti-Child Trafficking Session aims to raise awareness among children, youth, and parents who are vulnerable to child trafficking including parents, with Palawan is a famous tourist destination in the Philippines with open seas and ports, recalling that in 2018, Balabac, a municipality in Palawan, was tagged as a “backdoor” to Malaysia for human trafficking. The southern part of Palawan is used for human traffickers to travel by ship or boat, Atty Emmeline Aglipay-Villa said. The short film ‘Red Leaves Falling’ were shown to the participants, followed by a discussion and sharing. The participants committed to spread the information and knowledge to their friends and neighbors saying: “Gagamitin ko ang impormasyon na ito bilang boses sa mga kabataan na walang boses,” “Huwag tayo mahiyang magsumbong at lagi tayo maging aware sa mga future decisions natin,” “Huwag dali dali magtiwala at huwag kumapit sa patalim.” (“I will use this information as a voice to help my fellow youth,” … “Let’s not be shy to report and let’s always be aware of our future decisions,” “Don’t be too quick to trust and sell ourselves.”) The parents committed too to protect their children: “Tayong mga magulang wag hayaan maging biktima ng trafficking ang ating mga anak” and “Ipalaganap ang impormasyon na natutunan namin sa araw na ito…” “Huwag maghangad ng malaki para sa sarili kung ang kapalit nito ay ang kaligtasan ng iyong anak.”  (As parents, we must protect our children, don’t let them become victims of trafficking… Spread the information we learned today… Do not aspire too much or be selfish; it might cost your child’s safety.) This anti-child trafficking session was successful through the partnership and coordination with the Department of Education, Schools, Communities, and Sectors of Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. LVF social workers Ms. Josielyn Hugo, Ms. Angie Mae Villaren, and Ms. Jessa Mae Nardo facilitated it, assisted by Sr. Rosalia A. Panganiban, FMA of the LVF-Palawan. Together, let us raise awareness for the prevention of trafficking and the protection and empowerment of children, young people, and communities.

BREATHING THE AIR OF SANCTITY IN THE PLACES THE FMA ORIGINS

Sr. Sheila Marie Ducot, FMA – LVC economer, was blessed to be sent by Sr. Teresita Padron to join the FMA Project Mornese this year together with Sr. Joralyn Selloria, Sr. Marilyn Precilla, and Sr. Charito Belino. They breathe the air of sanctity in the places of our origins: Rome, Turin, and Mornese. May the spirit of our founders continue to live in them as they walk the pathways of Don Bosco and Mo. Mazzarello and be a presence that generates life and hope for all.

ONE IN WELCOMING REV. FR. ZABALA

Sept. 16. The Laura Vicuña Foundation family joins in welcoming Rev. Fr. Steven C. Zabala, the new Parish priest and Rector of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral of Cubao.

ROSH HASHANA WITH MADAM GILA FLUSS

Madam Gila Fluss, wife of Amb. Ilan Fluss, Israel Ambassador to the Philippines, and her daughter visited LVF to celebrate the Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year and one of Judaism’s holiest days. Meaning “head of the year” or “first of the year.” Her daughter facilitated a short breathing exercise and shared a tradition of eating the apple with honey, which can be interpreted for years to be sweet. 

WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

CATECHESIS
Every Sunday of the week, coinciding with the feast of the Archangels Sts. Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, Sr. Sarah Grace Robas, FMA, enlivened the Sunday Gospel message through catechesis with songs and games and the active participation of the children and mothers from the LVF—CPC (Hillcrest and Brgy. Pinagkaisahan).

LVF SOLIDARITYSERYE EFFORTS

We continue to share our blessings with the Child Protection Clinic Communities. This is after the Sunday catechesis. Bread from RFM Corp. was also distributed to the Communities in the next few days. We thank RFM Corp., Breadtalk, and Purple Oven for the bread! Be assured of our continued prayers for your intentions.

PASWI-COP

The Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc-Circle of Prayer (PASWI-COP), has been a source of rest and recharge among social workers in the Philippines. It has uncovered God’s grace in times of difficulties and challenges and miracles for those faced with illness beyond the doctor’s healing capabilities. ‘My journey has taught me that God is our strength, hope, and healer,’ shared Ms. Myrna Dadang, a retired social worker, now an educator at Holy Cross Davao College. Our sharers continue to pray that may the strength of God sustain us; may the power of God preserve us; may the hands of God protect us; may the way of God direct us; may the love of God go with us day and night forever for the days to come. This weekly prayer habit is headed by Ma’am Eva Ponce de Leon and Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA co-hosted by different PASWI local chapters.

by mir321

August 2024 News

LVF’s AWE-GUST MONTH

August can be considered one of the most significant months in Philippine history. There are numerous celebrations, from Filipinos fighting for freedom from their conquerors to celebrating the month-long Buwan ng Wika (Month of Language) in honor of the late Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon, the Father of the National Language, whose birthday falls on August 19. This month, we witnessed LVF making waves globally! Our young people, the FMA-FIL Delegates, had a one-of-a-kind, awe-gust experience at the International Youth Synod in Turin and Colle Don Bosco, Italy. Meanwhile, Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. FMA was in Thailand for the Inter-provincial Conference, and Sr. Sheila Marie Ducot, FMA, was in Malaysia, sharing and learning the best practices of TVET Institutions. This month, we are proud that LVF-empowered Child Advocates have conducted the Trainor’s Training during the Barangay Children’s Association (BCA) Camp in Laguna. Led by our dedicated Child Advocates, this training equipped the participants with valuable skills in conflict management, decision-making, and goal setting. We believe these skills will be instrumental in their future endeavors. These unique experiences and accomplishments made us proud and inspired us to aim higher.
 
LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
FMA-FIL JOINS THE INTERNATIONAL SALESIAN YOUTH SYNOD IN TURIN AND COLLE DON BOSCO
TRAINOR’S TRAINING: EMPOWERING YOUNG PEOPLE
LVF CHILD ADVOCATES JOIN MIKSKO WORKSHOP
CIAO-SPR IN THAILAND 
LVF MACARASCAS-PALAWAN
LVF MACARRASCAS WELCOMES SR. ENA, FMA
TESDA ANNIVERSARY
RCEF TRAINEES PRACTICE DRIVING
UST ANGELICUM REAP OPENING OF CLASSES
 
LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN
LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN COMPLETES TRAINING IN AGRO ENTERPRISE CLUSTERING APPROACH!
TECHNICAL BRIEFING ON CROP DIVERSIFICATION
LVF MACARASCAS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH WESTERN PALAWAN UNIVERSITY
WELCOME TO LVF MACARASCAS VIDES VOLUNTEERS!
STARTING THE SY ‘24-’25 WITH A MASS!
 
LVF MALIHAO- NEG. OCC.
NATIONAL TECHNICAL VOCATIONAL DAY
SIGNING OF AGREEMENT AND AWARDING OF SCHOLARSHIP CERTIFICATE
BOOKKEEPING NC III ASSESSMENT
MONITORING OF THE OPENING OF CLASSES OF PRIVATE SCHOOLS
MEETING WITH THE DEP- ED OFFICIALS FOR ACCOUNTANCY, BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT (ABM) STRAND VALIDATION FOR APPROVAL
DEP-ED MEETING
ONE TOWN, ONE PRODUCT INTRODUCTION
 
LVF TRAINING CENTERS JOIN THE STUDY-VISIT IN MALAYSIA AND SINGAPORE
BUWAN NG WIKA 2024 “FILIPINO: WIKANG MAPAGLAYA”
 
LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES 
SOLIDARITYSERYE
CATECHESIS
PASWI COP

FMA-FIL JOINS THE INTERNATIONAL SALESIAN YOUTH SYNOD IN TURIN AND COLLE DON BOSCO, ITALY

Aug. 11-16. The Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA-FIL) joined the International Salesian Youth Synod in celebration of the Bicentenary of Don Bosco’s Dream at Nine (9) Years of Age with the theme “The Dream that Makes You Dream: A Heart That Turns Wolves Into Lambs” with their delegates Ms. Rosea Marie Monsay and Ms. Felina Narvaez, LVF youth and staff of the Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. in Valdocco and Colle Don Bosco, Italy. Three hundred seventy-six (376) youth representatives, lay collaborators, FMAs, and SDBs from ninety-three (93) countries actively participated in this Synod. The first days of the Synod centered on guided tours of significant places in building Don Bosco’s oratory, and it continued to unfold in the serene and historically rich setting of Colle Don Bosco, the birthplace of St. John Bosco and the very place where he had his life-changing dream at the age of nine. The collaborative effort and unity among the young delegates in reading, studying, and reflecting on the Instrumentum Laboris (Working Document), then gathering into small groups of about ten participants to talk, express, and exchange ideas where each shared their dreams for themselves, society, and the Salesian Youth Movement (SYM), is a testament to the strength of the Salesian community. The information gathered on the small circles was presented in the general assembly. The discussions repeatedly emphasized the need for the young to be protagonists in this present time. On the other hand, the SDB and FMA drafted the decalogue and presented it during the general assembly. To walk on the path that Don Bosco once walked on is a goose-bump experience! His life was not grand—scarce even. But his dream persisted and shaped the world with his faith in the Lord, and in Mama Mary, it continues to inspire us after 200 hundred years. Ms. Rosea and Ms. Felina shared their learnings: “Don Bosco’s dream is alive! It still lives on today in us! I hope and pray that no matter what occurs in life, we never give up on our dreams. As long as our dreams are aligned with God’s, they will persevere. They will come true. They are going to endure.” The two added that Synod on Don Bosco’s Dream at Nine inspired them to become positive influences and accompanying presences to their peers. Participating in this Synod is a meaningful milestone for Rosea and Ms. Felina. Most importantly, it is significant for the mission they are currently involved in as social workers and educators at the Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc. “I am convinced why God put me here —to be available and answer His call.” Ms. Rosea added. The Synod concluded in celebration of Don Bosco’s birthday at midnight on August 16 with the then-Rector Major, now Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, SDB.

TRAINOR’S TRAINING: EMPOWERING YOUNG PEOPLE

Aug. 24-26. Seven (7) LVF’s Child advocates spearheaded the Trainor’s Training of Child Rights: Advocates and Facilitators Barangay Children’s Association (BCA) Camp 2024 for three days at Wood Side Farm and Waterparks, Cabuyao, Laguna, at the invitation of Ms. Emy India, Social Worker at CSWD-Office of Sta. Rosa, Laguna. Thirty-six (36) Barangay Children’s Associations (BCA) and eighteen (18) adult mentors actively participated in the sessions. Under Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which states that every child has the right to be heard and consulted in all matters affecting them, this training empowers children as child rights advocates. It aims to create a network of Child Rights Advocates and Facilitators to initiate child-led advocacies in schools and communities in the City of Sta. Rosa. The training was composed of seven (7) sessions: (a) Categories of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, focusing on children’s survival, protection, development, and participation, the core set of life skills; (b) Value Clarification, Building Self-esteem, Problem-Solving/ Decision Making, Critical Thinking, Creative Thinking, and Goal Setting, (c) Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC), were discussed by the girls. In conclusion, the participants developed a Communication Plan and Commitment to sustain the advocacy agenda. The program ended successfully, and the LVF girls learned much during the three-day event. According to Jelai, Arriane, Remy, and Jaz, everyone worked together and supported each other. It was also an excellent experience for them, as they were able to train their fellow young people and create an inclusive society where every child has the right to express their opinions, be an agent, and protect their rights.

LVF CHILD ADVOCATES JOIN MIKSKO WORKSHOP

Aug. 30- Sept. 01. Three (3) LVF Child Advocates, Remy, Jho, and Amy, actively participated in the three-day MIKSKO (Comics Workshop) organized by the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) in partnership with Consuelo Zobel Alger Foundation. The participants were taught how to draft a storyline for a comic book and drew sketches of how they would translate the stories through pictures or animations. Amy shared that “the activities helped her to enhance her artistic side, and she was encouraged to communicate with her fellow representatives to achieve their goals.” 

CIAO-SPR IN THAILAND 

Aug. 09-13. Sr. Ma. Victoria P. Sta. Ana, FMA (Youth Ministry Coordinator-Ph and LVF Managing Director) actively participated in the Provincials and Provincial Councilors of the Inter-Provincial Conference of East Asia (CIAO) and the South Pacific Region (SPR) gathered at the Ban Than Phraphorn Gathering Center in Samphran, St. Mary Mazzarello Province (THA) to participate in the Seminar “For Generative Animation.”
Photos from: Flickr FMA

LVF MACARASCAS-PALAWAN

LVF MACARRASCAS WELCOMES SR. ENA, FMA
Aug. 01. With a short program, The Laura Vicuña Foundation welcomed our visitors, Sr. Ena Bulaños FMA, our institute administrator, and Sr. Maria Josefina Carrasco FMA. Sr. Ena delivered a brief but inspirational message. Financially, she said, “We can find true happiness in Christ. He is our friend. And we can reach our dreams through His grace. On the same day, she visited Taytay with the LVC Community and talked to Bishop Pabillo about the mission of the Salesian Sisters assigned to the Vicariate of Taytay.

TESDA ANNIVERSARY

Aug. 8. Sr. Lyn Grace and the staff participated in the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Anniversary at Robinson Palawan.

RCEF TRAINEES PRACTICE DRIVING

Aug.10-11. The fifty (50) trainees under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Program (RCEF) practiced driving a PC Series Hand-Held Rice Transplanter machine and tractor.

UST ANGELICUM REAP OPENING OF CLASSES

Aug. 14. The opening of classes for the UST Angelicum (Reentry Education Agenda for the Poor) REAP program was held. There were thirteen (13) learners, including three (3) Grade 11 and One (1) Grade 5 students from Baurang Elementary School.

LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN COMPLETES TRAINING IN AGRO ENTERPRISE CLUSTERING APPROACH

Aug. 14. Ms. Matet and Sr. Lyn Grace attended and completed the Seedling Success: Training in Agro Enterprise Clustering Approach at Donfourdos Integrated Forum in Brgy. Ramon Magsaysay Aborla, Palawan.

TECHNICAL BRIEFING ON CROP DIVERSIFICATION

Aug. 21. Sr. Lyn Grace M. Palanca, FMA, attended the seminar regarding Technical Briefing on Crop Diversification at Dang Maria’s Manalo Ext., Puerto Princesa City.

LVF MACARASCAS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH WESTERN PALAWAN UNIVERSITY

Aug. 16. Western Palawan University (WPU) started its extension services at LVF Macarascas, Palawan. As a learning site of UST Angelicum, the learners have benefited from WPU’s extension services for more than five years. The university’s math, Science, and MAPEH teachers take turns assisting, guiding, and teaching the learners. The university comes weekly to complete the ten sessions per subject.

WELCOME TO LVF MACARASCAS VIDES VOLUNTEERS

Aug. 21. Laura Vicuña Foundation welcomed Sr. Melanie Pilar and the 10 VIDES volunteers. One of them will stay in LVC -Palawan as a VIDES Volunteer.  They had their lunch, and the learners welcomed them with songs.  The VIDES Volunteers will remain in Taytay for their mission camp. The VIDES Philippines Volunteers Foundation Incorporated, in partnership with the Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco, donated ten new paddle boats to 30 families. The beneficiaries were overjoyed at the generous gifts, which will undoubtedly support the families’ sustainability.  Aug. 26. Our new VIDES Volunteer, Ms. Jacinda Helld, a nineteen (19) year-old nursing student from America, arrived at LVC-Palawan to stay for four (4) months and help in our mission, especially by assisting and tutoring our girls. Our learners, together with the sisters and VIDES volunteers, are actively involved in gardening every day. This hands-on experience fosters a deeper connection with the environment and helps them contribute to our food supply. Gardening is essential for preserving our environment and ensuring sustainability. 

STARTING THE SY ‘24-’25 WITH A MASS

Fr. Eco celebrated a Holy Eucharist at the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year at LVF-Palawan. During the Holy Mass, Fr. Eco invoked the Holy Spirit to guide and enlighten the entire EC community throughout the academic year. The congregation prayed for the students, the staff, and the sisters for spiritual growth, academic success, and overall well-being. The Holy Mass was a solemn occasion that set an optimistic and spiritually uplifting tone for the start of the school year.

LVF MALIHAO- NEG. OCC.

NATIONAL TECHNICAL VOCATIONAL DAY
Aug. 27. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Malihao celebrated the National Technical Vocational Day with the theme “Tech-Voc Tungo sa Pag-unload at Pagbangon; Angking Talino at Kakayahan, Linangin at Isulong.” The students from Senior High School and the TVET demonstrated their diverse skills and competencies in various activities such as cooking, where they prepared a delicious dish using egg as the main ingredient; bed making, where they displayed their attention to the neatness and the process in preparing the bed; and sewing where they made well-designed coin purse, pillowcases, pencil cases, and aprons. The winners and the participants were recognized at the program’s end and received a gift pack and certificate of participation.

SIGNING OF AGREEMENT AND AWARDING OF SCHOLARSHIP CERTIFICATE

Aug. 07. Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, Ms. Ma. Aika F. Tacud, and the 38 TVET scholars attended the Signing of Agreement and Awarding of Scholarship Certificate at Don Alejandro Acuña Yap Quiña Arts and Cultural Center, Victorias City.

BOOKKEEPING NC III ASSESSMENT

Aug. 29. Aiming for a brighter future, the seven (7) Bookkeeping Applicants/Candidates: Shavanne Baquiriza, Pearlyn Arucan, John Robin Mendoza, Ricky Velasco, Clyde Cj Caparas, Loriemar Espiritu and Ma. Victoria Seluce took the Bookkeeping NC III Assessment at the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) – Talisay City.

MONITORING OF THE OPENING OF CLASSES OF PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Aug. 06. Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, Technical Directress, Ms. Ailene M. Ondon, School Registrar, and Sir Rino N. Barrido, Academic Coordinator, welcomed the Schools Division of Victorias Personnel Sir Giovanni Wray A. Estrano – Education Program Specialist II, Regina N. Bonda – Senior Education Program Specialist II, Glaizelle L. Po – Senior Education Program Specialist Human Resources Development as they conduct the Monitoring of the Opening of Classes of Private Schools. The team roamed around the school, checking the classrooms and facilities that the school provides to the students. The team’s monitoring ended in a colloquy with the technical director, school registrar, and academic coordinator.

MEETING WITH THE DEP- ED OFFICIALS FOR ACCOUNTANCY, BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT (ABM) STRAND VALIDATION FOR APPROVAL  

Aug. 01. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Malihao came together to celebrate faith as it held the traditional Mass to the Holy Spirit. Through this mass, the school believed it was a powerful way to invoke the guidance and power of the Holy Spirit as they embarked on a new academic year. The mass, held at the school’s Multi-purpose Hall, was presided over by Fr. John Cardinal. As they gathered, they prayed for a successful and fruitful year filled with personal learning and growth, faith, hope, and love for God. On the same day after the Holy Mass, Sr. Ma. Guia S. Asparen, FMA, School Directress, Ms. Ailene M. Ondon, School Registrar, and Sir Rino N. Barrido, Academic Coordinator, attended via online the validation meeting for Application for Program Registration (ABM – Strand) with Ma’am Jingky L. Dioso, PhD, Education Program Supervisor Quality Assurance Division, Ma’am Ronamie V. Reliquias, PhD, Chief, School Governance and Operations Division, and other officials in the Schools Division of Victorias City.

DEP-ED MEETING

Aug. 13: Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, Technical Director, and Sir Darrenz M. Caberoy, Co-curricular, attended the Department of Education (DepEd) meeting facilitated by Mr. Rufino L. Delfin Jr. (Education Program Supervisor TLE/ EPP Schools Division Office—Victorias City), with the agenda “National Voc-Tech Day 2024.” The meeting discussed the history of National Tech Voc Day and the upcoming schedule of activities.  Meanwhile, Ms. Ailene M. Ondon and Sir Kenneth John P. Cornelio visited Subay Marketing Envirotech Inc. for a site visit at the Subay Marketing Envirotech Inc. located in  Brgy. Sto. Niño, EB Magalona. Ms. Vanesa Paola Ymballa, Subay Marketing In-charge, introduced to them, as they roamed around the shop, the raw materials their shop used in recycling and creating new products such as furniture, pots and planters, picnic tables, school chairs, benches, garbage bins, bricks, paddle, pallet, skateboard, etc. She also encouraged the two to practice recycling materials, especially plastic bottles, in their houses and the school where they work.

ONE TOWN, ONE PRODUCT INTRODUCTION

Aug. 12. Ms. Ma. Aika F. Tacud represented the school as she attended the One Town, One Product Introduction activity held by the city government at the Local Economic Development and Investment Office in Victorias City. The companies and the small entrepreneurs of the city attended the activity. Moreover, they all got the chance to mingle with each other and introduce their products. The importance of One Town, One Product, and its benefits to small entrepreneurs was introduced to the attendees/ participants. The last part of the activity was the decision-making; the entrepreneurs were asked if they wanted to display their products to the OTOP Hub and sell them on consignment through the Local Economic Development and Investment Office.

LVF TRAINING CENTERS JOIN THE STUDY-VISIT IN MALAYSIA AND SINGAPORE

Aug. 26-28. Sr. Sheila, FMA, LVF-Cubao, QC Economer, Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA with Sir Rino N. Barrido-Malihao, and Sr. Rosalia Panganiban, FMA-LVF Macarascas Palawan joined the study visit of the Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco on Best Practices of TVET Institutions in Malaysia where they undertook a series of benchmarking and visited TVET institutions in Malaysia and Singapore focusing on diploma programs. On their first journey, upon arriving at Politeknik Port Dickson (PPD) Malaysia, they were welcomed by the unique musical presentation. Fortunately, they witnessed the innovation expo that day and were amazed by the innovation and invention; their students excel in their fields. They also attended a conference where the school discussed their best practices and programs offered. Later that day, they visited one of the school’s partner industries and explained the beauty of architecture and how they give importance to preserving its culture while going through innovation. On the second day, they continue the journey in Kolej Kemahiran Tinggi MARA Masjid Tanah (KKTM). Like the first school, they also introduced their best practices and offered diploma programs. The participants were fascinated by the opportunities and support the school gives the students and how the government supports the school’s needs, especially in finances. The school also ensures that students gain what they have worked for. Continuing their study visit in Singapore, the two visited the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) College East. They were mesmerized by the vast use of technology in teaching. Singaporeans are enthusiastic people because they use all their means to solve specific problems; for example, in their food, they rely on imports, but now the ITE is developing Horticulture, where they create and nurture their food inside the building. This institution also helps equip students to maintain the country. Their study visit ended at Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP), an institution known for engineering and Information Technology (IT). They were amazed by their facilities, which have many inventions that could help make daily life easier. Also, the government supports the school, which secures its financial needs. In this way, the school can upgrade its equipment to suit the students’ future skills. Sr. Sheila, Sr. Ernielyn, Sr. Rose, and Sir Rino recognized that the study visits significantly contributed to their learning and look forward to implementing these insights in their institutions. Last August 26 to September 1, 2024, the academic program of the TVET institution in Malaysia for the Don Bosco Salesian Sisters at Politeknik Port Dickson, in collaboration with the industry partner at Anjung Klana, Batu 4 (an architecture industry), involved seven TVET schools: LVF-Cubao, Palawan, Malhao, MHCCS-Canlubang, MHCS-Mindoro, MOTW-Cebu, Pampanga, and MHC-East Boroka, Papua New Guinea. Fifteen participants participated in the study visit, including eleven sisters and four lay teachers or trainers. From the LVF Technical Schools, Sr. Sheila, Sr. Erneilyn, and Sr. Rosalia attended the study tour.

BUWAN NG WIKA 2024 “FILIPINO: WIKANG MAPAGLAYA”

Aug. 22. The Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. – Malihao and Macarascas Palawan celebrated the Buwan ng Wika 2024 with the theme “Filipino: Wikang Mapaglaya” held at the school’s Multi-purpose Hall. Student participants showcased their talents in the following contests: “Dagli-ang Talumpati,” singing of OPM songs, spoken poetry/ tula, poster making, a debate on the importance of the Filipino language over the English language, and a dance contest. The winners of each contest and the students who wore the best costume were given a certificate and a gift pack as their prizes. The celebration ended with a photo opportunity, during which everyone’s smiles were full of life and energy while wearing and representing the national costumes.

LVF WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

SOLIDARITYSERYE
LVF BALIK-ESKWELA
August is the start of the new school year. With this, LVF prepared and distributed notebooks, ball pens, pencils, papers, and other school supplies to our Child Protection Clinic communities! Sheena, one of LVF girls who packed the school supplies said “masaya ako na nakakatulong sa kapwa ko Kabataan sa pamamagitan ng pakikibahagi ko sa pagprepare at pagbibigay ng mga school supplies. Nakakataba nang puso makita ang pagliwanag ng mga mukha ng mga bata sa tuwing tinatanggap nila ang mga bag.” (I’m glad to be of help with other young people, especially the kids, by helping in preparing and distributing school supplies. Seeing the joy on the kids’ cheeks when they open the bags is really touching.)

LVF CATECHESIS

Every Sunday, LVF Sisters Sr. Phebe Lacse, FMA, and Sarah Grace Robas, FMA, along with our social workers, simultaneously facilitated the weekly onsite catechesis at the LVF Center in Cubao and in distant Child Protection Clinic (CPC) areas in Cavite, Marikina, and Botocan.

PASWI COP

The Philippine Association of Social Workers Inc. (PASWI), for more than three years now, has its continuing commitment to pause, rest, recharge, and meditate through prayer in the Circle of Prayer (COP) every Wednesday night led by Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana and ED Eva Ponce DeLeon and PASWI’s various local chapters nationwide. This Wednesdate habit allows social workers to converse with their fellow social workers, kumustahan (say hellos). The Circle of Prayer is a time to pray for peace, the healing of social workers, their friends, and family members, and, more significantly, to reflect and share the Word of God.

by mir321

June 2024 News

‘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.