Tag / faith

by mir321

May 2025 News

MERRY MONTH OF MAY

The month of May features grand festivities in the Philippines, a country deeply rooted in its Catholic faith, rich cultural traditions, and celebration. It’s often dubbed the “Merry Month of May” due to the abundance of vibrant festivals and events! The most prominent celebration this month is the Flores de Mayo (“Flowers of May”), a month-long tradition of offering beautiful flowers to the Blessed Virgin Mary,  culminating in the spectacular Santacruzan. For the Salesian Sisters, the month of May holds immense significance: May 6- feast of St. Dominic Savio; May 9 Birthday of Mary Mazzarello, their co-founder; May 13-Feast of St. Mary Mazzarello; May 24- Feast of Mary Help of Christians-40th & 25th Silver Jubilee of Salesian Sisters, and May 31 is the feast of Our Lady’s Visitation to St. Elizabeth.

The 2025 Philippine elections, where our four girls exercised their right to vote, were a crucial process in democratic governance, shaping the legislative landscape and local leadership for the next three to six years, and reflecting the ongoing political dynamics and challenges in the country.
At LVF, we are blessed by these achievements:

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN
SCHOLARS’ ACHIEVEMENT TEST
YOUTH CAMP FOR MAIN: PREPARATION FOR THE FEAST OF MO. MAZZARELLO
THANKSGIVING PROGRAM
CONGRATULATIONS, SR. ROSE: 40 YEARS OF BEING A SALESIAN SISTER!
ANNUAL OUTING OF STAFF

LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS CITY
NC II SCHOLARS’ TRAINING INDUCTION PROGRAM
ISO STAGE 2 AUDIT
CONFERENCE AND CAPACITY PROGRAM ON DEVELOPING COMPETENCY-BASED LEARNING MATERIALS (CBLM)
STAFF YEAR-END OUTING
MASS OF THE SOLEMNITY OF MARY, HELP OF CHRISTIANS

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY
HALALAN 2025!
SR. SHEILA, FMA: CELEBRATING HER 25TH PROFESSION AS A SALESIAN SISTER
CELEBRATING THE FEAST OF MO. MAZZARELLO @LVF CUBAO!
FLORES DE MAYO 2025

LVF CUBAO WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
SUNDAY CATECHESIS
SOLIDARITYSERYE
PASWI-COP

LVF MACARASCAS, PALAWAN

SCHOLARS’ ACHIEVEMENT TEST
May 1-2. The students of Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc., under the UST Angelicum College REAP Program, have completed their 2-day Achievement Test. This was made possible through the guidance and support of the dedicated UST Angelicum teachers from Manila. The results of their achievement test will determine whether they will proceed to the following year’s academic level.

YOUTH CAMP FOR MAIN: PREPARATION FOR THE FEAST OF MO. MAZZARELLO

May 3. As the community prepared for the feast of St. Mary Domenica Mazzarello on May 24, the LVF Macarascas, Palawan students were divided into groups, each tasked with creating a group name, symbol, house rules, yells, and selecting a specific trait of Mother Mazzarello to emulate. Mother Mazzarello, fondly called Main, is the co-foundress of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, the Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco. As her feast approaches, the students learned and deepened their understanding of the virtues and the life she lived. A community rosary prayer was held around a bonfire, fostering a spirit of unity and reflection. Following the prayer, everyone participated in various recreational activities, including cha-cha, stop dance, and the picture frame game. 

May 4. The second day of the camping activity began with a community viewing of a film on the life of St. Mary Mazzarello. This was followed by a short presentation and discussion led by Sr. Rosalia Panganiban, FMA, which encouraged the learners to reflect more deeply on Main’s life. The students then engaged in a sharing session and a written activity, concluding with a personal commitment written on paper as a meaningful response to their reflections. In the afternoon, Ms. Jeziel Mendoza, RSW, facilitated an interactive session on navigating social media responsibly. After the session, the community participated in a brief reflection and written activity, enabling learners to internalize and express the insights they had gained. To culminate the two-day event, the social worker, together with Sr. Rose A. Panganiban, FMA, held an awarding ceremony recognizing each group’s participation and efforts throughout the camping experience. All students received awards, and the event concluded with much joy and a sense of accomplishment among the learners.  

THANKSGIVING PROGRAM

May 6. The community held a heartfelt Thanksgiving and despedida program for Sr. Mel, Sr. Mela, and Sr. Cathy as they will be reassigned to a different community. With deep gratitude, the community expressed its appreciation for the meaningful moments shared and the positive impact the sisters have had on the lives and personal growth of each student, as well as on the parents and staff. Following the program, everyone gathered for a communal meal, made possible through the generous bring-and-share contributions of the parents, staff, and community members. This is not goodbye, but a thank you and a promise to see you again soon, our dearest Sisters.

CONGRATULATIONS, SR. ROSE: 40 YEARS OF BEING A SALESIAN SISTER

May 24. Along with the Feast of Mary Help of Christians, Sr. Rosalia Panganiban, FMA, celebrates her Jubilee Anniversary as a professed Daughter of Mary Help of Christians, Salesian Sister of St. John Bosco. Forty (40) years of being a professed sister may not be an easy journey, but with God’s grace, our Salesian Sisters remained faithful, steadfast in their mission, and obedient to God’s call.

Sr. Rose’s community in Macarascas, Palawan, joined her in her celebration. They gathered for a simple outing at Ruby and Family Beach Campsite, where they shared an agape lunch and spent time swimming together.

ANNUAL OUTING OF STAFF

May 7-8. The staff, together with the Salesian Sisters and VIDES volunteers of the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc., held their annual outing in Port Barton, Palawan. The group stayed at Teteng’s Place, where they were warmly accommodated. During their stay, the community had the opportunity to explore the area’s beauty, including an island-hopping tour. The staff enjoyed various activities, including snorkeling, swimming, and appreciating the natural surroundings. In the evening, they spent time together exploring the local area, making the outing a memorable and refreshing experience for everyone involved.

LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS CITY

NC II SCHOLARS’ TRAINING INDUCTION PROGRAM
May 13. Twenty-five (25) Housekeeping NC II scholars under PESFA (Private Education Student Financial Assistance) participated in a Training Induction Program held at Laura Vicuña Hall, Malihao. The program was conducted via Zoom and facilitated by Ms. Hillary Ticao, TESDA scholarship Focal person, while Ms. Ailene M. Ondon, the TESDA focal person, helped coordinate the event. This induction served as an essential introduction to their upcoming training, laying the foundation for their skills development and future success in the housekeeping field.

ISO STAGE 2 AUDIT

May 23. The LVF-Malihao Community, including faculty and Staff, successfully participated in the ISO 9001:2015 Stage 2 Audit held at the School’s AVR. The audit, conducted by Ms. Jogina Mendiola from TÜV Rheinland, marked a significant milestone in the institution’s commitment to quality management and continuous improvement. Thanks be to God; the school passed the Stage 2 Audit.

CONFERENCE AND CAPACITY PROGRAM ON DEVELOPING COMPETENCY-BASED LEARNING MATERIALS (CBLM)

May 29–30. The Visayas TVET Association (VisTVET), in collaboration with the Unified TVET of the Philippines and PEAC, conducted a two-day Training Conference and Capacity Program on Developing Competency-Based Learning Materials (CBLM) at the SMX Convention Center in Bacolod City. Representing the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. – Malihao were Sr. Ma. Guia S. Asparen, FMA, Directress and Bookkeeping NC III Trainer, and Ms. Jonalyn Ayola, Housekeeping NC II Trainer.

STAFF YEAR-END OUTING

May 4–6. The LVF-Malihao Community and Employees held their year-end outing at Balasdako, Escalante City, a private property owned by the Sta. Ana family. The three-day event was filled with laughter, shared meals, beachside relaxation, and quality time, making it a significant break from work. Special thanks to the caretakers of the Sta. Ana family for their warm accommodation and excellent service, which made the entire experience comfortable and memorable.

MASS OF THE SOLEMNITY OF MARY, HELP OF CHRISTIANS

May 24. The LVF-Malihao Community, Faculty, and Staff gathered at Mary Help of Christians Parish in Victorias City to celebrate the Mass of the Solemnity of Mary Help of Christians, presided over by Fr. Jaime Carmona, SDB, Fr. Reynante T. Sabelita, SDB, and Fr. Norman Broderick T. Segovia, SDB. After the Mass, free snacks were served, allowing the community to enjoy fellowship and strengthen their bonds.

LVF CUBAO, QUEZON CITY

HALALAN 2025
May 12. ‘It is exciting to cast our votes! We are happy that in exercising this right, we have contributed something important to our country’ said Salyn, 19 years old, and an LVF resident, along with her three (3) fellow residents. This year, the Philippines is electing its new Senators, party list, and local officials.

SR. SHEILA, FMA: CELEBRATING HER 25TH PROFESSION AS A SALESIAN SISTER

May 13. Today, we joyfully celebrate the feast day of St. Mary Domenica Mazzarello, the co-founder of the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA). This year holds special significance as FMA Philippines and Papua New Guinea (FMA PNG) mark their remarkable 70th year of presence. Along with this significant event, the LVF Cubao Educating Community is joined by Sr. Sheila Marie Ducot, FMA, who celebrates her 25th anniversary as a professed Salesian Sister. Her presence in the LVF community has a significant impact on the young people she serves. What a fruitful journey of faith, communion, service, charity, and hope. Indeed, everything is grace. As she continues her journey, we pray for her a steadfast heart, fidelity, good health, and God’s blessings for her, her family, and loved ones.

CELEBRATING THE FEAST OF MO. MAZZARELLO @LVF CUBAO

May 13. The LVF Cubao Educating Community hosted the celebration of the Feast of St. Mary Domenica Mazzarello, the co-foundress of the Institute of Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA). After their pilgrimage, the FMA Sisters indulged in a sumptuous dinner prepared by the Sisters and girls. They also enjoyed the street foods such as kikiam, fish balls, fries, nachos, and more. The girls rendered them heartwarming songs as a gesture of thanks and appreciation for the presence of the FMA Sisters. 

FLORES DE MAYO 2025

Flores de Mayo (Flowers of May) is a month-long Catholic festival celebrated throughout the Philippines during May. It is a vibrant and cherished tradition that honors the Blessed Virgin Mary. At LVF, the community offers flowers to Mama Mary after every rosary.

LVF CUBAO WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

SUNDAY CATECHESIS
In heartfelt celebration of the Month of Flores de Mayo, the Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF) pays tribute to Mama Mary. Sr. Sarah Robas, FMA, shared beautiful Marian songs with the children and parents of Brgy—Pinagkaisahan and Hilcrest, filling the day with joy and reverence. Sr. Sarah also offered a brief but meaningful reflection on the significance of Flores de Mayo, describing it as “isang pagbibigay-parangal kay Maria dahil sa kanyang pagtitiwala at pananampalataya sa Diyos na walang pag-aalinlangan.” (“a tribute to Mary for her unwavering faith and trust in God.”) As part of this tribute, paper flowers and prayers were lovingly offered to Mama Mary. Sr. Sarah encouraged everyone to do at least one act of kindness—an offering not only to Mama Mary but also to the Lord and as an expression of love for one another. 

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

A date with the Lord. Every Wednesday night, the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI) and social workers from various parts of the country gather for a night of prayer, sharing, and reflection on the Word of God. Like fresh water, this weekly prayer refreshes our souls from the days that have passed and prepares us for the days ahead. The social workers’ sharing proves that we are not alone in moments of difficulties and challenges. We draw inspiration from their testimonies of rising and being triumphant with God. This Wednesday prayer is co-hosted by different PASWI local chapters, facilitated by Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, FMA and E.D Eva Ponce de Leon.

by mir321

May 2024 News

LVF’s AMAYZING MONTH 

May is the fifth month of the year and is associated with joy and rebirth. It is painted with vibrant hues of blooming flowers, especially this Flores de Mayo (Flowers of May) and warmer days. Some define the month of May as ‘going or moving.’ As we move forward and remain at the forefront of child safety and prevention from violence, abuse, exploitation, and trafficking, LVF corresponds with the meaning and symbolism of this month.
 
It is a month of finding new paths; LVF Vice Pres., Mr. Francisco Dizon & LVF Trustee, Mrs Vicky Cuisia opening doors to LVF Malihao to the BPO world; it is a celebration of the Feast of Mary Help of Christians, the announcements of the assignments of the Sisters, the successful medical mission conducted in collaboration with Veterans Memorial Hospital, the graduation of our two scholars, the commencement exercises of Malihao Senior High School, which were honored by the presence of the Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines, and the completion of OAP. These achievements are a testament to our dedication and inspire us to strive for more.
 
How aMAYzing it is to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth, to anticipate new experiences, and to witness God’s blessings in all their richness. Our hearts are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to move forward, and we hope this journey continues to inspire and motivate each of us.  
 
At LVF, we are dedicated and passionate about inspiring others to dream, learn, do, and become more. This unwavering commitment is at the heart of our mission and values, and it is your support and involvement that drives us to make a profound and lasting impact. You are an integral part of our success.
 
KIKO: LVF PALAWAN SUCCESS STORY
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR GRADUATION, JAZ & EM!
 
LVF CUBAO, QC
 
LAURA VICUNA FOUNDATION & VETERANS MEMORIAL MEDICAL HOSPITAL JOINT MEDICAL MISSION
ISRAEL’S DEPUTY DIRECTOR FOR SOUTHEAST ASIA VISITS LVF!
FEAST OF MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS!
LVF GRATITUDE DAY: INHALE GRATITUDE, EXHALE LOVE
MARIAN MONTH OF CHILDREN
LVF CULMINATES FLORES DE MAYO
 
LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN
 
OAP COMPLETION CEREMONY!
DIRECTOR GERARDO A. MERCADO AT LVF-MACARASCAS, PALAWAN!
LVF MACARASCAS JOINS PROPOSAL WRITING!
TRAINING ON PERA
LVF-MACARASCAS PALAWAN ASSISTS 19-STEP SCHOLARS!
WALK FOR A CAUSE
LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN YES AHA!                                                             
HAPPY FEAST OF MO. MARY DOMENICA MAZZARELLO!
WORLD CHILDREN’s DAY!
MAINS’S CAMP
LAUDATO SI
Clean-up Drive
Waste Segregation
Tree Planting
Cook-Out
 
LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS CITY, NEG. OCC.
 
REGIONAL IT-BPM ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION
7TH SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES
GRADE 11 OUTREACH PROGRAM
EMPLOYEE’S LAKBAY ARAL 2024
SIKARAN CULMINATING ACTIVITY 2024
FEAST OF MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS
GRATITUDE DAY 2024
 
LVF-QC WEEKLY ACTIVITIES
 
LVF SOLIDARITYSERYE!
CATECHESIS
PASWI-COP 
 
This month, we are happy to share one of LVF’s success stories.

KIKO: LVF PALAWAN SUCCESS STORY     

Francisco Gabua, also known as “Kiko” Custodio, is the youngest child of Melchor and Elizabeth Gabua, who are farmers in Barangay Bagong Sikat, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. His father is currently our agricultural consultant, having earlier spearheaded the Organic Farming effort at the Laura Vicuña Foundation in Palawan.

Kiko completed his elementary and secondary education at UST Angelicum College through the REAP PROGRAM (Re-entry Education Agenda for the Poor), a branch of the UST Angelicum Home Study Program run by the Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco and based on the Laura Vicuña Foundation’s Palawan location. He got his bachelor’s degree in agriculture at Western Philippines University and passed the Licensure Examination for Agriculturists.

Bishop Broderick Pabillo provided Kiko with a scholarship that allowed him to finish his studies. After graduation, he lived and worked with the children at the Laura Vicuña Foundation, Inc. Palawan, for two years, acting as the boys’ assistant and assistant farm manager.

He was one of the Organic Agriculture Production NCII trainers under the TESDA and ATI of the Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. The values of the religious community he lived with always guided him, contributing to his growth and making him the person he is today—all thanks to the FMA sisters for molding him into a good fruit of the Salesian Family. Seeking to further his knowledge and experience, Kiko spent a year in Israel, participating in the Agrostudies Program.

With this opportunity, he increased his level of agricultural knowledge. Kiko is starting a new adventure in the US as an agriculturist. Although farming was not his first dream, it has shaped who he is now. Kiko understands that looking ahead might occasionally cause one to lose sight of opportunities in the here and now.

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR GRADUATION, JAZ & EM 

May 30. LVF Scholars Ms. Jazlyn Narvadez & Ms. Desiree Ligutan graduated from Senior High School at Colegio de Sta—Ana de Victorias under the Humanities and Social Sciences Strand. For our two scholars, this marks a significant turning point. Following years of acclimating to blended learning, particularly during the pandemic, their diligence eventually paid off. Reaching yet another important life milestone.
 
“I never thought I could accomplish my education, given the challenges I faced and the pandemic. But mostly, I am grateful for LVF, especially Sr. Marivic, FMA, for being the wind beneath my wings. And above all, to the Lord God for sustaining me, us every day.” she said.

LAURA VICUNA FOUNDATION & VETERANS MEMORIAL MEDICAL HOSPITAL JOINT MEDICAL MISSION

May 12. More than one hundred twenty (120) children, adults, and elderly benefited from the Laura Vicuna Foundation (LVF) and Veterans Memorial Medical Hospital (VMMH) joint Medical Mission to LVF’s Child Protection Community in Brgy. Hillcrest, QC! They were provided with free consultations, prescriptions, medicines, and vitamins.
 
Before the activity, LVF Social workers Ms. Joy, Ms. Patricia, Ms. Angie, and Sr. Phebe Lacse, FMA, made a courtesy call to the barangay captain and officials to plan and prepare the needed logistics.
 
The Medical Mission came at a perfect time because most kids had terrible colds, coughs, and other respiratory ailments. Conversely, older people often have not seen a doctor in a long time. The volunteer doctors and nurses have provided essential care within the community of Brgy. Hillcrest.
 
After completing their consultation, the recipients thanked the doctors, LVF, and its staff for reaching out to their community and expressed their satisfaction with the free vitamins and medications.
 
The Medical Mission was a success because of the collaboration of LVF, VMMH, and Brgy. Hillcrest. LVF is a partner community of the Veterans Memorial Medical Center-Family Medicine Department.

ISRAEL’S DEPUTY DIRECTOR FOR SOUTHEAST ASIA VISITS LVF 

May 28. Ms. Michal Weiler-Tal, Deputy Director for South-East Asia, Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Amb Ilan Fluss and wife Madam Gila Fluss; Deputy Chief of Mission Esty Buzgan; and Consul Moti Cohen visited LVF.  “I am grateful I have the opportunity to know you [girls] all,” Ms. Weiler-Tal remarked.

FEAST OF MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS!

May 24. In celebration of the Feast of Mary Help of Christians, the LVF Educating Community congratulates FMA Sisters Sr. Phebe, Sr. Marivic, Sr. Sarah, and Sr. Sheila for their continued commitment to their vocation and love for the young. The Feast of Mary Help of Christians is celebrated on May 24. The tradition of this advocation goes back to 1571 when the whole of Christendom was saved by Mary Help of Christians when Catholics throughout Europe prayed the Rosary. The great battle of Lepanto occurred on October 7th of 1571. 

LVF GRATITUDE DAY: INHALE GRATITUDE, EXHALE LOVE 

May 09. The Laura Vicuna Foundation, Inc., Cubao-QC, was filled with joy and appreciation as the Educating Community celebrated the Gratitude Day for the Community Animator, Sr. Phebe Lacse, FMA. The girls and staff gathered, eager to entertain Sr. Phebe with various enjoyable activities, including dances and songs of gratitude. Ms. Sam, LVF Educator, celebrated this meaningful encounter for the second time. She said, “Indeed, our celebration of Gratitude Day is a testament to the power of community centered on God, and here, we can see the impact of continuing the Salesian Tradition. It strengthened our bond and renewed our commitment to the values guiding us daily.” Indeed, at LVF, we inhale gratitude and exhale love. The celebration of the annual Gratitude Day is a Salesian Tradition in which the community members prepare programs and food and treat the Animator to a feast to express their heartfelt thanks and appreciation for all that she has done in the community and for the young people!

MARIAN MONTH OF CHILDREN 

May 25. Catholic churches observe the Marian Month Festival of Children domestically in the Philippines and abroad to prepare for 2025, the year of blessings, forgiveness, and optimism. Along with children from neighboring barangays and vicariates, the Laura Vicuña Foundation CPC children from Hillcrest and Pinagkaisahan participated in the Marian Month of Children. It was celebrated with the Holy Eucharist. In the afternoon, a parade of the Virgin Mary and children offered roses. The program ended with a blessing from the Parish Priest.

LVF CULMINATES FLORES DE MAYO

May 31. Flores de Mayo is a well-known Catholic celebration in the Philippines observed throughout May. The Santacruzan parade served as the month-long celebration finale. The LVF girls donned Mary’s clothes, portraying her various titles and signifying the virtues it embodies.  The children, young people, and families had floral offerings, daily prayers, and the flower-crowning of a statue of Mary. This also reenacts Queen Helena’s search for the True Cross.

LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN

OAP COMPLETION CEREMONY!
April 11. The Laura Vicuńa Foundation – Palawan celebrated the graduation of the twenty-five (25) trainees on Organic Agriculture Production (OAP) with National Certificate II who completed the 29-day training.

LVF MACARASCAS JOINS PROPOSAL WRITING 

April 9-12. Ms. Matet P. Palma attended the Training on Proposal Writing Beyond Words: Unleashing Excellence in Proposal Writing, conducted by DA-ATI at Dosfourdos farm.

TRAINING ON PERA

April 14-19. Mr. Wernher M. Cervantes attended the training conducted by DA-ATI at ALA-AMID HOTEL—the Training on Productivity Enhancement of Rice Area (PERA).

LVF-MACARASCAS PALAWAN ASSISTS 19-STEP SCHOLARS 

April 05. Laura Vicuña Foundation – Palawan assists the nineteen (19) STEP scholars on Raise Organic Hogs from Baranggay Marufinas to receive their tool kit awarded by the TESDA and Sen. Pia Cayetano.

WALK FOR A CAUSE

On May 3, 2024, the Laura Vicuña Foundation—Palawan joined the Walk for a Cause by DOLE to celebrate the 122nd Labor Day.

LVF MACARASCAS PALAWAN YES AHA

May 10-11. Laura Vicuña Foundation – Palawan had the YES AHA activity with the parents and the preparation for the Re-inspection of TESDA in the farm.

HAPPY FEAST OF MO. MARY DOMENICA MAZZARELLO

May 13. Laura Vicuña Foundation – Palawan celebrated the feast of our Mother Mary Domenica Mazzarello and the celebration of the Blessing of all the facilities of our LVFP Farm.

WORLD CHILDREN’s DAY 

On May 16, Laura Vicuna Palawan shared school supplies, clothes, and food packs with the students of Baruang Elementary School. Pope Francis declared May 16 World Children’s Day.

MAINS’S CAMP

On May 20-21, 2024, Laura Vicuna Foundation-Palawan held a Main’s Camp to learn about Mother Mazzarello’s life and places, her teachings, and her letters.

LAUDATO SI

We had a Laudato Si activity during the Feast Day Celebration of Mary Help of Christians: coastal cleanup, clean-up drive, proper waste segregation, and tree planting. The Educating Community of Laura Vicuña Foundation, Palawan, is committed to caring for our common home.

Cookout

May 25-27. ECCG—CEBU MINGLANILLA from Mary Help of Christian Cebu visited Palwan to conduct an outreach activity with the resident learners. They taught them how to interview, create profiles, and bake.

LVF MALIHAO, VICTORIAS CITY, NEG. OCC.

REGIONAL IT-BPM ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION
May 16. Mr. Francisco Dizon (LVF Vice President), Mrs. Maria Victoria Cuisia (LVF Board Member), Sr. Maria Guia Asparen, FMA (Directress) and Sr. Ernielyn Deypalan, FMA (Technical Directress) brings Laura Vicuña Foundation – Negros to the Regional IT-BPM Round table Discussion with IBPAP, City of Bacolod, BPOs, schools, and foundations. Bacolod City LGU organized this meeting as a gathering of minds to shape the future of the industry and community. (Thanks to Mrs. Joyce Dizon and Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia for accompanying their spouses, Francisco and Maria Victoria, respectively, to visit Laura Vicuña Foundation TVET Center in Malihao, Victorias City, Negros Occidental.) Together mold the future of the IT-BPM industry, fostering innovation and building strong partnerships for sustainable growth not only for Bacolod City but for Negros Island as well. According to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Philippines’ Information Technology and Business Process Management (IT-BPM) sector has been one of the best-performing and employment-generating activities in the past four years. Its global leadership in voice-based services and continuing improvements in non-voice and complex process outsourcing show the sector’s promising growth trajectory. With the presence of LVF Negros at the meeting, we have been introduced to new networks and partner companies that may enable us to participate in this promising and growing industry. This pushes us beyond our usual and familiar courses, but the Lord leads the way, and we are ready to follow new paths.

7TH SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES

May 31. The 7th Senior High School Commencement Exercises occurred at LVF Malihao, where 40 students successfully graduated. One of the ceremony’s highlights was the inspiring speech by the guest speaker, Mrs. Jonalyn Ayola, a past pupil. The event was graced by proud parents, friends, and the following visitors: Dr. Roger Z. Rochar – OIC Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Dep’t of Educ. SDO – Victorias City, OWWA-6 Regional Director Rizza Joy Moldes, Laura Vicuna Foundation (LVF) Executive Director, Sr. Maria Victoria Sta. Ana, FMA, and frequent visitors from Laura Vicuna Center in Cubao. The celebration was made even more special by the presence of guests from Israel, Israel’s Ambassador to the Philippines, his excellency Ilan Fluss, and his wife, Madame Gila; it was Ambassador Ilan who requested to visit LVF Malihao while he was having activities in Negros. They eagerly gave a spontaneous inspirational talk to the assembly, encouraging the students to study and work hard to be a better generation.

GRADE 11 OUTREACH PROGRAM

May 8. The Grade 11 students, accompanied by Sr. Therese Yvonne Jance, FMA, conducted an outreach program for the children of Par 5. This outreach aimed to let the students experience the joy of sharing. Being poor, they can also share their little with their poorest brothers and sisters. They prepared hand-made stuffed toys and toy cars for the children and catechized them on the Sign of the Cross. The day was lively and full of laughter with their gift-giving, unfreezers, and short program for the children and their mothers. The day began with a prayerful journey as the group recited the Holy Rosary while traveling to the location. This was particularly significant as May is dedicated to Mary, and the intentions included those of our country, the Institute, our community, our families, and the Holy Father. Indeed, it was a meaningful and enriching experience. 

EMPLOYEE’S LAKBAY ARAL 2024

May 12-15. The employees’ educational trip to Boracay Island went through. They were accompanied by Sr. Josefina D. Oliveros, FMA, School Administrator, and Sr. Ernielyn F. Deypalan, FMA, Technical Director. They used the school’s vehicle as their service on the way to Boracay. They had the chance to do a land tour and discovered a lot on the island of Boracay. The tour allowed them to explore the island’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and hidden gems. From pristine beaches to vibrant local markets, the employees and sisters immersed themselves in the beauty and charm of Boracay. It was a memorable experience that enriched their knowledge and created lasting memories of their time together in this tropical paradise.

SIKARAN CULMINATING ACTIVITY 2024

May 17. The LVF Malihao had their Sikaran Culminating Activity 2024 at the school’s multi-purpose hall. During the culmination, everyone lent their ears to Grand Master Romeo G. Banas as he elucidated the Historical Profile of Self-Defense and the words of encouragement of Hon. Andrei T. Delgado, guest speaker. Then, Certificates of Completion were given to the students after their Arnis demonstration, Martial Arts Exhibition, and Kata H Form. As their gratitude to the trainers and the guest speaker, Eurie Barredo, a TVET student, delivered his thank you message. The program ended with a closing remark from Master Reyziel C. Hinayan, trainer. The students were very thankful for Grand Master Romeo G. Banas and Master Reyziel C. Hinayan’s dedication and patience in teaching them the basic strikes and blocks in Arnis.

FEAST OF MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS

May 24. To celebrate the Feast of Mary Help of Christians, the LVF community (sisters, faculty, and students) participated in the Holy Eucharist at Mary Help of Christians Church. Three Salesians of Don Bosco concelebrated it, with Fr. Honesto “Nioret” Geronimo, SDB, as the main presider. The assembly listened to his sermon, which invoked Mary, our Mother, as the Help of Christians. After the mass, food was distributed to everyone.

GRATITUDE DAY 2024

May 3. The Laura Vicuña Foundation—Malihao radiated with warmth and appreciation as the FMA sisters, students, teachers, and support personnel gathered to commemorate Gratitude Day 2024 with the theme “With Mary, guided by the “dream,” we generate peace by taking care of our Common Home.” The celebration began with a mass presided over by Rev. Fr. Eligio Santos, SDB, followed by a short presentation from the LVF Malihao students. On this particular occasion, Sr. Ma. Guia S. Asparen, FMA, School Directress, had her inspirational message, and Laura’s Garden was opened after it was repaired and beautified. After the program, everyone enjoyed their lunch, promoting a sense of togetherness and shared enjoyment among all involved.

LVF-QC WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

LVF SOLIDARITYSERYE 
Thanks to the generosity of LVF’s donors, our Child Protection Community is still blessed with food, rice, toys, and clothing items like ukay-ukay (thrifting) for every catechesis. We are grateful to sponsors and supporters like RFM Corp., Breadtalk, and Purple Oven, who allow us to share their benefits. These precious children and their parents are so grateful for this activity that it is evident on their faces. God never abandons us and supports us in becoming outstanding servant leaders.

CATECHESIS

In the Catholic tradition, Flores de Mayo is a festival held in the Philippines during May. It is a devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of Jesus, through prayers, processions, and flower offerings. Laura Vicuña Foundation Sr. Phebe Lacse, FMA, Sr. Sarah Robas, FMA, and Social Workers traveled to LVF CPC areas. They delivered spiritual information about the Holy Trinity and the significance and importance of the Holy Rosary.

PASWI-COP

The Philippine Association of Social Workers Inc. (PASWI) encourages Social Workers nationwide to nurture their spirituality by joining the Weekly Wednesdate habitꟷthe Circle of Prayer! Various PASWI chapters from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao co-host this prayer Circle. The participants could share their experiences of God’s goodness and miracles. They shared how the Word of God transforms them to become the best version of themselves.