Written by Renz Marione Bulseco* - VYLH Mindanao Region 11
Last October 21-22, 2011, the VYLH Mindanao, spearheaded by the VYLH Region 13 youth leaders, conducted its first regional camp held at Luciana Inn & Restaurant, Butuan City, Philippines. The said camp was attended by 25 participants hailing from different provinces under the CARAGA Region (Region 13). Most of the participants were SK Chairmans or youth leaders in their respective municipalities.
Like any other VYLH camps, the first CARAGA-wide camp was filled with fun-filled activities and lectures about the Folic Acid Awareness, Importance of Newborn Screening and Rare Orphan Disorders organized by some of the Pioneer and K4 members of the said network.
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| CARAGA Volunteers |
"It took us a year to prepare this kind of activity. It was really, really hard, I tell you. Actually, this CARAGA-Wide camp was originally scheduled last year (2010), but due to lack of funds it didn't push through. But by God's Grace, the event became a reality. Everything was all worth it!", exclaimed Anthony Torralba, the VYLH Vice President for Mindanao.
Team building activities were also conducted to let the participants have a better understanding about the true meaning of leadership and volunteerism. Participants were also given the chance to present their action plans with regards to the network's advocacies.
Before the camp ended, a ceremonial baptismal rite was conducted and formally welcomed the new 25 members of VYLH Mindanao.
"I'm so happy na nadagdagan ng volunteers ang Mindanao. I am very optimistic with the coverage of Mindanao in the following months", Tita Peging Sur, one of the network's coordinators, said.
"I feel privileged to become part of this camp. I have learned so many things and I am motivated to impart my learnings to my barangay", said Edson Alejo, one of the participants of the camp.
To the new members of VYLH Mindanao, welcome!
Keep the fire burning!
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*Renz Marione Bulseco is the former Vice President for External Affairs of UP Mindanao Biological Society. He finished BS Biology (major in Ecology) in UP Mindanao. Renz became affiliated to the network during the Mindanao Island-wide Camp last July 2010. He currently works as a professional blogger and a freelance writer and photographer.
