02/06/2025
| Nurturing Wisdom, Strength, and Knowledge—Children’s Camp 2025
The Local Government Unit of Dumaguete City, through the City Social Welfare and Development Office, successfully held its annual Children’s Camp with the theme: “Batang May Kaalam, Kusog, ug Kahibalo: Barog Batok sa Pang-abuso!” The event took place in Amlan, Negros Oriental, on May 29-30, 2025, bringing together 130 young participants for two days of learning, growth, and empowerment.
The camp opened with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Msgr. Albert Erasmo G. Bohol, Parish Priest of St. Andrew the Apostle Parish in Amlan. In his homily, Msgr. Bohol highlighted the importance of kaalam (wisdom), kusog (strength), and kahibalo (knowledge) in every child, emphasizing that these qualities should be rooted in Christ’s teachings. He reminded everyone that these virtues, guided by Christian morals and perseverance, serve as an anchor in facing life’s challenges.
The official opening program followed, led by Mrs. Lilibeth A. Filipinas, Department Officer of the City Social Welfare and Development Office. She underscored the vital role of the dedicated team headed by Mrs. Mercy T. Suringa, Children Focal, whose coordination with day-care teachers, the local DRRM, PNP, and other agencies made the camp possible.
On the first day, the children engaged in interactive activities facilitated by Mrs. Aiza P. Aranas and Mr. Lord Kent Mariño (teachers from the SDO of Dumaguete City), and Mr. Reynold Dote (teacher from SDO Negros Oriental). These sessions focused on combating OSAEC (Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Among Children) and CSAEM (Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Materials). Through fun and enriching activities, the children developed their interpersonal skills, addressed areas for self-improvement, and embarked on journeys of self-discovery.
The evening featured a lively Social Night Activity, inspired by a parody of Pinoy Big Brother (PBB), facilitated by Hon. Prince Rosher S. Ireño, incumbent National Federation of Supreme Secondary Learner Government. During this solidarity night, the children showcased their talents and skills in a variety show, reinforcing the lessons learned from the day’s sessions.
The second day began with a solemn and refreshing Morning Devotion led by Mr. Gerard R. Patrimonio. This was followed by a Cook-off Morning Activity, where the children learned basic life skills, particularly cooking, as they prepared eggs for their breakfast.
A highlight of the second day was a session on Mental Health and Wellness conducted by Mrs. Peeluche Manila, Registered Guidance Counselor of Valencia National High School. The children expanded their understanding of mental health, participated in grounding and mindfulness activities, and learned effective coping mechanisms.
The camp concluded with a closing program featuring a plenary evaluation and the awarding of certificates of participation and special awards for outstanding campers.
This year’s Children’s Camp truly embodied its theme, instilling wisdom, strength, and knowledge in every Dumaguetnon child. The city’s commitment to equipping its youth to stand against abuse and violence was evident in every aspect of the camp.
Note: Parents and guardians signed waivers and gave consent for the LCPC Dumaguete City to publish photos from the event.
