03/06/2026
A bag filled with school supplies may seem simple for some, but for many children, it became a powerful beginning of hope, confidence, and dreams.
The 2026 Visayas Area Launch of Bags of Hope: “Project BAGETS Year 2 – Bags at Gamit para sa mga Bagets” was more than just a distribution activity. It was a mission to empower underprivileged children as they prepared to open another chapter of their educational journey for the incoming school year.
On May 29, 2026, at Cularima Elementary School, Brgy. Cularima, Catarman, Northern Samar, JCI Catarman Cocoking, together with JCI Metro Iloilo Dinagyang, successfully conducted this meaningful initiative under the leadership of 2026 Visayas Area Chair for Bags of Hope and 2026 Immediate Past President of JCI Catarman Cocoking, Dave Esquerra Gallano, and 2026 Visayas Area Vice President, Atty. Vincent Von Nogra.
The project brought smiles, inspiration, and hope to 200 students from Cularima Elementary School and Cag-abaca Elementary School through the distribution of school bags, school supplies, white t-shirts, and a feeding program.
The activity was graced by the presence of Hon. Caryl Castillo, Punong Barangay of Brgy. Cularima, Catarman, Northern Samar; Sir Gerald Yamogan, School Head of Cularima Elementary School; and Sir Ruben Fulgar, School Head of Cag-abaca Elementary School. Also joining the event were 2021–2022 Local Organization President Anthony Jay Estremera and 2023 Local Organization President Randy Tobiaso, whose presence further strengthened the spirit of service and community partnership.
Beyond the gifts distributed, the initiative reminded every child that their dreams matter and that despite life’s challenges, education can become their bridge toward a brighter future. Through fun-filled activities such as storytelling, face painting, parlor games, the “Dear Future Me” activity, and the Oath of Pay It Forward, the children were encouraged to dream big, believe in themselves, and aspire to become future leaders of their communities.
Because every child deserves not only school supplies but also encouragement, inspiration, and people who believe in their future.
JCI Catarman Cocoking and JCI Metro Iloilo Dinagyang extend their heartfelt gratitude to all partners, sponsors, donors, volunteers, teachers, parents, and stakeholders who made this project possible. Special thanks to our Donors and Sponsors;
2026 AVP Vincent Von Nogra
Rep. Niko Raul SJ Daza
2025 LO President Dave E. Gallano
JCI Mem. Jan Rey Arzadon Florano
2019 LO President Atty. Arthur Eric L. Sabong
2026 EVP Vanessa Love Lacsamana
2206 LO President Atty. Joy E. Presado
JCI Mem. Atty. Jem Sanico
2021-2022 LO President Anthony Jay B. Estremera
2023 LO President Randy Tobiaso
2024LO President Frank Santiago Saises
JCI Mem. Maida Dato Broto
JCI Mem. Lady Ann Mijares-rubillos
Thank you for your generosity and unwavering support. Your contributions helped fill not only the children’s bags but also their hearts with hope and inspiration.
We would also like to sincerely thank our dedicated Working Committees;
2026 Area Chair for Bags of Hope - Dave Gallano
2026 LO President- Atty. Joy E. Presado
2026 EVP- Vanessa love Lacsamana
2026 Board of Directors;
Markrey Francis Rosalita Diaz
Robilles Alcantara Chua Mhack
Rhyan Christian Pragas
Michael Frumenz Lagrimas
Jann Mai Cheal Tejano
Michael Arididon
JCI Catarman Cocoking Members;
Allan Paul Loyogoy
Peter Rock
Eugenio Paredes
Rey Garabel Delos Santos
2026 JCI Babies;
Mark Deverson Delegenio
Cyre
Thank you for your hard work, commitment, and teamwork in making Bags of Hope 2026 a success. Your efforts behind the scenes helped bring hope, joy, and inspiration to 200 young learners. Thank you for your unwavering service and for making a difference in the lives of these children.
Together, we continue to sustain the future, one child, one bag, and one dream at a time.
📸 Michael Arididon
