Don Bosco Philippines South Province

by: Jan Bernice Ceniza

July 10-12, 2024 – The 3-day Member’s Camp, entitled “Camp Agape,” took place in the vicinity of Don Bosco Formation Center-Lawaan. The camp was productive and fruitful, and here are the highlights of each day:

Day 1 – Upon entering the DBFC, campers from different youth sodalities were greeted with smiles and great energy from the DBYC Youth Leaders. Each camper was provided with a name tag, which they were instructed to wear at all times during the camp’s duration. The event then kickstarted with high energy, thanks to Kuya John Lorenzo Oflas and Ate Leona Jane Villanueva, the hosts of the program. After a short GTKY (Getting to Know You) and flag-making activity, Rev. Fr. Vince Michael Sabal, SDB, Youth-In-Charge, gave a talk about the life of St. John Bosco.

Day 2 – The second day of the event started with a hearty meal to prepare the campers for a busy day. In the morning, Kuya Juvanil Alvarado, a DBYC Leader, shared and demonstrated the 21st Century Skills: the 4 Cs (Critical Thinking, Creativity, Collaboration, and Communication). In the afternoon, the campers applied their knowledge of the 4 Cs through an Amazing Race prepared by the DBYC Lawaan Leaders. The day ended with an affirmation circle, inspired by the “circle of love” theme, where members affirmed each other. Ate Bianca Balvez, a Camp Agape Camper, concluded the day with a good night talk.

Day 3 – The third day started with the campers attending a 6 a.m. mass presided over by Rev. Fr. Erwin Joey Cabilan, SDB. A group photo op took place after the mass, followed by breakfast. Campers were then asked to do their chores as part of their formation in the camp. After completing their chores, they prepared for an outing at Gallego Private Resort in Biasong Talisay. Upon arrival, the culminating program for Camp Agape began. After the program, campers were given the whole afternoon to swim and enjoy.

The key takeaways for the members from the camp were the true meaning of “Agape” or unconditional love, the development and strengthening of their 4 Cs skills, teamwork, and leadership skills, and the importance of discipline in terms of time, actions, and words. They also made strong bonds with other youth members from different sodalities. Additionally, they learned about the roots and foundation of a Don Bosco Youth Center Member. Overall, this year’s Camp Agape was one for the books and is definitely a core memory to cherish and remember forever.