Don Bosco Philippines South Province

by: Samantha Legaspi

The Don Bosco Youth Center – Lawaan hosted its Soirée on September 29, 2024, at the Don Bosco Formation Center, Pilgrim Hall. The theme of the event was “UNITED IN JOY AND CELEBRATION,” with the event title: “PANAG-UBAN: Celebrating YOU-th in a Bosconian Way.” The title emphasizes the word “YOU,” addressing each individual within the collective, highlighting the idea that every young person is an important member of the community being celebrated. This event brought together the youth of the Don Bosco Youth Center for an afternoon filled with fun, entertainment, and meaningful celebration.

Soirée 2024 honored the birthday celebrants from June to September. The event began with a prayer led by LOA and the Choir, followed by an icebreaker and introductory remarks by John Lorenzo Oflas, President of DBYC, and a GTKY activity titled “Passing of the Dice.” The atmosphere was filled with excitement as friends and peers gathered to share an afternoon of fun, laughter, meaningful interactions, and delightful surprises.

During the program, Jesha Marie Tan, Vice President of the BIBLOS Sodality, announced the winner of the Poetry Making Contest. Kent Bryle Dakay, President of the KOA Sodality, also announced the Knights of the Altar (KOA) of the Month for September.

Rev. Fr. Vince Michael Sabal, SDB, DBYC–Lawaan Youth Director, gave the concluding remarks, followed by the candle-blowing ceremony for the June to September celebrants. Afterward, the food committee and other youth leaders distributed a variety of delectable foods and beverages, and everyone enjoyed a festive “salo-salo.”

Soirée 2024 provided a platform for the youth to showcase their talents, celebrate their unique contributions, and experience the warmth of the Bosconian community. With music, dance, and special presentations, Soirée 2024 left every birthday celebrant and attendee with memories that will last a lifetime, embodying the spirit of unity and celebration among the youth at Don Bosco.