Many students as young as 6 years old have to endure travel 5 hours a day on foot over mountainous terrain sometimes in bad weather just to study. Students have to choices, to go to school and study or work in the fields like many of their parents. Education is the only way out of poverty for them. At times lunch is boiled bananas or sweet potatoes only but many students endure for education gives them hope for a better future. The school through some donor occasionally tries to provide a meaningful lunch at least once or twice a month depending on the availability of food donations. And with the Philippines hard hit with inflation with rice prices increasing by almost 20%, parents wonder if kind hearted individuals will continue to support the students and the school.
Education is a powerful tool that not only shapes the minds of individuals but also strengthens the bonds within a community. In line with this noble belief, the Serafin V. Aguilar Chapter No. 10 has taken a remarkable step forward in fostering education and community spirit. Proudly collaborating with the Filipino DeMolay Singapore Alumni Chapter No. 46, the esteemed Manuel M. Abello Masonic Lodge No. 260, Scottish Rite Masonry Visayas Bodies and Rusi Foundation embarked on an inspiring journey for Brigada Eskwela 2023.
On a significant day, August 18, 2023, a collective sense of purpose and dedication came alive at the Miguel Mondia Elementary School in Sitio Bais, Brgy. Yubo, La Carlota City. It was a day filled with enthusiasm and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of young learners and their immediate community.
Unveiling the Collaborators:
The Serafin V. Aguilar Chapter No. 10, known for its dedication to community service, joined hands with the Filipino DeMolay Singapore Alumni Chapter No. 46, the esteemed Manuel M. Abello Masonic Lodge No. 260, Scottish Rite Masonry Visayas Bodies and Rusi Foundation. Together, they showcased the strength that unity can bring to a cause as noble as education.
A Transformative Day:
Brigada Eskwela 2023 was not just a day of manual labor; it was a day of transformation. Volunteers from these organizations rolled up their sleeves, armed with tools and determination, to make the school environment conducive to learning. From cleaning classrooms and repairing facilities to repainting walls and sprucing up the surroundings, the volunteers poured their efforts into creating an inspiring educational space.
Empowering the Young Minds:
The heart of education lies in empowering young minds. By actively participating in Brigada Eskwela, these volunteers demonstrated their commitment to providing students with an environment that nurtures curiosity, growth, and aspiration. Through their actions, they sent a powerful message to the community, showing that collective efforts can pave the way for brighter futures.
Community Spirit in Action:
Beyond the physical transformations, Brigada Eskwela 2023 showcased the indomitable spirit of community collaboration. Volunteers from different backgrounds and walks of life came together, united by the shared goal of enriching education. This event became a testament to the fact that when a community joins forces, barriers are broken, and positive change becomes an attainable reality.
Overall, the Serafin V. Aguilar Chapter No. 10, along with the Filipino DeMolay Singapore Alumni Chapter No. 46, the esteemed Manuel M. Abello Masonic Lodge No. 260, Scottish Rite Masonry Visayas Bodies and Rusi Foundation, set an inspiring example of what can be achieved through unity, compassion, and a shared vision. Brigada Eskwela 2023 will forever be remembered as a day when education and community spirit converged, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all involved. As the students of Miguel Mondia Elementary School continue their educational journey in an enhanced environment, they can be reminded that they are supported by a community that truly cares. Next year Masons from Manuel M. Abello Masonic Lodge No. 260 and Scottish Rite Masonry Visayas Bodies will try to bring the youngest DeMolays specially those just in High School and those entering college so that they can appreciate the value of education more.
Written by: Dad Baruch Chaim M. Tionko, Manuel M. Abello Masonic Lodge No. 260 & Bro. Ken Lim, Master Councilor, Serafin V. Aguilar Chapter No. 10
Edited by Bro. John Louie Marfil, Chev., LOH, FDSAC #46 PP
