It was another unforgettable experience for the children sponsored by the SOSCFI when they visited Monte del Rosario in La Union, Philippines. La Union is a popular tourist spot in the northern island of Luzon, known for its historic culture, museums and beautiful resorts. The children were able to experience varying activities at Monte del Rosario, some of which, because of their impoverished upbringing, they have never done before.

The children enjoyed the common resort activities such as basking in the sun poolside, and enjoying the waterslides and amusements. But they were also able to enjoy popular cultural activities for Filipino children, such as fishing and climbing trees to enjoy the “fruits of their labor,” and storytelling. They caught 39 fishes in total, 36 of which were caught by the girls. They were allowed to climb mango trees to hand-pick mangoes to eat. Volunteer Nene Soriano taught puppetry and storytelling about folk tales from the different provinces in Philippines where the children are from. Most of the stories are passed on from generation to generation about family, survival, and parents who brought their children to the city for better lives. These stories were kept alive in the hearts of the parents who needed to instill the values of home to their children.

One particular region, the Cordillera region where La Union is located, speaks much about love, sacrifice, dignity, and honor. At first, the children found it hard to understand and connect their experience of poverty with such stories. However, once they positioned themselves in the roles of their parents in the most trying times, they developed a new understanding of the importance of their family.

The children also toured the Pepsi Cola bottling company in La Union, an ostrich farm, the La Union Museum as well as the centuries-old Agoo Basilica, where they were exposed to the rich culture of the Ilocanos, or the people of northern Luzon.

During the last day at Monte del Rosario, the closing ceremonies celebrated the graduates and honor students sponsored by the SOSCFI through the Missionary Sisters. Special mention was made to high school Class Valedictorians Hanna Gano and Rosalinda Mananeng, who both also received medals for Academic Excellence and several Leadership Awards. Other high school graduates honored were Michael Mangusan for receiving a medal for Leadership and Brendo Paraan for a citation in Journalism. Also Others also honored were: Jerry Manugan, Daisy Ramon and Allen Paul Ongngad, who finished the year in the top 10 of their respective classes, and Michelle Ulao, who received First Honors in the Grade 4 level.

Additionally, SOSCFI was extremely proud of three college scholars who also graduated this year. Dennis Dawas received a Bachelor of Science in Education, Freddie Sison received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Jennylyn Amugao completed her Associates degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management.

Two years ago, Loreto Bermisa passed his board exams in Criminology. Today, he is a licensed Police Officer, after having completed his training this past April. He inspires other young boys who also aspire to become Police Officers someday.

As a final farewell, the children who celebrated their birthdays in April were given a birthday party complete with a chocolate cake. For many, this was the first time they truly celebrated their birthdays.

The SOSCFI was established in response to the growing population of homeless children in Baguio City, Philippines. The children, and their families sponsored by the program, are provided clothing, food, and education. For a short time every summer, the children are treated to an outing to celebrate their accomplishments and instill in them hope of a life that is reachable with hard work and dedication.