Don Bosco's Feast Day

Article Written by: Karen Castigador, Youth Group Animator (Savio)

January 22, 2013, a day after the feast of Señor Sto Niño…

All Bosconians all over the world joyfully celebrated the Opening Salvo for the Feast Day of Father and Teacher of Youth, St. John Bosco. The members of DBYC – Pasil prepared a special rosary in honor of their beloved Saint. This was headed by the Youth Animators and Leaders of DBYC – Pasil.

Every evening, different youth groups were tasked to take part in the novena prayers. For the ‘Triduum’ active youth leaders and animators planned a series of activities after every rosary. It involved games, a quiz bowl, and an obstacle course. On the first day of the triduum, a blind volleyball game was organized. The children were divided into two groups for the activity. There were lots of screams and running. It was fun to watch to members as they expressed excitement in playing the game. On the second day of the triduum, a quiz bowl took place dubbed “1, 2, 3, GO”. All members joined the quiz to help sharpen their knowledge about St. John Bosco. On the third day of the triduum, an obstacle course was organized. 10 representatives from three groups need to get through a maze, and then race through a path with a sack on both feet and then go through a narrow spot made of a straw rope for one to win the game. Of course, everyone was in high spirits as they enjoyed themselves.

During the feast day, the members were all encouraged to attend the Holy Mass at 6pm in the parish. The Church was almost filled with devotees of St. John Bosco. After the mass, a procession was held around the streets of Suba and Pasil. After the procession, DBYC members went to the DB Gym for a special rosary. After the rosary, a variety show took place. Different Youth Groups showcased their talents by dancing to the tune of Don Bosco songs. There were also games and the awarding of prizes for the past activities during the Triduum Days. After which, all the members (around 150) were given snacks (burger and tetra-packed juice) which was sponsored by some good benefactors.

It was a great evening and hopefully for the next years to come, may the works of St. John Bosco be spread even more. 

View our Photos: http://www.facebook.com/donbosco.pasil/photos_albums

More Fun in Pasil, Cebu! (Feast of Sto. Niño)

Article Written by: Kenneth Taneo, Youth Group Animator (Savio)

“It’s more fun in Cebu.” – a quotation derived from the recent Department of Tourism’s campaign slogan, but indeed, this holds truth. This is evidently shown in every 3^rd Sunday of the month of January wherein we Cebuanos celebrate the Feast of our Patron, ‘Señor Sto. Niño’. During this event, we wholeheartedly give praise, thanks, and glorify Him for the bountiful graces we have received.

We are fortunate here in Pasil since our Parish’s Patron is Sto. Niño as well. We had an Opening Salvo by means of a parade along the streets of Suba and Pasil after which we solemnly celebrated the 1^st novena mass presided by Fr. Adrian “Andy” Mendoza, SDB (Parish Priest). In the Youth Center, we also had our daily novena prayers.

Traditionally, Don Bosco Youth Center prepares a program called the ‘YOUTH NITE” as a simple means of showcasing the talents, skills, abilities, and potentials of the young people of the area. Above everything else, the ‘YOUTH NITE’ is organized yearly as a way of expressing our gratitude towards God. This year’s theme and storyline was that of a ‘Movie Marathon’ mainly because it was inspired from the different movies that people have seen like Titanic, Charlie’s Angels, etc. The program was a success for the organizers have evaluated and arrived at the conclusion that they have conveyed the message of the program that no matter what kind of praising you’ll offer to God, as long as it comes from the heart, it is already in itself a way of expressing gratitude to Him.

Within the novena days, our parish had also prepared some activities and programs that have strengthened the participation and confidence of the people especially in showing off their talents. Some activities worthy of note is the Parish Nite, and the Halad – different chapels and clusters offered a Sinulog Dance as an offering to the Child Jesus. Of course, the DBYC also joined in rendering the Sinulog Dance in front of the people of Suba and Pasil.

The day before the feast day came, so many devotees woke up early to join the annual fluvial parade. According to the local news, there were around 248 vessels who joined the said event. In fact, most of the vessels rented were from the people of Suba and Pasil since it has been a part of the culture to start the so-called ‘Disperas’ with a bang. Afterwards, the people paraded the streets in which those who participated in the ‘Halad’ repeated their performances with grander costumes and more-synced dance steps. In the afternoon, people once again gathered inside the Church to attend the Pontifical Mass presided by Msgr. Labajo of Talisay City, Cebu.

Sunday, the actual Feast of the Child Jesus… many people crowded the streets and went to the different houses to celebrate the fiesta. So many devotees had much prepared for their visitors and relative for they want to serve them the best food possible. Somewhere else in Cebu particulary the Fuente area, tourists witnessed the Sinulog Festival (dubbed as the mother of all festivals in the Philippines). It was a sight to behold as colorful costumes, drum beats, and awesome choreography made the event more exciting. In the evening, it is obvious that people may have retired early to their beds from the day’s fun and revelry… but for teenagers like me, there’s still enough time to go to disco bars to continue to celebrate this great event with the thought that this should be a day that would end with lots of good memories for my friends and I.

View our Photos: http://www.facebook.com/donbosco.pasil/photos_albums

DBYC Xmas 2012

Article written by: Christine Umpad, DBYC member (Savio)

 

Every year, there is that season that we always anticipate to come – Christmas. Everyone, whether you are a child, youth or even an adult – all is excited about this. Why? Because this is the season of gift-giving, family gather, and almost daily parties. But do we really understand the real essence of Christmas?

All of us has his/her own way or tradition of celebrating this feast – buying luxurious gifts and clothes, going to some place to unwind, preparing for parties and many more. Yet, there are people who (in silence) choose to celebrate Christmas by helping those who are less fortunate than them. They reach out to seek for people that need their assistance esp. in the ‘material’ way. Don Bosco Youth Center is always lucky to have these people. They are those that are responsible for the success of our DBYC Christmas Party 2012. We had this celebration last December 22, 2012, 7.00pm at the Don Bosco – Pasil Gymnasium. Through the support of these benefactors and the Salesian Community, the DBYC members each received a “BUNDLE OF JOY – a package of items” and some clothing and a new pair of slippers. As one DBYC member said, “Nalipay kayo mi nga apil mi sa mga nakadawat ug pinaskuhan. Makatabang jud ni namu ug sa among pamilya (I’m really thankful that I am one of those who received a Christmas gift. This would be a great help to me and my family).”

Everyone wore a joyous smile. This joy is something that cannot be paid with any amount. They were very grateful to the benefactors and the Salesian Community. As a symbol of gratitude, they presented the best of their talents. A number of groups danced, some of them showcased their golden voice.

The DBYC’s benefactors were really blessed and will be truly blessed by God for they shared their blessings with us. I believe that this is the real essence of Christmas – the joy of sharing and loving. May God continue to shower His blessings and love to the benefactors and to their family and friends.

View our photos:  http://www.facebook.com/donbosco.pasil/photos_albums

INTRAMURALS 2012

written by: Krisha Mae Pastoriza | Wood and Furniture Technology  - Junior Trainee

Last August 16, 2012, we celebrated the 197^th birthday of the Father ad Teacher of Youth – Don Bosco. It wasn’t just an ordinary for all Bosconians esp. of DBTC – Pasil since it was also the beginning of the Intramurals. Bosconians were of high spirits as they coursed through the different activities for the day.

As a commemoration of the event, the day kicked off with the celebration of the Holy Mass. During the mass, the celebrating priest (Fr. Orly Borres, SDB) asked each of the departments to stand and say a virtue which they commonly share. Some of the virtues that was mentioned were Patience, Humility, Unity, Peace, Respect, Enthusiasm, Love – these virtues are a reflection of an Ideal Bosconian.

After the Mass, the different departments had their photos taken. Bosconians showed off their friendly smiles and cheerful character during the photo shoot. They continued to show their smiles and joy as they paraded around the streets of Suba and Pasil. Though the heat was intense, Bosconians continued to show their endurance and pleasant manner. Arriving at the Don Bosco Gym, everyone stood proudly in front of the Philippine Flag as the National anthem was sung. Then, a prayer was sung led by a Junior Trainee. Fr. Orly welcomed each of the visitors and participants. After the welcome address, selected trainees marched with the DB Flag as others solemnly listened to a Hymn to Don Bosco. As the flag was raised, an enthusiastic and loud “Viva, Don Bosco” was heard all over the compound. Silence filled the covered court as the students waited for the Intramurals Torch was to be lighted up. Once it was lighted, an earsplitting applause then followed. A solemn promise was made by each of the participants as they recited the Oath of Sportsmanship. Then, Fr. Jude Albarando, SDB declared the Intramurals officially open.

Some highlights of the Opening of the Intramurals include the Flag-Raising Competition and Cheer Dance Competition. Here are the results of the different competitions:

§  Flag-Raising Competition (Wood and Furniture Techonology – Juniors)

§  Banner Design Competition

o   1^st – Wood and Furniture Technology – Juniors

o   2^nd – Mechanical Technology – Juniors

o   3^rd  - Automotive Technology – Juniors

§  Cheerdance Competition

o   1^st – Mechanical Technology – Seniors

o   2^nd – Small Engine

o   3^rd – Wood and Furniture Technology – Seniors

§  3-point Shootout

o   Administration and Instructors Team

§  3-man Shootout

o   Wood and Furniture Technology – Juniors

§  Obstacle Shot

o   Small Engine

           

Indeed, it was a tiring day. But at the same time, it was a fulfilling day for everyone as all went home with big smiles painted on their faces.

Mass of the Holy Spirit | Parents' Orientation | Showcase of Talents

Written by: Rey Anthony Ocier | Mechanical Technology - Senior Trainee

July 7 2012: a half-day affair with Parents, Trainees, and DBTC staff defined by thanksgiving to our Loving God and a showcase of talents.

This day proved to be a fulfilling day that marked the opening of a new semester for the Training Center. It was also a venue to welcome the new Junior Trainees as well as the returning Senior Trainees. 

The day opened with a Holy Mass which where the trainees proved themselves ready for spiritual service. Some trainees served as part of the Priest’s assistants dressed in Immaculate white, while others helped in animating the liturgy as members of the choir that led the singing of the songs and psalms for the Mass.

After the Mass, it was followed by the introduction of the DBTC staff and the Orientation of the Parents that was officiated by the instructors.

At the end of the Orientation, everyone gathered inside the gymnasium for the program. The program was certainly a revelation as Trainees (mostly Junior Trainees) showed their personal talents and shared them to a supportive crowd of fellow Trainees, parents, instructors, and DBTC staff. As we saw the dance moves of the Automotive Juniors, Garments, and small engine trainees and as we listened to the songs sang by the choir... it just goes to show the giftedness of each Bosconian – the willingness to share it for the benefit of others.

As a trainee myself, I can’t help but be amazed at my co-trainees. It would seem that all they know is have some fun, but given the opportunity, they can also be very responsible in terms of serious matters. As my companions shared their talents, I also shared my talent as I helped in the decoration and design of the stage both for the mass and the program. Being able to help in my little ways is a fulfillment for me, but I consider it a big fulfillment to see my co-trainees, my friends, my brothers, to be able to help share their talents as well.

School Year 2012-2013

The Lord has sent a multitude of young people in the care of Don Bosco...

Don Bosco Training Center - Pasil starts its school year with countless blessings from the Almighty...

• The number of trainees has significantly increased in comparison to the number of the previous year's enrollment. Currently, we have 38 Seniors Trainees and 89 Junior Trainees. Hopefully, these young people would find their stay at DB - Pasil an enriching experience (spiritually, mentally, physically).
  
• Fr. Adrian Mendoza, SDB remains the Rector of the Salesian Community and Parish Priest of Sto. Niño Parish. Fr. Orlando Borres, SDB takes on the roles of Administrator, Training Center Director, and Youth Center Director. Fr. Jude Albarando, SDB ministers to the needs of the parishioners, trainees, and youth center members through the reception of the Sacraments. Bro. John Paul Rasay, SDB spends his second year of Practical Training. The Salesian Community is truly grateful for the work rendered by Fr. Abundio Bacatan, SDB as Administrator of DB - Pasil for two years. May our Loving Father bless him as he takes his new responsibilities at Don Bosco Technology Center - Labangon. 

• Fr. Andy would be gone for a few months as he travels to the USA for missionary talks. In Fr. Andy's absence, Fr. Jude will take the responsibilities as parish priest. May the Lord keep him safe and in good health.

"DA MIHI ANIMAS COETERA TOLLE"
- Don Bosco


P.S.
here's a link of the recent activities of DB - Pasil: http://www.facebook.com/donbosco.pasil/photos

DBTC: Improvements and Damages

It is known to many that the structures of DB - Pasil aren't as good as it used to be. Wear and Tear has taken its toll on the walls, rooms, and other parts of the building. thankfully, through the generosity of our benefactors, we have been able to make some improvements in the building.

Improvements:

Improvements on the dilapidated Refectory Floor. 

Installation of grills in the Rooms and Corridor for security reasons.

Unfortunately, together with the improvements that were made, we have been struck by new damages. Last February 6, 2012, the islands of Negros and Cebu were hit by an earthquake. The people (Trainees, Staff, Salesians) of DB -Pasil were all safe, but the building was another reason to worry about. Cracks appeared all over the place - some cracks are wide enough for a finger to fit through.

Despite these problems, we are full of hope that Divine Providence is on our side. We pray for God's grace to bestow on us the support we need to continue our work for the young people of Pasil. In His time, we fervently wish that the entire renovation of the compound would soon be a reality. We would like to thank everyone who have generous to us in one way or another. Rest assured of God's reward for you in His Eternal Kingdom!

St. John Bosco, pray for us!

Kudos, JENYFER VILLAGONZALO, RN!

Don Bosco Youth Center has received another blessing from our Loving Father in the academic victory of Jenyfer Villagonzalo. Jennifer was one of the 22,760 who passed the recent Nursing Licensure exam. Jenyfer worked her way through college as a scholar of DB - Pasil. Despite the rigorous study load of her college course, it is truly awe-inspiring how she has managed to balance her time between studying and helping out in the operations of DB-Pasil. 

Congratulations, Jen! As you embark on a new journey in the profession you have chosen, may you always strive to be a witness to Christ's love for all and may you always keep the values that Don Bosco has taught you... Godspeed! ^_^

"DO YOUR ORDINARY DUTIES, EXTRAORDINARILY WELL."

  - DON BOSCO

DBTC (JANUARY 31 2012): DON BOSCO'S FEAST / DBTC INTRAMURALS

Feast Day of Don Bosco. Today, the trainees had the opening of their intramurals for this semester. It began with a mass at the Sto. Niño Parish – Fr. Orly presided the mass. After the mass, the trainees paraded around the area of Suba and Pasil to announce the opening of their intramurals and the Feast Day of Don Bosco. As they ended the parade at the DB Gym, the Opening Ceremonies of the Intramurals commenced with the lighting of the torches, presentation of the DB Flag, recitation of the Oath of Sportsmanship, and the Dance Contest per section. For the Dance Contest, the Automotive Seniors bagged the 1^st place, followed by the Woodworking trainees at 2^nd place, and the Garments trainees in 3^rd place.

In the afternoon, Parlor games and Indoor games were organized by the instructors. Indoor games included Table Football, Chess, and Billiards. After the games, Fr. Orly gave everyone snacks of Bread and Chocolate Drink to add to the celebration.

CHRISTMAS PARTY 2011

by: Karen Castigador

    DBYC MEMBER (SAVIO CLUB)

December 23 , 2011 was a day to be remembered for the Don Bosco Youth Center family as it marked the most anticipated event of the institution. It was also the day for all animators , leaders and members  to celebrate the joy of our savior being born, JESUS CHRIST. Tonight was the Christmas party of the DBYC. 

Everyone dressed up for the occasion and waited in anticipation for the party to begin. Unlike any other parties, the event started with a holy rosary that was animated by the leaders of the DBYC and followed by a delicious dinner sponsored by our benefactors. Each member received a packed meal of spaghetti,  fried chicken,rice, and a slice of leche flan along with a soda. Everyone was so excited to receive their dinner.

             

After dinner, the Christmas Caroling Competition started. It was opened by our very own rector, Fr. Andrian Mendoza. Blazing performances were made by the different youth groups: Friends of Laura Vicuna (FLV) ,Sport's Club, Auxilium, KOA, Biblos and Juventus. Each member hit the floor as they showed their ever wondrous talents to the public. There were also production numbers from the members of the choir and games to set off the heat of the said competition. And to our surprise, a special number was presented by the Salesians of Don Bosco - Pasil. Fr. Andy, Fr. Boni , Fr. Orly and Bro. JP showcased one of their unforgetable performance on stage.

Finally, " Bundles of Joy " were distributed to every child. The sizes of the gifts were clustered A, B, C, and D depending on the attendance and performance of each member for the year. The children were called one by one to get their bundles. It was such a mesmerizing and amazing part for we felt the real essence of Christmas. Along with the distribution was the awarding of those members and animators who did their best to become role models to their fellow Bosconians. Awarded as the DBYC member of the season was Biblos member, Korina Tabay and as the Outstanding Animator is Sport's Club animator, Fritz Villanueva. After which,the awarding of winners for the competition then took place... The KOA got the trophy for 3rd place, followed by the FLV in second place and the Sports Club who brought home the bacon as they emerged the champions for this years Caroling Competition.

With this, we can always say that we really are a family for we  always do our best to participate in all activities so it may be a fruitful and succesful one. However, without the help of our Salesians, Benefactors and Divine Providence, any endeavor would never be possible... and so our heartfelt gratitude our Loving God, our Blessed Mother, our Benefactors, and our Salesians.

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY DAYS 2011

By: John Kenneth Taneo
        NATIONAL ASSEMBLY DAYS DELEGATE (DECEMBER 2-4 2011)
                          YOUTH ANIMATOR, DON BOSCO - PASIL

December 15, 2010 – December 16, 2011 is the Year of the Youth. A year that is full of programs, activities and formations that will strengthen the faith of today’s young people. One of these events was held last December 2-4, 2011. During these days the Salesian Youth Movement or commonly known as SYM celebrated an occasion entitled, “SYM NADS 2011” with the theme: ”Go and bear fruit – fruit that will last” and it was held at Don Bosco Technology Center ( DBTC). It was a gathering of the youth from the different Don Bosco settings all over the Philippines. Each setting had its own delegates/ participants. 

The said Assembly was formally opened by an opening mass at the New Gym of DBTC and it was presided by Archbishop Jose Palma. Mostly the students of DBTC filled the gym and there were also young people from the nearby schools and parishes. Before it ended, the animators of DB-Pasil danced the theme song of CBCP year of the youth, “Make A Stand”. Afterwards, there was a youth forum entitled – “Love Rocks” which was handled by the Episcopal Commission on Youth. The participants actively participated in the discussions. Some asked questions directed at the guest speakers, who honestly shared their experiences. After the guest speakers shared their experiences, all participants were assigned in groups and they shared their insights and realizations on the given questions. Before the night ended, there was a Youth Jam prepared by the youth of DB- Lourdes. There were bands making pleasant sounds to our ears - youth nowadays really love these kinds of entertainment. Unfortunately, one of the participants met an accident. He sprained his arm and was brought to the hospital for further check-up.

The next day, the National Finals for the Bosco Quiz Bee was held. There were 2 categories- A (High School) and B(Elementary). In the category A, there were 5 contestants from different settings including DB- Pasil, while in category B, there were just 2 contestants. In category A, the first place and second place went to DB- Makati while in category B, DB – Caritas Don Bosco brought home the bacon. After a few hours, the participants gathered at the AVR for the talk of Fr. Mario Baclig, SDB. He talked about the nature and importance of youth groups as components of the SYM. He also shared the life cycle of a youth group. To sum up his talk, he gave 3 main topics/ ideas -“TODAY’S YOUTH IN TODAY’S WORLD”, “YOUTH GROUPS IN TODAY’S WORLD” and “YOUTH GROUPS IN SALESIAN MINISTRY”. After this, the participants had their workshops that were divided by sodalities/ associations and federations. After the workshops, 2 masses were held, one was in the AVR, which was headed by Fr. Allen Elevado, SDB, while the other one was held at the chapel presided by Fr. Favie Faldas, SDB. Dinner followed, and after dinner, a fellowship program took place wherein the different Don Bosco settings showcased their talents. After the program, everyone was asked to prepare themselves for the rosary as a fitting conclusion for a day full of work and fun.

The following day, everyone gathered at the AVR for the concluding Mass. The organizers acknowledged the efforts of the different committees and they also gave certificates for the different settings in participating this event most especially to those who volunteered themselves. Furthermore, it was followed by an awarding ceremony for the winners of the Bosco Quiz Bee. There was also a handover ceremony for the South Province/ SYM FIS as the new Secretariat of the SYM. After the mass, the participants began to bid goodbye to each other as they will be going back to their respective places. By bidding goodbye and going back to their settings, it is now time for them to apply what they have learned in the said event. And that’s the hardest challenge for each participant - that they will continue to strive and journey towards life with the Lord and that hopefully it will bear fruit… fruit that will last.

"Planted and Built-Up in Jesus Christ, Firm in the Faith!"

by: Cindy Castigador

               NATIONAL YOUTH DAYS DELEGATE (NOVEMBER 14-19 2011)

               YOUTH ANIMATOR, DON BOSCO - PASIL

This year's National Youth Day is very significant because this prestigious event falls within the CBCP's declaration of this year as the  year of the youth. The event was held at Manila, from November 14-19, 2011 with the theme of "Planted and Built Up in Jesus Christ, Firm in the faith." I am very grateful that I had taken part of this event. During the one week long activity,I had learned much! I enjoyed every moment with my co-pilgrims, facilitators and animators. We can distinguish three images on the theme of NYD namely: "PLANTED" - calls to mind a tree and the roots that feed it; "BUILT-UP"-refers to a construction of a house; "FIRM"-indicates growth in physical or moral strength. During the first plenary session with "Planted" as our topic, I learned a new version of the song Magtanim ay di biro. And it goes as follow:

"Matanim ay di biro, matuto kang yumuko, kung gusto mong matuto wag matakot mahulog.

(Magdusa, mamatay kung gusto mong mabuhay)2x"

The first image which is obviously the content of the song explains that of a tree which is firmly planted thanks to its roots, it would be blown away by the wind and eventually die. For me, the tree is referred to as person and the root is GOD. If you don't have faith in God, you will not eventually succeed. The second image is "BUILT-UP". Just as the roots of a tree keep it firmly planted in the soil, so the foundation of a house is going strong. Through our faith, we have been built up in God! In this topic, I realized that we should respond positively to God's call, trust him and put his words into practice. On the third topic, "Firm in the Faith", I was deeply touched with our group sharing. The topic was all about the issues and concerns of the youth and how can we solve it. 

The youth is the hope our nation. As a youth animator, I encourage all the youth out there to strengthen your faith in God. We are the future of the society as well as the church. Let us make our life meaningful and fruitful not only today but also for the rest of our lives. Let's stand firm in the faith, Do all works in love! Together, let's make a stand.

BUNDLES OF JOY - a gift of generosity

Christmas is around the corner once again. As we celebrate the joy of Jesus' birth, we remember the generosity and the love of God for his people. in the teachings of our faith, we imitate the generosity and love towards others. and is so much felt during the season of Christmas - a season when we share the blessings that God has showered upon us throughout our lives.

Through the years, Don Bosco Youth Center - Pasil has been so much blessed with people who've been helping in the mission of making the youth feel loved and appreciated for who they are.

Donations (goods and financial help) from the different parts of the world have been pouring in to make this coming Christmas an event to be remembered with much love and joy.

We'd like to particulary mention the generosity of Mrs. Lisa Delfin and her friends for the untiring support they've given our youth center since 2007. Our deepest gratitude to you and your friends, Mrs Lisa! Rest assured of our constant prayers for the intentions you have. Happy Holidays!

From:
The Salesian Community and the DBYC Youth of Pasil

 

COSTUME PARTY 2011

By: Christine Umpad (DBYC MEMBER)

Heavy rains poured down the night before the month of October bid us goodbye. But it didn’t hinder the celebration that took place in the court of Don Bosco Youth Center (DBYC) – Pasil. A party which wasn’t just a simple celebration, it is a celebration preparation for a greater occasion the following day – the All Saints’ Day.

People dressed as policemen, scouts and other authority in the society was here. But the thing that shocked me was when I saw some characters in fantasy books and movies coming to existence! Are they here to party with us?

All these people were actually in their costumes. This night was a costume party! It was the fourth costume party held in DBYC. The festive night turned the court into a new world that opened the door of reality to fantasy.

The author, Christine Umpad(right) together with her sister, Charlene (left) and their mother Glennie (center). 

The party started with a hearty meal. After each one of us had our fill, the program soon followed for us to enjoy the rest of the evening’s celebration. Fr. Orlando Borres, SDB officially opened the program. Each of the youth groups had its own representative for the “PA-STARAN” – the evening’s showcase of presentations.

Savio Friends Club brought down the house through their amazing dance number. A sort of funny children-dance was presented by the Biblos youth members that brought giggles among the crowd. Juventus showcased another face of their talents – singing, through the golden voices of their singing sirens. A cute dance was soon followed by the fairy-clad members of the Auxilium. And of course, the KOA members had their share of entertaining the audience with their dance number.

As expected in every contest, there would emerge winners. The band of Sports Club strummed their group to the third place. While the second place was owned by the Friends of Laura Vicuña (FLV), who reminded us that we must be united as one nation through their drama and dance. “ A musicale of the classical story - Sleeping Beauty with a twist!” – this was the reaction that the audience uttered when they saw the presentation of the group who bagged the first prize- the Don Bosco Children and Youth Choir ( DBCYC). With the effort they gave, they surely deserved to bring home the bacon.

What a night of surprises it was! The 2011 Costume Party was truly a highlight this month… an unforgettable experience and an event worth remembering to each one who witnessed the celebration. A memory that will be cherished forever!

BENEFACTORS: please support our cause...

Sto Niño Parish @ 41

The Sto. Niño Parish of Pasil celebrated its 41^st Anniversary of Foundation in jovial festivity. Headed by Fr. Andy Mendoza, the Rector of the Salesian Community and Parish Priest, the celebration began early in the morning, 7.45 am, with a parade which was joined in by the different groups of the parish. It was further enlivened by the reorganization of the DON BOSCO DRUM AND BUGLE CORPS leading the festive beat of drums and the cute groove of the majorettes. After the parade, everyone was invited to join a backgrounder of the parish’s history that was done inside the church. The energetic Fr. Andy (animated the whole audience)  with icebreakers and catchy tunes as he delivered his talk. 

The Foundation Day would not be complete without thanking the Almighty for the goodness and generosity He has blessed the people of Suba and Pasil. And so at 5.30 in the afternoon, everyone gathered in the church once again to celebrate the Holy Mass. It was presided by a true-blooded son of DB-Pasil, Fr. Orlando Borres. Fr. Boni Bacatan and Fr. Andy concelebrated in the Holy Mass.

After the mass, members of the church groups and chapels went straight to the Don Bosco Gymnasium for a fellowship of food and fun. The different groups prepared food and shared it with others during mealtime. After the meal, The Barangay Officials in close collaboration with the group JIBOREN, prepared a program as a closing activity for the much-honored event.  the program showcased the innumerable talents which Pasil has truly been blessed – from singing to dancing, the presenters really gave their best… with the cheers and shouts that the people exerted, it was obvious they had a great time.