The recently concluded “Agew na Pasasalamat cum Sharing of Blessings: ALAY BIYAYA PARA SA MGA BADJAO”on September 29, 2023 was a heartwarming outreach activity organized by the College of Teacher Education, Pangasinan State University, San Carlos Campus. The event aimed to extend a helping hand and share blessings with the Badjao community – people who are also known as sea-gypsies, originally from the island of Mindanao, who, by circumstances, reached Pangasinan.
Dr. Liza L. Quimson, Campus Executive Director, delivered the opening message, setting the tone for a day filled with love, learning, and giving.
𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕 1: 𝑺𝒊𝒎𝒖𝒍𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒆𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝑨𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒆𝒔
Part 1 of the event featured a series of simultaneous activities designed to address the various needs of the Badjao community:
Simple Math Tutorial. Mr Jayson C. Salvatiera, Chairperson of the Elementary Education Department, and Mr. Nick C. Caiga, faculty member of the General Education Department, both dedicated to imparting basic arithmetic skills, conducted a simple math tutorial to the Badjao community. The activity aimed at empowering these beneficiaries, especially the children, with basic math skills, ensuring that they have the tools for a brighter future.
Reading Tutorial. The Filipino department took charge of the reading tutorial, engaging the Badjao children in reading sessions. This activity encouraged a love for learning and literacy among the young participants.
Nail Cutting Tutorial for Mothers. Contractual faculty members provided a nail cutting tutorial for the Badjao mothers. This not only addressed hygiene concerns but also offered a moment of self-care and relaxation for these hardworking women.
Haircut for Fathers. Technology and Livelihood Education students demonstrated their skills by providing haircuts for the Badjao fathers. This grooming activity allowed the fathers to feel refreshed and confident.
𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕 2: 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝑮𝒊𝒇𝒕𝒔
Part 2 of the event centered on the presentation of gifts to the Badjao community, symbolizing the institution’s commitment to sharing blessings:
Distribution of Hygiene Kits. Hygiene kits, containing essential items like soap, toothbrushes, and towels, were distributed to ensure the health and cleanliness of the community.
Distribution of Slippers. Every Badjao child and adult received a pair of slippers, providing comfort and protection for their feet.
Giving of Food Packs. Food packs, filled with nutritious essentials, were given to each family. These packs aimed to alleviate their immediate food security needs.
Eventually, the activity reached its closing program that was a joyful culmination of the day’s activities. In expression of their gratitude, the Badjao beneficiaries performed a lively and culturally rich sing and dance intermission number. The smiles and enthusiasm radiated the appreciation they felt.
Dr. Myra C. Catungal, Dean of the College of Teacher Education and the original proponent of the extension and research proposal about Badjaos, delivered the closing message. She emphasized the importance of such acts of kindness and urged everyone to continue supporting the Badjao community in their journey towards a better life.
The “Alay Biyaya para sa mga Badjao” was a profound experience that showcased the powrr of unity and compassion. It not only provided much-needed assistance but also created lasting memories of hope and love. The event served as a reminder that together, we can make a positive impact on the lives of those in need, and that gratitude should always be followed by action.
As we reflect on this memorable day, we are reminded that our institution’s commitment to serving the community extends beyond the classroom. We look forward to more opportunities to share blessings and make a difference in the lives of others!
#TeamAngat
#KayangKayaBastaSamaSama
#TatakPSUSanCarlos
