--::: PALIHAN ACTIVITIES :::--
PALIHAN is an integrated program of St. Theresa's College that generally aims to mold the minds and hearts of every Theresian towards awareness and constant reaction to the things happening around her. It became an important activity for us because we gained so many values from it - simplicity, responsibility, helping, loving the poor and many more.
...It taught us to put words into action;
ideas into realization
and most of all, we simply learned how to serve...
we know in time, we'll miss everything from this activity. we'll look after wearing straight-cut pants, plain white t-shirts, the "one of a kind" stc rubbershoes and bringing along big pins & stapler with us! we'll miss the communities and the beautiful people who showed us the true meaning of service. the laughter, sweat and company of each other especially from our classmates and teachers. we know that nothing can ever replace those things. but then, through these experiences, we shall be enlightened to continue its mission. the Theresian light shall set forth and reign upon the cries of need..
FOUR4'S EXPERIENCES:
[ insights on our experiences during our fourth year PALIHAN sessions ]
FIRST DAY OF PALIHAN IV
During the first PALIHAN IV session, we had an orientation on what will this program cover for the entire year. It was held in the IMC. We were filled with much excitement they told us that we'll go out of STC for most of the times and interact with different sectors in order to distinguish the causes of poverty. Our facilitators explained to us what ADVOCACY means. We were enlightened on our views and objectives for PALIHAN IV. We truly enjoyed PALIHAN, not only because we had so much fun but also, in our hearts we felt that we helped our neighbors.
PREPARATION FOR THE COMMUNITY AND INSTITUTION VISIT
Before going to the communities and institutions, we had a PALIHAN session wherein we were prepared for the actual visit. They called it "The Skills Training". Some students were assigned to cook, make craftworks, and also, specific facilitators were assigned to each group. Each section were divided and tasked to go to specific ICM institution or community, namely:
1) Camarin
2)Commonwealth
3) Tahanang Walang Hagdan
4) Bahay Pangarap
5) Home of Joy
Our facilitators oriented us further on what we will see and expect unto that place. They also told us the possible things that we can do in order to help them in their everyday work. We planned some activities/presentations for our visit. Generally, our aim or main objective is Pakikipamuhay which means, being one with them. In addition, we had a film viewing, prayer service and synthesis which also focused on the Skills Training.
THE ACTUAL VISIT
It was a very nice experience to help the needy. Luckily, we were allowed to visit our communities and institutions thrice (September 09, October 03 and December 04).
On our first visit, we tried to cope with the environment and also, with the people. Some of our classmates told us that they were a bit shy from each other but then, as time elapsed, more and more they became open from one another. In the institutions such as in Bahay PAngarap, they made craftworks and helped them raise money. They also took care of the disabled and sick people. They saw the common problems that occur such as lack of medicine, facilities and focus of the government. In the community such us in Commonwealth, they helped the people in their everyday work. It was an unforgettable experience for IV-4 to do such unusual tasks just like selling fish in the market, watching over the sari-sari store, feeding the kids in the community, working in the soap factory and many more. Truly, we were tested and skilled by those activities. As we perform the tasks, we realized so many things. We felt the sweat and tears. We understood why those people often lose hope because life is so difficult.
The second visit was more challenging yet fun. Again, we applied Pakikipamuhay. We were also introduced to more people and got to know the community or institution better. We also discussed some common problems and suggested possible solutions for it. This time, we were more open from one another and so, we were able to express our feelings. We've created friendship and good company from one another. In our hearts, there's no gap between Theresians and the people in the community or institution. We are all equal and we respect one another. We again went home with smiles on our faces. We were filled with much learnings and insights.
For the last visit, it's Christmas time. We brought some gifts for them such as goods, clothes, toys for kids and other basic needs. We've prepared programs for entertainment. We had so much fun. For the last time, we were able to embody STC's vision-mission. We accomplish the objectives of PALIHAN which is to emboss our talents in a helpful and worthy way. Again, we had the "kumustahan" and heard some developments. It was a good feeling that little by little, poverty and sufferings are being resolved. Though we don't want to say goodbye as the day ended, we have to. We said to ourselves that this won't be the end of the grateful moment. The IV-4 students realized that there are still thousands of people who needed our help. Again, it's a big challenge for us.
PREPARATION FOR NAIC, CAVITE VISIT
When we heard that we're going on a grain field, we were filled with so much excitement. Once more, we'll experience a different activity which will give much realizations in us. But before going to Naic Cavite, we were first oriented. Our teachers invited a speaker who will discuss on farming. He was Ka Daning. Basically, he told us the situations of farmers nowadays and their common problems. We also had a film viewing that gave more awareness on the problems of farmers. During lunch break, we ate as a group and practiced to eat like farmers. We used banana leaves and used no spoon and forks. Nagkamay kami. We also brought simple foods such as fish, fruits and vegetables. It was good activity for us to feel and appreciate the grains that the farmers harvest. We also learned to share our food with our fellow classmates and be responsible people.
THE ACTUAL VISIT TO NAIC, CAVITE
We departed early from STC so that we will arrive on time to Naic, Cavite. And the moment we reached the place, we felt that we're already in a province -- cold breeze, green view and clean area. First, we gathered in a place and the head of the farmers gave an introduction on what will happen to us all throughout. We felt so excited when she said that we'll experience actual farming and harvesting. As we walked, we noticed how huge the place was. It was a calming place. We actually held the devices for harvesting which is called as karit and we realized that it's not that easy as everyone thought. It's true that "magtanim ay di biro, maghapong nakatayo" The farmers have no choice but to work all day in order to survive and raise their families. We also felt the heat of the sun and when you're in the mud for a long time, it felt very itchy. After the activity, we gathered once more to have a short presentation and discuss what we have learned. Some of our classmates were able to express their true feelings and insights about the farmers. Also, the farmers told us their current problems. The government had forgotten them. Some officials are being corrupt and so, the funds for the agrarian reform are not given to the farmers. They lacked modern devices that's why foreign rice are being patronized by investors and the people. We learned to appreciate the effort of these farmers. We've proven that it takes a long process in order to produce a single grain. We must empower the farmers because they're important people in the society. Literally, we will not have anything to eat without them. We must know how to respect their well-being and be proud of them. We must not waste food because one grain is equivalent to a sweat of a farmer.
*for more information about STC Palihan, visit the official website.