Written by Marcielle Marie B. Quimiguing, Vince Louanne R. Tabilon, James C. Austero
In partnership with SAP, UNICEF Philippines, Generation Unlimited, YOMA, and the SUGPAT Program of Ateneo de Zamboanga University’s Learning and Teaching Excellence Center, BUGSAY’s Let’s LEaP initiative is coined “MUSICART,” a one-day team-building volunteer activity promoting traditional Philippine music and art among underserved school-aged children of Barangay Guimputlan in Dapitan City. On Sunday, December 17, 2023, at the Barangay Guimputlan Covered Court, fifty children aged 5-13 and thirty youth volunteers aged 18-24 participated.
The event began with an interactive lecture on the Rights of a Child, followed by stationary activities led by youth volunteers. Children engaged in envisioning future aspirations, crafting Parols, creating tunes from recycled materials, celebrating rhythmic movements, and singing Filipino Children’s Songs. PasKAHON involved gift-giving, and spreading joy through recycled shoe boxes filled with art and music materials.
Supported by Learning to Earning Pathways,, the initiative integrated recycled materials into activities, showcasing a commitment to sustainability. It fostered unity, creativity, and cultural pride, leaving a lasting impact on participants and volunteers alike. Despite potential challenges, meticulous planning ensured a meaningful experience. BUGSAY’s Let’s LEaP “MUSICART” inspires positive change among Dapitan City’s youth, nurturing pride in heritage and empowerment for the future.
