Cagayan de Oro, Philippines - UPF-Mindanao supported the worldwide observance of the International Day of Families on May 15 by celebrating with a special family gathering at Barangay Nazareth Plaza, Cagayan de Oro City.
Among the guests were Father Jude Labado, parish priest of the Philippine Independent Church; Ms. Isabael M. Bagolor, Family Life Apostolate Lecturer; Ms. Elma M. Dalapag, President of the Northern Mindanao Tribal Cultural Foundation, Inc.; and some of the area’s local officials, including the city social workers and development officers.
Ms. Nida Paña, a city social worker, was the guest speaker; she shared her inspiration about UPF about being the only NGO that initiated a celebration this day in the city. She gave a message about the significance of a healthy family as a school of love in relation with this year’s theme, “Confronting Family Poverty and Social Exclusion.”
Ms. Grace P. Mayo, Executive Director of UPF-Mindanao, also gave a short message about the importance of the celebration and expressed gratitude for the support of the Nazareth Barangay Council in offering the plaza and gymnasium for the opening program and games. A representative of Hon. Jocelyn B. Rodriguez, Nazareth Barangay Captain, gave the welcome remarks saying that she was pleased that their place was chosen for the observance of the event.
After the short opening program there were family bonding activities of ball games and parlor games. Parents, children, and youth played and challenged each other happily. The activities aimed to raise awareness about the importance of good relationships among parents, children, siblings, and peers in social development and understanding each other’s cultural background.