inFINity February 2024

inFINity

TVET Encounter Returns

by Mac Goli

Makati City, the Philippines, 12 February 2024--The �������� (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) ������������������ makes its official comeback after a five-year hiatus, bringing togetherstudentsfromFINTVETCenters. This year ' s theme is "The Dream that Makes You Dream," aiming to inspire and motivate students to pursue their passionsandaspirationswithteachings fromDonBosco.

The event was a success, featuring various activities that engaged the students and fostered a sense of teamwork and rapport between them andtheirteachers

On the first day of the TVET Encounter, Fr. Juvelan Samia, SDB, shared a talk to thestudentsaboutthetheme"TheDream thatMakesYouDream,"whichcaptivated

the hearts of the listeners as he shared how Don Bosco transformed the lives of his students from wolves to lambs. It was followedbyaCulturalDancePresentation and a goodnight talk by the Provincial SuperiorFr GerardoMartin,SDB

continuedfrompage1

TVET Encounter Returns

The second day commenced with various fun games and activities for the participants. The event was designed to demonstratetheskillsandtalentsofTVET students and trainers and foster camaraderie and networking among them. It was followed by the closing remarkfromtheExecutiveDirectorofDon Bosco-One TVET Philippines, Inc., Fr. Jose DindoVitug,SDB

The TVET Encounter was an excellent opportunity for the TVET community to learn from each other, enjoy themselves, and celebrate their achievements. The event was attended by more than 2,000 students in all FIN TVET Centers in the Philippines and was held at Don Bosco TechnicalInstitute–MakationFebruary9 and10,2024.

FINity

Editorial Team

inFINityisamonthlynewsletterproducedbytheCommissiononSocialCommunication oftheSalesiansofDonBoscoPhilippines NorthProvince(FIN) Itcomesouteverylastday ofthemonthasanhonortoSt JohnBosco,thetitularpatronoftheFINProvince Tocontribute,pleasesendusanemailviacscom@one-bosco.org.

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The Message of the Rector Major

Cardinal Angel Fernandez Artime, SDB CHEERFUL AND SERENE EVEN THOUGH LIVING IN A WHEELCHAIR

Encounters on Epiphany with amazing people who have good hearts and luminousfaith

Dear friends, readers of the Salesian Bulletin,

I greet you cordially and extend my best wishes to you in this new year, 2024, which we inaugurated just a short while ago With all my heart, I wish it would be a year filled with God’s presence and blessingsinourlives

You know I’m accustomed, whenever possible, to write this greeting to share something that I’ve experienced and that has impacted me for one reason or another

On the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord (January 6), I was in my hometown, Luanco-Asturias, feeling very connectedwithmyroots,withtheseaand nature that saw my birth and my growth, as well as with my countrymen. On that day, I went to celebrate Holy Mass. The pastor of my town kindly granted me this privilege while he went to another of the parishes entrusted to him In this way, we could celebrate this solemnity in more Christiancommunities.

WhatIwanttotellyouisthatitwasa morning in which the Lord had prepared someunexpectedencountersforme.AsI learned about the situation of some people, the certainty of how the Lord consoles and comforts us even when pain, sickness, or limitation have settled into some lives was made more real for me.

Before going to celebrate Mass, I began my journey that morning by visitinganelderlypersonwhohadbeena doctor in my village for many years – a great family doctor, a believer – and, by the way, a Salesian past pupil from Salamanca. For years and years he was oneofthefiguresIheardmyparentstalk about when they would sometimes go to thedoctor.

I made this family visit to him in response to his daughter’s invitation and metthismanoffaithwhotoldmethat,as a doctor, he could give only a little of the great amount he had received from God. Now, with a grave illness, he only asked the Good Lord to prepare him for the EncounterwithHim

So great was his conviction and his peace that I went to celebrate Mass having already received my dose of “la parolina all’orecchio” (a “brief word whispered in the ear” – a phrase Don Bosco used to describe one means of exercising the Preventive System in relationships).

At Mass, I met, as on other occasions, a young man no more than 32 years old who, because of an accident, has been living in a wheelchair for years Even being in a wheelchair, he has gone with his mother to India to make contact with the poorest. My young friend impressed me withhisserenity,hissmile,andthejoythat livesinhisheart.

It is with this same serenity, smile, and joy that he participates in daily Mass and receives the Lord Certainly, this young friend of mine could have reason to decry his “bad luck.” But, even worse, he could blame God for it because people often do that when something is beyond them. But no, he simply lives without feeling sorry for himself and being thankful for the gift of life,eveninawheelchair.

When I’d see him at the end of each Mass, we’d always greet each other. His wordswerealwaysonesofgratitude;yetit isratherIwhoshouldthankhimforbeinga greatlivingwitnessoffaith intheLordofLife,whichheshowstousall.

That’s how beautiful and impressive my Epiphany day had been up until the moment when, at the exit of the church, a middle-agedcouplegreetedmeandgave metheirwishesforthenewyear.Theyalso had joyful faces – the husband with more joy and serenity (who was suffering from cancer) than his beloved wife (who suffered for him). Still, both spoke to me of their certainty that they must live this moment and this illness in trust and abandonmenttoGod

Finally,amongallthesegreetings,there was still one lacking – that of an elderly motherwhorecalledtomethatayearago she lost one of her sons. He’d been ill and died, and now she’s suffering from cancer. She asked me only to keep her before the Lord. I asked her how she felt, and she told me that she’s in pain, but very comforted by our Faith. I can assure you that I was speechless owing to the intense emotions that had come and overwhelmed me throughout that morning due to these livingwitnesses.

I could not but promise my prayers to each one, and I’ve kept that promise while becoming aware, yet again and more strongly, of how the Lord continues to do great things in the humble, in those most affected by life’s situations, and in those who feel that He alone is truly their consolationandhelp.

I find all this so important that I can’t keep it to myself. Sometimes it seems that we can’t write about these things nowadaysbecause“it’snotfashionable,”or because we talk about other things. But I rebel against everything that prevents me from sharing and witnessing to what is important, profound, and hopeful in our lives

I don’t know why, but I have the sense that many readers feel in tune with what I’m sharing and that I myself have experienced because what’s being narrated here, what happened on an Epiphany morning in a small village near thesea,doesn’thappenonlythere.No,this is all a part of our human condition, and theLordisalwaysatoursidethroughallof it,ifweallowHimtobe.

Iwishyouallthebest,dearfriends.Letus continue to believe that, at all times, even in the most difficult moments, we have reasonforhope.

Photos by John Villafania

first person

“Hard, happy, and holy.” Indeed, these words are what we experienced during our stay at Don Bosco Aspirantate FormationHouseinCanlubang,Laguna.

Br Roj Mallari, brother assistant of the aspirants, tackled these words by saying that inside the seminary, the young men receive human, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoralformations.Somemaythinkthat allseminariansdoispray Still,duringour stay in the seminary, we had ample time to study and learn with the seminarians, playfootballandbasketballwiththemas it was a part of their regular schedule, andtimefordoingchoresandworkinside the seminary and at the shrine, a time to learn an instrument, and of course, pray Unlike other seminaries, the Don Bosco Aspirantate Formation House does not havesiestasorresttimes.

By Charo Mae Lampad

As St. John Bosco said, “Idleness is the workshop of the devil” My experience inside the seminary allowed me to appreciate work, chores, and the structured schedule because I have avoidedthetemptationtosin.

One thing that I will always remember during my stay there is the community life. In many activities of the seminarians' schedule, there were many times that we stayed together. The seminarians did it together, from Lauds and Vespers to eating in the refectory, washing dishes, playing football and basketball, and singing as a choir. Of course, as men are formed to become instruments of the Lord,theprayerlifeisalwayspresent.

Fromwakingupinthemorninguntilwe rest at night, God is always present in everythingwedo

For me, it became essential to allow God to accompany me in everything I do because I feel fulfilled every time I accomplish an activity. During our threeday stay inside the seminary, it became more apparent that it was still a part of the discernment process Though they are still discerning, they already see they are for a consecrated life. For me, it was not those three days that would determine whether someone would already enter the seminary, but rather a peek into the life inside and seeing if it fit them.

Attheendoftheday,itwasthe“yes”to God’s call to try the life inside the seminary As the Salesians said, we are already taking our discernment process seriously when we say yes to opportunitiesgiventous.

Itwastrulyhardbecauselivingsucha structuredlifewasnewforme.Iwastruly happybecauseIwasinthepresenceofa happy and fulfilled community It was truly holy because God was present in every activity we did inside the seminary. The seminary forms these young men to livefortheyouth.

Truly,DonBosco’sdreamlivesonthrough theseyoungmenformedinsidetheseminary tobecomemenwhowillsavesouls.

By Corazon M. Delfin

Don Bosco Technical College joined the festivities honoring Mandaluyong's 79th Liberation Day and 30th Cityhood AnniversaryonFebruary9,2024.

By Charo Mae Lampad

The parade of floats heightened the jubilant ambiance of the celebration, featuring over 50 vibrant participants. Each float showcased the ingenuity and vitality of Mandaleños following the theme: “Kalinga sa Kapaligiran: Ang PagmamahalsaKatangi-tangingYaman ng Bayan ay Tunay na Pundasyon ng MaasyosnaKaunlaran”.

DBTC's entry secured 6th place in the prestigious Best Parade Floats 2024 competition.

DBTC extends heartfelt appreciation for thechancetopartakeandenhanceunity within the community through its involvementinthecelebrations

By Charo Mae Lampad

DONBOSCOTARLAC-Fromawiderange of science and technology, the Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly-Operated Kiosks (STARBOOKS) were finally installed in Don Bosco Tarlac, initiated byDonBoscoTarlac’sresearchoffice,in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology Tarlac, last January30,2024,atFr.WilliamBalocco Gymnasium.

The launching of STARBOOKS was graced by the Tarlac Provincial Director, KarenY.Dañez,togetherwithDonBosco’s Rector and Principal, Fr Edwin L Ulanday, SDB,andtheInstitution’sResearchOfficer, Mr. Karl Josh M. Guillermo by signing the memorandum of agreement where all Bosconians and Lay Mission Partners witnessedtheceremonialevent.

The STARBOOKS is a digital library systeminitiatedbytheDOSTthataimsto provide a wide resource for science and technology and contribute to promoting S&T education in the institution's educationalsystem.

Being a technical school, Don Bosco Tarlac commits also to promoting research culture in the institution by conducting various research-related activities, and installing STARBOOKS is partofit.

According to Monique Escalona of Grade 12 – Sacchi, since the STARBOOKS had been installed at Don Bosco Tarlac, shesaid“I feel very glad and proud since this is a very good opportunity for us, Bosconians. STARBOOKS can benefit us especially kapag kailangan namin ng resources regarding our research. Further, STARBOOKS can also greatly help us, especially in subjects related to scienceandtechnology.

Itisveryuser-friendlykayanamanitcan provide access and assist us, students, in acquiring all the reliable information that weneedatschool.”

This partnership and collaboration between Don Bosco Tarlac and DOST Tarlac are truly relevant to the school’s educational system. Whereas, Don Bosco Tarlac will provide a holistic co-curricular program that entails the quality of teaching, methods, and strategies for their students, using valuable resources suchasSTARBOOKS.

Thus, considering various mandates and issuance under this partnership, Don Bosco and DOST Tarlac will cooperate to define areas where impact-producing projectsaretobeestablished

K'Long, Vietnam – February 2024 – The Team Visit to the East Asia-Oceania Region took place in Vietnam from Wednesday 14 to Saturday 17 February 2024, an event attended by about 100 Salesians, including Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major of the Salesians, with the members of his GeneralCouncilandtheProvincialsand ProvincialCouncilsoftheProvincesand Vice-Provinces from the Region. These were days of intense presentations, discussions and sharing. At the end of the Team Visit, Don Bosco's Tenth Successor then delivered his closing speech, expressing gratitude and outlining a compelling roadmap for the future.

By Charo Mae Lampad

In a heartfelt homily, Cardinal Fernández Artime testified to the vitality and dynamism of the Salesian Congregation ofDonBosco,thathehadseeninhisvisits to the provinces. He acknowledged the miracles that continue to shape the lives of young people through the Salesian mission,expressinghisbeliefthataslong as Salesians remain faithful to their identity and mission, they will receive God's blessings and always have young peoplebytheirside.

TheEAOteamvisittoK'Longcametoa close on February 17, 2024, leaving its participants with a sense of contentment andrenewedenthusiasmfortheSalesian mission. The last day of the visit was marked by a thanksgiving Holy Eucharist, in the morning celebrated by Rector Major Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, who shared his profound experiences visitingSalesianprovincesworldwide.

He stated, "When we open our hearts and love to serve the mission, we will always have young people with us because there are young people in every era. " With this conviction, the Salesian Congregation looks ahead to embracing new challenges and continuing to transform the lives of young people aroundtheworld.

Themorningsessioncommencedwith a thought-provoking presentation by Fr. AlfredMaravilla,theGeneralCouncillorfor the Missions Fr Maravilla addressed the topic of "Consolidating the Missionary SpiritoftheEAORegion."

He emphasized that the missionary spirit is a calling for all Salesians and requires prayer, discernment, and companionship. With concern for those facing a crisis in their missionary vocation, he highlighted the importance of deep prayer and authentic support fromProvincialsandCouncilors.Heurged provinces to develop specific plans for evangelization, emphasizing the need to prepare young missionaries with language and cultural knowledge of the countriestheywillserve.

By Charo Mae Lampad

The afternoon session focused on Social Communications, with Fr. Gildasio Mendes, the General Councillor for Social Communication, sharing his insights. Fr. Mendes reminded all Salesians that they are communicators, responsible for conveying the Gospel and Salesian charism. He provided updates on the implementationofproposedprojectsand the Priorities of the Rector Major over the six years Addressing the challenges posedbyachangingworld,heposedthe crucialquestionofhowtoremainfaithful communicatorsinthedigitalage.

Fr Mendes also highlighted the establishment of a Salesian Communications Network, aimed at fostering communication across cultural diversities and engaging all human realitiesindifferentcountries

Hepresentedreportsonthe"Schoolof Communication" conducted in the EAO region, sharing specific statistics and outliningtheSocialCommunicationplans fortheregionandeachprovince

In the final session, the Rector Major andhisGeneralCounciloffereddirections for the entire EAO Region, presenting ten points for reflection and consideration overthenextsixyears Fr GregBicomong, PNG Provincial Superior, speaking on behalf of all the Provinces, expressed gratitude to the Rector Major and the General Council for their presence and guidance.

He also extended warm appreciation to the Vietnam Province for their exceptional planning and hospitality. The ProvincialofVietnam,alongwiththeEAO Regional Councilor, expressed their heartfeltthankstoallparticipants.

Thefour-dayEAOteamvisitconcluded with a renewed sense of purpose and fraternity The presence and interaction with the Rector Major and the General Council left the attendees inspired and energizedforthefuture.

As the participants departed, they carried with them a shared commitment to live out the Salesian mission faithfully and to nurture the vibrant spirit of Don Bosco'scharism.

As we embark on the solemn season of Lent, Don Bosco School of Theology is delighted to announce an enriching online Lenten recollection series titled “LENTEN rECO.” This unique program, rooted in the spirit of reflection and renewal, intertwines the sacred observance of Lent with the urgent call forecologicalstewardshipencapsulated inthesevenLaudatoSigoals.

By Charo Mae Lampad

Led by the esteemed facilitator, Fr. Francis Gustilo, SDB, LENTEN rECO will featurealineupofdistinguishedspeakers who will delve into various aspects of environmental sustainability and spiritual growth.

Each session promises profound insights and practical guidance, aiming toinspireparticipantstoembraceamore mindfulandeco-consciouslifestyle.

The sessions will be held online, providing accessibility to participants fromvariouslocations

The registration fee is 1,000 PHP per session or 3,000 PHP for access to all sessions, offering a comprehensive journey through Lenten reflection and ecologicalawareness.

For further inquiries or assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact DBST CUSTOMER SERVICE at +632 88246787 or +6329617184827.

Join us in this transformative Lenten experience as we unite in prayer, contemplation, and action for the flourishing of our planet and the enrichment of our souls. Together, let us heed the call to care for our common home and journey towards a more sustainableandspirituallyfulfillingfuture.

In the spirit of Lenten reflection and commitment to environmental stewardship, the Don Bosco School of Theology (DBST) is proud to unveil its latestinitiative:the“LENTENECOFAST”

Spearheadedbythededicatedeffortsof the ITF Student Council and supported by the Vice- Dean for Student Affairs, this project aims to engage the entire DBSTcommunityinacollectiveeffortto protectourplanet.

By Charo Mae Lampad

The “LENTEN ECOFAST” initiative is a holistic approach to fasting, focusing on four essential elements: fire, air, water, and earth. Each element represents a critical aspect of our environment, and through mindful actions, we seek to reduce our ecological footprint and promotesustainability.

Forfire(energyconservation),theDBST community has committed to a simple yet impactful change: refraining from using air conditioning in classrooms during the last hour of classes. By minimizing energy consumption, we are taking a proactive step towards reducing ourrelianceonnon-renewableresources.

Inaddressingairquality,DBSTproudly announces itself as a “no-idling of vehicles zone.” This means that vehicles on campus will refrain from unnecessary idling, thereby reducing emissions and improving air quality for all members of ourcommunity.

Water conservation is another crucial focus of the “LENTEN ECOFAST” To minimize water waste, we have implemented a new approach to dishwashing, utilizing bins instead of faucets This simple switch not only conserves water but also encourages mindfulnessinourdailyactivities.

Finally,inourcommitmenttonurturing the earth, DBST is organizing a tree planting activity that will mark the culmination of the Lenten season By actively participating in this hands-on initiative, we demonstrate our dedication to environmental preservation and sustainablelandmanagement.

The “LENTEN ECOFAST” initiative commenced on February 14, 2024, and will be sustained throughout the Lenten season Beyond just a temporary endeavor, our goal is to cultivate a new lifestyle rooted in conservation principles, thereby making a lasting contribution to thewell-beingofourplanet.

Through the collective efforts of the DBST community, we aspire to foster a deeper sense of connection with nature and a heightened awareness of our responsibility to care for our common home. As we embark on this journey of eco-consciousness, let us embrace the spirit of Lent as an opportunity for personal reflection, growth, and positive change.

By Charo Mae Lampad

Together, we can make a difference. Letusjoinhandsinsolidarityasstewards of the Earth, working towards a sustainable future for generations to come

By Corazon Magnaye-Delfin

On January 31, 2024, the Educative PastoralCommunity(EPC)ofDonBosco Technical College (DBTC) celebrated its 71st anniversary with a series of momentous events. The day of “Hiraya Manawari” highlighted the first milestonemarkingtheinauguralstepin the institution's Road Map to its 75th anniversary.

By Charo Mae Lampad

The three significant Pastoral Milestones define DBTC’s spiritual journey, each contributing to the enrichment of its evangelization with emphasis on the centrality of Pastoral Ministry in its mission.

Among the first milestones was the groundbreaking of the St. John Bosco Chapel facade which symbolizes DBTC’s commitment to keeping a sacred space that reflects reverence and devotion The ceremonywasnotmerelyaboutphysical construction but about laying the foundation for spiritual growth and communityengagement.

RepresentativesfromDBTC’spartners and members of the community participatedintheceremonialburyingof atimecapsulecontainingthedreamsof the EPC written on pieces of paper, a statuette of Mary Help of Christians, a rosary, and a copy of the day’s newspaper. It was an awe-inspiring displayofsynodalityinaction.

Following the groundbreaking ceremonywasthesolemnblessingofthe PastoralCenter.Thiscenter,envisionedas ahubofspiritualgrowthandcommunity outreach, now stands as a testament to the institution’s dedication to serving others and fostering a culture of compassion and inclusivity. With blessings bestowed, DBTC ushered in a new phase of pastoral care and support forallwhoseeksolacewithinitswalls. The celebration continued to the launching of the Pastoral Program, designed to nurture the spiritual growth and development of the DBTC community.

The program seeks to empower the members of the EPC to deepen their relationship with their faith and each other, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.

Ateveryeventofthisday,thepresence ofHisExcellencyMostRev.LeoDrona,SDB, DD., Bishop Emeritus of San Pablo was mostsignificant.HepresidedovertheEPC Mass and led the groundbreaking of the futurefaçade,theblessingofthePastoral Center, and the inauguration of the revitalized Pastoral Program. As an alumnus who walked the halls and grounds of DBTC seventy years ago, Bishop Drona embodies the Salesian education, formation, and values that form the solid foundation of DBTC as a community.

Hisunwaveringcommitmenttoservice and his deep-rooted connection to his almamatermakehimtheperfectchoice to lead on this momentous occasion. Bishop Drona's presence not only serves as a reminder of DBTC’s rich history but alsoasabeaconofhopeforthefuture In his homily, Bishop Drona recalled the formation he received from the Salesians when he was a young student which had averysignificantimpactonhislife.

By Charo Mae Lampad

His words of wisdom and guidance resonated deeply, inspiring each one to continue striving for excellence and servingotherswithhumilityandgrace.

Reflecting on these pastoral milestones, the community is filled with gratitude for thejourneyitreachedandexcitementfor thepaththatliesahead.

With faith and confidence, it is ready to reach new heights and touch the lives of all who walk through its doors. These culminating activities encapsulated a celebration of the past and a bold declarationoffaithandprogress.

As DBTC commemorates the bicentenaryofthedreamofDonBosco,it looks ahead to its 75th anniversary in 2028 with renewed vigor and enthusiasm to realize Don Bosco’s dream for the youth of today and the coming generations

In the heart of St. John Bosco Parish in Tondo, a cinematic masterpiece is unfolding—the Senakulo 2024 movie, titled "Traslacion." This production, deeply inspired by the ongoing synodal journeyoftheCatholicChurch,bringsto lifethedramaticpresentationofourLord Jesus, the God who walks along with us individually and as a community of believers.

At the core of "Traslacion" is the parallel storytelling of Jesus' life, passion, death,andresurrectionwiththenarrative of Issa, a devout follower of Jesus, the Black Nazarene. The film intricately weaves together these two stories, illustrating the profound connection betweenthelifeofChristandthedevoted journeyofIssa.

The movie draws its inspiration from the annual Traslacion, a significant event commemoratingthetransferoftheBlack NazareneimagefromRecollectChurchin IntramurostoitspresentshrineatQuiapo Church. With over 400 years of history, this feast, observed every 9th of January, holds immense cultural and religious significance.

As the audience is immersed in the portrayal of Jesus' life, Issa's own narrative unfolds, showcasing the impact of her deep devotion to the Black Nazareneonherpersonaljourneyoffaith.

This intertwining of narratives not only pays homage to the age-old tradition of Senakulo but also adds a unique layer of personaldevotion,makingthestorytelling evenmorepoignant.

Senakulo, deeply rooted in Philippine Catholic traditions, serves as a powerful means of evangelization. St. John Bosco Parish in Tondo continues this tradition with the aim of enlightening the Catholic faithfulonthelifeandteachingsofJesus, particularly during the Lenten Season. Through "Traslacion," the parish hopes to inspire viewers to strengthen their communion with Jesus, recognizing Him asaconstantpresenceintheirlives

Beyond its artistic and narrative brilliance, "Traslacion" carries a profound message—leading its viewers to deepen theirfaith,hopeandloveinourLordJesus Christ, who overcame death and rose to lifeforthesalvationofhumankind.

Thefilmbecomesavesselforspiritual reflection, urging the audience to place their trust in a God who is always with them, sharing in their personal stories of joy, courage and strength in the face of life’svicissitudes.

As the screens come to life with the vivid retelling of these stories, St. John Bosco Parish-Tondo continues its commitment to spreading the Gospel of our redemption in Christ through the timelesstraditionofSenakulo.

Zepherin Vocation Camp Begins

By Celine Acosta

The Zepherin Camp commenced last February 28, 2024. With 42 campers, courageously seeking out God's will for them, the participants were exposed to the different apostolates of the Salesians.

By Charo Mae Lampad

Firstly,theyvisitedDonBoscoTondofor the Parish Ministry exposure, the Printing Press, the TVET and Migrants Center in Makati, and the Street Children Center in Don Bosco Tuloy, Alabang. They also celebrated mass at the Chapel of the Relic, where they were able to encounter DonBosco.

They proceeded to Don Bosco Aspirantate Formation House to see life inside the seminary. These took place duringthefirstdayofthecamp.

The camp aims to present Don Bosco and the Salesian Life and Mission to the participants, inspire the Seekers to become Salesians of Don Bosco; and guidethemonajourneyofdiscernment.

By Mr Angelo Itable (Agri-B

By C

From January 29th to 31 Bosco Legazpi Team, hea theAgri-Businesstrainer Agri-Business trainees, M and Ms. Shane Mario pa much-anticipated "20 Agriculture Learning conducted by Jollibee G heldatOrtigas,JollibeeC

This event, aimed at culti and empowering futu agriculture, brought toget industry experts, an passionate about shapin agriculture in the Philipp Group Foundation was industry partners of D MechanicalTechnologyCe

The three-day journe blend of interactive wor panel discussions, handsengaging field trips, prov withacomprehensiveund challenges and oppor agriculturalsector.

Day one commenced with inspiring activities, one of those was getting to know each other using adjectives to describe one self. The other activity includes writing about expectations, the view about driving innovation, and sustainability in agriculture. Participants delvedintoaseriesofworkshopsfocused on agripreneurship, sustainable farming practices, and leveraging technology for agriculturaldevelopment.

Day two saw participants immersing themselvesintheheartofagriculturewith field trips to local farms and agricultural cooperatives (BGC farm community). These hands-on experiences allowed participantstogainfirsthandinsightsinto therealitiesoffarming,interactwithlocal farmers, and witness innovative agriculturalpracticesinaction.

The final day of the learning journey culminated in a series of discussions featuring topics ranged from food securityandclimateresiliencetoyouth

engagement and empowerment in agriculture Participantsactivelyengaged inthought-provokingdiscussions,sharing ideas, experiences, and innovative solutions to address the pressing challengesfacingtheagriculturalsector Throughout the event, networking sessions provided participants with valuable opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, mentors, and potential collaborators, fostering a sense of community and collaboration among youthpassionateaboutagriculture

The"2024YouthinAgricultureLearning Journey" concluded on a high note, with participantsleavinginspired,empowered, and equipped with the knowledge, skills, and networks to drive positive change in theagriculturalsector.Astheyreturnedto theircommunities,theycarriedwiththem a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to building a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive future forPhilippineagriculture.

On-the-Job Training Program of the Veritas College of Irosin in partnership with Don Bosco Agro-Mechanical TechnologyCenter.

The students of the Veritas College of IrosinlocatedatBarangaySanJulian,Irosin, Sorsogon are having their On-the-Job Training at Don Bosco Agro-Mechanical TechnologyCenterinBanquerohan,Legazpi Cityfor640hours.

A fruit of a partnership that started in 2016 and is continued every year. The partnership started with the idea of Don Bosco-Legazpi to share the agricultural technologies and practices to its fellow agricultural schools and colleges in the Bicolregion.

Being one the leading TVET institutions of Don Bosco in the province of Albay, Don Bosco-Legazpi has been know to produce trained farm technicians in the fields of agriculturalcrops,livestockandpoultry

AproofthatattractedtheVeritasCollegeof Irosintopartnerwiththecentertoexposeits studentstothecenter’sfieldswherepractical andtechnicallearningsarenourished

ThetrainingexperiencesoftheVeritas studentsareverydiversefromproductionsof cereals(corn),vegetablecrops,high-valued crops,rootcrops,fruittrees,woodtrees,freerangechickens,broilers,layerchickens,swine andthesmallandlargeruminants

Thestudentswillalsolearnhowtomake FermentedFruitJuices(FFJ),FermentedPlant Juices(FPJ),andOrganicPesticides.

Thestudentsarelearningthejobathand andexploringmoreoftheagricultural practicesDonBosco-Legazpihasbeendoing overtheyears Thisexperienceledevery batchofstudentsfromtheVeritasCollegeof Irosintorecommendthecenterasoneofthe bestpartnerorganizationsforOn-the-Job Training.

Together with the Veritas College of Irosin, the students have chosen Don Bosco-Legazpiastheirtraininggroundfor OJT primarily for its broad operations in agriculture and animal husbandry. In its very objective, the on-the-job training of the students have become a commitmentofDonBosco-Legazpitothe Veritas College of Irosin. And together, both are creating impact through endeavoring into agriculture as a form of

Over 350 participants comprising campus paper advisers, school delegates, and students from the National Capital Region and Don Bosco community thronged the Joy Center of DBTIMakationFebruary16and23forthe highly anticipated “The Bosconian Quill 2024: DBEC’s 1st NCR-Wide Journalism PressConference.”

DBTI Makati JHS Band warmly welcomed the school delegations at the campusmainlobby,whichignitedfurther their excitement Fr Jerry Santos, SDB, the DBTI Makati Rector, officially welcomed them with his inspiring opening remarks

To set the tone, yours truly, Dr. Amiel Yacon presented the goals and objectives of the event. The participants’ enthusiasm was ignited as the Keynote Speaker, Mr. Glenn Ace P. Parungao, the SeniorNewsAnchorof1051BrigadaNews

FM Manila, Brigada Mass Media Corporation, delivered his speech and inspiringstories.

Shortly, Ms Joyce Babe Pañares, the Managing Editor of Manila Standard shared her knowledge on journalism through her lecture on Campus Newsrooms 20: Design, Fact-Checking, and the Rise of Artificial Intelligence. The participants were all ears to their talks and presentations and actively shared theirideasduringtheforum

After the morning lectures, seven practitioners and educators from various institutions and news publications conductedlecturesandworkshops.

Mr.HaroldKabibTaguba-NewsWriting orPagsulatngBalita

Mr.MichaelRobertR.Alviar-Feature WritingorPagsulatngLathalain

Ms.MarieAntonetteD.PamaranEditorialWritingorPagsulatngEditoryal

Mr.AldrinJovenPimentelPhotojournalismorPagkuhangLarawang Pampahayagan

Mr.RamilD.Cruz-SportsWritingor PagsulatngIsports

Mr.RomeoBuen-EditorialCartooning orPaglalarawangTudling

Mr.MelvinDinerosSarangayCopyreadingandHeadlineWritingor PagwawastoatPag-uulo

Afterlisteningtothecategory lecturers,theyoungjournalistsfrom theirrespectiveschoolswrotetheir heartsoutontheconference’stheme:

“Revolutionizing Journalism through Artificial Intelligence in the PostPandemic Era”

Day1drewtoaclosewithasense ofhopeandeageranticipation bubblingupfortheupcomingDay2of theevent.

Thesecondandfinaldayofthe eventgarneredevengreater excitementfromtheaspiring journalistsandtheircampuspaper advisers.

Fr.JoseDindoS.Vitug,SDB, ChancellorofDBEC,sharedaspecial messageaddressedtothe participatingschools.Heemphasized theadvantagesofAIandtherolesit playsnotonlyinjournalismand educationbutalsoinmodernsociety ingeneral Themessagewasfollowed bythereadingofanotherspecial messagefromHon.VicePresidentand DepEdSecretary Ms.SaraDuterte, throughwhichsheacknowledgedthe effortoftheDBECtosupportthe missionoftheeducationministry.

Thecravingforknowledgeof aspiringjournalistswasquenched throughthelecturesconductedby Mr.IanNicholasCigaral,ajournalist fromthePhilippineDailyInquirerand Mr.MichaelJoeT.Delizo,aMultiPlatformJournalistinABS-CBNNews.

Mr.Cigaralsharedhisexpertisein facilitatingCollaborative Journalism whileMr.Delizodiscussedthetopicof Broadcast Journalism.

Theparticipants,especiallythestudents joinedtheinteractivelectureand activities.

Shortlyafterthelectures,themost anticipatedsegmentarrived—the awarding.Theawardingwasdividedinto twodivisions,NCRandDonBoscoschools Winnersfromthesevencategories (FilipinoandEnglish)receivedcertificates andmedals,includingacashprizeforthe champion.Theawardingceremonywas engulfedwithjoyandcheersastheir nameswerecalled.Intheend,SanBeda CollegeAlabang,aschoolfrom MuntinlupaCitybaggedtheSan GiovanniMelchiorBoscoBest PublicationAward

Atlast,theschooldelegations,withor withoutanaward,tookthewayhome withthebestreward theirexperience.

Day2concludedwithaclosingremark byFr.DonnieDuchinE.Duya,SDB,the Editor-in-Chief-DBPress,Inc.Allthe schooldelegationswereinvitedto participateinthefuturejointeventsof DBECandDBPress.

MatthewS.Rojales,EIC,TheBosconian JournalofDBTI-Makati,Ms.MylesElainne Rivera,DB1TVETStaff,andPatriciaVillena, aparticipantfromSouthMansfield Collegetookspecialrolesintheevent.

CSCom Rolls Out 2nd Soul Pixels Webinar

24February,viaGoogleMeet--To understandtheuseandimpactofshortformcontent(TikTok,Reels,Shorts)vs traditionalsocialmedia(YouTube, Twitter),theCommissiononSocial Communication(CSCom)oftheFIN Provincehostedawebinaronthis relevanttopic.

Mr.KirbyLlaban,anauthor,motivational speaker,trainer,andsongwriter,servedas theresourceperson.Llaban,aDoctoratein TheologycandidateattheLoyolaSchoolof Theology,ispartofCouplesforChrist (CFC).InthisCatholicfamilyrenewal ministry,heservesontheCouplesfor ChristInstitute(CFCI)board.

LlabanpointedoutthatTikTokisunique becauseitattemptstobethebestinits field.It’smainlydedicatedtoshort-form videocontent Inthisregard,it’salso revolutionary.

Theinteractivewebinarlastedforan hourandahalf,whichgatheredSalesians ofDonBosco,membersoftheSalesian Family,andyoungpeopleinattendance

Earlythismonth,theTechnicalEducationand SkillsDevelopmentAuthority(TESDA)announced thatitcreatedacontentcreationcourseandwill includeitinitsvocationalcourses,taking advantageofthegrowingonlineincome opportunities

Thisonlineconferenceisthesecond installmentofSoulPixels,aseriesofwebinarson socialcommunication,whichhasbeen conceptualizedtoensureasolidpastoral presenceonsocialmediaandeffectivelyspread theGospel’sjoyintheyoung’slanguage,whichis oneofthelinesofactioninthePastoralProgram oftheFINProvince.

ThethirdandlastinstallmentofSoulPixelswill takeplaceinJune29,2024.

By Josh Angelo B. Manarang

Last Saturday, February 17, 2024, the Archdiocese of San Fernando, Pampanga, conducted its yearly Vocation Jamboree –Vocare with the theme; ÁBÉ: Kayantábe Tátangú king Métung a Súyû (Responding togethertoaCall).

The event took place at the Mother of Good Counsel Seminary, the central seminary of the Archdiocese of San Fernando.

The annual event was attended by 1,707 different young people from the Archdiocese’s vicariates, catholic schools, and others who continue to discern their vocation towards the religious life A few delegates from Don Bosco Academy Pampanga(Mabalacat&Bacolor)werealso presentatthesaidevent.

Differentcongregationswereinvitedto guideandleadtheyoungdelegatestowards their discernment through simple booths of the “gallery walk” session of the event. The SalesiansofDonBosco(SDB)wasoneofthe invited congregations to promote the SalesianVocation.

The Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB) boothwasfilledwithtarpaulinscontaining the Salesian formation application process, information regarding the Salesian life, the mission of Saint John Bosco,etc.

Stampitas and infographics were also given to each delegate who visited the booth. Salesians, LaMPs, and some BosconiansfromtheschoolsettingofDon Bosco Academy Pampanga were one in facilitating and promoting the Salesian Vocation to the delegates, which made this year’s Salesian booth more unique andfruitful Ahandfulofdelegatesthenvisitedthe Salesianbooth,beingonewiththemission ofDonBosco.

The details were quickly given to them through a registration form addressed to the Salesian Vocation Director of the FIN–Province,Fr.JayDavid,SDB.

TheSalesiansofDonBosco(SDB) boothwasspearheadedbyCl.Paolo Romero,SDB,whereinheintroducedthe Salesiancongregation,alongsideabrief summaryoftheLifeofDonBosco,tothe delegates

Indeed,theVocare2024enlightened itsdelegatestowardsthereligiouslife togetherwiththecongregationsinvited. TheSalesiansofDonBosco(SDB)being oneofthem,istrulygratefulforthegiftof discernmentgiventothem Maymoreyoungpeoplecontinueto persevere,promote,anddiscerntowards theSalesianlife.

Communityreflections andcontributions ontheGC29 ReflectionQuestions

Feb Mar 31

Electionof PC2024 Province Delegates

Deadlineofsubmission onMarch31,2024

Jun 16-22

PC2024Assembly andCelebration

Deadlineof submissionof PC2024documents toGC29Moderator

Jan 31

Deadlineof submissionofPC2024

LocalDelegatestothe Moderator

Creation ofthePC2024Working Paperbythe Preparatory Commission

Jun 23-29

Finalizationbythe PC2024Secretariatof thePC2024documents forsubmissiontoGC29 Moderator

PC 2022 CSCom

M e t h o d o l o g y o f C o m m u n i t y D i s c e r n m e n t

I d e n t i f y n e w w a y s o f l i v i n g t h e S a l e s i a n c o n s e c r a t e d i d e n t i t y I d e n t i f y c a u s e s o f w e l l n e s s & d i s c o m f o r t

A n E Y E o n t h e l i v e s o f c o n f r e r e s , c o m m u n i t i e s , E P C , y o u n g

C O R E A R E A 1 & 2 : C o m m u n i t i e s m a y s t a r t t h e r e f l e c t i o n s o n t h e p r o p o s e d R e f l e c t i o n Q u e s t i o n G u i d e a l r e a d y p r o v i d e d .

C H O I C E S

I N T E R P R E T A T I O N L I S T E N I N G

C O R E A R E A 3 & J U R I D I C A L Q U E S T I O N S : W e w i l l w a i t f o r t h e r e f l e c t i o n s o f t h e G e n e r a l C o u n c i l b e f o r e w e c a n s t a r t o u r c o m m u n i t y d e l i b e r a t i o n s o n t h e s e .

C O N V E R S A T I O N I N T H E S P I R I T : W e s h a l l a t t e m p t t o u s e t h i s S y n o d a l p r o c e s s i n o u r c o m m u n i t y r e f l e c t i o n s .