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Harmony in Scouting: A Professional Recap of the Joint BSP and GSP Camporal 2023
The collaborative endeavor of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) and the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) Camporal, held on November 17-18, 2023, at the RN Covered Court – Liceo de Cagayan University, stands as a noteworthy event that united Grade 5 and Grade 6 students, encompassing both genders within the Grade School Department. Themed "Sustaining Growth and a Sustainable World for All," the camp was meticulously designed to impart to the young scouts the significance of sustainable development and their pivotal role in shaping a more promising future.
A pivotal moment during the event was the investiture ceremony, a focal point skillfully orchestrated by Ms. Melody R. Dano, the Principal and Camp Chief. Her warm welcome address set the tone for the proceedings. Ms. Ardine P. Ballenas, the GSP Coordinator, took pride in presenting 44 girls who eagerly expressed their commitment to join the Girl Scouts of the Philippines. Simultaneously, Mr. Hyginus Cagaanan, the BSP Coordinator, introduced a group of 23 boys who enthusiastically joined the Boy Scouts of the Philippines. Their eagerness and preparedness to embrace scouting tenets showed their determination to evolve into responsible and honorable individuals.
After the investiture ceremony, the camp's activities unfolded; the first day brimmed with exhilarating events, including a patrol flag-raising contest and a patrol yell contest designed to showcase the creativity and teamwork of each group. A TikTok dance challenge and film viewing were incorporated into the event, offering scouts a platform to display their talents and creativity.
The dawn of the second day, November 18, 2023, commenced with a rising ceremony and morning prayer, fostering a cheerful ambiance for the day ahead. Scouts engaged in invigorating activities such as Zumba exercises and marching drills under the guidance of their respective patrols. Each patrol had breakfast preparation collaboratively, nurturing teamwork and honing culinary skills. The day unfolded with challenges like the BSP and GSP Game Challenge, testing the scouts' physical prowess and problem-solving acumen.
Following a dynamic morning, lunch was served in a boodle fight style—a Filipino tradition wherein food is presented on banana leaves, and individuals partake using their hands. This communal dining experience promoted camaraderie among the scouts. The day culminated with a closing program and an awarding ceremony, acknowledging scouts who excelled in various activities throughout the camp.
The joint BSP and GSP Camporal emerged as a transformative experience for all participants. It forged bonds among scouts and instilled crucial values such as leadership, teamwork, and environmental consciousness. This Camporal was an inspirational platform, motivating young scouts to become responsible citizens dedicated to constructing a sustainable world for all.