Davao City (22 December) — A production number ‘Pasko ni Darna’ was performed by the Special Program in the Arts students of Nabunturan National Comprehensive High School. Two songs were rendered by Governor Arturo’ Chiongkee’ Uy. An inspiring Christmas message was delivered by DepED Region XI Director Susana Teresa B. Estigoy. All these highlights would have been enough as an early Christmas treat for some 325 indigent children-beneficiaries from the 13 school districts of Compostela Valley in “Tuloy ang Pasko sa Kabataan” Pamaskong Handog ng DepEd Region XI sa mga Batang Comvaleno on December 17 at Mawab Municipal Gym.
But DepEd XI made it more meaningful in this splendid annual gathering for the most important clienteles–the school children. They went home full of joy and stories to tell about gifts, games, entertainment and meals specially prepared for them and that for sure made them appreciate the true meaning of Christmas—on loving and sharing.
The beneficiaries are seated by districts in their respective superheroes-inspired costumes at the spacious Christmas decorated gym of Mawab. They received a Sponge Bob cartoon character- designed back packs containing slippers, school supplies, toys and other goods.
They were also served with juice and hamburger for snacks and Chicken Joy for lunch. Children watched mascots Hetty and Jollibee’s dance number and posed with them for picture taking.
A 25-minute production number of SPA students of NNCHS showcased the story of Pinoy superhero Darna battling it out against the villains like Valentina and Babaeng Linta in different episodes. Children were glued on their seats stunned by what they witnessed.
The story of Ding who turned as Darna ended as a dream but taught the children a lesson about heroism and that they, too could be heroes in their own little way.
Applause reverberated in the middle of the story when Governor Uy, dressed like a king, surfaced and sang Gary Valenciano’s Pasko na Sinta Ko. He was joined by the main casts of Pasko ni Darna.
He went down on stage and shook hands with the children and teachers and finally sang Willy Revillame’s Ikaw na Nga. The governor had the children waving their hands on the air while he was singing. After the number, he greeted everybody a Merry Christmas and then led the giving of tumblers to the children.
Susana Teresa B. Estigoy, regional director acknowledged the governor for joining the children in their special occasion. Uy was with Mawab Mayor Evalina J. Jampayas and Mayor Reynaldo Navarro of Laak.
Even in the midst of economic and political crisis that affect the country, Estigoy said DepEd XI had set aside funds to give children a special treat, “there is no reason that Christmas celebration for children will not push through,” she said.
“Isa itong paraan sa pamamahagi ng DepEd ng pagmamahal sa inyo mga kabataan ” she added as she noted that the program was in its fourth year with ComVal being the fourth destination.
Estigoy in red blouse, white long pants and with red Santa Claus’ hat handed three hundred pesos each to thirteen children who symbolically gave her an angel figurine. Recipients received the cash on stage. One thousand pesos was also awarded to Montevista District as the earliest participants to arrive at the venue.
What touched many participants was the director’s gesture of care when she mentioned that one of the children beneficiaries from Maco North District had a fever and with her concern she handed the boy five hundred pesos.
A total of four thousand pesos in cash from her pocket was given by the director to the beneficiaries. She said she saved the amount she should have spent buying a blouse as a Christmas gift for herself while she was in Mall of Asia in Manila the day before. But it was the thought she said of sacrificing one’s needs for the welfare of the children.
Children sang ‘Daghang Salamat’ after the distribution of gifts. It was followed by a Parade of Cakes by Education Program Supervisors, District Supervisors and District Coordinating Principals of the host division.
Regional officials were also given an ornament by the beneficiaries as a token symbolizing the identity of the children of Comval described as delicate but strong and promising.
Dr. Lillian C. Calicdan, schools division superintendent of Compostela Valley presented the participants with their cheers and yells.
Nabunturan West, Maco North, Pantukan, Mawab and New Bataan were awarded as top five best in costumes.
Source: Philippine Information Agency
