21 minute read
HIRAYA: A VISION
HIRAYA:
A VISION
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Written by: JCI Mem. Samantha Kamil A. Sasin 2020 President, JCI Davaoeña Daba-daba
2020 wasn’t what we hoped for, especially for us as Local Organization Presidents. We started with the President’s Academy full of enthusiasm and the desire to take on challenges for the year ahead. However, things didn’t go as planned, a lot has happened and all our plans were disrupted. We had to shift to the thing called the “new normal” from the earthquakes, to the eruption of Mt. Taal, to this COVID-19 pandemic. Quarantine happened and we had to stay indoors. Only minimal movements were allowed, but that didn’t stop us from doing what we are supposed to do. We innovated, from physical meetings to online meetings. We did things virtually and ended up with positive results.
It wasn’t as easy as people expected it to be. “Easy lang yan kasi puro virtual na ang lahat”. I beg to differ. It wasn’t. I doubted myself. Yet with the help of my batch Hiraya presidents and my board, I could honestly say, I bounced back and got up on my feet and made everything work. I didn’t want to dwell on the things that aren’t relevant. Instead, I decided to choose what’s best especially for JCI Davaoeña Dabadaba.
Hiraya is also a deeper form of the word hope in which, this year, we have been giving hope to those who are hopeless. Despite the pandemic, we made a difference. I am proud of what batch Hiraya has accomplished. If I could only hug each and every one, I would. We may have had cancelled plans or wasted ideas, but we are resilient. We gained more wisdom, we overcame. But most importantly, we gained friendship. Never did I ever regret becoming a “Pandemic President”.
Here’s to 2020 and here’s to overcoming inevitable circumstances.
Written by:
JCI Mem. Hannah Cano 2020 LO President JCI Duwaling
HANNAH CANO: A LABAN INAHAN’S LASTING LEGACY
There have been an unforeseen turn of events for all 2020 JCI Presidents and Board of Directors, brought about by the series of calamities and disasters that occurred. The last tenet of our JCI Creed which states, “Service to humanity is the best work of life”, has truly been put to action.
I strongly believe and anchor my presidency on the value of collaboration and partnerships with stakeholders, chapter members and other JCI chapters, to deliver service and create impact to the community. Hence, the 2020 Chapter Theme was coined as “Tambayayong ug Timbang Para Sa Ugma Nga Lamdag”. In English, it translates as, “Collaboration and Balance for a Bright Future”.
20 impactful projects and programs were successfully implemented in spite of it being a “pandemic term”. These projects facilitated at least 6.35 MILLION worth of donations that impacted approximately 46,353 beneficiaries. We collaborated with over 100 stakeholders and partner organizations to implement projects and programs effectively. The 2020 Batch Hiraya term has proven to be a year of crisis. However, JCI Duwaling has proven to be resilient despite the aftermath of strong Mindanao earthquakes and the ongoing fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Our chapter remains to be an active chapter as it is able to quickly respond to the needs of the community. Setting aside a lot of initial plans made during the BOD Strategic Planning for the year, we prioritized the pressing needs of the community at hand.
On some days when there is no helper, there has to be a “no excuses mindset”. I literally carried my toddler during one of the relief operations. In times of crisis, the most important thing that a leader should do is SHOW UP and let your members see and feel your presence.
I hope that my one year to lead as a 2020 LO President have inspired some women and children to rise to their destiny in becoming more for others.
HALIGUE ON MOVE 2020: MOLDING OPPORTUNITIES, VOLUNTEERISM ENGAGEMENTS
Written by:
JCI Imus Haligue
This COVID-19 pandemic changed the landscape of everything in this fragile world. During this unprecedented time, I don’t think we should allow the rare opportunity to reach out and help our fellowmen. Because of this crisis, we encountered difficulties that changed the routinary activities of our daily lives. On the other hand, we had a once-ina-lifetime opportunity to watch in real-time how the effects of social distancing can impact the lives of many. Each of us was in a bubble.
In the months of March and April 2020, I stayed at home because of the nationwide community quarantine and lockdown protocols. During that time, a lot of uncertainties came to my mind - staying at home means caring for yourself and for your family. To plan and execute a project during quarantine was something I thought of as difficult and impossible. But thanks to our Past President Roy Tingco and Immediate Past President Paeng Alarcon and their unwavering dedication to serve and help our fellow Imuseños, we were able to conduct several Community Projects like Project SOPAS, “Distribution of healthy meal to a family”, Distribution of relief goods and hygiene kits, and Project Distancia where we served as frontliner volunteers during Sunday mass services in the Our Lady of the Pillar Cathedral Parish in Imus. We also conducted several online membership meetings, trainings, a webinar, and a lot more.
As the saying goes, in every beginning there is always an end. My One-Year-To-Lead was filled with disastrous events from earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, fire incidents, the COVID-19 pandemic, and a lot of typhoons. Despite all the happenings, JCI Imus Haligue heed the call to rise up and address the needs of our fellowmen. With the help of our friends, benefactors and partners, we donated canned goods, noodles, bottled water, biscuits, rice, hygiene kits and toiletries to our dear kababayans in the Provinces of Cagayan and Isabela who were affected by Typhoon Ulysses. We also gave relief goods and hygiene kits to the families affected by a fire incident in Brgy. Sineguelasan in Bacoor City, Cavite last November 1.
I started and ended my term doing Oplan Kaagapay and Community Service Projects. JCI has time and time again proven that no matter how hard and dangerous the situation is, there has been and will always be ways to touch the lives of the underserved and the underprivileged. As the 2020 President of JCI Imus Haligue, my leadership capabilities were tested in times of crisis due to the limited ways available to respond and take action. But I am very much delighted with the enthusiasm shown by my members and Past Presidents. Thank you also to NC Scott Valencia and NSG Jolo Walican for your guidance and support. Last November 19, 2020, the City Government of Imus and the City of Imus–Youth Affairs Office recognized our deeds during the pandemic. We were awarded the BAYANIhan Award during the Outstanding Kabataan Awards 2020. JCI Imus Haligue also received the Platinum Seal of Efficiency and 2 Star Impact Awards.
Indeed, we are living our JCI values, mission and vision by turning our hearts into action. Through that, we were able to tap our networks, adapt swiftly to the needs of the present, and assemble at the forefront with a common purpose to work together; and achieve great things as we create a longlasting impact for the people in our communities. The pandemic taught me a lot of lessons and ideas that can be useful for my future endeavors. This experience won’t falter my resolve to serve my countrymen but rather challenge me to serve and be an inspiration for others. I think this is my calling - to serve, wholeheartedly and passionately. Truly, “Service to humanity is the best work of life.” Together, let’s keep moving.
KAGAYHAAN GOLD : BREAKTHROUGH@32
Written by:
JCI Kagayhaan Gold
True gold will always stay gold no matter where it is placed, no matter what season of life it is, no matter if light does not exist. In Kagayhaan Gold, we remain true to what we are called for—to let real gold radiate from within us even during the darkest hours.
Being the president during a pandemic was not easy. It was a journey through various seasons and phases. Some were incredibly joyful and victorious, while others were very dark and discouraging. But as a leader, I needed to have FAITH. I believed God was in control and I trusted HIM that he would keep his promises to me. Indeed, God never left me nor has he forsaken me. He used people to be instruments to help me on my leadership journey and I am grateful because, despite the challenges and circumstances, our chapter managed to hit the mark.
Kagayhaan Gold’s goals for this year were met. The LO was able to conduct 2 major business/ fundraising projects and was able to raise a total of Php181,050.00. The said amount raised was used for the various community projects and programs implemented by the LO with Php77,902.00 left as income, way ahead of our target which is to earn Php5,000.00 and leave Php10,000.00 for the next administration.
Membership growth (20%) was achieved.
The LO wished to receive at least 2 Agung Awards and a JCIPEA Platinum Efficiency Award. However, during the JCI Philippines 40th Mindanao Area Convention Agung Awards, we were able to receive more than what we wished for. On behalf of the chapter, I humbly accepted five Agung Awards for Best Local Organization Publication, Best Youth Activities, Best Fundraising Program, Best Personal Skill Development Program, and Most Outstanding Local Organization Category 3; three Merit Awards for Best Civic Involvement, Most Outstanding Project Chairman, and Most Outstanding Family; the Platinum Seal of Efficiency; and the Motivate Award for Training.
Our member was also declared the champion during the Public Speaking competition.
Indeed, Breakthrough@32
THE TRUE WEIGHT OF BRONZE:
A TESTIMONY FROM A HIRAYA PRESIDENT
Written by: JCI Lantawan Laya
Istarted my JCI journey in 2017 when the charter President of JCI Lantawan Laya, PP Jen San Pablo invited me to an OTI at a local secondary school. There I met high ranking dignitaries from JCI Metro Basilan. Back then, I was not fully aware what JCI is and how the whole process works. Though, I already saw posts from friends regarding the organization. It was during that time that I discovered from one of the speakers, PNVP Jamju Rivera that JCI is formerly known as the “Jaycess” when we were in high school. It never crossed my mind that I will become an active member of this organization, since I was quite skeptical then.
In 2017, I became the VP Collaborate of the chapter and subsequently became the LTD to Secretary the following year. Time moved swiftly and in 2019, I was elected as the Executive Vice President of JCI Lantawan Laya. I have joined several projects, met new faces and people from other chapters. I started to attend Regional and Area Conferences. From a mediocre start, we were trained to lead a local organization with the best potentials that we have. As I often hear, JCI is a training ground for future leaders. Here, we were trained how to manage and practice our leadership skills, to motivate our members and create an impact to our communities. As an advocate of positive change, we always aim to be better than our usual self. Helping one another through partnership and collaborations, and fostering the true spirit of brotherhood. I am a witness of how winning together works. As they say, “No man is an island” and in JCI we cannot stand alone.
Hence, I always encourage others to participate in every activity that we have. This is for them to experience and love serving humanity. Although JCI is an organization composed of young active volunteers, we still push our members to attend seminars as these are beneficial to their skills and personal development.
As I looked deeper and engaged myself with more JCI events, I came across various people and experienced a lot in several plenaries I attended. I got the chance to be part of the National JCIP elections in 2018 and 2019. Never did I plan nor envision to become a President. Yet no matter how you wish to decline it, what is meant for you will surely find its way en route to you.
So in 2020, I was elected as the 4th President of our chapter. I remember exactly how ambivalent I was to the scenario then. If my friends noticed, I never posted the result of the election as I was considering many aspects before accepting the position to which I am elected such as my family, career, time and social life.Accepting the gavel and medallion is no joke as the responsibilities along with it are quite heavy. I remember the first reaction of my husband. He asked me casually “Hon, I saw the post earlier. You have been elected as the President of your LO”. I replied, “Yes”. So the conversation ended there. The next day while headed to town he asked again, “What have you eaten? Why did you accept the Presidency?” “You know we lack money these days right?” It passed through my ears like a tingling sensation that directly sent an impulse to my brain. I was speechless for a moment and replied, “You know me, whenever I enter into something, I always want to excel or if not, make a graceful exit.” Let me just do what I can and when my best isn’t enough, there are many good morning towel in the market!” So he gave up.
Upon hearing the result of our BOD Election, a lot of my JCI friends congratulated me with their warm greetings. Some already gave their advice and these lines served as my guiding star, “Do not stress yourself. If your members don’t support you, it’s okay. It happens to most presidents. Remember that being a Jaycee is voluntary, there is no forcing. If they attend to a project, commend them and if they don’t, leave them and focus on the active ones. They know their responsibilities and once they are committed to their chapter, they will make a way in.” Another important instance that marked my whole Presidency was in the 2020 Natcon General Assembly. I was the chief delegate and I received our gavel and bronze seal of efficiency plaque. As usual, my friends took the moment to jokingly tease me that our bronze plaque is heavier than their silver, gold and platinum. I was surrounded by top presidents , so I was the underdog in the group. Yet one of the presidents seriously asked me, “Pres, if I may ask? What will be your goal?” Of course, it was premature to answer then as I was new to the circle. I didn’t know what to answer. That question did not end there. The same IPP constantly updating me and asking how it was going and what have I done as of the moment. At first I got pressured but in the long run, I got used to it as I updated him and his wife of our standing and so with my tf Nellie. These people were part of my journey and they made me accept this presidency well.
Furthermore, I am thankful that I have batchmates who are great visionaries, our barangay Hiraya. These people were my adrenaline and I thank God that he put me in the right time and place of which I am grateful for. Our term was a roller coaster. At first attaining a 75% efficiency rate and obtaining a gavel was hell, but now the Platinum plaque will soon be held by our calloused hands and a 3 Star Award was unexpected. It was only a dream then. I never imagined that we will be given the opportunity to attain it. Now I can laugh along with friends, knowing our plaque weighs lighter this time. I couldn’t be more proud of myself and our active Layans.
Let me end with a line from a famous author and motivational speaker, Simon Sinek; “Working hard for something we don’t care about is called stress. Working hard for something we love is called passion.” Life comes only once, and if we do it well, once is enough! Furthermore, I am thankful that I have batchmates who are great visionaries, our barangay Hiraya. These people were my adrenaline and I thank God that he put me in the right time and place of which I am grateful for. Our term was a roller coaster. At first attaining a 75% efficiency rate and obtaining a gavel was hell, but now the Platinum plaque will soon be held by our calloused hands and a 3 Star Award was unexpected. It was only a dream then. I never imagined that we will be given the opportunity to attain it. Now I can laugh along with friends, knowing our plaque weighs lighter this time. I couldn’t be more proud of myself and our active Layans.
To our members, let us continue to work hand in hand for our chapter. Accept every challenges that comes our way. We can do this! Together let us translate our vision into action.
Let me end with a line from a famous author and motivational speaker, Simon Sinek; “Working hard for something we don’t care about is called stress. Working hard for something we love is called passion.” Life comes only once, and if we do it well, once is enough!
JCI LAMITAN
Written by:
JCI Mem. Abdurahman A. Uto 2020 LO President JCI Lamitan It is also of an immense honor and privilege that I was given a year to lead. Not just to set as an example, but to uplift once again the banner of JCI Lamitan by bringing home the JCI Philippines’ Platinum Seal of Efficiency with 3 Stars Impact Awards despite the struggles and hardships I have encountered in achieving this; which members barely know about, but LO Presidents can easily relate to.
However, I still want to thank everyone, especially Lord God/Allah for this wonderful and life-learning journey. That I can consequently share to the succeeding leaders of not just the JCI Philippines, but to the different leaders of our respective communities, Inshaallah.
Leadership calls for inclusivity. Your highest academic attainment does not define you. It is your passion and heart to help the community and the development of other people and society to achieve unity, camaraderie, and progress.
This has been your JCI Lamitan’s 2020 LO President, signing off.
In these most challenging moments, we have faced many hardships that we almost let go of our goals on why we, in the first place, have accepted the responsibility in leading our respective Local Organizations. However, in these most challenging times as well, we have proven and found ourselves to be somehow significant to the community.
It is with utmost respect and appreciation I can give to the people behind the success of my presidency. That despite all the crises, we were able to turn them into opportunities. We were able to help thousands of people, both in the frontline of these battles and those who were victims of this fight. To the men and women of JCI Lamitan, JCI Philippines, the entirety of the Junior Chamber International, my family, friends, and to my Batch Hiraya Presidents for the unparalleled camaraderie and bonding in order to develop and become better versions of ourselves.
FROM THE PREXY
Written by:
JCI Mem. Mialin Rose L. Ferrer 2020 JCI Lingayen Bagoong President
is what most of us described the year 2020. But behind these words lie a memorable journey. This year I became the Local Organization President of JCI Lingayen Bagoong on its 40th year.
Life has knocked me down a hundred times. I have been through many hardships and lost my way that it came to a point that I tried to kill myself. I suffered from depressions that I don’t see my life’s worth anymore. But like a damsel in distress, someone held and saved me, and I am thankful to them—God, my family, and my husband.
So this time, I reset my life. I regained myself and became more aware of the many blessings I have and keep on receiving. It is this time that I also want to be back on the path and to continue pursuing my studies, while making a career and creating a family.
As life goes on, there is this feeling that there is something missing. A realization that I need to do something— to serve my purpose. And from that point, my JCI journey began. I became more involved and in love with what we do in JCILB. I’ve been active for almost 3 years until two of our Past Presidents approached me and told me to be the next president. I was in shock that I immediately refused at first saying, “I wasn’t ready. Don’t get me wrong. I love JCILB, but maybe I really wasn’t ready for a big role.” But they told me, “Nobody is ready, as long as your commitment is there, and we are always here to support you, you can do it!”. And there we go, I became the LO President in a blink of an eye.
Being the President is challenging, yet very fulfilling. To give back everything to the community even through simplest projects to more complex ones, the smiles of those we helped are priceless.
It’s true when other presidents said that there will be times you’ll cry during your term and I did. As one of our PP said, “Your presidency is not worth it if it’s not a tough ride.” Well, I can attest to its trueness. Being the president doesn’t mean you always have to be good and perfect. But here in JCI, we become the president to learn more how to be it. JCI has been the best training ground for leaders.
I may not be the perfect president that JCI Lingayen Bagoong had, but I KNOW I AM IN THE PERFECT LOCAL ORGANIZATION that trained me to lead and discover myself. I love you, my JCI Lingayen Bagoong, Serving with Passion and Leading with Purpose.
JED MANGUERA:
LEADING THE FRONTLINE
Written by:
JCI Lipa
JCI Lipa won the Most Outstanding Chapter Award Category 3, the first time in its 21 year history, at the 42nd JCIP National Convention on October 13, 1990.
Aside from the win, what was more surprising was that then JCI Lipa President Fernando “Boy” Manguera was not present to receive the award. People were wondering, what could be more important than this moment? As it turned out, his wife just gave birth to their first son, Jed Bryan Manguera.
30 years later, that newborn baby, Jed is elected as the 51st President of JCI Lipa, an organization that has been a part of his life since the day he was born.
The challenges of 2020, highlighted by natural calamities and the COVID-19 pandemic, put into light the value of civic organizations like JCI. How each member’s contributions, big or small, can create a ripple effect and result in something great. Being in the trenches during one of the most challenging times in recent history, allowed him to witness individuals’ vulnerabilities, the humanness of decision making, and the impact of leadership on the welfare of entire organizations, countries, and people’s lives.
Throughout the year, Pres. Jed remained resilient and ensured that the challenges would not deter them from fulfilling their responsibilities to the community they committed to serving. Led by his innovative vision, JCI Lipa diverted their initiatives to adjust to the new normal and continued to make an impact despite the situation.
As 2020 nears its end, the entire world remains clouded with uncertainty. But Pres. Jed will leave this year with his head held high as he led from the frontline. He witnessed the resilience of every JCI Lipa member, and together, they never gave up.
