Loon, Bohol- On July 11, 2025, the Tzu Chi Life Camp kicked off at the Carmelite Learning Center in Tontonan, Loon, Bohol, filled with cheers and laughter from nearly a hundred enthusiastic campers. The excitement carried on with the Life Camp Games, eight interactive stations that tested not just physical and mental strength but also the campers’ understanding of Tzu Chi values such as compassion, mindfulness, and teamwork.
For Daniel Bakilid, a 3rd-year Bachelor of Science in Office Administration student from Tagbilaran City College, Station 7 left a deep impression. His group gave up a fragile egg they had protected in exchange for saving a “pregnant woman,” represented by a ball. “It taught us that life is a blessing, and compassion means making sacrifices,” he shared.
Each game became more than just an activity; it was a lesson in unity and care. Daniel added that teamwork made every challenge more meaningful. “We supported one another, listened, and made decisions together.
That’s what made the experience unforgettable.” Through these games, campers learned that real success isn’t about winning, but about growing with others and choosing to care.
Some Tzu Chi commissioners from Taiwan enjoyed watching the campers during the games. Out of curiosity and enthusiasm, they even tried participating in a few of the activities themselves, sharing in the fun and bonding moments.
In the evening, the camp held a talent show where campers expressed their values through music and dance.
One memorable performance came from Milagros Embradura, an incoming 2nd-year Bachelor of Science Biology student from Holy Name University. Together with her group, she danced the “Kindness Song.” “Our goal was to show Tzu Chi’s values with sincere hearts, not perfect moves,” Milagros said. Inspired by a Jing Si Aphorism, they reminded everyone that even small acts of kindness can leave a big impact.
The top prize went to a group that performed an original piece titled “This is Compassion.” With lines like “Giving when it’s hardest, holding through the pain,” the song reminded everyone that compassion shines brightest in difficult times. The Life Camp showed that it doesn’t take grand actions to make a difference, just presence, kindness, and the courage to grow together.
