Loon, Bohol- The final day of the Bohol Tzu Chi Youth Camp at the Carmelite Learning Center in Tontonan, Loon, Bohol, on July 13, 2025, brought together over 200 attendees composing of Tzu Chi commissioners from Taiwan, Manila, Cebu and Bohol, TCY personnel, youth campers, community volunteers, staff, and alumni for a meaningful close to three days of learning, growth, and connection.
As the camp came to a close, Camp Head Mark Anthony Boiser fought back tears, recalling the loss of their guiding light, Brother Michael Siao. “I was worried,” he admitted, “but I remembered his words ‘You can do it.’ With that and the strength of the team, we carried on.” His heartfelt message reminded everyone that with love and unity, even the hardest moments can lead to something beautiful.
Mark’s words echoed a journey that began in uncertainty but blossomed into a meaningful success made possible by the unwavering commitment and unity of the organizing committees. Every volunteer, coordinator, and support staff who worked tirelessly behind the scenes were honored and celebrated for their time, sacrifices, and heartfelt dedication that brought the camp to life.
Following the recognition of personnel, attention turned to the campers who gave their all throughout the event. Over twenty awards were presented to individuals and groups who embodied the values of the Tzu Chi path like Spotless Squad, Master of Discipline, Harmony Ambassador Award and many more. The Best in Talent Award was given to Group 3 and Group 4, whose original song-and-dance performance stood out for its creativity and message of compassion.
Group 3, Barangay Matinahuron, earned the highest distinction as Overall Champion for their outstanding unity, discipline, and camaraderie, rightfully earning the title of Team Supreme. The program wrapped up with a heartfelt sharing session, revealing just how deeply the camp had impacted its participants.
Jossel Dalagan Tanginan, the camp’s Curriculum Head and an incoming fourth-year mathematics student, shared that the experience reshaped her view of leadership, not as a burden to carry alone, but as a journey of trust, patience, and teamwork. Faced with the pressure to lead and deliver, she learned to lean on her team, listen more, and grow in humility, ultimately rediscovering the true essence of service.
An incoming third-year Office Administration student Jay Ace Amoncio, described the camp as a life-changing experience that opened his eyes to the deeper meaning of service and compassion. “I learned the importance of compassion, empathy, and kindness, not just in words, but in the small, everyday actions that truly make a difference,” he shared. Inspired by the lessons and moments he encountered, he now carries a renewed sense of purpose, vowing to become a more responsible and compassionate person who makes a positive impact in the lives of those around him.
Taiwan volunteers surprisingly receive gifts and certificates of appreciation from the Tzu Chi Foundation Bohol, honoring their dedicated service and compassion throughout the entire camp.
Taiwan volunteers joyfully join in applause as campers receive awards as groups during the camp.
Taiwan volunteers humbly accept gifts and certificates of appreciation from the Tzu Chi Foundation Bohol, recognizing their unwavering dedication and compassion throughout the camp.
