Before a journey takes flight, it must first remember where it began. The Tzu Chi Youth Life Camp 2026 continued its exploration of compassion and service through “Origins of Flight: Tzu Chi Bohol Roots,” a session that traced the beginnings of Tzu Chi’s presence in the province and the people who helped carry its mission forward.
The story of Tzu Chi in Bohol began after the 7.2-magnitude earthquake that struck the province on October 15, 2013, one of the strongest earthquakes recorded in the Philippines. The disaster affected thousands of families, damaging homes, communities, and public structures. In response to the devastation, Tzu Chi volunteers came to Bohol to provide assistance to affected families through relief operations, medical missions, and other forms of support. What began as a response to a disaster eventually grew into a long-term commitment to serve Boholano communities.
Hosted by Brother Renz Boyson and Assistant Camp Head Joshua Barbacina, “Origins of Flight: Tzu Chi Bohol Roots” featured guest speakers Brother James Chua, Brother Joven Uy, and Brother Jack Gaisano, who shared the challenges and experiences behind building Tzu Chi’s volunteer network in Bohol.
Hosted by Brother Renz Boyson and Assistant Camp Head Joshua Barbacina, “Origins of Flight: Tzu Chi Bohol Roots” featured guest speakers Brother James Chua, Brother Joven Uy, and Brother Jack Gaisano, who shared the challenges and experiences behind building Tzu Chi’s volunteer network in Bohol.
Over the past 12 years, Tzu Chi Bohol expanded its work across the 4 major missions: charity, medicine, education, and humanistic culture.
One of its major projects is the Happy Home Project, which provides safe and secure homes for families in need. From July 2022 to June 2026, the project completed 356 housing units across Bohol, including 132 units in Sagbayan, 11 units in Loboc, 27 units in Tubigon, 31 units in Getafe, 152 units in Inabanga, and 3 special care units.
Trixie Mae Balucan reflected on the story of Tzu Chi Bohol. For her, it was not only about its history but also about the people behind the mission. “I think it represents the foundation of compassion, unity, and service that Tzu Chi has built in Bohol. It is not just about the history, but also the people who touched our hearts through their volunteer work and community service,” she added.
For camper Trixie Mae Balucan, a Social Studies major from Bohol Island State University (BISU) – Main Campus, learning about Tzu Chi Bohol’s history deepened her appreciation for community involvement.
“After the session, I appreciated more the community work and volunteerism. I came to realize that even our micro efforts can create macro effects in our community that can positively impact our country as well,” she said.
“After the session, I appreciated more the community work and volunteerism. I came to realize that even our micro efforts can create macro effects in our community that can positively impact our country as well,” she said.
Similarly, Irish Ashanti Requierme, a nursing student from Mater Dei College, shared how she first learned about Tzu Chi through its humanitarian efforts. “I know that they’re here to help those in need, especially those who are victims of earthquakes and Typhoon Yolanda. That is how they were discovered, through their medical missions,” she shared.
Beyond the stories of assistance, Irish Requierme also realized the struggles behind building a volunteer community. “One thing I learned from our guest speaker is that they also struggled. They had a hard time finding volunteers here in Bohol. With that, you will see how determined they are and how compassionate they are to help our community,” she said.
She described Tzu Chi’s service as something built not only through donations but through the dedication of volunteers. “Based on what I learned in the session, the Tzu Chi Foundation is genuinely compassionate and selfless in service. This would not be possible just through money that is donated but also through the service of volunteers” Irish added.
From the roots planted in Bohol, the campers then crossed beyond local communities through “Crossing Continents: Stories of Compassion from Africa,” led by Sister Ya Chi.
The session brought campers to communities in Africa, sharing stories of challenges, resilience, and humanitarian efforts that showed how compassion continues beyond borders.
Among the stories discussed was the experience of communities that rely on cassava as a major food source. While cassava provides nourishment for many families, certain varieties contain natural cyanogenic compounds that can release cyanide if not properly processed. In areas where food insecurity and limited resources affect preparation practices, long-term consumption of improperly processed cassava has been associated with Konzo, a neurological condition that may lead to permanent weakness and difficulty walking.
The discussion emphasized the importance of knowledge and education in addressing community challenges. By sharing safer food preparation practices and strengthening awareness, communities are empowered to protect their health while creating sustainable solutions.
For camper Charity Joy Roma, a Civil Engineering student from Bohol Island State University (BISU) – Main Campus shared the stories from Africa became a reminder that compassion extends beyond differences in culture and background.
“After I witnessed the photos and videos shown during the session about the conditions of people in Africa, it taught me to show compassion and help other people even if they come from different cultures and backgrounds,” she said.
She also shared how the session expanded her understanding of Tzu Chi’s mission.“ This session expanded my knowledge and learnings about the missions of Tzu Chi, especially because it was very inspiring,” Charity added.
For her, the stories also created a deeper realization about the reach of compassion.
“One of my realizations is that Tzu Chi’s compassion toward others has no bounds — even if you come from a different culture, country, background, or speak a different language,” she said.
Meanwhile, John Jemuel Lomocso, a student from Tagbilaran City College, reflected on the role of volunteers in creating change.
“After learning about the lives of people in Africa and especially the volunteers, I learned that Tzu Chi’s work impacts a lot of lives, especially in South Africa, through volunteerism,” he shared.
“Volunteerism does not just give hope but also gives purpose that can transform lives in meaningful ways, helping build a better future and a world where everyone feels safe and included,” he said.
As the stories from Bohol and Africa came together, campers were reminded that compassion is not limited by distance. Whether through rebuilding homes, supporting education, responding to health needs, or reaching communities across continents, service begins with people choosing to care.
The day concluded with Reflection Time, allowing campers to process the stories they heard and reflect on how they can carry the spirit of compassion beyond the camp.
