We celebrate Christmas to renew and share our experiences, engaging in the most everyday acts of love and joy: sharing what we have, spending time with the people closest to us, and giving presents in the hope of bringing a little joy to someone else. In this month’s humanity class, we celebrated the Scholar’s Christmas Party on December 16, 2023, at the K of C, Poblacion II Gymnasium, Tagbilaran City, where 296 scholars attended the event.
The old and new scholars gathered at the venue for the year-end Humanity Class/Christmas Party.
The old and new scholars were divided into 15 groups, with each group presenting a dance, singing, and drama performance that brought joy and smiles to all the participants.
A group of scholars gave their utmost effort to secure the prize during their group performance.
Tzu Chi scholars were delighted in the performances presented by other groups.
Brother Ericson Go Giap also organized a raffle draw for the students, with the electric pot and electric fan as the grand prizes. Sister Lenevie Alisoso arranged entertaining games for the scholars, adding to their overall experience.
The fortunate scholar was selected through the raffle draw among the 296 attendees at the event.
The scholars exhibited great enthusiasm and determination as they eagerly worked together to solve the centipede puzzle to win.
Matthew John Louise Mijares, an old scholar majoring in BS Fine Arts with a focus on Industrial Design at BISU Main Campus, was one of the lucky ones picked during the raffle draw. He says, ‘I am very thankful to the Tzu Chi Foundation for their support, love, and happiness, especially for this month’s humanity class. We enjoyed it and felt satisfied. Overall, in this year’s humanity class, we have been taught something that we can apply in our lives, providing us with knowledge. I am grateful for the gift packs we received and thankful for the raffle draw since I was one of the lucky ones who got picked.’
During the afternoon session, scholars participated in a joyful tradition by exchanging presents, creating a sense of friendship and happiness among them. The exchanging of presents not only adds a wonderful touch to the Christmas season but also maintains the concept of giving and sharing, establishing a warm and inclusive environment among the scholars.
Tzu Chi scholars happily holding the presents they received from the gift exchange.
Tzu Chi scholars holding the gifts they received during the gift exchange.
Before the humanity class for December ended, Tzu Chi Bohol prepared a Christmas gift pack for the scholars to enjoy, including 20 kilos of rice, 2024 planners, and bags filled with ingredients for fruit cocktails and spaghetti.
After the Christmas Party, Tzu Chi Bohol prepared gift packs for the scholars and their families for the holiday season.
Tzu Chi scholars joyfully holding the 20 kilos of rice and the gift packs.
The most delightful season of the year is indeed approaching, and it is the ideal time to spread happiness and love to those around us. Let us remember that the most meaningful Christmas gifts are those given from our hearts and that small acts of kindness may go a long way.
Hanna Faith Mijano, a BS Entrepreneurship student at BISU Main Campus, expressed gratitude for the unforgettable humanity class this month and the Tzu Chi Foundation’s groceries, which greatly benefited her family and enhanced their Christmas celebration.
