Loon, Bohol — The 6th Tzu Chi Youth Bohol Life Camp officially opened on July 11, 2025, at the Carmelite Learning Center in Tontonan, Loon, Bohol, bringing together over 200 attendees. These included 89 campers, 99 TCY personnel, 18 staff members, 19 community volunteers, 6 alumni, 17 Tzu Chi Commissioners from Taiwan, and 3 Bohol commissioners. With the theme “One Great Village: Nurture Love and Share Compassion,” the camp aimed to guide scholars in their transition into Tzu Chings, the youth ambassadors of the Tzu Chi Foundation, as they continue their journey of service, leadership, and compassion.
Vibrant cheers, drum beats, and cymbals marked the beginning of the camp, setting a lively tone for a weekend of unity and growth.
Brother James Chua, Tzu Chi Philippines’ Deputy CEO and Bohol Coordinator, welcomed the camp participants and Tzu Chi commissioners from Taiwan, whose continuous support strengthens the Bohol Tzu Chi family. Honoring the late Bro. Michael Siao, who founded the Philippines’ Tzu Chi Youth in 1995, Bro. James turned emotional as he shared with the audience, Bro. Michael’s efforts in shaping the foundation of the Tzu Chi youths. Camp Head Mark Anthony Boiser expressed his gratitude, saying, “This family has proudly grown not just by numbers but in spirit, purpose, and impact.”
Throughout the day, the campers showcased their creativity as tasks were thoughtfully assigned based on their skills and talents, such as the venue design, including a bahay-kubo-inspired photobooth, which was built by students from architecture and engineering courses.
One of the key sessions, Tzu Chi Etiquette, was led by Brother Ferdinand Dy, who emphasized discipline, mindfulness, and self-respect.
Camper Nico Antonio P. Moreno, a BSIT student from BISU Balilihan, shared, “Practicing Tzu Chi etiquette means more than just proper behavior’s something you carry beyond the camp.” Janella Dante, an incoming Office Administration student, added, “Learning to do the right things at the right time is something I can bring home and share with my family.”
The afternoon featured Tzu Chi Chat: Tracing Tzu Chi Bohol’s Roots and Affinities, hosted by Tzu Chi alumni Mitzi Pracullos and Renz Boyson. Guest speakers Bro. James Chua, Bro. Jimmy Chua, Bro. Joven Uy, and Bro. Jack Gaisano reflected on Tzu Chi’s beginnings in Bohol, sharing stories of disaster relief, rebuilding, and long-term service. Quoting Master Cheng Yen’s message, “Do not forget Bohol,” they reminded the youth of the enduring compassion that has shaped their community.
As the sun set, campers stood together in song, singing “The Light,” translated into English by the late Brother Michael Siao and sung by Bohol Tzu Chings Mark and Hazel as a united commitment to live with purpose. With hearts full and spirits strong, they embraced the new day as the next generation of Tzu Ching.
