Cebuano Scout Frederick Kesner Earns Prestigious National Recognition
In a proud moment for Cebu, a young scout from the city has been honored with one of the highest accolades in Philippine scouting. Frederick Wilhelm Kesner, an 18-year-old graduating senior high school student at Cebu City National Science High School, was recently named one of the Ten Most Outstanding Scouts of the Philippines for this year. He stood out as the sole Cebuano among the ten awardees selected from across the nation, a testament to his dedication and leadership.
From Regional Nomination to National Triumph
Kesner revealed that the journey to this achievement began with a nomination from the Cebu Council, where he was one of three scouts put forward for the award. "After the regional screening, I was the only one who advanced to the national level," he shared. Despite feeling cautiously optimistic during the final selection process, he prepared himself for any outcome. When his name was announced as the eighth awardee, Kesner experienced a profound sense of relief and accomplishment, marking a significant milestone in his scouting career.
An Unconventional Start During the Pandemic
Contrary to the typical image of scouting rooted in outdoor adventures, Kesner's passion for the movement began in an unexpected setting. He joined scouting in 2020, during the height of the pandemic when classes were conducted online. As a Grade 7 student, he immersed himself in virtual leadership courses, organizational meetings, and online competitions. These digital experiences opened his eyes to scouting as a powerful platform for leadership and service, rather than just camping. "I learned that scouting was not just about camping, but about responsibility and helping others," Kesner reflected, highlighting how this formative period shaped his understanding of the scout's role.
Overcoming Challenges in Face-to-Face Activities
When in-person activities resumed in 2022, Kesner dove deeper into ground-level involvement. He attended his first regional camp in Cebu in December of that year, admitting that the experience initially felt overwhelming. "I even considered going home mid-activity," he confessed, but he persevered, pushing through the discomfort. This resilience led him to continue participating in key events, including the 2023 National Jamboree in Passi City, Iloilo. Kesner likened his scouting journey to a relationship that demands patience and commitment, noting, "There are moments when it feels difficult, but you keep coming back because you believe in it."
Scouting as a Call to Service
For Kesner, scouting transcends tents and campfires. "Scouts enjoy those activities, but what really matters is remembering the Scout Oath and Law," he emphasized. "From the moment you wear the neckerchief, you have a responsibility to serve others before yourself." This belief was put into action when Kesner and fellow scouts assisted communities in Cebu affected by earthquakes and typhoons that struck in quick succession late last year. Their efforts demonstrated the practical application of scouting values in times of crisis, reinforcing the importance of service.
Future Aspirations and Lifelong Values
As Kesner prepares to enter college, he plans to carry the core values of scouting with him into his next chapter. He aspires to pursue an aviation course and become a commercial pilot, while continuing to serve as a student leader and volunteer. "I want to keep doing service projects wherever I go," he stated, underscoring his commitment to making a positive impact. For Kesner, the scouting motto "Laging Handa" (Always Ready) remains a guiding principle, not only in his role as a scout but also as a young leader poised to contribute to society in meaningful ways.
