More than one hundred children from a Lapu-Lapu City community felt the festive spirit of Christmas during a special gathering organized by a local non-profit group.
A Celebration of Hope and Community
The event, titled "Joyful Hearts: A Christmas Gathering," took place on December 13, 2025, at the Soong Dumpsite in Soong Mactan, Lapu-Lapu City. It was hosted by Hokkomslow Organization Inc., a Cebu-based non-profit known for coordinating local and international volunteer work for community development, in partnership with TU & Hokkomslow.
Thanks to the collective backing of families and friends, the gathering transformed into a memorable day brimming with hope, laughter, and love for the young attendees.
Faith, Fun, and Festive Cheer
The program commenced with an inspirational Christmas message from Pastor Catalino Paloga. He shared insights into the true meaning of the season, reminding the children of God's love, the importance of hope, and the joy found in giving. His words established a celebratory atmosphere rooted in faith, gratitude, and compassion.
Following the heartfelt message, the children dove into a series of fun and engaging activities. The schedule included:
- Interactive games that sparked laughter and friendly competition.
- Exciting raffle draws that added an element of surprise.
- The distribution of food packs and special Christmas giveaways.
Each of these elements contributed to the wide smiles and palpable excitement among the young participants.
The Team Behind the Success
The smooth execution of "Joyful Hearts" was made possible by a dedicated team of facilitators and volunteers. Key organizers included Peng Toledo, Tonet Castro, Raydyl Gillado, Schubert Gillado, and Baby Ceballos. They were ably supported by committed volunteer parents who generously donated their time and effort to ensure every activity ran seamlessly.
Ultimately, "Joyful Hearts: A Christmas Gathering" stood as more than just a party. It served as a powerful reminder of the impact of community solidarity and compassion. Through simple acts of kindness and a shared spirit of faith, the event brought genuine light and joy to the children, making their Christmas celebration truly meaningful.
