CEBU, Philippines - At least 4,000 indigent school children from the 80 barangays of Cebu City attended the biggest Christmas Party for children dubbed as “Pasko sa Uptown” organized by the city government.
Nikki Isma Jimenez, focal person of the Cebu Progressive Uptown Movement which supervised the activity, said there were more participants this year compared to last year. She said they were overwhelmed by the result of the activity which was made possible because of the help of several sponsors. She said the good weather also helped make the event successful at the Labangon Elementary School.
“Naa may uban participant nga dili kaari kay basin daw mag-uwan unya luoy ang mga bata, I told them that there will be no rain today and the children will go home safely, we just prayed jud unya na-shocked nalang mi nga init ang panahon, salamat sa Ginoo gyud,” Jimenez said.
Jimenez thanked the 50 volunteers and the Cebu City Medical Center for giving their time, energy and expertise.
Dr. Elson Tudtud of the Cebu City Health Department said there was no major medical problem during the event.
“Naa ray uban nalipong kay gikan pa sa bukid, so far, wala may problema,” Tudtud said.
The children were given grocery items like canned goods and noodles aside from the free lunch and snacks provided during the event.
Rena Jenn Baring, one of the indigent children who live in Barangay Tejero, said she was happy because she never experienced big Christmas Party in their place.
“Nalipay ko kay naapil ko dinhi, nahatagan ko og pinaskuhan, nabusog ug nalingaw pa gyud ko,” Baring said.
Baring is also looking forward to be joining in the same party next year.
The organizers are planning to improve the activity next year by ensuring that all beneficiaries are accommodated fairly.
“Naa mi laing strategy next year, ang among plan unta kay everyday mi mag-set ug party sulod sa buwan sa December, one day kay one or two barangays ang among i-accommodate para dili kaayo daghan ug mahatagan ug equal accommodation ang tanang bata,” Jimenez added. (FREEMAN)