On December 10, 2024, Barangay 105, Happy Land in Tondo, Manila, became a beacon of joy and generosity as the Rotaract Club of Arellano University, the Arellano University Supreme Student Council, and the Rotaract Club of A.R.O.M.A. hosted their first-ever charity event, “PAUskuJuan sa Sumulong.” This meaningful gift-giving celebration brought smiles to the faces of 60 children, reminding everyone of the true spirit of Christmas—love, hope, and community.
The event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including Dr. Chio Aesthetics Philippines, HELP Pilipinas, the Arellano University community, and private donors, who helped turn this vision into reality. With the energy and dedication of hosts Samantha and Marienelle Mendoza from the Rotaract Club of Arellano University, the program unfolded with heartwarming activities and unforgettable moments.
The event featured a variety of engaging and educational activities designed to bring happiness and impart valuable lessons. The “Healthy Smiles” session combined fun demonstrations on dental hygiene and water conservation, teaching kids essential practices that promote both personal health and environmental stewardship. Additionally, the “Dear Santa” workshop allowed children to unleash their creativity through arts and crafts, filling the venue with vibrant colors and big dreams.
Between these educational segments, the air was filled with laughter and cheers during parlor games like “Stop Dance,” skillfully hosted by RAC AU Past President Carl Ashleigh Erlano and Diane Pedrosa. These moments of play showcased the children’s boundless energy and uncontainable joy, creating memories that will surely last a lifetime.
At the heart of the event was the Tree of Hope, a centerpiece symbolizing collective effort and compassion. This initiative was not just a decorative feature but also a powerful fundraising tool. Supported by various organizations and departments across the Arellano University community, the Tree of Hope raised essential funds that made the gift-giving event possible. Specifically, the Rotaract Club of Arellano University raised ₱9,000 through booth item sales to support this initiative. Additionally, the time and skills invested in conducting educational seminars added significant value to the event, promoting long-term benefits for the children and the community.
The Tree of Hope served as a reminder of the impact of coming together for a common cause—spreading joy and hope to those in need. The smiles on the children’s faces were a testament to the generosity and dedication of everyone who contributed to this meaningful initiative.
For many Rotaract members, the event was more than just a day of giving; it was a meaningful experience that left a lasting impact. Khate Nicole Madera shared, “Gift-giving in Tondo is my second experience in Rotaract, and it was wonderful. We gave gifts and made happy memories with so many kids. Watching them enjoy the programs and games was heartwarming, and I hope we can do more of this in the future.”
Elaine Bacani added, “Being part of a Rotaract gift-giving event in Tondo was truly meaningful. The children’s genuine excitement reminded me of the beauty of simple joys. Despite their circumstances, their smiles were filled with warmth and gratitude, which touched me deeply.”
As the event concluded, representatives from Dr. Chio Aesthetics Philippines and CP Miguel Bermido from HELP Pilipinas delivered sincere messages to the children of Barangay 105. Mr. Evan Guillermo, AUSSC Adviser; President Lincoln Teodoro of the AUSSC; and Vice President Loren Alcantara of the Rotaract Club of Arellano University gave heartfelt closing remarks, expressing gratitude to everyone who made the day possible. The highlight of the celebration was the distribution of gifts—including toys and Noche Buena packages—which brought sheer delight to the children.
The event’s success was a testament to the collective efforts of the volunteers, sponsors, and organizers. From the lively photo sessions to the delicious snacks shared, every moment celebrated the power of giving and the joy of community. “PAUskuJuan sa Sumulong” was not just an event but a reminder that even small acts of kindness can create profound happiness and inspire hope for brighter days ahead.
As the children’s laughter echoed through Barangay 105, the volunteers left with hearts full of gratitude and a renewed commitment to spreading joy and compassion. The spirit of Christmas shone brightly that day, reminding everyone that together, we can make a difference.
Statistics and Impact
The Rotaract Club of Arellano University successfully raised ₱9,000 for the “PAUskuJuan sa Sumulong” event through the Tree of Hope initiative. Beyond financial contributions, the club invested significant time and skills by conducting educational seminars on health and environmental conservation. These efforts not only provided immediate joy through gift-giving but also imparted valuable knowledge that will benefit the children and the community in the long run.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, the Rotaract Club aims to build on the success of “PAUskuJuan sa Sumulong” by fostering greater harmony among university clubs through collaborative initiatives. By joining forces with other school organizations, the club seeks to create unified efforts that can be replicated across various community projects. This strategy leverages the collective time, talent, and treasure of the participants, ensuring that future endeavors will have an even greater impact on the communities they serve.
By: Loren Alcantara and Nancy Sandevi
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