An overseas formation trip to the Philippines was organized by the Hong Kong Lasallian Volunteers last 15 to 22 June 2013. The volunteers experience various community services done in the country.
Their formation experience began on their second day, with a Street Walk in Commonwealth, an exposure program that gave the volunteers first hand experience of the living conditions of street children. This was followed by a visit to the Kuya Center, a home for street children aimed at rehabilitation and reconciliation.
Next, they visited Bahay Pag-Asa (The House of Hope), located in De La Salle University-Dasmarinas (DLSU-D). The center aims to nurture Children-in-Conflict with the Law (CICL). The volunteers took part in a two-day program with the residents.
Lastly, the volunteers also visited Gawad Kalinga (GK) in Baseco.
Throughout their trip, the volunteers were also able to visit five different campuses in the Philippines – La Salle Green Hills (LSGH), De La Salle University (DLSU), De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB), De La Salle University-Dasmarinas (DLSU-D), and De La Salle Health Sciences Institute (DLSHSI). Below is an excerpt from their reflection paper:
“The delegates were deeply touched by the community service done by the Lasallians in the Philippines. The Filipino Lasallian brothers and sisters also showed their warm hospitality to the participants.
The Hong Kong Lasallian Volunteers Formation Trip 2013 was indeed an eye-opening and memorable experience for the participants. Even though we have been told of the social realities from various corners of the world, the impact and influence can never be the same as witnessing it with our own eyes. We are glad that the Lasallian brothers and sisters are taking care of the less fortunate in response to the call of Saint La Salle. With the experience and success of the trip, a similar trip for the new volunteers would likely be held in a few years time. “