The Department of Social Welfare and Development – National Capital Region (DSWD-NCR), Haven for Children, organized a three-day summer youth camp to help the children experience the team building activities where they can express and share their talents through active participation in physical and mental challenges. This was held recently at the Philippine Marines Base Camp, Ternate, Cavite.

The summer youth camp carried techniques and strategies which aimed to develop the knowledge, skills and attitude of the children. They were divided into four groups – Red Octopus, Naval Blue Shark, Green Marine Dolphin and Yellow Starfish.

Summer Camp activities
Everyone was very active as they accomplished the activities prepared for them. After making tents as their shelter, they enjoyed swimming supervised by the staff of the center.

In the evening, amazing race and treasure hunting were conducted to test their physical and mental strength. Each resident was eager to win the challenge and showed perseverance and determination.

The residents also showcased their talents and skills during the Solidarity Night held along the seashore.

Philippine Marines inspired the residents

The members of the Philippine Marines encouraged the residents to finish their studies so they can also be a soldier someday. They shared moral values such as respect, perseverance, and discipline, among others. They also taught the history of our country and how soldiers defend it during war.

Moreover, they also had morning exercise, trekking and obstacle course around the base camp.

A summer to remember

The residents were definitely happy with the opportunity. They learned life skills and good qualities such as helping one another, developing friendship and strengthening the camaraderie between them. The residents expressed their gratitude to the members of Philippine Marines and staff of Haven for Children who made their summer 2014 worth remembering.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Marines provided the venue, free of charge, while the DSWD Field Office IV-A lent their truck and the Philippine Air Force provided vehicle which transported the residents from the center to the venue and back to Haven for Children. This gesture resulted to big savings of the Haven for Children.