Christmas Season. It’s the most wonderful time of the year and yet deep in our hearts we wanted to receive something, even not expensive stuff. We have different ways to celebrate Christmas Day, some went for a travel and leisure experience while others enjoyed the feast called Noche Buena together with their loved ones, family, and friends.
Our company Arrow Up Media and To and Fro Digital Marketing Solutions decided to extend our gratitude through our Christmas Outreach Programs 2017 towards Buong Lupa Elementary School at Buong Lupa, Gloria, Oriental Mindoro last December 20, 2017.
We assembled in front of the office around 8:30 am. The struggle was real, we drove through the long and muddy rough road. When we reached the entrance to the school, we were welcomed by a long river and we have to cross it for sure. Some of the residents offered their “kariton” so that we won’t get wet while crossing the river. We hopped on the kariton but we can feel the struggle of the carabao(animal used to plow the field and travel goods and people in remote areas) carrying our weights and the boxes full of presents.
The school instituted 34 kilometers away from the municipality of Gloria was one of the very young schools in Oriental Mindoro which have 204 students mostly are Mangyan’s. Their faces were a mixture of confusion and excitement. They don’t know who we are but they became excited when they saw our gifts for them.
It was never easy, but we loved what we are doing! Few groups of children performed an amazing dance number and to our surprise, they all danced livelily and gracefully. We gave those children Christmas presents and educational supplies. We have also provided umbrellas and clothing for them and for their parents.
Unfortunately, on our way back, there was no kariton because the tires got flat. We have to cross the river for the second time. The current was really strong but we have to endure it just to go through. It was full of fun and adventure.
We did want to thank the children, teachers, sponsors, driver and Arrow Up together with To and Fro Digital Marketing Solution for this program to happen. We will always be grateful to those who gave this opportunity to us. We hope to extend our outreach program by next year for our “katutubong Mangyan”. They do need school supplies and clothes for them to encourage to go to school.
Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year to everyone!
