The Volunteers

In June, 2006, the first two sisters of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians: Sr. Rosalia Panganiban, FMA & Sr. Catherine Urgello, FMA, arrived in Macarascas to continue the program started by Bishop Pabillo on an ad-experimentum basis.

The first two volunteers recruited by Fr. Pabillo in 2001: Ms. Buena Hacermida  & Ms.Joy  Chavez were both past pupils of the FMAs. They took care of the needs of the scholars- 14 girl boarders, who then were enrolled in the nearby public highschool: Macarascas National Highschool.

In the school year 2002-2003, two more volunteers from Manila: Ms. Alicia (Ate Leclec) Tamporon and Ms. Lizzette de Leon, and Mr. Eugene Bautista from Victorias City, reinforced the growing tasks of running a dormitory.

In June 2004, Fr. Pabillo’s request for 2 full-time volunteers from the Jesuit Volunteers Philippines (JVP)Foundation Inc. was granted and every year thereafter:

1. For the school year – 2004-05: Ms. Jika David and Ms. Jet Ong were the first volunteers JVP sent to Macarascas;
2. SY – 2005-06: Ms. Beth Borromeo  and Ms. Rhey Cobre
3. SY – 2006-07: Mr. Gyobs Baguio and Ms. Mary Rose (Lotlot) Cabil
4. SY – 2007-08: Ms.Anna Katerina (Annie) & Mr.Fredric Brian (Lippy) Lipio

A continuous flow of volunteers was seen in these past years. Private individuals hailing from different parts of the country leave the luxuries of metropolitan living and embrace the simple lifestyle of the learners. They not only share their talents and knowledge but they share their lives. They accompany these boys and girls as big sisters and brothers in their journey toward full Christian maturity. In the end, these dedicated and committed volunteers discover a life that is freer, happier and more authentically human and steeped in prayer.

SEMD continues to invite:

• emotionally mature, well-educated, highly dedicated volunteers willing to take up the challenge of sharing their lives with these beloved children of God who are marginalized by poverty which is not of their own making;

• volunteers who ardently desire to make a difference in the lives of others;

•  those who wish to temporarily risk, and leave the security of home, family, friends and comfortable lifestyle – to be POOR that these children may experience the “fullness of life” promised by Jesus Christ, and in so doing, one finds fulfillment and meaning in life!