LCP Mon Espera
Last September 23, with the initiative of LCP Peachy Pasion of RC Pasay Cyber City, the Joint Effort of Pasay Rotary Cubs (JEPROCS) conducted virtual a vocational skill training to the clients of Marillac Hills. The Hills houses clients of 127 girls aged 7 to 18 years old who were sexually abused, exploited, maltreated and youth offenders. LCP Emely Bonife of the RC Pasay Friedens taught them how to make bath and body oils by demonstrating it via zoom. The ingredients in making the oil were delivered to Marillac Hills in advance so the girls can do it hands-on with the virtual demonstration.
Then on Oct 18, the JEPROCS, this time initiated by RC Pasay Southeast, went back to Marillac Hills to give hygiene kits. The Center Head, Ms. Farrah Cabrera, permitted us to conduct this project face to face but only 5 of us LCPs were admitted, and only 25 senior high school clients were allowed as audience in the covered court.
The giving of hygiene kits was preceded by an inspirational message from a retired Philippine Navy Commodore Luzviminda Camacho, the first female officer to command four navy ships. She was also the first female United Nations Contingent Commander in the military component leading the 17th Philippine Contingent to the UN Stabilization Mission in Haiti composed of 11 navy officers and 145 marines and sailors. Subsequently she was tasked as the Commander of the Joint Task Force Liberia that spearheaded the successful repatriation, quarantine and post-quarantine of the 142 members of the 18th UN Philippine Contingent to Liberia to ensure that all its members are free from Ebola virus disease. She narrated her struggles to success in the male dominated organization to raise awareness to the clients of their hidden potential for leadership. Up to now it is uncommon for a female officer to command a company of soldiers as such, this short talk resulted in a spirited question and answer dialogue.
This project achieved the objectives of the center which, among others, are; to help the girls and young women cope with the stress and develop positive attitudes; to stimulate their development of potentials, interests and capacities for economic self-sufficiency; and to assist in the development of social concern for clients to become self-motivated and responsible. This kind of project should be continued as clients of the center come and go. Those who are found to have been rehabilitated, recovered and ready for reintegration in the community are released and hopefully inspired by the words they heard. And for those who remain inside should have the privilege to meet more inspiring women.
