UNIPMA Madiun's Heartfelt Outreach: A Cultural Exchange of Joy in Philippines

TIMESINDONESIA, MADIUN – In a heartwarming gesture of cultural exchange, Sherlin Norma Azzahra, a dedicated student from UNIPMA Madiun (Universitas PGRI Madiun) and an Exchange Student hailing from Indonesia, collaborated with the Community Development Circle under the Bachelor of Science program. Together they orchestrate a unique gift-sharing event with the indigenous community in the Philippines (22/12/2023).

This collaborative initiative, deeply embedded in the community's routine, unfolded in the scenic Barangay Taminla, Dueñas, Iloilo. It's perfectly aligning with the imminent Christmas festivities on December 25, 2023.

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The primary objective of this Gift-Giving activity extended beyond material offerings. It sought to nurture hope and positivity within social interactions, cultivating a spirit of positivity among the locals, and instilling a sense of empathy and care for the indigenous community.

The team shared not only essential provisions such as food items, stationery, toys, sandals, school supplies, and books but also a shared moment of cultural exchange and joy.

The meticulous planning for the event commenced with the committee preparing an array of toys, books, school supplies, sandals, and thoughtfully packed food items. Once the preparations were complete, the event commenced with a heartfelt prayer, followed by warm welcoming remarks from Sir Andrew G. Falsis, the esteemed head of Community Development, and insightful speeches from local authorities, including the Chairman, Jan Vincent Ganila.

The essence of the event went beyond material gifts; it encapsulated the spirit of "Kalipay sa Pag-Ambitanay," an activity focused on sharing happiness. Engaging in games and distributing gifts to children aged 5-14 and deserving mothers, the event radiated a sense of cultural unity.

The profound hope was that this initiative would not merely bring joy to the recipients in Barangay Taminla but also create a lasting cultural connection. As Sherlin shared, the activity offered her a unique perspective into the lives of indigenous children and the local community, showcasing their resilience and enduring spirit despite facing challenges.

The event's poignant conclusion was marked not only by the distribution of gifts but also by a spirited dance performance, symbolizing a farewell and expressing gratitude to the children and the indigenous community in Barangay Taminla, Dueñas, Iloilo, Philippines.

"At the end of this event, my friends from the Community Development and I danced together as a farewell and goodbye to the children and the indigenous community in Barangay Taminla, Dueñas, Iloilo, Philippines," Sherlin Norma Azzahra explained.

This cultural exchange followed by Sherlin Norma Azzahra of UNIPMA Madiun (Universitas PGRI Madiun) not only left an indelible mark on the recipients but also strengthened the bonds of understanding and goodwill between diverse communities. (*)

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