- Article by: MMalaza, VGarcia
- Provincial Agriculturist's Office of Oriental Mindoro
In a bid to equip the youth with vital agricultural skills and foster unity among 4H Club members, the Provincial Agriculturist’s Office hosted a dynamic two-day Provincial Youth Camp. The event, held on August 2-3, 2023, at the Gabutero Organic Farm and Resort in Bongabong, saw the enthusiastic participation of 105 4H club members from different municipalities of the province.
The camp featured an array of activities aimed at providing the youth with practical skills and knowledge related to modern agricultural technologies. Mr. Mark Jayson S. Alcobera of the Agricultural Training Institute delivered insightful lectures on Digital Marketing, while Mr. Allan Jun F. Malicsi shed light on the critical topic of Mental Health Awareness, recognizing the holistic needs of the participants.
The engaging program included various competitions such as On-the-spot mobile photography, 4H short film, 4H Tik Tok, and Plant and Animal Identification. These competitions showcased the participants’ creativity and skills, adding an element of excitement to the camp.
A Candle Lighting Ceremony, a cherished tradition among 4H Clubs, took place during the first evening, instilling a sense of continuity and tradition. The Socials Night, featuring the crowning of Mr. and Ms. 4H Oriental Mindoro, brought glamour and entertainment to the event, with Mr. Rocel King James D. Labaguis of Bansud and Ms. Hanna Allysa A. Atienza of Victoria claiming the coveted titles.
Beyond the titles, participants were recognized for their achievements in different categories. Notable winners included Alexander Caganan of Gloria for Short Film, Jake Empasis of Gloria for On-the-Spot photography, John Raven Lumabi of Socorro for Tiktok Video Making, and Lerma de Guzman and Danica Fababaer of Naujan for Plants and Animal Identification.
Expressing his gratitude, Marc June T. Fajutnao, 4H Federated President, emphasized the significance of this being the first major activity for 4H clubs, post-pandemic. The event received an added sense of prestige with the presence of Hon. Elgin Malaluan, Bongabong Municipal Mayor.
The Provincial Youth Camp emerged as a holistic experience, successfully combining educational sessions, competitions, and traditional activities, leaving a lasting impact on the youth participants and setting the stage for future endeavors in modern agriculture.