Pathfinder and CAT Camps at Ucab

On March 2, 86 students came to the school earlier than usual for the long-awaited camping of the school year, Ptr. Valentin Aplod and Mr. Wayne Valera and CAT teachers assembled students in school at around 8 o’clock AM. Three jeepneys took the students to the end of the road in Ucab where the camping was held, they walked down joyfully for 2 kilometers to the campsite. The road was so rough almost all students complained.

The students found the place grassy. They cleaned it first before pitching their tents. The CAT students exerted extra effort since they were not required to bring tents. They built their own huts for them to experience true survival camping.

At the night the Pathfinders had an animal sound activity. This game was a very exciting one. The place sounded like zoo.

At the CAT camp ground, students were tired and preferred to sit by the fire light to tell each other stories before they finally settle for the night.

The next day, while the Pathfinders had their obstacle race, the CAT staged a fire drill where their skills in first aid were applied and tested. In the afternoon, the campers had their camp cookery contests. With this, one can observe which team is most united. When the night came they had their war game activity. Group 1 was declared winner. Everybody enjoyed their game for they played it honestly.

More excitng activities happened the next day like hiking down the campsite and viewing the Balatok lake. In spite of the scorching sun, the students came back happily with their new experience.

The camping was made not only to exercise the physical power of the students but also to enhance their spiritual growth. Thus when Sabbath came, each unit had its part in the program like portraying Bible stories, offering prayers, and singing their favorite songs. The most exciting part of all was the trip to heaven.

While many ended sadly to hell, a few happily found themselves in heaven. The students had learned that while living on earth waiting for Jesus’ return, lots of obstacles hinder them to reach heaven but if they stand firm and true, they will reach heaven victoriously.

The last evening was scheduled for the Talent’s Night. As the teachers witnessed the program they were able to discover the students’ talents like Jev Tuldague who was awarded as the best actor.

The last day was filled with mixed feelings. It was not easy to say goodbye but the comfort of thought after 5 days of camping. They had learned to love that place and they enjoyed their socialization with their friends and classmates.

The campers left with light hearts and precious memories of outdoor life with the dearest people on earth friends.

// FAS

*Taken from Mountain Echo Issue 4 Volume 1
Beulah Shairah Dao-ayan - editor-in-chief
Mrs. Nancy D. Zarate - Principal
Date of Release - June 2006