A Step in Reviving the Cadet Program

Belong, Believe, Become.

This was the theme of the 2007 Workshop on Reviving the GSP Cadet Program held last July 15, 2007 at the GSP NHQ Imay Pecson Hall, Manila. Eight cadets and two senior girl scouts participated in the said workshop.

Facilitated by Program Committee Members Dr. Febe Marl Gamio-Paat and Katheri Ann Charcos and also by Program Division OIC Ginnie Oribiana, the workshop was intended to promote a strong sense of sisterhood among participants. It also aimed to re-orient and/or confirm to the girls the strength of the Girl Scout Program, to solicit initial and new ideas for the revived GSP Cadet Program and to create a core group of Cadet Scout Leaders who will spearhead the revival of the GSP Cadet Program.

GSP President Teresita Choa also visited the girls in one of the sessions to know their concerns regarding the revival of the Cadet Program. During the sessions, the participants had the chance to voice-out their opinions and suggestions. They also made their own action plans for the implementation of the GSP program in their respective schools.

At the end of the day, the participants felt that they BELONG to the Girl Scouts, BELIEVED, that they can actually make things happen and BECAME girl scouts who are confident that they can be what they really want to be.

Eagles Soar, Ducks Quack

As I look at my photo album, I saw my picture when I was in kindergarten. I was wearing a green uniform, a hat and a pair of black shoes. I smiled. I realized that I’ve been a Girl Scout since kindergarten. Ten years in the making, huh?!? But still, even though I am a girl scout in that span of time, I cannot say that I have what it takes to be a great girl scout serving my people. It is because girl scouting is not about longevity; it is about the matter of the heart.

Some girls entered girl scouting because they believed that the organization can hone their skills and abilities. Others join for an additional extra-curricular activity. Other people only wanted to have the benefits. Some joined because their teacher forced them. If you’re a girl scout because of these reasons, then you should be called “girl scout na hilaw.” Yes, you’re still unripe. But do not lose heart because there is always room for improvement. Just like what happened to me

During my elementary days, I had a low self-esteem. People say that I am thin (when the wind blows… shooo… I will be missing!), I am ugly (that’s why I was never a part of special presentations during my 1st grade). I was also scolded one time because my partner in computer classes accidentally switched off the computer that’s why I had a fear in using the computers. People also laughed at me when I get low scores in mathematics. They also tease me because I am slow in taking notes and my handwriting does not fit my beautiful paper. Because of all the discouragements I had in elementary days, I did not shine.

But in high school, I had the opportunity to become someone that people thought I would never be. I had the opportunity to become a leader, a journalist. At times I become the doctor, the clown, the guidance-in-charge, the computer technician, and a lot more. Since I am student leader, my imperfections should not be seen. I should be the model (but I am human so I am still imperfect). Even though I am already tired, I should still do my duty… I should be what people want me to be because I don’t want them to feel being rejected…

I was the SPB chair in our school. But my foundations in girl scouting is shallow. I do not know so many things, but I should be all-knowing because I am their leader. Because of that, I developed the “never say no” attitude. I learned things by myself. I read books; I browse the net to gather information. But my passion in scouting was stirred up when I became the representative of the Manila Council in the 2005 National Senior-Cadet Conference.

Like my co-participants, that was my first time in the City of Pines (Oh.. not my first time because my mom grew up in Baguio and she told that she brought me when I was 2 years old!). I was inspired by the hardworking staff (special mention to Ate Kat and Ate Trinia…) who willfully devoted themselves to equip the girls for us to be responsible leaders in our respective councils. Indeed it was successful because I went home bringing the attitude of leading the people around me.

But things did not happen according to my plans. A lot of unreasonable circumstances occurred. I wanted to give up, but I didn’t. I just remember that in a battlefield, the commander-in-charge do not easily give up but fight till the end. The NSCC was also held at the end of the triennium.

We are not forever young. We all graduated from high school and entered different colleges. There is no cadet program in our university so my passion was burned-out. But still God made a way for that burning passion to be wakened. My mode of transportation every time I go to school is the LRT. One day in September, I felt so depressed because I have to do a lot of things. But when I am about to depart, I saw a very beautiful and bubbly person (cash and checks are accepted here, haha!) whom I never saw for a long time. Ate Kat astounded me (trivia: She really inspired me that’s why I was so persevered to enter UP) and asked for my number. She told me that they are planning to have the NSCC at the start of the triennium and they were looking for volunteers. That 5-minute conversation caused me to be in Baguio the second time around.

During the planning of the conference last October, I had the chance to meet the people whom I will work with. I was so glad seeing Ate Trinia, Ate Kat, Ate Teza (she was also active during the 2005 NSCC), Ate Renz (who visited us), Teesha, and the girl representatives from each region (Kathleen, Charmae, Angel, Valerie, Dawn and Eunice). I also had the chance to work with the Tita’s at NHQ. We already had the atmosphere of camaraderie months before the conference.

Planning was not that hard for me (because everyday I plan my things to do or else I’ll forget them). I enjoyed the times when we were planning the activities and all other things. Some of them were too idealistic. But we are so passionate to train all the participants to lead the change (Oh! I remember! It took us hours to make the theme of the conference!) The biggest challenge that Ate Kat and the rest of the staff gave me is the GSP World Café.

I love to surf the net, but when I enter college, I do not have the time to surf unless it is very important. And also, our pc now is suffering from memory gap and other signs of old age (whoever offers free medication, the pc is just here!). I am also always “kuripot mode” that is why we do not have 100+ kbps. The GSP World Café is a blog, I created one when I was in high school, but I already forgot how to make. I scour to be able to know it’s history, and its technicalities. I had a hard time uploading pictures (in a dial up, it will take a thousand years. haha!) and other features. I have to go to an internet café for a fast connection speed.

Everytime I received a new article from the planning staff and other girl scout, my ears would clap. Ate Trinia and I and the rest of the planning staff were wanted to cry when a participant visited it and posted a message in the tagboard (we almost cry, but we reserved it for the closing ceremony!=)).

When we arrived at Baguio, I was excited to see the computers sponsored by PLDT (They were really a blessing to us). After the arrival of the participants, I had a feeling of depression because it was raining (its mood is really contagious). But seeing all the participants happy made me feel glad. When all the patrols were gathered, I always had the question “who will be the techno patrol of the day?” I cannot find the right words to describe what I felt every time the techno patrols submit their article. Maybe for some writing is just the relationship between a paper and a pen. For me, it will not be completed without the heart of the writer.

The conference was a fast-phasing one. Maybe because we are all busy that we lost our sense of time and date. We also enjoyed all the activities that we forgot goodbyes will do come. I did not cried so hard (yes, what you saw is not yet my full potential as a cry baby! haha), not only because I will miss all of the people, but because I know that everyone who will go home will be very much different from the ones who arrived at Ating Tahanan. I was not mistaken.

Today is the deadline of the blog from each region. Their techno patrol, which is consists of very beautiful, talented and bright young ladies (special gifts are also accepted here.. *wink*) moderates their blog. I was astonished when I checked their blogs because I only taught how to create the blog but they managed to have a very good one (Ohh.. you techno patrols always make me cry..*tears*). At least I know that I was able to share what I have in me.

I wrote a list of the things I wanted to do before I die (so that I will die smiling…). One of my goals is to inspire a thousand people (that will multiply..). That’s why I wanted to be great someday. I know that girl scouting is God’s instrument to train me. Honestly, I am a better person now.

Discouragements from people made me think that I will just be a duck that only quacks. But I didn’t give up because I know that God wants me, and all of us, to be like eagles that will soar high!

Step up the the stairs...not stare up the stairs.

It was 5:45 in the morning, when Ate Teza whistled with so much energy though tired after a very busy evening and the work they did together with the staff. Few minutes after, the sleepy girls gathered at the conference hall but then, they were all transformed into active and alive girl scouts through the harmonious Pilates Physical fitness session of Tita Mavic. Their bodies, muscles especially their power house were exercised and stretched that made them awe with much fun and body pain (since Pilates was new to the girls and not yet used to exercises like it).

After a relieving session, the girls had a very delicious and healthy breakfast that gave them the right energy to interact with the next activity in the morning which was the evaluation of action plans by region.

It's amazing and very overwhelming to know that Girl Scouts at a young age are already aware of the things happening in their environment. They all presented their action plans guided by the S.W.O.T. analysis (Strength,Weakness,Opportunities and Threats), goals,strategies and plans. They were all very eager to initiate and implement their proposed project as soon as possible and realized that if you are failing to plan, then you are planning to fail.The session was audienced by Ate Kat, event coordinator; Ate Trinia, NSCC Chairperson and the rest of the staff.

The evaluation was then followed by a mass with Rev. Father Adelbert Barut of San Pablo Seminary. The morning activities was a great success and ended with smiles on the girls faces bringing the thoughts of LEADING THE CHANGE. :>

We are now prepared... To Lead the Change

This afternoon we had tackle 3 sessions the blog, print, and internet..

This is albout in mass communication or what called the networking.

After all the session have been tackle each group present there outputs which is related to there assigned topic.

After all the presantation have been done the most memorable moment have come....

It is '' THE CLOSING CEREMONY ''..

All the girls have mix emotions like happiness because atlast the confirence have been come to its end. While its on the middle of the ceremony all of the girls crying and treasuring the memories that have been build in the conference.. Even the planning staff's are crying. All the girl scouts feel the sacrifices of the planning team..

In be half of the Girl Scouts of the Phillipines we would like to say thank you for a job well done..

Action Planning...A Dare to Take the Lead!

What is action planning all about? Action planning is important in organizations before starting any activity. It is specially important in Girl Scouting in performing different activities such as encampments, seminars, workshops and conferences. That's why, the first session that we had in the third day was all about it. Making an action plan ahead of time results to a better output of any activity. Also, the activity implementation is well-organized all throughout.

Representatives from each region were grouped aiming to practice action planning. Here are some proposed action plans from each region:

• Northern Luzon, Central Luzon, Visayas and Western Mindanao
  Regional Senior and Cadet Conference
• Southern Luzon
• GSP Membership Campaign

Everyone in this said conference is asking for your cooperation to make these proposed projects possible. Dare to take the challenge and lead the change!

Girls of Wanderlust

It is undeniable that every participant in the National Senior-Cadet Conference was excited to conduct the first part of the tour in the City of Baguio; everyone did prepare, and nobody could conceal the perked up grins in their faces.

The group preceded to The Mansion, went to the Mines View Park, which is their second destination; had a peep on the faces of the real beams of the horses in the Wright Park, and enjoyed the cool fog the Philippine Military Academy usually offers.

Everbody enjoyed taking photopgraphs which serve both as their documentations and remembrance from the City of Pines; though the weather didn't cooperate with the said event that much, the participants didn't still forget to purchase pasalubong for their loved ones.

We had fun with the cold weather the City of Baguio renders and we precisely enjoyed the temporary freedom our Ate's and Tita's gave when the schedule for the Market already took place.

We're lucky to be considered as a part of the National Senior-Cadet Conference! We give you the grins.

Overflowing Stories...Overflowing Lessons

"It is better to endure the hardships of learning than to suffer from the bitterness of ignorance." This is a relevant quote relative to what we have just done today-- attending our sessions and activities.

During sessions, delegates listened attentively to speakers to gain more knowledge about different topics such as peer education, ARH, self-esteem, body talk, flower arrangement, fine dining, intergenerational relationship, stress and time management, empowering women and strategic leadership. As a result, after each session, girls earned different information about certain topics.

In the morning, one of the sessions dealt on peer education and ARH. After the discussion, the girls were asked to do activities where they could put into action what they have learned. There were sessions about self-esteem (and also the body talk), where the self-confidence of each participant was enhanced.

"Learn to improve your personality through a positive way" is the best sentence that summarized what personality development is. Tita Maveec taught the girls how to walk, talk, stand, pick a thing or do something properly. In the intergenerational relationship session meanwhile, the girls learned that it is normal to commit "gaps" between them and their parents and grandparents due to changes brought by time. But what is important is that we do something to fix that gap between them.

Girls like us usually love flowers that’s why many girls chose to attend the session about flower arrangement where they’ve learned styles and techniques in arranging flowers.
So, that’s what the girls did for the whole day. They were very attentive during sessions because they believe that someday these things will help them. Indeed, it is better to endure the hardships of learning than to suffer from the bitterness of ignorance.

Expectations

One’s level of expectations is desired depending on the kind of camp/activity that is intended to be undergone. As we are attending this National Senior-Cadet Conference ’07, we undoubtedly hope for the positive outcomes of it. This confab, will surely bring out the best of who we are and we’ll be honed to become well-rounded individuals. We do expect to gain knowledge and further learnings about certain things which are unknown to us. Likewise, we have in mind the expectation that we’ll be generating unexplored strategies on how to become effective leaders and followers in the future. It is indeed expected that we’ll be establishing friendships among our co-girl scouts coming from various councils. For sure, leadership topics won’t be omitted in this conference. We are hoping that our skills will be enhanced. Also, we are expecting that we will be trained into becoming independent and responsible citizens. Lastly, its time for recreation as well! We are in full anticipation in seeing the beauty and nature of Baguio.

Impression: What I Found?!?

We weren’t hesitant to join in this National Senior-Cadet Conference ’07, for we know that the learnings that we’ll be acquiring, will be of great help. At the start, we find it really hard to adjust with our environment for the ambiance and people are unfamiliar to us. We thought that this confab will be boring knowing that there are numerous lectures but then, it turned out that we were absolutely wrong. The resource/guest speakers were undoubtedly entertaining. The staff was well-accommodating and friendly. The confab site definitely coordinates with the climate. We look forward to visit the historic landmarks in this city and the facilities. We are glad that the facilitators wholeheartedly accept their mistakes and faults.

The Conference Has Officially Started!!

The rain poured but spirits were high when the conference was declared open. Ninety-six girls and young women from the 95 Girl Scout Councils trooped to the Philippines' City of Pines, Baguio City, for a 4-day conference with the theme "LEAD THE CHANGE" Uplifting Young Women's Potentials to Break Boundaries and be Effective Leaders.

The Opening Ceremony was graced by the presence of the National Officers of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines, Baguio City's political leaders, and members of the mass media.

An orientation then ensued, where concerns were clarified and house rules were laid down. Participants were then given a chance to get to know each other and make new friends.

After refreshments, the girls had a chance to know all about leadership. They listened well as key concepts on the topic were revealed.

The day ended with a talent audition for the Senior Girl Scouts and a separate session for the Cadet Scouts. The Seniors started the preparations for their Night-In, while the Cadets talked about improving the Cadet Girl Scout Program.

The day was certainly packed, but each moment was definitely an experience of a lifetime!

NATIONAL SENIOR-CADET CONFERENCE
MAY 21- 25, 2002

Opening Remarks of Mrs. Teresita Choa

National President

Today, we are truly blessed. We have a beautiful morning. We are in the company of beautiful Girl Scouts and I can feel this place reverberating with the enthusiasm and vibrance of an organization that is propelled to succeed.

In this triennium 2006 to 2009 I have several dreams. One is to make all Girl Scouts realize that change can be their friend. Second—that technology can be a solution, not the one and only solution. Third, that developing girls to be strong, coping women—equates with a strong community and nation.

The future of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines depends greatly on you, our emerging leaders. You are the reason for today’s conference of Senior and Cadet Girl Scouts. To provide continuity to GSP’s legacy of service to girls and young women worldwide. To cascade the imperatives and benefits of our 8-point challenge to present and future Girl Scout generations. To develop and nurture Girl Scout leaders of GSP’s six regions and 95 councils.

Indeed leadership and leaders are the operative words for this 4-day interaction among Senior Scouts and Cadets. A leader has myriads of roles. Let me mention some, in the context of Girl Scouting:

Navigator-Strategist
Mobilizer
Captivators
Communicator
Fund Raiser
Guardian
Catalyst
Servant Leader

The Navigator-Strategist plans the journey and steers the ship to arrive at the destination of a just and humane organization whether at International, National, Region or Council Level. She has foresight and definitely an analytical mind.

The Mobilizer knows how to implement and execute well. She builds alliances with concerned sectors to achieve complex objectives and builds consensus.

The Captivator inspires unity, trust, enthusiasm, and optimism among the people, and moves them away from complacency and cynicism. She has charisma. She motivates and is proactive.

The Communicator articulates what the organization does and what it expects the members to do and achieve. She knows when and how to project her organization effectively.

The Fundraiser has the ability to source funds both from outside and inside the organization. She has the connections, the creativity and the credibility to mount revenue generating programs.

The Guardian is the protector of the organization’s secrets, its integrity, its image, its culture, values and ideals. She is the staunch proponent of good governance.

The Catalyst initiates and innovates. She is the risk-taker. She will dare to venture where angels fear to tread. She sees the big picture and anticipates change before it happens.

The Servant Leader is the most unique role of all and the most challenging. To be a servant leader is to know how to be a follower and comply with rules and policies. At the same breath, she knows how to lead and serve one’s flock with humility and a caring heart. Service is second nature to her. The Servant Leader is one of the crowd, yet shines the brightest.

Which of these roles do you identify with? One young woman perhaps, could not possibly be all that I have described. And that is why we have various levels and positions within GSP—to assume each of these roles, and to assure that the leader of each troop, council, region or nation is surrounded by experts with individual skills, attitudes and leadership styles to produce a collective energy for the organization and come up with ONE TEAM. For we are One Team as we are ALL leaders of GSP. Leadership and Teamwork go hand in hand. Good leaders inspire outstanding teamwork.

There are at least five qualities of an excellent leader. Character, competence, conviction, honest and hard work ethic and a deep sense of fellowship or community.

It is my hope that in this Senior and Cadet Conference, every girl and young woman will take the bull by its horns. We are hoping that this leadership training will help you realize your own potentials and intensify your desire and commitment to shape a productive world for girls and young women in marginalized communities.

If you so wish, you have the power to help eradicate poverty in your local communities. You have the capacity to lead the fight against trafficking of girls and young women. You have the facility to promote a safe and healthy environment for your community, and establish educational programs for GSP beneficiaries. If you accept the shared challenges and responsibilities of being a Girl Scout Leader—all these are within your power.
It may seem overwhelming to see oneself as a vital part of a whole—but that is what you truly are. You are a rare grain of sand destined to become a pearl. I’ve always felt that God is biased. He created Girl Scouts to become that special grain.

We at GSP are truly fortunate to have an overwhelming number of outstanding leaders. I pray that you—Senior and Cadet Leaders, pass on the torch of leadership to your successors. Pass on to them the GSP ideals and traditions embodied in our Promise and Laws.
And always remember—the heart of Leadership and the soul of Girl Scouting is Service.
Good Morning!

NATIONAL SENIOR-CADET CONFERENCE
May 21-25, 2007

M E S S A G E

Ma. Dolores T. Santiago
National Executive Director

It is always a welcome respite from the routines of my job as National Executive Director when I come to an event where I see our girls in action. This year’s National Senior Cadet-Conference unleashes our girls’ potentials to be leaders at this stage of their lives which will prepare them for greater responsibilities and challenges in the future.

I salute the planning team of this conference composed of very talented, creative, innovative and articulate young girls who have shown excellent leadership skills. I can see in them the future young Members of the Central Board of the GSP.

To all the participants, I urge you to learn as much as you can in this 5-day conference. You have been chosen from amongst the thousands of girls in your Councils and I trust tat you will make the most of your time to benefit from this learning experience.

When you return to your respective places, tell your families, friends, classmates and neighbors about the wonderful time you had in Baguio and how Girl Scouting is making an amazing difference in your lives. Encourage other girls in your community to join Girl Scouting so that they too will be transformed into dynamic girls like all of you.

You go girls!

My Side of the Story
Teesha Catherine Banta

Hey Girls!!! In your life, have you ever felt that you worth nothing? As if you are unimportant and useless and you do not know anything about the world around you? Then suddenly someone will tell you that they have chosen you together with other smart people to do a very important project? Seems impossible but why not? Right?

Actually this happened to me here in GSP. I am active but only in school and as a camper. Then one day, they contacted me to say they have chosen me to be one of the staffs of the planning team for an important conference. The day before the scheduled date of meeting I cried. What am I to do? I will be with the best girl scouts in the Philippines. I felt very unworthy. But after that meeting I learned that in girl scouting, it’s not about achievements. It’s more on commitment and dedication to serve.

So to all girl scouts there, when you felt unworthy for participating in a big GSP Service Project, just think of this… Be proud with what you are doing, you may have no badges but being a Girl Scout is all in our hearts.

What Girl Scouting is All About…
Teesha Catherine Banta

It’s not about wearing the Girl Scouting Uniform
But how you prove yourself true to the uniform you’re wearing
It’s not about the knowledge in camping
But how well you do outdoors
It’s not about the number of badges
But how full-heartedly you perform the activities
It’s not how you make plans and strategize things
But how you carry out these plans for the benefit of all
It’s not about how many projects you have done
But how you affect the lives of the people you helped
Because Girl Scouting is all in our hearts
It’s not how much we know and how many we helped
But rather, what’s important is our commitment to SERVE.

Girl Scouting in my Life
Valerie Natividad

“On my honor, I will do my duty to God and my country…” these are the first few phrases of the Girl Scout Promise which is recited together with the Girl Scout Law in every Girl Scout Gathering. Almost every registered Girl Scout can recite the Promise and Law…and I mean only recite. They memorize it…period. They can recite it…and up to that only.

Out of the 33 registered Girl Scouts of my section, I only see 4 dedicated Scouts that support the movement and follow the Promise and Law, and the rest only registered for the sake of their grades.

The Girl Scout Promise and Law was made for girls to follow it and apply it in real life, not for it to be memorized and to be recited only in unison.

Being the Visayas Region Girl Representative, I may say that I have already applied the Promise and Law in my everyday activities, in my everyday life. It’s not that I should, it’s because I want to.

C’mon girls, let’s face the truth. Girl scouting really does something to our lives.

Remember the words “Girl Scouting inspired us to become who we really are…”? These words are from successful women of our time- Tintin Bersola-Babao, Lipa City Mayor Vilma Santos, Cheche Lazaro and from the president herself, Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Girl scouting contributed a lot to their success, and not only their lives will be a lot better, but also yours.

At first I thought, “Oh Girl Scouting, this is only for the adventurous ones”, so I excluded myself thinking that I consider myself as not adventurous. But then I decided to try it out. Later did I realize that what I thought was wrong. Girl Scouting is meant for all, whether you are adventurous or not.

Every single girl in this country, regardless of her age, is welcome to the organization which empowers young girls, enhances different skills, and makes potent leaders—the Girl Scouts of the Philippines.

Girl Scouting…..I owe a lot to you..

Dedication + Commitment + Love = a Girl Scout

Michelle Alvarez

As I look at my photo album, I saw my picture back then when I was in kindergarten. I was wearing a green uniform, a hat and black shoes at the stage. I smiled. The thought that was running in my mind was that I’ve been a Girl Scout since kindergarten. Ten years in the making, huh?!? But even though I’m a girl scout in that span time, I really cannot say that I have what it takes to be a great girl scout serving my people. Girl scouting is not about longevity, its all about the matter of the heart.

Maybe it was mandatory that’s why all of us in kindergarten became registered girls scouts. We had an investiture. Then another was done when I was in grade five. We had a lot of activities but I cannot remember that I gained a badge. When I was already a junior girl scout, we have these meetings every Saturday and then we do some fun-filled things. But sadly, girl scouting became just a “Saturday thing”. I am just a girl scout when I am wearing the uniform every Saturday.

When I entered first year highschool, the “Saturday thing” ended. But luckily, in second year highschool, the troop leader talked to us. Eventually, I registered, together with the girls in my section, and the fun starts again. It is not “Saturday thing” anymore because Friday is the Girl Scout day. Our troop leader assigned me to lead the class (or it’s just but nerves become active when someone asks for a volunteer so I raise my hand). I used to be the announcer for certain activities. I was also elected as a part of the SPB in our school. Since then, I became dedicated in serving the girls in our school not only every Friday, but every day. We also conducted our investiture, and commitment followed.

But something is still missing. Yes, I have the dedication and commitment, but I lack the most important thing to be a true servant. And that is love. I only realized that I really love girl scouting and that I am willing to do my best when I attended the 2005 National-Senior Cadet Conference. I was very fortunate to represent Manila Council in that said event. I was very excited (not only because the venue was Baguio City) to met new people and experience new things. I expected so many things, but the conference imparted a lot which are above my expectations. I learned so much in that said conference. I also realized that I love and enjoy what I was doing (which is serving other people) and I want to continue it (till death do I part). When I see young girls who have a lot of badges (and the sash doesn’t have space anymore)… I don’t need to compare mine (which have no right to be put in a sash because they are few). It is because you can say that one is truly a girl scout if she has a big heart in serving other people and not if she has a lot of badges earned.

Last conference, I am just one of the participants who listened to every speaker, who joined all the activities and who was inspired by the knowledge and skills of other girls who are willing to serve the people. Now it is my time to be part of the conference staff who will try to uplift young women’s potential to break boundaries and be effective leaders.

My Experiences in Scouting

Teza Lorraine Marcos

Being a Girl Scout was really out of my mind! Wearing a green uniform, a black belt, a green cup plus a pair of socks with an embroidered GSP logo was a NIGHTMARE! Imagine, the first time I wore my official uniform; all my friends were laughing at me and teasing my get-up. Everyone was staring at me as if I look like a clown! A funny green clown!

Since that particular moment, I promised myself not to wear that uniform in public. Meaning, I don’t want to be a Girl Scout anymore! After all, I was only forced to be a member….

That story and the promised I made happened 8 years ago! Guess what?!! I am now a teacher and a GSP Troop Leader in the same school where I became a Senior Girl Scout. Eight years ago, I said to myself that I want to quit in scouting, but there is something that made me stay. And thank GOD, I never made a wrong decision.

I had attended a lot of camping, trainings and events. I’ve been to many places which I thought will be forever a DREAM. I gained a lot of friends and I discovered my talents. My mother usually calls me a PRINCESS before! Not because we lived in a palace, but it’s because I don’t help in household chores. But in scouting, I learned to become an independent person every time I’m not with my family. I had also conquered my fears! With my “small and sexy-voluptous” body, I had climbed a lot of trees, built a lot of gadgets out of bamboo, and overcome a lot of challenges! All of these contributed for me to be a better person. A person equipped with knowledge and skills. Knowledge that were not learned in the classroom…

And now, I am imparting the teachings I learned to the Girl Scouts in my troop. I am NOW proud to say that I am a Girl Scout in thought, in word and deed!!!

Message from the Vice-Chairperson

Hi ladies! We can all feel the summer heat. Maybe some of you like it, but some may hate the hotness of this season. But I am very sure that you will really enjoy the conference this coming May 21-25. It is jam-packed with a lot of fun and exciting activities. I am Michelle Alvarez (ate mich), Vice-Chairperson of the 2007 National Senior-Cadet Conference and the Moderator of the GSP World Cafe. Ate Trinia made an article regarding the said conference. It’s now my turn to give you some reminders and house rules.

We really want you to enjoy the said conference, that is why we included in the circular sent to your council the things to bring. Again, I am posting the things to bring so that you will not forget it and as early as now you can prepare them! Haha. (excited?!?)

Things to bring:

1. Official GSP uniform
2. GSP shirts (any, at least 4) and pants
3. Physical fitness attire (jogging pants, loose shirts etc.)
4. Toiletries
5. Rubber Shoes
6. Jacket/ Sweater
7. Sit upon/ yoga mat/ extra bath towel
8. Black shoes, white socks, slippers
9. Formal attire
10. Casual attire
11. Black hair accessories
12. Personal medicine
13. Flashlight
14. Camera
15. Bath towel
16. CD’s (any music you prefer to use in the talent showcase)

additional:(not included in the memo)

black handkerchief (to be used as blindfold)

House Rules:

1.Upon arrival, go to the registration booth and ask for the conference guide. Read the instructions regarding the arrival challenge and accomplish the task. Conference materials (bags, shirts, caps, buttons and resource materials) will only be given to the participants who have finished the arrival challenge.

2.During the opening and closing ceremonies, you have to wear the complete GSP official uniform. Take note that there will be a strict implementation of this rule since you were reminded beforehand. As for the plenary sessions and workshops in the conference, you must wear any GSP shirt and pants (shorts and slippers are not allowed). Lastly, in the tour, you must wear the conference shirt and cap.

3.Cellular phones and other gadgets (ipods, mp3’s. etc) are not allowed during sessions.
4.Always follow the schedule in the conference guide. If ever there are changes, they will be announced earlier. To avoid delay, you should come on time.

5.Participants are not allowed to go outside Ating Tahanan or to loiter around while there are sessions.

6.For personal and other needs to be bought outside, ask your patrol leader to make a list and give it to Kathleen Solomon, the planning team business manager.

7.If you encounter problems regarding the assigned quarters and any other concerns (e.g.health problems), just inform Teza Marcos, the guider-in-charge.

Reminders:

1.Please regularly check your e-mail and this website for further announcements and other matters.

2.Prepare at least one presentation (dance, song number, etc.) for the talent showcase. The presentations may be done individually or by groups.

3.Submit your profile (the information needed will be sent via e-mail) so that your co-participants will have an idea of the persons they will be working with at the conference.

4.Kindly submit articles and poems (as mentioned by ate trins) to be posted in this website before April 18.

5. For cadets: Review the cadet manual before going to the conference. A session is included to discuss the program for cadets.


Additional rules and reminders will be announced during the conference. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to send a message. We hope for your cooperation, which will lead to the success of the conference! Thank You! =)

Message from the Chairperson

Hi Girls!!! Welcome to the official website of the National Senior-Cadet Conference 2007. I’m Cadet Girl Scout Maria Trinia Asuncion (a.k.a Ate Triniacute J), chairman of the said event.

I think that all of you are so excited to know what’s in store for you in the coming conference. Our awaited event will be held on May 21- 25 at Ating Tahanan GSP National Training Center in the City of Pines. So you’ll not only enjoy the conference activities rather also the experience of getting in touch with nature and the cool breeze of summer. Amazing!J Hmmm…Want more details? The theme of the conference is: “LEAD THE CHANGE” – Uplifting Young Women’s Potentials to Break Boundaries and be Effective Leaders. Remember that as girl scouts, we have the responsibility to be agents of change, this is why the NSCC’07 will dwell much on enabling you to become such in the society. Big task huh! But of course, along with the tremendous workload is also a bunch of fun (especially when you get to meet the pretty, cool and smart Planning Team. Hehe! Too much of this! J). Moreover, the 5-day conference will focus mainly on Personality Development, Leadership and Effective Marketing of the GSP Program through proper utilization of the mass media. Though I’d love to tell you more about the activities, I won’t do so for it will only spoil your excitement. Right?! Okay! Moving on, you’ll also interact with about 124 girl scouts. So that will be 125 girl scouts (including you! J) from allover the Philippines who will participate in the event. By the way, included in the conference are 2 Baguio City Tours…Yes! You read it right! There are 2 days allotted for moving around Baguio City. More places to visit, more pictures, more stories and more time for shopping ‘pasalubong’. Great, isn’t it?

To add more color to the conference…as early as now you may submit articles and poems regarding your thoughts and expectations of the coming conference, anything about yourself as a girl scout (e.g. what talents/ abilities do you have that you can share in the conference?/ Why were you chosen to be one of the representatives of your region?) or scouting per se. You may send your work to gspworldcafe@gmail.com. Also, please forward your profile to that email address (We will post an example for you to know the details to be included). You may also send your pictures in various GSP activities but don’t forget to include captions of those pictures. Deadline for submission of all of the mentioned things is on April 18. J As a word of advice, give your best shot on making these… You might just be surprised that one day it’s already your work that you will read in this website.

Thank you for spending time in visiting GSP World Cafe. In behalf of the Planning Team, we are all looking forward to working with you on the NSCC’07. See you all in May! Happy vacation and God bless!

At Your Service

2007 NSCC Planning Team

Name: Maria Trinia Asuncion
Council: Rizal
Address: 25 F. Asuncion St., Antipolo City
School: UP Manila- College of Medicine
Birthdate: April 6, 1986
Interests: anything about GOD, my family, my friends, GSP (luv ko 'to hehe! =]), acads (ang toxic!), music, handicrafts, food (although I'm not an expert in this) and kids(I'd like to become a pediatrician someday)
Dream GSP Activity: Networking among girl scouts who have specialized in their own fields. This will enable girl scouts of various professions to be still updated and connected to GSP. Through this, they may serve in further strengthening and improving the organization


Name: Michelle Alvarez
Council: Manila
Address: 2201-L Anonas St., Sta. Mesa, Manila
School: UP Diliman-College of Arts and Letters
Birthdate: May 07, 1990
Interests: reading books, serving the church ministry, discovering new things, surfing the net, movies, other toxic things (hehe!)
Dream GSP Activity: a day of fun-filled activities with Girls Scouts from different nations


Name: Charmae Alquiza
Council: Makati City
Address: B-212 L-16 lower Azucena St., Pembo, Makati City
School: Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino High School
Birthdate: May 20, 1991
Interests: music, going to different places
Dream GSP Activity: a camp with the council girl reps abroad and tour with the C.B


Name: Teesha Catherine Banta
Council: Batangas
Address: 183 Brgy. Poblacion West, Alitagtag, Batangas
School: Alitagtag College, Inc. High School Department Main
Birthdate: April 6, 1992
Interests: music, martial arts
Dream GSP Activity: teach little kids the Girl Scout way


Name: Angelica Sune
Council: Batangas
Address: 005 Roadside Cayponce, Balayan, Batangas
School:Batangas Province Science High School
Birthday: February 9, 1991
Interests: educational discussions
Dream GSP Activity: to attend an international event


Name: Kathleen Solomon
Council: Dagupan City
Address: 659 San Gabriel St., Bonuan Boquig, Dagupan City
School: Dagupan City national High School
Birthday: November 18, 1991
Interests: music
Dream GSP Activity: to have an out of country tour with the C.B.


Name: Eunice Libante
Council: Sultan Kudarat
Address: Crossing Laud, Kalawag II, Isulan, Sultan Kudarat
School: Sultan Kudarat Polytechnic State College – Science Laboratory HS
Birthdate: August 23, 1991
Interests: dancing, playing guitar, books
Dream GSP Activity: international activities, program for the out-of-school youth


Name: Frances Valerie Natividad
Council: Eastern Samar Council
Address: Santiago St, Balud 1, Borongan, Eastern Samar
School: Eastern Samar National Comprehensive High School
Birthdate: April 11, 1993
Interests: playing musical instruments such as guitar and flute,
surfing the web and eating
Dream GSP Activity: an activity wherein girls get to spend more time
with their Tita's and the Central Board, too; with the planning team of the 2007 Senior and Cadet Conference..

Name: Lareen Dawn Baluso
Council: Davao City
Address: Panacan, Davao City
School: Davao City National High School
Birthdate: October 26, 1991
Interests: reading, crafts
Dream GSP Activity: a conference that will turn woman to be leaders

Name: Teza Lorraine Marcos
Council: Bulacan
Address: 52 Hernandez St, Nagbalon, Marilao, Bulacan
School: A.F.G.Bernardino Memorial Trade School (Teacher)
Birthdate: March 28,1984
Interests: Reading books, cross-stitching, mall-hopping
Dream GSP Activity: To attend an international gathering

Name: Katheri Ann Charcos
Council: None (member of the GSP National Program Committee)
Address: 412 City Tower Condo, Aurora cor. N. Domingo Sts, Cubao, QC
School: San Beda College of Law
Birthdate: September 8, 1982
Interests: Watching DVD, travel, reading, listening to music
Dream GSP activity: Reunion of all past participants of the National Senior and Cadet Conference and Philippine Representatives of the Juliette Low Seminar

2007 National Senior-Cadet Conference

“Lead the Change”

Uplifting Young Women’s Potentials to Break Boundaries

and be Effective Leaders.

The 5-day conference will focus mainly on three major thematic areas: PERSONALITY DEVELOPMENT, LEADERSHIP and EFECTIVE MARKETING of the GSP Program through proper UTILIZATION of the MASS MEDIA. 95 senior and 30 cadet girl scouts from various councils allover the Philippines will actively participate in this event. Through this conference, girl scouts will be more equipped to lead in their respective communities.

Definitely a big event and indeed a very overwhelming one, right?

Ever since childhood, I’ve always been interested to things that offer challenges. Truly, I find excitement in seeking the limits of what I can do…But never did it came into my mind that someday I’ll be given the responsibility to lead this conference.

“We don’t know who we really are until we see what we can do” – Martha Grimes

Just imagine, a medical student waking up at 4 am browsing her books who then prepares for an ordinary school day from 8-5pm, who regularly goes to the library during free time, who attends choir rehearsals twice to thrice a week, who goes back to the dormitory to study again and who only drinks coffee to stay awake through the night. Well, this is just an overview of how toxic (med jargon meaning a busy person or something esp. tasks that are too tiring) my life is. Now, imagine how much busier my life will be considering the tasks related to the conference. TOXIC, isn’t it? I know that this event will push me to the limit. It might sound a bit scary for it entails a greater challenge to face. I believe that through this, I’ll be able to know myself better which includes realizing and accepting my strengths and weaknesses. It will help me to further enhance my personality. Moreover, I hope that this event will serve as a learning experience not just to me but also to the GSP as a whole.

"Nothing happens unless first a dream. " - Carl Sandburge

Dreaming is innate to everyone. Even how young or old someone is, he/she would surely dream for something to happen. Dreams may range from something rational to absurd ones and from possible to impossible ones. Although how different dreams are, what’s important is that we hope and do everything we can to achieve those. In this light, the GSP dreams of honing girls to become effective leaders. As early as October 2006, we, the Youth Steering Committee for the National Senior-Cadet Girl Scouts Conference (NSCC) 2007, met and brainstormed to create the framework of the upcoming conference. There I got the chance to work with the smart, pretty and bubbly girl scouts: Girl Representatives from the various regions, selected participants of the NSCC ‘05 and GSP Program Committee members (I can now imagine how they’ll smile upon reading thisJ). Amidst the 3-day draining mental work, we did have fun in planning the activities for the conference. Following the theme “Lead the Change”, most of the activities that we included are totally new in the GSP Program and some of them may even sound too ambitious but still possible. We hope that all of those will push through for they’ll truly be helpful in improving our organization making it more suitable to the new generation.

Ask the Lord to bless your plans,

and you will be successful in carrying them out.

Proverbs 16: 3

- Maria Trinia S. Asuncion

Creative Minds

Ang Buhay Girl Scout
Jennifer Areola, Ilocos Sur Council

Bawat kabataan ay may mga kagustuhan at karapatan,
Karapatan na kanilang pinaninindigan,
Gaya ng mga Girl Scout sila'y may sariling batas at pangako,
At ito'y kanilang itinatanim at itinatatak sa kanilang isip at puso.

Maraming pagsubok sa kanilang mga kakayahan,
Ngunit ito'y kanilang sisikap harapin at hindi tinatalikuran,
Maliit man o marami, mahirap man o madali,
Ito'y kanilang hinaharap upang matuto at ipamahagi.

Sila'y lumalayo sa kanilang mga magulang,
Upang matuto lamang mabuhay mag-isa at tumayo sa sariling paa

na walang kinatatakutan,
Sila'y dumadayo sa iba't ibang lugar,
Upang doon ay hanapin ang iba pang dapat nilang malaman at maging kaibigan.

Sila'y sumasabak sa pag-akyat sa mga matatayog na bundok,
Pagsakay sa mga maliit na bangka,
Pagsakay sa eroplanong dumadaan sa himpapawid,
At paglusong sa tubig na walang hanggan at kay lalim sisirin,

makarating lamang sa kanilang paroroonan.

Ganyan ang buhay Girl Scout,
Maraming kinakaharap na pagsubok,
Ngunit ito'y kanilang nilulunok,

Dahil ang mga Girl Scouts ay walang kapaguran sa pakikipagsapalaran.


Tunay na Girl Scout
Rosamia D. Tubo, Batangas Council

Sa lahat ng oras,
Dapat palaging alerto
Ang isang Girl Scout
Na likas na matalino
Sa bawat gawain
Ngiti’y masasalamin
Sa kanyang mukhang
Kasing liwanag ng langit

Laging handa
Sa bawat pagsubok
Sa mga tao
Dala nila ay respeto
‘Yan ang tunay na Girl Scout
sa isip, sa salita, at sa gawa

Di mo makikita
Minsan ma’y magsinungaling
Mga mata niyang sa langit nakatingin
Maging ang langit at impyerno’y susuungin
Makatulong lamang kamataya’y susubukin
Iyan ang Girl Scout na hawig kay Escoda.



Girl Scouts
Marian Nela Villanueva, Batangas Council

Ang Girl Scouts laging sama-sama
Close kaming lahat sa isa’t isa
Walang hiyaan kanino man
Basta’t kami’y maayos na nagsasamahan

Kaming mga Girl Scouts
Handang tumulong kanino man
Basta’t sama-sama sa lahat ng laban
Lahat ng bagay masusulusyunan

Madiskarte kami sa lahat ng bagay
Hindi umuurong, sa halip sumusulong
Ang hamon ng buhay
Kaya naming lampasan, kaya naming higitan.



Dahil GSP Tayo!
Lovely Grace M. Berti, Batangas Council

GSP na kay galang
Handang tumulong kanino man
Walang pinipili
Walang pinapaburan
Basta’t pagdating sa tulungan
Asahan n’yong laging nandyan

GSP na kay tapat
Maaasahan mo’t mapagkakatiwalaan
Hindi ka mabibigo
Ibigay man ang tiwala
Dahil ang GSP ay tapat tuwina

Kami’y GSP na handang maglingkod
Sa inyo
Pagkat kami’y mga babaeng
Magalang, matapat at disiplinado...
Dahil GSP tayo!!!

Connecting Girls and Ladies All Over the World

The Girl Scouts of the Philippines World Cafe is a weblog.It was made to reach out women of all ages from different areas. This blog will contain articles from the girls in the organization to share their own stories about scouting. News and updates regarding GSP activities will also be posted here. Because of this, we are just one click away!