GIRL SCOUTS HOLD THE INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP EXCHANGE AND DX (INFEX) CONTEST
The GSP SHARES (Scouts Ham Radio Enthusiasts for Service) and our friends from the Philippine Amateur Radio Association (PARA) will hold the Annual INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP EXCHANGE AND DX (INFEX) CONTEST on Saturday, 18 February 2012 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the GSP National Headquarters.
As part of the Thinking Day celebration, Girl Guides and Girl Scouts from all parts of the world will exchange their Thinking Day greetings and ideas on the air through the use of amateur radio as communication tool.
This activity gives our girl and adult members the opportunity to work together to communicate, to connect, to be partners in doing something good for others and to foster international friendship and understanding through the ham radio and the internet.
Our girls from the six regions are encouraged to participate and send the message of peace, love and harmony amongst all nations to make this world a better place.
Download:
International Friendship Exchange (INFEX) and DX Contest 2012
Registration Form
Contest Rules
Logsheet
CHIEF GIRL SCOUT MEDALISTS RECEIVE AWARDS AT THE PHILIPPINE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTER
Five hundred five Senior and Cadet Girl Scouts from all over the country who have completed various development projects resulting to a positive impact to their communities were awarded the Chief Girl Scout Medal on 14 November 2011 at the Philippine International Convention Center. Internationally acclaimed celebrity Ms. Lea Salonga was the guest of honor and speaker.
The Chief Girl Scout Medal is the highest award of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines which recognizes the girl’s leadership, perseverance and sense of responsibility toward active involvement in community and nation building.
176 girls worked on Ecology, 36 on Livelihood, 280 on Health and 13 on Cultural Heritage projects. Some of their community development projects are tree planting, beautification of parks, soap making, food production, feeding, medical and dental services, preservation of historical markers and appreciation and promotion of Filipino culture and traditions.
The memorable event was witnessed by the parents, troop leaders and community members who have been part of the successful projects of the girls.
Click here to view Ms. Lea Salonga's speech.
Click here to view the video of Ms. Lea Salonga's speech.
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BACKSTORY
FUTURE LEADERS IN A SEA OF GREEN
By: Lea Salonga
Philippine Daily Inquirer
November 16, 2011/ 8:07 p.m.
It was an invitation that I couldn’t pass up. The Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) invited me to be guest speaker at the Chief Medal awarding ceremonies last Monday at the Philippine International Convention Center. I did start my career reciting the Girl Scout Promise and Law for my very first theater audition; the least I could do was to express my thanks.
I haven’t done anything as a girl scout to merit any sort of commendation, but the 505 awardees on Monday absolutely have. Coming from across the country – Eastern and Western Mindanao, Northern, Central and Southern Luzon, and the Visayas – they received medals for good work in their communities.
A video presentation showed these young women (high school and early college students) in the field, distributing food, helping with medical care, playing games with children – with a cheerful expression on their faces. All in all, they helped over 20,000 families and some 2,000 children.
One by one, the ladies went onstage, executed the GSP salute, and received their medals with the left-handed handshake (the left hand is closer to the heart, Dr. Salud Bagalso, GSP National President, explained).
I tried to look at each one in the eye. There was not one vacuous stare. In each young woman was someone who had gained confidence in achieving something for herself and doing something special for others.
It took a while to give each scout her medals (one was given to that scout’s mother as a symbol of thanks), but it was worth it to shake the hand of a future doctor, lawyer, or public servant … who could change the world someday.
NEW GSP STAFF ATTEND FIRST TRAINING IN GIRL SCOUTING
The Basic Course for Staff was held last October 17-20 at the Helena Z Benitez National Program and Training Center (HZB NPTC) in Tagaytay City. The course was offered to the new employees of Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) to help them acquire knowledge, skills and attitudes that will motivate them to give their best to the organization, thereby get fulfillment from their efforts and contributions.
A total of sixteen (16) staff participated in the course - ten (10) from the National Headquarters, five (5) from the Visayas Regional Office, Southern Luzon Regional Office and Ating Tahanan NPTC , and one (1) from Batangas City Associate Council. Assistant National Executive Director Myra Contessa D. Sarmenta was among those who attended the training.
During the opening ceremonies, National Executive Director Ma. Dolores T. Santiago formally welcomed the participants not only to the training but to the organization as well. Training Committee Chairman Atty. Susan De Los Reyes also graced the occasion. In her message, she emphasized the real essence of being a GSP employee and that is to be of service to the girls and young women placed under the stewardship of the Movement.
The course was packed with no-nonsense discussions which were very informative and challenging activities which the participants truly enjoyed such as creative patrol presentations, group challenges, campfire and outdoor cooking. Since Christmas is in the air, there was also a “Manito” activity and the revelation was made on the last day of the training.
The closing ceremonies ended on a high note with the participants sharing their honest-to-goodness impressions on the course and receiving their first ever GSP training certificates. Ms. Echaluce, the Chief Trainer of the course left this inspiring thoughts to bring home to serve as their guiding principle as members of the GSP Movement: “In dealing with yourself, use your mind, in dealing with others, use your heart.” The course ended with the traditional Girl Scout Friendship Circle.
Evidently, the Basic Course for Staff has equipped the participants with many invaluable insights about Girl Scouting, but more importantly, it has instilled in their minds and hearts the commitment it takes to become effective and efficient GSP movers.
COMMEMORATING THE FOUNDER’S 113TH BIRTHDAY
September 20 of every year has been declared as Josefa Llanes Escoda Day by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 1214. Girl Scouts from all over the country pay tribute to its Founder by celebrating her birthday through various Girl Scout Week activities and ceremonies.
At the National Headquarters, the professional staff, together with International Commissioner Dr. Amelita Dayrit-Go, held a special ceremony to commemorate the 113th birth anniversary and to remember, through songs and poetry, the great contribution to the Filipino nation of Josefa Llanes Escoda, a World War II heroine.
Her last words to remember were “Take care of the Girls.” Her legacy to love and serve others makes her live forever in the Movement she mothered.
Donations to the Josefa Llanes Escoda Memento Fund are given during this annual ceremony.
REMEMBERING MR. RICARDO “DICK” V. ZAMORA - THE GIRL SCOUT WAY
Ceremonies are part and parcel of Girl Scouting. They are held to honor special occasions, to recognize accomplishments and to pay tribute to people in the Girl Scouting Movement. The Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) carries on the tradition of holding ceremonies, and throughout the years, these have not only brought people in the GSP together, but also strengthened the bond that unites each member of the Movement as one Girl Scout family.
Last September 13, the volunteers and professional staff of the GSP headed by National President Dr. Salud A. Bagalso and National Executive Director Ma. Dolores T. Santiago, gathered for yet another ceremony- the Scouts’ Own for GSP’s dearly departed volunteer, Mr. Ricardo V. Zamora or Dick as he was fondly known. Dick was a former Central Board Member, Public Relations Chairman and Awards and Recognition Sub-Committee Member. He was also GSP’s “musicman” – the genius behind the many musical endeavors of the Movement.
The Scouts’ Own held in honor of the life and works of Dick was held at his wake at the Loyola Memorial Chapels & Crematorium in Quezon City. Inspirational verses and poems about the essence of life were recited. Songs that stir one’s emotions and touch one’s heart were offered. Dick was also honored by GSP colleagues who closely worked with him. As Dr. Bagalso walked down the memory lane, she tearfully thanked Dick for sharing his time and talent with the GSP.
1st National Vice-President Susan R. Locsin, Immediate Past President Teresita B. Choa and Assistant National Secretary Yolanda C. Hernandez also shared their good memories of Dick. Their recollections brought many to tears including members of Dick’s family. Mrs. Irene Zamora-Roman, Dick’s niece, thanked the GSP for affording his uncle with such a solemn tribute.
As an expression of love and gratitude to Dick’s service to the GSP and his gift of friendship and music, long-stemmed white roses were offered as the songs “Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi” and “Hindi Kita Malilimutan” were sang. A short AVP that featured Dick in the company of his GSP friends and colleagues was also shown.
The Scouts’ Own ceremony was GSP’s humble tribute to Dick – a simple man who had enormous talent and love to share to the world. He will always be remembered in the hearts and minds of his GSP family and those whose lives he touched.
GSP KICKS OFF GIRL SCOUT WEEK PRE-CELEBRATION
To kick off the celebration of the Girl Scout Week on September 18-24, the Girl Scouts of the Philippines launched the “GSP Special” Pre-Celebration Activity on September 10, 2011 at the Manila Ocean Park. The WAGGGS campaign “Stop the Violence. Speak Out for Girls’ Rights.” is the fitting theme of the celebration.
Around 1,700 Girl Scouts, Troop Leaders, Council, Regional and National Staff from 25 Councils of Northern Luzon, Central Luzon and Southern Luzon Regions participated. The Central Board Officers headed by the National President Dr. Salud A. Bagalso, 1st National Vice President Susan R. Locsin, National Executive Director Ma. Dolores T. Santiago and other GSP Senior Staff and employees witnessed the celebration.
A short video presentation of the WAGGGS campaign complemented with video clips of Girl Scouts from four Philippine regions reinforced our support and advocacy on the said campaign. The ceremonial signing at the campaign wall “From a WHISPER to a SHOUT” also earned much attention and prompted our girls to write meaningful messages: 1) Let’s find the voice to create global movement to end violence. 2) Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities for a better society. 3) Every girl in every nation deserves respect!
After the official program, the girls explored the Manila Ocean Park. They savored every moment as they rode the Glass Bottom Ride, went to a Fish Spa, viewed the Oceanarium, watched the Bird Show and marveled at the Daytime Fountain Show.
The afternoon was made more meaningful as the girls participated in a hands-on training on Emergency Preparedness and Management Training Program at the nearby Quirino Grandstand. Headed by Prof. Allan Camacho from the Philippine Public Safety College and his team, the girls were oriented in Disaster Preparedness complete with mock exercises, psychological first aid handling and basic fire suppression. It was a day filled with fun, laughter, camaraderie and special training. A day just fit for our Girl Scouts.
GSP PLEDGES "TOGETHER WE CAN SAVE THE PLANET EARTH"
The GSP National Headquarters Staff headed by the Acting National President and Program Committee Chairman Mrs. Susan R. Locsin and Acting National Executive Director Ms. Gloria E. Calotes held a tree planting activity on 9 July 2011 at the Josefa Llanes Escoda National Program and Training Center in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija in line with the WAGGGS Global Action Theme: Girls Worldwide Say “Together We Can Save Our Planet”. 105 Girl Scouts, Troop Leaders, Council President and Council Executive from Nueva Ecija Council joined in the said activity together with the four Central Luzon Regional Staff.
A total of 230 seedlings of calamansi, cashew, duhat, guava, guavano, jackfruit, mango, and santol were planted in strategic locations. The Girl Scouts of Nueva Ecija Council took the responsibility of taking care of those newly planted fruit trees.
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A DAY WITH GIRL SCOUTS WITH DISABILITIES MADE MORE SPECIAL
The Girl Scouts of the Philippines celebrated “A Day with Girl Scouts with Disabilities” in commemoration of the 33rd National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week with the theme “Making the Rights Real for the Filipinos with Disabilities” on 1 July 2011 at the GSP National Headquarters.
The NDPR week is being commemorated yearly by virtue of Proclamation No. 361. It aims to stimulate public awareness on disability issues and concerns that will strengthen the involvement of the different government and non-government organizations including Person with Disabilities (PWDs) themselves and the media.
It was attended by 254 Girl Scouts, Troop Leaders, Council Executives and Council Staff from the 15 Councils of Central, Northern and Southern Luzon Regions. The Central Board Members headed by its National President, Dr. Salud A. Bagalso, National Program Committee Chairman, Mrs. Susan R. Locsin and National Equipment Service Committee Chairman, Mrs. Yolanda C. Hernandez showed total support.
Ma. Antonia Raissa Dawn Hernandez Laurel, law student from San Sebastian College, a victim of the September 2010 post - bar exam bombing, gave an inspirational talk. She encouraged the girls to keep their faith in God, treat themselves special and believe that they can do something despite their disabilities.
Circle of Friends Foundation, Inc. (COFFI), a private organization that works toward the empowerment of PWDs, promoted their artworks for a cause. One member even shared her experience as a young Girl Scout.
The Mabuhay Shriners of the Philippines made a surprise donation of wheelchairs for GSP beneficiaries.
An entertaining production numbers by the Girl Scouts and inter-active magic show captivated the audience and served as a treat to the Girl Scouts.
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GSP SUPPORTS THE LAUNCHING OF NATIONAL RENEWABLE ENERGY PROGRAM
GSP National President Dr. Salud A. Bagalso, 1st National Vice President and Program Committee Chairman Mrs. Susan R. Locsin, Program Director Mrs. Ginnie W. Oribiana, Program Staff Riza Joy R. Canabo together with 24 Senior and Cadet Girls Scouts and Council Executives from Makati, Manila, Mandaluyong, Pasay and Pasig Councils attended the Launching of National Renewable Energy Program (NREP) of the Department of Energy on 14 June 2011 at the Rizal Ballroom of Makati Shangrila Hotel. His Excellency President Benigno S. Aquino III graced the occasion as guest of honor. He received the first published copy of the National Renewable Energy Program.
There were around 400 RE advocates present during the event including members of the Diplomatic Corps, legislators and policy makers, non-government organizations, RE developers, energy sector stakeholders, community leaders, members of the research and scientific communities, the media and other RE stakeholders.
The NREP outlines the national renewable energy targets and trajectories in the country’s energy and power mix for the short to long term. It contains a framework for action, existing and future measures, instruments and policies for the promotion of renewable energy and provides a roadmap which will guide efforts toward actualizing the market penetration targets of each RE resource in the country.
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GSP PARTICIPATES IN YOUTH BUILD 2011
The Girl Scouts of the Philippines participated in the Youth Build 2011 organized by Habitat for Humanity Philippines on 28 May 2011 at the Site 2 of BayaniJuan, Southville 7, Calauan, Laguna with the theme “Tara BUILD Tayo!”, (Let’s go, Build!)
Youth Build mobilized 1,350 youth volunteers to an experiential one-day simultaneous house building activity and community outreach endeavors. The event also aimed to generate greater awareness on the massive need for decent housing in the country.
Nine NHQ Staff together with seventeen Senior and Cadet Girl Scouts and Troop Leaders from Makati and Mandaluyong Councils participated in the said activity. They were divided into 2 groups and did the house building which included brick passing, brick laying and grouting while the other group helped paint three houses.
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GSP CELEBRATES 71 YEARS OF
SERVING FILIPINO GIRLS AND YOUNG WOMEN
On May 27, 2011, the Girl Scouts of the Philippines observed its 71st Anniversary of being the leading girls-only organization in the Philippines.
It was marked by the celebration of the Holy Eucharist and the Blessing and Inauguration of the GSP Auditorium and Social Hall, both officiated by His Excellency, Most Reverend Socrates B. Villegas, D.D., Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan, Pangasinan.
A simple program followed, the highlight of which was the presence of the Honorable Vice President Jejomar C. Binay as Guest of Honor and Speaker. In his keynote message, he commemorated the living legacy of GSP Founder Josefa Llanes Escoda whose “sparks of truth and liberty initiated have grown to become a fire that will go on blazing through generations and generations of girl scouts, and will continue to flourish through the tradition of service that the GSP promotes.” As he congratulated the Girl Scouts of the Philippines, the Vice President vowed to support all its worthwhile programs and projects which are “instrumental in the shaping of outstanding and upright women leaders in the country.”
With the GSP proudly commencing a new decade of selfless dedication and service to the nation, likewise remembered are the remarkable milestones of the Movement of the past seventy-one years which had engraved in Philippine history the individual successes of its notable women leaders and outstanding Girl Scouts.
Through the Girl Scouting Program, girls and young women nationwide are offered opportunities to acquire knowledge and skills; stimulate social awareness; promote love, peace, and goodwill; and uphold the ideals of Girl Scouting. It has been an effective instrument in addressing the role of education in nation-building and community transformation.
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TEN TROOPS RECEIVE 7TH PILAR HIDALGO LIM AWARDS
Ten Troops were conferred the Pilar Hidalgo Lim Troop Achievement Award at Ceremonies held on 26 May 2011 at the Imay Pecson Hall of the GSP National Headquarters.
GSP National President Dr. Salud A. Bagalso, 1st National Vice President and Program Committee Chairman Mrs. Susan R. Locsin, 2nd National Vice President Dr. Cristina Lim Yuson, National Executive Director Mrs. Ma Dolores T. Santiago and Guest of Honor Ms. Ma. Pilar Lim Ayuyao, daughter of Mrs. Pilar Hidalgo Lim, awarded the plaques of recognition and cash prizes to the winners.
GSP National Treasurer Dr. Paz H. Diaz, the guest speaker, emphasized the importance of effective project implementation through careful planning, monitoring and evaluation.
The PHL Troop Achievement Award was conceptualized to encourage Girl Scout troops to become proactive in community development projects. This program enables the girls to develop their leadership skills and ability to work with others. During the conceptualization of the project, the girls learn to scan the environment around their communities to be able to identify the priority needs of their localities.
The awardees are as follows:
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