Over 5,000 participants from various councils across the region joined the 2025 Bicol Regional Scouts Jamboree, held at the Albay Provincial Campsite and Evacuational Center in Ligao City from March 5-9, marking a significant milestone as it is considered as the second jamboree held in the Bicol Region.
The first Bicol regional jamboree was held several years ago in San Fernando, Tiwi, Albay. Since then, the region has encountered a series of challenges in developing and preparing its scouting programs, which ultimately led to the successful hosting of the event in Bicol.
Over the years, the Jamboree’s activities extend beyond recreation, offering a platform for youth to cultivate essential skills in leadership, teamwork, and resilience.
Arjhay Alperez, the officer-in-charge council scout executive (CSE), mentioned that the event also focused on disaster preparedness and survival skills, recognizing the region’s vulnerability to natural calamities, particularly typhoons.
“We focus on advancing the development of Boy Scouts, training them to become future leaders of our country, guided by the Scout Oath and Law,” Alperez said.
Ronald Jose Sanglay, a senior scout leader from Ligao City Council, expressed his development as a leader to his group. With over a decade of experience, his journey in scouting has shaped his development, not just as a scout, but as a leader. His experience has allowed him to reflect on how much he has grown and learned along the way.
“The feeling is special because I know that camping is more than just an adventure, it’s a learning experience,” he shared.
For Sanglay, scouting brings him a renewed sense of excitement and curiosity. The anticipation of gaining new insights and skills feeds his passion for his experiences.
His exposure to diverse perspectives and techniques further strengthened his commitment to scouting and its mission of continuous learning.
Sanglay also mentioned that interacting with other scouts broadened his horizons but also strengthened the sense of community. Through these interactions, scouts are reminded of the universal values they share, regardless of where they come from.
Younger scouts like Ejay Nasol Lorilla, a grade 5 scouter, and Michael Lee Rapirap, a grade 6 scouter from the Legazpi City Council, viewed activities and experiences as significant challenges but also enjoyable.
Reflecting on the knowledge they have gained, Rapirap also highlighted how the event not only challenged them but also provided invaluable opportunities for personal growth.
“I learned how to work better with others and how to be more independent,” Rapirap said.
The difficulties encountered throughout the event became a platform for Rapirap’s development, while the strong sense of community among the participants further strengthened their social and emotional growth.
Despite the difficulties and obstacles of the youths, the Jamboree is a transformative experience for every young participant. Through the challenges, the scouts come out more confident, resilient, and prepared for life beyond the campsite. And as scouting continues to thrive in Bicol, it promises to remain an opportunity, growth, and service for generations to come.
Advancements in educational modules provide youth with practical skills, enabling them to tackle real-world challenges effectively.
By providing a platform for young scouts to challenge themselves and develop valuable life skills, the event not only fosters the growth of individuals but also shapes the future leaders of tomorrow.I Nicole Castillo