THE THIRD day was a busy day. We woke up early to get things done smoothly. By eight o’clock, the kids and their parents will already be at the school grounds.

The tasks were divided among us. Some were assigned at the kitchen. Others took charge of the program. I accompanied Sir Leo, Sir Jef, and Sir Boy when they prepared the stage. They used banigs for backdrop, which, I learned were woven by the B’laans themselves. The banigs were the same as the ones I mentioned in my Youngblood article. Sir Boy added grasses and native flowers.

A few minutes past eight, the program kicked off. Pastor Dionesio Cabca of the Kristohanon church led the Bible Service.

Kagawad Mateo Salway of Brgy. Pag-asa, who was also the chairman of the education committee gave his words of welcome. He also encouraged the students to study well and the parents to support the education of their children. He also said that education is everybody’s right, that B’laans, too can be teachers, doctors, or policemen if they will work hard for it.

I remember how he proudly told the crowd about Fred Basino who is now the Provincial Administrator of the Province of Sarangani. Kgd. Salway said in their dialect that “Mr. Basino is the right hand of our governor and he is a B’laan.” Tears from my eyes fell after hearing his words.

What I really liked about his speech was the part when he said that they should not only depend on what the government can do for them. They should work hard to improve their living condition.

After the program, Sir Robert, Sir Rimar, and Sir Nilo led the games for the kids and for the parents and the winners, of course, were given prizes.

We distributed the gifts after the fun games. They were all excited to receive the packages. Many of them eagerly opened the gifts as they receive it.

Ma?am Judith led the Medical Outreach activity. She was assisted by Sir Dading and Sir Jef.

We left Kiangkos after our lunch. Not only were our stomachs filled but our spirits as well. I could not imagine the happiness I felt seeing how happy they were with the gifts. I know it should not end with the giving of gifts. The people of Kiangkos need more than that. What we did was only the beginning.

If the climb to Kiangkos was difficult, the journey home was just as challenging.