Bags of Blessing, Games of Joy: A Sunday to Remember
For the 169 students of Addition Hills Integrated School, the past few weeks have been defined by loss. But this past Sunday, February 1, was defined by abundance—not just of goods, but of joy.
Under the banner of “Oplan RISE”, the gloom of the recent fire was temporarily lifted. The school grounds, usually quiet on weekends, buzzed with energy as the Hulo Frontier staff turned the venue into a playground.
The recreational games were the heart of the morning. Children who had lost their homes were seen cheering, running, and laughing as they participated in relay races and team challenges. For an hour, the tragedy of Block 36 was forgotten, replaced by the simple thrill of play.
But the support didn’t stop at smiles. As the games concluded, the tangible aid arrived. Tables were piled high with relief goods—”groceries” for the soul and body. Students lined up to receive heavy bags containing hygiene kits, fluffy blankets, and towels.
“It’s a big help for us,” one student shared, clutching a new blanket.
The day ended with full stomachs from the feeding program and full hearts from the games. It was a reminder that while fire can take possessions, it cannot take away the community’s ability to give and to rejoice together.
– Ma. Elizabeth T. Mateo