UGAT FOUNDATION Diary of Activities

Summer Programs....

2007-05-11T23:12:00.000-07:00

UGAT gave a Basic Counseling for the Poor Seminar-Workshop last April 8-14 at the Tahanan ng Mabuting Pastol in Tagaytay City. It was an eclectic group, with care-providers from different ministries (school, community development--- even law enforcement!) in attendance.

April 16-20 found the team back in Mirador Jesuit Villa in Baguio City for the Family Interventions for School and Community Care-Providers.

And then it was the long-waited celebration. It's the 15th Anniversary of the Inter-Core Group Formation Program, the annual get together and continuous education for Basic Counseling graduates from Visayas and Mindanao. This year's theme was "From Family Space to Relational Space: Exploring Spirituality in Family Healing." The event was held at the Via, Veritas et Vita Retreat House in Lanipao, Pantukan Compostela Valley. Our grateful appreciation to the Diocese of Tagum, headed by Bishop Manlapaz, Mrs. Esther Benedicto and the Family and Life Apostolate for their efforts in coordinating this event.

Summer is also an opportunity for extending ministyr with the Jesuit brothers and this year UGAT was forunate to have with us Bro. Bong Tobe, SJ and Bro. Neo Saicon, SJ who assisted in some projects like KAPILAS (support group for wives of seafarers) and a recollection for children of seafarers at the Camella Homes in Lapu-lapu City, Cebu. This project is in coordination with the Apostleship of the Sea-Cebu.

The team also headed to Iligan City to give a two day Basic and Crisis Counseling Seminar for parish careproviders and teachers/guidance counselors of the Catholic schools in the Diocese. The seminar was held at the Crystal Inn last April 30 to May 1.

After which it was back to Manila for a seminar-workshop on "Psychodynamics: Implications to Formation" for local formators. This was organized by SAIDI (Southeast Asia Interdisciplinary Development Institute) and was held in SAIDI Antipolo last May 8-10.

Other summer activities conducted by the team were:

"Advancing Competency Outside the Classroom Seminar-Workshop"
May 16-18, 2007
Sacred Heart School -Jesuits
Cebu City
Staffed by: Fr. Nilo E. Tanalega, SJ, Fr. Jose C. Embile, SJ, Karen Rose Vardeleon, Mrs. Donato Abalo of the University of San Carlos-Cebu and Mrs. Annie Manzano of the University of the Philippines-Cebu City.

"Basic and Addiction Counseling"
May 17-19
Toyota Motors , Santa Rosa Laguna

Psycho-spiritual Integration for Teachers
May 21
Mary Help of Christians, Mabalacat, Pampangga

Basic Counseling Skills for Teachers
May 22
Sta Clara Parochial School, Pasay City

Psycho-spiritual Integration for Teachers
May 23-24
Sta Clara Parochial School, Pasay City

Basic and Family Counseling Seminars in Cebu

2007-03-09T08:20:00.000-08:00

UGAT, with the Family Resource Group of Cebu and the Apostleship of the Sea, conducted a Basic and Crisis Counseling Seminar last February 10-11 at the Stella Maris Seafarer's Center in Cebu.

February 16-17, UGAT gave a Basic Couseling Seminar to the managers of Sunlife Financial-Cebu. This was held at the Archbishop's Palace and the Sunlife Financial Office.

Lastly, February 23-25 found UGAT giving a Basic Family Counseling Skills for Care-providers at the Stella Maris Seafarer's Center in Cebu. The seminar was attended by counselors from the different parishes in Cebu City.

An Anniversary of a Tragedy

2007-03-05T03:16:00.000-08:00

Last February 17, 2006, a landslide wiped out the baranggay of Guinsaugon, Southern Leyte. It undoubtedbly changed the lives of so many people--- not just the survivors but also their careproviders like us. Ministering to them last year had been life-changing for us in UGAT, and it has always been the hope of this organization to come back to Guinsaugon, and follow-up how they have been.

Last February 18-20, an opportunity had been provided, through Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan, to return to Guinsaugon. This was in time with the anniversary of the tragedy. Anniversaries of tragedies can be difficult times for many people. For some it is a powerful reminder of a loss and for others it is a milestone in recovery. Through the grace of God, UGAT had been able to organized a counseling team of 13, mostly Cebuanos, to assist in a follow-up psychosocial mission to Leyte.

The following are some of the highlights of the mission:

1. An Internal Capability Building Seminar on the different seminar-workshops was held February 8-9, 2007, 6pm to 9pm at the Multi-purpose Hall of Stella Maris Seaman’s Center, Pier 4 in Cebu City. Participants were local counselors both from the parish level and the local schools. The meet served to:

a. Orient the new volunteers and update old volunteers on the Guinsaugon situation
b. Extend the invitation to local counselors to assist in the mission
c. Finalize the members of the mission team.
d. Leveling of counseling skills
e. Orientation to the modules to be used in the formation-seminars.

There were 18 participants on the first day (February 8) and 16 participants on the second day (February 9). The group was organized by Ms. Florina Mercader of the Family Resource Group-Cebu.

2. The seminars:

2.1. Seminar-Workshop on Building Survivor Famiies

This Formation-seminar, intended to build the resilience of the family unit after the tragedy, was held at the ABC Hall of St. Bernard’s Municipal Hall February 19, 2007, from 09:00am to 04:00pm. It was attended by 57 survivors.

2.2. Seminar-Workshop on Solo Parenting for Men

This Formation-seminar, intended to build the support system among male survivors after the tragedy, was held at the ABC Hall of St. Bernard’s Municipal Hall February 20, 2007, from 08:00am to 12:00pm. It was attended by 9 male solo parents. There were also 3 female participants.

2.3. Care for Blended Families
This Formation-seminar, intended to build the support system among widows and widowers from the tragedy who have remarried. It was held at the ABC Hall of St. Bernard’s Municipal Hall February 20, 2007, from 01:00pm to 4:00pm. It was attended by 5 participants.

2.4. Peer Counseling Training for Youth Leaders in St. Bernard
Through Plan International, UGAT also gave a Peer Counseling Training for the Youth Leaders in St. Bernard. This seminar-workshop was held at the Cristo Rey High School Old Convent and was attended by 44 participants.

3. Special thanks to the following people who have made this project a reality:
* Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan: Br. Javi Alpasa, SJ, Br. EJ Gerilla, SJ, R.C. Batac, Pao Legaspi and Bernie Aton.
* To our volunteer counselors who gave their time and energy: Lyra Versoza of the Psychology Department of Ateneo de Manila, Warlit Fonatanoza, Raul Fontanoza, Louie Dungog, Romy Lim, Tessie Lim and Josie Simbajon of the Family Resource Group in Cebu, Abigail Laurente and Marwen Castaneda of the University of San Carlos in Cebu and Ms. Annie Manzano of the University of the Philippines in Cebu.
* To Ms. Florina Mercader of the Family Resource Group in her efforts in organizing this team.
* To Mr. and Mrs. Fred and Cristine Veloso, and Mr. Pepe Cinco of Gawad Kalinga for all your assistance in local organizing.
* To Fr. Manny Lagumbay of the Parish Social Action in St. Bernard
* To Mr. Baltz Tribunalo, Jr. and Ms. Jojo Canisguin of Plan International
and *Ms. Celsa Mondalla for her generous loan of her home.

More Family-oriented seminars.

2007-01-17T21:55:00.000-08:00

MISSION TO ALBAY

2006-12-18T02:01:00.000-08:00

This is Mayon Volcano, situated in Legazpi City, Albay. She is hailed as one of the more majestic and picturesque volcanoes in the world, owing to her almost pefect cone.

And this is the havoc that she left after Typhoon Reming.

Typhoon Reming(International Name: Durian) which arrived in the Bicol Region last November 30, created a mudslide of volcanic ash and boulders that killed an estimated of 1,000 people and destroyed an estimated PHP 274 million worth of property. (As of press time, official death toll has risen from 198 to 450, with more bodies still to be dug.)

Last December 7 to 9, UGAT staffers Kay Vardeleon and Carlos Lagaya joined the Simbahang Lingkod Bayan and the Ateneo de Manila Psychology Department in conducting psychological debriefing to the survivors of the Albay mudslide.

The SLB-PsychDept team left for Albay at around 8pm via Isarog Buslines from Cubao. It was a 12 hour drive from Manila to Albay. A team of Ateneo High School students was also present to assist the Relief operations.

At around 10:30am, December 8, the team, headed by Lyra Versoza, conducted a crash course on Critical Incident Stress Debriefing to volunteer debriefers from the Diocese of Legazpi.

After lunch, the group started debriefing in Binitayan Elementary School (evacuation center) and to survivors at the Daraga church.

At December 9, scheduled debriefings of the team had to be cancelled as some evacuation centers had to be re-evacuated in lieu of the upcoming storm. The group decided to help out the group seeking temporary shelter at the Daraga Church and engage them in one on one debriefings when possible.

The SLB-PsychDept team left for Manila at around 2pm.

Lyra, UGAT's Caloy Lagaya and Kay Vardeleon remained and met up later with UGAT volunteers Mark Antony Abenir and Nerisa Dimapilis to join with ABS-CBN Foundation's and Dreams 71's Paul, Emong and Mam Vicky. Nerisa and the Dream 71 staff started debriefing as well that morning. Further plans for debriefings had to be cancelled as well in lieu of teh re-evacuations that are going on. The ABS-CBN team continued with their relief operations, soup kitchens (shall I say lugaw kitchens) and entertaining the survivors.

The team resumed debriefings December 10-11, 2006 and had an opportunity to visit ground zero at Caraga and Sto. Dominggo, as well as converse with the survivors.
The team left for Manila at around 6pm of Monday.

What are we waiting for this Advent?

2006-12-18T01:45:00.000-08:00

Last November 25, 2006, UGAT conducted a Psycho-spiritual Intervention Seminar for Teachers for public schools in Montalban. This is the 5th run of the seminar, a joint project of UGAT and the Montalban local government.

In the spirit of formation, UGAT conducted an Advent Recollection for its volunteers. The Recollection was facilitated by Bro. Jordan Orbe, SJ and held at Valle Verde 4 in Pasig City (one of our long-time sponsor, Ms. Aurora Dee, generously lent her home for this event). Advent is a season of waiting, but do all of us know what we are waiting for? I hope we do, because waiting for Christ and His Kingdom to come is something that is guaranteed to give you joyous anticipation. The advent retreat was followed by a Christmas Party for the volunteers.

Mission To Rome

2006-12-18T01:25:00.000-08:00

Fr. Nilo E. Tanalega, SJ and Jimleth Dulla went to Rome, Italy last November 13- 29, 2006 to give Peer Counseling and Family Ministry Seminars to Filipino communities there. The seminars were organized by the Sentro Pilipino-Chaplaincy of the Diocese of Rome under Fr. Albert M. Guevara, Jr., CS.

The seminars were as follows:

Orientation Seminar for Lay Pastoral Workers on Family Ministry (November 16 and 23)
Training Workshop on Counseling for Religious Workers (November 18 and 25)
Training Workshop on Peer Counseling for Family and Youth Volunteers (November 19 and 26)

The seminars were held at the premises of the Basilica di Santa Pudenziana, Via Urbana 160 in Rome.

PSI for Teachers continued...

2006-11-10T02:58:00.001-08:00

The third and fouth batches of teachers from the municipality if Rodriguez were given the Psycho-spiritual Integration for Teachers last October 27 and 28 , 2006.

Mining for Gold

2006-11-10T02:57:00.000-08:00

Inside every hurting person is the potential for greatness. Few people can actually claim to understand suffering and compassion unless one has traveled that particular path themselves. In this regard we give you MINA--- the unearthing of the jewel underneath the coarse rock among children of the abandoned and the separated.

Last October 29,2006 UGAT gave a MINA seminar to scholars of the St. Joseph Foundation for Children and the Aging. The seminar was facilitated by Carlos T. Lagaya, Kay Vardeleon, Nicolai Dacum and Sherry Ann Magsalin.

God has promised to b father to the fatherless (Psalm 68: 5). David in his faith believed that "Though my father and mother has forsaken me, the Lord will recieve me." Psalm 27:10.

The Need for Counsel

2006-11-10T02:56:00.000-08:00

Jesuit Communications' early morning segment "Kape at Pandasal" in ABS-CBN's Magandang Umaga Pilipinas celebrated its two year annversary October 18, 2006. To celebrate this event, free counseling services for family issues were conducted by UGAT Foundation to the watchers of this show. The counselors who had participated are Fr. Nilo E. Tanalega, SJ, Brother JR Orbera,SJ, Brother Eric Escandor, SJ and Karen Vardeleon.

With UGAT's landlines and cellphones announced to the public, UGAT's phones had been ringing all day. It really was a counseling telethon for the group. The enormous response to this program hits home a very solid reality--- that there are so many hurting families in the country,and they thirst for counsel.

Last Saturday, October 21, UGAT also gave a Peer Counseling Seminar to formators of Thursday's Servants' communities. Details to follow.

September Fun

2006-11-10T02:55:00.000-08:00

Ah, September! Christmas is in the air....the -ber months are in!

Last September 2- 9, 2006, Fr. Nilo Tanalega gave a course on Pastoral Counseling at the John Paul II National Institute for Studies on Marraige and Family in Bacolod.

Braving rain and flood, UGAT appeared in DZMM's Usapang Kapatid with Bro. Nono and Sr. Bubbles last September 9, 2006 to talk about migration.

September 11, it was off to Iloilo for a meeting of Bayaning Pilipino winners from Iloilo. The meeting was held at the Sta. Maria Parish and was attended by Elvira Bernal, Lilia Teves, Tessie Pagay and Joe Eric Indico. The past winners shared their experience after the BPAwards and contributed ideas on how to promote the program in their area. The first leg of BPA promotions followed: in Aklan, Antique, Bacolod and Roxas City.

Last September 15 UGAT conducted an ANAK (Anak ng Nangibang-bansa Aruga at Kaagapay) seminar-workshop for the children of overseas workers from Ateneo de Iloilo (Santa Maria Catholic Church). The next day, it was the parents' turn. UGAT conducted a support-group style program for wives of migrants and seafarers also at Ateneo de Iloilo. Both seminars were graciously organized and sponsored by the Grade School and High School Parent-Teachers Association headed by Mr. Reynaldo Daguman and Dr. Melanie Tendencia respectively.

Afterwards it was off to Angono, Rizal for the Family Interventions for Social Workers seminar-workshop for the Christian Foundation for the Children and the Aging. Pictures sure to follow....

2006-11-10T02:53:00.000-08:00

Last August 11, 2006, UGAT gave a "Psycho-spiritual Integration for Teachers" seminar to day care workers and public/private school teachers in the Montalban, Rizal Province. The seminar was a joint project of UGAT and the Montalban Education and Development Office (MEDO) headed by UGAT's own Konsehala Jemelita Dulla.

The August 11 run is the first batch, and the first in the series of seminars for educators in Montalban. It was held at the PSC Hall and lasted the whole day. The UGAT team was Fr. Nilo E. Tanalega, S.J., Carlos T. Lagaya, Karen Vardeleon, Nerissa Dimapilis and Marco Cyril Convento.

The next day, August 12, UGAT assisted the ABS-CBN Foundation in their project "Lingkod Lebanon." Sponsored by Globe Telecommunications, free calls were given to families of migrant workers in Lebanon. The UGAT team was joined by Brother Tonton Coloma.

Next it was off to Crystal Cave, Baguio City. UGAT facilitated a 5-day Basic Counseling for the Poor seminar to the staff members of Child Fund-Japan. Staff members from all over the country gathered at the Assumption Sabbath Place for lecturettes, personal processing and socialization. The UGAT team was Fr. Nilo E. Tanalega,SJ, Carlos T. Lagaya and Karen Rose V. Vardeleon.

Feedback of the seminar includes:

"malaking bagay sa para sa aking personality bilang isang manggagawa."
"masaya, magaan sa dibdib. mas nauunawaan ko kung pano palabasin ang damdamin ng isang tao"
"napag-isip....nagkaroon ng mga realisasyon sa buhay"
"unti-unting naliwanagan ang mali kong konsepto sa counseling"
"The session inspired me to go on...."

Batch 2 of the Psychospiritual Integration for Teachers Seminar were from the Kasiglahan Village Elementary School of the District of Rodriguez, Rizal. The seminar was held at the School Quadrangle of KVES last August 26, 2006. District Supervisor Mrs. Lucila V. Mendoza opened the event.

Last August 28- September 1, UGAT conducted a Family Interventions for Social and Pastoral Workers at the San Pablo Theological House in Tagaytay City. Though it was a small group--- 2 priests, 4 sisters and 2 social workers--- Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao were well represented!

PUGAD

2006-11-10T02:52:00.000-08:00

Last August 5, 2006, The PUGAD group (Pampamilyang Ugnayan at Gabay sa mga Angkan ng Diyos), Inc. held a Reunion at Room 1 of the Institute of Social Order, Ateneo de Manila from 1pm to 8pm. PUGAD is a non-stock, non-profit, non-government organization composed of volunteer formators of various family enrichmnet programs affiliated with UGAT Foundation, Inc.

Present were: Raphael Ocoma, Irene Crisol, Irma Persela, Baby & Jess Nartates, Baby & Pete Buhion, Benny Serrano, Sr. Marissa Valencia, Jimleth Dulla and Marie Flores.

Peer Counseling Seminar

2006-11-10T02:51:00.000-08:00

Last July 22, 2006, UGAT conducted a Peer Counseling Seminar for the out of school youth of Payatas, Batasan and BF, Quezon City. The seminar was organized by the Thursday's Servants group and was help at the Institute of Social Order inside Ateneo de Manila. The UGAT team was Caloy Lagaya, Kay Vardeleon and Marco Cyril Convento.

A Nation of Heroes

2006-11-10T02:49:00.002-08:00

Last July 14, 2006 was the National Awarding Ceremony for the 2006 Gawad Geny Lopez Bayaning Pilipino Awards,an annual search for exemplary individuals, families and organizations who have, despite limitations, lived for the care of others. The Awarding was held at ABS-CBN Studio 4. Fr. Nilo E. Tanalega, S.J. of UGAT is Bayaning Pilipino's Project Director.

The national winners are Soledad Donato Katy (Individual Category, shown above), Aisah Minukon and Allan Sarte (Youth Category), Juanita Arguel (Teacher Category) and the Doroteo Family (Family Category).

For more information, log on www.bayaningpilipinoawards.tk

First Half of the Summer

2006-11-10T02:49:00.001-08:00

April 17 to 21 found the UGAT Team back in Mirador Jesuit Villa Baguio City for another batch of the Family Interventions for School Guidance Counselors and Class Moderators Seminar-Workshop. The group is significantly less in number this year but nevertheless still delivered in all areas: fun, diversity and learning from one another! PROOF: Socials lasted for six hours---that's a record.

After that the team went to Tagudin, Ilocos Sur to give a one-day Basic Counseling Skills seminar for the couple leaders of the church. Joining the team are the Jesuit brothers J.R. and Joel Liwanag. The group was recieved by Fr. Albert Rabe and ICM Sister Pining.

Then its off to Abra. Supposedly, the team was there to give a seminar to children and spouses of overseas workers. But the summer scheduleplus the difficulty of transportation in the "dead-end" (but nevertheless not wanting in hidden delights) province of Abra made attending the seminar rather difficult.

But if participants can't come to the seminar, then the seminar will go to the participants. Under the guidance of the powerhouse Sr. Tata, the group went to the Abra Community Communications Center and recorded a 6-day 30 minute each discussion on OFW topics for DWPA. The six topics were : Dapat bang Mangibang-bansa?, Pagmamahal ba ang Pag-alis?, Sino ang mas nahihirapan, ang umalis o ang naiwan?, Hanggang Saan, Hanggang Kailan?, Epektibong Panunumbalik at Isang Paglalagom. The show was hosted by Communications major Joel Liwanag, S.J. Many thanks to Rina, our anak ng OFW guest and "Marissa."

TRIVIA:
* The group in Baguio was served "pinikpikan", the cruelly murdered, "arsonized" chicken that the natives of the Cordilleras take as a symbol of welcome.
*We also ate a cleverly disguised asuzena in Tagudin.
*We gorged ourselves in mangoes.
*We learned about organic farming in Galacia Farms, Abra (namely raising drunk Israelite poultry and rehabilitating chemically addicted land)
*We swam in the irrigation catch basin!

*and all these with enough time to touch -base with Bayaning Pilipino Awardees in Abra.

May 1 to 6 meant its off to the Capucchin Renewal Center in Tagaytay for the six day "Basic Counseling for the Poor Seminar." It was also a smaller group, 11 people, but as with most groups the strength is not in the number but in its diversity (as well as its willingness to cross-dress).

Another Family Interventions Seminar for Schools was given last May 10-12 at the St. Mary's Academy of Meycauyan Bulacan. The team was joined by Mary Ann Rafols of FIS- Baguio.

In solidarity with the Disaster Survivors

2006-11-10T02:47:00.002-08:00

Last February 27 to March 2, UGAT volunteers went to Saint Bernard Leyte to administer psycho-spiritual assistance to survivors of the Southern Leyte landslide. The team, composed of Carlos T. Lagaya, Mary Ann Patacsil, Lyra Versoza and Nerisa Dimapilis were sponsored by Mirant Philippines Foundation, Inc.

Afterwhich, a second UGAT team went to Saint Bernard for another round of counseling and debriefing. The team of 8, composed of four Manila-based and 4- Cebu-based counselors, talked to the survivors of Guinsaugon evacuated at the Cristo Rey School.

It was a truly heart-wrenching , life-changing experience.

Guinsaugon & the First Companions

It was all over in barely three (3) minutes. The mountain came down on them. A conference at the barrio auditorium filled with women celebrating Women’s week did not make it. Kids on their morning break from elementary school did not make it. A school bus with high school students visiting for an activity in Barangay Guinsaugon of St. Bernard town in Southern Leyte, Philippines, tried to turn around at the sound of the boulders rushing down the coconut planted mountain slope, did not make it. Estimates run into 1,500 people buried under the landslide caused by continuous rains due to La Nina loosening the soil foundations of boulders which were unknown to the residents resting in those mountainous ridges. At least that is one of the more plausible theories. Others opine that a “buhawi” or whirlwind came about and brought the mountain boulders and soil down. Surviving witnesses speak of the boulders bigger than their houses (many of which were still made of nipa and bamboo) rushing down. That must have been quite a rush as police guarding the site (from looters) pointed out at the house of an American resident which was pushed a quarter of a kilometer from its original site. Two lucky male survivors were able to climb two separate coconut trees, but these trees were likewise pushed scores of meters from their roots. It looks and sounds like a tragic-comedy but those trees were observed like trees running away from the havoc.

Mirant Corporatrion, a U.S.-based power corporation but with projects in the country, immediately organized a composite team to rescuers to attend to the disaster Fortunately, we at UGAT Foundation were one of those chosen to provide the psycho-social intervention for the survivors. We sent a team of four. Since then, we have sent a follow-up team of 7, 6 of whom are Cebuano-speaking. These volunteers responding to our call, mostly by text (SMS), is a miracle by itself. Some of them had to leave work even upon the objection of insensitive employers and institutions. But I understand the miracle now. For most of our volunteers, they attended our spiritual recollection on “The First Companions: The Vision of St. Ignatius, the Passion of St. Francis Xavier and the quiet Caring of Peter Faber.” At the end of the recollection we all prayed together the prayer of Generosity of St. Ignatius. That they have responded is still a miracle, but a miracle I indeed understand.

I mentioned to our volunteers: “this experience will change you totally. You will come out of this experience a different person.” This was a prediction borne of our experiences of doing disaster counseling from the Ormoc floods, Mt. Pinatubo volcano eruption, Cabanatuan earthquake and the Infanta floods, too. That moving experience changing personal lives became reality soon enough, as we have confirmed as we shared in our own de-briefing. The overwhelming pain of losing practically all of one’s family as 68 kids were totally orphaned in the evacuation center we served. Adults, too, lost their own parents (the lolo’s and lola’s).

While there are a number of miracle stories, from the 85-yr. old lola who got buried but prayed and prayed tapping the table which covered her. Eventually rescuers heard and pulled her out to safety. To the charismatic farmer who was working the fields and as the coconut tree was felled down by the rushing landslide, it fell but between his legs, he walking out of it without a scratch. The amount of pain, recurring bad dreams and early awakening indicating depression still lurked above the evacuation site till the time we were counseling them. A few questioned God’s goodness and mercy. Many confusedly and continuously asked themselves: “Ngano man ako ug nabilin apan ang tibuok kong pamilya nahurutan?” (Why was I spared, when I had lost all my family?) On top of all these, the anxieties surface of the present- what of the relocation? Will the government help me out of my lost meager piggery with only 2 boars? And, the ever remaining question: what if they or some of them are still alive? Some persist on visiting the mud-covered area of some 150 to 200 hectares hoping some signs of life can still be found.

My last picture of the tragedy is a 12 year old boy caring for and holding tight to his nephew. He became edgy as we asked questions and interviewed him. He lost both parents and all his 4 siblings. He was saved because he was peddling fish to add to the family income in another village. Eventually, he begged to be excused. He did not want yet, or not ready to face the gruesome reality of his total lost. I don’t blame him, he has nothing left. “I thought this is the only family left for me- my 6-yr old nephew … give me space to hold on tight at least to what is barely left for me, and for all those whom I lost? …. Let me grow up first!”

--- Nilo E. Tanalega SJ

March is here...

2006-11-10T02:47:00.001-08:00

The UGAT team went to Cabanatuan to conduct a Basic Counseling for Teachers seminar to the different Cabanatuan Catholic Schools last March 4, 2006. The event was organized by the Cabanatuan Forum on Catholic Education and was held at the Bishop Tumbocan Auditorium of the Maria Assumpta Seminary.

The next Saturday, March 21, 2006, its the Parent-Child Encounter at the Jesus Good Shepherd School in Imus, Cavite. The seminar is for JGSS' high school graduating class and their parents.

Macau-Hong Kong

2006-11-10T02:46:00.000-08:00

Last February 18, 2006, UGAT conducted the 2nd International Core Group Formation and Fellowship Workshop. Entitled "Counseling Revision for OFWs", the seminar aims to refresh helpers---Guidance Counselors, NGO staffers and Family and Life Apostolate workers---so that they may execute their task with greater direction and passion, using Ignatian spirituality as guide. The seminar was held at the San Francisco Xavier Retreat Center in Coloane , Macau.

After that, a series of seminars were conducted in the Catholic Center and the Mariner's Club. The topic presented was about the Social Costs and Opportunities in Migration. The seminar were conducted February 22, 23, 24 and 26. The seminars were for the members of the Loved Flock Catholic Ministries in Hong Kong.

February 25, 2006 found the UGAT staff conducting a stress management seminar to the students of Bayaning Pilipino Awardee Angel Ramos' Philippine Women's University in Hong Kong.

Also in February 25 (while the UGAT team was uncertain whether there is a coup d' etat in the country), UGAT gave a short talk to the residents of the RGS shelters in Wah Fuh and Ap Lei Chau in Hong Kong.

And since its the 14th anniversity of the Foundation and the 60th birthday of its beloved founder, Nilo E. Tanalega, SJ---a little celebration is in order. I think Disneyland, ice cream and a cake did the trick.

Valentine Week

2006-11-10T02:45:00.000-08:00

Last February 10, The Guidance and Personnel Circle in coordination with the Office of Student Affairs of UPV Cebu College organized a seminar-forum on "Assessing Conduct Disorders and Related Interventions". The seminar-forum was attended by more than 80 guidance counselors and was conducted in the Conference Hall of the PV Cebu College in Cebu City.

February 10 to 12 found the UGAT staff at Citadel Inn, Makati to give a Basic Counseling training to the members of the Worldwide Marriage Encounter movement. The seminar for the predominantly Cebuano group was organized by Marnie and Teri Malicse.

Love for family is the theme of the Valentine workshop "Myself with my Family" held for the freshman Biology students of the University of Santo Tomas. The workshop was in line with the 2006 Science Week celebration with the theme "Creating Wellness through Science"

To help address the need for psychospiritual support in the public schools of Mandaluyong, MADAC, or the Mandaluyong Anti-Drug Abuse Council, organized a Basic Counseling Skills training for public school teachers and guidance counselors. The seminar was held at Rizal Technological University last February 23, 24 (and because of the state of emergency) and March 10, 2006.

A Tribute to Filipino Heroes

2006-11-10T02:44:00.000-08:00

The Luzon and the Visayas Regional Awarding for the Gawad Geny Lopez Jr. Bayaning Pilipino Awards were conducted last February 3 and 11 respectively. This is a yearly tribute to individuals and organizations that have exemplified selfless service and fine Filipino Values. The event started with a eucharistic celebration, followed by the recognition ceremony hosted by Henry Omaga-Diaz and Bernadette Sembrano. It was attended by Geny Lopez's daughter and ABS-CBN Foundation Head Gina Lopez.

New Year!!!

2006-11-10T02:43:00.000-08:00

2006 is up and about and UGAT is already on its 14th year of giving psycho-spiritual services for Filipino families.

Last January 19, 2006, UGAT gave a seminar on the Social Costs and Opportunities in Migration to the representatives of Methodist churches. This is in line with a inter-religious approach to ministry.

A recollection for the church officers of the Holy Name of Jesus Parish, of the Resettlement area of San Pedro Laguna, was held in the Dela Costa Retreat House in Trece Martires, Cavite last November 28, 2006. Present were Fr. Nilo E. Tanalega, SJ, Carlos T. Lagaya, Karen Vardeleon, Nerisa Dimapilis and Kriszia E. Vengua.

Last weeks of the year!!!

2006-11-10T02:42:00.000-08:00

Part 2 of the Basic Counseling for the Poor Seminar for the representatives of Manila-based parishes was conducted last November 11 to 12. The seminar was sponsored by Caritas Manila and was held in the Caritas Multi-purpose Hall in Pandacan, Manila. The seminar was facilitated by Carlos Lagaya, Papo Ong-Ante, Karen Vardeleon, Mae Dael and Bibay Francisco.

November 11 also found Fr. Nilo E. Tanalega conducting a seminar on Midlife Crisis in Cebu City with Bro. Jing Porcia, SJ and Mary Ann Patacsil.

A Growing Up with Parents seminar was conducted last December 3 to the parents of the Grade 3 students of Jesus Good Shepherd School in Imus Cavite. The seminar was also in anticipation of the student's first communion. Facilitated by Fr. Nilo E. Tanalega, SJ, Willie Turbanos, Karen Vardeleon and Carlos E. Lagaya.

Psycho-spiritual Integration for Teachers

2006-11-10T02:41:00.001-08:00

After the five day workshop in Canossa, it was off to the Dominican House of Prayer to meet the first of three batches of grade school/high school faculty members of the Jesus Good Shepherd School of Imus, Cavite. UGAT facilitated a Psycho-Spiritual Integration for Teachers seminar. The seminar was from October 28-30, 2005.

Advanced Counseling for the Poor

2006-11-10T02:40:00.001-08:00

The Advanced Counseling for the Poor Seminar-Workshop pushed through last October 24-28, 2005 at the Canossa House of Spiritiuality, Tagaytay City. The old gang from the Basic Counseling Seminar last summer is back!...with some additions coming from as far as Davao City. Discussed were Gestalt Therapy, Dreamworks, Genogram Processing and the Intentional Relationship Method.

Among the comments about the seminar are:
"maaring ilagay sa konteksto ng Pinoy culture ang mga strategies na natutunan...."
"masaya, malaya, may lalim...."
"mapagpalayang proseso ng paghilom..."

Oh, and that drawing above is Sister Gloria Alonzo's interpretation of what the seminar is about. Broken healer's making themselves whole before they can reach out. Deep, huh?

Mission to Migrants in Malaysia and Singapore

2006-11-10T02:39:00.000-08:00

Taking adavantage of Singapore's budget airline Tiger, UGAT was able to go to Malaysia and Singapore to give seminars to Filipinos there. The UGAT Itinerary was as follows:

September 25, 2005

The mission started in Johore , Malaysia (after the UGAT Staff made an interesting walk across the border, along Causeway, i might add). Entitled "Ang Nangibang-bansa at ang Kanyang Pamilya" , the seminar discussed the psycho-emotional characteristics of the Filipino Migrant and how to take care the remaining family to members of the charismatic group EL SHADDAI , Masai Chapter. The seminar was held in the St. James Hall, Sacred Heart Cathedral, Jalan Kris, Johor, Malaysia.

September 27-28, 2005
After which , its a 5 hour bus ride to the busy city capital , Kuala Lumpur. To an audience of 38 participants comprising of Philippine Embassy KL-POLO and ATN staff, Filipino Community Leaders and Filipino personnel of Malaysian employment agencies, UGAT gave a 2 day Counseling for Migrants seminar. The event was spearheaded by Charge d Affaires Luis T. Cruz who had opened the event, Labour Attache Josephus Jimenez and coordinated by OWWA Welfare Officer Raquel Llagas Kunting and Administrative Assistant Redina Manlapaz. Upon request of the embassy, the topic of infidelity was also discussed as well as some guidelines in employer-employee mediation.
Special thanks to Ms. Lissy Ann Puno for her gracious assiatnce. The event was held at the Filipino Resource Center in Lorong Damai.

October 1, 2005
Off the the Philippine Embassy in Singapore for a one day seminar on Basic Counseling Skills for the staff members of the RP Embassy. Special emphasis on suicide and depression and relationship counseling was made. Ambassador Belen Anota and Consul Honey Isleta opened the event.

October 2, 2005
"For good" is the slang term of the Filipino migrant for reintegration to Philippine society after many years of being abroad. To an audience of 23 participants, UGAT conducted a seminar entitled "Counseling for Effective and Progressive Reintegration of Filipino Expatriates". The seminar tackled the most immediate social structure one can be reintegrated to--the family and was held at the Bayanihan Center in Pasir Panjang.

The seminar was sponsored by organisations like the Filipino Overseas Workers of Singapore or FOWS (headed by GAWAD GENY LOPEZ Bayaning Pilipino Awardee Encar Montales), FILIPINO ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE or FAS headed by Ronnie Albeus (another Bayaning Pilipino Awardee)and the Philippine Embassy. Ambassador Belen Anota opened the event.

October 4, 2005
The Archdiocesan Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People (ACMI), with coordinator for the Filipino Migrant Group Rose Basa , sponsored 3 1/2 hour seminar on Hospital Counseling for the orientation of migrant care providers who wants to start a mision for the sick and the terminally ill migrants. The event was held in the Christian Welfare Center in Waterloo.

Zamboanga Seminars

2006-11-10T02:38:00.000-08:00

Who said UGAT is limited to Manila?

September 15, 2005 in the Southern Command halls, UGAT gave a seminar to officers of the army regarding Critical Incident Stress Debriefing. The seminar is part of the soldiers' skills training in assisting victims of bombing in the South. The program was headed by Vice Mayor Beng Climaco.

The Ugat team then went to Ateneo de Zamboanga to give a seminar to the gradeschool teachers entitled "Accessing Links through Family Interventions." last September 16, 2005. The seminar is designed to assist teachers gain a systemic view when addressing misbehavior or acting-in in school.

September 17, 2005, it was the parent's turn; UGAT gave a seminar to the parents of the ADZU grade school students entitled "Advancing Parenting Effectiveness"

Part of the Parenting Seminar was also echoed to the parents of the Hansel & Gretel Early Childhood Education Center (MI School) the next day. The seminar was sponsored by the school's Director/Principal Anicia A. Alvarez.

Basic Counseling for the Poor

2006-11-10T02:37:00.000-08:00

Training other careproviders is what UGAT does best! Last September 8, 9 and 10, UGAT Foundation gave the first half of a six day-Basic Counseling for the Poor Seminar to selected lay counselors of the different parishes in Manila. Sponsored by Caritas Manila, the seminar offers both inputs and counseling workshops.

Peer Counseling

2006-11-10T02:36:00.002-08:00

With the University of Santo Tomas -Office of Community Development staff (and UGAT Basic Counseling for the Poor Graduates Mark Abenir and Sheryl Rose Andres, UGAT facilitated a Peer Counseling Seminar for the youth of Tondo, Manila last September 2-3, 2005.

2006-11-10T02:36:00.001-08:00

In line with UGAT's service for migrant families, Fr. Nilo Tanalega, SJ went to Bacolod (Aug 20, 2005), Dumaguete (August 21-22, 2005) and Cebu (August 23-24, 2005) to conduct Family Ministry seminars. Last August 31, UGAT also gave a seminar to different respresentatives of Methodist dioceses in the country wanting to start a migrant ministry.

Basic Counseling Seminar

2006-11-10T02:35:00.000-08:00

UGAT conducted a seminar on Counseling for the Poor and Basic Family Relations to the seminarians of the San Pablo Formation House.

Minang Minamahal

2006-11-10T02:34:00.000-08:00

With the St . Joseph Foundation for Children and the Aging, UGAT gave a formation seminar for children of the separated and the abandoned. This was held last August 13, 2005.

Family Intervention Seminar for Social Development Workers

2006-11-10T02:33:00.000-08:00

Social Development Workers are often faced with issues that have their origin, or at least are maintained by dysfunctionlaity in the family. It is best to equip them with skills and know-how on family dynamics and family interventions.

Last May 11-15, 2005, UGAT Foundation conducted a 5-day seminar workshop for the social development workers, based in different parts of the country, of the Christian Child Welfare Association (CCWA). Among the topics discussed were Basic Family Systems and Systems Approach, Alcoholism/Chemical Dependency and Codependency in the Family, Power and Domestic Violence, Support Systems and Migration as well as Intergenerational Transmissions of Traits and Misbehavior.

he seminar involves a processing of the self in relation to one's family. At the end of the five day workshop, selected individuals were invited to share themselves and their insights during homily of the closing eucharistic celebration. One of our seminar participants, Ms. Rebecca Bumahit shared this song she wrote for her mother which we hope would inspire you as well. God Bless.

My Mama’s Prayer

-Rebecca Nenelee W. Bumahit

I’m walking down this dim-lighted lane

To reach this place like I did before

The guide in me keeps leading me away

(Though) I’m weak and weary and alone in the rain

My mama’s prayer drops me back on my knees

She said “I’m here my baby, please listen to me

You walk by His side and He’ll be your guide

His words are true, just trust and abide

He came for us because He loves you and me.”

I woke up scared to the beat of my heart

The best (things) I got are now fading in the dark

I’m torn up in sadness and falling apart

I cried to my Lord and He answered my prayer

He cleanse all my hurts and now I’m feeling alright

He said “I’m here my child , don’t give up your life

Just hold on my hand and I’ll be your guide

My words are true just trust and abide

I came for you because I truly love you”

Got to my feet and took the narrow path

From somewhere I got a familiar touch

From someone I know who loves me so much

I lifted my head and glanced at my side

And there my Saviour walking steadfast beside

He said “I’m here child, you listen to me

You walk far and wide with that faith in your heart

My words are true, just trust and abide

I’m there for you because you love me too.”

Also from a participant is this lovely poem:

Life is not a problem to solve
But anchance to take and revolve
Through dynamics and relationships of familes involved
Not of power struggles, oppressive structures and abuse
But of love and respect for autonomy and identity
Of every sprout of life that is in it.

As every person is shaped by his past and family
Differentiation is very important to let oneself experience
Freedom and Liberation from the oppressive and unfavorable
Patterns of behavior that had been transmitted to him/her
"What you have is what you can give"

More poetry from FISDW seminar

2006-11-10T02:11:00.000-08:00

Also from a participant is this lovely poem:

Life is not a problem to solve
But a chance to take and revolve
Through dynamics and relationships of familes involved
Not of power struggles, oppressive structures and abuse
But of love and respect for autonomy and identity
Of every sprout of life that is in it.

As every person is shaped by his past and family
Differentiation is very important to let oneself experience
Freedom and Liberation from the oppressive and unfavorable
Patterns of behavior that had been transmitted to him/her
"What you have is what you can give"

Mayroong Bagong Pag-asa

2006-11-10T02:10:00.001-08:00

Last July 16, 2005 in Maryknoll Baguio, UGAT Foundation conducted a forum entitled "Bagong Pag-asa para sa Bansa: Isang Bahaginan ng mga Nagmamalasakit sa Bayan" The forum was attended by some 28 participants, representing different sectors of society.

The Forum was envisioned with the country's crisis in leadership in mind. Through a consultative discussion, it is hoped that the foundation can raise both consciousness on the country's situation , but more importantly, spread the message that there is still HOPE despite the crisis.

To concretize this hope, the organizers invited Gawad Geny Lopez Jr's Bayaning Pilipino awardees from Baguio to share their inspiring stories of how they have successfully served in their local despite the many challenges that discourages many of our country's potential "heroes."

For this Baguio seminars, sharers include: Aurelia Lopena and Sr. Beth Mamangko of MOFAMCO. Also present were Narciso Garcia and Gerry Gamez of the Samahang Bayaning Pilipino.

This forum is a reecho of similar endeavors conducted in Quezon City, Dumaguete City and Iligan City.

Counseling for the Poor Seminar

2006-11-10T02:08:00.000-08:00

In fulfillment of its vision of multiplicity, UGAT Foundation conducted its 5-day seminar-workshop on counseling the poor last April 17-23, 2005 . Entitled SASAMA (Sanggunian sa Maralita), the seminar discusses basic helping skills finetuned specifically for the needs of Filipinos in the grassroots . This is an annual offering and for 2005, it was held at the Capucchin Renewal Center in Tagaytay.

InterCore Group Formation Program

2006-11-10T02:06:00.000-08:00

Yearly, UGAT holds a seminar - workshop designed to update its pool of volunteers and course graduates of the latest in Counseling and Therapy. For this year, the seminar was conducted in the School of Fisheries, Olingan Dipolog City last April 14-17. This year's theme is Dealing with Young Children: Counseling and Parenting in Later Years. Ms. Liza Dey of InTouch Foundation was guest speaker.