Don Bosco Philippines South Province

By Jigo Baulos of DB-Mati

Young people from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao came together as one—like streams meeting the sea. The Salesian Youth – Philippines gathered for the Salesian Youth Camp on April 15–17, 2026, at Mary Help of Christians School in Pampanga. With the theme “RENEW: Serve and Shine,” the camp was filled with joy, excitement, and a shared desire to grow, connect, and live out a common mission.

As SYM Camp 2026 officially began, the students of Mary Help of Christians School set the tone with a lively song-and-dance performance that instantly energized everyone. The campers were then grouped into four camps: Camp Valdocco, Camp Missio, Camp Gentes, and Camp Lumen. With hearts awakened and spirits alive, Plenary Session 1, “Mirror of the Heart,” led by Mr. Richard Roy Tañada, invited everyone to reflect more deeply. It reminded the campers that what we see in the mirror is only part of who we are—shaped by hidden struggles, questions, and silent prayers—and called them to open themselves to God’s grace, where healing begins and authenticity is formed.

After the session, the campers gathered in their respective camps, where they learned the meaning and inspiration behind their group names. They shared openly, exchanging reflections and insights with one another. In the afternoon, Plenary Session 2, “Called Even in Brokenness,” led by Fr. Vince Michael Sabal, SDB, became a powerful moment of realization. The campers were reminded that brokenness is not a disqualification but an invitation from God to continue the mission. This was followed by team-building activities, where everyone worked together, demonstrating teamwork, communication, and creativity at each station. The day ended with a Holy Mass presided over by Fr. Vince and, later in the evening, a peaceful Taizé prayer that allowed everyone to reflect in silence and prayer.

On the second day, Sr. Tess Mendoza invited the campers to look back at the humble beginnings of the Salesian mission—reminding them that this spirit continues to live on today. This was highlighted in Plenary Session 3, “From Valdocco to the World – 150 Years of Mission.” The reflection became even more meaningful as the campers were sent out to different immersion sites: Bale sa Puso for FIN, the Aeta community for FIL and FIS, and Home for the Girls for MHCS Pampanga. There, they encountered different communities and experienced the mission firsthand.

In the afternoon, the campers returned to their groups to share their experiences and reflections, followed by another Holy Mass. That evening, they had the opportunity to meet the Provincials, who shared their own mission journeys and answered questions about what keeps them going. The day ended with a joyful Barrio Fiesta and Youth Night, where everyone bonded, celebrated, and showcased their talents, representing their respective delegations.

On the final day, the campers once again gathered in their camps to reflect on their immersion experiences. This was followed by Plenary Session 4, “Shine with His Glory,” led by Mr. Eduardo Empelis Jr., reminding them that the mission is not about being seen but about letting God’s light shine through them.

The camp concluded with a Holy Mass that rekindled the light within each participant. Renewed by Christ’s glory, the campers were sent forth as missionary disciples—ready to shine and committed to bringing God’s love to the least, the last, and the lost.