The multi-organization book drive will be going to different schools this June to help build libraries of schools in the outskirts of Cordillera.
The Libro Mo, Inspirasyon Ko kicked of last year initiated by S.M.I.L.E. Movement, Inc. The movement believed that the K-12 education system will not work unless quality of education are also improved and building libraries in the schools who have no access to internet for research is one of the best ways to help improve the education environment of the children.
Several organizations and individuals joined the cause and donated books, educational softwares and other educational materials like lego toys and flash cards for preschoolers. Other donors pledged to donate computers. Other individuals donated budget for the transportation and gas.
From the start of the drive, five schools had received donated books: the new Sinipsip National Highschool Annex in Natubleng, Buguias, Benguet; Camilo Lucaben Elementary School in Madayment, Kibungan; Mappit Elementary School in Kiangan, Ifugao; Haliap National Highschool in Asipulo and Ayangan National Highschool in Lagawe.
This June, recipient of donated books will be Sadanga, Mt. Province. There will be follow up drives to the recipients in Ifugao for their requested computers and textbooks. We are also hoping to have more books for other schools in other areas in Cordillera like the far flung Natonin who sent us a request as one of the recipients of donations.
The movement is accepting donations; books, old but still useable computers, educational software, lego blocks and bookshelves. Donations can be dropped at Kikan Bar and Resto (former Ayuyang) at Baden Powell Inn and Kairuz cafe in Km. 6, La Trinidad. The group can be contacted through smilemovementph@gmail.com, phone numbers are 09269722222 and 09199933911.
Ensalidummaay Grand Convention
The support group for the book drive recently concluded their convention titled Ensalidummaay attended by about 8 organizations last April 21. It's a solidarity program of fun and discussions of issues and outreach activities they can accomplish together. It's during these gatherings that programs such as the Libro Mo, Inpirasyon Ko initiated.
The event was sponsored by individuals who supported the causes these groups had been working on. Aliping Family and Rob Ocampo donated budgets for the foods, drinks and rental of the place. Cash donations also came from River Valley Aggregates, One Cordillera group, No Igorot ka group, Tambayan Blues group and Real Sons and Daughters of Ifugao (RSDI).
Salidummay is a common song that every Cordilleran has probably heard. By using it as a title of their quarterly event, the organizers hope that despite the differences in culture, it will help build a better camaraderie amongst the different organizations that can be useful in building a better Baguio and better Cordillera.
