September 3–6, 2026. Eight Senior Thomasian Scouts under the Negros Occidental Council took part in a four-day Survival Training Course designed for Eagle Scout Aspirants and three-day course for Venturer Scout Aspirants in Soreta, Patag, Silay City, Negros Occidental
The courses focused on survival skills, leadership, teamwork, and environmental responsibility.
Sir Roberto P. Maguad, MPA, Council Scout Executive, and Cornelio C. Capindit, CML, Survival Trainee Leader, conducted and led the training.
The training brought together five Venturer Scout Aspirants namely Charles Derrick M. Seldura 9-SA, Brandon Void C. Ningasca 9-SEM, Reden Kester G. Muñoz 9-SEM, Nick Arthur C. Orizonte 10-SJSA, Thor Josef Handuman 10-SJSA and three Eagle Scout Aspirants namely Prince Bronson L Yap 10-SJSA, Marc Rheynier E. Alegada 10-SJSA, Althine Jacob A. Martinez 10-SJSA from Colegio de Santo Tomas Recoletos, Inc. Under the guidance of Scout Leader Eagle Scout Remy A. Oghayon, LPT, the participants were trained in different techniques that could help them survive and adapt to forest or jungle environments.
Among the activities were shelter building, fire building, cooking, first aid, and identifying edible and non-edible plants and animals. The scouts were encouraged to use careful observation and practical skills.
Protecting the environment was the highlight of the training. Scouts learned ways to care for trees, animals, and other natural resources. These activities reminded the participants that being a scout is not only about survival, but is also about becoming responsible stewards of nature for future generations.
Throughout the course, the scouts experienced challenges that tested their patience, discipline, teamwork, and adaptability. One of their memorable experiences was spending the night in the forest despite the cold weather and surviving with limited food supplies.
The challenges became more meaningful because they were able to meet fellow scouts from different schools and cities and with them build friendships and create lasting memories.
The scouts earned a deeper understanding of the Scout Law, particularly the values of being Thrifty, Friendly, Obedient, Brave and Reverent, while also practicing other important qualities such as trustworthiness, helpfulness, courtesy, kindness, and responsibility.
During the closing ceremony Seldura was elected as the Senior Crew Leader (SCL) of Survival No. 1 Boys for the Venturer Scout Aspirants. This gives him an opportunity to demonstrate leadership and guide his fellow participants.
