Story By Rheanna Empuerto, CVPro
Photos By Dexen Krishane Villagracia, CVPro
With the theme “Anchored on Recollect Spirit: One Trail, One Mission,” the Girl Scouts, Senior Scouts, and Rover Scouts of Colegio de Sto. Tomas-Recoletos, Inc. participated in a three-day Backyard Camping and Investiture last October 23 to 25, 2026, at the school campus. The activity aimed to develop the scouts’ leadership, discipline, and survival skills to guide and strengthen their commitment to the values and ideals of scouting.
The camp officially opened on October 23, 2026 during a scouting ceremony held at the CST-R Cultural Hall. Engr. Anacleto Velasco delivered the welcome remarks.
Ms. Vieme Shanetana Nengasca, LPT was the guest speaker. Camp Chief Outfit Advisor Remy A. Oghayon then formally declared the camp open.
Having changed into their Type C uniforms, Thomasian scouts prepared for their respective activities. The officers carried out their assigned tasks, while the aspirant scouts underwent traditional bravery tests, obstacle challenges, and sensory activities to test their courage, alertness, and determination.
On Day 2, October 24, 2026, scouts welcomed the break of dawn with a four a.m. wake-up call. All then gathered to pray the Holy Rosary and attended to warm up the body with Zumba exercise after.
An entire day for the scouts included the Back-to-Basic Activities, which covered first aid, knot tying, navigation, trail signs, campfire preparation, fire-starting techniques and scouting ideals. They also participated in a survival expedition involving bamboo cooking, first aid, and ‘gadgeteering.’ After the submission and presentation of scouting outputs, the scouts gathered for the campfire program and each crew presented performances that highlighted their creativity, teamwork and unity.
On Day 3, October 25, 2026, the camp underwent inspection after the morning routines which also began at four a.m. The scouts then attended the Holy Mass at STV-R Chapel. Clearing of areas and campsite began after the Holy Mass and each Thomasian scout made sure to put into practice the value of caring for the Environment.
The Investiture Ceremony was the highlight of the last day of the camp, when the aspirant scouts were formally welcomed into their respective scouting units.
Guest speaker Mr. Jason James Isada, ES, GAA, TOBS 2019, Outfit Advisor, shared his message with the participants, emphasizing the responsibilities and values associated with becoming a scout. The ceremony marked an important milestone for the aspirants as they prepared to uphold the principles of service, leadership, discipline, and fellowship. Breaking of camp was at exactly 12 noon.
