CoM-VMY Philippines National Camp 2026
The Association of the Children of Mary Immaculate–Vincentian Marian Youth (CoM-VMY Philippines) brought together CoMers from different parts of the country for the National Camp 2026, held on May 22–24, 2026, at Camp Goducate in San Miguel, Iloilo, with the theme “Peace Begins with a Yes.”
The first day of the camp commenced with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Rev. Fr. Arnel Pelonia, CM, together with Rev. Fr. Rolando “Choy” Limjoco, CM, National Priest Advisor of the CoM-VMY Philippines, Rev. Fr. Cirino Potrido, CM, and Rev. Fr. Efren Suralta, CM. After the Holy Mass, the opening program officially began with the entrance of delegates followed by getting-to-know activities, and banner making per group. During the program, Josh Emanuel Tamon, a CoMer and student of Iloilo Science and Technology University, was formally recognized and awarded as the winner of the logo-making contest organized by CoM-VMY Philippines. The CoMers also had a Living Rosary, where they solemnly processed to the swamp area and offer candles while praying the Holy Rosary. Among the highlights on the first day of the national camp is the “CoMerkado”, combining the words “CoMer” and “Mercado” (marketplace). The activity provided participants with an opportunity to showcase their talents, promote local products and delicacies, and share the richness of their culture and traditions.
The second day of the CoM-VMY National Camp 2026 began with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Rev. Fr. Efren Suralta, CM, together with Rev. Fr. Rolando “Choy” Limjoco, CM. Following the holy mass, the CoMers gathered for the Marian session entitled “Mary, Model of Peace and Mission,” led by Sr. Martha Gamolo, DC, National Sister Advisor of the CoM-VMY Philippines. The morning session was followed by a testimony from Ms. Keitch Dean Santiniaman, President of the CoM-VMY Archdiocese of Cebu, who shared her reflections on the theme “My Personal YES: Commitment to Serve.” Her inspiring witness invited the participants to reflect and write their personal commitments, prayers, and realizations through the Commitment Wall.
In the afternoon, the delegates gathered for the “Hinampang,” which brought energy, fun, and excitement to the camp as participants took part in various recreational and team-building activities. This activity became an avenue for strengthening and fostering camaraderie and sportsmanship among the delegates. The delegates later gathered for the recitation of the Holy Rosary.
The second day of the camp concluded with the “Pasundayag” (Mary’s Melody: A Night of Marian Cantata), which became more than an evening of performances. Inspired by their love for the Blessed Mother Mary, the CoMers showcased their talents through songs and creative presentations.
The final day of the national camp featured the Echo Sessions on the Vincentian Marian Youth Asia-Pacific Encounter. Ms. Nerlmalyn Palomo-Gilhang, Secretary of the CoM-VMY Philippines, facilitated the activity while Ms. Marie Claire Balo, National Lay Advisor, shared the objectives of the encounter. The delegates who attended the gathering then shared their experiences, learnings, and personal reflections. To conclude the session, the National Executive Board presented updates on the upcoming VMY General Assembly that will be held in Spain and the Vincentian Youth Day that will be celebrated next year.
The CoM-VMY Philippines National President, Engr. Erl Julen Tulod expressed his heartfelt gratitude during the last day of the camp. He encouraged everyone to take the knowledge and experiences gained at the camp back to their individual units and communities and to inspire their fellow CoMers so that they become a beacon of hope and love in service and mission. The national camp concluded with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Rev. Fr. Rolando “Choy” Limjoco, Jr., CM, together with Rev. Msgr. Claudio Sale and Rev. Fr. Efren Suralta, CM, as concelebrants.
More than a national gathering, the CoM-VMY National Camp 2026 became a celebration of faith, hope, and a mission that brought together CoMers from across the country as one family. Inspired by the theme, “Peace Begins with a Yes,” the CoMers shared days filled with prayer, formation, fellowship, and joyful encounters. As they go forth, may the CoMers continue to say “yes” with courage and generosity, becoming instruments of peace and bearers of Christ’s love and the Blessed Virgin Mary’s virtues wherever they are sent.
VMY Philippines
