CoM-VMY Philippines National Camp 2024
The Association of the Children of Mary Immaculate-Vincentian Marian Youth (CoM-VMY Philippines) gathered all CoMers across the country and other parts of the world through a National Camp held last July 19-21, 2024, at the Colegio de la Inmaculada Concepcion de la Concordia, Paco, Manila City, with the theme, “Rejoicing in Hope, CoMpanions in Faith, CoMmitted to Serve.”
The first day commenced with a Eucharistic Celebration at the Concordia Chapel, presided over by Rev. Fr. Eugene Navida, CM, the Regional Priest Advisor of the National Capital Region. The official kick-off of the program was held at the auditorium through the opening remarks given by Michelle Buenavides, National Executive Board Assistant Secretary, and a getting-to-know activity called “Mary Go Hunting.” A solemn reenactment of the three apparitions of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal was presented in the chapel as part of the celebration of the 194th Anniversary of the First Apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary to Saint Catherine Laboure. After the presentation, all participants gathered in the quadrangle to proceed with the Candle Light Rosary activity despite the heavy rains. The delegates prayed the holy rosary and witnessed the procession of the statue of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, borrowed from the Philippine Miraculous Medal Apostolate.
On the second day, Rev. Fr. Christian Sambajon, CM, Archdiocesan Priest Advisor of Cebu, presided over the solemn mass at the chapel. One of the highlights of this day is the inspirational and testimonial talks featuring invited speakers, including John Vincent Orale, a 6-year-old Marian devotee who shared his love and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, and Joseph Cong Thanh Nguyen, who shared his journey as a former VMY International Secretariat Volunteer.
The most anticipated activity in the camp was the CoMazing Race, which was held in the afternoon. The participants, who were divided into different teams, competed to finish the teambuilding activities while showcasing their collaboration and teamwork. The CoMusikahan Festival was held in the evening, featuring Mr. Romar Chuca, the Catholic Comedian, and a social media missionary. The activity also highlighted cultural exchange activities among CoM-VMY units. The day concluded with an open mic session and presentations showing the various talents of CoMers in singing, dancing, spoken poetry, etc.
The final day of the national camp highlights the International Encounter at the Concordia Auditorium, which began with a welcome message from Erl Julen Tulod, CoM-VMY National President, followed by a presentation of the organizational structure by Jose Alan Tejam, Jr., National Vice President, and a report on the realities and statistics shared by Nerlmalyn Palomo, National Secretary, and Geneveve Sy, National Assistant Treasurer. Sr. Ana Wiwiek, DC, and Patricia Isabel Roppa Godoy, the VMY International President and both from the International Council, also shared a heartfelt message to all the participants. The closing remarks were given by Sr. Martha Gamolo, DC, CoM-VMY National Sister Advisor. The event concluded with a Eucharistic Celebration presided over by the CoM-VMY National Priest Advisor, Rev. Fr. Rolando “Choy” Limjoco, Jr., CM.
The CoM-VMY National Camp, a gathering of all local units and councils across the country, aims to build new friendships, foster camaraderie and teamwork, and strengthen faith and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. This event is filled with fun, learning, and memorable experiences, with the purpose of drawing inspiration from one another while journeying together as one family to Jesus with Mary.
VMY Philippines