| リポート | Our team had a wonderful time in Bicol! The GV coordinator, Mr. Leo Borras, was an amazing host. He organized our time well, and took care of any needs that we had. Most of the Bicol Habitat volunteers were affiliated with Ateneo de Naga University, either as professors or students. The volunteers welcomed us with open arms and kept us entertained and motivated with singing, dancing, and their sense of humor.
The worksite where we built was a new site, and was unoccupied. Due to some unusual circumstances, we did not build with homepartners, but with volunteers and paid laborers. We regretted that we weren't able to work side by side with homepartners, but we didn't let it dampen our enthusiasm. We were building duplex-style houses on the worksite. Most of our time was spent transporting bricks, water, sand, and rocks. We also helped to prepare the foundation for a new house, finished digging a septic tank pit, and poured cement into the brick walls. I think that we would have enjoyed the chance to lay bricks more, and to make bricks. By the end of our work week, we had finished the second half of one duplex, and started the first half of another.
Our R&R activities were wonderful! We visited and swam in Malabsay Falls, as well as a several hot spring pools. We also went to Atulayan Island and spent the day swimming, laying on the beach, and snorkeling. We also made visits to Ateneo de Naga University, a finished Habitat site, and Queen of Peace orphanage. The orphanage visit was the best part of the trip for most team members. We brought balls, jump ropes, and games for the kids living at the orphanage, and then we spent 2 hours playing with the children. Our accomodations were at Penafrancia Resort in Naga City. We stayed in cottages with 2 to 4 people per room. The resort had a pavilion where we ate most of our meals. They also had fresh water pools and nice grounds. The accomodations were very satisfactory.
More than one of my team members said that this was the best week of their life!! So, I want to sincerely thank all the people in Japan and the Philippines who made our trip a success! |
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