Albay: Around 100 elementary students in Albay province on Wednesday honored both traditional and modern-day heroes during the ‘Buhay na Bayani’ Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) celebration organized by the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Daraga. In an interview during the event at SM City here, JCI Daraga president Jonel Magdaraog said the activity aimed to strengthen the patriotism among learners, and enhance their understanding of national and modern-day heroes.
According to Philippines News Agency, Magdaraog emphasized the importance of recognizing both past and present heroes to the young students from Grades four to six, helping them realize that modern-day individuals can also be considered heroes. Over 100 students from Kinawitan Elementary School, Mabini Elementary School, and San Vicente Peque±o Elementary School were invited to participate in the event.
Magdaraog noted that ‘Buhay na Bayani’ began in 2021 and has now reached its fourth year. The event seeks to educate children about living heroes, alongside lessons on historical figures, to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of valor. Students from Bicol University, enrolled in the Bachelor of Performing Arts (Theater), contributed by portraying traditional heroes like Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, and Gabriela Silang through theatrical performances.
JCI Daraga included uniformed personnel such as the Bureau of Fire, the Philippine Army, and the Philippine National Police, as well as representatives from various professions like teaching, social work, medicine, farming, and fishing, in the ‘Buhay na Bayani’ celebration. Magdaraog highlighted the uniqueness of this year’s event with the involvement of Bicol University students in theater presentations.
In a separate interview, Elson Jay Mortel, a teacher at Baligang Elementary School, expressed his honor in participating in the event, which allowed him to share his experiences and inspire students to become ‘Buhay na Bayani.’ He emphasized the significance of recognizing both historical and modern heroes.
Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon, invited as a “modern-day hero,” encouraged everyone to be heroes by following laws and being good citizens. Dizon also showcased the different uniforms worn by police officers to the learners.
Students expressed their enjoyment and engagement with the presentations, saluting the modern-day heroes who participated in the event.
