From individual awardees to ** family

(indi ko kabalo ano isugpon na pag title)

The Gerry Roxas Leadership Awardees of Visayas were gathered Last July 6-7, 2019 at Natos Farm,
Bacolod City for the Bayanihan Camp batch IX with the theme: “insert theme here”

As a camper, I was thrilled but at the same time nervous. It was my first participation with GRF. I had
questions in mind like “Will I fit in?” “Do I really deserve this award?” “Why was this given to me?” “Am I
still eligible to be here?”

I wondered what it is like to be in such a prestigeous group but at the same time I doubted myself. My
insecurities piled up — i’m 20, an awardee with a one year old.

As we waited for our ride going to Nato’s Farm, I am certain that my fellow camp graduates noticed that I
was extremely silent. I had one rule for myself: “I will only speak when someone speaks to me first”.
Rude? Not really. I was simply shy. Let’s say i’m an introverted extrovert.

Camp finally begun. I was keenly observing everyone and all through out the camp I just had one
thought, “Wow!Wow!Wow! These are my fellow awardees” I can’t stop being amazed. It was a fun filled
experience and as I mingled with them I regained my confidence.

On the last night of camp, I told them I’m a single mom. I know they will understand but I never thought
they’d accept me with open arms. With that, I received encouragements and compliments. Now, I am
more inspired and motivated to better myself because as leaders we are not only called for service but
also for inspiration. There are plenty of GRLAs who have fought the rough roads to success and camp
made me realize I want to be one of them. We can be one of them.

It is indeed important to surround yourself with like minded people. People who share the same values,
beliefs and advocacies with you because there you will find home. You will find your core and to me
home is with GRLA — one for Integrity, Service and Excellence
My heart is full of endless gratitude, and it is a big privilege to assume the role of being the President of
Gerry Roxas Leaders-Negros Student's Society.

This Panambiton will serve as a celebration of the wonderful moments we have achieved over the years.

Building our nation is the primary goal of every Gerry Leaders to build, strengthen and give vitality by
doing community outreach, projects and programs in every Barangays that could be able to maximize
leaders skills and capabilities that can help them to be effective, transparent and bonafied.

Fellow leaders, let us continue to cherish aspiration and thrive to make it a reality by continuing the
legacy of Integrity, Service and Excellence.

I believe that there is still work to be done so let us have unity and camaraderie to develop more leaders
and create an effective community.

Jude Carlo D. Dio-an

Gerry Roxas Leaders-Negros Student's Society

President