National Service Training Program Final Examination

Albiola, Fernando Isaac A. Wed 9:00-12:00 BSA1-C

Was I supposed to attend the program? Earlier today, the outreach program for the
single parents of selected barangays happened in the school gymnasium. The week
before, we were told to arrive early and assist. Also, last night, the structure of the event
was sent to our group chat. Me and my classmates were notified that it would start at
exactly nine in the morning. I am one of the students who arrived an hour late. Looking
at the time, it was already ten; I was running from the gate to the gymnasium. After
arriving, I was shocked because it hadn’t started yet. I logged my name into the
attendance sheet, then looked for my classmates. Being with them, they were bored;
they told me that they arrived at eight just to be able to help, but all jobs are done. A
while later, I heard the MC speaking. Firstly, there were opening remarks followed by
the singing of the national anthem (where no flag was presented) and hymn, both of
which had someone who gesticulated the rhythm. Disappointingly, she didn’t
choreograph the gesture, and we were left watching a teacher who felt the need to even
teach her the right beat. Secondly, there was an intermission number. We found it
ridiculous because we don’t know what that thing was for. The program was for single
parents. It was kind of hip-hop. If performed at the right event, that dance would be
astounding. Thirdly, they were demonstrating the making of chocolate truffles. I was so
engaged in the preparation and all that. But the audience was silent; some were even
using their cellphones and weren't listening. I just thought to myself that maybe it was
the language used when presenting and explaining the slides. Lastly, before doing the
raffle, they gave the audience some food. After being filled, I observed how engaged
they were in the following games. For instance, eating the Hansel was hilarious and
fulfilling at the same time. Because, at the very least, they are having a great time, even
at the moment before I left. At that exact moment, some guys collected the chairs we
were sitting on and asked us to find another spot, which we simply returned the chairs
to and left the area. I really wanted to finish the program without standing and bathing in
my sweat. Before concluding, I really don't want to come off as disrespectful and hateful
to the department or whoever organized that program, as well as trash the efforts of the
students who helped the organization make the program happen. However, for
something as important and valuable as an outreach program, giving to those who are
in need is important. The gift-giving, raffle, and games were great ideas, but the rest of
the program was poorly planned and executed. I was satisfied that the goal had been
met, but watching those people become stressed and bored during most of the program
was torturous. So, following my question, was I supposed to attend the program? My
answer would be no. Even as an audience member, I was stressed by how
disorganized that program was. It was chaotic in all aspects.