A spark of hope lit the grounds of Pinagpala Children’s Home as the Society of Applied Mathematics of UPLB (SAM-UP) brought back “ENABLE 2025: Empowering through Numeracy and Basic Literacy Education” on Saturday, April 12.
For 26 years, Pinagpala Children’s Home has served as a home for children from various underprivileged families, many of whom face educational gaps. Members of SAM-UP visited the community in Calauan, Laguna, where they taught fundamental lessons in Math, English, and Filipino to children aged 8–12 years old. The organization came with a spirit of generosity and brought donations collected from kind-hearted sponsors and alumni.
The program kick-started with a message from Lola Nitz, the administrator and owner of the child care center, who thanked the members for organizing the event and reminded them to create a safe environment for the kids. This was followed by a warm and welcoming acapella performance from the children. After an adorable performance, a set of games brought together both members and children alike, and the sound of laughter filled the venue. Around 50 learners were grouped according to their grade level, with SAM-UP tutors leading fun and interactive learning sessions designed to help the kids enjoy their time.
As the program unfolded, members were able to engage and connect with the children through teaching and playing games. The kids’ talents shined through singing and dancing performances, and the sincerity of the members was felt as they dedicated time for kwentuhan and kumustahan with the kids. After diligently learning with their ates and kuyas, everyone gathered to share a meal and celebrate the day. From counting up to millions in Math to exploring the parts of a story in Filipino and English, the excitement and laughter reflected the spirit of a community that ENABLE aims to foster.
Nearing the end of the event, the kids prepared a little surprise for Sir Jonathan Mamplata, an alumnus of SAM-UP and the day’s birthday celebrant. The kids and members sang Happy Birthday and scribbled messages of gratitude on a whiteboard as a tribute to Sir Mamplata’s relentless support and love for the organization, community, and children. “Dahil masaya kayo, mas masaya kami. Ang hiling ko lang ay gamitin niyo ang mga dala naming aral sa mabuting paraan,” he said, as a message to cap off the event.
Pinagpala Children’s Home stands steadfast by its duty to passionately nurture, support, and care for children in need. Their inspiring work relies on community support and outreach efforts. To discover more about their programs, meet the children, or contribute to their community, visit their Facebook page: Pinagpala Children’s Home to be part of the cause. Your engagement—whether it be spreading awareness, volunteering, or donating—helps sustain this vital mission.
ENABLE 2025 is merely a small fraction of a larger initiative towards enhancing the education and lives of the Filipino youth. At its heart, ENABLE is rooted in the belief that education is a bridge to new beginnings. As everyone exchanged their goodbyes, hugs, and high-fives, hope filled the hearts of many—SAM-UP remains dedicated to providing learning opportunities and aid to all Filipinos in need, one community at a time.
