Tungawan, Philippines. The spirit of togetherness and worship blazed once again as the Claret Youth Ministry (CYM) of Tungawan and Guilinan gathered for the CYC/NYD 2025 Re-Echo Camp from October 17–19, 2025. Guided by the theme, “Rejoice in hope, endure in afflictions, persevere in prayer,” the three-day event, led by Camp Masters Alvie Jean Taan and Jhedrian Daligdig, was a powerful festival of hope, community, and spiritual life, reflecting the energy of the National Youth Day in a local setting.
The camp opened with participant registration, followed by the Opening Mass, led by Rev. Fr. Martin Ele, CMF. After dinner, participants attended the first session, “Start-Ups,” conducted by Jasniene Grace P. De Guzman. The session focused on the beauty of new beginnings and the purpose behind every first step, no matter how uncertain. Participants shared what “start-ups” looked like in their personal lives through innovative drawings, realizing that true growth begins the moment they take a bold step.
On the second day, subsequent sessions encouraged the young participants to ponder the journey of life. Camp Master Jhedrian Daligdig led the session, “Small Wins and Big Wins and Brokenness,” which focused on the need to celebrate every victory and accept every scar. He reminded the youth that every humble victory is a milestone in God’s greater plan, and that even in times of suffering, God’s grace serves as the light that heals and makes all things well.
These thoughts were further enhanced by a session led by Angelie Altubar, entitled “Dreams and Hope,” which guided participants to re-examine their own dreams and hopes alongside those of God. Angelie aptly highlighted that our dreams are the seeds of faith that sprout when placed in God’s hands. This was followed by a discussion on how faith acts as a “Shield and Defense” against life’s struggles, and how the love of God becomes our best defense, a session facilitated by Marlon Delante.
A symbolic tree planting activity followed, where participants used their faith. This exercise symbolized the journey of life: seedlings represented new lives, water and sunlight represented the people and faith that nourished them, and the surrounding earth symbolized the protective nature of those they love. The exercise was a reminder to all that spiritual development, much like nature, requires care, support, and illumination.
The day continued with the Claret Race, a high-energy activity that fostered teamwork and camaraderie among the delegates. As evening approached, silence and reflection descended, followed by Taizé prayer and confession. The night culminated in an uplifting praise and worship session, filling the space with music, love, and gratitude. It ended with a warm fellowship where CYM members from Tungawan and Guilinan shared stories, laughed, worshipped God, and bonded as one in Christ.
The third day began with the Holy Rosary, preparing participants for the final session, “Temperance and Prayer,” led by Alvie Jean Taan. The session explored temperance as the practice of saying “yes” to God and “no” to distractions that draw attention away from Him. Participants shared personal experiences and then created short Facebook Reels or TikTok videos depicting how this virtue is achieved in everyday life—an ingenious way of relating Christianity to contemporary expression.
The event concluded with the Holy Eucharist, again led by Rev. Fr. Martin Ele, CMF, who, in his homily, pointed out that every young minister will always have a home in the ministry. The event wrapped up with the giving of certificates and a closing program, concluding an experience filled with grace, friendship, and faith.
By the end of the CYC/NYD 2025 Re-Echo, it was clear to all that hope is best seen when united, perseverance is strengthened by community, and prayer is the lifeblood of any mission. What started in Naga has now spread to the hearts of the young people in Zamboanga Sibugay—crossing boundaries, lifting spirits, and reviving the call to worship God joyfully and with perseverance.
Dios Mabalos!
by Jude Aemengard Almenzo
