Letran SHS Tech-Voc Area conducts the Give Thanks, Together Celebration

Martha Bernadette Briol

PUBMAT | Rechelle Vistro

PHOTOS | Gerald Servado

April 28, 2023 (Friday) - The Home Economics students of the Letran Senior High School Department spearheaded the Give Thanks Together Culminating Program to demonstrate their food and beverage operation skills and showcase their gratitude towards the community partner of the Colegio, Barangay 85 in Tondo, Manila.

Hosted by Charmalle Caguindagan and Chrizel Caguindagan, they introduced Mr. Christian Reyes, TechVoc Learning Area Coordinator, who gave his opening remarks to express his appreciation towards the Grade 11 and Grade 12 students, the people behind the successful occasion. The surprises were revealed as the first game started; the game was named "Guess the Ulam." Pictures of numerous dishes flashed on the screen, and the visitors were free to guess them. Some were lechon baboy, considered one of the most famous dishes in Filipino food culture. Lechon baboy is "the brightener of every feast for every household." It is commonly served during several occasions, such as birthdays, fiestas, anniversaries, and other celebrations that require many people. The game also mentions that the Lechon Capital of the Philippines is found in La Loma, Quezon City. Next is the sinigang, one of the Filipino cuisines that is paired with rice. In 2021, Sinigang was named the World's Best Vegetable Soup by the food website TasteAtlas. Lastly, there is Lumpiang Shanghai. Originally called lumpia in Chinese, Chinese immigrants from Fujian Province brought it to the country.

As the first game ended, the Community Extension Department (CED) Coordinator of the Letran Senior High School, Ms. Audrey Joyce Marcelo, thanked the representatives of the partner community from Barangay 85, Tondo, Manila, who attended the event. She said she was grateful because of their unending support for all the possibilities the Colegio has been organizing. After the speech by Ms. Marcelo, surprises continued as the second game began, entitled "Tara Na, Biyahe Tayo." Just like the mechanics in the first game, several pictures flashed through the screen; however, this time, the images that were being shown were famous tourist destinations that can be found in the Philippines. Some of the places mentioned are Baguio City, popularly known as the "City of Pines," and the place where the Panagbenga Festival takes place. Next is Makati City, known as the cultural and entertainment hub in Metro Manila. Lastly, Iloilo City, named the "Heart of the Philippines," is believed to be one of the major urban cities in the country.

Finally, Ms. Angel Paglinawan, a Grade 11 Home Economics student, led the blessing of the food, which was the last part of the ceremony.