A Bantay Bata Christmas
Growing up in the United States, 12-year-old Gabrielle “Gaby” Fernandez Berbey had always been in touch with her Filipino roots through her family. But as she was growing older, Gaby had become increasingly interested in knowing the Philippines and its people better – particularly Filipino kids like her. She had always heard about disadvantaged children in the Philippines and often wondered if she could do something to help. Last December, Gaby got her chance. Accompanied by her mom Rhoda, Gaby visited the Philippines for the first time and took the opportunity to visit the kids of Bantay Bata at their Christmas Party in the Children’s Village.
At the party, Gaby helped serve food to the kids and played a few games with them. The children offered their special interpretation of the Christmas story while Gaby, in return, played them some songs on her violin. A good day, indeed, was had by all and Gaby was most delighted with the experience.
“When I went to the Philippines, I decided to visit the Bantay Bata Children’s Village as part of my school’s community service program,” Gaby relates. “Coming from the U.S., I had never really been exposed to abuse or neglect, so I didn’t know what to expect.
“When I went to the Village, I was surprised by how well Bantay Bata has helped these kids, who have been through extremely hard times, live normal lives with friends, in school, and with people in general. I was amazed with how happy the kids are. Because of the experience, I definitely suggest people visiting the Philippines to make some time in their schedule to visit Bantay Bata.”
Thank you too, Gaby, for making this Bantay Bata Christmas a very special one!
Related Links
 ABS-CBN International
Sagip Kapamilya
Bantay Bata 163
E-Media/Educational (ETV)
Bantay Kalikasan
Bayan Microfinance
BayaniJuan
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