IN a heartwarming joint community service, Royal Knights Eagles Club and Kiwanis Club of Golden CDO, both from Cagayan De Oro City, epitomized the spirit of giving by showering near 500 pupils, including their parents, from Lapok Elementary Schools with gifts and meals. 

The students belonging to Barangay Lapok, a remote area in Talakag town in Bukidnon, reveled in the joyful excess of early Christmas kindness.

The local initiative named "Pamaskong Handog," was an act of kindness and valor aimed at making a difference to the students from kindergarten to Grade Six. 

DELIGHTFUL Lapok Elementary School Pupils were filled with joy as they receiving school supplies from Kiwanians and Eagles, Claire Ng and Liziel L. Santander, during the 'Pamaskong Handog' event. This joint community service initiative was organized by the Eagles and Kiwanis Clubs. (Photo by Ben Balce)

These students reveled in a festive mood as they received Jollibee food packs, school supplies, slippers, fruits, and even ice cream. 

As the students savored their gifts, their parents too were treated to the sumptuous taste of cooked food with chicken, eggs, and Mana Rice that had been kindly organized by the two philanthropic clubs.

JOYFUL PUPILS delight in receiving Jollibee food packs, juice, and fruits during the 'Pamaskong Handog' event organized by philanthropic clubs: Royal Knights Eagles and Kiwanis og Golden CDO. (Photo supplied)

In a reflection of shared joy at the event, Lapok Elem School Head, Eagle Jhonmark Oligario, officially opened the program. 

The event served as a novel platform for the students and parents to interact with various community leaders, who were all well-represented by their respective dignitaries.

NMR 12 Bagwis Dos Governor, Eagle Eric Daabay also the Royal Knights Eagles Club chartred president delivered the statement of purpose, followed by a heartwarming message from Kiwanis International Division 4-A Lieutenant Governor, Rod Seballos. 

NMR XII Bagwis Dos Governor Eric Daabay delivers an inspirational message to the 493 pupils of Lapok Elementary School during the 'Pamaskong Handog' event. This joint community service was initiated by the Royal Knights Eagles Club and Kiwanis Club of Golden CDO on December 15, 2023, at Barangay Lapok in Talakag, Bukidnon. (Photo by Eagle JC Cinco)

Representatives from OHMBETS and numerous other stakeholders also offered their messages, and the Chairperson of the Parent Teacher Association also had words of appreciation for the initiative.

SUMPTUOUS FOOD: Eagles and Kiwanis come together to prepare Mana rice, ensuring a nutritious meal for the pupils. Pictured are Eagles and Kiwanis governors NMR XII Bagwis Dos Eric Daabay, KI Division 4-A Rod Seballos, Kuya Harold Santander, Irene Ostulano, Stephen Llarenas, Nicole Reyes, and KI Golden CDO president Claire Ng. Ma Llani Tan and Kiwanian Nilfa Grabato can be seen facing right, actively involved in the preparation process. (Photo by Ben Balce)

Eagle governor Daabay defined the spirit of the occasion with his message - "giving is better than receiving as Christmas is always for kids and children." 

His sentiment was echoed by Jhonmark Oligario, who expressed gratitude for the community service rendered, especially for the food and gifts that the learners had received.

SPREADING JOY: KI Golden CDO Club President Claire Ng, along with Kiwanians Bimbo and Irene, and Royal Knights applicant Rico Saraus, prepares a delightful feast of Mana Rice with chicken and eggs. This generous contribution by the philanthropic clubs brings a shower of blessings to Lapok Elementary School. (Photo by Ben Balce)

The event ended on a note of continuing service to the community, strengthening the bond between the Royal Knights Eagles Club and the Kiwanis Club of Golden CDO. 

As declared by Eagle Daabay, "this brotherhood is committed to serving the community with joint forces." 

The event celebrated the transformative potential of collective efforts and the spirit of giving that underscores the holiday season.