Celebrating Giving and Love: Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris Feeding Culmination at Tamadang Elementary School

On December 17, 2024, the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris marked a meaningful milestone at Tamadang Elementary School in Kiamba, Sarangani Province. The day was a joyous blend of the Feeding Program Culmination, Family Day, and a festive Christmas Party, bringing together students, parents, teachers, and the local community in a celebration of giving, love, and gratitude.

The festivities began with energetic dance presentations by students from all grade levels, from Kindergarten to Grade 6. Their vibrant performances were a testament to their enthusiasm and hard work. Not to be outdone, parents and teachers joined in the fun with their own lively dance routines, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration that brought smiles to everyone’s faces.

As part of the Christmas meal, the club contributed three generous tubes of ice cream, adding a sweet touch to the occasion. The highlight of the day was the distribution of 157 pairs of shoes and pre-loved clothes to students and parents, a gesture warmly welcomed by the community. These gifts aimed to spread the spirit of Christmas and provide practical support to families.

A special moment of recognition honored the five students who achieved the highest weight gains during the two-month Feeding Program. Their accomplishments reflected the program’s impact on addressing nutritional needs and promoting healthy growth among children in the community.

The day ended on a heartwarming note as parents expressed their gratitude to the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris with heartfelt gestures. The club members were gifted bananas, cassava, and even a live native chicken — tokens of appreciation that symbolized the labor and love of the community. These humble yet meaningful gifts were deeply cherished, representing the bonds formed through shared effort and kindness.

This culmination activity encapsulated the true essence of Christmas: giving, sharing, and celebrating love. It was a reminder that small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of joy and gratitude. As the members of the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris left with full hearts and cherished memories, they also took with them a renewed commitment to serving the children of the world and uplifting communities in need.

The Feeding Culmination at Tamadang Elementary School was not just an event; it was a testament to the power of collective compassion and the magic of Christmas. Together, we proved that when people come together with a shared purpose, extraordinary things can happen.

KC SARGEN ILLUSTRIS

Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris Club Report (2023-2024)

March 2024:

  • Club Chartering: On March 23, 2024, the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris was officially chartered at Sun City Suites. The event was a wonderful celebration of service, unity, and commitment to our cause. Distinguished guests and Kiwanians from various clubs joined us in this significant milestone.
  • Interclub Feeding Program: In collaboration with other clubs, we provided essential school supplies and slippers to 300 children. Through our feeding program, we nourished their bodies and reignited hope and determination in their hearts.

April 2024:

  • Monthly Meeting: Held at BM Beth Duque’s rest house in Kablon, Tupi, our April monthly meeting was a perfect blend of productivity and team spirit amidst a serene environment.
  • Clean Up Drive: Partnering with Yes-O and SSLG, we conducted a community cleanup at AG Busano High School, with the help of 150 senior high students, leaving a significant impact on the environment.
  • Interclubbing Activity & Feeding Program: The month concluded with a meaningful outreach to the tribal children in Alabel Sarangani Province, distributing food packs, school bags, and slippers. This effort brought smiles to over 100 tribal children and their families.

May 2024:

  • Kiwanis Inter-Club Community Service Project: We proudly supported the young athletes of SRAA by ensuring they stayed hydrated throughout the Regional Games by providing and refilling mineral water.
  • Fellowship at SarBay Festival: Our members gathered at the SarBay Festival, where we symbolized our club’s fresh chapter through the ceremonial turnover of our official banner and gavel.
  • Kiwanis Children’s Fund Microgrant Approval: Approval of microgrant application for the “Youth Wellness Mission for Bagong Silang,” extending our ability to impact more lives.
Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris Mineral Water Donation
Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris SarBay 2024
Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris SarBay 2024

June 2024:

  • Reading and Literacy Program: In partnership with the General Santos City Public Library, we embarked on promoting literacy through book donations and establishing reading centers in local barangays.
  • Interclubbing Activity: Together with Kiwanis Club Synergy Gensan, we celebrated birthdays with the girls at Maria Goretti Home for Girls, creating joy and inspiration.
Reading and literacy program of Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris with the General Santos City Public Library

July 2024:

  • Reading and Literacy Program (2nd Tranche): We successfully donated over P100,000 worth of daily devotionals, textbooks, and a complete set of encyclopedias to the General Santos City Public Library, which will be distributed to various Barangay Reading Centers.
  • Interclubbing Activity – Nutrition Month Celebration: We joined forces with other Kiwanis Clubs in Division 6A and the Municipality of Malungon in celebrating Nutrition Month. The event was filled with fun activities aimed at promoting better health and nutrition awareness in the community.
  • Feeding Program at Buayan National High School: We sponsored the National Learning Camp Culmination at Buayan National High School by providing delicious snacks, including spaghetti, fried chicken, and orange juice, supporting young learners and their academic success.
  • Club SEC Registration: A milestone achievement as we received approval for the SEC Registration of our club, making it an official legal entity in the Philippines.

August 2024:

  • Feeding, Reading, and Literacy Programs: We participated in the launch of Barangay Conel Reading Center, donating resources and providing snacks for preschool kids, furthering our literacy mission.
  • Health Initiative: We supplied painting materials to the school clinic of General Santos City High School, helping create a better environment for students.

September 2024:

  • Fellowship: Our members attended the Southern Philippines District Kiwanis Convention in Ormoc, fostering fellowship and inspiration for future service projects.
  • Reading and Literacy Project: In collaboration with Save The Children and the General Santos City Public Library, we launched a community-based literacy program, aiming to inspire young minds and foster a love for reading.
  • Opening of Club’s Bank Account: We successfully opened the club’s bank account with Sterling Bank, a step toward greater financial management and sustainability of our service projects.
  • Fellowship: We attended the Club Chartering Ceremony og Kiwanis Club of Dreamweavers SC and Induction of New Members of Kiwanis Club of Tnalak, SC, fostering fellowship with Kiwanis Club 6B.

Looking Ahead: 2024-2025 Planned Activities

  • Youth Wellness Mission for Bagong Silang (Microgrant Program)
  • Collaboration with Save The Children & General Santos City Public Library
  • Feeding Programs in Kiamba and Maitum
  • Establishment of Circle K and Key Club Chapters

We are incredibly proud of the achievements our club has accomplished this year. As we look forward to 2024-2025, we encourage all members to renew their membership and continue our mission of serving the children of the world. Your commitment has been instrumental in driving our success, and we need your support to continue making a difference.

Membership Renewal Form

Please take a moment to fill out the membership renewal form and join us for another impactful year of service.

Name(Required)
Email(Required)
Will you renew your membership and continue changing lives, one child at a time?
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Celebrating the Launch of Barangay Conel’s Reading Center: A Milestone for General Santos City

On August 8, 2024, the Barangay Hall Compound in Barangay Conel was abuzz with excitement as the community came together to celebrate a significant milestone: the launch of the Barangay Conel Reading Center. This event marks a pivotal moment in the quest to promote literacy and education in General Santos City, and the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris was honored to be part of this remarkable occasion.

The celebration was graced by the presence of the City Vice Mayor, Hon. Rosalita T. Nunez, MNSA, Ph.D., who delivered a powerful and inspiring message of support. As a seasoned educator, Vice Mayor Nunez emphasized the vital importance of reading, urging everyone to contribute to the collective effort to elevate the nation’s reading levels. Her words resonated deeply with the attendees, highlighting the transformative power of education and the critical role that reading plays in personal and community development.

The highlight of the event was the ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by Vice Mayor Nunez, which officially opened the Barangay Reading Center. This new facility promises to be a beacon of learning, providing access to a wealth of reading materials and resources that will benefit the entire community.

The Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris played an active role in the event, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to community service. The club provided delicious snacks for the preschool children in attendance, adding a touch of joy and celebration to the day. This gesture reflects the club’s dedication to supporting the youngest members of the community and ensuring that events like these are memorable and enjoyable for all.

Beyond the festivities, the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris is deeply involved in supporting the General Santos City Public Library through various initiatives. The club has donated books and other essential resources, reinforcing their commitment to fostering a culture of reading and learning. These contributions are vital in providing the community with the tools they need to succeed and thrive.

The event also celebrated a remarkable achievement: Barangay Conel’s reading center becoming the first barangay reading center to be affiliated with the National Library. This affiliation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the local leaders and the community. Hon. Tessie Agbayani, Punong Barangay Conel, deserves special recognition for her leadership and vision in making this milestone a reality.

Additionally, the event highlighted the efforts of the energetic Technical Working Group of the City Library, led by Dr. Cecilia Guaza. Their relentless dedication to reaching out to barangays and bringing reading centers to life has been instrumental in expanding access to educational resources. Their work ensures that more communities can benefit from these vital services, promoting literacy and education across the region.

The Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris remains steadfast in its mission to support and uplift the community through education and service. The launch of the Barangay Conel Reading Center is a shining example of what can be achieved when communities come together with a shared vision for a brighter future.

As we celebrate this milestone, let us all be inspired by the words of Vice Mayor Nunez and continue to work towards improving reading levels and fostering a love for learning. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and the community as a whole.

For more updates on our projects and initiatives, stay connected with the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris. Together, we can build a brighter and more educated future for General Santos City.


Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris is a service organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and families in General Santos City through various community service projects and partnerships.

A Joyous Celebration at Maria Goretti Home for the Girls by Kiwanis Club Synergy Gensan and Kiwanis Club SarGen Illustris

Birthdays are always special, but celebrating them with a purpose makes them even more meaningful. Recently, the Kiwanis Club Synergy Gensan and Kiwanis Club SarGen Illustris came together to mark the birthdays of their dedicated members in a truly heartwarming way. Atty. Marivic Fillalan, President of Kiwanis Club Synergy Gensan; Neptale Natividad, a member of the same club; Loida Dofeles, President of Kiwanis Club SarGen Illustris; and Luz Divino, a member of Kiwanis Club SarGen Illustris, chose to celebrate their birthdays at the Maria Goretti Home for the Girls, spreading joy and inspiration among the young residents.

The atmosphere at the home was filled with excitement and anticipation as the girls eagerly awaited the celebration. The event was a beautiful blend of fun, games, and heartfelt messages that left a lasting impact on everyone present.

Fun and Games: Building Bonds and Creating Memories

The celebration kicked off with a series of engaging parlor games, designed to foster camaraderie and bring out the competitive spirit in everyone. The girls and the visitors teamed up, laughed, and played with enthusiasm. The joy was palpable as participants received prizes, adding an extra layer of excitement to the festivities.

Inspiring Messages: Words of Wisdom and Encouragement

Amidst the fun and laughter, there were moments of reflection and inspiration. Atty. Marivic Fillalan, President of Kiwanis Club Synergy Gensan, shared a poignant message that resonated deeply with the girls. She drew an analogy between a crumpled thousand bill and a newly printed one, emphasizing that both hold the same value despite their appearance. “So it does not matter whether we are flawed and crumpled, we all have the same value in the eyes of God,” she said. Her words served as a powerful reminder that each of us, regardless of our imperfections, holds intrinsic worth.

Adding to the inspiration, KC Division 6A Lieutenant Governor Charlemagne Tan Delfino addressed the girls with her own message of hope and faith. She acknowledged the trials and tribulations that life often presents, and the inevitable question of “why me?” that arises in difficult times. LG Charlemagne encouraged the girls to lift their worries to God, assuring them that doing so would lighten their burdens. Her words provided comfort and a sense of reassurance to the young listeners.

A Feast to Remember: Sharing Meals and Building Connections

Following the inspirational messages, everyone gathered for a sumptuous dinner. The meal was not just a feast for the body but also an opportunity for deeper connections to be forged. Conversations flowed easily, and the sense of community and togetherness was palpable. The shared meal was a fitting conclusion to an evening that had been rich in both joy and wisdom.

Gratitude and Acknowledgment: A Heartfelt Thank You

As the event drew to a close, Sister Flor from Maria Goretti Home for the Girls expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Kiwanis Club. She thanked them for their unwavering support and for consistently bringing joy and hope to the home. Her words underscored the importance of such events and the positive impact they have on the lives of the young residents.

The celebration at Maria Goretti Home for the Girls was more than just a birthday party; it was a testament to the power of community, kindness, and compassion. The Kiwanis Club Synergy Gensan and Kiwanis Club SarGen Illustris demonstrated that by coming together and sharing their special day with others, they could create a ripple effect of positivity and encouragement.

In a world that often feels disconnected, events like this remind us of the importance of reaching out, supporting one another, and celebrating the inherent value in every individual. The girls at Maria Goretti Home were not just recipients of a joyous celebration; they were also reminded of their worth and potential, thanks to the inspiring words and actions of the Kiwanis Club members.

As the lights dimmed and the laughter echoed through the halls, it was clear that this was a birthday celebration that would be remembered for a long time, not just by the celebrants, but by everyone who was touched by the generosity and kindness of the Kiwanis Club.

Here’s a story of Maria Goretti and why she is the patron saint of young girls. https://christianapostles.com/st-maria-goretti/

Barangay Reading Centers in General Santos City

Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris: Promoting Literacy and Education in General Santos City

In a significant step towards promoting literacy and education, the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris has joined hands with the General Santos City Public Library to implement Republic Act 7743 and City Ordinance No. 04 Series of 2020. This collaboration underscores the vital role of public libraries and reading centers in enhancing the moral and intellectual well-being of Filipinos, and it aims to create a lasting impact on the community by improving literacy rates and fostering a culture of reading.

Understanding Republic Act No. 7743 and City Ordinance No. 04 Series of 2020

Republic Act No. 7743, enacted to promote the establishment of public libraries and reading centers in all local government units, is a testament to the government’s commitment to education and literacy. The act emphasizes the crucial role that education plays in nation-building, and it seeks to make learning resources accessible to every Filipino, regardless of their location. City Ordinance No. 04 Series of 2020 aligns with this national objective by providing a framework for implementing these initiatives at the local level in General Santos City.

The Role of Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris

The Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris, known for its dedication to community service, has been instrumental in supporting educational initiatives. Education and literacy are among the key causes championed by Kiwanis International, and the SarGen Illustris chapter is no exception. Recognizing the importance of these causes, the club has committed to enhancing the resources and capabilities of local public libraries and reading centers.

Ocular Inspection and Community Engagement

Recently, a team led by The Technical Working Group, headed by BRC Focal Person Cecilia P. Guaza, RL, Ed.D. conducted an ocular inspection of several reading centers in General Santos City. Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris President Loida Dofeles and Kiwanis Club Division 6A Lieutenant Charlemagne Tan Delfino, accompanied them. The inspection covered the Reading Centers of Barangay San Jose, Barangay Fatima, and Barangay Siguel.

During these visits, President Loida and LG Charlemagne took the opportunity to speak with Barangay Officials during their sessions. They shared insights about Kiwanis International and its goals, highlighting the club’s commitment to education and literacy. These interactions fostered a sense of collaboration and mutual support between the Kiwanis Club and local government units, setting the stage for effective implementation of the literacy initiatives.

Contributions to the General Santos City Public Library

To support the General Santos City Public Library, the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris has pledged to donate books, bookshelves, and other materials necessary for effective library operations. This contribution is aimed at enhancing the library’s capacity to serve the community, providing residents with better access to educational resources and fostering a culture of reading and learning.

The donation includes a diverse selection of books catering to various age groups and interests, ensuring that the library can meet the needs of all its patrons. Additionally, the provision of bookshelves and other essential materials will help create a more organized and welcoming environment for library users.

Impact on the Community

The collaboration between the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris and the General Santos City Public Library is expected to have a profound impact on the community. By enhancing the resources available at public libraries and reading centers, this initiative aims to improve literacy rates and foster a love for reading among residents. Increased access to educational materials will empower individuals to pursue lifelong learning, ultimately contributing to the overall development and progress of the community.

Future Plans and Ongoing Commitment

The Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris remains committed to its mission of promoting education and literacy. The recent collaboration with the General Santos City Public Library is just one of many initiatives aimed at making a positive impact on the community. Moving forward, the club plans to continue its support for local libraries and reading centers, ensuring that they have the resources needed to serve the community effectively.

The partnership between the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris and the General Santos City Public Library is a shining example of how community organizations can work together to promote education and literacy. By supporting the implementation of Republic Act 7743 and City Ordinance No. 04 Series of 2020, the club is helping to create a brighter future for the residents of General Santos City. Through their dedication and contributions, the Kiwanis Club is making a lasting impact on the community, fostering a culture of learning and empowering individuals to achieve their full potential.

As the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris continues its mission, the residents of General Santos City can look forward to a future where education and literacy are prioritized, and where public libraries and reading centers are equipped to meet the needs of all. The club’s efforts serve as an inspiration, demonstrating the power of community collaboration in building a better, more educated society.

Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris SarBay 2024

A Weekend to Remember: Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris at SarBay Festival 2024

The weekend of May 25-26, 2024, will forever be etched in the memories of the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris members. The club came together to celebrate at the much-anticipated SarBay Festival, an event that captures the vibrant spirit and culture of our community. From the sun-soaked shores to the electrifying beats of the festival, the experience was nothing short of spectacular.

The SarBay Festival: A Celebration of Life

The SarBay Festival, renowned for its exuberant celebrations, did not disappoint this year. The festival is a beloved annual event, drawing people from all over to the pristine shores of Sarangani Bay. It’s a time when the community comes alive with music, dance, and a shared love for the sea. This year, our club was thrilled to be part of the festivities, marking our participation with both enjoyment and a significant ceremonial moment.

Highlights of the Festival

Our members basked in the glory of the sun-soaked shores, indulging in various activities that the festival had to offer. The sound of waves crashing gently against the shore provided a serene backdrop to the lively beats of the festival. Music filled the air, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration. The energy was contagious, and our members found themselves dancing and singing along, forging stronger bonds and creating lasting memories.

A Moment of Significance: Ceremonial Turnover

The pinnacle of our participation at the SarBay Festival was the ceremonial turnover of our club’s official banner and gavel. This ceremony symbolized a fresh chapter in the history of the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris. As the banner and gavel were handed over, it was a moment of reflection on our journey so far and a reaffirmation of our commitment to community service. The ceremony was met with cheers and applause from our members, each one proud to be part of this esteemed organization.

Exceptional Hospitality at Isla Jardin Del Mar

Our heartfelt gratitude goes to Isla Jardin Del Mar for their exceptional VIP accommodations. Their hospitality made our stay remarkably comfortable and enjoyable, ensuring that we could fully immerse ourselves in the festival without a worry. The picturesque setting of Isla Jardin Del Mar, combined with their top-notch service, made us feel at home. The comfortable accommodations provided a perfect retreat after a day of festivities, allowing us to recharge and enjoy every moment of the SarBay Festival.

Looking Ahead: Continued Commitment to Service

As we look back on the SarBay Festival, we are reminded of the importance of community and the joy that comes from shared experiences. The festival was not just about celebration; it was a testament to our club’s spirit and dedication to service. The ceremonial turnover of our banner and gavel is a promise of our continued commitment to making a positive impact in our community.

Thank You to Our Members and Hosts

We extend our gratitude to all our members who participated and made the event memorable. Your enthusiasm and dedication are what make the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris special. Additionally, a special thank you to Isla Jardin Del Mar for their unparalleled hospitality. Your support and accommodations played a significant role in enhancing our festival experience.

A Weekend to Cherish

The SarBay Festival of 2024 will be remembered as a weekend of joy, music, camaraderie, and significant milestones for the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris. As we move forward, we carry with us the energy and spirit of the festival, ready to embark on new initiatives and continue our service to the community. Here’s to more celebrations, more service, and more unforgettable moments together.

Trash Bin Donation

Community Spirit Shines at Kiwanis SarGen Illustris Cleanup Drive

In a shining example of community spirit and collaboration, the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris partnered with AG Busano High School’s Yes-O and SSLG organizations for an inspiring community cleanup drive. This event, held on April 21, 2024, from 6 AM to 7 AM, brought together senior high school students, Kiwanis members, and the school’s dedicated faculty and staff for a morning of impactful action and camaraderie.

A Unified Effort for a Cleaner Environment

The event kicked off in the early hours of the morning with eager participants assembling at AG Busano High School. The enthusiasm was palpable as students, faculty, and Kiwanis members prepared to tackle the task of cleaning up their community. Armed with gloves, trash bags, and a shared sense of purpose, the volunteers spread out across the school grounds and nearby areas, picking up litter and ensuring that the environment was spotless.

This collective effort not only resulted in a cleaner and more pleasant environment but also served as an educational experience for the students. By actively participating in the cleanup, they learned the importance of environmental stewardship and the impact that small actions can have on the community. The sight of students working diligently to improve their surroundings was truly heartwarming and a testament to the power of collective action.

A Heartwarming Breakfast

Following the cleanup, the participants were treated to a warm and comforting breakfast. Manna rice porridge, a traditional and nourishing dish, was served to everyone. This meal not only replenished their energy but also provided an opportunity for students and volunteers to bond over shared experiences and reflections on the day’s activities. The breakfast was a simple yet meaningful way to show appreciation for the hard work and dedication of all involved.

Enhancing the School’s Material Recovery Facility

One of the highlights of the event was the turnover of new trash bins for the school’s Material Recovery Facility (MRF). These bins were generously donated by the Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris and represented a significant step toward improving waste management at AG Busano High School. The donation was ceremoniously handed over by Kiwanis President Loida Dofiles, with members of the club present to witness the moment.

The school’s principal, Doc Delsa Angeles, along with ten faculty and staff members, graciously accepted the donation. The new trash bins will play a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency of the MRF, enabling better sorting and recycling of waste materials. This contribution underscores the Kiwanis Club’s commitment to sustainability and their ongoing support for educational institutions in the community.

A Testament to Community Collaboration

The success of this event is a testament to the power of community collaboration. The partnership between Kiwanis SarGen Illustris, AG Busano High School, Yes-O, and SSLG highlights the positive outcomes that can be achieved when different groups come together with a common goal. By working hand in hand, they were able to create a cleaner and more sustainable environment while also fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility.

Looking Ahead

As the event drew to a close, there was a sense of accomplishment and renewed motivation among all participants. The cleanup drive was not just a one-time event but part of a broader commitment to environmental conservation and community service. The Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris and AG Busano High School plan to continue their collaboration, with more initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability and community well-being.

This cleanup drive was a shining example of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose. The Kiwanis Club of SarGen Illustris extends its heartfelt thanks to all the students, faculty, and staff who participated, as well as to the school administration for their unwavering support. Together, we are making strides toward a cleaner and greener future. Let’s keep the momentum going and continue to work together for the betterment of our community and our planet. 🌍💚

Text