SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) —The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Region 1, through its Overseas Filipino Workers Children’s Circle (OCC), conducted a surfing activity at the Sebay Surf Central in Brgy. Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union on Nov. 11.
The OCC is an organization dedicated to the well-being of Overseas Filipino Workers’ (OFW) children within the Ilocos Region.
With the partnership of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the OCC project provides holistic programs and services for the benefit of OFW children.
This program helps develop the skills and talents of the children dependents and have them gain their full potential.
It also provides protection against drugs and illegal substances through engagement to sports activities.
The sports activity was participated by 15 young individuals aged 13 to 16 who are children of OFWs from Bacnotan town.
The enriching initiative aims to provide young Ilocanos with the opportunity to engage themselves with surfing as a sport while instilling essential values in their lives.
In his message, Khristian Paul Maglaya, Labor Communications Officer of OWWA Region 1, said by combining physical activity with values education, the organization fosters a generation of resilient, compassionate, and well-rounded individuals who can confidently navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
“Surfing is not only a source of physical activity and mental well-being but also cultivates resilience, perseverance, and teamwork – qualities that are particularly valuable for children growing up in families impacted by OFW migration,” Maglaya said.
With the guidance of experienced surf instructors, the participants learned about techniques and strategies in surfing.
Moreover, Amapola Villar, Overseas Workers Welfare Officer III of OWWA-OCC, and Zaldy Panopio Jr, a local surfer, emphasized the importance of values formation through interactive discussions and engaging activities.
Topics discussed were respect, responsibility, and compassion, nurturing their personal growth and development. (JCR/MJTAB/KJCR, PIA La Union)
