By Ms. Junesa T. Bonite – CEP Primary Moderator
On October 5, 2024, the Virginia Chiongbian Theater at Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu came alive with the spirit of camaraderie and pride as it hosted the KAB Scout Investiture Ceremony. The event was graced by the presence of the scouts’ parents, and esteemed guests from the school and the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) Cebu Council.
The ceremony marked an important milestone for young KAB Scouts as they officially took their oath, signifying their commitment to the principles of scouting. The school’s scoutmaster, SCTR. Markwil Ramos, led the investiture with enthusiasm and dedication. Mr. Ramos, himself a dedicated mentor, guided the young scouts throughout the event, inspiring them with the significance of the journey they were embarking on.
Among the notable guests was Dr. Bimbo Tequillo, an Ateneo Hearter himself, a father and a highly respected figure in the scouting community. As a board member of the BSP Cebu Council, Dr. Tequilo has been a strong advocate for scouting in the region. He was honored with multiple awards that highlighted his contributions to the scouting movement. He received the Leaders Council Officer award, recognizing his leadership within the organization.
Dr. Tequillo also holds the title of Eagle Scout awardee, the highest rank a Boy Scout can achieve. This recognition underscores his dedication to the values and skills taught in scouting, including self-discipline, outdoor skills, and a commitment to service. Moreover, he was bestowed the AVE MARIA award, the highest accolade given to a Catholic scout for exemplifying faith and service, both within the scouting program and the broader community.
In his address to the young scouts, Dr. Tequillo delivered an inspiring message about the profound impact that scouting has had on his life. He shared stories of his own journey as a young scout, highlighting the skills, values, and friendships he developed through the program. Dr. Tequillo emphasized how the experiences and lessons from scouting shaped him into the person he is today—a leader, a servant of the community, and a proud member of the scouting tradition. His words resonated deeply with the audience, encouraging the young KAB Scouts to embrace the values of scouting and to view the challenges they may face as opportunities for growth.
In addition to the formal ceremonies, the investiture served as a time for reflection on the importance of family support in the scouts’ journeys. Parents of the scouts, including those like Mr. Ramos who share the dual role of father and scoutmaster, were acknowledged for their vital role in nurturing the next generation of leaders.
The ceremony concluded with an encouragement from the Cebu City Council representative, Ms. Crislin Illustrisimo, who expressed their support for youth programs like scouting. This highlighted the role of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines in shaping responsible, community-oriented citizens. The gathering in the theater was a testament to the close-knit community fostered by Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu, where tradition, faith, and service converge.
Overall, the KAB Scout Investiture on October 5 was more than just an event; it was a celebration of values, leadership, and the beginning of a journey for the young scouts. The presence of dedicated leaders like Ms. Illustrisimo, Mr. Ramos and Dr. Tequillo made it a memorable day, setting the stage for a future where the scouts can grow, learn, and serve their community with pride.
