By: Ms. Dichie Mae Brigoli (GS Faculty)
Grounded in the belief that one of the most meaningful ways to learn Social Studies is through experience, the intermediate pupils of Sacred Heart School – Ateneo de Cebu embarked on a three-day Lakbay Aral on January 27–29, 2026. This educational tour sought to transform textbook lessons into real-world encounters, making classroom discussions more relevant, engaging, and alive. It aimed to deepen the Ateneo Hearters’ understanding of Philippine history, culture, various livelihoods, and civic responsibility through experiential learning. Although the trip had previously been canceled due to unforeseen circumstances that struck the province, the Lakbay Aral this school year was still successfully carried out.
The Grade 4 Nation Builders began their journey with prayers and candle lighting at the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, grounding their trip in faith and gratitude. They, then, visited the Rizaliana Museum, where they learned more about the life of Jose Rizal through his writings, clothing, and family tree. Another stop was the University of San Carlos Museum, where they viewed biological artifacts and a photographic presentation depicting the daily life of the Igorot people from the Cordillera Administrative Region.
A highlight of their trip was the immersive visit to FPD Corporation and Profood International Corporation. There, the pupils explored different community livelihoods and witnessed firsthand how dried mango products are carefully processed and prepared for distribution as world-class exports. Seeing these industries up close allowed them to appreciate the hard work and innovation behind local enterprises.
Meanwhile, the Grades 5 and 6 Nation Builders took a meaningful journey through time as they visited selected historical sites and some of Cebu’s finest museums. They explored the country’s financial history at the BPI Museum, where they examined old currency, bank documents, and historical banking equipment. Another destination was the Jesuit House, one of the oldest houses in Cebu, which preserves artifacts reflecting the contributions of the early Jesuits to the island’s religious history.
The group also paid a visit to the Casa Gorordo Museum, the former residence of Cebu’s first Filipino bishop, Juan Gorordo. The museum features original furniture, artworks, and household items from the 19th century, offering pupils a glimpse into the lifestyle of that era. Their itinerary included Museo Sugbo, which showcases archeological artifacts and memorabilia tracing Cebuano history from pre-colonial times through the Spanish, American, and Japanese periods. Another key destination was the National Museum of the Philippines – Cebu, where exhibits such as “Kinaiyahan” (biodiversity), “Ang Karaang Sugbo” (archeology, including a 15th-century gold death mask), and “Paglawig” (maritime history) highlighted the richness of Cebuano heritage.
To ensure that learning extended beyond the four walls of the classroom, the teachers prepared multidisciplinary activities through the Lakbay-Aral booklet. This material included reflection tasks designed to help learners connect their observations and experiences with their Social Studies lessons, encouraging deeper insight and personal engagement.
Indeed, Lakbay Aral 2026 was more than just an educational trip—it was a journey of discovery, patriotism, and personal growth. Through firsthand encounters with Philippine history, culture, and local livelihoods, the Ateneo Hearters in the intermediate level gained meaningful insights that no textbook alone could fully provide.
