President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday led the grand opening of the 18th National Scout Jamboree in Iloilo as he expressed hope that the national scouting event could inspire the country’s youth to become active and productive members of society.
“To all our beloved scouts: Remember that you are here also to have fun, and to have an adventure, but to learn also about positive agents of change of which you can be part of,” President Marcos said during opening rites of the 18th National Scout Jamboree in Passi, Iloilo.
“Make your bodies strong and healthy. Keep your minds keen and ever-conscious. Stand your ground, embody the scout law, and heed the call of duty to God and Country,” he added.
“These qualities will make you a good scout – a good scout makes a good citizen, and a good contributor to our goal of building a Bagong Pilipinas.”
During the event, the President was inducted as the Chief Scout of the Boys Scout of the Philippines.
The jamboree being conducted in the province is a very important event, Marcos stressed, describing the event as the “mother of all activities” in every scout’s life.
The national scouting event, being held every four years, not only reminds every one of the continued importance of scouting, but also of the enduring legacy of the scouting movement in the Philippines.
Scouting also plays a vital role in fostering the spirit of camaraderie and leadership among Filipino youth through its unique blend of education, adventure, and fun, Marcos said.
Around 35,000 scouts and leaders nationwide are participating in the national scouting event with some special guests, and participation from other National Scout Organization from other countries, making it the biggest national jamboree in the Philippines.
Founded over a century ago, scouting aims to contribute to the empowerment of individuals and their development as active citizens in their local, national, and global communities.
The 18th National Scout Jamboree aims to provide a progressive, exciting, challenging, safe and enjoyable learning environment for the scouts in order to enhance their full Social, physical, intellectual, character, emotional and spiritual potentials as an active citizen making real contribution in creating a better community.
Today’s scouting is the world’s leading educational youth movement with over 57 million Scouts in over 200 countries and territories worldwide, with its activities inspiring young people to become active citizens engaged in creating a better and more sustainable world.
The National Scout Jamboree that runs from December 11 to 17 has for its theme: “Youth Engagement: Sustaining Relevance and Strengthening Resilience.” PND
