Celebrating Unity and Inclusion: Batino Elementary School’s Family Day

Harris Rainier
4 min readNov 13, 2023

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On November 10th, Batino Elementary School, a government-run Specialized Education (SPED), embraced a day filled with fun, camaraderie, and creativity in a Family Day event.

This half-day event, from 8 a.m. to noon, demonstrates the school’s commitment to fostering a sense of community and inclusion among students, parents, and volunteers.

A Day of Creativity and Unity

The highlight of Family Day is a series of activities designed to connect students and parents. The United Nations Costume Competition set the tone for the day as children and families expressed their creativity and cultural diversity through colorful and imaginative costumes. The competition is not only a feast for the eyes but also an opportunity for participants to learn about different cultures and celebrate the beauty of diversity.

United Nation Costume Competition Parent Edition Winners
United Nation Costume Competition Parent Edition Winners
United Nation Costume Competition Student Girls Edition Winners
United Nation Costume Competition Student Girls Edition Winners
United Nation Costume Competition Student Boys Edition Winners

Ms. Gladdy Mangente, Managing Director at RX Global, contributed ideas and expertise in her role as a judge. Her presence added a professional touch to the event, and her commitment to inclusion and education resonated with the school’s mission. She holds a prominent role as one of the actively engaged executive sponsors of REPH Enabled.

Ms. Glady Mangente revealing the champions of the UN Costume Contest
Ms. Glady Mangente revealing the champions of the UN Costume Contest

At the same time, the poster creation contest helped students develop their artistic talents. The competition not only provides artistic creative opportunities for students but is also a powerful means of communication and expression.

Poster Making Contest Winners
Poster Making Contest Winners

Inclusive Games and Family Bonding

There are games at the event that foster a sense of camaraderie and strong relationship between parents and students. With a variety of activities catered to kids with different needs as well as classic games, everyone could take part and have fun.

Kids Playing Cup Relay Game
Parents playing calamansi relay and Pinoy henyo game
Parents playing calamansi relay and Pinoy henyo game

Support from the Community

The success of Family Day is amplified by the generosity of volunteers and sponsors. Educational materials were distributed to students. Thanks to a donation drive organized by REPH Enabled, spearheaded by Ms. Olet Argonia. This act of kindness not only provides needed resources to students, but also highlights the importance of community support in ensuring the success of special education programs.

REPH Enabled Volunteers
REPH Enabled Volunteers
Ms. Olet Argonia (President of REPH Enabled), led the volunteer efforts.
Ms. Olet Argonia (President of REPH Enabled), led the volunteer efforts.

Capturing Moments

As the main event photographer, my role is to capture the smiles, laughter, and winning moments of the day. These photos are a visual testament to the spirit of unity and inclusion that permeated Batino Elementary School during its Family Day celebration.

Winning Family and Kids Photos
Winning Family and Kids Photos
American Sign Language (ASL) Students
American Sign Language (ASL) Students
Parents of students facing mobility challenges
Parents of students facing mobility challenges
Me in the middle with REPH Enabled volunteers
I am in the middle, posing with other REPH Enabled volunteers

Culminating in a Boodle Fight

The festival ends with boodle fight, a culinary tradition of the Filipino community where all participants, students, parents, and volunteers share a meal together. This symbolic act of gathering around a common table emphasized the importance of community and highlighted the bonds formed during the event.

Boodle fight with Yellow Team
Boodle fight with Blue Team
REPH Enabled volunteers eating lunch

Conclusion

Batino Elementary School Family Day is more than just an event; it is a celebration of unity, diversity, and an unwavering commitment to providing quality education for all.

Through creativity, inclusion and community support, the school demonstrates that every child, regardless of their ability, deserves to be celebrated and included.

Jaida C. Malonzo (School Administrator), Maritess Tarucan (SPTA President) and REPH Enabled volunteers supported by contributions from Reed Elsevier Philippines
Inclusive Learning Resource Center Bldg №5 of Batino Elementary School

The memories created on this special day are sure to echo within the walls of Batino Elementary School, fostering a sense of belonging and pride for years to come.

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Harris Rainier

UX Designer and Accessibility Specialist at LexisNexis | Founder of Bicol IT.org