FGS News
Engage in the Buddha's Light International Association's Green Initiative: Planting Seeds of Love on Earth Day
Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple April 25, 2024 In alignment with Earth Day, the Buddha's Light International Association Philippines – Bacolod Chapter conducted a tree-planting extravaganza, injecting new vitality into environmental conservation. Spearheaded by English Secretary Cora, the project liaised with the Bacolod City Government and Talisay Government, garnering support for tree sapling sponsorship and planting sites. On April 19th, they visited the Bacolod Department of Agriculture to receive the prepared saplings. On April 21st, led by Venerable Zhi Rong from Yuan Thong Temple, President Margarate Cordova, Supervisor Rosita Gochangco, Bacolod Youth Volunteer Amity Group, Bacolod Chapter Youth Group Rheya and Ciara, along with over twenty enthusiastic participants from the Yuan Thong Temple's SanHao Group including teachers Rutha and Virnie, journeyed to the mountainous region of Talisay, commencing this green initiative. Despite the scorching weather, participants' hearts blazed with enthusiasm as they hand in hand planted saplings on the mountainside. Walking upon the earth, surrounded by nature, they felt the beauty and sanctity of life. These saplings not only symbolize greenery but also embody a commitment to love and protect the Earth. Guided by Talisay personnel, they found the most suitable locations, gently planting each tree into the soil. The trees planted this time are hardwood, which will grow into a part of the forest, enriching the land in the future. This tree-planting event saw the planting of over a hundred trees. It was not merely an action but also an embodiment of giving back to nature and expressing love for the Earth. Special thanks to Atty. BEDRIO from the Department of Agriculture for their tremendous assistance in ensuring the smooth progress of this event. Let us join hands and work together to protect our home, filling the Earth with greenery for sustainable prosperity! Virnie mentioned it was their first time participating in tree planting, and it was very meaningful to breathe fresh air on the mountain while exercising. Rosita Gochangco expressed that despite mobility limitations, being able to participate to the best of their ability and experience various aspects of the Buddha's Light International Association and Fo Guang Shan very fulfilling.
Students Experience Buddha's Birthday Bathing Ritual: A Journey to Yuan Thong Temple
Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple May 27, 2024 On May 9th, 80 students from the 11th and 12th grades of St. Sebastian International School in Bacolod, accompanied by 10 teachers, totaling 90 individuals, embarked on a trip to Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple. Yuan Thong Temple, in celebration of Buddha's birthday in May, had received letters of visitation from several schools. Starting from the first day of the lunar April, they initiated the bathing of the Buddha ritual. This allowed all visiting teachers and students to participate in this special event. Under the guidance of volunteer Cora, students were introduced to the meditation hall and the history of Yuan Thong Temple, and were led to experience the bathing of the Buddha ritual. Venerable Zhi Rong shared the anecdotes of bathing the Buddha, reminding everyone that the Buddha does not need us to bathe him, but rather our minds need purification at this moment to resonate with the Buddha's heart. She also mentioned the Three Act of Goodness Campus Project, a long-term collaboration between the Philippines' Fo Guang Shan and the Department of Education Philippines, aimed at promoting good deeds, good words, and good thoughts to make the world a better place. Additionally, she shared the meanings behind the lotus hand gesture and the Three Act of Goodness hand gesture. After bathing the Buddha, students lined up to draw dharma words. Each person received a handmade lotus paper fold from the temple's resident as a memento of this experience. Moreover, students enjoyed various “Transparence” lotus exhibited at the temple. Tour leader Novem mentioned that although he is a Christian, experiencing different religious beliefs is still important for students. He found it particularly special to coincide with Buddha's birthday and experience bathing the Buddha, which he believes contributes significantly to students' moral development. Finally, Novem, on behalf of the school, presented a letter of thanks to Yuan Thong Temple, which was accepted by Venerable Zhi Rong.
Transcendence: Lotus Art Exhibition" Opens at Yuan Thong Temple, Philippines – 14 Artists Depict the Purity of the Lotus
Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple April 25, 2024 Yuan Thong Temple, a branch of Fo Guang Shan in Bacolod City, Philippines, hosted the "Transcendence: Lotus Art Exhibition," which opened with great splendor on the afternoon of April 20th. This exhibition featured the works of 14 local artists, including dedicated volunteers such as Ryan and Pneuma. The opening ceremony attracted over 20 artists and more than 20 members of the Fo Guang community. Venerable Zhi Rong presided over a blessing ceremony to inaugurate the event, offering blessings to all participating artists. Host and artist Pneuma introduced each exhibiting artist and explained the background and significance of the event. As one of the initiators of the event, Pneuma expressed great satisfaction in joining such a meaningful endeavor, citing the benefits many children have derived from participating in Yuan Thong Temple's art courses. Ryan shared his motivation for joining the volunteer team, stating that the educational philosophy of Fo Guang Shan aligns with his own values of altruism and helping others. Rosita Gochangco, representing the Bacolod Chapter, extended a warm welcome on behalf of the association, expressing gratitude to the artists for their active participation. Venerable Zhi Rong elucidated the symbolic significance of the lotus flower, emphasizing its representation of the purification of the mind and the purity of practitioners. Finally, all the artists participated in a lamp-offering ceremony, symbolizing the arrival of hope and light. Venerable Zhi Rong presented tokens of appreciation to all the artists on behalf of the temple, wishing them unwavering hearts and peaceful coexistence. Among the artists, Tibo Deocades' works combined oil painting with relief sculpture. His pieces aimed to depict how carp thrive amidst mud without becoming tainted, showcasing their allure through the lotus flower. Laden with profound symbolism, his works transport viewers into realms of contemplation. After touring the exhibition, Lyra Ong was deeply moved. She remarked that many of the artworks exuded an atmosphere of harmony, compassion, and love. Particularly striking was a painting depicting a girl holding a lotus flower in the water, evoking a serene and tranquil environment that resonated with inner peace and tranquility.
Fo Guang Shan's gift of the book "Clouds and Water " inspires TAG Schools in the Philippines to explore Venerable Master Hsing Yun's educational philosophy
Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple May 20, 2024 Under the leadership of Head Abbess Venerable Yung Guang, the Philippine Fo Guang Shan currently operates three hundred Good Education Schools. Earlier this year, TAG Schools in the Negros Occidental region expressed a desire for a deeper understanding and promotion of the background of Fo Guang Shan's founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Fo Guang Shan actively advocates for educational ideals and development, hoping that all teachers and students in TAG Schools can gain a profound understanding of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, comprehend why he is so devoted and actively supportive of educational development, and understand the impact of Venerable Master Hsing Yun's Three Act of Goodness philosophy on society as a whole. Abbess venerable Miao Jing and Superintendent venerable Chueh Lin specially planned to gift each TAG School with a copy of "Clouds and Water ". Representing Fo Guang Shan, Venerable Zhi Rong from Yuan Tong Temple presented these books, which were received by representatives of the TAG Schools from the education bureaus of various cities in Negros Occidental. This initiative took place from early April to April 29th, benefiting 12 cities and 175 schools in the Negros Occidental region, with a total of 187 copies of "Clouds and Water " distributed. Dr. Josette, the Good Education School Coordinator for the Sagay Education Bureau, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Fo Guang Shan for promoting the Three Acts of Goodness Education Campus Project. Since participating in the project, the lives of teachers and students in elementary and secondary schools throughout the city of Sagay have changed. Schools in San Carlos City were delighted to receive the book "Clouds and Water ." Joven expressed that the Good Education Project has changed local students, and they should delve deeper into the Humanistic Buddhist philosophy of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, who has changed their lives, and reflect on how to learn attitudes and growth in life from a great figure.
Childcare Center Teachers and Students Visit Yuan Tong Temple for Experiential Learning Beyond Classroom
Fo Guang Shan Yuan Tong Temple April 9, 2024 On April 4th, Barangay Zone 3 Child Development Center in Talisay City embarked on a remarkable journey, with nearly 110 teachers, students, and parents setting foot together on a trip to Fo Guang Shan Yuan Tong Temple. This visit was not just a trip, but an adventure rich in growth, learning, and emotional experiences. Led by teacher Brenda, the children stepped out of the classroom to engage in experiential learning, delving deeper into understanding how to become better individuals. Venerable Zhi Rong shared lively and interesting stories about Guan Yin Bodhisattva, guiding the children to recite the Three Acts of Goodness: Do Good Deeds, Speak Good words, and Think Good Thoughts. Throughout the process, the children also learned the hand gesture of the lotus flower, symbolizing purity of the mind. In the interactive sessions, children were encouraged to voice their thoughts and understanding about doing good deeds and speaking kind words. They shared their perspectives, demonstrating a profound understanding of kindness and friendliness, as well as exploring and affirming the beauty of human values. With the assistance of volunteer Jennifer, Venerable Zhi Rong explained to the children in Filipino, making the communication smoother and more natural. The visit allowed each child to deeply feel the power of kindness and goodness, while also reinforcing their awareness of positive behavior and warm language. Yuan Tong Temple not only holds significant educational value but also serves as an ideal place for children to visit.
TAG Grants School Visits
Kit Brian Valderrama May 30, 2024 On May 10, 2024, the Three Acts of Goodness facilitator led by Venerable Miao Jing, Director of TAG project with TAG Schools Program Screening Committee Lourdes Wang, Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA)Pasay President, Dharma Brother Nelson Yao, FGS Education Benefactor, Dharma Sister Sansan Yao, Guang Ming College graduate, Kit Brian Valderrama and Temple Staff, Dharma Sister Flordeluna Apaalisbo went to Pampanga region to visit TAG practices in Laoc Pao Elementary School and Malino National High School in Pampanga region. The purpose of the visit is to monitor the implementation of the projects of said schools. In the heartwarming display of community spirit and empathy, TAG facilitators aimed to see first hand the instilled values of the implemented projects propose by each school towards students and see how students practices their project not only in school but also how they practice it at home. Two-hour drive from mabuhay Temple the team had first arrived at SDO Pampanga to visit DepEd partners to express gratitude by helping TAG be implemented in their region. Lead by Ms. Dorie Soliman, TAG coordinator Pampanga division and Mr. George Jose Maria C. Guilas, senior Education Program Specialist-Research and all their subordinates had welcomed the team with their warmth smiles. SDO visit was also to share Buddha bathing ceremony, TAG new projects and events, also introducing Guang Ming College scholarship grants. On that note, exchange of gratitude from TAG facilitators and SDO Pampanga is a success and to quote Mr. George Jose Maria C. Guilas, senior Education Program Specialist-Research message “Thank you for sharing with us your blessings of what is to be a human in the life of Buddhism and helping our school to know and practice Three Acts of Goodness.” After the visit in SDO Pampanga a forty minutes’ drive to Laoc Pao elementary Schools was made to visit their TAG project on garbage segregations. TAG facilitators with the help of Ellaine Martin Manuel, TAG coordinator in the school was able to know the importance of having the grants to supports their projects and to help students at a young age to know and understand great values by doing good, speaking good, and thinking good. Two of the students expresses their gratitude and share how the project help not only them but also help the people around them by doing garbage segregation. At a young age she knows that these will help our environment fight towards global warming. Furthermore, after the first school visit TAG coordinators then went to Malino National high School to introduce Buddha Bathing to the faculties lead by their principal, Ms. Dolores I. Pelayo. Importantly monitor and see their TAG projects implemented through years of practicing it. TAG team was greeted by the student singing a welcoming song and classroom visits was then made possible by Irene Perez, TAG coordinator of the school. At the visit several projects were introduce and their plans towards maintaining each of their projects. During these visits, students engage in interactive sessions where they learn about the significance of the Three Acts of Goodness and how they can translate these principles into tangible actions.
Humanistic Buddhism Forum on Dialogue and Linkages
Loisa Soh April 23, 2024 Philippine Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple and Buddha’s Light International Association, Phils- Pasig, San Juan sub-chapters and Young Adult Division in collaboration with Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism and Humanistic Buddhism Center, Philippines hosted the “Humanistic Buddhism On Dialogue and Linkages” at Mabuhay Temple Prajna Hall. The event attracted 200 participants from BLIA members, Educators, Business groups, students and Interfaith friends. Venerable Miao Guang, the personal English Interpreter of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, Deputy Chancellor of Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism, Associate Professor in the Department of Religious Studies at Nanhua University, and Director of Fo Guang Directory of Buddhism English Translation Project. Mabuhay Temple Abbes Venerable Miao Jing; Trainer of Trainers, Dr. Cecilia Manikan, Dr. Maje Purino, Philosophy Professor of the University of San Carlos; and BLIA President Kathy Lim Uy are also in the panel to share insights and exchanging ideas that can lead to meaningful advancement of humanistic practice in the human world. Ven Miao Guang's speech delved into the profound legacy of Ven Master Hsing Yun, showcasing his impact through Education, Arts, and Culture within the Buddhist context. The speech also explored Buddhism's dynamic relationship with literature, arts, new media, interfaith dialogue, and its role in fostering racial harmony. Looking forward to 2024, there is a strong emphasis on integrating Buddhism in the digital age, ensuring its relevance and accessibility while continuing to promote the teachings of dharma globally. Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple Abbess, Venerable Miao Jing, on the other hand, shared the growing success of the Three Acts of Goodness Program in DepEd Schools around the Philippines. Since TAG Program was launched in 2016, there are currently around 600 DepEd Schools practicing TAG through different school programs, one of the benefits of the TAG program is helping promote Anti-Bullying Advocacy. The program granted 300 schools around the Philippines last 2023, and aims to increase the number of TAG School Grants for this year to a total of 350 schools. Dr. Cecilia Manikan, known as the Trainer of trainers, presented a video presentation of the Whole Brain and Mindfulness Training where she conducted training sessions in various school divisions across the Philippines. The Whole Brain and Mindfulness Training program is firmly grounded in the principles of Humanistic Buddhism, with a strong emphasis on mindfulness and the Three Acts of Goodness. Through the integration of these principles into educational training, Dr. Manikan's program seeks to nurture personal growth, empathy, and positive social interactions within educators and students, underscoring the transformative impact of Humanistic Buddhist philosophy in fostering comprehensive well-being and ethical engagement in both educational settings and broader society. Dr. Maje Purino shared that she is currently spearheading research, academic studies, and linkages with Humanistic Buddhism. She discussed possible researches related to Humanistic Buddhism such as Humanistic Buddhism as a modernization of the Chinese Mahayana Buddhism, Humanistic Buddhism; Theory and Practice, Humanistic Buddhism in the Philippines, Humanistic Buddhism as a Humanistic Buddhism on Artificial Intelligence, Humanistic Buddhism on Education, etc. BLIA President Kathy Lim Uy discussed the success of promoting Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s Three Acts of Goodness and Four (4) Givings as exemplified in the construction of Guang Ming College for the future of the young Filipinos. She continued to share that Venerable Master Hsing Yun has changed the lives of many people, through his efforts, Siddhartha the Musical was formed to perform the life of Sakyamuni Buddha, in 17 years, they have performed more than 200 shows locally and internationally, they are also set to go on South African tour this May. Nelson Guevarra, PG Flex Group President and board member of the Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, commended the GMC Basketball team, a rookie in the field of basketball and already performing well, he reiterated the importance of sports in lessening teenage problems related to too much of social media exposure. Dr. Marjorie Evasco, a known poet and writer, professor emeritus, and Palanca Awardee, she showed appreciation to the panel, especially to Dr. Purino’s sharing, as an academician, she reiterated the importance of Humanistic Buddhism in the Academy.
Dharma talk by Ven. Miao Guang in Guang Ming College
Lourdes April 25, 2024 On April 17, 2024, the Deputy Chancellor of Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Institute of Humanistic Buddhism, Venerable Miao Guang, made her inaugural lecture in Guang Ming College (GMC) Tagaytay entitled “Remembering the Founder: Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s Teaching through His Speech and Self-Examples.” It was attended by over 150 participants of GMC faculty and students, as well as FGS Mabuhay Temple Venerable Abbess Miao Jing, Venerable Zhi Qin, BLIA Philippines President Kathy Lim, Secretary Marlene Lao and Deputy Secretary Meeling Sze. GMC Student Affairs and International Linkages Director Prof. Maru Bautista welcomed Venerable Miao Guang who is committed to the spread of Humanistic Buddhism globally, has become an inspiration to GMC scholars and faculty to enhance the mission in developing compassionate leaders both grounded in their local realities and knowledgeable about global issues. Venerable Miao Jing gave the closing remarks as she acknowledged the needs to know and understand GMC Founder on youth education, sports and arts through Humanistic Buddhism. Venerable Miao Guang’s presence should farther the academic and cultural opportunities for Filipino scholars. Gail Matan, a third year Buddhist studies major is deeply moved by the person of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. She expressed that his teachings encourage her to be socially responsible especially with the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how to engage with this technology. She also mentioned that she is currently writing her thesis on AI and Humanistic Buddhism towards social responsibility and ethical mindfulness while engaging with technology. Red Mike Cinco, also a third year Buddhist Studies major shares his experience about being the bread winner of the family. He reflects on his life four years ago when he had no means of support for studies and yet Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s scholarship allowed him to continue studying and working part time to earn for his family. He was teary eyed and was touched greatly by the compassionate heart of the Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Sophia a dance major had learned and was moved by the compassionate heart of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. She expressed her wholehearted gratitude about being a scholar of GMC.
Siddhartha Musical Triumphs at the Cebu Guang Ming College Theater, Igniting a Buddhist Artistic Wave
Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple May 17, 2024 The Cebu Guang Ming College Theater came alive on the evening of April 18th, as a stirring musical about Prince Siddhartha filled the venue with emotions and joy. Dignitaries, including the Philippines' Fo Guang Shan Head Abbess Ven. Yung Guang, Ven. Miao Guang and Abbess Ven. Miao Jing, graced the occasion, adding prestige to the event. The preview in the evening was warmly welcomed by friends and family, with nearly a hundred people gathering to witness this masterfully crafted performance. The actors' exceptional skills and heartfelt performances kept the audience laughing and applauding continuously, creating a lively and heartwarming atmosphere. The success of this musical is not only a significant milestone in the history of Buddhism in the Philippines but also marks the first attempt to carry Filipino Buddhist cultural artistry to South Africa. The blessings and applause from the audience seemed to be the best testimony to the performance and the greatest encouragement to everyone involved. In the serene surroundings of the Cebu Chu Un Temple, the nights are always filled with melodious songs, where a group of art enthusiasts often gather to practice, discuss, and create, igniting brilliant sparks of artistry in this peaceful land. In this performance, Benjie's portrayal of the role of Buddha has a history of 17 years, his unwavering meditation skills are admirable. Director Junrey's meticulous scripting and guidance have made the entire performance even more captivating and moving. It's worth mentioning that the success and support of this endeavor stem from everyone's love and dedication to art, as well as their respect and inheritance of Buddhist culture. The success of this musical not only enriches the cultural life of the Cebu Guang Ming College but also injects new vitality into Filipino Buddhist artistry, believing it will continue to stir up a wave of Buddhist artistry, influencing and touching the hearts of more people.
Tourism Students Visit Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple for Profound Cultural Educational Journey
Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple June 3, 2024 On May 17th, nearly 200 freshmen and juniors from the Tourism Department of State University of Northern Negros in Sagay City embarked on a visit to the Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple in the city of Bacolod, Philippines. This visit was part of their specialized practical experience course, led by the school teacher Ellen, with the Dean Richel expressing delight at the realization of this cultural educational trip, emphasizing that field visits provide deeper insights than textbook learning. Volunteers from the Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple, Lyra Ong, Nena King, and Cora, assisted in the visit. Cora introduced the students to the history of the temple, its meditation hall, a brief overview of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, and the situation of the Guang Ming College of the Philippines, Tagatay. Venerable Zhi Rong explained the collaboration between Fo Guang Shan in the Philippines and the Philippine Department of Education in the TAG Project, advocating the "Three Act of Goodsness Movement" – Do Good Deeds, Speak Good Words, and Think Good Thoughts. She emphasized the universal law of cause and effect, stating "as you sow, so shall you reap." The students resonated with this concept, acknowledging that their attitudes influence their surroundings. Venerable Zhi Rong also discussed the significance of the ceremonial bath, emphasizing that it serves as both a commemoration and a reminder, with the Buddha not needing bathing, but rather our hearts needing purification to resonate with the Buddha's teachings. Guided by volunteers, the students participated in the bathing ceremony and pledged to uphold the "Three Act of Goodness," aspiring to be compassionate, kind, and noble individuals, spreading joy to themselves and others. They also crafted handmade lotus flowers as souvenirs from their visit to the temple. Student John drew a Dharma word fortune stick, feeling a connection between his wishes and the outcome. Venerable Zhi Rong explained the symbolism of the lotus flower gesture, representing purity and openness, using one's pure and open heart to show respect to others. Finally, the students toured a “Transcendence” lotus flower art exhibition, appreciating the various emotions expressed by the artists through different themes of lotus paintings. School staff Angel and Steffi expressed great satisfaction with the visit, learning about the "Three Act of Goodness" and experiencing the beauty of religious exchange. This visit not only broadened the students' horizons but also deepened their understanding of Buddhist culture. Through field visits and participation in activities, the students gained a deeper understanding of the concepts of cause and effect and the "Three Acts of Goodness Movement," pledging to practice these in their daily lives to contribute positively to society. Dean Richel expressed hope for more similar activities in the future, allowing students to gain valuable experiences and insights.
