FGS News
Catholic Focolare Visits Mabuhay Temple for Interreligious Exchange
Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple April 18, 2024 An interfaith spiritual exchange took place on April 14th at the Mabuhay Temple in Manila, Philippines, hosted by Fo Guang Shan, a Buddhist monastery. A delegation of around 50 representatives from the Catholic Focolare group in the Philippines, led by Asela, embarked on a journey of spiritual exploration alongside monks and believers from Fo Guang Shan. Members of the delegation from Italy, South Korea, mainland China, and the Philippines entered this tranquil sanctuary with their respective faiths and spiritual quests. Venerable Miao Jing, the abbess of the Mabuhay Temple, warmly welcomed their Catholic friends, expressing that Fo Guang Shan upholds the educational ideals of its founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, and is dedicated to establishing the University of Enlightenment in Tagathay, aspiring to open the gates of wisdom for more kindred spirits. Venerable Miao Jing mentioned that the Buddha's teachings originate from humanity, and the existence of Buddhism is for the happiness of humanity. Venerable Master Hsing Yun advocates the Four Givings, hoping that this warmth can spread and bring more goodness to the world. Priest Severo remarked that every person at Fo Guang Shan exudes a passionate smile, like a warm breeze soothing the anxieties in their hearts. Francis, a theology student from Guangzhou, shared his profound experience of visiting the Mabhay Temple during his study trip to the Philippines, deeply feeling the significance of Venerable Master Hsing Yun's advocacy of the Three Act of Goodness. He was also surprised to discover the striking similarities between Buddhist teachings and Catholic principles. Students present at the event eagerly posed insightful questions, inquiring about topics such as freeing oneself from desire and practicing the Noble Eightfold Path. BLIA members, Belinda and Venerable Zhi Rong, patiently addressed each query. Venerable Zhi Qin showcased the essence of Humanistic Buddhism through videos and elucidated Venerable Master Hsing Yun's unique perspective on Humanistic Buddhism. This interreligious dialogue not only purified the participants' souls but also fostered mutual understanding and respect among different faiths. To deepen the visitors' experience, Venerable Chueh Chi specially prepared a unique ritual. LED candles were provided for the members to light, symbolizing the illumination of hope. After lighting the candles, the members meditated in silence, then drew Dharma lots, hoping to find answers to life's questions in this serene place. The youth group, led by Beibei Tsai and former leader Wanji Gong, served as hosts and guides for this visit. The group also visited Grand Master Hsing Yun Art Gallery where they experienced the writing of the sutra, Grand Master calligraphy and his volume of 395 books. To end their visit, the group had their afternoon snack at Mabuhay teahouse where they got to experience Buddhist vegetarian food.
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.
Communis: Common ground and Coexistence in the Religious Response to the Climate Crisis
Brian V. March 28, 2024 In the wake of alarming reports and escalating environmental concerns, voices from various religious group are invited in a forum to address the pressing issue of climate change themed“Communis: Common ground and Coexistence in the Religious Response to the Climate Crisis.” Students from De La Salle High School with the strand of Humanities and social science invited Kit Valderrama and Rachelle Sy of Buddha’s Light International Association Young Adult Divisions (BLIA YAD) Manila Subdivision led by Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Mabuhay Temple Abbess Venerable Miao Jing to be one of the esteemed speakers, along with Ms. Lourdes Arsenio of Archdiocese of Manila and Ms. Ianelle Dalumbay a social science teacher and Buddhist practitioner. The Forum is centered on teachings and commitment taken to mitigate climate crisis. Over 80 students attended on March 21, 2024 in La Salle University Yunchengco Hall. Venerable Miao Jing highlighted the practices of FGS to maintain a harmonious balance among self, others and the world. Buddhists take action to mitigate climate change by taking vegetarian diet and plant trees. Programs such as Three Acts of Goodness for school children have introduced the concept of environmental and spiritual preservation to young Filipinos. Typhoon relief operations and charitable activities by BLIA and FGS shall always include the material, medical, humanitarian and spiritual aids for the holistic wellness of the victims. BLIA YAD Kit discussed Buddhist teachings such as compassion, interconnectedness, and impermanence as core principles in navigating the uncertainty and complexity of climate change. By acknowledging the impermanent nature of all phenomena, including our current ecological challenges, we can cultivate resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. Through a deep understanding of interdependence, we recognize that our individual actions, no matter how seemingly insignificant, are an integral part of the larger ecological whole, and that positive change is possible through collective effort and collaboration. BLIA YAD Rachelle talked about her growing up in a Buddhist family has moulded her to live simple and preserve resources. She has learnt from Venerable Master Hsing Yun “to be the parrot which saved the forest fire” as an uninvited friend rendering services. Afterwards, Ms. Lourdes discussed the Christian perspectives on the climate crisis, she emphasizes the principles of stewardship, solidarity, justice, and love. As stewards of God's creation, Christians are called to care for the Earth and all its inhabitants, working towards a more just and sustainable world for present and future generations. Furthermore, Ms. Ianelle Dalumbay a social science teacher and practicing Buddhist, dwell on her knowledge on the concept of Four Noble Truths and Eight-fold Paths encouraging youths to voice up and engage in the combating of climate crisis. When asked “what are practical ways they can do in addressing climate change?” all speakers advise to be mindful of our actions on daily activities. For example, turning off lights when it is not needed. Ms. Candice Aguila said that, “the diverse backgrounds of forum speakers have opened my perspective on caring for our environment. I have liked Three Acts of Goodness to keep my actions and thoughts kind towards our Mother Earth.” Ms Eufia Jasmine Lo the President and Head of the Steering Committee who led the organizing team appreciated the opportunity to reinforce the youth awareness and understanding on climate change. She is pleased to know that when we protect our environment, we respect all forms of life and sustain the wellbeing in all. Indeed, by prioritizing the well-being of all beings and recognizing our shared responsibility for the welfare of the planet, we can work towards collective solutions that address both the symptoms and the systemic drivers of the climate crisis.
FGS Mabuhay Temple and BLIA Organized Iftar Giving Ceremony
Luisa So April 24, 2024 The Holy month of Ramadhan ended last April 11, 2024. In celebration of Iftar Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple and Buddha’s Light International Association, Phils-Manila two, Hongkong, San Juan and Makati subchapters organized an Iftar giving ceremony at Mabuhay Temple on April 20 Saturday at 2pm. There are about 30 people which include the Venerables; BLIA Vice President, Kenny Sy; BLIA subchapter Presidents, Riva Sy, Luisa So, Si Peng Peng, and Jocson Ng; and friends from Interfaith community. The event started with prayers led by Venerable Ru Liang, followed by a Muslim prayer by Dr Diampuan. The Iftar giving beneficiaries are Barangay Maharlika in Taguig and Women’s Correctional in Mandaluyong, a total of 375 packs of food items like bread, cookies, noodles, and Milo drinks were prepared. And two wheelchairs were received by Dr Potre Dirampatan-Diampuan. Dr Diampuan, a member of the Uniharmony Partners of Manila; a Global Council Trustee at the United Religions Initiative and served as a Regional Coordinator for Southeast Asia and the Pacific. She works as a CEO of a Halal Certifying Body in the Philippines, delivered her speech: “To the members of the FGS and BLIA, your kindness has not gone unnoticed, It is constantly demonstrated through social, medical, and educational programs. You have given more than just food, you have brought hope and a reminder that despite our diverse paths in faith, we are all working together in the journey of life, supporting one another. The significance of this gesture is not merely a donation, it is a bridge built between hearts, a dialogue of love spoken in the universal language of empathy. “Thank you for your selfless act of giving and for your commitment to interfaith harmony. Thank you for your thoughtful and impactful gesture. May your organization continue to be blessed with abundance and capacity to spread joy and support to all corners of our society.” Professor Bong Baybado, of UST Religious Studies and also the convenor of Uniharmony Partners, Manila was also present to receive two wheelchairs for the Catholic community. BLIA VP Kenny Sy remarked, “Venerable Master Hsing Yun promotes oneness and co-existence, he said we are family living in the same human world. In this auspicious day of Iftar, we practice Venerable Master’s Four Givings, to give other confidence, joy, hope and convenience. We are turning over some goods to our Muslim brothers and sisters, may everyone who receive and contribute the items be filled with joy of giving and receiving.” The ceremony ended with singing of “We are family” and lights offering to the Buddha by the guests.
Members of the Siddhartha Musical cast Take Refuge and Receive Precepts
Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple May 15, 2024 On April 22nd, at the Manila Mabuhay Temple of Fo Guang Shan in the Philippines, a Three Refuges and Five Precepts ceremony was held, attended by all 24 staff and actors of the Siddhartha Musical. The Philippines being a predominantly Catholic country, this ceremony was not only an exchange between Buddhists and artists but also a convergence of hearts and beliefs. Actor Benjie shared his feelings after accepting the Three Refuges and Five Precepts during the ceremony. He expressed joy in this fresh start, stating that portraying the role of the Buddha gave him special insights, deepening his understanding of life and faith. Director Junrey shared his journey of developing an interest in Buddhism through the Siddhartha Musical. He mentioned that years of association with Fo Guang Shan enabled him to gain a deeper understanding of Buddhist teachings, especially being profoundly influenced by the teachings of Fo Guang Shan's founding master, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, which purified and elevated his spirit. Abbess Venerable Miao Jing encouraged everyone to strive for the Three Acts of Goodness after receiving the Five Precepts— Do Good Deeds, Speak Good Words, and Think Good Thought. This, she emphasized, is a demonstration of responsibility towards oneself and others, and a vivid interpretation of Buddhist values. Venerable Yung Guang, the Head Abbess of Fo Guang Shan in the Philippines, inspired contemplation on life and value through a philosophical fable. Each person is likened to different materials, each possessing unique value and utility. Some are like diamonds, inherently valuable, yet without proper utilization, their brilliance remains unseen; others are like stones, seemingly ordinary but able to wield tremendous influence in certain circumstances. Therefore, having the aspiration and taking practical action are the keys to endowing life with true value. "The holding of this ceremony is not only an affirmation of Buddhist faith but also a beautiful revelation of artistic creation and personal growth. Let us together respect life, cherish every moment, and let our spirits shine brighter in the light of faith," concluded Head Abbess Venerable Yung Guang.
Humanistic Buddhism Promotion in Cebu, Philippines
Venerable Miao Jing May 15, 2024 As part of the promotion of Humanistic Buddhism in the Philippines, Venerable Miao Guang, the Deputy Chancellor of the Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Institute of Humanistic Buddhism Taiwan came to Cebu for a momentous event that highlights three different activities. A lecture on death and dying; a generous book donation of the works of Venerable Master Hsing Yun; and the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing between the Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism (IHB) through the Humanistic Buddhism Center Philippines and the University of San Carlos (USC) through the Department of Philosophy. The event took place in the University of San Carlos Talamban Campus on April 20, 2024 at the SAFAD Theater. The hybrid event was live-streamed online to account to the total attendance of almost 400 participants. The USC Fr. President Francisco Estepa,PhD SVD gave the commitment to fostering a well rounded understanding and hosting the lecture of respected Buddhist Scholar, Ven. Miao Guang. The Buddhist tradition offers a rich philosophical and spiritual tradition to framework the contemplating death not with dread but with acceptance and wisdom. This lecture is a valuable opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of impermanence and its role in shaping a meaningful life, explore Buddhist philosophy on suffering and how to alleviate it, and learn practices for cultivating compassion and equanimity in the face of mortality. In her lecture entitled A Matter of Life and Death from the Buddhist Perspective she asked the students to consider the prospect of death as an opportunity to live a good life. She probed questions like, what are we in this life for? Are we scared of death? What legacy do we leave behind? Her lecture is relevant because she presented on the Buddhist views of suffering, non-attachment, and re-birth in a manner that was personal and not technical that made it easily relatable to the general audience. Such is the vision of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, to bring to light the core teachings of the Buddha in a manner that is understandable, applicable, and meaningful. The Book donation, meanwhile, was a collection of the works of Venerable Master Hsing Yun as well as the Encyclopedia of Buddhist Arts. It was received by the Chair of the Department of Philosophy, Dr. Ruby Suazo and the Director of Libraries. All the books will be sent to the Learning Resource Center where all the students will have access to the wisdom of Humanistic Buddhism. Finally, the MOU shall prompt faculty exchanges, in the form of lectures, forums, and round table discussions as well as researches by faculty and graduate students who wish to learn more about humanistic Buddhism. Venerable Abbess Miao Jing of FGS Mabuhay Temple and Venerable You Hui of FGS Chu Un Temple are active in international religious dialogues, exchanges and partnerships. The collaborative effort is based on open-mindedness, interactive relations and mutual respect transcending boundaries to achieve harmony, peace and love-kindness. The metaphor of a colorful garden with green plants has described the concept of co-existence and oneness in humankind. It was a fruitful event with deep reflections about life delivered eloquently by the speaker. It marked a good start for future collaborations between the IHB and USC.
Distinguished members of society visited Guang Ming University, expressing their full commitment to supporting the educational endeavors
Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple April 16, 2024 Architect Gilbert Yu and his wife Agustina Yu deeply admire Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founding patriarch of Fo Guang Shan. Earlier, they had exchanged ideas on temple architecture design with the Philippines' head Abbess, Venerable Yong Guang. On April 5th, they invited 11 distinguished individuals from society to visit Guang Ming University. Accompanied by Ven. Miao Jing the abbess of the Mabuhay Temple in the Philippines, and Ven. Zhi Qin, Maru Percela, the Director of Student Affairs, and Professor Katte Sabate warmly welcomed and introduced them. Architect Gilbert Yu praised the world-class facilities of the sports hall and the vibrant spatial planning of the buildings. The 91-year-old Mrs Evelyn Ang was deeply moved while listening to students singing "Buddhism Depends on Me." The couple from the automotive industry, Mr and Mrs Joaquin and Lucy Sy, were amazed by the students' adherence to vegetarianism and language taboos, deeply impressed by the implementation of life education. Moved by the experience, Gilbert Yu pledged full support for the Venerable Master's benevolent education project and the mission of Fo Guang Shan education. Grateful for the transformation of lives through education by the Venerable Master and Fo Guang Shan, they aim to create a positive learning environment that instills gratitude and moral integrity in Filipino youth, molding them into future successful individuals. Gilbert Yu, former president of the Filipino-Chinese Stage Arts Association, playwright, and director, wrote and staged plays depicting the struggles of Chinese immigrants in the Philippines to support newcomers. Among them was the meaningful production "Blessings of Many Children." The accompanying VIPs were mostly renowned figures in the entertainment industry, praising Venerable Master Hsing Yun's efforts in nurturing young artists. Joshua de Puyart, captain of the third-grade basketball team, expressed gratitude for the scholarships provided by the Venerable Master and the support of the guests and BLIA members. He said, "During the pandemic when I graduated from high school, my family couldn't afford to send me to college. My brother took me as an apprentice, earning only 200 pesos a day." When he felt lost, Guang Ming College gave him a future. He learns every day with gratitude and treats others with kindness. "Buddha bless! Last year, I represented the school and went to Taiwan and Japan, connecting with the world. The Venerable Master told us to be rooted in the Philippines but also to look to the world." Accompanying the visit were Kathy Uy, the president of the Buddha’s Light International Association of Philippines, and Zheng Lishuang, the choir leader of Mabuhay Temple.
Philippine GMC Board Trustees Meeting, Working Towards New Milestones
Venerable Zhipu and Lourdes Wang April 19, 2024 On April 16, Guang Ming College (GMC) conducted a board trustees meeting at the Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple in the Philippines. The board trustees’ members expressed their concern about the progress of GMC and discussed ways to achieve new milestones collaboratively. Dr. Michael Tan, the President of GMC, led the Vice President and his team in presenting their achievement report for the school year 2023. This impressive achievement report will be given to the respected venerables supporting the school in pursuing its goals. The BLIA members received this performance report due to everyone's trust and encouragement. The achievement would not have been possible without Venerable Master Hsing Yun's vision and compassion to establish schools in the Philippines. Venerable Yung Guang, the Head Abbess of Fo Guang Shan in the Philippines, expressed her appreciation for everyone who worked together to fulfill the Venerable Master's vows. We are delighted that the school has been completed. We want to thank the board members who care about Fo Guang Shan’s education and have been watching Fo Guang Shan's growth and GMC's growth. We would also like to thank President Dr. Michael Tan for moving to Tagaytay. Dr. Alfonso Uy, a member of the GMC board of trustees, shared that he rose from poverty to become a self-made entrepreneur. He previously served as a director at the University of Central Philippines in Iloilo and fully supports the Venerable Master's initiative to establish schools to combat poverty. The church aided Dr. Uy's path to success, and he is committed to contributing both his time and resources to GMC. He cares deeply about the school's growth and the future of its students. Dr. Michael Lao, who serves as the director of the BLIA Headquarters and Chairman of the Fo Guang Shan Educational Fund in the Philippines, expressed his sadness at the news of the Venerable Master's passing. He urged BLIA members to strengthen their support for education and make the Venerable Master’s vows their own. Dr. Lao also expressed his eagerness for future meetings and exchanges, believing that the more we learn, the more we can help the college. Dr. Michael Tan, the President of GMC, expressed his gratitude to the Venerable Master for his contributions to education in the Philippines. The college's founding marked the beginning of a transformation in education, bringing hope for a better future. Since its establishment, the Star and Cloud Art Center have been completed. In 2024, we plan to upgrade the dormitory, library, and office equipment. Currently, there are 132 students enrolled in the academic year. The college strives to improve its teaching system, not only in terms of academic education but also moral education. For instance, Dikachi, an African sports science student, practices the Three Acts of Goodness as a social worker after class to serve the public and takes culture, art, and technology courses as a minor subject. GMC offers a wide range of minor majors to choose from and many international exchange opportunities. The basketball, cheerleading, and track and field teams have recently achieved numerous victories. GMC values compassion, kindness, and the Three Acts of Goodness and encourages its students to organize children's activities. In this case, the teachers, students, parents, and community can grow and learn in a Buddhist educational environment. We thank the Venerable Master for establishing five Fo Guang Shan University Consortium across four countries. It is an honor that GMC is located in the Philippines, providing devotees with the opportunity to cultivate blessings and wisdom. The 2023 achievement report presented by GMC belongs to everyone. All outstanding performances are the glory of all sponsors and supporters. We hope 2024 everyone will continue to achieve new milestones together.
The Teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun: His Works and Words
Marilyn Lopega March 19, 2024 A Dharma Talk given by Venerable Jue Ju, who is the superintendent of the Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Founder’s Hall, was held on March 15, 2024 at Guang Ming College (GMC) in Tagaytay, Philippines. It is entitled “The Teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun: His Works and Words”. About 160 faculty, staff and scholars attended, together with Venerable Abbess Miao Jing of FGS Mabuhay Temple, Venerable Zhi Qin, the President Luisa So, Dharma Sister Belinda Tantoco and Linda Oliva of Buddha’s Light International Association Hong Kong Sub-Chapter. The President of GMC Dr. Michael Tan remarked that when Venerable Jue Ju told the stories of Venerable Master Hsing Yun our Founder, we would get to know him and found our root in Humanistic Buddhism. In the closing remarks, Venerable Miao Jing encouraged all to uphold the practice of Three Acts of Goodness through unconditional and universal giving in every daily doing. Ven Jue Ju explained that if we want to know Master Hsing Yun, we have to know his personality. What better way to know him is through his works, and his words (teachings). These are the two main human characteristics that emphasized to be developed through the acts of giving joy, hope and convenience to other people. First, we have to become uninvited friends. Venerable Master Hsing Yun means that if there is ever a need of any kind, whether material or services, we should be ready to give our services or talent or whatever we can give to fulfill the needs. There should always be a willingness to give and to serve without conditions. Just like Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the power of giving is always in his heart, always becoming an uninvited friend in every opportunity that comes his way. Second, is the spirit of being number two. This means that we put others as the number one, and we come only second to them. We put other people who help us, who nourish us, who became part of who we are as the number one. Therefore, we think of their convenience, joy, comfort ahead of ours. They are the first consideration in everything that we do, our convenience only comes second to theirs. And we should always show this with a big heart. The power of giving is always in the heart. Venerable Master Hsing Yun exemplified the two important characteristics throughout his life. This was witnessed especially when he was already old and having many health issues. Since he gave unconditionally to all without exceptions, he continued to work hard in his calligraphy even when he could no longer see and experiencing a lot of pain when writing. He did this to raise funds for the colleges and universities he promised to establish and support. Even if they took all of what he had, he never wavered in his vow to support these schools so that the scholars can continue their education. These all he accomplished, as he said, to give value to his life, be of benefit to others, and help society, and bring more compassion to the world. Now that he is a star in the sky, we will still continue to learn from him. We start with small things until given more responsibility, we can do greater things that bring joy, provide convenience and develop confidence to others. A day before the Dharma Talk, a vegetarian cooking lesson was demonstrated by Venerable Jue Ju to the students and staff of GMC. Chef Neil has appreciated her mindfulness and calmness in cooking five dishes over three stoves within a tight timeframe. Feedbacks about the Dharma Talk from: Ms. Joei Eborde, 2nd year Theatre Major, teared herself when she learnt more about Venerable Master Hsing Yun. She felt very lucky to be chosen as a scholar of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Every piece about the life of Venerable Master Hsing Yun is very precious teaching and practice to her. Mr. Joshua de Puyart, 3rd year Basketball athlete scholar, is grateful for Venerable Jue Ju’s Dharma Talk. He is able to learn about the determination, endurance and persistence in Venerable Master Hsing Yun. He is motivated and realizes how Venerable Master Hsing Yun overcome physical illness and limitation. He is looking forward to learning more about Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s sport life in the upcoming BLIA Cup in Taiwan. Student Affairs Director Prof. Maru Percela said that she is grateful to Venerable Jue Ju for coming to inspire the scholars. The stories of Venerable Master Hsing Yun helped the students to keep him alive in the hearts. She hopes that the students will pay back the Founder’s noble vision by studying eagerly and practice Three Acts of Goodness in their everyday activities.
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.
