The Marynette Launches ‘Amare et Servire’, Outreach Reaches Bustos Hospicio

“Amare et Servire” which translates to love and serve, was explained by Jeanne Andrew Valerio, the Associate Editor and host of The Marynette’s inaugural outreach program.

The outreach program, named “Amare et Servire,” was held at Hospicio de San Juan de Dios in Bustos, where care is provided for impoverished patients who are often abandoned or lack family support.

Prior to the outreach’s commencement, hosts Mr. Valerio and Chief Cartoonist Jairah Alexa Puno highlighted that the aim of Amare et Servire extends beyond enjoyment; it is about offering support and assistance.

The program officially began with a doxology performed by Claire Anne Marie Sarmiento, followed by an opening prayer led by Kristine Anne Balin, which sought God’s guidance, safety, and unity to bless the outreach initiative and all participants involved.

The Editor-in-Chief (E.I.C.), Ma. Flordanisa Torres, delivered the opening remarks, expressing her gratitude for two key reasons:

Firstly, she thanked God for the outreach finally taking place after multiple cancellations due to inclement weather. Secondly, she expressed appreciation to the participants for their warm welcome to The Marynette. In conclusion, she expressed hope that the outreach’s goal of serving and assisting others would be achieved.

Following the remarks, a dance energizer was led by Managing Editor (M.E.) Finance Staff Stacie Cantor and A.E. and Finance Staff Paul Manlangit, who performed “Better When I’m Dancin'” by Meghan Trainor with simple, easy-to-follow choreography.

Ms. Cantor and Mr. Manlangit also facilitated games that allowed everyone to participate. The first game, titled “Do Not Touch the Color,” required players to avoid the color mentioned by the host.

For the musical segment, Literary Editor Aimie Frances Alleli Sarmiento and Chief Photojournalist Jeyelor Jose Fundales took the stage. Ms. Sarmiento performed “Can’t Help Falling In Love” by Elvis Presley while Mr. Fundales accompanied her on guitar.

Following this, a meditation session was conducted by Ms. Puno and Mr. Valerio, aimed at calming thoughts and alleviating worries, lasting approximately 10 minutes.

The second round of games then began, featuring the lively Filipino game “Hep Hep Hooray,” where the selected player initiates with “Hep Hep” and the next participant responds with “Hooray” accompanied by gestures.

Before the event concluded, another dance energizer was introduced. Members of The Marynette not only led a performance but also engaged in the participants’ prepared dance.

The songs prepared by them included popular hits, specifically the remixes of “Hawak Mo Ang Beat” and “Bayle.”

Subsequently, the closing remarks were delivered by School Paper Adviser (S.P.A.) Christian Gonzales, who expressed gratitude to all participants.

To wrap up the program, a closing prayer led by Ms. Balin acknowledged the joy of serving and expressed hopes that the outreach would inspire compassion in others.

One of the staff members, Bro. Bernardo Engay, FM, shared deeper insights into the background of the residents, noting that many come from difficult circumstances. Some were abandoned by their families, others were previously homeless, while some struggled with personal challenges such as substance abuse or emotional distress.

He explained that the Hospicio de San Juan de Dios operates across several branches. In Bocaue, the facility houses around 59 male residents, the majority of whom were abandoned. Meanwhile, in Bustos, where the outreach was held, a smaller unit exclusively accommodates 11 female individuals, with nine reportedly lacking family support. 

Bro. Engay also shared that he is knowledgeable in sign language and has served in different branches of the hospicio, allowing him to assist a diverse group of residents, including those with special communication needs. Supporting the mission are volunteers, including individuals who dedicate their time to assist in daily care and activities.

Operating independently of government support, the institution relies solely on donations and faith-driven service to sustain its operations. In addition to providing residential care, the hospicio also conducts weekly gatherings for members of the deaf community across Luzon every Sunday, further extending its outreach beyond its residents.