RDL-CLEAR outlines various activities in Romblon/Philippines

From May to July, 2003, RDL-CLEAR sponsored various activities in different locations in Romblon. First are the medical and dental missions in the three islands of Sibale (April), Simara (May) and Banton (June). These medical missions were carried out successfully due to the effective partnership between RDL-CLEAR, NGOs and local government units. A consensus among the local Philippine chapter and upon the suggestion of the Malipayon Hospital Medical Team is to consider Carabao Island (San Jose) as the next medical mission venue.

The organization also sponsored the PETA (Philippine Educational Theatre Association of the Philippines) drama/theatre workshops in San Fernando and Odiongan in May. It was suggested that a much bigger PETA workshop should be planned and held next year. The diversity of the Odiongan workshop created so much interest among the participants especially those from San Agustin and Unhan-speaking towns.

In Banton, RDL-CLEAR initiated a mahogany tree planting at Rainbow Park. It also conducted an abbreviated writers' workshop (a one day activity on Asi language) and last May, participated in the cultural games in the Mayohan Festival. There was also a vegetable seed distribution among the different barangays. A spur of the moment invite to RDL-CLEAR Founding Director Ish Fabicon to speak on the introduction to choral recitation was also extended by the Banton National High School (Junior English).

The mahogany tree planting in San Agustin has to be followed through however by the Philippine chapter. According to Mayor Lourdes Madrona, this activity will be held during the town's fiesta this August. RDL-CLEAR is also waiting from Sibale a written proposal for a tree planting activity there.

Last July in Odiongan, RDL-CLEAR donated reference books to the Institute of Business and Accountancy of the Romblon State College (RSC). It also partnered with the Army Reserve Unit in Odiongan for the introduction of pili as an intercrop. About 3,000 pili seeds were distributed. Mr. Fabicon also gave a symposium on Philippine literature at the RSC. Furthermore, Odiongan is eyed to be next writers' workshop venue on the three languages.

In Manila, a number of Romblomanons gathered for a first-ever fund raising event called Danz 4A Mission. This was held last July 12, 2003 in Makati.

On a talking and exploratory stage, RDL-CLEAR is partnering with the Romblon State College to create a Romblomanon Studies Center in the school.

Rainbow Park, Banton: The tree planting hopes to add more green to this island in the coming years.