With hearts full of gratitude, the Bukid Kabataan Center (BKC) marked its 25th anniversary on June 7, 2025 with the theme: Bukid Kabataan at 25: Pasasalamat, Paglalakbay, Paghilom at Pag-asa. As one of the agencies of St. Mary Euphrasia Integrated Development Foundation, Inc., BKC has journeyed with countless young girls (and boys at certain period of its history) , helping them find safety, healing, and new beginnings.
The celebration became a homecoming of sorts, as RGS Sisters, staff (past and present), benefactors, and friends gathered to remember and rejoice. The day opened with the Eucharist presided by Fr Hartono Budi, SJ, a good friend of the sisters and of the center. During the homily, Fr Hartono invited the some of the attendees to share their own memory of BK. At the end of the Mass was a touching tribute to deceased sisters who had been part of the BK journey and of course, Msgr Francisco Tantoco, who through Caritas Manila, made the land available for use of Bukid Kabataan.
One of the most moving moments came from the BKC girls themselves, who offered a theater performance that wove together the story of the Center’s beginnings, the dream that sparked its mission, and the 25-year journey of healing and empowerment. Their voices and movements told more than history; they spoke of courage, renewal, and the beauty of discovering one’s worth. Thanks to Sir Albert and team who directed and who, throughout the years have been partners of BK in giving therapeutic workshops to the girls.
Truly, Bukid Kabataan is more than a shelter. It is a home where children are seen, loved, and believed in. It is a place where faith in self, in others, and in God is renewed day by day.
The celebration would not be complete without the girls singing their signature song, “Pasasalamat ang Ala-ala ng Puso”—inspired by St. Mary Euphrasia’s beloved adage: “Gratitude is the memory of the heart.” The song, composed by Sr. Myra Atian during her mission in BK, draws its lyrics from the girls’ own reflections. Each time it is sung at the close of a program, it never fails to move guests to tears.
Bukid Kabataan will mark this milestone throughout the year with various events, including reunions of former shelter residents and gatherings of partners in mission. With grateful hearts and renewed hope, BKC looks ahead—carrying forward its mission of healing, empowerment, and the joy of new life that only Jesus the Good Shepherd can bring.
