MORE than 100 employees of the Visayan Electric Company (Veco) trooped to the City of Naga for the 9th Pasko sa Kabataan (Christmas for Children) last Dec. 8.
A total of 108 kids from different barangays enjoyed the early Christmas treat from the Veco Kaibigans (friends). These kids belong to families who are temporarily taking shelter at the Naga Central School after the areas where they lived were declared geohazards following the landslide last September.
“Veco chose to hold its Pasko sa Kabataan this year here in the City of Naga because we want to bring happiness to all the kids who have been displaced because of the landslide. The relief operations we conducted last September inspired us to come back and do more,” said Quennie Bronce, head of Veco’s Reputation Enhancement Department.
The children were treated to different games, face painting and food stations that served ice cream, cotton candy, popcorn and french fries. The party got even more exciting with the presence of a magician, clowns and a dance performance from Jollibee. The kids also went home with a Christmas gift, new slippers and a backpack filled with school supplies from Veco.
Irene Desquitado, a Veco Kaibigan who has never missed joining the Pasko sa Kabataan, said Christmas becomes more fulfilling when she makes someone happy.
“At least, in our own little way and through sharing a little of our time, we made these kids happy,” she said. “What made this year different is that these kids witnessed a traumatic event. To some, this must be their first time to celebrate Christmas in an evacuation center.”
Veco is the second largest electric utility in the Philippines. It serves the cities of Cebu, Mandaue, Talisay, Naga and four municipalities of the greater part of Metro Cebu—Liloan, Consolacion, Minglanilla and San Fernando.
Since its establishment on Feb. 25, 1905, Veco has been a partner in Cebu’s progress by advancing business and communities. The non-energy community outreach programs of Veco promote education, environment and community development within its franchise area and are geared toward guiding the youth, the future movers of our nation.