“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” Psalm 133:1

In a spirited gathering on November 16, 2024, selected faculty, staff, parent representatives, and the Manresa School Parents Auxiliary (MSPA) officers came together for a teambuilding event,  aimed at fostering unity and collaboration. Held at the MS Old Gym, the program unfolded with a shared vision of cultivating a more cohesive and harmonious team, among MSPA officers and in the broader Manresa School community.

The day began with a breakfast, offered to all by the MSPA  and registration at 7:15 AM, followed by an opening prayer led by Ms. Bonna Villagracia and a heartfelt welcome message from the MSPA President, Mrs. Alessandra Florentino, that set the tone for the activities ahead.  creative warm-up session introduced by the facilitator, Ms. Carol Pia added a twist to the familiar "The Boat is Sinking" game, with participants grouping themselves based on shared preferences such as dream destinations, favorite breakfasts, birth months, and even Christmas songs. This innovative approach not only broke the ice but, also encouraged participants to bond over shared interests. The final grouping was based on Christmas songs distributed during breakfast, which became the permanent teams for the day, many participants cheerfully sang their songs aloud to find their teammates, adding a festive and joyful spirit to the activity.

The main team-building activities designed to challenge participants’ creativity, strategy, and teamwork commenced at 10:00 AM. Teams first showcased their ingenuity with team cheers, coming up with unique names and energetic chants. Notable names included "Ang Panalo Team," "Yummy Team," and "The Best Team." The cheers were judged by Ms. Bonna Villagracia, Sr. Lorna Genovate, F.I., and Sr. Jeck Silorio, F.I., whose birthday was celebrated on the day with lively greetings from the participants.

Subsequent activities required both physical coordination and strategic planning. In "Ball Relay," pairs worked to carry a ball between their backs along a designated path while "Garter Relay" tested flexibility and coordination as teams passed a garter around their circle without breaking formation. The "Acid Relay" challenged teams to traverse a space using foam tiles without touching the floor, fostering collaboration and problem-solving. Each activity provided a platform for participants to strategize and adapt, highlighting the importance of teamwork and mutual support.

During the debriefing session, participants reflected on their experiences and shared insights. Ms. Baes of "The Best Team" emphasized the importance of encouragement. She stated “We encourage everyone, no matter the result, because there is always a chance to be the best team.” Sir Ian from the faculty added, “We just enjoy the moment because that’s what matters—to enjoy the experience.” These sentiments underscored the day’s central message: teamwork thrives on positivity and shared enjoyment.

When asked about the challenges they faced, the participants highlighted a range of obstacles. "Time was our biggest challenge," shared members of "Ang Panalo Team," while others mentioned physical fitness, especially for senior participants, and height differences as hurdles in some activities. Despite these difficulties, participants found ways to overcome them through collective effort and mutual support. One participant insightfully remarked, “We sought each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and through that, others filled the gaps of the weaknesses of others.” Ms. Roselyn Mirambil beautifully captured the spirit of the event, saying, “We are like an island, separated on the surface, but we are connected in the deep because of our one mission to glorify our God.”

The event concluded with an awarding ceremony that celebrated every team’s efforts. Teams were recognized for their unique attributes: "Group Adorable, Powerful Team" won Most Active Group, "Team Yummy" earned Most Creative Group, "Team Bida-bida" was named Most Joyful Group, and "Ang Panalo Team" claimed Most Synchronized Team. "The Best Team" emerged as the overall Best Group. In terms of performance, "Team Yummy" placed third in the overall activity with an average time of 1 minute and 11 seconds, "The Best Team" came in second with 1 minute and 10 seconds, and "Ang Panalo Team" took first place with an impressive 1 minute and 8 seconds.

Adding a meaningful conclusion to the program, participants engaged in an activity called Tashi Deley, a Tibetan greeting that translates to “I honor the greatness within you.” Equipped with colorful circle stickers, participants honored one another’s efforts and contributions by placing stickers on their teammates and other participants. This exchange of recognition created a heartfelt and celebratory atmosphere, reinforcing the bonds formed throughout the day.

Mrs. Carla Pia concluded the event with a prayer and encouraging closing remarks. It was followed by lunch and socializing among attendees. The MSPA team building day proved a resounding success, leaving participants with strengthened relationships, cherished memories, and renewed motivation to work together towards common goals. Truly, it was a day that embodied unity, joy, and the shared mission of the Manresa School community.

By Mr. John Ashley D. Jorda