MLAC Institute

Parenting Workshop

Canumay Antipolo, August 29, 2015

By: Bless de Asis

Parents from a far-flung community in Canumay, Antipolo Rizal, gathered in a school, eagerly awaiting to attend another seminar-workshop. They shared that such visits are very much anticipated because they learn a lot. Last time, the topic was nutrition and family planning. That Saturday in August, mothers and fathers, both young and those advanced in years, gave a warm welcome to Dra. Carandang and some of the MLAC team who visited. All of them looked forward to the parenting workshop, organized by Walter Cheng and his family.

The long trip which involved traversing up the mountains and through narrow, winding dirt roads, proved to be fruitful as the parents individually shared their experiences of how they were raising their children. Most of them resonated with the need to be more mindful when disciplining their children. The ideas shared struck a right chord in the hearts of the participants because they were able to see parenting their children in a different light. They also expressed their gratitude for being given the opportunity to listen to the talk and be listened to.

All seem to agree that they were hungry for the learning and smiles of delight were on everyone’s faces as they headed home despite the downpour. It was a tiring long trek down, given the muddy, dirt roads and zero visibility because of the strong rains, but the MLAC team were awed and nurtured by the parents’ enthusiastic participation and wisdom they have shared with us.

Here are some pictures from the parenting workshop c/o Walter Cheng.

The road less travelled in far-flung Canumay, Antipolo

Dr. Carandang talks to the participants during the start of the workshop.

Dr. Carandang emphasizes the need to treat children with respect and the importance of listening to children’s innate wisdom.

The MLAC team with Sir Walter Cheng (father of Walter Cheng)

Student volunteers Carla Buenaflor and Walter Cheng talk to some parents.

(Not so) Small Group Discussion with MLAC team member Tessibeth Cordova.

Another job well done by the MLAC team 🙂