More than just memories By CAMILO ("DONNIE") VELASCO
GKYGAT 07 was the revitalising experience that I needed in my life. I had recently finished high school and my HSC and enjoying my holidays prior to leaving for the Philippines.
This was my first trip back to the Philippines for 18 years, so I was really excited.
Personally, the building process of GK YGAT 07 was probably the most outstanding part of the whole trip. It was characterised by a whole range of feelings and experiences that seemed to make the build memorable.
The environment we were working in was simply pleasant. It felt good to wake up in the morning, take in fresh air and be visually struck by the sight of Mt. Iriga as soon as you stepped outside of the house you were staying in. The routine of having breakfast, whilst talking to the other volunteers and local community felt naturally comfortable.
And the build, a display of a mixed group of people, locals and overseas volunteers, with different nationalities and beliefs, united to work with and for the less fortunate, was simply a sight to be in awe of.
My host family was one of the main reasons why the building process of GK YGAT 07 was memorable to me. Being taken in and becoming an extended member of their family was significant. Eyat and Myrna were my host parents, with their child Reymer and their nephew Richard. It felt nice to hear their individual stories and their daily activities.
Back in Australia, it seemed that there was time to pause or to take a break. In a society which feels fast paced, you aren’t given the time to reflect and think how fortunate we really are. For me, GK YGAT 07 showed me the privileges that I have and should not take for granted, like the ability to have a hot shower, to have plenty of food in the fridge and to live under a solid roof. These things that may seem of little value to me are luxuries for many in third world countries like the Philippines.
The building experience had also brought answers and peace to my mind. I felt a little self centred prior the trip. I was too worried about my own life and how to get more for myself, that I’d forgotten about the things that really mattered to me, like God, family and friends.
However, seeing the people of GK Character Village, and the other less fortunate around parts of the Philippines was a real eye opener. I’ve realised, I’ve so much in my life, so much more than I’ll ever need. It’s time I shared what I have with those who have barely enough to live.
My host family was one of the main reasons why the building process of GK YGAT 07 was memorable to me. Being taken in and becoming an extended member of their family was significant. Eyat and Myrna were my host parents, with their child Reymer and their nephew Richard. It felt nice to hear their individual stories and their daily activities.
