By Karren Jay G. Asgar

Senior Girl Scout Princess Allea E. Alvarez was awarded the Chief Girl Scout Medal during the ceremony on November 19, 2024, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.

Senior Girl Scout Princess Allea E. Alvarez, a Grade 9-Narra student from the CPU-Junior High School Department, clinched the Chief Girl Scout Medal during the awarding ceremony on November 19, 2024, at the Philippine International Convention City (PICC), Pasay City.

Alvarez received the highest award that a Senior Girl Scout or a Cadet Girl Scout can receive after completing a community development project in the areas of Ecology, Health, Livelihood, or Cultural Heritage. With her project in ecology entitled “Abentura ng mga Bata patungo sa Kasiyahan at Katalinuhan.” it focused on the installation and beautification of playground in Baras Day Care Center, Barangay Baras, Guimbal, Iloilo.

She recalled her journey on girl scouting when she was in elementary school. “Over the years, the experiences and learnings that I had made me realize that girl scouting is more than just making lasting memories with your co-scouts and having the best time of your lives. By joining Girl Scouts, I was able to hone my abilities needed for me to extend a helping hand to others as well. The movement itself is like a torch that illuminates your path, guiding you to success,” Alvarez said.

One of the most challenging experiences she encountered was during the Regional Junior, Senior, and Cadet Camp 2019 in Cebu. At just nine years old, she was the youngest participant representing CPU. Typically, long-distance camping adventures were a source of excitement and joy, as these were experiences, she truly loved. However, falling ill during the camp brought an overwhelming sense of helplessness. In those moments, she found herself yearning for the comforting presence of her mother, imagining her care and reassurance to get through the night.

“Reflecting on that moment, my growth and improvement personally eventually developed. Experiences like these had me coming back home much stronger and independent than before, carrying lifelong lessons,” she added.

When asked about a service project she initiated or participated in that made a significant impact, she shared her initiative under the area of Ecology, titled “Ecology: Abentura ng mga Bata Patungo sa Kasiyahan at Katalinuhan (Installation and Beautification of Playground).” Before launching the project, she conducted a community survey to identify the barangay’s specific needs. One significant gap she discovered was the absence of a children’s playground.

“This project is the one closest to my heart, this is one of the main reasons on why I chose this project other than anything for I believe if you are passionate about your work, you shall be able to carry it out properly,” she emphasized.

A playground is a vital element in any community, offering significant developmental benefits for children of all ages. Recognizing how today’s generation often relies heavily on electronics, she was motivated to create a space that encouraged kids to engage in physical activities, promoting their growth and well-being.

“I hope this will serve as a reminder to my fellow Centralians that children should not be too dependent on gadgets, and they shall involve themselves on outdoor physical activities,” she reminded.

Throughout her scouting journey, she has had two role models whom she deeply admires. These women have been part of her life since her elementary years, witnessing her growth from a Star Scout to a Senior Girl Scout, and eventually to a Chief Girl Scout. These “superwomen” are her Tita Claire, the Council Executive of the Iloilo Girl Scout Council, and Ma’am Zante, her troop leader during her elementary days. Their guidance and support have left a lasting impact on her journey as a scout.

“Having both by my side is like feeling a mother’s genuine love and care; they are like my mothers in Girl Scouts. They have seen my firsts in scouting, been there in the midst of my challenges, and guided me to the right path. Their love for the movement inspired me to do the same as well, lending a helping hand and reaching those in need.”

As she reflects on her Chief Girl Scout Medal Scheme (CGSMS) Project, she firmly believes that when given the opportunity to help others in need, one should seize it wholeheartedly. Instead of letting worries take over, she encourages turning them into prayers, trusting that the Lord will provide the strength and sustenance needed to carry out the mission.

“Here I’ll leave is one of the Bible Verses that I constantly read when I was working on the scheme: Galatians 6:10 – Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

With her strong determination and commitment that lead her to receive the Chief Girl Scout Medal, Princess Allea E. Alvarez stands as a testament to what can be accomplished with hard work and commitment – qualities that define a Centralian.