The untold story of the "CaraGold" advance party
In the early hours of June 18, tha magical change began at the Lahug Elementary School and Lahug Night High School in Cebu City as the first batch of the advance party of the
Department of Education (DepEd)
Caraga, the intrepid decoration committee, embarked on a mission of transformation,
determined to turn these venues into welcoming and functional billeting
quarters for the Caraga athletic delegation, the "CaraGold," a combination
of Caraga as a region and gold that glitters through its talents and skills.
On June 25, the additional members of the advance party, composed of the regional chief, supervisors, school principals, and select teachers from various divisions of DepEd Caraga arrived. They worked tirelessly from 6:00 a.m. until the wee hours of the following morning.
They paid attention to every detail, from the entrance gate to the sleeping quarters, from the storage areas to the kitchen, conference rooms, mess hall, restrooms, and surrounding gardens.
The clean and green committee and the repair and maintenance committee, each headed by a chairperson, ensured every area was immaculate for the entire delegation. Not even the scarcity of budget, sleep deprivation, excruciating heat and untold discomfort, and the occasional hunger due to irregular meal times could prevent these highly skilled heroes from pouring their hearts and souls into preparing the billeting quarters.
It was no ordinary task; it was a labor of love, a commitment to ensuring that the CaraGold athletes would feel at home and empowered to perform at their best. As the day progressed, the decoration committee, driven by a shared vision and unshakeable resolve, completed its mission.
Despite the physical and psychological strain caused by their rigorous work schedule, these remarkable people demonstrated unmatched attitudes of selflessness, sacrifice, and service. Their commitment to their tasks testified to their unwavering dedication to the success of the Palarong Pambansa 2024.
No words can repay their dedication and fortitude. The advance party members were truly remarkable.
The venues now stood ready, exuding a welcoming warmth and readiness to host the champions of Caraga. Much of their other individual struggles and circumstances may remain untold, yet their elegant work and the mesmerizing results speak louder than any compliments or congratulations they could ever receive. Their remarkable story is a poignant reminder of the power of silent behind-the-scenes efforts.
The transformation of Lahug Elementary School and Lahug Night High School is more than just a physical change - because it manifests the beautiful souls of those who have the passion and the unbreakable will to serve, regardless of adverse circumstances.
The humble success of the advance party at the billeting quarters has set the stage for CaraGold’s forthcoming triumphs, their journey already marked by an inspiring display of teamwork and excellence. (Raymond Maligro, Head Teacher II, Agusan del Sur Division/DepEd Caraga Region/PIA-Agusan del Sur)
