Monsanto Philippines brought hope and joy to 75 orphans at White Cross Orphanage through story-telling. Monsanto shared the story of a lady famer from Mindanao, Conching Reyes, through the animated version of the book titled Lina’s Town Rises Again which was inspired by Reyes’ success in farming despite the odds she faced.
It may be recalled that Reyes’ town in Sultan Kudarat was devastated by Typhoon Pablo. The said typhoon left a trail of death and destruction including Reyes’ house and farm. Reyes was left penniless but she never gave up hope. She started planting Bt corn which brought her good yield every planting season. Soon after, her life improved and she was even able to help her community recover from the typhoon’s aftermath.
“It is always good to share inspiring stories and uplift people’s spirits,” said Monsanto’s Corporate Affairs Head Chat Garrido-Ocampo. “I think the adults taking care of the kids also enjoyed watching the animation. Some of them couldn’t help utter the answers to the questions about the story.”
To check their comprehension of the story, the kids were asked questions after they watched the animation and all were able to answer the questions. “it was a nice surprise because the book was meant for kids ages 9-12. However, we had children as young as 5 and 6 answering the questions correctly,” Ocampo said.
Monsanto employees shared a meal with the kids and caregivers of White Cross after the story-telling activity and distributed loot bags to all the children.
“Thank you for visiting us and we hope Monsanto can do this again, “ said White Cross staff Wilma Dollete. “The kids had fun and they learned as well. It was a productive experience for them and everyone involved in this activity.” ### (MonPhil/TN)
