19 November 2013 - As part of this year’s commemoration of the 150th birth anniversary of Andres Bonifacio, the Philippine Consulate General in Agana, Guam conducted a storytelling session with the students of the Eskwelahang Munti on Guam last November 16.
Consul Edgar Tomas Q. Auxilian, joined by his wife Dr. Maria Vita E. Auxilian and the Consulate’s Cultural Officer, Ms. Mildred C. Sayurin, visited the Eskwelahang Munti in Dededo to introduce and share the life story of Andres Bonifacio to the nine (9) students, ages four to nine years old, who are presently enrolled in the program. Some parents were also present during the session.
Consul Auxilian started his storytelling by showing the picture of Andres Bonifacio. He then narrated the childhood days of Andres Bonifacio and the relevant highlights of his life story based on the book authored by Mr. Isagani Medina. In particular, he shared the important role of Bonifacio in Philippine history, specifically his founding of the Katipunan which led to the struggle of the Filipinos for independence from Spanish colonial rule.
Consul Auxilian told the students that as the founder and supreme leader of the Katipunan, Andres Bonifacio has become known to be the “Father of the Philippine Revolution”. He is considered as one of the Philippine national heroes and on November 30, 2013, the Philippines will be celebrating his 150th birth anniversary.
The students listened attentively to Consul Auxilian as he narrated the life story of Bonifacio. They also took down notes and raised several questions during and after the storytelling.
The students were so happy with the experience and expressed that “now they know of another Philippine national hero, and that is Andres Bonifacio”, aside from Jose Rizal.
Consul Auxilian thanked Mrs. Mila Moguel and the Eskwelahang Munti for the great opportunity to impart knowledge to the young students about Andres Bonifacio as part of this year’s Philippine commemoration of his 150th birth anniversary. END