In celebration of the holiday season, Ambassador Ilan Fluss, alongside the Shalom Club, brought festive joy to daycare children across Licab, Nueva Ecija, during the 2024 Ngayong Pasko, Salo Tayo and Municipal Children’s Month festivities. The event, held on 28 November, served as a heartwarming occasion to spread peace, prosperity, and positivity among the young ones, symbolizing the spirit of Hanukkah and Christmas.

“These children are the future leaders; this is why we invest in them,” Ambassador Fluss said, emphasizing the importance of nurturing and supporting the next generation. "Shalom means peace, and with the holidays approaching, the State of Israel, through the Shalom Club of Nueva Ecija, wishes to bring peace, prosperity, and positivity to everyone today."

The event featured around 355 daycare children from the 12 barangays of Licab, Nueva Ecija, who were treated to a festive celebration that included food, gifts, and toys. The toys were generously donated by Ronald McDonald House Charities, while MASHAV Israel, Israel’s official international development cooperation initiative, provided additional support for the initiative.

Renowned Filipino artist “AmangPintor” Elito V. Cira added a creative touch by entertaining the children with his live hand-painting performance, making the day even more memorable for the little ones.

Ambassador Fluss expressed his appreciation for the Shalom Club of Nueva Ecija, praising their dedication in organizing the year-end initiative. “Let us build more bridges of partnership between our nations, especially in education,” Fluss added, encouraging the Shalom Club to continue their impactful projects that benefit the Filipino community.

The celebration was further honored by the presence of local officials, including Licab Mayor Eufemia Domingo, faculty members, and representatives from the local government unit. Dr. Eugenia Baltazar, Shalom Outreach Focal, as well as Ms. Lorna Mae Vero, President of Shalom Club Nueva Ecija, also attended, underscoring the event’s community significance.

The Shalom Club of Nueva Ecija, composed of MASHAV alumni who have participated in various training programs in Israel, plays a crucial role in the ongoing partnership between the Philippines and Israel. This holiday initiative is part of the club's annual volunteer program, reinforcing its mission to provide support and uplift communities in Nueva Ecija.

Through events like this, the Shalom Club and MASHAV continue to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Israel and the Philippines, creating lasting positive change for those who need it most.