The holiday season gave us the opportunity to celebrate what truly matters through two meaningful events. One focused on spending joyful time with children, filling the day with laughter and simple moments of happiness.

The other featured an insightful talk that reflected on life’s challenges, offering encouragement, perspective and hope. Together these events captured the heart of the holidays -– care, reflection and giving.

A day at Cebu Safari and Adventure Park became extra meaningful as a group of pediatricians led by Doctor Vivina Chiu, president of the Philippine Medical Women’s Association, Cebu chapter joined families for a refreshing blend of learning and adventure.

The doctors gave a short yet insightful talk on parenting, offering practical guidance for raising children ages three to five.

They emphasized nurturing curiosity, setting gentle routines and supporting emotional development during these formative years. Parents appreciated the chance to ask questions in an open, relaxed setting.

After the talk, the 150  children  from neighboring barangays were treated to a fun-filled morning of games and laughter. A lively clown and the Safari Park’s, mascot, the friendly lion, entertained the kids and kept their energy high.  

The celebration continued with  warm servings of chicken porridge, followed by an abundance  of candies. Simple yet thoughtful, these treats brought smiles to every child and made the day even more memorable, ending the gathering on a joyful and caring note. Eduard Loop, vice president and COO of Cebu Safari and Adventure, together with his dedicated and highly efficient team, left no stone unturned in ensuring that the children experienced  a truly special  Christmas celebration. Every detail was carefully  planned to bring joy, laughter and excitement to the young participants.

 Dido Gustilo Villasor, the country’s top phycologist, delivered an engaging and rich talk at Casino Español drawing an appreciative audience from club members and special guests.

Known for her clear perspective, Villasor spoke with a balance of authority, warmth and deep respect for her listeners.

Her lecture highlighted the alarming rise of anxiety and depression among people of all ages, emphasizing that these conditions are no longer limited to any single generation or social group. It examined contributing factors such as constant digital exposure, economic uncertainty and the pressure to meet unrealistic expectations all of which have intensified in recent years.

Importantly, the lecture underscored the need to break the stigma surrounding mental health by encouraging open conversations, early intervention and access to professional support. Gustilo concluded with a reminder that addressing mental health is a collective responsibility, requiring empathy, awareness and sustained community effort.