Botolan, Zambales - The province of Zambales unveiled the 33rd Asia-Pacific Regional (APR) Scout Jamboree marker at Camp Kainomayan in the town of Botolan, Zambales, on 14 December.
Zambales Governor and Camp Chief Hermogenes E. Ebdane Jr., Congresswoman Bing Maniquiz of the 2nd District of Zambales, Atty. Emilio B. Aquino, President of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines, and Atty. Cedrick G. Train, Secretary General of the BSP, led the unveiling of the historic marker, signifying that Zambales is now part of the international scouting venues.
According to Ebdane, as the Camp Chief of the 33rd Asia-Pacific Regional Scout Jamboree, it is his pleasure to be one with the scouts and scoutmasters from various countries in the Asia Pacific Region.
He added that the marker signifies this momentous occasion when all the scouts of the APR converge and become one with nature that was once ravaged by Mt. Pinatubo.
A holy mass was first held at the Camp Kainomayan Chapel which was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Enrico N. Paglinawan, Assistant Council Chaplain of Camarines Sur.
The holy ceremony was prayed for the safety of each and every participant in the event.
After the mass, the unveiling was held on the marker that signifies the unity, peace, and spirit of global friendship that is promoted by scouting.
Ebdane said that the Provincial Government will continue to promote peace, order, and sound governance to ensure the successful holding of the 33rd APR Scout Jamboree in Zambales.
The event is an international scouting event currently taking place from 14 to 21 December, at the Kainomayan Scout Camp in Botolan, Zambales, Philippines.
According to Congresswoman Maniquiz, around 23,000 will take part in the event, ranging from grade 7 to grade 12.
She added that the event will further impact the tourism aspect of the area, providing a glimpse of the outdoor tourism capabilities of the town of Botolan.
She added that the 33rd APR Scout Jamboree is part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr's thrust of Kabataan para sa Bagong Pilipinas focusing on the growth of the youth for the betterment of the nation.
The said program prioritizes the welfare of the Filipino youth under Bagong Pilipinas, recognizing the role of young people as the country’s future nation builders.