CACHET TWG CAMPOUT 2026: ReConnect, ReChange, ReCharge, ReStart
By: Arlene Gajardo — CACHET TWG
A Journey of Connection, Growth, and Shared Purpose
The CACHET TWG Campout held at Tanay Epic Parc became a meaningful three-day experience of learning, fellowship, reflection, and renewal. Anchored on the theme “ReConnect, ReChange, ReCharge, ReStart,” the campout brought together teachers, mentors, and student leaders to strengthen collaboration, deepen relationships, and reaffirm commitment to the CACHET mission.
This campout is deeply aligned with the wisdom of St. Josemaría Escrivá, who reminds us of the value of presence, togetherness, and shared joy:
“Vacations are a wonderful gift from God: they are meant to bring you closer to one another, to strengthen your love, and to make your home life more joyful and united. Do not fill them with so many activities that you end up strangers to each other. Time spent together, talking, walking, laughing, praying — that is the best holiday you can give your family.”
For St. Josemaría, holidays and breaks exist so people can reconnect, slow down, and give each other the time and attention that daily work and duties often take away. It is not about fancy places or expensive plans—it is about presence, conversation, affection, and shared joy.
Day 1: Foundations of Unity, Learning, and Renewed Commitment
A day of strengthening connections, deepening mentorship, and reigniting purpose for a more united CACHET community
The day began with arrival and room assignments, followed by an opening prayer led by Mr. Joseph Marfori. Afterwards, Ms. Marievic Maala warmly welcomed everyone as she presented the house rules and reminded the participants that the campout was an opportunity to reconnect as one family.
One of the highlights of the morning was the Orientation and Presentation of Objectives and Expected Outputs led by Dr. Antonio Torralba. He emphasized building a stronger, more united, and competent Technical Working Group grounded in belongingness and service. The session focused on aligning the upcoming calendar of activities, improving efficiency and effectiveness, and strengthening the mentoring framework rooted in genuine care between mentors and mentees. It also covered standardized training, monitoring tools, integration of mentoring in the school system, responsible use of Artificial Intelligence, spiritual formation, team building, and wellness. The session highlighted the importance of balance—work, rest, and renewal—to ensure everyone remains refreshed and ready for meaningful service.
The participants were then inspired by the first talk titled “Leading with Heart and Excellence: Empowering Others for Service” delivered by Dr. Aliza Racelis. Her discussion revolved around Moral Recovery Programs, Virtuous Leadership, Cardinal Virtues, Magnanimity, Social Responsibility, and meaningful social initiatives. She explained the deeper meaning of “Values” (Pagpapahalaga) and “Virtus” (Good Habits o Kabutihang Asal), reminding everyone that leadership is grounded in character and integrity. The engaging activities she facilitated encouraged the participants to reflect on their own values and leadership practices.
After lunch, participants joined a Bingo Card activity that encouraged interaction and strengthened camaraderie among teachers and students. Through fun prompts such as shared locations, years in CACHET, and common interests, participants freely mingled and built new connections, fostering a stronger sense of belonging within the CACHET community. The day continued with a Holy Mass at the EPIC Chapel together with Mr. and Mrs. Brown, providing a moment of reflection and spiritual renewal.
In the afternoon, the second talk titled “From Roadmap to Reality: Turning Self-Mastery and Mentorship Principles into Daily Results” was facilitated by Sir Jeffrey Rosales. The session served as a practical workshop for aspiring mentors and student leaders who are eager to create positive impact. He emphasized a powerful truth: “You cannot guide someone if you have not guided yourself first.” Participants learned that self-awareness is not the destination but the foundation of meaningful mentoring conversations.
The discussion also clarified the common misconceptions about mentoring. Mentoring is not about fixing, rescuing, or preaching. Instead, it is about listening, guiding, asking, affirming, and helping others identify one clear next step. Mr. Rosales introduced the LEAD Model — Locate the Person, Examine the Self, Activate Insight, and Drive Commitment and Action — as a simple yet effective structure for mentoring conversations. Through role-playing activities where participants alternated as mentor, mentee, and observer, everyone was given the chance to experience and appreciate the mentoring process firsthand. The workshop concluded with meaningful sharing sessions that deepened the participants’ understanding of empathy, leadership, and accountability.
As the evening approached, participants enjoyed dinner together before ending the day with a joyful bonfire gathering filled with laughter, hotdogs, marshmallows, and shared stories. More than just a recreational activity, the bonfire symbolized warmth, friendship, and the rekindling of passion for service and mentorship.
Indeed, the first day of the CACHET TWG Campout became a meaningful journey of reconnecting with one another, recharging the mind and spirit, embracing positive change, and restarting with renewed commitment toward transformative leadership and mentoring. The learning, bonding, and experiences shared during the first day set the tone for an even more exciting and meaningful continuation of activities for the second day of the campout.
Day 2: A Day of Celebration, Gratitude, and Meaningful Closure
A day of responsible innovation, collaborative planning, and meaningful engagement
Day 2 of the CACHET TWG Campout, held last May 23 at Tanay Epic Parc, highlighted innovation, collaboration, and purposeful teamwork among participants.
The day began with breakfast, followed by the third talk titled “Harnessing the Future: Positive and Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence” delivered by Aliza Racelis. The session emphasized AI ethical guidelines and principles such as transparency, accountability, fairness, and human-centered use of technology. It also discussed AI hallucinations, reminding participants of the importance of critical thinking and verification of information. The Catholic Church’s perspective on AI was also highlighted, recognizing it as a powerful tool that must always be guided by ethical principles to serve humanity and the common good. The session further emphasized the need to reimagine education—moving beyond knowledge transfer toward developing critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration in the age of AI.
In the mid-morning, participants engaged in two major workshops divided into three groups each.
Workshop 1: Virtue of Focus Lesson Plan (Facilitated by Myla Rico and Mary Jane Almonicido)
Each group worked on developing a Virtue of Focus Lesson Plan aligned with CACHET values:
Group 1: Makatao
Group 2: Makabansa / Makapamilya
Group 3: Makakalikasan
The activity focused on integrating values formation into instructional planning and strengthening character-based education through clear and purposeful lesson design.
Workshop 2: Drafting and Finalizing the Operational Guidelines for the Federation of CACHET Clubs (Facilitated by Christy Cañaveral and Arlene Gajardo)
The workshop focused on establishing a clear framework for the Federation of CACHET Clubs in the pilot divisions of Caloocan City, Cavite Province, and Santa Rosa City, guided by the following objectives:
Define the legal and operational framework for CACHET clubs.
Draft clear official requirements for membership, formation, and recognition.
Standardize guidelines for club governance, roles, and responsibilities.
Ensure alignment with division policies and educational goals.
Participants worked in three groups with specific outputs:
Group 1: Membership Criteria and Eligibility, focusing on official policies and standards for club membership
Group 2: Governance, Roles, and Policy Alignment, focusing on leadership structure and policy integration
Group 3: Requirements for Club Formation and Registration, focusing on the framework for establishing and recognizing CACHET Clubs
The afternoon concluded with the presentation of outputs led by Dr. Antonio Torralba, highlighting the collaborative efforts, insights, and shared commitment of the participants in strengthening the CACHET framework. Other participants also actively shared their ideas, feedback, and recommendations, enriching the discussion and further refining the proposed outputs through collective reflection and collaboration.
A significant spiritual experience followed as participants proceeded to St. Jude Shrine for the anticipated Mass, where they offered prayers and intentions in a solemn celebration of faith and gratitude.
Upon returning to the venue, the group gathered for the Holy Rosary and Flower Offering, a reflective moment of devotion and thanksgiving that deepened spiritual unity and strengthened shared purpose among participants.
The day culminated in a vibrant Talent Night, where both students and teachers showcased their talents in dance, music, and the performing arts. The evening became a celebration of creativity, unity, and excellence within the CACHET TWG.
A major highlight of the night was the introduction of the CACHET Jingle, “Isulong WAGI sa CACHET,” composed by Dr. Nida C. Tagalag, Education Program Supervisor–Values Education of SDO Santa Rosa City. The jingle beautifully captured the mission and values of CACHET, serving as a unifying anthem of hope, discipline, and transformation.
As the celebration closed, the spirit of unity and commitment echoed in the hearts of the participants, reminding everyone that: “CACHET! CACHET! WAGI SA CACHET!”
Day 3: A Day of Reflection, Gratitude, and Joyful Culmination
“A culminating day of thanksgiving, reflection, and celebration of shared commitment.”
The third and final day of the CACHET TWG Campout was marked by joy, gratitude, and meaningful fellowship as participants culminated their shared experiences throughout the camp.
The day began with breakfast, followed by a refreshing swimming activity at Adelaida Subdivision Swimming Pool. The activity provided a relaxing and enjoyable experience, allowing participants to unwind while further strengthening camaraderie.
Afterwards, participants returned to camp for lunch and the formal closing program. Certificates were awarded in recognition of active participation and commitment throughout the camp. Special recognitions from the Talent Night were also given, celebrating creativity, collaboration, and excellence, along with other awards highlighting the spirit of engagement during the entire camp.
The afternoon continued with a visit to the residence of Dr. Walter Brown and Mrs. Brown, where participants gathered in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Group 1 led the singing of the CACHET Jingle, followed by other participants joining in, creating a unifying moment of joy and shared identity.
Participants shared their reflections and takeaways from the camp, expressing gratitude for the learning experiences, strengthened relationships, and renewed sense of purpose. Inspirational messages were also delivered by Dr. Walter Brown and Mrs. Annabelle Brown, emphasizing service, gratitude, and continued commitment to the CACHET vision.
A powerful closing message was shared by Dr. Antonio Torralba, reminding everyone:
“You are the Return on Investment, the ROI, that Tita Annabelle dreamt about that would sustain the divine business of caring for souls. You are the torches that would be passed, we hope, from generation to generation.”
As the CACHET TWG Campout concludes, participants carry home renewed purpose, strengthened relationships, and a deeper commitment to the mission of CACHET. The experiences shared throughout the camp serve as a reminder of the importance of collaboration, values formation, and collective growth.
With gratitude and inspiration, everyone moves forward as one CACHET family, ready to continue the journey of service and transformation.
“Tara na! Sama na! Sa CACHET ngayon—sama-sama, CACHET isulong ngayon!”
