RAFI launches children's book

By Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc.
February 26, 2013

CEBU CITY – The Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) launched Akong Bugsay on Feb. 19 at the Eduardo Aboitiz Hall of the Eduardo Aboitiz Development Studies Center.

Akong Bugsay, which is written by Amaya C. Aboitiz, is an illustrated bilingual children's book that teaches the famous Bugsay principle of RAFI President Roberto “Bobby” E. Aboitiz. The story revolves around the first fishing trip of Andoy, accompanied by his father who is a fisherman.

"Just as the bugsay philosophy inspired individuals and groups in business and government, we believe that it can also be shared with children. Just like Andoy, young children have goals. They are excited and curious and want to do new things. Just like his father, we can guide them, help them to plan, encourage them and model ways to face challenges. Young children can start setting short term goals and with our help they can succeed. Success breeds success, confidence and the desire to continue towards bigger, better things," Amaya Aboitiz said in her speech after the storytelling.

"The book that we have shared with you today is our way of bringing our efforts to even younger audience. It is a simple story with, we believe, a powerful message," she said.

The Bugsay Principle is about having a goal, planning well, and working hard to achieve one's goal. The program includes a storytelling by Vilma Laranas of Guadix Kiddie Center and her pre-school pupils.

"RAFI believes in the power of the youth. We understand the opportunity we have to improve the lives of individuals and in doing so, the future of our country. We work towards a vision of a Filipino youth that is self-driven, goal-oriented, and who have a compelling sense of purpose in their lives," Aboitiz shared.

The author also encouraged the audience, especially the teachers, to bring the book and its message to students, the community, and the education system.

"We need people to help us come up with activities that will help teachers unlock the power of this book, the power that resides in each and every child," she urged.

The launching was graced by representatives from the Department of Education 7, the academe, teachers, teacher educators, librarians, literacy advocates, and the media.

Copies of the book was sold at the venue at P150 each while the coloring book cost P50. For every book sold during the launch, a copy of the coloring book will be given to supported schools of RAFI's Dolores Aboitiz Children's Fund (DACF).