BOTOLAN, Zambales—Some 25,000 scouts, leaders, dignitaries and volunteers from the Asia-Pacific Region, converged in this town for the formal conclusion of the weeklong 33rd Asia-Pacific Scouts Jamboree held at the 62-hectare Camp Zambales on Dec. 20.
The jamboree is one of the biggest outdoor educational scouting events in the Asia-Pacific Region, bringing together tens of thousands of Scouts from across Asia and beyond, for a vibrant and unforgettable celebration.
“Today we will not mark an ending but a milestone. What has taken place in our province over these days is a living testament of what young people can achieve guided by shared values, and a sense of responsibility beyond themselves,” declared Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., who served as camp chief.
“As the host province, we take deep pride in having witnessed this gathering unfold. Together with the Boys scout of the Philippines, we have shown that the Philippine scouting is not only capable of international scheme but to upholding standards that reflect excellence, preparedness and achievement,” he said.
“To our friends from the Asia-Pacific Region, your presence has strengthened the bonds that connect our nations. May the solidarity form here enjoy beyond this occasion and continue to guide our collective efforts towards understanding. May the lesson be learned, the challenges faced and the friendship forged here became part of who you are,” Ebdane furthered.
The host province and the Boys Scout of the Philippines, presented tokens and certificates to the scout leaders representing the scout delegations from Australia, Bangladesh, Kuwait, Korea, Taiwan, Maldives, Hongkong, United States, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Vietnam, Mongolia, Nepal, Bhutan, Timor Leste and India.
The closing ceremony featured the ceremonial lighting of the grand campfire lighted by the host municipality mayor and deputy camp chief Jun Omar Ebdane and selected scout leaders from the north, south, east, and west parts of the country, followed by performances like singing and dancing to the tune of “Scouts We are One,” the official jamboree song.
To officially close the event, Camp Chief Ebdane turned over the scout flag to Thailand scout delegation, who will host the next Asia-Pacific Regional Scouts Jamboree. Photos: Malou Dungog
