Botolan, Zambales – Almost 24,000 scouts and unit leaders from 19 countries gathered together in this lahar town, to celebrate the kickoff ceremony of the 33rd Asia-Pacific Regional (APR) Scout Jamboree at Camp Kainomayan, Botolan, Zambales on December 15, 2025.
It 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.
This year’s theme “Be Prepared: Scouts for Peace and Sustainable Development,” highlights the vital role of Scouting in nurturing responsible, service-driven, and environmentally conscious citizens-fully aligned with the goals of the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Zambales Governor and Camp Chief Hermogenes E. Ebdane Jr., Congresswoman Bing Maniquiz of the 2nd District of Zambales, Dato Dr. Moho Zin Bin Biden, Chairperson, Asia-PPacific Regional Scout Committee, Atty. Emilio B. Aquino, President of the Boy Scout of the Philippines, and Atty. Cedrick G. Train, Secretary General of the BSP were among the keynote speakers and guests during the opening.
Atty. Emilio B. Aquino, BSP National President, in his welcome remarks said, “This day marks more than the opening of a Jamboree. It is a celebration of unity, diversity, of friendship beyond borders, and of our shared commitment to the Scout Promise and Law.”
“This Jamboree stands as living proof that when young people come together with shared values, they become agents of peace, resilience and positive change.” Aquino said.
“For The Philippines, hosting the 33rd Asia-Pacific Regional Scout Jamboree is both an honor and a responsibility. It reflects our enduring belief in the transformative power of Scouting and our commitment to contribute meaningfully to the APR and the global Scout movement,” Aquino added.
Zambales Governor and Camp Chief Hermogenes Ebdane Jr said, “It’s our privilege to join you today, as we officially opened the 33rd Asia Pacific Regional Jamboree hosted by the Philippines . We are proud to welcome scouts and leaders from different nations and cultures, united by friendship, service and shared commitment to shaping our better future.”
“The values I learned in scouting, discipline, leadership, teamwork and service guided me throughout a lifetime of public service. My years in uniform and public service taught me that leadership is not about position or power, it is about responsibility , integrity and service to others. These are the saying principles that scouting continuously instills in young people across the world,” Ebdane shared.
“Today’s jamboree is more than a gathering. It is a training ground for future leaders. Leaders who will protect the environment, strengthen communities, promote peace, and face challenges with perils and compassion,” he said.
“Here in Zambales’ we take pride in being a province that values resilience, progress and sustainability. Hosting this jamboree reflects our commitment to youth development and international cooperation. We hope that during your stay you will experience not only the beauty of our province but also the warmth and hospitality of our people, and when this Jamboree comes to an end, we sincerely hope this will not be your last visit and you will always be welcomed in Zambales,” Ebdane concluded.
This scouting event currently taking place at Camp Zambales will last until December 21, 2025. In the following days scout activities and events include rock climbing and rappelling, Jamboree festival, native games and street dancing.(Malou Dungog)
