Luneta and Intramuros for the First Time

It all started with one boy's wish, "Ate, I want to see Intramuros," and taking that cue, the World Youth Alliance - Asia Pacific (WYA) and YTRiP took him, his friends, and his neighbors to Luneta and then to the walled city.

25 students and out-of-school youth from GK SIGA - Castaneda, Mandaluyong.

7 Big Sisters and Brothers from WYA.
1 GK friend,
3 YTRiP Volunteers,
plus Manong Guard at Luneta.

1 wish fulfilled.
25 hearts and minds.
Mostly Manila first-timers.


They knew about Rizal. Now they know more about history.

One of them said it beats going to the mall.

And so, part of our mission was accomplished, but it does not end there.

Like we said, it's not about the numbers. It's about the experience and wonder. It's also about understanding history - after all, it is our story.

YTRiP would like to thank the World Youth Alliance for partnering with us for this trip. If you would like to do the same thing for your area, village, or students - email us and let's help each other give meaningful experiences to our youth.

Text by Clare Amador
Photo courtesy of Donna de Jesus, WYA © 2007