By Ruben A. Veloria
ZAMBALES, Philippines- The 33rd Asia-Pacific Regional Scout Jamboree concluded on Saturday with a gigantic campfire and fireworks and concluded with passing of the APRSJ flag to scout representatives from Thailand, the host of the 34th regional jamboree in 2029.
The closing ceremony at the Camp Zambales Grand Arena where the 25,000 scout leaders convene for the last time, marking the successful week of highly planned activities in promoting friendship and camaraderie, teaching skills, enhancing leadership qualities, and understanding cultures and religion.
In his speech, Zambales Governor and designated Camp Chief Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. congratulated the members of the scouting committee who made the 33rd APRS Jamboree concluded with overwhelming success.
“Congratulations,” Gov. Ebdane said addressing the local and international delegations. “It has been our privilege to host the 33rd APR Jamboree. We have succeeded to put a show that with our limited resources, we have put up something unbelievable and we did it,” he added.
Gov. Ebdane noted that the camp which was planned, designed and built inside the formerly 62-hectare barren land, was prepared with the help of the community, as well as the tents which were produced themselves. However, the biggest challenge they met, Gov. Ebdane admiited, was how to “prepare into the largest scout camp in the Philippines” in just 180 days.
He admitted he sought the expertise of Zambales Provincial Engineering and Infrastructure Development (ZPEID) Consultant Engineer Domingo Mariano, and Zambales Provincial Engineer Ferdie Dagsaan, who planned and constructed the best camp site for the 33rd APR Scout Jamboree.
After seven days of adventure and exciting activities, a closing ceremony finally came with the traditional scout grand campfire set at the middle of the Grand Arena where most part of the 25,000 scouts were convened. Botolan mayor and Deputy Camp Chief for Operations Jun Omar Ebdane lighted the campfire, a culminating event fostering unity and reflections.
To officially conclude the jamboree in Zambales which started in December 14, Camp Chief Ebdane handed over to Chatchanin Tanapatchawin, representing the National Scout Organization of Thailand, the host of the 34th APRSJ in 2029.
“We are hoping to see all also to the next [34th] Jamboree in Thailand in 2029,” said Tanapatchawin. The statement was followed by a cheers and hurray of the scots as the fireworks displays covered the dark skies with colorful confetti of sparks and bangs.
Like all other members of the international Scout contingents, the Thai scout expressed his gratitude to Camp Chief Ebdane “because the scouts had really enjoyed the camp experience.”
