79 years on, ‘Girl Scouting’ still very much alive

“If you happen to survive, and I fail, tell our people that the women of the Philippines did their part also in making the ember sparks of truth and liberty alive till the last moment.”

Such was the last powerful message of our national heroine and beloved founder of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines, Josefa Llanes Escoda.

With the help of friends, patrons and influential women, Escoda lobbied for the chartering of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) as a national organization. And, on May 26, 1940, the GSP was founded by virtue of Commonwealth Act No. 542. Seventy-nine years hence, the GSP has inspired and changed millions of lives through its unique program that focuses on health, self-sufficiency and livelihood, cultural heritage, environment, spirituality and world community.

In this day and time, is “Girl Scouting” relevant in our society? We hear people ask if Girl Scouting still exists. Yes, Girl Scouting is alive in schools and communities that believe in the vigor, abilities and potentials of girls and young women. Girl Scouting educates the mind to learn lifelong skills; cultivates the heart to help and serve others; engages the senses to discern right from wrong; distracts the youth from worldly vices; and uplifts women for their roles in the home, the nation and the world community.

In the midst of a modern world and a highly technological society, the presence of Girl Scouting in communities allows for Service to preserve its meaning; for Respect to be continually nurtured at home; for Practical Life skills to thrive; for Patriotism to serve a nation.

As Girl Scouts all over the country commemorate its 79th founding anniversary, they celebrate diversity as Isang Lahi—finding women at the center of perpetuating values and skills, knitting this country’s history and weaving this nation’s godly traits.

May the lessons of 79 years inspire and propel Girl Scouts to move forward, as the Girl Scouts of the Philippines continues its mission of developing girls and young women for their responsibilities in society.

GIRL SCOUTS OF THE PHILIPPINES, 901 Padre Faura, Ermita, Manila