Ionic bonds formed during '5bulous Together' bonding night

Huwag kang matakot

'Di mo ba alam, nandito lang ako

Sa iyong tabi?

'Di kita pababayaan kailanman…

-”Huwag Kang Matakot” by Eraserheads

“5bulous Together,” the 2024 edition of Ateneo de Manila Grade School's cherished Grade 5 Father & Son Bonding Night tradition, was held on March 22, 2024. It was an evening brimming with joy, camaraderie, and heartfelt connections. As the clock struck 7:00 PM, male adult companions and sons eagerly gathered in the covered courts for this special event. The atmosphere was set by the lively emcees, Mr. Kyle Lacuna and Mr. Kevin Gerald Agustin, who introduced the event with infectious enthusiasm. The event commenced with a touching opening prayer led by Daddy Den & Pietro Plofino from 5-Maranaw, setting a tone of unity and reflection.

A highlight of the evening was the virtual message and opening remarks by Headmaster Jervy Robles, who artfully connected the theme of ionic bonds to the essence of the Boys’ Bonding Night. Like ionic bonds, one element has to give up or share an electron for another element to gain an electron. Mr. Robles encouraged male adult companions and sons to share an 'ionic bond hug,' symbolizing the enduring connection between them, as the willingness to give up something to gain another is important for dads and sons to form bonds. Mr. Robles ended his message by reminding companions and sons to savor each moment because we never know when such bonding moments can happen again.

The evening's festivities unfolded with exhilarating games such as "Speed Stacks" and the "Ball Hug Relay," punctuated by enthusiastic cheers from each team. The atmosphere was further elevated by a special performance by singer-songwriter Daddy Paolo Santos & his son Seve, who captivated the audience with their rendition of "Just the Two of Us," followed by an encore performance of the iconic "Never Gonna Give You Up." 

The Grade 5 boys surprised their companions with a heartfelt rendition of "Huwag Kang Matakot." This was followed by the exchange of surprise letters, which further strengthened the bond between companions and sons. A touching video presentation showcased cherished memories shared by father and sons.

The awarding ceremony, led by Ms. Maia Asonza (Grade 5 Level Coordinator) and Mrs. Virgie Esteves (Assistant Headmaster for Formation), celebrated the teams' achievements, with 5-Talaandig emerging as the overall winner. Special awards recognized the most energetic, dynamic, enthusiastic, and creative teams, as well as individual contributions such as the BBN Event Name by Jerille Arvie Gelbolingo of 5-Ifugao and the BBN Shirt Design by Daddy Mark Bernal of 5-Ifugao.

After Ms. Asonza delivered her closing remarks and Daddy Anton & Nikolas Chanco of 5-Yakan led the final prayer, a palpable sense of gratitude and reflection permeated the atmosphere. The "5bulous Together" Boys Bonding Night had succeeded in creating lasting memories that would continue to resonate in the hearts of all who attended. Indeed, this tradition stands as a testament to the enduring power of love, unity, and connection, enriching the lives of families within the Ateneo Grade School community and beyond.

To all our Grade 5 boys, as you embark on your journey to becoming men for others, may you always remember this “5bulous” bonding night with your fathers and father figures.