A "choice" night for bonding

       For some time, Friday, March 17, 2023, was a much-anticipated day for our Grade 5 students because this was marked as the Boys’ Bonding Night. Pre-pandemic, the bonding night was such an important date in every Grade 5 Atenean’s life, and we couldn’t be happier that it was back onsite. When the day finally came, our enthusiastic lads spent quality time with their fathers and/or male companions to celebrate the Boys’ Bonding Night (“I Choose You”) at the Ateneo de Manila Grade School Covered Courts. Most came with their dads, while some brought along uncles or big brothers. There were even a handful of moms present, too. 

Though it wasn’t an overnight activity like it was before, the boys had a great time with the activities that were prepared for them. Each group of four sections prepared a cheer that was presented in front of everyone, the cheers being done alternately with the games that were facilitated by our beloved PE teachers. We were also happy to see our key administrators (the “A-team”), led by Headmaster Jervy Robles, who shared his experiences growing up with his dad and then later, being a father to his children.

       The highlight of the evening was the exchange of letters bearing deeply personal messages between the son and his father/companion– an event that will perhaps be etched in the minds and hearts of both for the rest of their lives. After the program proper, the participants were given ample time for more “bonding moments,” such as playing basketball, going on a night walk, taking an evening snack, or doing some other activity together. 

It was certainly a night that the participants were all glad to have “chosen” to attend.