By: Janis Yambot, Political Science Society Manifesto
The soft hum of Burnham Park on an ordinary weekend turned into a symphony of stories, laughter, and learning on November 22 and 23, 2024. The Political Science Society, in collaboration with the Burnham-Legarda Barangay, transformed the park’s shaded corners into a haven of discovery for the community’s youngest members.
The event, was not just a project; it was a celebration of collaboration, creativity, and the boundless joy of books. Beneath the towering pine trees, makeshift reading corners sprang to life, brimming with colorful picture books, captivating stories, and eager young readers.
From the moment the children arrived, their excitement was palpable. Members of the Political Science Society, clad in their shirts and armed with smiles, welcomed the kids into a world beyond their imagination. The PSS students served not just as facilitators but as storytellers, mentors, and, most importantly, friends.
The day’s activities were thoughtfully curated. Days were dedicated to story time sessions, where the kids sat cross-legged on mats, their eyes wide as they listened to tales of heroes, adventure and dreams. This is about more than just books, It’s about showing these kids that learning is fun and that they have the power to create their own stories.
The collaboration with the Burnham-Legarda Barangay brought a sense of community and belonging. As the event came to a close, the children left with more than handmade crafts and borrowed books. They carried with them the warmth of a weekend well spent, the encouragement of a community rooting for their success, and the spark of curiosity that only stories can ignite.
For the Political Science Society, the said Library Work was a reminder of their responsibility not just to understand governance but to practice it through service. The weekend reaffirmed that leadership begins with listening, and change starts with the simplest of gestures—a story read, a hand held, and a smile shared.
Burnham Park may have returned to its usual rhythm, but for those who were there, the echoes of that joyful weekend linger. It wasn’t just about books, it was about building a brighter tomorrow, one story at a time.