On February 20, 2026, laughter, soft little footsteps, and wide eyed wonder filled the Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. School Library as the Lakbay Bulilit Program came to life. In partnership with Book Nook Surallah, the library warmly welcomed the young learners of Colombasinong Child Development Center from Brgy. Colongulo, Surallah, South Cotabato.

Guided by their teacher, Teacher Yanita C. Natabio, LPT, the children stepped into the library with excitement and curiosity, many of them experiencing a real library visit for the very first time.

What awaited them was more than just a tour. It was a small adventure. The children gathered closely for an engaging storytelling session led by Anzyl Jade C. Camique, LPT. With every page turned and every character brought to life, their eyes sparkled with interest. Giggles and soft whispers of amazement echoed around the room as imagination took over.

After the storytelling, the young visitors eagerly explored the shelves lined with colorful books and learning materials. Some carefully flipped through picture books, while others excitedly pointed at illustrations that caught their attention. In those simple moments, they discovered that books are not just school requirements, they are gateways to magical places, new ideas, and endless possibilities.

The success of the visit was made possible through the support of Sir Lowel D. Pasinag, LPT, MMEM, School Principal, Rhoda Leaf G. Catoto, RSW, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer, Melona F. Barrientos, LPT, ECCD Focal Person, and the teamwork of the HCCCI School Library Personnel, the supportive partners from Book Nook Surallah, and Teacher Yanita C. Natabio, LPT. Together, they created a safe, welcoming space where children felt comfortable, valued, and inspired.

At its heart, the Lakbay Bulilit Program is about giving children the chance to learn beyond the four walls of their classroom. It nurtures early literacy, builds confidence, and gently introduces young learners to the joy of reading. By opening its doors to these young guests, HCCCI helped plant seeds of curiosity that may one day grow into big dreams.

The initiative supports Sustainable Development Goal 4 on Quality Education by promoting access to learning resources that strengthen foundational skills. It also aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 10 on Reduced Inequalities by opening enriching educational spaces to children from different communities. Through strong collaboration, it contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 17 on Partnerships for the Goals, showing how shared efforts can make a meaningful difference in literacy and education.

Although the program was organized by the child development center, HCCCI gladly catered to their visit, ensuring the experience was filled with warmth and learning. As the day came to an end, the children left with bright smiles and stories to tell at home. Their excitement was contagious, a beautiful reminder that sometimes the simplest experiences, like listening to a story or choosing a book, can leave the biggest impact.

Through programs like Lakbay Bulilit, HCCCI continues to nurture young minds and strengthen its bond with the community it serves. Because when children are given access to books, encouragement, and a welcoming space, they do not just read stories, they begin to imagine and write their own.