Handog Lingap 2025 was a landmark event that brought together over 400 participants, including SPED (Special Education) students, parents, teachers, and coaches, for a day dedicated to sports, education, and life-saving skills. This inspiring initiative aimed to foster inclusivity and empower individuals with diverse abilities through meaningful activities. The event highlighted the importance of breaking barriers and creating opportunities for all.
The success of this event was made possible by the collaboration of various organizations and individuals who share a vision of inclusivity. Among them were the Bert Lozada Swim School (BLSS), the Bert Lozada Foundation, the Philippine Red Cross, and Ms. Amcy Esteban of DepEd Manila. Their contributions underscored the power of collective effort in driving social change.
The Legacy of Bert Lozada Swim School
A Visionary in Swimming Education
Since its establishment in 1956 by Remberto “Bert” Lozada, the Bert Lozada Swim School (BLSS) has been a pioneer in swimming education in the Philippines. Dubbed “Tito Bert,” Lozada transformed the teaching of swimming by creating new instructional techniques that focused on stroke mechanics and emotional support for students. From newborns to competitive swimmers, his teaching methods catered to students of all ages and skill levels.
Lozada’s impact is not only on swimming styles but on making swimming a skill necessary for survival, health, and individual development. His own programs have graduated Olympians Eric Buhain and Roselle Papa, to mention a few, while also rescuing lives by educating through water safety.
BLSS Today: Expanding Horizons
BLSS has grown from a single venue at YMCA Manila to over 56 branches nationwide, making it the largest swim school in the country. From introductory classes to competitive training, this institution provides a wide range of programs. Its initiatives like “Conquer Aquaphobia” address water trauma among children, ensuring that every learner feels safe and confident.
Angelo Lozada, BLSS COO, emphasizes the importance of swimming for Filipinos living in an archipelago surrounded by water. Through their latest program “WeSwim,” BLSS continues to inspire individuals to embrace swimming as a vital life skill.
Inclusive Swimming: A Highlight of Handog Lingap 2025
Championing Accessibility
Coach Gelo Lozada played a pivotal role in promoting inclusive swimming during Handog Lingap 2025. His efforts reflect BLSS’s commitment to ensuring that swimming is accessible to everyone, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities. Inclusive swimming not only builds confidence but also fosters independence among SPED students.
Life-Saving Skills: A Collaboration with the Philippine Red Cross
First Aid Training for Empowerment
During this event, the Philippine Red Cross conducted vital first-aid training sessions aimed at empowering participants with essential life-saving skills. This initiative brought together over 400 individuals, including SPED students and parents, fostering a sense of hope, passion, and purpose within the community. The training underscored the crucial role of preparedness in safeguarding lives by equipping attendees with practical knowledge to respond effectively during emergencies.
The program also aligned with the event’s overarching theme of empowerment, highlighting how readiness and proper training can transform ordinary individuals into capable first responders. Ultimately, the Philippine Red Cross’s efforts at this event reinforced the importance of community resilience and the collective responsibility to promote safety and well-being for all.
Advocating for SPED Students in Sports
DepEd Manila’s Role
Ms. Amcy Esteban, a Master Teacher II at Legarda Elementary School under DepEd Manila, has been a dedicated advocate for the inclusion of Special Education (SPED) students in sports activities, recognizing the vital role these activities play in their holistic development. Her advocacy was prominently showcased during this event, where she emphasized how sports serve as a powerful medium to enhance both the physical capabilities and emotional well-being of children with special needs.
Through her efforts, Ms. Esteban has helped break down barriers that often limit SPED students from participating in mainstream sports, promoting a more inclusive environment within the educational system. Her work aligns with DepEd’s broader initiatives to integrate sports and arts education for special needs learners, fostering their confidence and social skills alongside physical health. She continues to transform perceptions and create meaningful experiences that empower SPED students to thrive both on and off the field by championing these opportunities.
Organizing Excellence: The Role of JCI Manila
Leadership and Dedication
Handog Lingap 2025 was spearheaded by Project Chairman Paolo Clavel and his Baby Jaycee group under JCI Manila. Their dedication ensured the seamless execution of this impactful event. JCI Manila’s commitment to community development continues to inspire initiatives that promote inclusivity.
Key Takeaway
Handog Lingap 2025 stands as a testament to what can be achieved when organizations and individuals come together with a shared purpose. Through sports, education, and life-saving skills training, this event broke barriers and empowered participants to envision a more inclusive future.
The legacy of Bert Lozada Swim School serves as an enduring reminder that inclusivity starts with accessibility—whether it’s learning to swim or participating in sports. With initiatives like Handog Lingap 2025 paving the way, society moves closer to embracing diversity and creating opportunities for all.
