Class Trip to Zambales: Three Days of Community, Nature, and Sustainability

by Esther Wittstock

From Monday to Wednesday, 13 students from the fourth and fifth grades of the German section, along with three teachers, experienced a very special class trip to Zambales. The destination was the organization Alon and Araw, which is deeply committed to protecting the environment and supporting local fishing families.

The organization works closely with the local community to clean the beach of plastic waste. In return for helping collect trash, families receive food, school supplies, or even educational sponsorships for their children. Our school was also able to contribute in a small way: we distributed food donations to local children and brought school supplies for the upcoming school year.

One of the highlights of the program was learning about recycling. We saw how collected plastic can be turned into sturdy furniture such as chairs and tables — and we got to see the machines and finished products right there on site.

On the second day, we visited an innovative farm that has transformed sandy soil into fertile farmland in an impressive way. The children gained fascinating insights into sustainable agriculture and got up close with animals like chickens, pigs, and cows. Feeding and petting the animals was a special highlight for many and gave valuable lessons on animal welfare and environmental protection.

The interaction with the children from the fishing village was also a moving part of the trip. New friendships and warm connections were made during shared beach games.

Of course, there was plenty of fun too: whether rain or shine, playing in the sea brought the children great joy. The perfect ending was a cozy movie night with popcorn and nachos on the last evening.

Over these three days, there was lots of laughter, learning, and new experiences, but above all, a true sense of community. Friendships were formed or deepened, first connections to secondary school teachers were made, and precious memories created — for some children, a special way to end their time in primary school or at the German European School Manila.