The 123rd birth anniversary of Josefa Llanes Escoda, national heroine and founder of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines, is commemorated on September 20 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Her birth in 1898, an important milestone year in Philippine history, heralded her significant role as a woman, martyr, and war heroine in the future Philippines. Having lived through the horrors of war, Escoda was the epitome of courage, bravery, and patriotism. In her last breath, she recognized the important roles women played in social work and in revolution.
Escoda was right when she placed her faith in Filipino women. When she founded the Girl Scouts of the Philippines, she knew the Organization would perpetuate her legacy. With COVID-19 being likened to an invisible war, the Girl Scouts of the Philippines continues adapting to “new realities” while pursuing its mission of bringing learning opportunities to girls and young women.
Every year, Girl Scouts celebrate Escoda’s legacy with a Girl Scout Week. This year marks the second commemoration of her birth anniversary under the pandemic. Despite community quarantines and stay-at-home orders, Girl Scouts participate in activities through online and digital platforms. From September 19 to 25, daily activities are offered. The theme, Walking Together, Walking Far, unites Girl Scouts as they celebrate the sisterhood of Girl Scouting to discover, connect, and take action on issues that affect them.
Escoda’s 123rd birth anniversary comes at a very important period in our history – the election in 2022. As one of the influential Filipinas responsible for women suffrage in 1937, Escoda’s role is synonymous with civic duty. Continuing her legacy, the Girl Scouts of the Philippines launches a campaign with pop band Ben & Ben and PROBE Philippines encouraging the youth to register until September 30, 2021 and to vote on May 9, 2022. All these toward the making of a better Philippines.
Let your daughters, sisters, nieces, and friends experience the joy in serving others through Girl Scouting! Contact your local Council to register and help change lives and communities.
#GirlScoutWeek2021
#WalkingTogetherWalkingFar