Twenty active (25) members of the Hope Builders Organization Negros Island Inc. (HBONI) gathered for Pagtililipon, a two-day event aimed at renewing their commitment and camaraderie, held on July 5–6, 2025, at Balicaocao Highland Resort in Kabankalan City.

The event was held in partnership with the City Government and the Local Youth Development Office (LYDO) of Kabankalan, bringing together Hope Builders from across the island to share stories, relive milestones, and reignite the passion that fuels their service-driven mission and volunteerism.

Rooted in the Hiligaynon word tililipon, meaning a gathering or coming together, Pagtililipon was a time of reflection, purpose, and unity.

Through team-building activities, sharing sessions, and discussions, the event aimed to strengthen the bonds among members and reaffirm their collective dedication to HBONI’s core values: hope, optimism, passion, and empathy.

Participants engaged in interactive games and discussions that emphasized the importance of teamwork, empathy, and community-driven action.

The event also featured sessions that highlighted HBONI’s milestones, challenges, and future initiatives, reinforcing the idea that every member plays a vital role in shaping a better and more resilient Negros Island.

Diego Agaton, a new HBONI member, reflected on his first-time experience with the group.

“At first, I thought the activities would be just like any typical community gathering—maybe a little overwhelming—and something I would just observe as a first-timer. I was unsure of what to expect, especially since I didn’t know many people or how involved I would need to be,” he said.

Agaton added that, “I understand now that Pagtililipon is more than just an event—it is a community, a safe space for growth, collaboration, and shared purpose. I witnessed genuine care, teamwork, and inspiring stories that made me reflect on my own role and potential within the group.”

The Hope Builders also conducted a planning session during the event, discussing ways forward for the communities and the youth of Negros Island.

The success of Pagtililipon 2025 marked another chapter in HBONI’s evolving story as it continues to inspire young leaders across the island, carrying with them the values of hope, optimism, passion, and empathy in the name of service and volunteerism.*