The story of how an 11-year-old boy helped the police in tracking down a thief to return a pair of earrings to a schoolteacher took centerstage in the Basadours’ storytelling at the Cebu City Public Library held last Aug. 29.
Written and illustrated by two members of the Basadours, “Keybird: Ang Batang Bayani” (Keybird: The Boy Hero) was told to children participants from barangay Hipodromo by the Basadours team of volunteer-storytellers.
“We wanted to impart the lesson that ordinary people can do extraordinary things if they are sincere in their intentions. The story of Keybird is very close to home that’s why we decided to share his story in this session,” said Niki Reynes, activity lead for the Aug. 29 session that carried the theme “Everyday Heroes” which emphasized that heroism can be done through little acts of kindness and compassion.
Keybird, who is now 23 years old and a college student at the Asian College of Technology, was also present to inspire the children about his life experiences.
Keybird said he was also a snatcher having lived on the streets with his mother. He experienced stealing clothes and toys in a downtown mall in order to buy food.
His involvement with the local church group changed him for the better. He entered first grade when he was nine years old.
Because of his heroism, Keybird was awarded by the Cebu City Government in 2004. He was featured in different newspapers in Cebu and the Philippines. His story was published in the “Everyday Heroes” section of Reader’s Digest – Asia. ABS-CBN’s longest running drama anthology, Maalaala Mo Kaya, featured Keybird’s life story.
After the storytelling session, Keybird spent time to interact with the children.
“Always be good and listen to your parents. Extend help to the people who ask for your help because you never know how much that mean to them and… don’t forget to study really well,” Keybird said in Cebuano.
Meanwhile, the Basadours will hold a “Yoga for Beginners” session on Sept. 5 at 2 p.m. at the BPI Library near Magellan’s Cross.
This is part of the group’s Learning and Sharing Sessions to personally and professionally enriched the knowledge and skills of its members and interested participants. This event is open to the public. Bring your mats and wear comfortable clothes.
For more details, please check the Basadours’ website (www.basadours.org) or its Facebook page. The group can be reached at [email protected] and (0923) 2783261.
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