History of Camp-O-Rama

Camp-O-Rama, a hallmark Alpha Phi Omega (APO) event in the Bicol Region, is deeply rooted in the organization’s commitment to leadership, friendship, and service. Its inception resulted from a vision shared by dedicated APO brothers who sought to create a regional event that embodied the principles of scouting. More than that, it was a platform to strengthen the unity and uphold the camaraderie of APO members across the region.

The Concept and Early Inspiration

Camp-O-Rama’s inception directly resulted from a vision to unify Alpha Phi Omega (APO) members across the Bicol Region. The initiative stemmed from a commitment made by Bro. Macario Boy Apin upon his election as Regional Development Director (RDD) for Bicol for Development Year 1993-1995. The election took place in Naga City, and one of his primary objectives was to organize a significant regional activity.

The origin of Camp-O-Rama can be traced back to 1993, during a casual jam session when a group of APO brothers conceived the idea of a camping event inspired by Boy Scout traditions. Key figures in this initiative included Bro. Macario “Boy” Apin and Bro. Jerry Alvarado, along with other dedicated members. Their collaborative spirit and commitment to the principles of scouting were instrumental in bringing this vision to life.

Bro. Macario Boy Apin held:

The regional activity that I envisioned was the one that would unite APO in the whole Bicol Region because I observed that there were plenty of APO activities conducted on the provincial level but were not elevated to the regional level. My ultimate dream was to have Camp O Rama on the national scope and to be held in between the National Convention.

Organizing the composition of the RDC Executive Committee was crucial because we needed people who shared the same inspiration. We needed a team that was cohesive, responsive, available, and very willing to serve APO Bicol.”

Bro. Macario Apin swiftly assembled a team of dedicated brothers and sisters who were responsive and willing to serve APO in the Bicol region:

• Bro. Bong Lorico – Deputy RDD
• Bro. Art Estrella – Secretary
• Bro. Gerry Alvarado – Deputy for Alumni
• Bro. Joel Co – Area Coordinator for Area 1 (Camarines Norte)
• Bro. Edong Surtida – Area Coordinator for Area 2A (Metro Naga)
• Bros. Alvin Real / Bogart Praxides – Area Coordinators for Area 2B (Rinconada)
• Bro. Rene Tik Lariosa – Area Coordinator for Area 3 (Albay), later succeeded by Bro. Cesar Bachiller
• Sis. Ning De Vera – Area Coordinator for Sorsogon
• Bro. Tito Rodolfo – Area Coordinator for Catanduanes
• Bros. Romy Atacador / Janus Tuason – Area Coordinators for Masbate

Naming and First Camp-O-Rama Event

Recognizing a need to reinforce leadership credibility and rekindle the spirit of unity within APO Bicol, the council organized an event demonstrating APO’s core scouting principles. During a casual gathering, Bro. Jerry Alvarado suggested naming the activity “APO Camp-O-Rama,” drawing inspiration from “Bola-Rama” or “Dance O Rama.” The name was well received, and the officers officially adopted ” Camp-O-Rama “.

Bro. Art Estrella carefully drafted its entire structure. Bro. Joel Co, Area Coordinator for Area 1 in Bagasbas, Daet, Camarines Norte, hosted the RDC meeting, during which the council thoroughly discussed the final planning. Initially scheduled for December 10-12, 1993, the council had to postpone the first Camp-O-Rama due to Typhoon Monang, which left Bicol in a state of calamity. The event was rescheduled for February 25-27, 1994, to coincide with the EDSA Revolution commemoration, ensuring greater participation. Hosted at the Bicol University School of Arts and Trade (BUSAT) Campus in Legazpi City, the event was a remarkable success despite initial skepticism and financial challenges.

The Camp-O-Rama Experience

The First Camp-O-Rama program included structured activities to enhance leadership, fellowship, and service. These activities comprised tent pitching, flag-raising ceremonies, bonfires, fellowship gatherings, area presentations, games, leadership and first aid training, service projects, and traditional morning prayer.

To ensure the event’s smooth execution, a Camp Chief or Director was appointed to oversee the schedule. The leadership and first aid training sessions were divided between alumni and chapter leaders while all participants engaged in a community service initiative.

Bro. Jonathan Navarete, a seasoned scouter from Naga City and a key figure in establishing several APO chapters in Bicol, played a pivotal role in designing the evening rites of Camp-O-Rama. He introduced the concept of a torch-lit bonfire ceremony and the passage through the Chambers of Leadership, Friendship, and Service, aligning with APO’s cardinal principles. This component became a hallmark of the event and was instrumental in enriching the scouting experience.

Over the years, Camp-O-Rama has evolved, incorporating additional activities while maintaining its essence. Despite changes, the event continues to foster camaraderie among APO members. However, the importance of a centralized fellowship night, fostering inter-area interactions, remains a significant aspect that needs to be preserved.

The first Camp-O-Rama, held at the Bicol University School of Arts and Trade in Legazpi City, was successful due to the unyielding commitment and financial sacrifices made by the RDC officers, area coordinators, and alumni members. Despite skepticism and discouragement from some quarters, the organizers’ collective determination prevailed.

Legacy and Continued Impact

Over the years, Camp-O-Rama has evolved while preserving its core mission. Despite changes, the event continues to foster camaraderie and rekindle the scouting spirit among APO members. However, the importance of a centralized fellowship night, fostering inter-area interactions, remains a significant aspect that APO participants should observe.

Bro. Macario Apin firmly asserted that any claims that Camp-O-Rama drew inspiration from previous camping activities in the Bicol Region are unfounded. He emphasized that Camp-O-Rama was originally conceived as a bold and distinct initiative crafted to fulfill the Regional Development Council’s mission of unifying Alpha Phi Omega (APO) members throughout Bicol. The initiative was a groundbreaking endeavor aimed at creating a unique event that would embody the organization’s core values and foster camaraderie among its members without any direct ties to prior camping initiatives.

It has inspired similar events in other regions, including CampLABARZON in CALABARZON and a similar initiative at Mt. Makiling.

Bro. Macario “Boy” Apin aptly stated, “Success has many fathers, but failure is an orphan.”

Bro. Macario Boy Apin emphasized no individual can claim sole credit for the establishment of Camp-O-Rama; it was, in essence, a collaborative endeavor fueled by the shared belief and dedication of those who recognized its importance. This initiative was the result of a united effort, demonstrating the strength of teamwork and a common vision among all involved.

Through Camp-O-Rama, the core principles of Leadership, Friendship, and Service thrive, reinforcing the connections of brotherhood and sisterhood within Alpha Phi Omega.