Bontoc Tae Bo workout raises books for libraries

By Alpine L. Killa

BONTOC, Mountain Province – Tae Bo and book enthusiasts recently gathered here in a mass workout and book donation drive which netted the Bontoc Municipal Library and at Barangay Mainit Reading Center a total of 594 assorted books for reading and research materials to be used by the public.

The reading materials included text books, novels and children’s books donated by 79 participants who registered for the Taebook, an activity initiated by the Bontoc municipal government through the Bontoc municipal library last November.

The participants were adults and children who are sports enthusiasts and library advocates.

Librarian Chamreine Casiwen said November was declared Library Information Services (LIS) Month by Proclamation No. 837 s.1991.

To celebrate this, the Bontoc Municipal Library thought of an activity that promotes health and wellness, at the same time raise awareness on the invaluable service that the libraries and information center render.

This includes providing data and materials for the lifelong knowledge and learning, for research and leisure.

She said that a good exercise is the Tae Bo- a total body fitness system that incorporates martial arts techniques such as kicks and punches.

This program which covers 20 sessions uses the motions of martial arts at a rapid pace designed to promote fitness.

Dubbed “Taebook”, participants did not pay registration fee.

Instead, each participant donated at least three books as   registration.

             Casiwen added that she was overwhelmed by number of individuals who registered and participated in the activity at the Bontoc municipal capitol, from Monday to Friday.

She said most participants completed 20 sessions while some did not, as they were nurses on duty at the hospital.

She thanked all those who have been part of the Taebook adding that the books donated are of great help to everyone, especially to the students and researchers.  

              Casiwen likewise thanked Tae Bo Instructors Clement Tudlong and Marcelina Ongan.

Meanwhile, Casiwen said the Bontoc Municipal Library is still accepting donations of reading and reference materials.

              The Bontoc Municipal Library, located at the 3rd Floor, Bontoc Municipal Capitol is open Mondays to Fridays from 8 to 5 p.m.