May 12, 2026
Tzu Chi marks 60 years with 3-in-1 celebration in BTCC
By Thania Florendo
In a world often marked by conflict and division, the Tzu Chi Foundation delivered a powerful message of peace, unity, and compassion through its annual 3-in-1 celebration held on May 8 at the Jing Si Hall, Buddhist Tzu Chi Campus. The convergence of milestones—Buddha Day, Mother’s Day, and Tzu Chi Day—is anchored by its 60th anniversary in Taiwan, 32 years of service in the Philippines, and the 90th birthday of the founder, Dharma Master Cheng Yen.
With this year’s theme, “May we never forget the initial spirit of the Bamboo Bank. May we always remember our great vow to uphold the Tzu Chi Path,” the ceremony took place in a space transformed by crystal Buddha statues, flowers, and solemn ceremonial arrangements. Hundreds of volunteers, monks, scholars, beneficiaries, and guests gathered in quiet unity, setting the tone for a program centered on gratitude and mindful reflection.
The observance opened with a graceful Tai Chi performance by Tzu Chi Youth volunteers, followed by a powerful drum presentation that echoed through the hall—symbolizing the awakening of hearts and gathering of the faithful. An incense offering and chant followed, with prayers for a world guided by wisdom, righteousness, and compassion.
At the heart of the ceremony was the Buddha Bathing Ritual, where participants gently touched scented water, made vows, received Bodhi leaves, and offered prayers for all beings. Eco-friendly Bodhi leaves from the Taiwan headquarters were used in place of fresh flowers. Each leaf carried a scripture verse along with QR codes for the bathing ceremony music and Dharma chanting, allowing participants to deepen their appreciation of the Dharma. The attendees moved in silence and in coordination, which helped create an atmosphere of discipline, reverence, and shared reflection.
The meaning of the celebration was most deeply felt by those experiencing Tzu Chi for the first time.
Maximina Secretario, 59, a vendor from San Mateo, Rizal, attended after being invited by the foundation’s volunteers. A former beneficiary of financial and grocery assistance during calamities, she described the experience as simple but emotional.
“As a first-time attendee, I personally felt closer to the Buddha. I’m happy—I can’t exactly explain what I’m feeling.”
Also from San Mateo, Dionila Oca, 61, shared that some of her relatives had benefited from Tzu Chi’s medical assistance programs. Drawn by curiosity and repeated stories of the foundation’s work, she said the experience allowed her to finally see its mission firsthand.
“Something is calling me, and I really wanted to see what and how Tzu Chi does things, and now I get to experience this personally.”
For Tzu Chi scholar James Patrick Quesada from the University of Caloocan City, despite having no idea about the event, he shared that he came with an open mind and curiosity about the foundation’s traditions and culture. Despite the long hours of practice and standing throughout the preparations, he said the experience became more meaningful as he understood the deeper purpose behind the ceremony.
“It was all worth it because the time I’ve spent here made me realize and reflect that this is not just about standing and singing along, but commemorating what Tzu Chi is all about—what the 60 years of the foundation and the 32 years in the Philippines are all about, and why it is important to follow the Tzu Chi path. My greatest realization is that there is a path in life that you can take for you to become someone better in the future.”
For graduating scholar Nhorhabib Acraman of Technological University of the Philippines, the ceremony marked a personal turning point. Raised by a single mother, he once considered leaving school to work—but the scholarship changed his trajectory entirely.
“When I became a scholar, it became a life-changing moment for me. It wasn’t just financial support; we were nurtured to keep striving and remain grateful.”
Attending his final Buddha Day as a scholar, Acraman said the moment became even more significant as he witnessed the groundbreaking of the future Tzu Chi Medical Center.
Tzu Chi volunteer Jessica Mae Qiu, one of the event hosts, shared that what made the celebration even more meaningful was the foundation’s 60th anniversary and the 90th birthday of Master Cheng Yen.
She emphasized that the heart of the gathering was gratitude toward life, nature, and the people who make compassion visible in everyday acts. “It’s the selfless love that we receive every day.”
Looking ahead, she expressed hope that the spirit of unity would continue to grow in the years to come.
“As we celebrate this 60th milestone, let us hope that we can walk together toward a century. We’re truly grateful to everyone who became part of this ceremony, and we hope to see them in our future activities still.”
Tzu Chi volunteers guided the celebration, reflecting a life rooted in compassion, gratitude, and service.
Tzu Chi volunteers remained steadfast in their commitment to make the event a solemn gathering for reflection, prayer, and unity.
Tzu Chi volunteer Jessica Mae Qiu (right), who shared hosting duties with Tzu Chi volunteer Kinlon Fan, chose to dedicate her time to the celebration despite originally planning to visit her grandfather in China. She reflected her deep sense of commitment and responsibility in her service to the community.
Venerable Masters and Dharma Masters graced the celebration with their presence, offering spiritual guidance and leading attendees in prayer and reflection.
A powerful drum performance echoed through the venue, symbolizing the awakening of lost hearts and the gathering of the faithful in unity and purpose.
The performance was a heartfelt and full-fledged effort by the Tzu Chi Youth.
Graceful and rhythmic, the Tai Chi performance mirrors the order and serenity of the Buddha Bathing Ceremony, highlighting unity among participants and harmony with the environment.
Dharma Masters and Venerable Masters were the first to carry out the ritual on stage.
As a gesture of blessing, participants received Bodhi leaves symbolizing a purified mind and the cultivation of wholesome thoughts to help build a pure land on Earth.
Lotus candles illuminated a shared moment of prayer for the world, reflecting the enduring belief that beauty and goodness can arise even from hardship.
The presence of Tzu Chi scholars at the event symbolized unity and their commitment to the teachings of Master Cheng Yen, which inspired them toward a brighter and more compassionate future.
Graduating scholar Nhorhabib Acraman of Technological University of the Philippines (center) attends Buddha Day, possibly his last as a scholar, but hopes to return soon.
Tzu Chi scholar James Patrick Quesada of the University of Caloocan City (center) called the lotus candle lighting a “core memory,” describing the moment as magical.
Guests and attendees pause for a shared moment of reflection and prayer.
Guests and attendees pause for a shared moment of reflection and prayer.
Maximina Secretario, invited by neighbors and Tzu Chi volunteers from San Mateo, Rizal, joyfully attended the celebration and received Mother’s Day flowers.
First-time attendee Dionila Oca felt drawn to Tzu Chi and gained a deeper understanding of its mission through the experience.
The act of raising lotus candles reflects devotion to the Buddha and a unified hope for purity in hearts, harmony in society, and a disaster-free world.
The lit candle symbolizes the light in one’s heart, representing wisdom that dispels ignorance.
Everyone takes turns in the ritual to experience its meaning.
Everyone takes turns in the ritual to experience its meaning.
Everyone takes turns in the ritual to experience its meaning.
Tzu Chi staff stepped out of their offices and into the celebration, joining the community in a solemn moment of prayer and reflection.
After the event, Tzu Chi volunteers warmly shared tokens of appreciation and Mother’s Day flowers with the attendees.
United in presence and purpose, everyone stood with a shared vow of brighter days ahead, devoted to walking the path the Buddha took.