TOGETHER WE THRIVE: A JOURNEY IN COMMUNITY LIVING – Rico John Soliva Laoyon

As I sit down to reflect on my experiences in this loving community, I am filled with gratitude for the life we’ve begun to build here. The overarching theme of “Building Together, Shaping Tomorrow” resonates throughout my family’s journey and captures the essence of our interactions, experiences, and aspirations. Each day brings new opportunities for connection and growth, making every moment count in this vibrant living space.

I still remember that first day almost ten years ago when we moved in. The excitement of unpacking boxes and setting up our new home was mixed with a bit of nervousness. Would we fit in? Would our neighbors be friendly? As soon as we stepped into the lobby, though, friendly smiles and warm hellos welcomed us. It felt like we were stepping into a new family.

That first weekend, we attended a community mass and watching kids run around, laughing and playing, filled my heart with happiness. It was our family’s first taste of what it means to be part of this place. We felt an overwhelming sense of belonging as we joined hands with neighbors during a group prayer, grateful for the connections we were beginning to form.

I met families with children, young professionals, and retired couples—every person with a unique story and perspective. It was the embodiment of “Building Together.” By sharing experiences and resources, we form a strong, interconnected web that enriches our lives. The warmth of the community enveloped us, as we shared smiles and greetings with those around us. It was a beautiful way to kick off this new chapter in our lives, strengthening our ties to the community even more.

Fast forward almost a decade and my journey as an uncle and a member of this amazing community has been nothing short of wonderful. My niece, who is now almost two years old, has become the center of our family and a source of immense joy. Seeing her grow up in this vibrant neighborhood adds a special layer to our experience here. There’s something beautiful about watching her explore her surroundings with curiosity and delight.

One of the greatest joys of living in this community is how everyone has taken her under their wing. It truly feels like village living—neighbors who have become friends and extended family for us all. As she plays in the common areas, she’s greeted with smiles and waves from the security personnel, parents and children living in this community. It’s heartwarming to see her interact with them. Whether they are playing tag or sharing toys in the garden, the joy on their faces is infectious.

I often find myself at the playground, watching my niece as she navigates the swings and slides with an innocent confidence that warms my heart. She may be small, but the energy she brings to the space is monumental. The laughter of children playing nearby creates a joyful atmosphere that echoes through the community. I cherish those afternoons, sipping coffee on a bench, surrounded by a chorus of giggles and shouts of delight. I sometimes think about how lucky she is to grow up in such an encouraging environment, where love and friendship flourish.

As her second birthday approaches, I find myself reflecting on her growth and our experiences together. I can hardly believe how much she has changed in such a short time. From her first steps to her first words, we have shared so many precious moments. As we plan for her birthday celebration, I can feel the excitement in our little family. We want to make it special, not just for her but for the community that has embraced her as one of their own. The way the children come together to play, share, and support one another embodies the idea that no one is ever truly alone. I’ve seen friendships bloom among parents and children, everyone lending a helping hand when needed. I can’t help but feel that our community has created a sense of family for my niece.

Living here has also brought out a sense of responsibility within me as an uncle. I see firsthand how important it is for me to be an active participant in my niece’s life, shaping her and guiding her as she grows. I often take her for walks around our community, exploring the gardens and parks. During these walks, I like to point out the flowers, the trees, and even the birds. She looks up at the sky, eyes wide with wonder, and it makes me cherish those moments even more. I aspire to instill in her a love for nature, community, and the connections we form with others.

The community has also provided fun opportunities for us as we embrace the simple joys of life. Our neighborhood organizes seasonal events, and my niece's first Halloween parading around the block was a delight. Watching her in her little costume, surrounded by other kids dressed as their favorite characters, made my heart swell. Seeing her smile as she walked with her new friends, collecting treats, was a memory I will treasure forever.

Another enriching experience occurred during this past valentine’s day when we participated in a community outdoor movie night. A large screen was set up in the garden, and families gathered with blankets and snacks. My niece was fascinated by the lights and sounds, sitting snugly in my lap. We laughed together, sharing popcorn while her wide eyes absorbed every moment. It felt magical to be surrounded by people who were just as invested in creating happy moments as we were.

As I ponder these experiences, I feel a deep sense of fulfillment. The community we live in has become a part of our journey, with each neighbor contributing to shaping our lives. The friendships we've built and the memories we’ve created together are invaluable.

I look forward to watching my niece grow in this environment, knowing that she will have a wealth of experiences, friendships, and support to rely on as she moves through life. It’s comforting to know that she won’t just have her family cheering her on but a whole community standing beside her, ready to nurture her growth.

As an author, I am a devoted family member who values the importance of community and connection. Having moved into this growing community at the age of 22, while striving to establish my career, I cherish every moment shared with my loved ones, especially my niece, who has brought a new level of joy into our lives. The kindness and support I have received from this community have helped me grow into a more loving and compassionate person, allowing me to nurture relationships through participation in neighborhood events and by supporting friends in times of need. The theme “DMCI Homes: Building Together, Shaping Tomorrow” resonates deeply with me, as I witness firsthand how our community fosters an environment where everyone contributes to each other's happiness and growth. Together, we create meaningful connections that uplift one another, ensuring that no one feels alone while collectively shaping a brighter future.

In this shared journey, I am reminded that life is not just about individual accomplishments. It’s about the relationships we cultivate and the communities we build, with each neighbor contributing to shaping our lives. “Together We Thrive” serves as my mantra—an acknowledgment of the beauty and strength found in collaboration. Here’s to the moments we’ve shared, the experiences yet to come, and the undeniable truth that together, we can create a thriving community where everyone feels at home.