Storytelling and Book-Giving Project Inspires Kids to Choose Kindness

By MS Spotlight

On a Friday morning in Quezon City, 80 elementary students discovered that a single act of kindness can change lives. 

Last July 31, the Storytelling and Book-Giving Project of Tails, Trees and Seas Organization Inc. (TTSOI) and Save Animals of Love and Light (SAVE ALL) was launched at the Bago Bantay Elementary School among Grade 4 and Grade 5 pupils.

The initiative used the power of storytelling to nurture compassion, empathy, and responsible citizenship among young learners.

At the heart of the program was the children’s book, “Desiree Carlos: Ang Journalist na Tagapagligtas ng mga Strays,” written and illustrated by Lalaine Manaog-Danao. The story introduces children to the inspiring journey of Desiree Carlos as an animal rescuer and animal welfare advocate. Carlos’ dedication to rescuing abandoned and abused dogs and cats demonstrates how one person’s compassion can create meaningful change in the lives of both animals and people.

The storytelling session went beyond entertaining the children. It became a meaningful conversation about why kindness matters. Pupils learned that being kind to animals teaches empathy, patience, responsibility, and respect for life—values that also shape how people treat one another.

Organizers explained that when children learn to care for vulnerable animals, they develop compassion that extends to their families, classmates, neighbors, and communities. The session emphasized that kindness benefits everyone. Acts of compassion reduce cruelty, encourage volunteerism, strengthen communities, and inspire hope. A simple act of helping an animal can encourage others to do the same, creating a ripple effect that reaches far beyond a single rescue.

In today’s digital world, where stories are shared with thousands of people online, one inspiring example of kindness can motivate countless others to become more compassionate in their own lives.

Each student received a copy of the book donated by animal lovers. This will hopefully allow the students to continue reflecting on its message with their families. The organizers believe that books are powerful tools for character formation and that stories can help shape a generation that values kindness, respect, and compassion toward all living beings.

The project was warmly welcomed by the school’s principal, Dr. Teofila Oben-Baconawa, whose support and approval made the activity possible. 

The organizers also expressed their sincere appreciation to faculty members Juvy Escalante, Edna Estrada, Loudeth Perocho , and Armando R. Mamaclay Jr.for their invaluable assistance in coordinating the event and ensuring the pupils’ enthusiastic participation.

Adding warmth to the occasion were meals generously prepared and donated by Niko Salgado, Tani Benedito, and Arminda Santiago. These made the event a more joyful celebration of learning and sharing.

Encouraged by the overwhelming response of the children and the school community, more storytelling and book-giving activities are being planned for public elementary schools and children in barangays.  “Our mission is not simply to distribute books,” Manaog-Danao said, “We want to inspire children to become compassionate individuals who understand that kindness is a strength.”

She added: “When children learn to care for animals, they also learn empathy, responsibility, generosity, and respect for every form of life. These are values that help build safer communities and a more humane society.” 

By promoting respect for animals, organizers believe they are also promoting respect for humanity and the environment.

Following the success of its inaugural Storytelling and Book-Giving Project, TTSOI  and Save ALL are inviting corporations, foundations, civic organizations, schools, and compassionate individuals to become partners in expanding the initiative. Sponsorships of the storytelling session and donation of copies of the book will help the program reach more underserved public schools throughout the Philippines. “Every book donated is an opportunity to change a child’s heart,” the organizers said. “Every sponsor becomes a partner in raising a generation that chooses compassion over cruelty, kindness over indifference, and responsibility over neglect. Together, we can bring these stories—and the values they teach—to thousands more Filipino children. Those who want to help can message us in our Facebook pages,” they added.

As TTSOI and Save ALL  continue their mission, they remain steadfast in their belief that lasting social change begins with education. One story, one child, one act of kindness at a time, they hope to build a future where compassion for animals,people and the environment becomes a way of life.

This article also appears in the Manila Standard.