Our team ventured out to the serene Alab Cabin in Tanay, Rizal—a cozy retreat that promised relaxation and team-building away from the office’s hustle. With three vehicles packed and spirits high, we set off on our journey, eager for the day ahead.
Upon arrival, we quickly dove into setting up, with one group preparing a sumptuous lunch while others organized the necessary materials for our activities. The highlight of our noon was the boodle fight—a communal feast that had us enjoying delicious food while admiring the breathtaking views outside.
Our afternoon was packed with engaging activities designed to strengthen our teamwork and test our creativity. Led by the charismatic Sir August and the ever-energetic Ms. Faith, we kicked off with the formation of teams. Each group was tasked with coming up with a unique team name, a vibrant tiktok dance, and a spirited team yell. The stakes were high—the team with the most impactful presentation would win!
We then dove into a series of team games:
- Pass the Message: This game emphasized the importance of clear communication within our company, showcasing how vital accurate information dissemination is for achieving our objectives efficiently.
- Fill Me Up: Testing our coordination and teamwork, each team member had to carefully transfer water to a bottle. This game not only fostered unity but also highlighted our individual differences and how they contribute to the team’s dynamics.
- Trust Walk: Blindfolded, team members had to navigate a path littered with cups filled with water, relying entirely on guidance from their teammates. This activity underscored the essential trust we must place in our leaders and colleagues alike.
- Longest Line with a Twist: In a frantic rush, teams scrambled to assemble the longest line possible using objects found in our surroundings, excluding personal belongings. This game was a lively test of strategy and quick thinking.
Each activity brought laughter and light-hearted competition, allowing us to connect on a deeper level and learn valuable life lessons. As night enveloped the cabin, we gathered around the bonfire, its warm glow setting the perfect stage for a deeper, more introspective activity. Given the opportunity to express hidden gratitude or thoughts, each of us was invited to tap a colleague on the shoulder while everyone’s eyes were closed. The person who tapped would then open up about their feelings or share a message with the tapped individual. Initially, this started as a light-hearted exercise, but as the night deepened, so did our conversations.
Gradually, barriers began to break down. Shyness turned into courage, and fun morphed into heartfelt openness. One by one, we voiced our appreciation for each other, acknowledging the unique paths that had brought us together at Prodigitality—our “new home.” This moment of sharing not only highlighted our individual contributions but also underscored how these differences were integral to our collective growth and success.
The pinnacle of this emotional engagement came when Sir August, moved by the affirmations and sincere words from his team, shared his own heartfelt gratitude. Viewing us not just as colleagues but as a family, he expressed his appreciation for the support and commitment everyone showed. His words resonated deeply, leading to a spontaneous round of applause and warm, comforting hugs. This poignant moment not only brought us closer but also reinforced the values of unity and respect that are the bedrock of our company culture.
Night of Gratitude
This bonfire was more than just a casual gathering; it was a profound exchange of respect and gratitude that would strengthen our bonds for a long time to come. As the bonfire dimmed, the group dispersed for some personal time. Some of us chose to catch up on sleep under the starlit sky, finding cozy spots around the cabin, while others stayed awake, embracing the tranquility of the night and waiting for the sunrise. This peaceful interlude allowed everyone to reflect on the experiences shared and recharge for the next day’s adventures.
The following morning, Team Matthew took the lead in preparing breakfast, setting us up with the energy needed for the day ahead. Soon after, we made our way to the stunning Daraitan River. The beauty of the lush surroundings was breathtaking, and as we approached our cottage, the excitement was palpable.
Sir August kicked off the activities with a Treasure Hunt, challenging us to find 17 hidden 20-peso coins within our vicinity. Each coin found was worth 200 pesos, adding a competitive edge to the hunt. Cheers and laughter filled the air as each discovery was made, bringing a playful spirit to our morning.
New Process Announcements
Amidst the fun, JC and Edbert introduced important updates about new processes to be adopted by our expanding team. This included the announcement of new team leaders and the formation of designated departments aimed at streamlining our operations and enhancing efficiency.
Celebrating these updates, we captured the moment with a team photo, the majestic Daraitan River providing a stunning backdrop, symbolizing both the literal and metaphorical flow of our team’s progress.
A truly remarkable aspect of this retreat was the inclusivity extended by Prodigitality’s generous owner. Not only were employees invited, but their families too, enriching the experience and strengthening community ties. Joining us was also a long-time friend of Sir August, a witness to the growth and evolution of Prodigitality over the years.
The day was not complete without immersing ourselves in the lively waters of Daraitan River. It was a moment to connect with nature and each other, freely discussing various topics and ideas in the refreshing embrace of the river.
Teambuilding Highlight
As our retreat drew to a close, a profound sense of gratitude permeated through each of us. It was a moment of reflection, where the value of our shared experiences became fully apparent. Each activity, each shared meal, and every laughter-filled moment by the river not only brought us closer to nature but also to one another. The ties that bind us as a team had grown not just thicker but also stronger, creating a network of relationships built on mutual respect, trust, and genuine affection.
This gathering was more than just a corporate event; it was a celebration of our collective journey and individual contributions. Everyone left with a deeper appreciation for the unique qualities that each person brings to Prodigitality, feeling truly grateful to be part of such a vibrant and supportive community.
Looking forward, we carry with us not only the memories of a well-spent time together but also the lessons learned and the bonds formed. These are the ties that will support us in our future challenges and endeavors, ensuring that as we grow as a company, we also grow as a family.
The echoes of our laughter by the Daraitan River and the warmth of the bonfire nights will resonate within us, reminding us of the strength we draw from our unity. It is with this reinforced camaraderie and an enriched sense of purpose that we return to our daily tasks—inspired, motivated, and more connected than ever.