TAGUIG CITY, Philippines – The Lego scene has never been more vibrant in this part of Asia, when PinoyLUG celebrated its first year anniversary of being legitimized by The LEGO Group as the Philippines’ Recognized LEGO User Group (RLUG). This momentous occasion for the group centred on its mission of promoting fun, creativity, and camaraderie which the LEGO Brand embodies.
Held in the last week of October, the event, aptly named “Bricktober,” saw bricks of all sizes and colors overflowing as a broad spectrum of themes were laid out in a 2-day festival of fun and imagination. “We wanted to have this as a yearly opportunity for every Filipino LEGO enthusiasts to share and enjoy the benefits of an extraordinary Lego-based experience,” Leslie Araujo, PinoyLUG Ambassador and organizer of the event. “We believe that LEGO is for everyone and that the Philippines is equally a strong stakeholder in the advancement of its causes across all ages and social strata,” he further added. Truth be told, PinoyLUG has made LEGO’s presence felt even in the areas that badly need camaraderie. A few days before Bricktober, a strong typhoon devastated the Philippines, and while PinoyLUG needed to finance its operational cost by way of its event’s entrance fees, its members decided to donate the same to the typhoon’s victims – benefitting 220 homeless families in the process. “It thence became a fun-for-a-cause activity, which only strengthened the core values of our group,” added Leslie.
And fun it was. Eye candy included elaborate set-ups of Winter themes, Modulars, Super Heroes, Friends, and Architecture, complete with train models circling the perimeter. Not to be outdone were sets from the Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Star Wars, Scooby Doo, Monster Fighters, and some original creations (MOC) which interestingly featured a mosaic of Gen. Antonio Luna – a 19th century Filipino revolutionary martyr – who seemed to appear proud that his descendants whom he has died for have done the country good.
Aside from the display, various activities also peppered the event. These included blind MOC, Bring Me game, brick quiz, raffle, and auction which adults and kids alike enjoyed and bonded upon.
“PinoyLUG wouldn’t have reached its first activities-filled year if it wasn’t for its committed, talented, and generous members. For this reason, our first Bricktober came out also as a sort of tribute to this brotherhood that our group has firmly established. It has further cemented our connection and solidified our objectives, and has made us feel more inspired, excited, and empowered to celebrate next year’s bigger and brighter Bricktober.” Leslie exclaimed.
Photo credit: Ronald Gutierrez