Birth of the ‘Beecees’ and Terry Magsaysay
Early June 1955, a group of young ladies from Manila’s prominent families met at the residence of Mrs. Fernado Lopez to discuss how to help poor children and their parents. The meeting was upon the initiative of Mrs. Charito Vergel de Dios who felt the privileged ladies could utilize their spare time to be of service to the less privileged.
The meeting saw the birth of the Young Ladies of the Blue Cross, later popularly known as the ‘Beecees.’ The daughter of President Ramon Magsaysay, Teresita, Terry for short, was chosen president. A ‘Beecees’ member was the daughter of Vice President Carlos Garcia, Linda.
In no time, the Beecees went into action in their various projects, among them Operation Survey with Fe Dolor as chairman, doing monthly visits to pediatric wards, settlement houses, and the slums. Food, toys and medicine were distributed to alleviate the children’s immediate needs. Antother project was Baby Milk Bank which provided milk for children.
Its membership grew.
From Manila, ‘Beecees’ went nationwide, organizing outreach missions in the provinces, supported by civic and religious organizations and generous individuals.
‘Beecees’ sponsored the benefit world premiere of Sanda Wong on Sept. 21, 1955 at the Lyric Theatre.
Of the three presidential children, Terry, Mila and Jun, Terry was the most low-keyed. But for ‘Beecees’ she showed her admirable leadership, presiding over meetings and spearheading civic projects.— RKC
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