Iloilo City, December 5, 2024 — The West Visayas State University (WVSU), through its International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO) and the College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF) Emergency Response Team, in partnership with the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA), marked the Volunteerism at WVSU: The International Volunteerism Month Celebration 2024. This event underscores the university’s dedication to fostering a culture of service, compassion, and social responsibility within the academic community and beyond.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, President of WVSU, welcomed participants and guests, emphasizing the university’s commitment to volunteerism as a cornerstone of community development. He highlighted how such initiatives align with WVSU’s mission to nurture socially responsible individuals who contribute meaningfully to society.
Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of ILLO, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the broader impact of volunteerism on peace and sustainability. “Let’s take this opportunity to reflect on the positive impact of volunteerism, strengthen our commitment to serving others, and inspire one another to continue contributing to the well-being of our society. Together, we can build a better, more compassionate future,” she said, inspiring the audience to embrace service as a way of life.
Sharing Stories of Service
A key feature of the event was a forum where international and local volunteers shared their experiences, providing diverse perspectives on the transformative power of volunteerism:
Mr. Sakamoto Hideki, a Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteer assigned to LGU Kalibo, discussed his work in community development, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange in fostering sustainable growth.
Ms. Kamehama Chihiro, also from the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers, shared her experiences in municipality of Oton, where she focuses on youth engagement and education.
Ms. Chloe Mitchell, Mr. Patrick Brown, Ms. Crystal Garcia, and Mr. Neil delos Trinos, all from the United States Peace Corps, shared stories of their work in rural communities, highlighting initiatives in education, health, and environmental conservation.
Ms. Maria Ramona Moleño from Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) stressed the importance of capacity-building and empowering local communities to become self-reliant.
Prof. Ruben Gamala, a professor from UP Visayas, provided an academic perspective on volunteerism as a tool for social innovation and resilience.
Mr. Franz Remar Garion, Information Officer II of the Philippine Information Agency, underscored the role of media in promoting volunteer efforts and encouraging community participation.
Empowering a Community of Volunteers
The forum highlighted the diverse ways volunteerism can address societal challenges and foster global connections. Through personal stories and insights, the speakers emphasized that volunteerism is not just about giving time but about creating meaningful relationships and empowering communities to thrive.
The event also saw the active participation of CAF Emergency Response Team (ERT) volunteers, who demonstrated their readiness to serve in times of crisis and emphasized the importance of disaster preparedness and community resilience.
Furthermore, this event is part of a simultaneous nationwide celebration of International Volunteerism Month, with universities and organizations across the Philippines hosting similar activities to promote the spirit of volunteerism.
As WVSU continues its celebration of International Volunteerism Month, it reinforces its role as a leader in promoting global citizenship and social responsibility, inspiring its community to actively engage in volunteer work both locally and internationally.
