This initiative is aimed to provide immediate healthcare relief to geographically isolated and economically disadvantaged communities. In addition, they strived to deliver professional medical consultations, distribute essential medicines, and educate residents on preventive health practices. In both venues, the missions alleviated the immediate health concerns of over 214 residents, establishing a framework for sustainable health improvements.

In Kalinga, the program brought together the collaborative efforts of the SHAS Pharmacy Department, the Executive Family Council, the Department of Health (DOH), and individual contributors like Dr. Alexandra Delos Santos. The mission directly supported a total of 114 residents.

Similarly, the mission in San Antonio was a multidisciplinary team comprising the SHAS Pharmacy Department, the Nursing Department, Alumni Batch 1999, and renowned medical professionals such as Dr. Rema Caronan Parallag, an alumna of batch 1999, and Dr. Minerva Battung, University Physician. The team’s efforts ensured the seamless implementation of activities, from registration and health screenings to consultations and the distribution of medicines to over 100 residents.

The missions demonstrated lasting impacts as they addressed essential healthcare needs while fostering community empowerment. By offering free consultations, distributing medicines, and delivering health education, the programs improved the quality of life for participants. Equally important, they strengthened the relationship between USLT and local communities, building trust and opening doors for future engagement.

Congratulations to USLT and all stakeholders for the outstanding success of the Medical and Dental Missions. Actionable results like these missions are a testament to the impact of working together toward a common goal, improving lives and building healthier communities.

Aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), the missions addressed critical healthcare disparities in marginalized areas. The missions showcased the university’s leadership in health advocacy and its dedication to creating long-lasting societal benefits. Through these missions, USLT also promoted healthy living practices, emphasizing the importance of preventive care in achieving sustainable community health.

Additionally, their collaborative approach reflects SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), highlighting the importance of partnerships among institutions, government agencies, and community stakeholders. By addressing immediate healthcare concerns and promoting sustainable health practices, these programs contribute meaningfully to building a more equitable and healthy society.

#MissionExcellence #USLCECA #LouisianCares #ExperienceUSL #USLPhilippines

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The Hatid-Kapatid Program extended aid to 643 beneficiaries, encompassing 483 households in Barangay Bisagu, Aparri West, and 160 individuals in Barangay Dungeg, Sta. Ana, Cagayan. In collaboration with CICM Philippines and Saint Louis University, this initiative has demonstrated solidarity and care, embodying the shared mission of uplifting marginalized communities. By addressing the needs of vulnerable sectors, the program directly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10: Reduced Inequalities.

In response to the recent calamities, the CECA team distributed hot meals for evacuees in various evacuation centers in the city, including Tuguegarao West Central School, Tuguegarao North Central School, Tuguegarao Northeast Central School, and Annafunan Integrated School from November 18 to 22, 2024. This initiative benefited over 1,200 evacuees, providing them with nourishment and comfort during their time of need. The success of this undertaking was made possible by the generous contributions of the Louisian community, showcasing the university’s spirit of collective action and care.

These outreach initiatives not only addressed immediate needs but also reflected USL’s alignment with global calls to action, particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. By fostering resilience and supporting disaster-stricken areas, the university continues to demonstrate its dedication to creating sustainable and inclusive communities.

Through these acts of solidarity, USL reiterates that community service transcends acts of charity. It is a shared responsibility to empower individuals, alleviate inequalities, and build stronger, more compassionate societies. Guided by the mission of CICM and its core values, the Louisian community remains steadfast in its advocacy for meaningful change, striving to create a better future for all.

#USLHatidKapatid #USLCares #MissionExcellence #USLPhilippines

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The seminar, led by keynote speaker John Paul C. Tong, PhD, Regional Planning Officer of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), also explored sustainable approaches aligned with the long-term goals of indigenous communities. To welcome the participants, the United Cordilleran Students’ Cultural Organization performed a traditional indigenous dance, celebrating the rich heritage of the Cordilleran people and setting a culturally immersive tone for the event.

In attendance were Rev. Fr. John Mark D. Barroga, CICM, MATh-PM, Vice President for Mission and Identity, and Rev. Fr. Nicolas Citolo, CICM, Parish Priest of St. Mary Catholic Mission. The event aligned with the CICM advocacy of solidarity with marginalized and indigenous groups, promoting respect, justice, and sustainable community engagement. It also supported Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10, which focuses on reducing inequalities, and SDG 16, which promotes peaceful and inclusive societies. Through this initiative, USL continues to empower indigenous communities and foster long-lasting, respectful partnerships.

#USLCECA #ProjectCULTURE #IPMonth #USLPhilippines

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On October 11, 2024, a Friendship Game took place between athletes from the USL Basic Education School (BES) and Allaguia National High School (ANHS) during the ANHS Intramurals, themed “Allaguia NHS: Championing Excellence and Embracing Camaraderie.” The games featured basketball (3×3), volleyball, and badminton, participated by 10 BES student-athletes with Ramil I. Corpuz, MAEd, Assistant Director for Sports Development, and Roselyn N. Lemi, MBA, SABH CECA Coordinator, serving as judges for the cheerdance competition. The event, hosted at the historic Saint Mary’s Catholic Mission grounds, concluded with a lively Kalinga unity dance, fostering a deep sense of community among the students and teachers.

On October 18-19, 2024, the Sports Empowerment Series followed, offering participants talks on Sports Safety and Sportsmanship, along with focused training sessions in basketball, volleyball, and badminton. Two Physical Education instructors from the School of Education, Criminology, Arts, and Psychology (SECAP), alongside five USL college student-athletes, led the training. The AFS foreign exchange students from BES also took part, immersing themselves in the local culture and building bonds with the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) of Kalinga.

In addition to the sports activities, the AFS students, namely Hedy Oehme (Germany) and Tilo Halter (Switzerland)  enjoyed a rich cultural experience, visiting the Barangay Hall for a taste of native Kalinga coffee, hiking through the community, and exploring the waterfalls near Allaguia, guided by the local school head and teachers. The two-day event concluded with mini-tournaments and another joyful unity dance, celebrating cultural diversity and solidarity with the Kalinga community.

These activities support SDGs 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), 4 (Quality Education), and 10 (Reduced Inequalities), while aligning with the CICM advocacy of Integral Evangelization and Social Justice. The events highlighted the importance of sports not only as a tool for physical development but also as a means for intercultural exchange, community building, and personal growth.

Through Project SPORTS, the youth of Allaguia, USL, and AFS have created lasting connections, embodying the spirit of collaboration, cultural immersion, and shared experiences.

#CECA #ProjectSPORTS #SDGs #ExperienceUSL #USLPhilippines

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The SLP at the University of Saint Louis integrates community service with academic learning, aiming to foster social responsibility and civic engagement among students.

The program featured key sessions focused on equipping participants with vital financial skills. Angelyn May D. Limun and Ma. Nicole B. Villaflores, officers from the ABM GEMxecutives, delivered an insightful talk on Personal Finance, highlighting actionable strategies for effective budgeting and saving. Additionally, Steven Carl D. Cartajena, Treasurer of The BOSS, presented a session titled GENtrepreneurial MindZet 101, focused on fostering an entrepreneurial mindset through persistence and creative problem-solving.

Participants also enjoyed product demonstrations of innovative food products created by students in their entrepreneurship subjects, showcasing their creativity and practical skills.

The event was further distinguished by the presence of Tuguegarao City Mayor, Hon. Maila Rosario Ting-Que, who delivered an empowering speech. She emphasized the importance of good governance, the prioritization of public welfare, and the crucial role of youth leaders in fostering community development and achieving meaningful progress.

Overall, Project MONEY was a resounding success, providing the youth of Caritan Norte with essential financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills, thereby enhancing their ability to make informed decisions for personal and organizational financial growth. This initiative not only enriched the participants’ knowledge but also aligned with broader goals for sustainable development, particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. By equipping the youth of Caritan Norte with essential financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills, the program fostered lifelong learning opportunities and empowered participants to contribute to sustainable economic growth within their community.

#BES #SDG4 #SDG8 #ExperienceUSL #USLPhilippines

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One of the major highlights of the summit was the presentation of the new CECA framework and logo, delivered by Mr. Alvic B. Torres, the SECAP CECA Coordinator. The updated framework symbolized a fresh approach to community engagement, focusing on building stronger partnerships with local communities. This, too, aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to ensure USL’s community engagement supports both local and global challenges. By integrating advocacies such as good health and well-being (SDG 3), quality education (SDG 4), and zero hunger (SDG 2), the framework fosters sustainable solutions while enhancing student learning through service and research, further strengthening USL’s commitment to social responsibility.

In addition, the introduction of new guidelines for employees and student organizations involved in community engagement activities was presented by Ms. Victoria Bianca Acorda, OIC Director. These guidelines were designed to streamline procedures and ensure that all initiatives align with the university’s broader goals.

Key findings from recent community assessments were also shared during the event by Ms. Roselyn Lemi and Mr. Bryan Arugay, Coordinators of the SABH and BES, respectively. The assessments provided valuable insights that will inform future volunteer programs and community extension activities, ensuring they are responsive to the needs of partner communities. A panel discussion on “The Role of Leaders in Shaping Volunteerism” underscored the importance of leadership in cultivating a robust culture of volunteerism within the university. The panel of experts included Dr. Ariel M. Lorenzo, Dr. Marie Jean N. Mendezabal, and Dr. Herbert S. Corpuz.

The summit concluded with a series of workshops and breakout sessions where participants collaborated to design impactful programs. These sessions encouraged creativity and cross-departmental cooperation, reflecting the university’s dedication to fostering collaboration and innovative solutions in its community engagement efforts. The CECA Summit was a significant step toward reinforcing USL’s mission of social responsibility and engagement with local communities.

#USLCECA #CECASummit2024 #ExperienceUSL #USLPhilippines

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This life-saving event, organized in collaboration with the Cagayan Valley Medical Center (CVMC), showcased the strong spirit of volunteerism within the Louisian community.

Students, faculty, and university employees participated with enthusiasm, demonstrating their commitment to supporting vital health initiatives. Their contributions were complemented by the involvement of several external agencies, further amplifying the impact of the event. The collected blood will significantly bolster CVMC’s capacity to address critical healthcare needs across the region.

The organizers expressed profound gratitude to all donors, whose selflessness and generosity have the potential to save countless lives. This successful collaboration not only highlights the university’s dedication to community engagement but also reinforces its role in addressing the broader health challenges faced by the Cagayan Valley.

USL remains committed to fostering initiatives that make a tangible difference in the lives of many, and this bloodletting drive stands as a testament to the power of collective action in the service of the community.

Lastly, this activity aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3, which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages.

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On April 29, 2024, a benchmarking activity at the Urban Edible Garden was conducted by the Community Engagement and CICM Advocacies office and hosted by the City Agriculture Office-LGU Tuguegarao.

Led by City Agriculturist Dr. Evangeline Calubaquib, the initiative focused on sharing best practices in sustainable urban gardening. Dr. Calubaquib shared valuable insights on soil management, crop rotation, pest control, and organic fertilization. The knowledge gained will be utilized in the university’s extension activities in partner communities, empowering residents with skills for sustainable urban gardening practices.

The event served as a platform for stakeholders to collaborate and exchange experiences, highlighting the crucial role of urban agriculture in promoting food security and environmental sustainability. The insights shared are expected to enhance community resilience and self-sufficiency through the establishment of sustainable urban gardens.

Photo Credits: Tuguegarao City Information Office/Facebook

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