In a collaborative effort of Saint Louis University, the School of Engineering and Architecture (SEA), Electrical Engineering Department, under the Community Extension and Outreach Programs Office (CEOPO) with the Parish Pastoral Council of the SLU Saint Aloysius Gonzaga Parish, spearheaded a transformative project aimed at enhancing safety and sustainability within Barangay Happy Hollow, Baguio City on 9 and 10 February 2024.
Leading the turnover to the barangay officials were SLU Vice President for Mission and Identity and Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Emery E. Mwako, CICM; Assistant Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Emanuel Enjang Pranatal, CICM; PPC Chairman Mr. Erwin C. Posadas; PPC Social Action Team with Committee Head and Director CEOPO, Ms. Charmaine P. Mendoza; along with PPC Members. They additionally attended the installation of the solar-powered street lamp at Purok 1, Brgy. Happy Hallow, Baguio City, alongside the EE Faculty, Jr. IIEE members, barangay officials, and residents.
Speaking on behalf of the local government and the community, Punong Barangay Soriano A. Palunan expressed gratitude for the initiative and emphasized its significance in improving public safety. He praised the collaborative efforts of Saint Louis University and pledged support for future endeavors aimed at enhancing the quality of life for all residents.
Reverend Father Emery Mwako, Engr. Erwin C. Posadas, Engr. Helyn Kidsolan, and Ms. Charmaine P. Mendoza delivered touching messages, highlighting the importance of environmental stewardship and the role of communities in effecting positive change. Their words resonated with attendees, inspiring a renewed commitment to sustainability and collective action.
Three solar-powered street lamps have already been installed in Purok 1, Brgy. Happy Hallow, Baguio City, and more will be installed on the undeveloped roads, mostly consisting of narrow footpaths leading to different Puroks in the barangay. Furthermore, a seminar and training session was also conducted by Engr. Marc Gabriel Labagnoy, the Adviser of Jr. IIEE, and Mr. Joel Campos, EE Laboratory Technician, together with EE Faculty Members and Jr. IIEE members.
This comprehensive approach underscores SLU’s commitment to holistic community development and capacity building, aligning with the United Nations’ SDG 7(Affordable and Clean Energy) and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Likewise, the CICM Advocacies on Justice and Indigenous Peoples Apostolate are affirmed.Through collaborative efforts and ongoing education, SLU empowers local communities with knowledge and skills in sustainable practices paving the way for brighter and more equitable future for all.
