In line with the theme, “Igniting Volunteer-led Innovation for Deep Economic and Social Transformation: Bolunterismo Tungo sa Bagong Pilipinas,” delegates from different Baguio-Benguet’s International volunteer organizations gathered at the Saint Louis University Incubator for Research, Innovation, and Business Center (SIRIB) to celebrate the International Volunteers’ Day on 06 December 2024.
Spearheaded through the collaboration of the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) and Saint Louis University (SLU), through the Office of Global Relations and Alumni Affairs (SLU-OGRAA), Community Extension and Outreach Program Office (SLU-CEOPO), the event aimed to provide a platform for the National Volunteer Month celebration (NVM) of the HEI-Led IVD 2024.
The program was officially opened with welcoming remarks by the SLU Executive Assistant to the President, Joselito C. Gutierrez, PhD, reiterating that this year’s theme resonates deeply with SLU as a Catholic Higher Education Institution that volunteerism is not merely an act of service; it is a catalyst for innovation and change.
Followed by a video message from the United Nations Secretary-General, Achim Steiner. Each international volunteer speaker shared their unique experiences and insights into volunteerism, highlighting the impact it has on both their personal lives and the communities they served.
Mr. Donald James D. Gawe, CESO III , PNVSCA Executive Director, emphasized the significant role of international volunteering in fostering global solidarity, cultural exchange, and sustainable development. In his speech, he highlighted how international volunteerism contributes not only to personal growth but also to addressing pressing global challenges, such as poverty, climate change, and inequality. “If you truly want to do something, despite the hardships, you will make it happen,” said Mr. Joshua Brown, a United States Peace Corps (USPC) volunteer in sharing a mantra he has always embraced throughout his volunteer journey.
Another USPC volunteer, Mr. Niko Jeroski, highlighted that being a volunteer does not require having everything, because the true essence of volunteering is giving what you can. “Volunteering is giving freely and expecting nothing,” he stated.
Mr. Yamamoto Shion, a Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) volunteer, centered his testimony on his fulfilling dedication to being a volunteer at La Trinidad Disaster Risk Reduction Management (LTDRRM).
Mr. Jerome Polonio, a returned Filipino volunteer from Voluntary Service Overseas, believes that volunteering is more than just helping others; it is about exchanging ideas and sharing values of community spirit.
Moreover, the President of the SLU International Students Association (ISA), Mr. Saw Ehta Ler, shared that one of the greatest aspects of volunteerism is its ability to create a ripple effect—where the act of helping one individual can inspire others to do the same, ultimately improving the lives of those who truly need it. This cascading effect is what makes volunteerism so impactful and meaningful.
Discussions then shed light on the challenges and rewards of volunteering internationally, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange, global cooperation, and the positive changes that result from volunteer efforts. The stories served as an inspiration for others to engage in volunteerism and contribute to meaningful causes on a global scale.
To conclude the event, CEOPO Director, Charmaine P. Mendoza, delivered her closing remarks, expressing deep gratitude to all the speakers, participants, and organizers for their dedication and contributions. She emphasized the importance of volunteerism in fostering community development and global solidarity, and encouraged everyone to continue making a positive impact through their efforts.
In hosting the International Volunteers’ Day 2024, SLU has reaffirmed its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) particularly, No Poverty (SDG 1), Quality Education (SDG 4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG 16), Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17). (Article by Je Marie Dannang, OGRAA Intern | Photos by Shane Gamboa, OGRAA Intern)
