The City Government of Baguio, through a resolution, formally commended the Saint Louis University (SLU) Project Daily Bread for its unwavering dedication to student welfare and its innovative and compassionate response to hunger through Project Daily Bread, a program led by the Center for Counseling and Wellness (CCW).
The commendation, issued through Resolution No. 656, Series of 2025, recognizes SLU’s efforts to foster equity, dignity, and academic success among students, particularly those experiencing food insecurity. The resolution was authored and unanimously approved by the City Council during its regular session on 29 September 2025. A copy of this Resolution was awarded to the University during the City’s morning rites on 27 October 2025.
Project Daily Bread was launched by SLU in response to identified cases of involuntary hunger among students. Implemented by CCW in collaboration with the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS), the Human Resource Department (HRD), and canteen concessionaires, the program provides decent lunch meals to financially struggling students who have been screened for food insecurity.
Since its inception in 2011, Project Daily Bread has served over 1,068 students, enabling them to focus on their studies and well-being without the burden of hunger. The initiative reflects SLU’s holistic commitment to forming persons who are not only competent but also compassionate and socially responsible.
The program thrives through the pledges and donations of SLU employees, students, and generous sponsors, who collectively sustain this act of daily kindness. Their continued support reflects the Louisian spirit of solidarity and empathy, proving that when a community comes together, no one needs to go hungry.
In his social media post, Vice Mayor Faustino Olowan commended the university for its “innovative and human response to hunger” and for exemplifying “the power of community in uplifting lives”. The Baguio City Public Information Office (PIO) also featured the commendation on its official Facebook page, recognizing SLU’s steadfast commitment to student welfare and highlighting the city government’s appreciation for the collaborative efforts of the CCW, OSAS, HRD, and canteen concessionaires in sustaining this compassionate and transformative program.
The recognition was received by representatives of the Center for Counseling and Wellness, led by its Director, Miss Marie Ellami S. Refuerzo, and Assistant Director, Mrs. Rhoda Joy A. Avila, during the flag-raising ceremony at the Baguio City Hall grounds.
Further celebrating this honor, SLU held a ceremonial awarding during its Flag Raising Ceremony on November 3, 2025, where the commendation was presented to Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, University President, along with the current and former committee members of Project Daily Bread. The ceremony served as a heartfelt tribute to those who have sustained and expanded the program through the years.
The impact of Project Daily Bread extends beyond the walls of SLU. Inspired by the program’s success, the Baguio City Council has benchmarked the initiative, leading to the creation of the Free Youth Meals for College Students Ordinance of 2023, a citywide effort to address hunger among college students from various institutions. This remarkable development demonstrates how SLU’s small act of compassion has sparked a broader movement of care and social responsibility within the city.
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger and SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, Project Daily Bread contributes to global efforts to end hunger, ensure food security, and promote the well-being of all.
True to its mission of serving with Christian spirit and social compassion, SLU continues to embody the Louisian core value of being men and women for others through programs like Project Daily Bread, a simple yet profound expression of care that nourishes both body and spirit. (Article by Rhoda Joy A. Avila | Photos from CCW and Baguio City Public Information Office)
