AURORA, Zamboanga del Sur (PIA) – In a call to amplify the significant contribution of volunteerism as one of the crucial components in nation-building, the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) recently conducted a series of information sessions as part of the Bayanihan Day in Aurora. The activity was in collaboration with the provincial government of Zamboanga del Sur and various government agencies in the province.
Kenneth Siruelo, officer-in-charge of the Policy, Advocacy and Technical Services of PNVSCA, urged students at Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Government College (ZDSPGC)-Aurora Main Campus to actively take part in various activities that foster the spirit of volunteerism.
In his message, Siruelo highlighted diverse avenues such as community service projects, internships, and global volunteering initiatives that the students may participate in.
“As students, kung expert kayo sa information technology, turuan niyo ang kapwa ninyo estudyante. Sa HIV-AIDS at drugs, pwede kayong mag advice at mag volunteer, sa pamamagitan ng peer counseling (As students, if you are an expert in information technology, teach your fellow students. You can also give advice and volunteer through peer counseling about HIV-AIDS and drugs),” he said.
Siruelo also encouraged the students to identify their passion and interests and channel them into meaningful volunteer work, emphasizing that even small acts of kindness can make a significant difference in the lives of others.
“Hindi ibig sabihin studyante pa kayo wala kayong magagawa, you have a lot of opportunities as students to do your share in nation-building through volunteerism (It doesn’t mean that you are still a student and can’t do anything. You have a lot of opportunities as students to do your share in nation-building through volunteerism),” Siruelo added.
Bayanihan Day is part of this year’s National Volunteer Month (NVM) celebration with the theme, “Igniting Volunteer-led Innovation for Future Growth and Transformation.”
Meanwhile, Stephane Pareja, a freshman student at ZDSPGC-Aurora Main Campus, shared her insights on the importance of volunteerism as a student.
“It is important for us students to participate in activities like this and engage in volunteer work in the future. By doing so, we develop life skills and become well-rounded individuals by providing help to society, ” she said.
The session also sought to inspire and guide students on the path to becoming responsible and active contributors to their communities.
The PNVSCA, as the government agency mandated to promote and coordinate volunteer programs and services throughout the country, continues its advocacy for strengthening volunteerism, thereby recognizing volunteers as partners in development. (RVC/EDT/SBM/PIA Zamboanga del Sur)
