USM-SWK Nagsagawa ng Paunang Pasundayag: Pagbasa ng Papel Pananaliksik 2025
April 29, 2025
MSU-GenSan Agribusiness Students Visit USM for an Educational Tour
April 29, 2025
Kabacan, Cotabato–First-year students from the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) officially launched the ‘Gabay’ Community Immersion Program on March 25, 2025, at Purok Dima, Barangay Lower Paatan, Kabacan, North Cotabato.
The program was part of the students’ National Service Training Program-Civic Welfare Training Service (NSTP-CWTS) compliance. Led by Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Science students, the program focuses on combating malnutrition and promoting child welfare in Barangay Lower Paatan, Kabacan.
Barangay Lower Paatan, specifically Purok Dima, was selected for the program following consultations with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), and Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNSs), citing it as one of the communities with the highest malnutrition rates in Kabacan.
The launching included the distribution of a nutritious meal consisting of stir-fried cabbage, rice, and milk. In the afternoon, traditional Filipino games were organized to encourage teamwork and social interaction.
According to Marc Angelo Dolar, one of the Philosophy students involved, the project initially started as a requirement but evolved into a commitment to service.
“The main reason we started this was for compliance. But when we saw the children’s situation, we decided to give it our all and make a lasting impact,” Dolar said.
Ace Julius Pagunsan, another Philosophy student, shared that visiting the area during the planning stages further motivated the group.
“Some kids had runny noses; some didn’t even have clothes on. They looked small and fragile for their age. Helping them became a passion, not just an obligation,” Pagunsan shared.
The ‘Gabay’ program will run every Friday until May 16, featuring sessions on hygiene etiquette, values education, talent development, and a culminating ceremony. The project is supported by USM’s NSTP Office and Extension Services Office (ESO).
The program aimed to promote not only physical well-being but also character development among the children through education and community involvement.
Text & Photo: Casandra Kete Altoveros, & Pearl Felipe || DevCom Interns <via Rey John O. Cortez>
