In a vibrant display of partnership and purpose, the University of Northern Philippines (UNP), through its Student Welfare Services Office (SWSO) under the Office of Student Affairs and Services, joined forces with Junior Chamber International (JCI) Vigan to stage the third installment of the CoLove Festival: Heart to Hearts Tour on March 11, 2026.
Simultaneously unfolding across three UNP venues, the initiative energized participants through a series of engaging and transformative activities centered on civic responsibility, health literacy, and family resilience—empowering them with practical tools for emotional well-being, responsible leadership, and holistic growth in the face of academic and community challenges.
First-time voters in the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections, drawn from junior and senior high schools, joined first-year students of Political Science, Criminology, and Public Administration from the University of Northern Philippines at the UNP Gymnasium for the “Heart for Nation” session. The gathering served as a platform to equip young voters with knowledge and a deeper sense of civic responsibility.
Representing Senator Bam Aquino, Mr. PV Aquino delivered an inspiring message that emphasized the critical role of the youth in shaping communities and contributing to nation-building beyond the act of voting. Complementing this, the Commission on Elections- Ilocos Sur provided participants with essential information on the fundamentals of exercising their right to suffrage. Meanwhile, Provincial Youth Development Officer Ms. Olivia Marie Ibatuan shared valuable insights on youth empowerment, highlighting various initiatives and opportunities led by the Provincial Youth Development Office that encourage active youth participation in governance and community development.
Simultaneously, at UNP Tadena Hall, students from the College of Social Work, College of Health Sciences, and first-year students from the BS Psychology program tackled wellness in the Heart for Health session. Dr. Marifel Acena of the SWSO and Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling Program Head, inspired rethinking vices through practical lifestyle guidance. Dr. Nina Castillo Reyes of the Ilocos Sur Medical Society provided insights on preventing diabetes and hypertension via small, impactful habits.
Meanwhile, the Heart for Family session for Bachelor of Arts in Communication and College of Teacher Education students was conducted at the College of Technology Complex Function Hall. Ms. Anna Barbara Angelica Labelle Medina, Ilocandia Region Secretary, energized participants with insights on going viral for social change. Mr. Mico Molina, Students of Arts and Sciences Organization adviser and faculty from the College of Arts and Sciences, offered guidance on managing stress and mental health online.
As steadfast partners, UNP and JCI Vigan advanced parallel empowerment tracks through this collaboration, cultivating a supportive network for sustainable community impact and future leaders.
