The University of Northern Philippines (UNP) organized the 3rd Bayani Challenge cum MOA Signing on June 3, 2024, titled “Maysa Nak nga UNPian, Naayat nga Agserbi ken Mangiburay Adal” – A Day of Service, Learning, and Generosity at Sto. Tomas Elementary School in Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur.

The event aimed to promote volunteerism and community service among UNP faculty and staff while providing educational assistance and support to underprivileged students.

The Bayani Challenge is an annual event organized by the Office of Vice President for Research and Extension (VPRE), headed by Dr. Fatima F. Rocamora, in partnership with the University Extension Office (UEO), headed by Dr. Lloyd Mata, and the different participating academic and administrative units, which created an environment of “togetherness” and promoted a culture of caring and sharing.

The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between UNP and Sto. Tomas Elementary School encourages UNP faculty and staff to engage in various community service activities, such as teaching, mentoring, and providing needs and donations to students from partner schools.

During the event, UNP faculty and staff volunteered their time and skills to assist elementary students at Sto. Tomas Elementary School. Faculty from the Colleges of Engineering, Architecture, and Technology, together with the Chief Administrative Officer, Atty. Gerwin A. Rabang, alongside with the University Response Team (UNIVERT), helped hand in hand in the rehabilitation of the stage and the establishment of a Material Recovery Facility (MRF) and Compost Pile of Sto. Tomas Elementary School.

CBAA and CCIT Faculty conducted interactive learning sessions, while CHTM organized a sandwich and lemonade making activity, CFAD and CTE-LS provided learning materials to the children. CAS spearheaded the tree planting activities, while the CLAW provided free legal clinic.

The event also featured doctors from UNP-CMED and from the Ilocos Sur Medical Society, along with the College of Nursing and UEO. These medical professionals participated in the event to provide medical assistance and support to the community.

The Bayani Challenge deems to instill the values of service, learning, and generosity among UNP employees and its students. By participating in this event, UNP community will not only contribute to the betterment of the people’s way of living but also gain valuable experiences that shape their personal and professional growth.

The University of Northern Philippines remains committed to promoting volunteerism and community engagement among its partners. The UNP faculty and staff dedicated their time and effort in making the event a success as they imparted their skills and knowledge in different aspects. The different colleges and personalities present donated cash, food cart, learning materials, medicines, cement, and other in-kind gifts.

The Bayani Challenge is a testament of UNP’s dedication in producing well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also socially responsible and community oriented.

Article by Rocelle Villanueva, Photos by Johnny Allagadan, Jr.