Pangasinan State University, San Carlos Campus, displayed unity and compassion, as the College of Teacher Education (CTE), under the leadership of its dean, Dr. Myra C. Catungal, and the Supreme Student Council (SSC), led by president, Mandy De Vera, recently joined hands to organize a memorable gift-giving activity for the Badjao communities in Brgy. Lucban, San Carlos City, Pangasinan. This undertaking aimed not only to provide material support but also to bring joy and warmth to the lives of the marginalized Badjao people this coming holiday season.
The purposeful initiative, which received endless support from Dr. Liza L. Quimson, the Campus Executive Director, demonstrated the commitment of PSU San Carlos Campus to social responsibility. This saw active participation from the CED herself, CTE program chairpersons namely, Dr. Shirley Milanes (Prof. Ed), Dr. Arceli Adoracion G. Ramos (Gen. Ed.), Prof. Jayson C. Salvatiera (BEEd), Dr. Mary Ann R. Dalaten (BSEd Filipino), Prof. Ronie B. Soriano (BSEd Social Studies), faculty members, and the officers from different Student Body Organizations.
Fourteen student organizations worked hand in hand for the collection of such donations. These are: Supreme Student Council (SSC), BACHELEM, KESAP, Diwa ng Lahi, LETC, PFC, Ranchers, SAS, ITGO, JAMMS, CYFRO, JAHRE, JHEL, and CYM.
The Badjao people, an indigenous sea-faring community in the Philippines, are known for their unique seafaring way of life, facing challenges such as poverty, discrimination, and limited access to essential services due to their itinerant traditions which lead to environmental changes. Despite these challenges, they boast a rich cultural heritage that reflects in their practices and close connection to the sea.
As the gifts were distributed, smiles lit up the faces of the Badjao children and families, vividly showcasing the joy and gratitude, thereby emphasizing the significance of this initiative of PSU San Carlos.
Beyond the material goods, the event served as a reminder that kindness knows no bounds and that, as a society, we can make a positive impact by reaching out to those in need.