February 16, 2026 — The Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa, Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT) reaffirmed its commitment to institutionalized volunteerism following a partnership review conducted with the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA).
The review was highlighted by the personal visit of Donald James D. Gawe, CESO III, Executive Director of PNVSCA, who met with college officials and stakeholders to assess ongoing collaborations and explore future initiatives that advance volunteer-driven development.
In his welcome message, Arnel B. Millesca, SUC President III, expressed gratitude to PNVSCA for its continued support and encouraged participants to actively engage in volunteerism as a vital instrument for nation-building and community transformation.
A presentation of accomplishments, challenges, and strategies was delivered by Engr. Nenette M. Laurio, Planning Director, who outlined DEBESMSCAT’s previous volunteer initiatives. These included programs in crisis management, strengthening quality education, and delivering health and social services aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She emphasized the institution’s role in mobilizing academic communities toward responsive and inclusive development.
During the review, newly launched institutional programs aimed at formalizing and sustaining volunteerism efforts were introduced.
The VOLunTUTOR Program, presented by Dr. Uranus E. Cantoria, NSTP Director, seeks to mobilize volunteer tutors to provide academic assistance, life-skills mentoring, and career-readiness support both on campus and in partner communities. The initiative integrates service-learning with instruction, promoting academic excellence while nurturing social responsibility among students and educators.
Meanwhile, Mr. Wilfred C. Pagorogon, DRRM Focal Person, discussed the VOLunTABANG Program, which focuses on disaster preparedness, emergency response, and post-disaster recovery. He underscored the importance of building a trained and organized volunteer force capable of responding swiftly and compassionately during calamities in coordination with local and national partners.
In the discussion that followed, Director Gawe commended DEBESMSCAT for its proactive initiatives and expressed admiration for the institution’s strong integration of volunteerism into instruction, extension, and disaster response programs. Action points and possible areas of support were identified to further enhance collaboration between the agency and the college.
Closing the program, Dr. Erwin H. Malto, Vice President for Administration and Finance, challenged participants to develop more proposals that will institutionalize volunteerism across offices, colleges, and community engagements, ensuring that service becomes a defining culture within the institution.
The event was attended by vice presidents, college deans, the Cawayan Campus administrator, directors, and representatives from various student organizations, reflecting a collective commitment to strengthening volunteer-driven initiatives and sustaining partnerships for community development.
Ladies and gentlemen,
