TSU through the Office of University Extension Services (OUES) celebrated 2025 International Volunteer Day at the Amphitheater, Villa Lucinda Campus on December 5, 2025. This event emphasized the role of volunteerism in building inclusive and resilient communities.
Anchored on the theme, “Every Contributions Matters,” the event brought together students, faculty and international volunteers for a day of learning and collaboration.
TSU President Dr. Arnold E. Velasco opened the program by underscoring the heart and commitment behind volunteerism, quoting, “Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.” His message highlighted the profound impact of service driven by passion and purpose.
Attendees also viewed audiovisual presentations of the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) Executive Director, Mr. Donald James D. Gawe, delivered an inspirational message and shared a brief history of volunteerism in the Philippines. A video message from Mr. Christian Hainzl, Regional Manager of United Nations Volunteers Asia Pacific, reinforced the global significance of volunteer work.
The celebration—led by Engr. Emir Lenard S. F. Sicangco, the University Volunteerism Focal Person and OUES Director - featured two panel sessions highlighting experiences of international volunteers currently serving in the Philippines.
Panel Session 1, moderated by Engr. Sicangco, featured the Northern Luzon Cluster volunteers: Gabriel Chong, Dr. Lynn Nestingen, Sydney Neuman, and Guiliana Vera Noland. They shared insights on the year’s theme and discussed how volunteerism strengthens community development.
Panel Session 2, facilitated by Dr. Francelle L. Calub, Head of the Volunteerism Management Department, showcased the Central Luzon Cluster volunteers: Tsuyoshi Kinoshita, Lauryn Blottin, Jack Wallace Sandobal, Elizabeth Winter, and Keola Morley. Their discussion tackled the opportunities and challenges of volunteer work, offering students a deeper understanding of service in diverse community settings.
Each panel was followed by an open forum, giving students the chance to interact directly with the volunteers, ask questions, and learn from their experiences and advocacies.
The event also featured a volunteer trivia quiz, which provided a fun and engaging way for students to test their knowledge of volunteerism.
The program concluded with a recognition ceremony honoring all volunteers for their invaluable contributions. Atty. Wilmark J. Ramos delivered the closing remarks, encouraging the TSU community to continue nurturing a strong culture of service.
This reaffirmed its commitment to empowering communities and nurturing future volunteers—proving that every act of service, whether big or small, truly matters.
