By Vanz Kristoffer V Echem

XU-SL, recipient of “Gawad Kalambuan Award”

Xavier University's Service Learning Program (SLP) was recognized at the Department of Social Welfare and Development's (DSWD) 74th Anniversary Awards, held on 26 March 2025, at the Xavier Estates Sports and Country Club. The event acknowledged the unwavering service and dedication of private institutions, local government units (LGUs), and civil organizations that continue to serve marginalized communities.

The ceremony commenced with the opening remarks from DSWD-10 Regional Director Ramel F Jamen, who shared, 'Today, we honor not just an event but a profound commitment to social welfare and development. Service, ultimately, is not merely what we do or our work, but it is about transforming the lives of every Filipino family we have touched.' The presentation of awards followed, recognizing various recipients, with Xavier University's Service Learning Program receiving the Gawad Kalambuan Award for its partnership in providing social services and supporting marginalized sectors in collaboration with DSWD’s Sustainable Livelihood Program. Ms Gail dela Rita, XU-SLP Director was represented by Ms Victoria Melissa C Pulido, Ms Paulyn Erica M Porras, and Mr Vanz Kristoffer V Echem, XU-SLP Formators, in the awarding ceremony.

Following the awards, Ms Fe A Arances, a foster parent, shared her heartfelt experiences, stating, ‘Isip isa ka foster parents, nagsugod kini nagapply mi sa akong bana isip foster parents, Onse ka tuig mi ug bisan kinsa bata na kailngan ug pag amuma, duwa ka bata ang nahimo namong foster children na karun naadopt na ug naa na sa ilang adopted  family ang isa sa France ug ang isa naa na sa Sweden.' (As foster parents, my husband and I began this journey eleven years ago. We opened our home to children in need of care. We fostered two children who have since been adopted; one is now with their family in France, and the other in Sweden.)

Next, the Mayor of LGU Gingoog, Honorable Erick G Cañosa, delivered a message affirming, 'The DSWD-10 award acknowledges the partners' commitment to public service, good governance, and an inclusive society. We express our gratitude to the dedicated private institutions and organizations for their unwavering dedication to serving vulnerable communities.'

For the keynote message, Mr Juan Carlos V Marquez represented DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian. Mr Marquez shared, 'DSWD views service as a calling and vocation. This celebration, with the theme 'Bawat Buhay ay Mahalaga’, highlights how the efforts and sincerity of our partners demonstrate true public service that transforms lives and builds better communities.'

XU-SLP expresses its gratitude for the recognition, which will serve as an inspiration to the program’s commitment to sustained partnerships with DSWD, reinforcing its goal of bridging academic knowledge to communities in need.