With profound gratitude and renewed purpose, the Xavier University – Junior High School (XUJHS) Tulong Dunong (TD) teachers, key administrators, and partner TD schools convened on 27 June 2025, at AVR 1 for the TD Evaluation and Planning Meeting. More than a routine gathering, it served as a meaningful reunion of educators, coordinators, and partner school representatives united by a shared commitment to uplift and empower learners.
The session commenced with an inspiring message from Mr Sherwin Anthony Ramos, Assistant Principal for Academics, who emphasized the core essence of the TD program: “Tulong Dunong is not just about instruction—it’s about inspiration, transformation, and building bridges of hope for our learners.” His words set an introspective and optimistic tone that resonated throughout the day.
Celebrating Impact
Participants took time to reflect on the program’s significant milestones, including successful collaborations between public and private institutions, dedicated student tutors, and the tangible academic and social growth of the tutees. Teachers shared observations of increased student confidence and engagement, citing participation in school events such as the Maker Faire as evidence of students’ growing sense of belonging.
One TD teacher remarked, “We’ve seen students transform—not just in grades, but in their spirit,” Many once shy and uncertain now greet us with enthusiasm and eagerness to learn.”
Listening to Ground-Level Insights
Representatives from partner schools shared heartfelt stories and candid feedback. Canitoan Elementary School highlighted how even their slow learners began to shine while Taguanao expressed their students’ enthusiasm for TD days, often arriving early and prepared. Lumbia Central School, celebrating twelve years of partnership, described the program as “a blessing accessible to all.”
Some concerns were also raised to inform continuous improvement. PN Roa expressed interest in expanding access to more learners whereas Sacred Heart suggested focusing on one subject per session due to space constraints. These insights were received with openness and a shared commitment to refinement.
Vision for the Future
The group explored strategic aspirations, including launching a TD Scholarship Program, conducting a long-term impact study, cautiously integrating digital tools, and enhancing faculty support services. Other opportunities identified included increased fundraising efforts, improved tracking of program completers, and greater campus exposure for public school tutees.
Operational plans, such as area assignments and session schedules, were finalized, emphasizing the importance of consistent communication, cultural orientation, and effective logistics.
A Grateful Close
As the morning drew to a close, Dr Samuel Macagba III, Assistant Principal for Formation, delivered a heartfelt closing message: “What we do here is not just tutoring,” he reminded everyone. “It’s accompaniment—it’s being with our learners in their journey, believing in them even when they haven’t yet believed in themselves.”
He concluded by expressing gratitude to every teacher, coordinator, and partner whose dedication continues to transform the TD program into a living testament of XUJHS’s mission to serve and empower leaving all present inspired and committed to advancing the program’s mission with renewed hearts and minds.