By Prof. Sarex Dalida Dipol, Jr. & Ms. Joan S. Castor
Ms. Joan S. Castor, Logistics Coordinator of CPU Project ETC, conducted an orientation for parents and teachers at one of the adopted public elementary schools of CPU CESLC.
The Community Engagement and Service-Learning Center (CESLC) of Central Philippine University (CPU), through its flagship initiative—the CPU Project ETC Outreach Program—successfully conducted a three-day orientation seminar from July 24 to 26, 2025. Founded by Dr. Anecita C. Seisa, an esteemed alumna of the CPU College of Nursing, the program aims to uplift public elementary schools by promoting education, technology integration, and community involvement. The seminar was facilitated by Ms. Joan S. Castor, the Project’s Logistics Coordinator, and was conducted in several of CPU’s adopted schools, including Uswag San Isidro Elementary School in Brgy. San Isidro; Judith Lazarraga Tiongco Memorial Elementary School in Brgy. Tabuc Suba; Bito-On Elementary School in Brgy. Bito-on, Jaro; Iloilo River Plains Integrated School and Tiu Cho Teg-Ana Ros Foundation Integrated Farm School in Brgy. Lanit, Jaro; and Brgy. Badiang Elementary School in New Lucena, Iloilo.
The orientation was designed to introduce the history and vision of CPU Project ETC, as well as its sustained partnership with Central Philippine University. It highlighted the vital roles of parents, teachers, and the wider community in supporting the academic and developmental growth of students in partner schools. The sessions also outlined the various programs and services to be implemented, such as the provision of school supplies, PE and school uniforms, bags, feeding supplies, and the promotion of school-based gardens under the Gulayan sa Paaralan Program. Additionally, the orientation served as an opportunity for the CPU Project ETC team to gather essential data from each school. This included the official enrollment numbers for School Year 2025–2026, gender distribution of students, and clothing sizes for those eligible to receive physical education uniforms. For schools participating in the feeding program, baseline nutritional assessments of students were also conducted to ensure effective and targeted interventions.
CPU Project ETC was established with the primary goal of improving educational access, reducing absenteeism, and addressing malnutrition among public elementary students. By integrating technology and strengthening school-community partnerships, the project seeks to foster a learning environment that promotes not only academic excellence but also holistic student development. The initiative also underscores the shared responsibility of parents, schools, and community stakeholders in creating a nurturing and inclusive educational setting. With its comprehensive support programs and clear focus on long-term impact, the CPU Project ETC continues to be a beacon of hope and transformation in the lives of children in Iloilo’s underserved communities. Its mission is deeply rooted in CPU’s core values of Scientia et Fides—knowledge and faith—ensuring that each child is equipped not just for school, but for life.