By Karren Jay G. Asgar & Joan S. Castor

Beneficiaries and the CPU Project ETC team gather for a photo opportunity during the donation of monthly food supplies, uniforms, bags, and school supplies on December 11, 2024, at Tapikan Elementary School.

On December 11-12, 2024, the CPU Project ETC, in partnership with local schools, successfully conducted a distribution of monthly food supplies, uniforms, bags, and supplies to students at Tapikan Elementary School (ES) in Brgy. Tapikan, San Joaquin, Iloilo and Zaragosa (ES) in Brgy. Zaragosa, Balasan, Iloilo.

The initiative was led by the Seisa family—Dr. Anecita Catedrilla Seisa, an alumna of the College of Nursing; her husband, Mr. Joaquin Seisa; their children, Mr. Tristan Seisa and Ms. Andrea Seisa; and their nephew, Mr. Nico Catedrilla, who serves as the Project Leader of Project ETC. Through this non-profit organization, the Seisa family demonstrates their unwavering commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in underserved communities. In collaboration with CPU’s Community Engagement and Service-Learning Program, Project ETC is dedicated to improving the lives of children and families in marginalized areas, driven by its core values: Education, Technology, and Community.

The CPU Project ETC team and beneficiaries come together for a photo during the distribution of monthly food supplies, uniforms, bags, and school supplies on December 12, 2024, at Zaragoza Elementary School.

“The organization seeks to address the technological and educational needs of children in developing regions by providing resources and opportunities,” Ms. Joan S. Castor, CPU Project ETC’s Logistics Coordinator shared. “A key component of Project ETC’s success is its collaboration with local communities, where strong relationships with community leaders, school officials, and parents help in identifying the specific needs of the students.”

The success of the event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of several dedicated individuals: Ms. Joan S. Castor, CPU Project ETC Logistics Coordinator; Prof. Sarex D. Dipol, Jr., Acting Director of Community Engagement and Service Learning; and the College Faculty Outreach Program representatives, including Prof. Rhys Camacho, Prof. Ann Marie Alguidano, Prof. Gleason Parcia, Dr. Regina Samillano, Mr. Prince Joash Dacles, and Prof. Kerwin Luntao. Additionally, Mr. Kent Tambusao and Mr. Joash Gumban contributed as student representatives.

The program commenced with welcome remarks from the school principals of both institutions, setting the tone for the event. This was followed by an inspirational message from Ms. Joan S. Castor, Logistics Coordinator for the CPU Project ETC. In her speech, she underscored the transformative power of education and encouraged students to pursue excellence in their studies. She emphasized that education opens doors to countless opportunities and urged the students to dream big. “With God, nothing is impossible,” she emphasized, stressing the importance of trusting in divine guidance. Ms. Castor also expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the parents, teachers, and school administrators for their steadfast support of the initiative.

Prof. Sarex D. Dipol, Jr., Acting Director of the Community Engagement and Service Learning Program, further emphasized CPU Project ETC’s long-term commitment to supporting the schools and their students. He reassured the school communities that the project would continue to be actively involved and responsive to their evolving needs, ensuring sustained assistance and collaboration moving forward.

The distribution of supplies served as a tangible reflection of Project ETC’s mission to create greater opportunities for children in rural areas. By addressing immediate needs and fostering lasting connections with local communities, the said organization continues to empower students and families, equipping them with the tools and support necessary for success in their education.

As the event ended, the team reaffirmed their dedication to ongoing collaboration with local communities. Their continued efforts aim to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students at Tapikan and Zaragosa Elementary schools. Through this partnership, the initiative has not only provided essential resources but also inspired hope and determination among students, motivating them to pursue their dreams.