By Rhys de la Banda Camacho
CPU faculty, students, and participants proudly display their handmade rugs, showcasing the success of the Gender-Responsive Rug-Making Training in fostering livelihood opportunities.
Service learning is one of the substantial thrusts of Central Philippine University, being a Christian institution, in helping adopted communities and resonating its vision-mission statements to the world. These better changes and significant influences are manifested in the pedagogical tapestry and vista that can be attuned to the most recent trends in terms of civic responsibilities, practical skill sets, and crucial thinking among students and teachers.
The Gender-Responsive Rug-Making Training and Seminar: A Livelihood Initiative for Community Development held in Barangay Culasi, Ajuy was the proponent of Prof. Cherrylyn M. Macairan, Acting Chairman and Outreach Coordinator of Department of Life Science. The said seminar and training last March 7, 2025, involved the wives of farmers and fishermen of Barangay Culasi, Ajuy. A brief program was carried out as Prof. Kerwin Luntao, CAS Outreach Coordinator, commenced with the Opening Prayer. The Welcome Remarks was led by Prof. Cherrylyn M. Macairan. Then Prof. Sarex Dalida Dipol, Jr., CESLC Director, gave a brief message, while Prof. Rhys de la Banda Camacho, DLMCH Outreach Coordinator, served as the host. When the program was concluded, the aforementioned training and seminar was carried out by Prof. Stephen A. Yuson, CBA Outreach Coordinator, who never ceases to inspire people and engage with the participants.
As reflected in the active collaboration and infectious presence of the Life Science students and 14 other English and Communication majors alongside Dr. Regina E. Samillano, Science Education Program Coordinator, Prof. Ann Marie P. Alguidano, Outreach Coordinator, Department of Chemistry, as well as Dr. Annalee Lacuesta-Cocjin, DLMCH Chair, the insightful and meaningful event left everyone with greater joys and happiness that rugmaking could serve as a vital source of livelihood and a realization of purpose and clarity.