By Ma. Sofia Grace N. Salonga

On August 28, 2026, the BECEd Gems continued Paws in Need Year 2: “Every Paw is a Precious GEM” by donating food to rescued Aspins and Puspins at Team Rescue Iloilo Shelter in celebration of Aspin Month 2026.

In Celebration of Aspin Month 2026, the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (BECEd) Gems revisited the Team Rescue Iloilo Shelter on August 28. The Gems donated dog and cat food to rescued Aspins and Puspins, most of whom are still young, recovering, and waiting for their forever homes. Wagging tails, tapping paws, and soft purring filled the shelter as Team Rescue administrator Ms. Marivic Lai and BECEd Program Chair Asst. Prof. Maristel Decio discussed the ongoing partnership.

Paws in Need, Year 2 was spearheaded by Stephanie Tubola together with Krizea De Asis and Ma. Sofia Grace Salonga. They continue to serve as voices of our vulnerable furry friends, advocating for care, support, and adoption.  This shared advocacy of the Gems and Team Rescue Iloilo reminds us of a bond built on compassion between humans and animals, especially the strays who are hurt, neglected, and abandoned. May we all remember that protecting the vulnerable is one of the truest expressions of humanity.

As advocates of care, the BECEd Gems continue to align all their activities with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Paws in Need supports SDGs 11, 15, and 17 – Sustainable Cities and Communities, Life on Land, and Partnership for the Goals, respectively.