Written by: Maribel F. Larracochea

The Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA), led by its Executive Director, Mr. Donald James D. Gawe, CESO III, facilitated a training on strengthening volunteerism in Las Piñas City, on August 31 to September 01, at Tanza Oasis Hotel and Resort in Cavite City upon the request of the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO). The activity was designed to enhance the capacity of CSWDO staff in crafting a volunteerism policy and identification of appropriate programs and projects that will support its efforts to promote volunteerism as a way of life.

The training aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to integrate and mainstream volunteerism into their plans and policies. Participants also gained insights into effective volunteer management practices, which will help ensure the success of their volunteer programs and initiatives.

The participants shared that the training deepened their understanding of the significance of volunteerism in social development. It also clarified the essential role they play in creating a supportive environment for volunteerism within their communities. Ms. Lowefe T. Romulo, CSWDO Head, expressed her gratitude to PNVSCA, encouraging her team to lead the charge in promoting and strengthening volunteerism throughout Las Piñas City. As a key output of the training, vthe CSWDO presented a draft Ordinance on Volunteerism, which will further institutionalize volunteer initiatives in the city.

Facilitating the training alongside Director Gawe were Mr. Kenneth C. Siruelo, Officer-in-Charge of the Policy, Advocacy, and Technical Services Division of PNVSCA, and Ms. Maribel F. Larracochea, Senior Volunteer Service Officer. This initiative is part of PNVSCA’s ongoing efforts to collaborate with local government units (LGUs) across the country, supporting the institutionalization of volunteerism as mandated by Republic Act 9418, or the Volunteer Act of 2007.

Through such partnerships, PNVSCA continues to empower LGUs to foster a culture of volunteerism, further promoting social development and civic engagement nationwide.

ACTIVITY PHOTOS:

###

The author is currently the Senior Volunteer Service Officer of the Policy, Advocacy and Technical Services Division (PATSD), Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency.

Visit PNVSCA website (www.pnvsca.gov.ph) and PNVSCA Facebook (facebook.com/PNVSCA) for other stories and information on volunteering.