Written by: Pia P. Castillo

In recognition of the dedicated service of Filipino volunteers, the month of December was declared as the National Volunteer Month (NVM) under Presidential Proclamation No. 55, series of 1998.

To mark the start of a nationwide celebration under the theme “Igniting Volunteer-Led Innovation for Future Growth and Social Transformation: Bolunterismo Tungo sa Bagong Pilipinas,” Cagayan de Oro City, known as the “City of Golden Friendship,” hosted the 2024 National Volunteer Month (NVM) Kick Off on December 1st with an inspiring and vibrant event. Led by the City Government Officials and coordinated by the City Volunteerism and Active Citizenship Program Office, the celebration recognized the importance of volunteerism and emphasized how volunteer-led innovation can drive future growth and social transformation.

December 1st was a day brimming with energy and purpose, truly bringing the spirit of volunteerism to life. The day kicked off with a heartfelt mass at St. Augustine Cathedral, honoring National Volunteer Month and setting a reflective tone for the exciting activities to come.

As the afternoon unfolded, over 1,000 volunteers and participants from all walks of life and from all over the country gathered for the eagerly awaited “BayaniRun: Volunteer Fun Run”. The excitement was evident as the event kicked off with a high-energy 30-minute Zumba session at Plaza Divisoria, energizing the runners before they lined up for the race.

Getting ready before the race begins! Zumba session to warm participants up for the Bayani Run.
(Photo courtesy of Cagayan De Oro City LGU)

The BayaniRun was more than just a race—it was a powerful reminder that volunteerism has no boundaries, transcending age, gender, background, or ability. It was a call to action, inspiring participants to take that first step toward creating positive change—whether through volunteering, supporting social causes, or simple acts of kindness. Every stride taken and every smile shared reflected the true spirit of volunteerism—igniting change, fostering connections, and paving the way for a more inclusive, hopeful future.

And they’re off! Over 1,000 runners, united by purpose and passion, taking the first step in the Bayani Run.
(Photo courtesy of Cagayan De Oro City LGU)

The run beautifully symbolized the impact of volunteerism in action, uniting people in a movement fueled by service, peace, and a shared vision of a brighter tomorrow.

Cooling down with a splash of fun!  The foam bath was the perfect way to wrap up the Bayani Run – adding a little extra excitement to the finish line!
(Photo courtesy of Cagayan De Oro City LGU)

After gearing up for the Bayani Run and hitting the streets with purpose, the excitement seamlessly shifted to the Community Amphitheatre, where the day reached its peak with a vibrant Kick-Off Ceremony launching National Volunteer Month 2024. The ceremony was a whirlwind of inspiring speeches, interactive activities, and energetic performances that reinforced the crucial role of volunteerism in building stronger, more resilient communities.

Cagayan de Oro City Councilor Ian Mark Nacaya emphasized the importance of institutionalizing volunteerism. He highlighted that Mayor Uy had issued an Executive Order for the creation of a sustainable platform for volunteerism, one that engages not just the local government but the entire community. “This platform will empower our citizens to drive meaningful change, turning volunteerism into a force that propels the city’s development,” Nacaya explained. 

Regional Director Mylah Faye Aurora B. Cariño of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Region X congratulated the Cagayan de Oro City government for its outstanding leadership in volunteerism, praising the volunteers with the words, “Volunteers are not just performing noble acts; they are the driving force behind community development.”

Meanwhile, Forum ZFD Executive Director Dirgha Sigdel expressed unwavering support for the national volunteer service program, sharing, “This movement of volunteerism is not just about giving; it’s about celebrating the power of connection and empowering individuals to become catalysts for change.”

In this photo, from L-R: CDO City Councilor Ian Mark Nacaya, Forum ZFD Executive Director Dirgha Sigdel and PNVSCA Executive Director Donald James D. Gawe
(Photo courtesy of Cagayan De Oro City LGU)

PNVSCA Executive Director Donald James D. Gawe also commended the Cagayan de Oro City Government for its swift and effective actions to institutionalize volunteerism, making the city a model for Mindanao and setting a national benchmark.

The event wrapped up with the unveiling of the NVM 2024 Calendar of Activities and a Ceremonial Pledge of Commitment, where participants, sectoral representatives, and community leaders made a public pledge to advance volunteerism. This symbolic moment emphasized our collective responsibility to foster stronger, more connected communities, one act of kindness at a time.

Signing and displaying the commitment pledge on the Commitment Tree to promote and advance volunteerism.
(Photo courtesy of Cagayan De Oro City LGU)

Other key activities that contributed to the success of the NVM kickoff included three national trainings co-organized with the Philippine Association of Extension Program Implementers, Inc. (PAEPI), the Philippine Association of Practitioners of Student Affairs and Services, Inc. (PAPSAS), and the Philippine Society of NSTP Educators and Implementers (PSNEI). These trainings focused on the following themes: Igniting Change: Volunteerism and Gender Equity in Extension Services, Strengthening Volunteerism: Empowering the Youth of Today, and Training the Trainers on Volunteer Management for Effective NSTP/NSRC Implementation in Developing the Youth for Nation Building. Additional highlights included a bamboo planting initiative along the riverbank in Barangay Balulang, a guesting segment on CDO City radio featuring PNVSCA Executive Director Donald James D. Gawe and Tarlac State University Extension Director Engr. Emir S.F. Sicangco, as well as the Volunteerism Expo and the Public Sector Volunteerism and Volunteer Engagement Forum held at Centrio Mall.

The National Volunteer Month kick-off was a powerful reminder that volunteerism is not just a catalyst for positive change, but a force that unites us all in the shared mission of creating a brighter, more inclusive future. This is a call to every Filipino: rise, take action, and be the change you want to see. Together, we hold the power to transform our communities, shape a better tomorrow, and leave a lasting legacy of kindness and service for generations to come.

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The author is currently the Senior Volunteer Service Officer of the Program Coordination, Monitoring and Evaluation Division (PCMED), 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.