Written by: Claire S. Pantoja

Throughout December 2024, as part of National Volunteer Month celebrations, volunteerism expos took place nationwide, offering a platform to explore opportunities and encourage meaningful contributions to communities. Open to the public, these events welcomed over a thousand attendees across the country, including locals, students, and passionate volunteers eager to make a difference. 80 exhibitors participated, including volunteer organizations, academic institutions, national and regional government line agencies, local government units, international volunteer service organizations, non-governmental organizations, and corporations. These exhibitors represented various sectors, such as disaster risk reduction and management, energy, environmental sustainability, social welfare, and youth development.

Each expo brought its own unique charm, but several key elements were consistently present throughout the events. Dialogues and knowledge-sharing sessions offered valuable insights into volunteerism and the various initiatives led by the exhibitors.

Cultural intermission performances added a lively touch to the expos, showcasing local talent and enriching the experience for all attendees. Interactive features, such as freedom walls, booth passports, and raffles, encouraged participants to engage with exhibitors.

The National Volunteer Expo in Cagayan de Oro (CDO) on December 3 at Centrio Mall marked the start of a month-long journey of discovery. The event was made possible through the support of Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy and the Office for Community Affairs, with Department Manager Oliver V. Egypto representing the Mayor during the expo. This initiative was carried out in collaboration with the Ayala Foundation, Inc.

Exhibitors included Andam Higala, Ayala Foundation, City College of CDO, City Government of Cagayan de Oro, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) X, Global Initiative for Exchange and Development (GIED), Kagay-anon Youth Network Alliance, Kusgan Volunteers, Life Project 4 Youth (LP4Y), the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), and the CDO Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA). These organizations highlighted diverse initiatives and volunteer opportunities.

A volunteer engagement forum, featuring Kusgan Volunteers, Inc. and CDO YMCA, sparked discussions on active citizenship and the collective power of volunteering, underscoring the value of collaboration in driving positive change.

Complementing the expo, activities such as the “Dugong Kagay-anon Year 2” blood donation drive and the Department of Labor and Employment’s “Uswag Opportunities” job fair encouraged further community involvement. DSWD X also provided consultations and referrals to social services, addressing various community needs.

The National Volunteer Month Celebration expo in Baguio, held on December 6-7 at Malcolm Square, united a diverse group of individuals passionate about volunteerism. Organized by the City Government of Baguio through the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), the event offered participants the opportunity to connect with organizations dedicated to education, healthcare, and environmental conservation, reinforcing the message that volunteerism is for everyone, regardless of background or interests.

A diverse group of exhibitors showcased their work, providing attendees with opportunities to connect and contribute. Military and civic organizations, including the 122nd Naval Combat Support Squadron Reserve, 14th CAR Regional Community Defense Group, and 21st Air Force Group Reserve, demonstrated their roles in promoting community resilience. First responders such as 911 On-Call Inc., the Baguio City Fire Station, and Kabalikat Civicom emphasized the importance of safety and preparedness.

The Philippine Army and PRC offered insights into their critical humanitarian efforts, while international organizations like Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) and United States Peace Corps (USPC) brought a global perspective to the event. Local initiatives, such as those led by Deltans Zigzag, showcased the creativity and dedication of grassroots movements.

Central to the celebration were the Organization Showcase and Recruitment Fair, which inspired attendees to find their place in the vibrant ecosystem of volunteerism.

The expo was attended by Mayor Benjamin Magalong and Punong Barangay Levy Lloyd Orcales who authored the ordinance establishing a volunteer program for the city.

A few days after, on December 9, the TatakBOLUNTIR Fun Run and Volunteerism Exhibit unfolded at Pangasinan State University’s (PSU’s) Lingayen Campus, blending fitness with a deeper purpose. The event sought to raise awareness about critical issues such as environmental sustainability and the fight against violence toward women and children, using the power of community engagement.

The fun run embodied the event’s theme of health and community involvement. Participants, eager to support a meaningful cause, ran not just for fitness, but to raise awareness for the causes that matter most to them. Through the run, they demonstrated the true spirit of TatakBOLUNTIR—volunteerism with purpose.

Exhibitors include the various PSU campuses such as Alaminos, Asingan, Bayambang, Binmaley, Infanta, Lingayen, San Carlos, Santa Maria, and Urdaneta. Each campus highlighted its contributions to volunteerism, showcasing unique initiatives that demonstrate how students and faculty members are giving back to their communities. In addition, other organizations participated, including the Local Government Unit of Lingayen, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) I, PSU School of Advanced Studies and Open University Systems, and the Gender and Development Office. These groups collectively shared their ongoing efforts and dedication to promoting volunteerism in various forms.

Visitors to the exhibit were inspired by the powerful stories and interactive displays that showcased the many ways volunteerism can manifest—whether through advocacy, hands-on participation, or educational outreach. The event effectively conveyed how every act of service, big or small, contributes to creating positive change in society.

By the end of the day, the event had proven that when communities come together with a shared commitment, real change is possible. The TatakBOLUNTIR Fun Run and Volunteerism Exhibit not only raised awareness about vital issues but also left a lasting impression on everyone involved, reminding all that volunteerism can take many forms and that each effort makes a difference.

Volunteerism has the power to drive meaningful change and strengthen communities, creating a positive impact for the greater good. Volunteerism expos provide a unique platform for individuals and organizations to come together, explore shared causes, and find opportunities for collaboration. These events connect attendees with causes that align with their values, offering insights into how they can contribute to their communities. By bringing together a wide array of organizations and initiatives, volunteerism expos inspire action, foster a sense of purpose, and empower individuals to make a tangible difference.

On December 14, the Volunteerism Expo at SM Telebastagan, San Fernando, Pampanga, became a vibrant hub for community-building efforts. The expo featured a range of exhibitors, including City College of Angeles (CCA), City College of San Fernando Pampanga, Empower Philippines, Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU), Subic Clark Alliance for Development (SCAD), Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU), Tarlac State University (TSU), the USPC, and Vessels of Humanity Foundation, Inc. Each of these organizations showcased their ongoing projects and efforts aimed at community development, sustainability, and social impact.

The success of the event was amplified by the collaboration between several key institutions. PSAU, TAU, TSU, SCAD, and NEDA III all worked together to organize and promote the expo. The event was further elevated by the presence of distinguished individuals who graced the occasion with their participation. Dir. Carlo D. de Dios of the PSAU Office of Public Affairs and International Linkages; Dr. Marianne P. Villaruel, Director of the TAU Student Placement Office; Dr. Agnes M. Macaraeg, TSU Vice President for Academic Affairs; Regional Dir. Nerissa T. Esguerra of NEDA III; Atty. Amee Z. Fabros, SCAD Executive Director; and Dir. Arceli Macasieb of the CCA Community Extension Office, all contributed their time and expertise, adding to the event’s prestige.

Images retrieved from the Subic Clark Alliance for Development

Meanwhile, the Palawan Provincial Volunteer Expo on December 14 at Robinsons Mall, Puerto Princesa, offered an accessible platform for residents to connect with local organizations. Organized by the Palawan Provincial DRRMO (PDRRMO), the expo was part of the first Provincial DRRM Auxiliary Summit.

Exhibitors included the 42nd National Government Reserve, Action Against Hunger, Alpha Phi Omega, Bantay Bayan Foundation, Junior Chamber International Puerto Princesa Oil, Kiwanis International, Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary, Palawan DRR Auxiliary Group, and Philippine National Police Reaction 166. These organizations presented valuable information on disaster risk reduction volunteerism, as well as education, environmental conservation, and law enforcement initiatives.

Interactive exhibits encouraged attendees to actively engage with the organizations, learn more about their missions, and explore volunteer opportunities. The Palawan Provincial Volunteer Expo not only celebrated National Volunteer Month but also fostered stronger ties between residents and the organizations working to make a positive impact on their lives.

The expo welcomed key officials who contributed to the event’s success. Among them were Mr. Jeremias Y. Alili, Head of the Palawan PDRRMO; Mr. Cruzalde B. Ablaña, Assistant Department Head of the PDRRMO; Ms. Sharlene Daquer-Vilches, Head of the Provincial Planning and Development Office; and Ms. Abigail D. Ablana, Provincial SWD Officer.

On December 18, the Bayanihang QC: Volunteerism Expo took place at Gateway Mall in Quezon City (QC), celebrating the Filipino spirit of bayanihan—unity and collective action for community strengthening. The event, organized by the QC Government with support from the J. Amado Araneta Foundation, Inc., brought together a diverse array of exhibitors from both the public and private sectors, creating a dynamic platform for collaboration and connection.

Among the participants were the Australian Volunteers Program (AVP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), DSWD National Resource and Logistics Management Bureau, France Volontaires (FV), GIED, JOCV, the National Youth Volunteers Coalition (NYVC), PRC, the QC Business Permit and Licensing Department, Human Resource Management Department, Parks Development and Administration Department, Public Library, and other offices.

A highlight of the expo was the panel discussion featuring Quezon City’s 2024 Local Outstanding Volunteer Awardees, FV, NYVC, and the QC Government. Their inspiring stories of dedication and community impact not only honored the values of volunteerism but also showcased how individual efforts can lead to meaningful change. Through their narratives, the event reinforced the power of unity and the collective strength of communities working together for a common cause.

The program was graced by Mayor Joy Belmonte, City Administrator Mike Alimurung, QC Department heads, J. Amado Araneta Foundation Executive Director Christine Romero, and Councilor Anton Reyes, author of the ordinance adopting and implementing the Volunteer Act of 2007 in the city.

The final expo, CAPIZBISIG: Volunteers Expo, was held on December 19 as a collaborative effort between the Provincial Government of Capiz and Capiz State University (CAPSU). A diverse group of exhibitors showcased their dedication to volunteerism, each contributing to the theme of service and community engagement. The Borres Youth Leadership Institute, Inc. and Capiz Eco Youth Volunteers were present, inspiring young people to lead with purpose. CAPSU, alongside the CASAC – Laudato Si Warriors, demonstrated the role of education and faith in cultivating a culture of volunteerism.

Organizations like the DSWD VI and Gawad Kalinga Capiz showcased their long-standing commitment to social welfare and community empowerment, while the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office highlighted the connection between volunteerism and the preservation of Capiz’s cultural heritage. Filamer Christian University also presented its efforts in fostering civic responsibility through education.

Pilmico Foods Corporation demonstrated how businesses can integrate social responsibility into their operations, while the Red Cross Capiz and the United States Peace Corps reinforced the global scope of volunteer work, emphasizing humanitarian aid and international collaboration. Fanfreluche Enterprises, Inc. brought a fresh perspective, showing how entrepreneurship can contribute to volunteer-driven initiatives.

The event was honored by the presence of distinguished guests: Mr. Ronald Allan F. Cullon, EnP., Acting Capiz Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office Head; Dr. Efren L. Linan, CAPSU President; and Dr. Leo Andrew B. Biclar, CAPSU Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension. Their participation added further depth and significance to the event, highlighting the importance of volunteerism and community engagement.

The volunteerism expos of December 2024 highlighted the vital role of volunteerism in strengthening communities and driving positive change. By bringing together organizations and individuals, these events fostered meaningful connections and provided valuable opportunities for collaboration. The expos showcased the diverse ways in which volunteering can support causes such as environmental sustainability, social welfare, and disaster risk reduction, illustrating the collective power of communities working together. These events not only promoted active participation but also helped lay the groundwork for a continued culture of volunteerism, encouraging ongoing engagement and support for initiatives that benefit society.

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Visit the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency website (www.pnvsca.gov.ph) and PNVSCA Facebook (facebook.com/PNVSCA) for other stories and information on volunteering.