Written by: Pia P. Castillo

On February 14, 2025, representatives from the Organization for Industrial Spiritual and Cultural Advancement (OISCA) visited the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) for a formal exit meeting.  Mr. Yukihiro Ishibashi, OISCA Philippines’ Resident Representative, is retiring from OISCA in March 2025 and will return to Japan to reunite with his family.

In a meaningful gesture of gratitude and respect, Mr. Ishibashi made it a priority to visit PNVSCA before his departure, personally expressing his deep appreciation for the partnership between the two organizations. He acknowledged the vital role PNVSCA has played—and will continue to play—in supporting OISCA’s initiatives across the Philippines.

PNVSCA, in turn, recognized Mr. Ishibashi’s significant contributions to the country, commending his unwavering dedication and positive attitude despite the challenges he encountered during his tenure.

Beyond the formal exit meeting, PNVSCA Executive Director, Mr. Donald James D. Gawe, shared insightful recommendations to help sustain and enhance OISCA’s programs in the future. Both organizations expressed a shared sense of optimism for the road ahead, with OISCA enthusiastic about renewing and deepening its partnership with PNVSCA in the coming years. PNVSCA, for its part, remains fully committed to nurturing partnerships that drive positive social change and looks forward to furthering collaboration with OISCA in advancing volunteerism, cultural exchange, and community development.

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.