Sikhay Lingkod is NSTP Diliman’s flagship annual event that champions the spirit of service and volunteerism. This dynamic gathering offers students a unique opportunity to connect with various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civic sector agencies dedicated to public service.
The event features a vibrant volunteerism fair, where participants can explore diverse avenues for meaningful engagement and collaboration. Complementing this is a symposium spotlighting distinguished leaders and practitioners from the public service sector. Through insightful discussions, these experts share their best practices, inspiring stories, and valuable lessons in service and volunteerism.
Sikhay Lingkod VII: Volunteerism and Job Fair
As part of the week-long celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the National Service Training Program (NSTP) at UP Diliman, the National Service Reserve Corps, under NSTP Diliman, proudly hosted Sikhay Lingkod VII on October 17–18, 2024. This two-day event brought together volunteer-driven government and non-government organizations, advocacy groups, and dedicated individuals. Held face-to-face in the vibrant campus of UP Diliman, the event highlighted the transformative power of collaboration in driving social impact, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Day 1: Symposium on Volunteerism and Advocacy 🌱
The event commenced at the Pilar Herrera Hall, where prominent voices in volunteerism and social advocacy convened to inspire and engage. Esteemed speakers during the morning session included:
For the afternoon session, they were joined by luminaries who shared the impactful missions and sustainable programs of their organizations. Each presentation underscored the vital role of volunteerism in advancing social progress and community resilience.
Interactive Q&A sessions, moderated by Prof. Dennis Blanco and Prof. Victor Obedicen, enriched the discussions, allowing participants to dive deeper into the challenges and opportunities in advocacy work.
Day 2: Sikhay Lingkod Volunteerism and Job Fair 💼
The second day transformed Osmeña Avenue into a bustling hub of opportunities during the Sikhay Lingkod Volunteerism and Job Fair—a vital event that connected participants with various advocacy groups and organizations. This fair served as a platform for government and non-government organizations, volunteer groups, and advocacies to share their initiatives and goals, fostering a strong network dedicated to volunteerism.
The fair aimed to inspire students and young professionals to engage in community service beyond the requirements of the National Service Training Program (NSTP). By showcasing diverse volunteer opportunities and the transformative impact of service, the event encouraged participants to take an active role in their communities. Through workshops and networking activities, the fair promoted a culture of volunteerism, emphasizing how every action can create meaningful change.
The event officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, graced by:
- Prof. Maria Vanessa Lusung-Oyzon, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
- Dr. Marie Therese Angeline P. Bustos, Director of UP System Ugnayan ng Pahinungod
- Dr. Julius Rhoan Lustro, NSTP Coordinator for the College of Engineering
- Asst. Prof. Olivia Alma G. Sicam, OIC Director of the NSTP Diliman Office
This ceremonial act symbolized the enduring commitment of stakeholders to fostering solidarity and empowering communities through volunteerism.
The Sikhay Lingkod Volunteerism and Job Fair concluded on a high note with heartfelt closing remarks delivered by Sir Ian Lawrence Logan, Deputy Director of NSTP at the College of Human Kinetics. In his address, he emphasized the transformative power of collaboration and encouraged participants to carry forward the spirit of volunteerism in their future endeavors.
Following his speech, a Certificate of Appreciation Awarding Ceremony was held to honor the participation of esteemed organizations whose unwavering dedication made the event a resounding success. These organizations included:
- Autism Society Philippines
- UP Resilience Institute YouthMappers
- Bureau of Jail Management and Penology
- Institute for Solidarity in Asia
- National Commission of Senior Citizens
- AHA! Learning Center
- UP MMDA Vanguard K9
- UP Red Cross Youth
- JCI Makati Princess Urduja
- Rotaract Clubs of Rotary International District 3780
- Ugnayan ng Pahinungod Diliman
- Ugnayan ng Pahinungod System
- World Vision Philippines
- Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA)
- Ardent Paralegal and Business Solutions Inc.
- MapaKalamidad
- ENPAP 4.0 INC.
- Alon Akademie
- HASH – HIV & AIDS Support House, Inc.
- Diliman Gender Office
- National Youth Commission
- Arnold Janssen Kalinga Foundation
The event’s success was made possible with the support of various UP Diliman units, including the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Office of the Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs, College of Social Sciences and Philosophy, College of Engineering, College of Home Economics, UP Diliman Campus Maintenance Office, UP Diliman Public Safety and Security Office, and UPD Transportation Management Office.
The Sikhay Lingkod VII not only highlighted the value of volunteerism but also fostered enduring partnerships that will continue to inspire and empower communities. It was a celebration of service, solidarity, and shared purpose—a true testament to the power of collective action in driving meaningful change.
A Joyful Culmination to the 20th Anniversary of NSTP at UP Diliman 🎉
Following the vibrant Sikhay Lingkod Volunteerism and Job Fair, the weeklong celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the National Service Training Program (NSTP) at UP Diliman culminated in a heartwarming Culminating Night on October 18, 2024.
This final event served as a night of celebration and gratitude, bringing together the NSTP community in a shared spirit of reflection and camaraderie. Central to the evening was the Community Table or potluck dinner, where each college and unit offering NSTP contributed dishes to share. This act of communal dining symbolized the unity and cooperation that underpin the program’s mission of service and engagement.
The night was further enlivened with performances, stories of impact, and expressions of appreciation, encapsulating the collective achievements of NSTP implementers, students, and partners over the past two decades.
The Culminating Night was not just a closing chapter to the anniversary celebration—it was a reaffirmation of the university’s unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of volunteerism, collaboration, and social responsibility.
As we wrap up this milestone celebration, the NSTP Diliman Office extends its heartfelt thanks to all who participated and supported this endeavor. Here’s to more years of meaningful service and transformative education, as we continue to work together for the betterment of our communities and beyond.
By: Marielle M. Lagulay, Senior Project Assistant for Training & Education at NSTP Diliman
Sikhay Lingkod VI: Volunteerism Fair 2023
The National Service Training Program Diliman (NSTP) Office successfully launched Sikhay Lingkod VI: Volunteerism Fair on December 11, 2023. This annual forum brought together volunteer groups from across the country to discuss various aspects of volunteerism and their respective advocacies. A cause for celebration was the return to on-site organization, marking the first occurrence since the pandemic.
Beyond its primary goal of raising awareness about the importance of volunteerism among NSTP students and National Service Reserve Corps (NSRC) reservists, the event successfully introduced them to diverse programs and projects supporting the development of various societal sectors. Throughout this activity, camaraderie was fostered among NSTP students, NSRC reservists, various organizations, and the UP Community, creating numerous opportunities for students to engage in volunteer services or internships.
Bayanihan sa Diliman: The Youth as Volunteer Facilitators
The morning of Sikhay Lingkod VI unfolded with a Bayanihan sa Diliman discussion, focusing on the common module topic of Volunteerism. This was held at UP Diliman Engineering Theater from 9:00 – 11:00 am and was attended by CWTS students from diverse units within UP Diliman . After the symbolic entrance of colors and singing of the national anthem, led by UPD ROTC Rayadillo, Chancellor Edgardo Carlo L. Vistan II, LLM shed light on the profound role and journey of UP Diliman in the realm of Volunteerism.
As the audience absorbed the Chancellor’s words, the spotlight shifted to the key speakers who further illuminated the discussion. Sir Franz Averion, the founder of the National Youth Volunteers Coalition Inc, took the stage, delving into the critical role of youth as volunteer facilitators. His insights provided a foundation for understanding the potential of the younger generation in driving positive change through service.
Continuing the narrative, Prof. Maria Therese Angeline Bustos and Ms. Megan Kaye Marie Reyala from the Ugnayan ng Pahinungod System Office shared their experiences on the Gurong Pahinungod Program. Their discussion underscored the intersection of education and volunteerism, emphasizing the pivotal role of educators in instilling a spirit of service among the youth.
The event then transitioned into a dynamic panel discussion featuring the Program Manager of US Peace Corps Philippines, Roberto Yanco, and Peace Corps volunteer, Joshua Brown. This segment offered a broader, global perspective on volunteerism, emphasizing its universal significance in fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.
Finally, the day concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Maria Vanessa Lusung Oyzon, the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, and Chancellor Edgardo Carlo L. Vistan, expressing gratitude for the shared knowledge and reinforcing UP Diliman’s commitment to nurturing socially responsible leaders.
Sikhay Lingkod: Volunteerism Fair
A prominent feature of Sikhay Lingkod is the Volunteerism Fair, marked by the ceremonial ribbon cutting led by Dr. Maria Vanessa Lusung-Oyzon, the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. As the fair unfolded, a bustling crowd of students eagerly explored volunteering opportunities both domestically and internationally. This year, Sikhay Lingkod witnessed the participation of 27 organizations, each graciously presenting their distinctive initiatives and advocacies.
Sikhay Lingkod: Volunteerism Best Practices
In a culminating session featuring the active participation of Peace Corps Philippines, France Volontaires – Philippines, and UP System Ugnayan ng Pahinungód, the discourse on ‘Best Volunteerism Practices’ unfolded at the UP-Film Institute Film Studio.
The collaborative effort of these organizations underscored the importance of sharing best practices to inspire and guide others in their commitment to community service.
By convening at this esteemed venue, the discussion on ‘Best Volunteerism Practices’ not only facilitated the exchange of valuable insights but also fostered a sense of unity among diverse organizations dedicated to making a positive impact through volunteerism.
By: Marielle M. Lagulay, Senior Project Assistant for Training & Education at NSTP Diliman
Sikhay Lingkod: An Online Volunteerism Fair 2022
This year’s Sikhay Lingkod V highlights public offices, private companies, and volunteer organizations via Zoom to be streamed on Youtube. Through this activity, camaraderie is encouraged between NSTP students, NSRC reservists, and various organizations opening various opportunities for students to render volunteer services or internships.
“Volunteerism as a Developmental Strategy” was presented during the plenary session. Afterwards, UP Diliman NSTP Students and NSRC members are given the chance to choose from five (5) Parallel Sessions.