GSU - National Service Training Program

Happy Birthday Dr. Lilian Diana B. Parreño - Guimaras State University President.

𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭, 𝐃𝐫. 𝐋𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐃𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐚 𝐁. 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐧̃𝐨

There are days that arrive softly, as if they mean to remind an institution of the heart that steadies it. Today is such a day, as Guimaras State University turns its gaze toward the birthday of our President, Dr. Lilian Diana B. Parreño.

Your stewardship has been molded by a rare composure—one that tempers ambition, steadies change, and brings order to even the busiest corridors. Under your watch, the university has learned to grow without losing its manners, to aspire without forgetting its duties, and to dream without misplacing its sense of purpose.

Your presence lingers in the everyday rituals of the campus: in the thoughtful pacing of meetings, in the careful keeping of standards, and in the quiet encouragement offered to those who labor within its walls. What you have cultivated is a community that listens, reflects, and moves forward with grace.

On this occasion, the GSU family offers its warm regard and enduring esteem. May the year ahead unfold with sound health, an untroubled spirit, and moments of quiet satisfaction worthy of a life devoted to the common good.

Once again, warm wishes to our University President on your birthday!

GUARDIANS OF BACJAOAN: A COASTAL CLEAN UP DRIVE AND MANGROVE PLANTING ACTIVITY

On June 14, 2025, Guimaras State University (GSU) students and faculty gathered at Brgy. Bacjao, Buenavista, for the "Guardians of Bacjaoan: A Coastal Clean-Up Drive and Mangrove Planting Activity." This environmental initiative focused on restoring the local coastline and strengthening the coastal ecosystem through the strategic planting of mangrove propagules. The event not only addressed immediate pollution but also served as a long-term commitment to protecting the biodiversity of Guimaras, fostering a sense of environmental stewardship among the participants.

The activity’s seamless ex*****on was made possible through the collaborative leadership of NSTP Adviser Rie Nier T. Lacamba and NSTP Director Dr. Ma. Xy J. Yanguas. Mr. Lacamba’s hands-on coordination with the local barangay officials ensured a productive site for the students, while Dr. Yanguas provided the strategic vision and institutional support necessary to scale the project. Together, their efforts highlighted the university’s dedication to community-based environmental action, empowering students to become active "guardians" of their natural heritage.

GSU EMPOWERS NSTP STUDENTS With VITAL FIRST AID TRAINING

Guimaras State University (GSU) conducted a university-wide First Aid Training for all NSTP students last May 10, 2025, focusing on life-saving skills like basic life support and emergency response. Through hands-on simulations and practical demonstrations, the university gymnasium became a training hub designed to transform students into capable first responders. This initiative bridges the gap between classroom theory and real-world crisis management, ensuring students are prepared to serve their communities effectively.

The program's success was driven by the dedicated leadership of NSTP Director Dr. Ma. Xy J. Yanguas, who coordinated with medical experts and local disaster offices to provide high-quality instruction. Dr. Yanguas emphasized the importance of youth preparedness, motivating students to embrace their roles as proactive nation-builders. Her commitment has turned this training into a benchmark for student development at GSU, fostering a strong culture of resilience and civic duty.

"RUN FOR THE NATION, RISE AS ONE": GSU CONCLUDES 2025 BAYANI RUN

Guimaras State University successfully concluded its Bayani Run 2025 with the theme "Run for the Nation, Rise as One" on December 17, 2025, bringing together students, faculty, and local community members in a vibrant display of unity and health. The event, held at the GSU Salvador Campus, served as the centerpiece of the university's celebration of National Volunteer Month. Participants competed in various race categories, with many donning creative costumes for the "Bayani Attire Showdown," a unique segment that honors Filipino heroes and modern-day icons of service.

NSTP Director and DRRMCCA Chair Dr. Ma. XY J. Yanguas lauded the massive turnout, noting that the run has become a vital tradition in fostering the "GSU brand" of excellence and community engagement. Beyond the competitive spirit, the Bayani Run 2025 underscored the critical intersection of volunteerism and physical fitness. By participating in the advocacy-driven race, runners not only prioritized their cardiovascular health and wellness but also contributed to a culture of selfless service. The National Service Training Program (NSTP) office, which spearheaded the event, emphasized that the initiative aims to mold students into "fit and functional" citizens who are ready to respond to the needs of the province.

This year's run proved that when a community moves together with a shared purpose, it strengthens both the body and the spirit of bayanihan, reinforcing GSU’s commitment to holistic development and social responsibility.

GSU’s CAMPUS LIFE SAVERS AND RCY VOLUNTEERS ENSURE SAFETY At SPORTS FEST 2025

The recently concluded Guimaras State University (GSU) Sports Fest 2025 was marked by competitive spirit and a commitment to safety, thanks to the swift and efficient deployment of the Campus Life Savers and the College Red Cross Youth (RCY) Volunteers.

These dedicated student teams were strategically stationed across all sporting venues, providing immediate, life-saving first aid to athletes and spectators alike. Their presence was a visible reassurance, as they adeptly handled common sports-related incidents, from minor cuts and abrasions to more serious sprains and instances of heat exhaustion. This proactive volunteer effort significantly contributed to the overall success and smooth running of the demanding week-long festival, underscoring the university's priority on student well-being.

The successful operation is a proud outcome of the university's strong civic programs, warranting special commendation for the leaders who instilled this culture of readiness and service. Sincere gratitude and congratulations are extended to Dr. Ma. Xy J. Yanguas, the NSTP Director / DRRMCCA Chair, whose vision guides the training of these life-savers, and to Instr. Rie Nier T. Lacamba, the dedicated adviser, for their tireless mentorship and hands-on guidance.

The extraordinary service of the Campus Life Savers and College RCY Volunteers stands as a model of volunteerism, leaving an enduring legacy of care and preparedness at Guimaras State University.

SAFETY FIRST: GSU NSTP PHYSICAL EXERCISE PROMOTES FITNESS WHILE SECURING WELLNESS

GSU-NSTP successfully conducted a massive, unified Physical Exercise on Saturday, December 6, 2025. From 7:30 am to 10:30 am, all NSTP students, including those in the CWTS, LTS, and ROTC components, engaged in simultaneous fitness drills on the GSU Grounds across the Salvador, Mosqueda, and Baterna Campuses. This major mobilization, approved by NSTP Director Dr. Ma. Xy J. Yanguas, required students to wear their NSTP Uniform showcasing a unified commitment to discipline and readiness.

The physical training is an essential element of the NSTP, going beyond mere attendance. For CWTS and LTS students, fitness builds the endurance, resilience, and mental discipline needed for effective community service, especially during long-term initiatives or immediate disaster response and relief operations. By participating, students also cultivate the teamwork and camaraderie vital for collaborative projects in the community.
A critical layer of security was provided by the dedicated student volunteers of the Campus Life Savers and College Red Cross Youth Volunteers. These teams were strategically deployed to provide immediate on-site medical and first aid services, ensuring prompt response to any physical distress or minor injuries. Their proactive presence underscored the university's commitment to securing the well-being of all participants alongside promoting fitness.

The flawless ex*****on of the exercise was a testament to the guidance provided by the ROTC Officers and the Philippine Army. The university specially recognized the leadership of LTC Jose A Villasis, PA (RES) - GSU ROTC Commandant and SGT. Decion Joe Gahum, PA, who oversaw the structured training that was both challenging and safe.

The Dec. 6 physical exercise reaffirmed GSU’s dedication to producing students who are not only academically capable but also physically ready and supported by a vigilant campus safety team.

GSU-CAMPUS LIFE SAVERS And COLLEGE RED CROSS YOUTH STAND READY AT BUENA PASKWA OPENING OF LIGHTS

The festive spirit of the Buena Paskwa Opening of Lights ceremony on December 5, 2025, at the Municipal Auditorium in Buenavista, Guimaras was not only marked by dazzling illumination but also by a commitment to safety, thanks to the vigilant presence of the GSU-Campus Life Savers and the College Red Cross Youth (CRCY).

The student volunteers were deployed throughout the event to ensure the well-being of the attendees, embodying the spirit of community service and disaster preparedness. Their proactive presence provided peace of mind for the University community as the campus officially kicked off the holiday season.

This essential deployment was made possible through the full support and recognition of the university administration. Special acknowledgment is given to University President Dr. Lilian Diana B. Parreño for her continuous backing of student welfare initiatives.

The entire operation was overseen by Dr. Ma. Xy J. Yanguas, NSTP Director and DRRMCCA Chair, highlighting the integration of safety and emergency response into the core campus activities. Furthermore, the dedication and medical expertise of University Nurse, Mrs. Jean G. Baterzal, were also integral to ensuring the readiness of the first-responder teams.

The successful supervision of the team’s participation was managed by their dedicated adviser, Instr. Rie Nier T. Lacamba, whose guidance ensures the volunteers are always prepared to act as first responders.

The GSU-Campus Life Savers and CRCY demonstrated once again their crucial role on campus, ensuring that the celebration remained safe, joyful, and memorable for everyone present.