Tacloban City, Philippines – Last August 28, the Eastern Visayas State University President, Dr. Dennis C. de Paz, resumed his odyssey by visiting 2 satellite campuses alongside key university officials. The tour itinerary included a visit to the Tanauan and Carigara external campuses. A significant segment of the tour was the “HARAMPANG” sessions which aim to promote and strengthen harmony throughout the EVSU community, acknowledge imperative concerns, deliver recent happenings, and draw future plans for the university.
The Legacy Project
This project was the brainchild of former 4th year students, together with faculty and the administration of Tanauan campus. The idea of the Legacy Project was conceived because of the existing problem of congestion within the school. As shared by Engr. Raul Soliva during his speech at the launch, “The problem was the congestion when the students gather.” Through this collaboration, the construction of the new university gate became a reality and a long-term solution to the overcrowding and bottleneck concern in the campus. Through a ribbon-cutting ceremony and blessing, the gate was formally opened to the EVSU Tanauan community.
The campus visit included a program held in the Multi-Purpose Building (MPB) where the gathering was celebrated with guest speakers, namely, Tanauan Mayor Gina E. Merilo, Municipal Engineer Raul Soliva, former student regent Ms. Aaleah Mosca, and EVSU key officials. The former student regent delivered a strong, clear, and uniting address, emphasizing on the transparent process of the Legacy Project. “Our batch has proven that it is not just about money. It is also about hard work, resourcefulness, trying all means, initiatives, and the genuine vision to push through to turn a vision into reality,” stated Ms. Mosca.
A lot amounting to 4 million pesos was granted to EVSU Tanauan as a gesture of support from the local government. Municipal Mayor Merilo is the first mayor of the town to successfully facilitate such a donation. She highlighted in her speech that the local government of Tanauan will fully support EVSU with its endeavors in progress and development from now on and as long as she is in public service.
Campus progress and the legacy of an effective leader
In the afternoon of August 28, President de Paz together with the vice presidents and staff arrived at the Carigara Campus. A warm and vibrant welcome from the Balangay Dance Company greeted the university officials in front of the Multi-Purpose Building (MPB). The “Harampang” immediately commenced that afternoon with almost the entire Carigara delegation present in the venue. The initial discussions involved a few concerns on the uniform policy which was quickly resolved by the president’s reiteration of the administration being open to a “no uniform policy.”
Concerns regarding improvements on some buildings in the vicinity were raised as well. As per Planning Officer III, Architect Bernie Tudio, the revamping of the infrastructure of external campuses including Carigara is a priority of the President. In fact, Architect Tudio is scheduling a visit in all existing satellite campuses to personally observe and monitor the infrastructure conditions in order to draft the proper and most efficient plan for problems that need addressing.
A significant portion of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between EVSU Carigara and the National Consortium for Small-Scale Fisheries Research and Development. This partnership will further strengthen the programs of the university in terms of research and development, specifically, of its Fisheries department.
John Maxwell once said, “A great leader’s courage to fulfill his vision comes from passion, not position.” The Carigara Campus is no doubt fortunate to have a leader who leads with her heart. Dr. Mary Jean Yanger, Campus Director of EVSU Carigara, was genuinely edified by her constituents not because of the level of her position but by the humble workmanship of her heart, mind, and spirit. All throughout the “Harampang” both personnel from the teaching and the non-teaching department generously conveyed their gratitude and admiration to their school director. Specifically thanking Dr. Yanger for instilling efficiency and punctuality in the process and release of the monthly salaries. A senior faculty also relayed his warmest respect and gratitude to the school director for her agility and compassion. “Thank you, ma’am, for being so motherly to all of us,” he said.
It was indeed a productive day for the entire Eastern Visayas State University family. From the celebration of the opening of the newly installed Tanauan gate to EVSU Carigara’s demonstration of harmony. The Odyssey was a testament that truly adheres to the institution’s vision and mission of unity, professionalism and progress.
Written by: MSP |UMDC
Photos by: JSBeleña |UMDC
