January 14,  2024 - Despite heavy rain and rough seas, Romblon State University (RSU) officials and staff pushed through with their first community outreach program of 2025, delivering donated goods to residents of Puro Island in Sta. Fe, Romblon.

Led by RSU President Dr. Merian P. Catajay-Mani and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Emelyn F. Montoya, university staff navigated challenging weather conditions to reach the remote island community in Barangay Guinbirayan.

The outreach effort marked the initial activity of RSU's University Community Engagement through Sustainable Services (UNICESS) program, which entered its second phase in October 2024 in other areas such as Sitio Dayongdong and Cabibihan.

Working in coordination with Sta. Fe Campus Director Dr. Rey Rasgo and Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Joven Rodaje, the RSU team distributed food packs, pre-loved clothing, and footwear to island residents.

The donated items were collected during the university's Sustainable Giving Campaign in December 2024, with significant contributions coming through the National Service Training Program (NSTP).

OMPA’s Tree lighting campaign also yielded proceeds utilized to purchase food packs for approximately 100 residents of the island.

"Our commitment to serving island communities doesn't stop because of bad weather," said Dr. Catajay-Mani. "These isolated areas need the most support, no matter what difficulties we may encounter in reaching them."

The initiative reflects RSU's ongoing efforts to extend educational and humanitarian support to remote communities within its service areas, demonstrating the institution's dedication to sustainable community development.

Brgy Guinbirayan of Puro Island in Sta. Fe is one of the geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) identified and selected by RSU’s University Community Engagement through Sustainable Services (UNICESS), Pres. Mani’s advocacy and volunteer program.

Source/Credits: RSU Media and Public Affairs