LU Empowers Youth to Drive Volunteerism through KaduaCon

By: Loren M. Obillo, GPC-OPPDC | Photos By: OPPDC | Date: January 5, 2024


The Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) through the Office of the Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator (OPPDC) conducted the KaduaCon! Kadua Volunteerism Conference via Video Conferencing on January 5, 2024.

The KaduaCon centered around the theme “Kabataan, Bida Volunteers: Unleash the Hero in You!” which warrants the participation of our youth, along with fellow volunteers, as an integral part of our vision to become “The Heart of Agri-Tourism in Northern Luzon by 2025.”

The activity was attended by 190 kaPROBINSYAnihan with the majority coming from the youth of various Colleges and Universities in La Union, along with the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee on People’s Organizations, Non-Government Organizations and Indigenous Peoples, PGLU Volunteer Focal Persons, Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA), Philippine Nurses Association - La Union Chapter, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) - Regional Office I. With their involvement, the activity aims to promote civic engagement among the youth by encouraging their involvement and participation in volunteer programs of the government to deliver transformational change in their communities.

On behalf of Gov. Raphaelle Veronica “Rafy” Ortega-David, Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator, Ms. Michaela Louise T. Delfinado delivered her message to the young volunteers, “These successes are a collection of the contributions of each and every Kaprobinsiaan who believe that La Union deserves good governance and transformational leadership. And these efforts that everyone makes – all these emanate from the spirit of volunteerism and selflessness.”

LTC. Kenneth C. Siruelo, MNSA, PA (RES) , OIC - Policy Advocacy and Technical Services Division of PNVSCA, discussed the fundamental concepts of volunteerism, emphasizing its various forms and characteristics. He expounded on the positive effects of volunteerism on public welfare, including the creation of more cohesive, secure, and resilient communities and as well as the enhancement of knowledge and skills among the constituents.

Mr. John Paul F. Naoe, 2023 Search for Outstanding Volunteers-Regional Awardee, founder of La Union Volunteers Club (LUVC), and Founder/President of ABEL Inc., addressed Volunteerism in the 21st Century discussing it as a privilege, the importance of finding the right volunteer work, and maximizing online platforms to discover various volunteering opportunities.

Ms. Kristel Gizelle A. Beñas, 2023 Search for Outstanding Volunteers-Regional Awardee, President of Philippine Nurses Association - La Union Chapter, shared insights on personal and career growth through volunteerism and why the world needs more volunteers. She shared the benefits of volunteering such as the discovery of inner calling, passion and purpose; overall transformation in ability to express emotions; enhancement of team working abilities; promote good health; and valuable Interpersonal skills.

Mr. Rey B. Ferreria of NEDA – Region 1 discussed the alignment of Volunteerism to the Ambisyon Natin 2040. In support, Ms. Fatima Ross E. Perez, Volunteer Focal Person of Region 1, discussed the RDC-1 Resolution No. 85, s. 2023, Institutionalizing Volunteerism as a Development Strategy in the Ilocos Region and the role the PGLU will play in capacitating its component LGUs and kaprobinsiaan.

With the success of KaduaCon, the PGLU anticipates increased volunteer engagement in future activities, solidifying the province's commitment to #LaUnionPROBINSYAnihan.

Related Photos: