The College of Information and Communications Technology Local Student Council (CICT LSC), in partnership with the college’s administration, spearheaded the first session of “ARISE: A Roadway to Invigorating and Satisfied Existence” in CICT’s AVR on September 29, 2023, at 4:20 PM.
The event aims to enhance leadership skills, reinforce core values, and foster spiritual growth. It started with a warm welcome to all student leader attendees led by Carelle Sarsaba, the event’s MC and member of LSC. That was followed by a short opening prayer and an icebreaker that energized all session attendees.
As the event moved forward, Dr. Keno Piad, the Dean of CICT, took the floor in his short welcoming speech. In his remarks, Dr. Piad stated the event’s purpose. He also mentioned that it is expected to occur once and for one hour every month.
“Para aside sa technical skills, maging holistic ‘yung development ng estudyante ng BulSU, especially ng CICT,” Dr. Piad quoted. He also revealed the plans and projects that he envisioned for the college.
Shortly after the speech, Dr. Piad introduced Attorney Pastor Allan D. Romero, the guest speaker of the event. Pastor Romero introduced his topic, which is about the importance of life.
The event progressed with the student leaders closing their eyes as they wholeheartedly sang worship songs before having a heartfelt prayer afterward.
After the prayer, Pastor Romer began his talk. His topic revolved around self-worth, the importance of life, and unconditional love, to which he provided examples to which the student leaders related.
“Love can change people. Love can change life,” Pastor Romero quoted as he referenced Iron Man actor Robert Downey Jr. as one of these examples in his talk about one’s self-worth and the concept of unconditional love. Pastor Romero also used a 1,000 peso bill as a reference to prove that in whatever state a person may be in his life, he will always remain worthy and important. To help everyone reflect on his preaching, Pastor Romero led a prayer afterward.
The session became more social as the attendees were divided into 9 groups, each with assigned leaders, for sharing insights and further reflection regarding the topic.
As the event reached its closing part, Elia Margarete De Guia, the Governor of CICT LSC, stated her special message to all student leaders and people behind the success of the event’s first session. “Ang CICT LSC ay bukas po sa pakikipagtulungan sa mga events man ito, or advocating student needs or promoting inclusivity sa ating CICT dahil iisa lang naman ang layunin nating lahatโit’s to serve the students,” Gov. De Guia quoted as she expressed her gratitude for the event’s success and trust to all student leaders, of CICT in particular. – Jian Zharese Joeis Sanz
