More than 200 employees of the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) convened online on May 8 for a dynamic “Volunteerism 101” session in partnership with the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA), reinforcing the vital role of volunteerism in transforming public service and strengthening communities nationwide.
The initiative marks a significant step in DAP’s commitment to embed the spirit of bayanihan into its institutional culture, aligning with the Volunteer Act of 2007 and advancing whole-of-government efforts toward inclusive and participatory development.
Opening the session, DAPPER President Melonie Tejol underscored how volunteerism naturally complements the mission of public servants.
“As DAP employees, service is already part of who we are. Volunteerism just gives us another way to share our skills, learn from others, and contribute to causes that matter — sometimes in small ways, sometimes in life-changing ones,” Tejol said.
Leading the discussion was PNVSCA Chief Volunteer Service Officer Kenneth Siruelo, who highlighted the transformative impact of volunteerism and the need for stronger multi-sectoral collaboration to address national challenges.
“Ang volunteerism ay hindi kayang gawin ng isang sektor lang kaya ang PNVSCA ay nagbubukas ng espasyo para sa multi-sectoral collaboration, [para sa] government, private sector, civil society, akademya, at maging international partners,” Siruelo emphasized.
He further explained that PNVSCA’s role goes beyond connecting organizations, stressing the agency’s mission to align volunteer efforts, uphold standards, and build a unified volunteer ecosystem — from local communities to international partnerships.
The session also spotlighted inspiring stories from DAP employees who continue to make meaningful contributions through volunteer work. Sydney Joseph Torrenueva shared how his passion for service began in grade school and evolved through the BAGANI: Rising Leaders Development Program. Meanwhile, Richa Tibo reflected on her volunteer work with the United Nations, while Felix Caraan discussed his service initiatives with the GMA Kapuso Foundation.
Highlighting the deeper value of volunteer engagement, Siruelo emphasized that while volunteer work may be unpaid, its contributions to national development and economic growth are immeasurable.
Echoing this sentiment, DAPPER representative Sheila Tabuzo emphasized the heart of volunteerism rooted in the Filipino spirit of solidarity.
“Through the spirit of bayanihan, volunteerism is rooted in free will and it’s driven by our desire to contribute genuinely, to contribute to the public good without expecting any monetary reward in return,” Tabuzo shared.
In his closing message, PNVSCA Executive Director Donald James Gawe emphasized the importance of inclusivity in volunteer work, noting that government support mechanisms are in place to empower more Filipinos to serve meaningfully.
By fostering a culture of volunteerism, collaboration, and civic engagement, DAP continues to strengthen its mandate of developing innovative, committed, and socially responsive public sector leaders — proving that meaningful national transformation begins with citizens willing to serve.