A Regional Seminar Workshop on Volunteer Service was held at the Social Center of Saint Louis College on June 4, 2010, with the theme, “Volunteerism as a Key Strategy towards Rural Development.” It was sponsored by the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) - Regional Office 1 and the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSA).

      During the seminar, the regional economic development thrusts were presented which need the synergetic collaboration of the public and private sectors geared towards making Region 1 the agri-business and tourism powerhouse in Northern Luzon. Discussed, too, were the salient provisions of RA 9418 The Volunteer Act of 2007 (An Act Institutionalizing a Strategy for Rural Development, Strengthening Volunteerism and for Other Purposes) and its implementing rules and guidelines. Other highlights were success stories on volunteerism as told by a national awardee (individual) and a regional awardee (group) in the recent Search for Outstanding Volunteers. The workshop consisted mainly of strategizing on the effective implementation of RA 9418 and strengthening volunteerism in the various units, agencies and institutions at the local level.

      Present were officials and representatives of NEDA RO 1, PVNSCA-Central, public and private HEIs, regional line agencies, religious, civic, and indigenous peoples’ organizations, as well as representatives from the Peace Corps and Japan International Cooperation Agency- Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers.

      Participants from Saint Louis College included Dr. Antonette N. Dag-o (VP-Administration), Mrs. Marife E. Rimando (Dean, SAO), Mrs. Grace A. Molina (Director, External Affairs), Mr. Wilfred Cabauatan (Dept Head, Social Sciences) and Mr. Daniel B. Paguia (Research Officer)