Binalonan, Pangasinan – April 10, 2025 — The University of Eastern Pangasinan, through its Office of Community Extension Services, successfully launched PROJECT S.H.E.L.P 2.0 (Sustainable Health, Education, Livelihood, and Peace) at Casantiaogan Elementary School in Sitio Binmonton, Sta. Catalina, Binalonan. With the theme “Sustainable Progress, Empowered Communities: Uniting for Health, Education, Livelihood, and Peace,” the initiative focused on giving back to the community and forging stronger grassroots partnerships.

Attended by the students of Casantiaogan Elementary School, the outreach was spearheaded by Dr. John Christopher V. Garces, Director for University Extension, alongside Mr. Aldren Ancheta, Coordinating Staff for University Extension. Representing UEP’s senior leadership were Dr. Evelyn A. Tomboc, University President; Dr. Gloria C. Nemedez, Vice?President for Academic Affairs; and Dr. Aldrin R. Tarangco, Vice?President for Administration, all of whom showed their wholehearted support for this community?centered endeavor.

Following the welcome remarks from the dignitaries, University Guidance Counselor Dr. Samson C. Nisperos, delivered an insightful discussion on the importance of community outreach. Dr. Nisperos emphasized that service to others is both a privilege and a moral duty for educational institutions—an opportunity to extend the values of compassion, civic responsibility, and real?world learning beyond the classroom.

The day’s activities continued with the College of Teacher Education leading the distribution of “tsinelas” (slippers) and basic school supplies to every pupil, ensuring each child had the essential tools for learning. Meanwhile, the College of Engineering conducted a comprehensive needs assessment for the school canteen, identifying necessary safety and hygiene upgrades to improve food preparation and service for students. Recognizing the importance of connectivity in modern education, the College of Information Technology installed a robust Wi?Fi mesh network throughout the school, granting reliable internet access to both teachers and learners.

Health and safety were further bolstered when the College of Midwifery and the College of Criminal Justice Education partnered to distribute emergency kits, complete with first?aid supplies, multivitamins for children and adults, and a spine board, to strengthen the barangay’s readiness for medical emergencies. Adding a celebratory touch, the College of Hospitality Management designed and installed stage decorations in preparation for the school’s upcoming graduation ceremonies, lending a festive and professional atmosphere to the campus grounds.

A highlight of PROJECT S.H.E.L.P was the launch of a livelihood program for a selected family in Sta. Catalina. Faculty and students from the Colleges of Accountancy, Business Education, and Hospitality Management visited the beneficiary family to engage in meaningful dialogue, tailoring support to their unique needs and laying the groundwork for sustainable income generation. Through PROJECT S.H.E.L.P, UEP continues to demonstrate how academic expertise, when paired with hands-on service, can catalyze meaningful change and empower communities for the long term.

Photos By

Ted Lestat Balanag

Aldren Ancheta