With the theme, “Your Voice Matters: Creating a Supportive Campus Community,” the Office of Student Development Services and Placement Services (SDSPS), led by Mr. Ronald B. Bulwayan, in collaboration with the Central Student Government (CSG), initiated the Campus Kamustahan at Kalinga State University -Rizal Campus on March 12, 2025.
This initiative aims to provide students with updates on various university services and programs while addressing relevant concerns and issues.
In his welcome remarks, SDSPS Director Mr. Ronald B. Bulwayan acknowledged the efforts of the CSG officers in bringing this initiative to fruition. Student Regent Hon. Christopher Cubit emphasized the importance of open dialogue, encouraging students to raise their concerns directly rather than resorting to social media complaints.
University President Dr. Joy Grace P. Doctor commended the SDSPS and CSG officers for spearheading this quarterly engagement. She reminded student leaders to uphold their responsibilities and underscored the significance of Campus Kamustahan as a platform for continuous monitoring of student concerns. “We will listen to you, take all concerns professionally, and provide viable solutions. This initiative aims to enhance our services and improve the university experience for all,” she added.
Updates on Key University Services
Mr. Hardy Aowat, Guidance Counselor of Dagupan Campus, provided updates on the Guidance and Counseling Services. Responding to student requests, he announced that the issuance of Good Moral Character certifications would now be facilitated at the Rizal Campus by its designated guidance counselor, Mrs. Freda Lim.
On medical and dental services, University Physician Dr. Maria Linda G. Gavino highlighted the increasing need for mental health support, emphasizing that students struggling with mental health concerns should be prioritized. Meanwhile, University Dentist Dr. Gretchen Cayangao recommended that students requiring dental services be accompanied by a nurse to the Main Campus for treatment, given the absence of a dental clinic at Rizal Campus. In response, President Doctor encouraged the submission of a proposal for acquiring dental equipment for Rizal Campus.
Scholarship Coordinator Mrs. Erlingine Sison clarified that the Tulong Dunong Program (TDP-TES) and the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) are processed through the Office of the Congressman and the Office of the Governor before being forwarded to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for screening. She emphasized that KSU serves only as a disseminator of these scholarship opportunities, with no authority over the selection process.
Dormitory policies were discussed by Men’s Dorm Manager Mr. Leimar C. Taganguin and Rizal Campus Dorm Matron Mrs. Nellie Oman. Mr. Taganguin announced that on-the-job training (OJT) students from Rizal Campus deployed to the Main Campus could stay in the dormitories. President Doctor reminded occupants to observe cleanliness and practice austerity measures within the dorms.
Enhancing Communication and Student Engagement
Ms. Mary June Wacas from the University Information Office encouraged Rizal Campus student leaders to utilize the university’s online radio airtime to stay informed on CSG programs and activities.
NSTP Coordinator Ms. Lerma Encartado provided updates on ongoing activities under the National Service Training Program (NSTP). Internship Coordinator Mrs. Nellie Apatas presented the requirements for student interns before deployment, including parental consent, waivers, and PhilHealth and Red Cross insurance.
Mr. Jhuman Tindo announced that five writers from The Organon would be representing KSU in an upcoming Luzon-wide press conference. Addressing concerns regarding the publication’s P200 subscription fee, he clarified that it was unanimously approved by students and is stipulated in The Organon’s Constitution and Bylaws. To ensure transparency, he assured that the financial report would be publicly posted on their bulletin board.
Open Forum and Next Leg of the Initiative
The Campus Kamustahan concluded with an open forum where student concerns were discussed and documented for further action. Finance Director, Mr. Danilo Buen and Faculty Regent Rene Putic addressed some of the sudents’ concerns during the open forum. This initiative will continue at KSU-Bulanao Campus on March 13, 2025, and at KSU-Dagupan Campus on March 17, 2025, ensuring that students across all campuses have the opportunity to voice their concerns and contribute to a more responsive university community.
