PROJECTS

Sustainability Purpose

In today’s world, the growing demand for sustainable practices and laborious decision-making is of utmost importance. St. Paul University at San Miguel (SPUSM), a Christ-centered educational institution, expresses its commitment to promoting academic excellence, social responsibility, and sustainable development. It has embraced its duty to perform purposeful initiatives that support the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals .

Each goal pertains to certain critical issues that significantly affect one’s life. It includes poverty, hunger, inequality, climate change, and even concerns about health and the quality of education. These have become motivations for the institution to take part and provide a great contribution through sustaining initiatives toward a resilient future.

Through the implementation of various academic programs, community involvement, and sustainable practices, SPUSM cultivates a sense of communal accountability and empowers individuals to collaborate in maintaining the preservation of our environment and social well-being. This had demonstrated its steadfast commitment to sustainable practices, not solely as a response to external influences such as climate change but as an embodiment of its fundamental principles. It has become the conviction of the university that sustainability should serve as a vital element of its educational mission, developing a perspective that extends beyond the boundaries of the classroom and impacts behaviors and decisions across every aspect of life.

The purpose of this sustainability initiative is to offer an account of the institution's sustainable practices and inspire continuous improvement among people to analyze present practices, identify opportunities for growth and innovation, and establish new benchmarks for sustainable development. Moreover, SPUSM has effectively launched awareness campaigns focused on environmental preservation, health promotion, and disaster preparedness.

These initiatives have proven to be an excellent and effective way of conveying the institution's sustainability objectives, progress, and goals to all stakeholders, including students, parents, faculty, staff, and the general public. Employing these projects has allowed it to foster a shared vision and united efforts toward a common goal.

Ultimately, the school believed that embracing sustainability is an ongoing journey that includes community engagement and long-term commitment that an educational institution must foster for both the improvement of its students and the environment in which it operates. This includes a variety of interconnected issues such as environmental preservation, social equality, and economic viability. In accordance with this, its attention on sustainability promotion becomes centered on increasing the quality of life for all individuals, with a special emphasis on giving optimal benefits to communities, creating a future that is genuinely deserving of the earth and its inhabitants. Through these efforts, SPUSM has aimed to cultivate a sustainable culture that inspires positive change that extends far beyond the campus, leaving a lasting impact on the broader community that every person shares.

Sustainability Progress

Over the past two years, SPUSM has implemented new social responsibility initiatives, resulting in significant improvements. The institution's commitment to sustainable economic, environmental, and social development is evident through its exemplary corporate governance processes and adoption of sustainability as a fundamental principle in all aspects of its business operations. The institution prioritizes its impact on its stakeholders, allowing them to identify areas for improvement and opportunities for growth.

The Paulinian Core Values, specifically CHRIST-CENTEREDNESS, COMMISSION, COMMUNITY, CHARISM, and CHARITY have guided the institution's members addressing surrounding risks and in carrying out sustainable actions to help the people, community, and the environment it encompasses.

Christ-Centeredness

At the heart of any Catholic education institution is a Christ-centered approach to teaching and learning wherein the teachings of Jesus Christ and the values of the Catholic faith are integrated throughout all aspects of the institution. This encourage the Paulinian students to live a faith-filled life that is centered on serving God and others, and making a positive difference in the world. SPUSM shows its christ-centeredness through the following activities:

Class Recollections

Class recollections are held to offer the Paulinian students a "break" from their commitment in various schoolwork. It is a time for students to get together, think about their faith, and re-establish a connection with God. As a Christ-centered educational institution, SPUSM offers its students an integrated Catholic education to arouse their "spiritual awareness" inside them. In this way, the students are expected to have memories that will help them rediscover their Catholic faith and intimate relationship with God.

In March 2023, students from the tertiary department had their class recollections led by an officiating priest. Each course and grade level had its own schedule to be followed. The goal of a recollection is to deepen one's relationship with God and to build a stronger sense of community within the class. It includes students' participation in collective discussions, prayers, reflections, and other activities that can be meaningful and impactful experience for students, as it encourages them to reflect on their values and goals, to connect with their peers in a meaningful way, and refocus them on their Catholic faith and their personal relationship with God.

Mass Sponsorship

In order to come together in prayer, celebrate their religion, and strengthen their bonds with one another, SPUSM actively engages in sponsoring mass with their local parish church. This manifests the university's ongoing spiritual initiatives to promote its Catholic identity as a center of learning in the community. Additionally, the university's relationship with the nearby parish church is a crucial part of Catholic education which should be imparted to the students.

On March 26, 2023, St. Paul University at San Miguel had its sponsored mass that was held at St. Michael the Archangel Parish Church, which is located in San Miguel, the town where SPUSM belongs. The SPUSM sisters, students, and other faculty members came together to worship and participate in the liturgy. The students from certain courses also participated during the mass as lecturers and commentators. The university also had its offerings given to the parish church.

Commission

SPUSM molds its students to actively work like Christ — to have a deep sense of responsibility in serving this world to make it a better place to live in. This Paulinian core value is rooted in the Catholic teaching principles of love, compassion, and service, which enable the students to effectively initiate different activities that will do good for the people and society they encompass.

Clean-up Drives: These initiatives, conducted by tertiary students and other volunteers, aim to enhance and preserve the cleanliness of the surroundings. The students, with their cleaning tools, were able to clean the whole school’s premises and some areas in Biak na Bato, which is the adopted community of SPUSM. This simple activity helps the students understand the essence of maintaining the cleanliness of the surroundings as a Paulinian. This might be seen as a simple effort by the school, but it makes a huge contribution to raising awareness of the threats of litter in the environment and communities.
Tree Planting Initiatives: Climate change is a never-ending concern for all countries throughout the world, and it has already become a significant one that requires immediate attention. Trees are known for reducing carbon footprints and combating climate change. As a result, SPUSM students engaged in a variety of activities that may help mitigate the growing effects of climate change, such as planting trees.

Community

SPUSM is a responsible entity for the community it encompasses. They are committed to carrying out various activities that would help build a better community that promotes peace, justice, and the protection of the environment.

Dengue Awareness Programs: A single mosquito bite that carries the dengue virus has been known to kill multiple people. Everyone must be fully aware of its harmful consequences and how they will be prevented because it continues to be classified as an incurable disease. As the rainy season approaches, which is also known for the season of dengue crisis, SPUSM launched a program to hold dengue awareness campaigns in localities, particularly in Biak-na-Bato as the adoptive community, on May 19, 2023. A specialist in the subject matter was invited to properly discuss the dengue virus and how to prevent it with the people of the locality.
Disaster Preparedness Campaign: Substantial flooding occurred in a number of locations as a result of the unpredictable weather patterns brought on by climate change. This led SPUSM to launch a disaster preparedness campaign in a town that is prone to flooding. This campaign, which tries to arm the populace with the necessary knowledge to deal with not only flooding but other potential natural disasters in the area, is regarded as the institution's first effort at disaster preparedness.
PWDs inclusive learning: Regardless of a student's condition, SPUSM ensures that they are exercising their right to an education. Inclusive learning was provided to all PWD students who are all enrolled in SPUSM, including them in the general classroom setup.

Charism

SPUSM fosters each student’s talents and skills to put into practice, which will allow them to grow and improve. This also allows them to showcase these talents to others and becomes an inspiration for one’s own discovery.

Entrepreneurial minds: The students, specifically 4th-year students of BSBA, were able to cater to their entrepreneurial skills by building their own business stalls that offer varieties of products during the celebration of St. Paul’s Week last January. This activity allows the students to put into practice their newly acquired knowledge about entrepreneurship. It will also serve as a good foundation for them as they pursue their profession in business.
Literacy Month Celebration: Last November 2022, SPUSM had its celebration of Literacy Month, wherein the students were encouraged to join different competitions to showcase their skills and talents in certain disciplines, such as spelling, brochure-making, and conducting on-the-spot podcasts. These activities also enable the students to enhance their information literacy skills by sharing some information about certain relevant issues that everyone should be aware of.

Charity

As part of its commitment to the community, SPUSM is always open to charitable actions, especially for the underprivileged. The university focuses on encouraging the students to have that "charitable spirit" within them as Paulinians and always open their hands to help those who are in need.

Relief operations: The students were asked to voluntarily donate some goods that can be used by people to meet their basic needs, such as shampoo, bath soap, etc.
Giving Hygiene Kits: This is part of the dengue awareness campaign by the SPUSM for their adopted community in Biak na Bato. These hygiene kits were given to the local residents door-to-door to help to combat the dengue virus. The hygiene kits include mosquito repellant, alcohol, soap, etc.
Feeding programs: The issue of poverty, which led to some families being hungry, must be addressed urgently. Children from low-income families are disproportionately impacted by this problem since it can result in health problems like malnutrition. In line with this, SPUSM began planning feeding programs for families with limited resources living in underdeveloped neighborhoods.
Medical missions:

At SPUSM, diversity is integrated into the classrooms to provide students with the best education possible. This approach has led students to take the initiative in disseminating information about various issues affecting the people, communities, and environment surrounding them. The students have already run various awareness programs to encourage people to become more environmentally and socially conscious.

All of these programs are grounded in the institution's primary goal, which is to attain sustainability. As a corporation committed to social responsibility, SPUSM seeks to provide a sustainable way of life for all people today and in the future. In addition, the team wants to help fulfill the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations, which include eradicating world poverty, protecting the environment, and ensuring that everyone lives in peace and prosperity by the year 2030. Students incorporate these 17 SDG targets throughout each activity in order to adhere to the institution's ideals. The institution is committed to maintaining these programs and methods as a legacy.

St. Paul University at San Miguel had been actively adopting and enforcing practices to attain a sustainable future for all. This movement has begun to build a more prominent presence of awareness to the students on the essence of sustainable development. Along this journey, they are able to pinpoint the different domains that require sustainable actions to enhance the quality and diversity of life.

Sustainability Breakthrough

Foster Social Participation

School Activities Engagement - Leadership

St. Paul University at San Miguel trains students to actively participate in various school activities to develop and cater to their skills and talents, which enables them to assess the opportunities and identify areas for improvement that suit their needs. The university encourages students to cultivate a "spirit of leadership" and engage in organizing different activities and programs that are beneficial for all students. It helps the students improve their skills in conceptualizing different themes needed for each event the school needs to execute. It is also a good foundation for students to build good relationships with each other and enhance their interpersonal skills. In addition, the students become more knowledgeable about the different events and can share them with others. This initiative is included in the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which the institution always incorporates into all its actions.

S.Y 2021-2022

Business Management Association (BMA) - this project page, which will serve as an open platform to address the needs and concerns of the students, including announcements, activities, and events, will be more straightforward.
Education Society - this platform was created to foster transparency among fellow students and be updated and kept informed of events, activities, and projects that needed both their assistance and cooperation.
Virtual Acquaintance - At this event, students had the opportunity to meet one another, get to know their peers and upperclassmen, and cultivate a sense of belonging in our community in such a way that they would connect and develop relationships.
Peer Kumustahan - was conducted to address student concerns and questions about the remote setup and for new norm education. Since the pandemic also prevents us from engaging and creating distance with the Paulinian relationship through this event, Paulinian were able to reunite, build strong bonds and reunite as one.
BMA Halloween Photo Contest - This activity has been organized to encourage Paulinian students to participate and have a good time by entering the BMA Halloween Photo Contest. By doing so, they can also unwind, take a break from the stress of schoolwork, and gain more confidence in entering competitions.
Suggestion Box - This project of BMA in the previous year aimed to enhance transparency among students, and this initiative assures that they may hear each student's voice by preparing and putting out their concepts, plans, and activities, which the student council will implement.
TikTok Contest - TikTok has gained popularity among students, and some people utilize this app to create competitions that inspire young people in a lighthearted and creative way through challenging situations and foster a sense of community and shared purpose. Thus, SPUSM also uses it as a chance to motivate and provide a stage for Paulinian students to advocate for and persuade people of the value of sports in their lives. With the aid of student innovation, the competition might be utilized to promote accurate facts and counter false information.
E-Games - The tertiary department at St. Paul University has launched a competition for online games like Mobile Legends and Call of Duty that allows players to show their talents and skills to celebrate St.Paul’s Week and Sportfest in SPUSM. With the help of online games, this competition strives to develop and encourage sportsmanship and teamwork among Paulinian students.

S.Y. 2022 - 2023

Buwan ng Wika - SPUSM celebrates National Language Month to educate students and individuals about the importance of multilingualism in creating the Filipino nation with understanding and encouraging Filipinos, mainly native language owners, to participate in language activities
Zumba-kalikasan - This is one of SPUSM's initiatives designed to raise awareness of environmental issues by combining the dancing form of Zumba with the Filipino word Kalikasan, which means nature or environment. The objective of this program is to encourage students to protect the environment and positively impact the world around them.
United Nations - The purpose of this event is to remind every Paulinian about our duty and sense of belongingness with one another, regardless of our differences, and to help combat injustice and impunity around the world. SPUSM uses a variety of activities to involve not just the students but the entire community in the United Nations Day celebration.
Literacy Month - An event that aims to remind the public of the importance of literacy as a matter of dignity and an essential skill in our daily lives. It creates good opportunities for students to establish good habits that promote a love of books and exercise knowledge in spelling and grammar.
St. Paul’s Week - Celebrating St. Paul’s Week, SPUSM held a booth and funfair where anyone could visit to join and celebrate the said event. Also, this event aims to deepen and broaden people's understanding of the Catholic religion and commemorate St. Paul's life and legacy in various ways, such as through prayer and liturgy.
College Night - This is one of the most prestigious and eagerly anticipated occasions in all schools and universities, and this was a night full of blissful moments. It was meant for college students so that they may develop relationships with other colleagues, faculty members, staff, and their instructors at the same time to create new memories.
Sports Fest - An event of St. Paul University at San Miguel’s for February is Sports Fest 2023, with the theme of “ Reviving Paulinian Camaraderie and Sportsmanship.” This event took place to show the abilities and skills in various sports to all Paulinians while also nurturing camaraderie among their team as they joined different sports.

Advocates for Awareness

The college department of SPUSM students is actively involved in running a variety of initiatives that seek to spread awareness about pressing societal concerns. This group of students' project provides an excellent opportunity for other students and people to become socially conscious of many issues that may affect them personally or other people they know. To mobilize our thoughts and avoid misunderstandings, it is critical that we adequately educate ourselves on various subjects. Furthermore, raising knowledge reduces the chance of false information.

2021

BMA’s Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention - This activity was conducted by the students under the Business Management Association (BMA), which aims to raise awareness regarding one’s mental health and the essence of promoting suicide prevention among the students. This awareness campaign seeks to change everyone’s perceptions and break the stigma regarding our mental health, which is still considered taboo in today’s society. Posters and videos were posted on BMA’s official Facebook page that shows mental health awareness and other contact details of different national agencies that students may contact whenever they need help dealing with their struggles.
BMA’s Voters Registration Activity - Another part of BMA’s initiative to fulfill one of our duties as citizens - to register our vote. This activity aims to impart knowledge about our social responsibility as Paulinians, which is to register and be a responsible voters. It shares legitimate information that shows the right way to register our vote. This activity encourages every Paulinian, 18 years old and above, to exercise their right to vote.
BMA’s Right to Truth Day - To commemorate those people who devoted their lives in promoting and protecting human rights, this event was organized by the Business Management Association (BMA) that aims to remind every student to always seek for the truth, negate human rights violations and always fight for justice.
BMA & EducationSociety International Women’s Month Celebration - This event was both led by students from BMA and the EducationSociety as a celebration for women empowerment and their meaningful contributions in building a better society. This event aims to remind everyone that equal chance and opportunities should be given regardless of their gender.

Commitment for the Community

SPUSM is committed to the communities it encompasses. Their endeavor includes evaluating their influence on their stakeholders and coming up with workable solutions. In keeping with this, the students began planning events and initiatives to assist the community in resolving the various threats that surround them. They also make sure that these activities would benefit the residents of these places.

GGSR-Disaster preparedness - another event organized by the 3rd year BSBA students taking the course of Good Governance and Social Responsibility for the residents of Biak na bato as part of their initiative to be socially responsible and put into practice all their acquired learnings from the course. The purpose of this program is to raise awareness to the local residents of Biak na Bato about the importance of being prepared for any natural disaster that may occur. This program focuses on discussing the preventive measures, appropriate response protocols, and essential life-saving techniques that can be used by the residents in case of emergencies that may arise during flooding. In addition, this disaster preparedness program will be beneficial for the people residing near mountains which are more likely to experience landslides due to excessive flooding.
GGSR-Dengue awareness campaigns - this activity started to be implemented in the year of 2022 by the 3rd year BSBA students taking the course of Good Governance and Social Responsibility as part of their initiative to be socially responsible and putting into practice all their acquired learnings from the course. This year 2023, the students held their dengue awareness campaign in the adopted community of SPUSM - Biak na Bato. A program was carried out including a discussion about dengue awareness led by an expert in the field. The students also gave hygiene kits to the local residents door-to-door as part of preventive measures to combat dengue.
Feeding Programs - this activity also started to be implemented in the year of 2022 by a group of students from BSE Filipino 1 as part of their final activity in the Contemporary World subject that enables them to apply their learnings about Sustainable Development Goals and Global Citizenship. This year 2023, a feeding program was also conducted led by the 3rd year BSBA students as part of their application of learnings from their course Good Governance and Social Responsibility. This is to address the issue of hunger that causes malnutrition, especially for the children who don't have access to enough food and nutrition. This activity contributes to the achievement of one of the 17 sustainable development goals which is the Zero Hunger that aims to end hunger and malnutrition and achieve food security.

Care for the Environment

SPUSM ensures that environmental protection should always be connected to their objectives as a corporate socially responsible organization. SPUSM is always taking action, no matter how small or large the effort that may help achieve environmental sustainability. The institution takes initiative to address various environmental threats. To demonstrate the institution's involvement in promoting a sustainable environment, the students have already carried out a variety of initiatives.

· Bote mo, kawanggawa mo

· NSTP Clean Drive

· NSTP - Calamansi Tree Planting

· GGSR - Clean Drive

Student Engagement

Sparks & Pursuit. Considering that the world is a complicated and dynamic place nowadays, individuals face several difficulties, including inequalities, poverty, and the impact of climate change. Notwithstanding these issues, there are a lot of reasons to be optimistic about what lies ahead. What can the students do to assist and transform the world and its inhabitants as a whole?

Lessons taught in the four-sided room help students learn new information. Life experience, however, cannot be taught; it can only be verbally communicated. Through curiosity, enthusiasm, and interest, learners may gain experience. Initiatives for community service and voluntarism supported by the institution aim to seek, reach, and educate since learning from experience is the finest form of education. Participating in programs like volunteering has a greater positive influence on both the individual and the community. Volunteering helps students gain new skills, get to know themselves, and develop courage. It increases personal growth. Many nonprofit organizations could use the help of volunteers. Students can find organizations that align with their interests and values and get involved in various activities, like what SPUSM students initiate to empower the lives of those adapted communities, like the programs that commence in Biak na Bato: feeding programs, clean-up drives, dengue awareness, and risk preparedness—teaching the youth and communities. Moreover, students’ contributions profoundly impact society, addressing societal challenges and fostering positive change. Encouraging and supporting student volunteerism is essential for creating a future generation of compassionate and engaged citizens committed to building a better world for all.

Fire starts to ignite when you first experience helping someone lift their spirits. When you feel the greatness of putting smiles on others’ faces, a call for more will fuel your heart. No matter how you get involved, volunteering is a great way to make a difference in your community and improve your life. The world today is a complex and ever-changing place. There are many challenges that we face, but there are also many reasons to be hopeful. We have the opportunity to work together to create a better future for all. So, what are you waiting for? Start volunteering today! (D.Santos 2023)

Assessing Climate Risk

Urgency for Action. In the face of increasing climate change impacts, schools have a crucial role in assessing climate risk and promoting sustainable practices. By integrating climate-related activities into the curriculum and extracurricular programs, schools can effectively raise awareness, empower students, and foster a sense of collective responsibility by educating and encouraging them to take action, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future.

By starting an environmental program that cares about both people and the environment, SPUSM makes a significant step toward building a sustainable tomorrow. Schools can effectively help mitigate climate change and cultivate a culture of environmental responsibility by establishing green spaces on the school grounds, participating in college student-led tree planting programs, fostering waste reduction and recycling initiatives, supporting environmentally friendly modes of transportation, and establishing ecologically friendly environments. Schools can significantly improve the world by building a more sustainable and resilient future by equipping students and teachers with the knowledge and abilities to take sustainable action.

Climate change poses significant risks to our planet and its inhabitants. As greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, the Earth's climate system is changing profoundly. By collaborating, sharing knowledge, and taking decisive action, we can build a sustainable and resilient future for future generations. Each individual and organization is responsible for contributing to this collective effort and creating meaningful change in the face of climate risks.

Action on Planet

NSTP Tree Planting (Calamansi)

Tree planting goes beyond simply putting seeds or saplings in the ground. It holds immense significance and serves many purposes that are pivotal for our environment and the well-being of both present and future generations. As we delve into the purpose and power of tree planting, we will explore its various environmental benefits. Preserving biodiversity is crucial for our planet's long-term health and resilience.

The NSTP students plant Calamansi trees, starting on a transformative path of restoration of nature and reforestation. To appreciate the value of green places and the benefits of producing local, sustainable food sources. By planting trees, people are improving the environment's look, reducing the consequences of climate change, improving air quality, and preventing soil erosion. Trees serve as vital habitats, providing shelter, food, and breeding grounds for diverse species. By planting trees, we create corridors and patches of natural habitat, fostering biodiversity and enabling the interconnectedness of ecosystems. Trees support animal and plant life and contribute to preserving endangered species and ecological balance.

Each tree planted represents a step towards a greener and more sustainable future. By appreciating the impact of planting trees and working together to expand and restore forested areas.

Clean-Up Drive

Apart from tree planting, Paulinians enthusiastically participate in clean-up activities in the National Service Training Program (NSTP).

Students of St. Paul University at San Miguel were assigned to bring their cleaning materials, such as dustpans, broomsticks, gloves, and sacks, that can be used to put trash in for collection instead of a bin bag. This fruitful event aims to promote cleanliness and motivate others to join them in their admirable mission for a clean environment. As everyone joins forces to collect and separate garbage, this also offers an opportunity to learn and put their collaborative skills into practice. The clean-up drives are like imaginary journeys where individuals clean up bodily waste and change their mindset about caring for the environment. These drives bring about transformative changes, inspiring a sense of responsibility and stewardship in their hearts.

Students under the course program implement a project that is related to addressing the said issue and has something to do with the waste in school, such as plastic bottles. There are huge bins where you can dispose of and collect all plastic that are located around the campus, where students could dispose of their used plastic bottles. There are also various school bins where the students can store their trash before it is collected safely and securely to ensure that the recyclable waste is separated so it can be easily recycled. A simple deed can also make others rethink how they view waste.

"Encourage them to be more careful about what they use and how they manage it."

Proper waste management is essential to protecting the environment and promoting a sustainable future. By involving and educating the students in waste management initiatives, St. Paul University can help them become responsible citizens committed to positively impacting their communities and the world. SPUSM hopes to accomplish two things with this project: foster a sense of community and involve students in waste management.

By prioritizing waste management in schools, we create a cleaner and healthier environment and cultivate a sense of environmental stewardship among students. Teaching them to reduce, reuse, and recycle fosters lifelong sustainability and responsible consumption habits.

"Ultimately, school waste management empowers students to become agents of positive change, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future."