A total of 137 student government officers and student publication staffers from all four campuses of Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU) graduated from the 7th RIPPLES Training Camp.
The six-day camp, which ran from August 4 to August 9 at the CHMSU Talisay Campus, aimed to enhance the students’ leadership skills and prepare them to create positive change within their communities, a press release from the university said.
The training program was a collaborative effort between the university’s Office for Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) and the Center for Internationalization and External Relations (CIER).
The RIPPLES acronym stands for Responsive, Innovative, Proactive, Passionate, Leaders by Example, and Social Change.
During the camp, students participated in a variety of workshops and sessions, including a “Fireside Chat” with experts and community leaders. The sessions covered topics such as community development, environment, innovation, leadership, peace, and social action.
CIER Director Rhoderick Samonte, who served as the camp director, facilitated key workshops that helped students analyze campus issues and develop strategic, research-based action plans for the upcoming academic year. OSAS Director Maria Victoria Violanda provided critiques and mentored the student leaders during their planning sessions.
In a video message to the graduates, Rep. Javier Miguel “Javi” Benitez (Neg. Occ., 3rd District) encouraged them to use their newfound skills to empower others.
“It is good that you know the basics first, but after you master it, share it with others. Multiply your knowledge by sharing it with others, not by keeping it for yourself,” he said.
Talisay City Mayor Maria Rowena “Weng” Lopez-Lizares, the keynote speaker at the camp’s opening, praised the students’ potential.
“Leadership today is no longer about age or seniority; it is about action. It is about who steps up, who speaks out, and who shows up when it matters the most”, she said.
The training camp also coincided with the 58th ASEAN Anniversary on August 8. The student leaders and camp organizers joined a parade of nations, a flag ceremony, and a cultural showcase to mark the occasion.*