By Bing M. Arias
Sta. Rosa City, Laguna — In the early morning of July 30, 2026, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Sta. Rosa Campus came alive with the spirit of volunteerism as it conducted its annual Brigada Eskwela, bringing together government agencies, civic organizations, community leaders, and volunteers in preparation for the opening of a new academic year.
Brigada Eskwela is the Department of Education’s annual volunteer initiative that embodies the Filipino tradition of bayanihan, a collective effort where communities unite to prepare schools as safe, clean, and welcoming environments for learning. Although traditionally associated with basic education, the same spirit of community service has been embraced by educational institutions such as PUP, where stakeholders work hand in hand to create a campus that fosters learning, pride, and shared responsibility.
The event drew an impressive gathering of volunteers and partners, including personnel from the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Philippine National Police, Sta. Rosa Unit, various civic organizations, and community volunteers. Among those proudly participating were the Rotary Club of Sta. Rosa Centro and the Rotaract Club of Sta. Rosa Centro, reaffirming their commitment to educational development and community service.
As its contribution to this meaningful undertaking, the Rotary Club of Sta. Rosa Centro pledged to donate ornamental plants to beautify the sides of the campus quadrangle where the flagpole stands. More than enhancing the campus landscape, the project represents a sustainable and lasting investment. The plants require minimal maintenance, can be easily cared for by students through regular watering and occasional trimming, and will continue to provide a greener, more inviting environment for years to come, creating a lasting impact long after Brigada Eskwela has concluded.
Representing the Rotary Club of Sta. Rosa Centro were Service Impact President Bing M. Arias, Past President Renei Ng, Past President Liza Pineda, Past President Larry Gonzales, and Rotarian Joy Gonzales. Also bringing smiles to the gathering were Howen and Howli, the young sons of Past President Renei Ng, whose cheerful presence reminded everyone that the spirit of volunteerism can inspire even the youngest members of the community.
The Rotary Club extends its heartfelt gratitude to President Nominee and School Director Leny Salmingo for the warm invitation to participate in this meaningful initiative and for fostering strong partnerships among organizations dedicated to serving the community through education.
Activities like Brigada Eskwela remind us that when people work together toward a common purpose, every task becomes lighter, every challenge becomes more manageable, and every accomplishment becomes more meaningful. Beyond preparing classrooms and beautifying school grounds, these shared experiences strengthen friendships, build new relationships, and cultivate a deeper sense of unity and social responsibility.
Indeed, this collaborative effort reflects Rotary’s enduring motto, “Service Above Self.” By combining our time, talents, and resources, we do more than improve a school campus, we help nurture a culture of volunteerism, inspire future generations, and create a meaningful and lasting impact on the communities we are privileged to serve.
Rotary Club of Sta. Rosa Centro 