The Laguna University – Community Extension Services Unit (LU-CESU) successfully carried out the Community Gift Giving 2025 with the theme “Sharing Smiles, Strengthening Bonds: LU’s Gift of Hope 2025,” reaffirming the university’s unwavering commitment to community service, compassion, and inclusive social development.
The series of outreach activities was organized by LU-CESU in collaboration with the Laguna University Faculty and Staff Association (LUFSA), the Laguna University Central Student Council (LU-CSC), various Recognized Student Organizations (RSOs). This collective effort demonstrated the strong culture of volunteerism, shared responsibility, and school spirit among faculty members, staff, students, and university partners.
The Institutional Gift Giving was held on December 17, 2025, at Bubukal Elementary School, where members of the university community came together to distribute gift packs to selected beneficiaries. The program formally opened with welcome remarks from Ms. Lorevie K. Rivera, Principal of Bubukal Elementary School, and a message from Mr. Mark Joseph Salazar, President of the Laguna University Central Student Council, both expressing gratitude for the partnership and highlighting the importance of collaboration in uplifting the community. The activity was further enriched by performances from the Laguna University Performing Arts Club (LUPAC) and Laguna University Music and Band Society (LU-MABS), adding joy and excitement to the event, and by meaningful interactions with beneficiaries. The program concluded with closing remarks delivered by Dr. Marlon L. Atanacio, Vice President for Academic Affairs, who underscored the importance of sustained community engagement and commended the collective efforts of all partners and volunteers.
On December 18, 2025, LU-CESU continued its community outreach through simultaneous gift-giving activities in several partner communities. A gift-giving program was conducted at Raymer GK Village, Barangay Gatid, Santa Cruz, Laguna, in partnership with the College of Education, bringing joy and encouragement to families within the community. Another outreach activity took place at Barangay Kanluran Kabubuhayan, Nagcarlan, Laguna, in collaboration with the College of Computing Studies and the University Library, emphasizing the university’s commitment to education, access to resources, and community empowerment. The final activity for the day was held at Barangay Tibatib, Cavinti, Laguna, in partnership with the College of Business Administration and Accountancy and the College of Engineering, further strengthening ties with the local community through shared service and engagement.
Throughout all activities, Ms. Justine Faith O. Samson, OIC–Head of the Community Extension Services Unit, provided guidance and coordination to ensure the smooth implementation of the program. Across the different communities, a total of 500 gift packs were distributed to beneficiaries. Beyond the material assistance, the initiative served as a reminder that compassion, unity, and genuine concern can uplift lives and strengthen community relationships.
The Community Gift Giving 2025 stands as a testament to Laguna University’s mission of fostering socially responsible individuals and building sustainable partnerships with communities. LU-CESU extends its heartfelt appreciation to all partner colleges, offices, organizations, donors, and volunteers, including the Laguna University Performing Arts Club and the Laguna University Music and Band Society, whose participation and performances helped make the event truly memorable.
by: Justine Faith O. Samson
