CCO NSTP CWTS Council

On August 11, 2025, the City College of Ormoc (CCO) was honored to stand among the witnesses of a milestone for the city—the launching of BIDA-CE at the Multipurpose Hall of the New Ormoc City Hall. BIDA-CE, which stands for Batang Idol sa Environmental Development Action at Circular Economy, embodies a call to rethink how communities value and manage resources. It champions environmental responsibility not as an abstract ideal, but as a daily practice that drives lasting behavioral change, anchored in the transformative principles of the circular economy. Together with city officials headed by the City Mayor, Hon. Lucy Marie Torres-Gomez, along with project partners and advocates, it was an affirmation of a collective commitment to building a greener future and advancing a green economy where ecological responsibility is no longer optional, but essential.

Joining Ms. Donna Mae Histo, NSTP Coordinator, and Mr. John Paul Matuguina were officers of KATALISTO, the student-led CCO NSTP-CWTS organization—current President, Mr. James Anthony Sabino, and Treasurer, Ms. Hon Ashley Pelayo—alongside former officers, Ms. Shelly May Marapoc, Ms. Althea Salili, and Ms. Ezza Maria Tonog, exemplifying the continuity of student commitment to environmental causes and bridging past and present leadership in pursuit of shared sustainability goals.

The City College of Ormoc was also recognized during the event for its contribution to the BIDA-CE initiative, having collected over 4,000 clean, segregated, and dried plastic bottles. This remarkable effort earned incentives—six power banks and two tablets—which were awarded to students who actively participated in the project's launch. This milestone underscored the commitment to transforming awareness into action—showing that when purpose is matched with participation, even small contributions can lead to significant change in the community and beyond.

The 'KATALISTO Orientation and Election of Officers' took place on August 6, 2025, at Room 2 of the Old Liga Building, bringing together the freshmen NSTP-CWTS students of Batch 2025-2026 for their first official engagement with the organization. Spearheaded by the outgoing officers, the activity aimed to introduce the new members to KATALISTO's guiding principles while preparing them for the leadership transition that was bound to unfold.

The orientation covered 'Defining Our Purpose: Vision and Mission,' 'What We Stand For: Core Values and Tagline,' and the 'NSTP-CWTS Journey of Batch 2024-2025.' Each segment offered not merely information but context—helping the freshmen understand how these aspects shape the culture and direction of the group. As a prelude to the elections, an icebreaker challenged participants to guess KATALISTO's positions based on their described responsibilities, sparking both laughter and a clearer picture of the roles in store.

The elections that followed resulted in a new set of officers entrusted with steering Batch 2025-2026 through the year's activities. Their leadership will support projects, strengthen bonds, and ensure that the vision and values of KATALISTO remain active and relevant in the months to come.

And as the results take shape, anticipation builds for the leaders who will soon help shape KATALISTO's next chapter. Here is to wishing them the insight to see what must be done, the resolve to see it through, and the heart to make it matter. 🌟

Photos by Althea Salili | Public Relations Officer

📢 Calling all NSTP-CWTS Students of Batch 2025-2026!

Are you ready to take the first step in becoming a catalyst for change?

Join us for the KATALISTO Orientation and Election of Officers, where we will welcome you into our community of purpose-driven student leaders and changemakers. This is your chance to learn what KATALISTO stands for and how you can take part—whether through leadership or active involvement.

🗓️ Date: August 6, 2025 (Wednesday)
🕐 Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 Venue: Room 2, Old Liga Building
🎯 Who: All NSTP-CWTS Students of Batch 2025-2026

Let us come together to build a year of service, sustainability, and meaningful action.

Be informed. Be involved. Be KATALISTO.

See you there, future leaders! 💚

The City College of Ormoc (CCO) and Eastern Visayas State University-Ormoc City Campus (EVSU-OCC) officially formalized their affiliation for the Academic Year 2024–2025 ROTC program through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) held last July 22, 2025, at both EVSU Ormoc Campus and Tacloban.

This event marked the establishment of a time-bound partnership between the two institutions, allowing CCO students to undergo Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) instruction under the recognized framework and supervision of EVSU-OCC's ROTC unit exclusively for the Academic Year 2024–2025.

The collaboration reflected both schools' commitment to fostering leadership, discipline, and civic responsibility among students in developing not only capable professionals but also socially responsible citizens.

The MOA signing was witnessed by key officials from both institutions—CCO and EVSU—whose collective efforts brought this limited-term partnership to fruition.

In a gathering filled with reflection and resolve, the KATALISTO of the NSTP-CWTS Council convened at Lecture Room 22 on July 16, 2025—not only to reconnect after a year of shared service but also to channel their experiences into charting a course that would soon welcome their successors. What began as a "kamustahan" evolved into a thoughtful space of collective insights, where stories of the past academic year blended with the anticipation of what lies ahead. The assembly served as a deliberate stride toward the future, as preparations were laid to ensure a seamless transition for this school year's freshmen.

The torch is yours to carry next, as the spark lives on in new hands. Welcome soon to the Council, Batch 2025-2026! ✨

Photos by Althea Salili | Public Relations Officer

In Memoriam: Adriane Montecillo

It is with profound sorrow that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Adriane Montecillo, a first-year student at the City College of Ormoc and the BSOA Representative of the NSTP-CWTS Council.

Adriane was found lifeless on May 28, 2025, at Apeke Beach Resort in Brgy. Ipil, Ormoc City. His sudden passing has left a deep void in the hearts of those who knew and worked with him.

Within the NSTP-CWTS Council, Adriane went far beyond the responsibilities of a representative. His unwavering commitment to the council's initiatives brought clarity and success to every endeavor we undertook. With Adriane, tasks became lighter, outcomes brighter, and each event a reflection of his leadership and dependable presence.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Adriane's family, friends, and loved ones during this time of unimaginable grief.

His wake is currently being held at Bernales Memorial Chapels.

| AMITY in Action, Let the Spirit of Service Flow |

True to this guiding principle of the CCO NSTP Program, the students of BPA 1201 brought their knowledge and values beyond the classroom and into the community, completing their NSTP-CWTS II engagement with a meaningful endeavor—entitled, Upcycle and Bloom: Integrating Circular Economy Towards Action—held last May 18, 2025, at Brgy. East, Ormoc City.

The undertaking began with a clean-up drive within the vicinity of the barangay, where the students carried out litter removal from pathways and roadside corners. Subsequently, the collected waste was meticulously segregated into recyclables, biodegradables, and residuals—promoting mindful disposal practices and responsible waste management.

To complement the activity, the BPA CWTS students installed educational tarpaulins in the aforementioned barangay, illustrating the 10Rs of the Circular Economy: Refuse, Rethink, Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Refurbish, Remanufacture, Repurpose, Recycle, and Recover. This expanded framework encourages a shift in mindset—from linear consumption to circular thinking—stressing the need to minimize waste by promoting sustainable consumption and production. By sharing these principles with the community, the students aimed to spark awareness and foster long-term behavioral change. The tarpaulins serve not only as visual guides but also as enduring tools to inform and inspire residents to engage in more sustainable practices in their everyday lives.

The BPA 1201 once again extends their heartfelt gratitude to Brgy. East for their resolute partnership and active involvement, whose commitment exemplifies the power of community collaboration in driving sustainable and impactful development initiatives. Likewise to Mrs. Ma. Lorina Parrilla, NSTP-CWTS Head and Instructor, for her steadfast support and guidance throughout the process; and to the NSTP Office, led by the NSTP Coordinator, Ms. Donna Mae Histo, for the vital role in making this engagement possible.

In the face of escalating environmental crises, the imperative to nurture a deep-rooted sense of responsibility through education has never been greater. Instilling the understanding that even the smallest, mindful actions can ripple outward to create meaningful change empowers individuals to become thoughtful caretakers of both their communities and the planet. These formative experiences lay the groundwork for enduring values, inspiring a generation to approach the future with heightened consciousness and dedication to preserving the world we share.

Branching Forward: Strengthening Roots Through Consistent Care

On May 14, 2025, the rotational schedule for the Dita tree nurturing and maintenance continued, with BSSW 1201 and BSSW 1202 actively taking part in the ongoing environmental initiative under The Giving T.R.E.E.—Teaching Responsibility, Embracing Ecology at Brgy. San Pablo, Ormoc City. As with the previous cycles, both sections diligently fulfilled their assigned schedules to guarantee the vitality and thriving growth of the Dita trees. This firm dedication strengthens the long-term sustainability of the initiative, ensuring that the efforts from earlier phases of the endeavor serve as a solid foundation for ecological stewardship and preservation.

| AMITY in Action, Let the Spirit of Service Flow |

True to this guiding principle of the CCO NSTP Program, the students of BSBA-MM 1202 brought their knowledge and values beyond the classroom and into the community, completing their NSTP-CWTS II engagement with a meaningful endeavor—entitled, From Waste to Worth: Teaching Community on Upcyling Trash—held last May 14, 2025, at Brgy. North, Ormoc City.

The community engagement commenced with a clean-up drive undertaken by the students, marking the start of the initiative with purposeful intent. Building on this foundation, an insightful educational session on upcycling was facilitated afterward by the BSBA-MM CWTS students, introducing the children to the concept of transforming discarded materials into valuable, functional items. The session aimed to deepen the children's understanding of sustainability by connecting environmental responsibility to hands-on, creative approaches. An interactive question-and-answer segment followed the discussion, encouraging active engagement, with small prizes given as tokens of participation.

To reinforce the lessons introduced, the highlight of the event was a hands-on upcycling activity in which the children crafted their own flower pots using repurposed plastic bottles. Each participant was encouraged to exercise creative freedom and later shared the inspiration behind their unique designs, fostering a meaningful connection between artistic expression and environmental awareness. To facilitate effective guidance and maximize learning, the children were divided into four groups, each supported by student facilitators who provided mentorship and assistance throughout the undertaking. This well-structured approach not only enhanced collaboration but also fortified the values of creative responsibility and environmental stewardship, empowering the children to perceive sustainability as an integral and valuable aspect in addressing today's widespread ecological challenges.

The BSBA-MM 1202 once again extends their heartfelt gratitude to Brgy. North for their resolute involvement and partnership throughout the endeavor, exemplifying the profound influence that dedicated community collaboration holds in shaping resilient, sustainable futures. Likewise to Dr. Rosenda Pialago, Vice President for Administrative and Financial Services, for graciously gracing the program with her presence; to Mrs. Ma. Lorina Parrilla, NSTP-CWTS Head and Instructor, for her steadfast support and guidance throughout the process; and to the NSTP Office, led by the NSTP Coordinator, Ms. Donna Mae Histo, for the vital role in making this engagement possible.

Truly, it is in the convergence of diverse hands, minds, and hearts—bound by a shared vision and collective resolve—that the foundation for enduring transformation is laid, revealing that sustainability is not merely an objective to be achieved but a continuous, communal journey—one that seeks to balance human advancement with the ecological well-being of the planet, and to inspire action that resonates far beyond the present moment.

| AMITY in Action, Let the Spirit of Service Flow |

True to this guiding principle of the CCO NSTP Program, the students of BSBA-MM 1201 brought their knowledge and values beyond the classroom and into the community, completing their NSTP-CWTS II engagement with a meaningful endeavor—entitled, Waste to Vase: Circular Economy in Action—held last May 7, 2025, at Brgy. Punta, Ormoc City.

The program specifically took place at the Day Care Center, where the BSBA-MM CWTS students conducted an insightful session introducing the young participants to foundational concepts in waste management, sustainability, and creative recycling. The opening discussion went beyond information sharing and aimed to inspire and engage, establishing a strong foundation for an immersive experience that connected theoretical understanding with practical application.

Under gentle guidance and encouragement, the children embarked on a creative journey, transforming discarded plastic bottles into decorative vases. This activity was both educational and expressive, illustrating how creative recycling can nurture environmental awareness and empower even the youngest members of the community. Upon completing their outputs, the children proudly presented their creations, thoughtfully sharing the inspirations and stories behind their designs. A discerning panel of student facilitators then evaluated the works, selecting three outstanding pieces that distinguished themselves through innovation and embodiment of circular economy principles. These young individuals received special recognition, underscoring the event's commitment to celebrating ingenuity as a driving force for sustainability.

The program culminated in a reflective dialogue aimed at deepening the children's understanding of environmental responsibility. This conversation encouraged the participants to internalize the values introduced throughout the day, reflecting on how sustainable habits can naturally become part of their everyday routines and shared with their families and communities.

The BSBA-MM 1201 once again extends their heartfelt gratitude to Brgy. Punta and the Ormoc City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (ORCHAM) for their wholehearted cooperation, whose contributions were indispensable to the success of this initiative, embodying the power of genuine partnership and collective dedication in advancing environmental consciousness and community empowerment. Likewise to Mrs. Ma. Lorina Parrilla, NSTP-CWTS Head and Instructor, for her steadfast support and guidance throughout the process; and to the NSTP Office, led by the NSTP Coordinator, Ms. Donna Mae Histo, for the vital role in making this engagement possible.

In the face of today's mounting ecological challenges, the significance of teaching children about environmental responsibility becomes ever more profound. Early awareness—such as learning that even small, thoughtful acts can contribute to positive change—not only shapes how they understand the world, but also how they choose to care for it. These early experiences plant the seeds of enduring values, offering a quiet hope that the next generation will grow with deeper mindfulness, creativity, and care for the planet we all call home.

Happy Birthday to our ever-reliable and warmhearted BSSW Representative—Ms. Windy Ruiz! ✨

Your approachable nature and genuine eagerness to help inspire confidence and goodwill in all you encounter. You offer more than a helping hand—you bring thoughtful clarity, stepping in with purposeful intention and a compassionate heart at crucial times.

With steady resolve, you play a pivotal role in shaping each task into a vital contribution to our shared journey of progress. As you step into a new year, may your passion and dedication grow stronger, lighting the way for many more successes. Cheers to your kindness, courage, and all the happiness that awaits! 🌟

Branching Forward: Strengthening Roots Through Consistent Care

On May 7, 2025, the rotational schedule for the Dita tree nurturing and maintenance continued, with BPA 1201 and BSOA 1201 actively taking part in the ongoing environmental initiative under The Giving T.R.E.E.—Teaching Responsibility, Embracing Ecology at Brgy. San Pablo, Ormoc City. As with the previous cycles, both sections diligently fulfilled their assigned schedules to guarantee the vitality and thriving growth of the Dita trees. This firm dedication strengthens the long-term sustainability of the initiative, ensuring that the efforts from earlier phases of the endeavor serve as a solid foundation for ecological stewardship and preservation.

Photos by Althea Salili | Public Relations Officer