SAN ILDEFONSO, Bulacan — The Bulacan Agricultural State College (BASC), through the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS), the Student Development and Services Unit (SDSU), and the University Student Council (USC), successfully conducted a two-day activity titled Leadership Training and Planning Workshop: Agile and Adaptive Leadership, Governance, and Service on July 16–17, 2026, at Shepherds Palace Garden and Resort in Candaba, Pampanga. The event brought together student leaders and organization officers to strengthen their leadership capabilities, enhance organizational governance, and reinforce their commitment to service.

Dr. Jennifer P. Adriano, Director of the Office of Student Affairs and Services, presented the objectives of the workshop and introduced the resource speakers. In her message, she reminded participants that leadership is not defined by position or title but by one’s actions and the example one sets for others.

Highlighting the importance of exemplary leadership, Dr. Cecilia S. Santiago, Vice President for Academic Affairs, reminded participants that student leaders serve as role models within the university community, encouraging them to lead with integrity and inspire others through their actions. BASC President Dr. Jameson H. Tan also encouraged the participants to continuously improve themselves as leaders, emphasizing that effective leadership requires a commitment to always “level up.”

The first learning session was facilitated by Dr. Herbert Anthony V. Roberto, Head of the Institutional Student Programs and Services Unit, who discussed the core pillars and essential qualities of modern successful leaders. He encouraged participants to maximize their potential, uphold their values, and cultivate character, integrity, and accountability as the foundation of effective leadership.

The second session was led by Dr. John Edward Y. Cruz, Director of the Planning and Development Office, who shared insights on agile and adaptive leadership, governance, and service. He emphasized the importance of resilience, innovation, and adaptability in responding to the evolving needs of organizations and communities.

In the third session, Ms. Sunshine Joy N. Benosa, Guidance Coordinator of the Student Welfare and Services Unit, highlighted the impact of student leaders on community service and the importance of developing innovative initiatives. She encouraged participants to create meaningful programs that foster positive change within the university and the communities they serve.

The final lecture was delivered by Dr. Amerigo B. Ramos Jr., Unit Head of the Gender and Development Training and Advocacy Unit, who discussed embracing the intersecting identities of LGBTQ+ student leaders to become more effective, culturally competent, and empathetic leaders. He underscored the importance of diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect in building a safe, welcoming, and supportive campus environment.

An open forum followed the lecture series, allowing participants to engage with the resource speakers, exchange ideas, and seek guidance on effective leadership practices and student governance.

The second day shifted from lectures to experiential learning through team-building activities and collaborative games facilitated by the University Student Council, organization officers, and facilitators. The activities were designed to strengthen communication, teamwork, trust, and problem-solving skills among the participants. They also attended a leadership session led by Mr. Vladimir C. Sempio, Head of the Student Development and Services Unit, before collaboratively crafting the Council of Organizations (COA) Activity Plan for Academic Year 2026–2027, promoting strategic planning and stronger collaboration among student organizations.

The workshop concluded with the awarding of winners in the team-building activities, the presentation of certificates to participants and facilitators, and the closing remarks of Dr. Adriano, who encouraged the student leaders to translate the knowledge, values, and skills they had gained into meaningful action as they continue serving the BASC community with integrity, accountability, and excellence.

Through the Leadership Training and Planning Workshop, BASC reaffirmed its commitment to developing competent, values-driven, and socially responsible student leaders who are prepared to become catalysts for positive change. By equipping students with leadership competencies, ethical values, and a strong sense of service, the University continues to uphold its mission of producing globally competitive graduates and its vision of becoming a premier institution for higher learning, innovation, and sustainable development.

#BASCtoBSAU #TatakBASC #SDG4QualityEducation #SDG5GenderEquality #SDG10ReducedInequalities #SDG16PeaceJusticeAndStrongInstitutions #SDG17PartnershipsForTheGoals #BASC #LeadingThroughExcellence #FutureReadyLeaders #StudentLeadership #BagongPilipinas

Photo credit: BSAU University Student Council (USC) and The Soil Tiller (TST)