
UDM C.A.R.E.S.: A Testament to Compassion and Sustainability
By: Leila R. Gano, PhD. EdD.
The Universidad de Manila’s UDM C.A.R.E.S. initiative—Crisis Aid, Relief, and Economic Security—has proven to be a cornerstone of the university’s commitment to student welfare. This program, highlighted by its soup kitchen and student pantry, addresses the nutritional needs of students facing financial hardships, ensuring they can focus on their education without the burden of hunger.
Attorney Christian Patrick Labajoy, the University Legal Counsel and Head of Student Discipline, expressed his satisfaction with the program’s outcomes. “UDM C.A.R.E.S. has strengthened the university’s role in supporting our most vulnerable students,” he shared. “By tackling hunger directly, we’ve seen significant improvements in class attendance and a reduction in health complaints at the university clinic. This initiative demonstrates how deeply the administration values student well-being.”
The program has garnered praise from university leadership for its alignment with UDM’s mission of delivering sustainable and responsive extension activities. “The administration is immensely proud of how this initiative reflects our values of compassion and integrity,” Attorney Labajoy emphasized. “It not only uplifts our students but also reinforces UDM’s position as a socially responsible institution within the City of Manila.”
Positive feedback stems from the program’s tangible results, including better health outcomes for students, enhanced engagement in academic and extracurricular activities, and an improved sense of belonging within the university community. The legal counsel noted the program’s efficient use of resources and partnerships as key factors in its success.
Attorney Labajoy concluded, “UDM C.A.R.E.S. is more than just a project; it is a testament to how universities can serve as pillars of hope and support for their communities. This initiative embodies our commitment to empowering students and fostering sustainable development.”
Through UDM C.A.R.E.S., the university continues to build a culture of care and accountability, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive.
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