The Institute of Social Work Student Council (ISWSC) successfully held its General Assembly on November 20, 2025, at the Soroptimist International of Alabang (SIA) Hall, gathering Bachelor of Science in Social Work students for an afternoon of inspiration, reflection, and unity.

The program began with a prayer led by Ms. Dinah Jacqueline Lim, followed by the singing of the Lupang Hinirang, Muntinlupa March, and PLMun Hymn. Asst. Prof. Sannie A. Jusay, Dean of the College of Teacher Education and ISW Program Chair, delivered the Opening Remarks, emphasizing that “Everything starts with the heart of service” and reminding students that “PUSO ang bumubuhay sa Social Work.” She also presented the MOA book signing, marking a milestone collaboration for the Institute of Social Work.

The assembly featured a lineup of inspiring guest speakers:

• Sec. Corazon Alma G. De Leon, Dean of the Institute of Social Work, shared lessons from her journey as a social worker, educator, and public servant, highlighting resilience, dedication, and the heart-centered nature of the profession.

• Mr. Vernon O. Onrubia, PSW, MATul, Co-Adviser of ISWSC, introduced the HEART framework: Healing, Empowering, Acceptance, Respect, Transparency, and Spirit-filled, encouraging students to nurture both themselves and the communities they serve.

• Asst. Prof. Alni Gavjaymin B. Casacop, Vice President for Student Life and Development, reminded students that “You are compassion in action—the bridge between people and hope,” emphasizing critical thinking, advocacy, and transformative action.

• Ms. Lily G. Jarata, Dean of the Office of Student Affairs and Director of the Center for Culture and the Arts, underscored the importance of discipline and faith as guiding principles for personal growth and professional effectiveness.

• Mr. Reggie Salonga, RSW, MSSW, LPT, EnP, President of the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Muntinlupa Chapter, encouraged students to look beyond surface challenges and address underlying social issues, emphasizing the interconnectedness of strengths and weaknesses within communities.

• Mr. Paul Kenneth Benevidez, RPm, RPsy, along with Dr. Carlo Tabios and Ms. Jenny Leonardo from the Muntinlupa Community-Based Mental Health Clinic, delivered a talk on “The Power of Self-Care: Mind, Body, and Soul,” highlighting the importance of boundaries, digital wellness, and holistic self-care for future social workers.

Students actively participated in interactive activities such as the “Empathy Chain” and Carol Clash icebreaker, fostering connection, openness, and engagement.

The Top 10 Outstanding BSSW Students for A.Y. 2024–2025 were recognized:

1. Kyle Teodore A. Elvinia

2. Sarah Faith C. Padilla / Mika Shainne O. Fausto

3. Mary Jhone Jamella A. Rustria

4. Fevie Crystal G. Marciano

5. Maribel C. Mutuc

6. Blessy Mei P. Mefania

7. Shaira Jean B. Rabino

8. Kathryn Ann G. Alaro / Johara Madel B. Teves

9. Zyrah Thea Kyl B. Tantoy

10. Dinah Jacqueline Lim

The event concluded with closing remarks from Ms. Britt B. Villapando, ISWSC Adviser, who expressed gratitude to all participants, speakers, and organizers for making the General Assembly a meaningful and inspiring milestone. The program was expertly hosted by Ms. Zyrah Thea Kyl Tantoy and Ms. Andrei Aldea.

With empowered minds and compassionate hearts, ISWSC continues to nurture future social workers—guided by purpose, strengthened by service, and united by heart.