DevCom, ComDev orgs donate school supplies to IP students

Students of Luyungan Indigenous People High School received notebooks, ballpens, clothing and snacks from two Bukidnon State University (BukSU) student organizations during an outreach program on October 28, 2026.

The BuklodKwaderno initiative was organized by the university’s Chamber of Young Development Communicators (CYDC) and the Community Development Students Society (CDSS), which are affiliated with the Development Communication and Community Development programs, respectively.

The program also featured interactive entertainment segments and a traditional dance performed by the high school students. These activities provided opportunities for cultural exchange between the school community and university representatives.

“We were truly happy. It was not just about what was given to us. What made us happiest was knowing that someone cared,” said Mary Ann B. Cunanan, head teacher of Luyungan Indigenous People High School, which is located in Barangay Bangcud, Malaybalay City.

The organizers conducted the program proceedings in the local Binukid language to accommodate the linguistic and cultural context of the school community.

The use of the local language also demonstrated its application in community outreach and development communication, particularly in activities involving Indigenous communities.

“As a Community Development student, my experience in the Buklod Kwaderno Outreach Program allowed me to apply the principles of participatory development and sustainability. By creating notebooks from recycled and locally available materials, we promoted environmental awareness and resourcefulness while supporting education. During the outreach, I practiced development communication through meaningful and culturally sensitive interactions with our Indigenous brothers and sisters. More than providing school supplies, the activity highlighted the value of environmental stewardship and community collaboration. This experience reinforced my belief that effective community development is achieved by creating solutions with the community, fostering empowerment, unity, and sustainable change,” said Maria Bhebs Jalagat, CDSS President. (Joshua S. Mabelin, 4th year Dev Com student)