Alpha Phi Omega Philippines, Incorporated, in collaboration with APO Romblon Marble Alumni Association and APO Iota Nu Chapter, took part in the groundbreaking ceremony for the APO Learning Center in Odiongan, Romblon. The ceremony marked the beginning of the construction of a three-story multi-purpose learning center in Brgy. Poctoy.
The center aims to promote youth development, psychosocial support programs, and provide lodging services for students in Odiongan and neighboring towns.
Atty. Norma Singson-De Leon, the National President of APO Philippines, led the groundbreaking ceremony and emphasized that the learning center will focus not only on education but also on the social and psychosocial well-being of students.
Atty. Singson-De Leon stated, “We are not only concerned with the education of students within the four corners of the room. We are very concerned with their social life and psychosocial health.”
The APO Romblon Marble Alumni Association and APO Iota Nu Chapter, responsible for implementing the APO Learning Center project, will receive training in guidance counseling and youth development, alongside their peer helpers.
The building will also align with the provisions of the Career Guidance and Counseling Act, or Republic Act No. 11206.
APO Regional Director for MiMaRoPa, PCMS Melvin Gabayno, who donated the lot for the learning center, emphasized Alpha Phi Omega's commitment to bringing social services directly to communities.
He stressed the importance of innovation and creating spaces to bring volunteer social welfare programs and services closer to beneficiaries.
APO ROMAA President Bobby Ferrancullo expressed his belief that in the years to come, future students from Romblon State University and the community will be grateful for the learning and lodging facilities provided by the APO Learning Center.
Ferrancullo affirmed the organization's commitment to creating a safe, secure, and supportive environment for their brothers and sisters, students, and volunteers, while delivering quality service under their four-fold program.
