USM ESO strengthens ties with partners, launches “UGNAYAN NATIN”

The University of Southern Mindanao Extension Services Office (USM ESO) launched the “UGNAYAN NATIN” radio program via the DXVL radio station on March 30, 2021. “UGNAYAN NATIN” is a 1-hour forum-type radio program initiated by the unit dedicated to partner agencies for information dissemination. Hosted by Mr. Genghis Khan P. Manero and co-hosted by Ms. Janice M. Bangoy, it launched its first episode for the USM Gender and Development (USM GAD) Office and the Kabacan Bureau of Fire Protection in celebration of the International Women’s Month and Fire Prevention Month. 

“UGNAYAN NATIN” guest Dr. Lawrence Anthony U. Dollente shared the various activities conducted by USM GAD, such as “ZOOMBA,” a virtual Zumba activity for the health and wellness of the USM faculty and staff, among others. He also gave a clear view of the GAD history and USM GAD initiatives for implementation this year as an offshoot from the GAD strategic planning held earlier in March.

The last 30 minutes of the program were with guests coming from the Bureau of Fire Protection, namely F03 Anthony M. Dapon and F02 Myron David L. Balquin. Mr. Dapon explained that as declared by PAGASA, the temperature and humidity start to reach higher levels in March. March is one of the hottest months of the year, and it marks the beginning of the summer season in the Philippines. He said that based on the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) data, March is the month that has one of the most alarming fire incidents in the country, which is why it was called “Fire Prevention Month” or “Burn Prevention Month” under the proclamation Nos. 115-A and 360 in 1986.

 Feedbacks from listeners such as “…we are happy that USM, through the extension office, disseminates this kind of information through radio because we can access important information” inspired the USM Extension personnel to work and bring more of these kinds of services to the communities.  

USM, headed by President Dr. Francisco Gil N. Garcia, encourages the extension services to explore and engage in various platforms to overcome face-to-face restrictions brought about by COVID 19 pandemic. Information is now accepted as an essential factor in any society’s sustained development because it reduces uncertainty and enhances awareness of possible actions to take to solve problems.  UGNAYAN NATIN can be viewed online via Facebook Live and YouTube through USM RTV Channel. To date, “UGNAYAN NATIN” reached a total of 2,900 viewers.