𝐅𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄 | 𝗨𝗠–𝗖𝗔𝗘 𝗔𝗹𝘂𝗺𝘀 𝗘𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗻𝘀

Last December 22, 2025, the spirit of giving shone brightly in Brgy. Tibpuan, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, as a heartwarming year-end evaluation and annual gathering for senior citizens was made even more meaningful through the generosity of the University of Mindanao–College of Accounting Education (UM–CAE) alumni. More than just a year-end activity, the gathering became a celebration of compassion and community. Through voluntary cash donations from UM–CAE alumni sponsors, the program was filled with excitement as senior citizens enjoyed raffle prizes and moments of shared joy. Beyond the festivities, however, the true impact was felt in the essential assistance extended to more than 200 senior citizens of the barangay. Each beneficiary received much-needed provisions, including rice, Noche Buena packages, coffee, sugar, eggs, canned goods, and assorted grocery items—simple yet invaluable support, especially during the holiday season. In line with UM–CAE’s commitment to transparency and responsible stewardship of resources, the total cash collections amounted to ₱27,700.00. These funds were fully documented, properly accounted for, and entirely allocated as donations for the senior citizens of Brgy. Tibpuan. The collections were used to purchase essential provisions such as rice, eggs, canned goods, Noche Buena packages, and assorted grocery items including coffee, sugar, and milk, as well as cash prizes. All items and monetary assistance were deliberately prepared and distributed to the senior beneficiaries as part of the outreach, ensuring that every contribution supported their daily needs and holiday celebration. Reflecting on the purpose of the outreach and the importance of openness in managing donations, Mr. Jade D. Solaña, CPA, MBA, Head of the Bachelor of Science in Accountancy program, emphasized that accountability to donors remained a priority throughout the activity. He underscored that all collected funds were properly reported and transparently disclosed to those who voluntarily contributed: “Senior citizens are among the most neglected members of society, yet many of them continue to work tirelessly just to ensure that their families have food on the table. In the provinces, their quiet sacrifices often go unnoticed, and during the Christmas season—when warmth and generosity should be felt most—they often receive the least support. Giving back to senior citizens this Christmas is a beautiful reminder that gratitude knows no age. By sharing time, care, and kindness, we honor their years of sacrifice and allow them to feel seen, valued, and loved during a season meant for hope and compassion. This initiative was purely voluntary, and I made sure that all donations were properly accounted for and transparently reported to those who generously gave from the beginning.” The smiles, gratitude, and quiet joy witnessed during the distribution reflected how even modest acts of kindness can create a profound impact. For many of the senior citizens, the support they received went beyond material assistance—it served as a heartfelt reminder that they are remembered, respected, and valued. The University of Mindanao–College of Accounting Education extends its deepest gratitude to the UM–CAE alumni sponsors whose generosity and trust made this initiative possible. Your compassion has truly brightened the season and touched the lives of senior citizens in a lasting and meaningful way. This meaningful outreach initiative highlights the UM–CAE alumni’s strong commitment to social responsibility and inclusive development, supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being). By extending care, essential resources, and compassion to senior citizens in Brgy. Tibpuan, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, the UM–CAE alumni demonstrated how collective generosity—guided by transparency, accountability, and genuine concern—can uplift communities and affirm human dignity beyond the walls of the university. ✍ Candice Mae R. Garcia 💻 Hi-c Tipudan Photo Courtesy📷: College of Accounting Education