Angelica S. Alamar
Research Clerk
Itogon, Benguet — February 24, 2026
The Social Welfare and Development Learning Network (SWDL-NET) formally opened its 2026 engagements through the successful conduct of its 1st Quarter Learning Conversation at the scenic Mt. Camisong Forest Park and Event Center in Barangay Loacan, Itogon, Benguet. The gathering convened representatives from government agencies, civic organizations, and the academe in a shared space for reflection, knowledge exchange, and strategic planning.
Representing the academic sector was Dr. Michael Tomas Sebullen, Director for Research of Baguio Central University (BCU), together with Ms. Judith R. Adina, University Guidance Counselor Head. Their participation signified more than institutional presence—it reflected a deliberate effort to strengthen research-driven collaboration between higher education institutions and social development partners.
Throughout the sessions, Dr. Sebullen actively engaged in benchmarking discussions, particularly during the knowledge-sharing segments on Zero Waste for a Sustainable Future and the Rotary/Rotaract Club’s Seven Areas of Focus. These conversations provided an opportunity to examine how community-based initiatives of government and civic organizations may be systematically documented, evaluated, and enhanced through academic research frameworks. The dialogue opened promising avenues for potential partnerships between BCU, SWDL-NET, and organizations such as the Rotaract Club of Baguio Angels, especially in the areas of community needs assessment, student immersion, service-learning integration, and program impact evaluation.
The presentation of the SWDL-NET Operational Plan 2026 further allowed Dr. Sebullen to explore alignment between the agency’s development priorities and the university’s research and extension agenda. As Director for Research, he emphasized the importance of transdisciplinary collaboration, underscoring that sustainable development efforts gain greater rigor and sustainability when supported by evidence-based inquiry and institutional partnership.
Ms. Adina’s participation complemented this engagement by highlighting the role of guidance and psychosocial support systems in community development initiatives, reinforcing the holistic contribution of the academe to social welfare programs.
The event, led by SWDL-NET Chairperson Dr. Brenda Villanueva and supported by Sir Tolitz B. Villanueva, the Rotaract Club of Baguio Angels, and Team V, successfully blended wellness activities with meaningful dialogue. The Mt. Camisong walking tour and interactive learning sessions fostered both camaraderie and strategic reflection, making the kickoff gathering both productive and inspiring.
As SWDL-NET embarks on its 2026 initiatives, the active involvement of BCU’s Director for Research signals a strengthened commitment to institutional benchmarking, collaborative research, and sustained partnerships with agencies and civic organizations. The Learning Conversation not only marked a successful start to the year but also laid the groundwork for deeper academe–agency convergence in advancing community-centered development.
