29/07/2025
UE OPLAN DAMAYAN: A Warm Bowl of Comfort Amid the Rains
In response to the recent heavy rains and flooding brought about by habagat, the University of the East (UE), through its Office of Extension and Community Outreach (OECO), launched OPLAN DAMAYAN, a simple yet meaningful initiative to provide immediate assistance to the affected members of the UE community.
Held at 6:00 AM last July 29, 2025, a total of 300 servings of free arroz caldo were distributed -- 150 servings each at the UE Manila and UE Caloocan campuses. The distribution in UE Manila was held in front of the Basic Education Department (BED) along Gastambide Street, while the Caloocan initiative was conducted in front of the Office of Extension and Community Outreach (OECO).
This activity was spearheaded by Dr. Rogelio I. Espiritu, Director of OECO, and was approved by UE President Zosimo M. Battad—demonstrating the University’s steadfast commitment to community care and service. The team also included GS College Sec. Dr. Madeleine M. Co, Principal Gerardo V. Venturina, Dr. Michael Angelo S. Mercado, Ms. Annie A. Apostol, along with other volunteers from NSTP Basic Education (BED) teachers and staff. In UE Caloocan, the event was organized by OECO/NSTP Community Outreach Asst., Dr. Katherine C. Guevarra and Mr Michael C. Tallud. With them was the OIL Coordinator, Prof. Annabelle M. Espiritu, in collaboration with other volunteers from the NSTP- Caloocan.
The beneficiaries of this initiative included the Basic Education students, security and maintenance personnel, and other members of the UE community who were affected by the heavy rains. The warm servings of arroz caldo served not only as nourishment but also as a tangible expression of the University’s commitment to solidarity and community care during times of hardship.
Through UE OPLAN DAMAYAN, the University of the East reaffirms its dedication to social responsibility and the Filipino spirit of bayanihan – demonstrating that in moments of crisis, unity and compassion can provide hope and relief.