Dr. Shalimar L. Navalta, Director for Student Affairs Services, and SAS Heads Prof. Jo Ann P. Rulla, Prof. Dodilyn Bermudez, Prof. Joel C. Agullo, and Prof. Meljo Z. Apilado participated in the Philippine Association of Practitioners of Student Affairs and Services (PAPSAS), Inc.29th National Conference which was held at Costa Palawan Resort, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan on April 10 to 12, 2025. 

The conference pooled together student affairs professionals from across the country to discuss ways to strengthen student support systems in higher education.

With the theme Weaving an Integrated SAS Approach toward a Healthy Learning Environment, the three-day conference included plenary talks, workshops, business meetings, and mentoring sessions, aimed at enhancing competencies in student affairs and services (SAS) and promoting holistic student development.

Recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), PAPSAS is an official member of the CHED Technical Working Group for Student Affairs and Services. It plays a vital role in advancing professional development for SAS practitioners in the Philippines. 

The conference opened on April 10 with ceremonies led by PAPSAS officers, including Dr. Renelyn B. Salcedo, PAPSAS President, and Dr. Edna Gladys T. Calingacion, Chairperson of the conference and PAPSAS Vice President for Private Universities and Colleges. A keynote address was delivered by Dr. Lemuel O. Belarmino, Business Manager of PAPSAS.

Day 2 focused on wellness, competencies, and mindfulness, featuring plenary talks from Dr. Zenaida D. Azura and Dr. Irene G. Bustos, followed by hands-on workshops. Business and election proceedings also took place, including reports from the president and treasurer, online board elections, and the announcement of newly elected officers during dinner.

The final day included mentoring sessions, the approval of the updated Constitution and By-Laws presented by Prof. Agustina D. Matias, and closing remarks from Dr. Baby Boy Benjamin D. Nebres III, Vice President for State Universities and Colleges. The event concluded with the distribution of certificates.

DMMMSU participants left the conference reinforced with the importance of updating their skills and strategies to create inclusive and supportive learning environments for students. (By Ayu)