23/09/2026
📖🌱 TURNING PAGES, CHANGING FUTURES: STORIES OF SERVICE, RESILIENCE, AND DISASTER RESPONSE
On September 18, 2026, Mr. Diapar Arnold N. Banding, Focal Point Person and Training Coordinator for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) of the MSU-IIT Center for Resiliency (MCR), served as one of the resource speakers during the Interactive Learning Session for the extension project “Storytelling for Sustainability: Turning Pages, Changing Futures” held at Acelo C. Badelles Sr. Memorial High School, Tipanoy, Iligan City.
The project was led by Asst. Prof. Ryan Jimenez, MA ELS, Extension Project Team Leader of Department of English of the College of Arts and Social Sciences, providing a meaningful platform for students to learn through storytelling, real-life experiences, and discussions on sustainability, service, disaster preparedness, and community resilience.
🎙️ SHARING STORIES OF SERVICE AND DISASTER RESPONSE
During the interactive session, Mr. Banding shared his personal experiences in disaster response, highlighting the challenges, lessons, and experiences that shaped his journey in the field of Disaster Risk Reduction and Management.
He also shared his journey of service, from being a volunteer with the Philippine Red Cross – Iligan City Chapter, to serving with the City Government of Iligan, and eventually becoming part of the MSU-IIT Center for Resiliency.
His story demonstrated how volunteerism can become a lifelong commitment to public service, preparedness, and community resilience. More importantly, his experiences reminded the students that meaningful change can begin with a simple willingness to help, learn, and serve.
🌏 ADVANCING THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
The activity also contributes to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
🏘️ SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities
Strengthening awareness of disaster preparedness, resilience, and the importance of communities that are capable of preparing for and responding to hazards.
🌱 SDG 13 – Climate Action
Encouraging awareness, preparedness, and community action in addressing disaster and climate-related risks.
🤝 SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals
Strengthening collaboration among the academe, schools, government institutions, community partners, and individuals working toward sustainable and resilient communities.
💬 “Every experience in service becomes a story—and every story has the power to inspire the next generation to make a difference.”
The MSU-IIT Center for Resiliency extends its appreciation to Asst. Prof. Ryan Jimenez, MA ELS, for leading the project, as well as the project members, faculty, staff, and students of Acelo C. Badelles Sr. Memorial High School for providing a meaningful space for learning and sharing.
May we continue to turn pages, share stories, inspire action, and build communities that are safer, more prepared, sustainable, and resilient. 🌏📖🤝
Turning Pages. Changing Futures. Building Resilience.