Limits for Volunteerism and Education

Nov 16, 2024

Republic Act 9418: Volunteer Act of 2007

Purpose of the Law

  • Promotion of Participation: Promotes the participation of various sectors of society and international organizations in public affairs.
  • Strengthening Volunteerism: Considered a strategy for national development and global cooperation.
  • Three Main Objectives:
    1. Policy Framework: Provides a policy framework to unify the efforts of the volunteer sector.
    2. Conducive Environment: Provides a suitable environment for volunteers and volunteer organizations.
    3. PNVSCA: Strengthens the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency in support of volunteerism.

Role of the Academia

  • Integration into the Curriculum: Incorporates volunteerism into education to encourage students to volunteer.

Concept of Volunteerism

  • Definition: An act involving various activities that empower both the beneficiaries and volunteers.
  • Importance: Strengthens civic engagement, solidarity, and development.

Types of Volunteer Activities

  1. Government-Supported Volunteering:
    • Programs such as Bayanihang Bayan.
    • Agencies: DENR, DOH, CHED, DSWD.
  2. Academic-Based Volunteering:
    • Volunteer projects in academic institutions.
  3. Volunteering for NGOs:
    • NGOs working in various fields, utilizing local and international volunteers.
  4. Corporate Volunteering:
    • CSR projects, such as the "Build a Home" program for Habitat for Humanity.
  5. Foreign-Supported Volunteering:
    • Activities funded by foreign funds from Germans, British, Americans, Koreans, Japanese.

Volunteer Service Organization

  • Recruits, trains, and supports volunteers for various programs.
  • Engagement with international agencies.

Republic Act 7722: Higher Education Act of 1994

Creation of CHED

  • Commission on Higher Education: Established for the governance of higher education, both public and private.

Objectives of CHED

  • Improvement of Education Quality: Support and develop centers of excellence for knowledge and skills.
  • Mission: Provide quality education and make it accessible to all citizens.

Conclusion: These laws aim to strengthen volunteerism and promote a higher level of education in the country.