“𝑩𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒕 𝒌𝒂 𝒏𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒕𝒐? 𝑨𝒏𝒐 𝒂𝒏𝒈 𝒈𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒈𝒂𝒘𝒊𝒏 𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒚𝒂𝒓𝒊 𝒑𝒂?”
These were the questions that invited reflection among participants during the first session of the 7-Thursday Staff Empowerment Curriculum, Hands That Think: Empowering the Hands that Keep the University Moving, held on July 2, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. in the Jose, Justina, Dominga (JJD) Garcia Auditorium.
“It reminded us that every individual in the University plays a vital role in its success,” wrote Jhoanna D. Andres, a newly hired marketing staff member of the Public Information Office, in her post-session reflection.The program, initiated by Dr. Gladys P. Mangiduyos, Vice President for Administration and Planning, who also facilitated the session, was attended by staff members from the University’s various offices and the Hospital.Starting the session, Dr. Mangiduyos discussed the significance of the seven-session curriculum. She explained that the number seven symbolizes completion, fulfillment, wholeness, and sacred purpose, relating these concepts to workplace values such as safety, responsiveness, effective communication, service, problem-solving, and integrity.
Building on these organizational values, the discussion shifted to the realities of the workplace, particularly the effects of pressure on employees’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The speaker emphasized the importance of self-care and effective stress management in sustaining productivity and service.
From workplace wellness, the lecture moved to the concept of educere, a Latin word meaning “to lead out” or “to bring forth.” Here, Dr. Mangiduyos explained that education is not limited to the development of students but also involves drawing out the confidence, competence, leadership, creativity, and potential of every member of the University community.
The discussion then progressed to the decision-making principle, “Pause. Ask. Choose,” which encouraged employees to pause before reacting, ask questions, verify information, seek evidence, and make informed decisions grounded in facts and understanding.
Concluding the session, Dr. Mangiduyos guided the participants to reflect on the relationship among job, skills, and mission. Using the analogy of individual bricks forming a wall, she illustrated how every employee’s contribution, regardless of role, supports the University’s mission and long-term goals. The analogy echoed the session’s opening invitation for participants to reflect on why they are in the University and the contribution they hope to make through their work.
Article by PIO
Photos by Jhoanna D. Andres (PIO)
