Two of Xavier University’s proud student organizations journeyed this year in the prestigious search for the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations of the Philippines or TAYO, organized by the TAYO Awards Foundation, National Youth Commission, and Team Kiko, the team behind Senator Francis Pangilinan. While Xavier English Language and Literature Organization or XELLO (a partner organization of STREAMS) reached the Mindanao Area Finals, Supplementary Training to Reinforce Education of the Academically-Gifted but Marginalized Students or STREAMS “rowed” even further to the National Finals.

STREAMS, an educational development program under the Office of Student Affairs and a Pathways youth group in the country joined the other 19 national finalists in Manila last October 18-23 with its entry project, “STREAMS Academic Enrichment Program.” The project provided Saturday enrichment classes in English, Math, Biology, Chemistry and Computer to poor but deserving graduating high school students in preparation for their tertiary education. Mr. Ivanell R. Subrabas, immediate past President, represented the organization. The awarding ceremony was held last October 22 at Intercontinental Hotel in Manila where Sen. Pangilinan personally awarded the finalists and winners. STREAMS received a hand-crafted trophy, specially made for the TAYO winners and a cash grant worth Php25,000.00.

Likewise, XELLO, the student organization of all AB English Language and Literature Studies majors, was adjudged as one of the 10 Mindanao Finalists during the  Mindanao  Area Finals last September 14 in Davao City. Its entry project was “Adopt-A-School, Support a Library Hub” which provided little but able assistance to the Library Hub of the Department of Education – Region X situated at Cugman Elementary School. Ms. Lea Mae O. Udasco, incumbent President, represented the organization.

“Being a Mindanao finalist is really a milestone“ stressed Ms. Udasco. “And reaching the National Finals is likewise a great success attributable to those who believe and ‘row’ with us. STREAMS and XELLO take joy in being able to make a difference in the lives of other people” added Mr. Subrabas.

More than 100 youth organizations in the country joined the search until only 20 were chosen for the National Finals.

The TAYO search aims to empower, mobilize and honor youth organizations that have contributed to nation building by taking the extra mile. STREAMS and XELLO are just two of these organizations that serve not just their members, but also the community at large.

To STREAMS, XELLO and those organizations that commit themselves to serving others and the community, a sounding thanks and congratulations to all of you from the whole XU Community.