MAASIN, Iloilo – A group of engineering students from the National University of Singapore (NUS) is turning compassion into action in one of Iloilo’s upland communities, building a much-needed water system for an elementary school in Barangay Layog — a project they not only planned, but also personally raised funds for.
Arriving in Iloilo on May 20, the 24 NUS students launched their two-week mission under Singapore’s Youth Expedition Project (YEP), a volunteer program focused on international service learning.
The students are working alongside residents of Barangay Layog to build a water facility and wash area that is expected to improve hygiene and daily convenience for local schoolchildren.
“This project is not just about infrastructure; it’s about connection, solidarity, and sustained engagement,” said Iloilo Provincial Administrator Raul Banias, who noted that the YEP first took root in Iloilo 20 years ago in Concepcion during his time as mayor.
The initiative, which has seen past collaborations with Singapore Polytechnic and Singapore Management University, had been put on hold due to the pandemic.
Banias lauded the return of the program and expressed optimism that this renewed partnership, now with NUS, would usher in more frequent and deeper exchanges.
“This is the first time the National University of Singapore has sent 24 students. I hope this will be a start, and they will keep coming back because of their good immersion and experience in Iloilo,” he added.
The group also paid a courtesy visit to Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., who welcomed the students and expressed strong support for academic and cultural partnerships between Iloilo and Singapore.
Apart from the construction project, the visiting students will tour Iloilo City universities to explore future collaborations and gain insights into the Philippine education system — potentially paving the way for broader regional academic ties./PN
