Lead Camp ’26 concludes, inspires new era of leadership

United as one, driven by purpose, and bound by a shared vision for leadership, College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) mayors converged for Polaris: Lead Camp 2026 held on October 19 at the Audio Visual Room, embarking on a two-day journey of growth, collaboration, and camaraderie.

CAS Student Council Adviser, Mr. Aloysius Bigcas opened the program with a thought-provoking question: “Ano nga ba ang North Star?” emphasizing that while a guide may not ease the journey, it provides direction amid uncertainty.

Building on this message, CAS Instructor, Mr. Johnny Balmores led the first leadership talk, ‘Siak’ highlighting the importance of self-awareness in effective leadership. Mr. Balmores reminded mayors, “Before you lead others, you must first learn to lead yourself.”

Student Formation Manager Ma. Carmela De Perio then led ‘Sangkarakelan,’ emphasizing how leadership thrives through community, mutual support, and the willingness to learn from one’s weaknesses.

In the afternoon, former CASSC Governor Kurt Clio Serrano presented the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) project proposal blueprint, highlighting officers' role in developing initiatives aligned with the SDG.

Following the presentation, CAS mayors participated in team-building activities across PHINMA University of Pangasinan, strengthening collaboration and camaraderie. Day 2 concluded with a socialization activity and the awarding of CASSC officers for Academic Year 2025–2026.

In the third day of Polaris Lead Camp, former CASSC Treasurer, Joseph Mejia presented the MCOA and budget allocation, outlining their term expenses and promoting transparency in organizational finances.

CAS Department Dean, Mr. Franklin De Guzman spearheaded the ‘Sikami’ talk, emphasizing that CAS leaders are catalysts for meaningful change, empowered to inspire action and create lasting impact in their communities.

Following the leadership sessions, the much-anticipated election of CASSC officers for A.Y. 2026–2027 commenced under the supervision of the Appointments, Performance Evaluation, and Electoral Commission. Empleo, Bon Rexel C., was elected Governor, while Ico, Maria Lourdes A., was elected Vice Governor.

The other elected officers are:

Secretary: Estrada, Mary Deniese

Treasurer: Celi, Yohann Ondredi Sky S.

Auditor: Malicdem, Jerome C.

S.I.O.: Garcia, Laila V., and Adriano, Rhein B.

S.O.C.O.: Estrada, Lyka Marie S., and Soriano, Russel James C.

Peace Officers: Agbayani, Yusef Maki, and Gelidon, Zianne Dominique

SIC RC: Resuello, John David

SIC OD: Galindo, Janella Monette

With the election concluded, Dean Franklin De Guzman administered the oath of office to the newly elected officers, followed by an inspirational message from CASSC Adviser, Mr. Aloysius Bigcas.

As the camp drew to a close, former CASSC Vice Governor Ishiro Andryu Pabuna delivered the words of gratitude, reflecting on the connections and experiences shared throughout their term.

Leaving the mayors with a final reminder of unity, former CASSC Governor Kurt Clio Serrano told the newly elected officers, “Kalimutan niyo na ang lahat, huwag lang ang isa’t isa. Tandaan niyo, we are CAS—united as one,” formally closing POLARIS: Lead Camp ’26 with a call to preserve the spirit of solidarity beyond the North Star.