Written by Eubelle Agpes
Not all heroes wear capes, and true to this, some of them are still in their primary years. This year, the University of Baguio Laboratory Elementary School (UBLES) students from Nursery to Sixth Grade embodied courage, empathy, and responsibility as they actively participated in the Anti-Bullying Campaign in celebration of Love and Wellness Month, held in collaboration with the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) and the Supreme Pupil Government (SPG). Anchored on the principle of People Empowerment, the initiative aims to nurture socially responsible learners by promoting inclusivity, safeguarding vulnerable individuals, and strengthening students’ sense of belonging and community.
The three-day campaign, conducted on February 19, 26, and 27, 2026, aimed to equip young learners with knowledge, awareness, and practical skills to cultivate kindness, respect, and emotional well-being within their school environment. Spearheaded by Guidance Associate Ma’am Jenel Mae Baniaga and Foundation of Discipline Ma’am Faye Ruizza Pagaduan, the event created a safe and engaging platform where students were encouraged to express themselves freely, stand up for others, and actively contribute to building a caring and inclusive school culture.
Student interns facilitated interactive discussions and activities that centered on essential anti-bullying themes, including understanding the nature of bullying and the individuals involved, appropriate actions before, during, and after bullying incidents, and strategies for fostering a safe, respectful, and mentally healthy learning environment. Necessary discussions were also placed on coping techniques and emotional regulation, empowering students to manage their feelings constructively while developing empathy, resilience, and social awareness, which are key elements in protecting vulnerable groups and nurturing a shared sense of responsibility.
This shows the University’s support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being, by fostering mental health awareness, emotional resilience, and positive coping strategies among children. It also advances SDG 4: Quality Education, through the integration of values, social-emotional learning, and character development in early education. By cultivating a peaceful, inclusive, and respectful school environment, the campaign also contributes to SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, reinforcing the importance of nurturing safe, just, and compassionate communities.
Through this meaningful campaign, UBLES continues to mold not only academically competent learners but also empowered young heroes who are equipped to protect others, stand against bullying, and champion kindness, unity, and inclusion in their everyday lives, encouraging them to see themselves not merely as individuals but as part of a larger community where everyone plays a vital role in maintaining harmony and safety, embodying People Empowerment that fosters shared responsibility, unity, and collective action.
