From inspiring speakers and insightful presentations, to amusing ice-breakers and relatable stories of moments in action—the PADAYON Webinar Series had it all.
In the age of virtual gatherings and remote delivery of education due to the global health crisis, it comes as a struggle to juggle fulfillment of responsibilities and maintaining wellness. Rotaract Club of Batangas Mid-West and partner organizations found a way to extend a helping hand to a wider audience of diverse individuals, mostly students. Given the world’s fast and drastically changing pace, we are set to adapt to these changes especially in our education.
Maria Julia M. Valdez is currently studying in University of the Philippines Los Baños. Balancing academic life and service she also serves as the External Affairs Head for UP Samahan ng mga Lantay na Diamante (UP SALADIA) 
Yarah Bitang is a Grade 12-STEM student currently studying in Fame Academy of Science and Technology (FAST) in Taal, Batangas, and an active member of the Interact Club of FAST Batangas Mid-West (IAC FAST BMW).
The themes of every session resonated with the different hardships we experienced during this pandemic, and being able to voice those concerns and be presented with distinct solutions from different experts, brought a ray of hope. MINDEMIC prompted us to look after our mental state and cultivate healthy habits to enrich the mind. Moreover, the focus of HEARTDEMIC is to elaborate on how to establish and maintain social ties amidst these trying times and finally, HANDEMIC, which enlightened us about the steps we can take in ensuring quality education through easy navigation of online tools and platforms.
All in all, the webinar series completed our Sunday and Thursday nights. Not only did we gain insights from people who wanted to help us, we also enjoyed hearing the stories of working for the common good and service to all. As students, we were reminded of how much power we hold—and how extending a helping hand like what others have been doing to us—will break down barriers that would be impossible to destroy alone.
We learned that even though we are bound to this virtual world, there is no limit to greatness and compassion. Together, we can help each other become a person with a healthy mind and a kind heart who will not hesitate to take action and move forward.
