On July 15, 2026, the Philippine Association of Students in Office Administration – Saint Louis College Chapter (PASOA–SLC) successfully conducted its community extension activity entitled “Bridging the Digital Divide: Computer Literacy for Barangay Secretaries and Treasurers in Luna, La Union” at Computer Rooms 407 and 408, CEA Building, Saint Louis College, City of San Fernando, La Union.
The activity gathered 73 barangay secretaries and treasurers from the Municipality of Luna, La Union, representing 40 barangays, out of the 80 expected participants. The training was designed to strengthen the digital competencies of local government personnel through a combination of lectures and hands-on workshops focusing on basic computer operations, file and folder management, document processing using Microsoft Word, spreadsheet applications, and mail merge for generating official documents efficiently.
The extension activity was facilitated by Esther F. Cabello, MBA, Program Head of the Bachelor of Science in Office Administration (BSOA), and Gemma A. Magpantay, MBA, BSOA Instructor, who served as the resource speakers and trainers throughout the program. Through their expertise and guidance, participants were introduced to practical digital tools and techniques that enhance office productivity, improve records management, and support the delivery of efficient, accurate, and responsive public service in their respective barangays.
The program also served as the Student Learning Program (SLP) for the course OAC 3 – Keyboarding and Document Processing. As part of this experiential learning initiative, PASOA–SLC student leaders and students enrolled in OAC 3 actively participated in facilitating the seminar-workshop. They assisted participants during the hands-on computer activities, provided technical support, guided the barangay officials in completing workshop exercises, and helped ensure the smooth implementation of the training sessions. Their active involvement enabled them to apply classroom knowledge and skills while developing competencies in leadership, communication, teamwork, and community engagement.
The successful implementation of the extension activity was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Philippine Association of Students in Office Administration – Saint Louis College Chapter (PASOA–SLC), the College of Business and Accountancy, headed by Dr. Caroline G. Pajimola, Academic Dean; the Bachelor of Science in Office Administration (BSOA) Department; the Community Extension and CICM Advocacies Office (CECA); and the Municipality of Luna, La Union. This collaborative undertaking exemplifies the strong partnership between the academic institution and the local government in promoting inclusive development through education, community extension, and public service.
As part of Saint Louis College’s Sinnaranay Program, PASOA–SLC continues to extend learning beyond the classroom by implementing meaningful extension initiatives that empower communities, promote digital literacy, encourage lifelong learning, and strengthen responsive local governance. By integrating academic instruction with community service, the program also provides students with valuable opportunities for experiential learning while making meaningful contributions to society.
Through initiatives such as “Bridging the Digital Divide: Computer Literacy for Barangay Secretaries and Treasurers in Luna, La Union,” PASOA–SLC reaffirms its commitment to creating a positive community impact by equipping public servants with essential digital competencies while preparing future office administration professionals to become socially responsible leaders and partners in nation-building—bridging the digital divide one community at a time.
Words by Apple A. Buen, CIMO Intern
Photos by PASOA Officers
