PLM-OSDS hosts three-day leadership training for student councils, organizations
Written by Marian Sophia Carreon • Photos by Marian Sophia Carreon and Samantha Nicole Prado | 24 May 25
Student-leaders from various councils and organizations of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) gathered for a three-day leadership planning and team-building event held at Forest Crest Nature Hotel & Resort in Nasugbu, Batangas, May 7-9.
Organized by the Office of Student Development and Services (OSDS), the event aimed to foster collaboration and strengthen leadership skills under the theme, “Beyond Titles: Leading through Actions, not just Positions.”
In his opening remarks, OSDS Director Prof. Mark Anthony Mercado welcomed the attendees and emphasized the purpose of the leadership training.
“It invites us to reflect on the true essence of leadership, not as a role limited to titles or positions, but as a daily commitment to serve, inspire, and create impact,” he stated. “May this experience help us to cultivate a stronger sense of purpose and dedication as we prepare to serve in the [upcoming] academic year.”
The said program included a series of leadership seminars, outdoor activities, and reflective sessions to enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.
One of the resource speakers, Mr. Schubert “Bong” Austero, an experienced HR professional and former People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP) President, underscored the potential of the youth as key actors of the future.
He highlighted the importance of effective and compassionate leadership by discussing a series of alarming national issues such as poverty, EDSA traffic congestion, and the prevalence of illiteracy among Filipino children.
Later that day, Austero was joined by guest speakers: Ms. Ging Igual, Atty. Raymond Sanchez, and Mr. Christian Vanelli Zalamea, who further explored the essential qualities of leadership such as emotional intelligence, empathy, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate and collaborate with one another.
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The second day featured the PLM Amazing Race, a series of physically and mentally challenging team games that tested the wit, patience, and teamwork of the student-leaders. The evening culminated in the Social Night, where they showcased their talents and strengthened bonds through performances, laughter, and camaraderie.
On the final day, University President Atty. Domingo “Sonny” Y. Reyes graced the program, sharing personal stories of leadership and outlining the university’s accomplishments from the past year. Guided by the university’s core principles of Karunungan, Kaunlaran, and Kadakilaan, he had always aimed to foster a “culture of greetings and celebration” within PLM.
“Because I always want a community that is bound together for a common purpose, and I cannot do it alone. Leadership is not a stand-alone responsibility; it is a community responsibility because all of us are all leaders in our own [...] ways,” he said. The event concluded with a recognition ceremony, where winners of the team games and performances were awarded.












































