HAPI-Bacolod Revs Up for 2023

By Francine Abalayan
HAPI Scholar | HAPI-Bacolod Member

 “However beautiful the strategy, you should occasionally look at the results.”
–  Winston Churchill

HAPI-Bacolod’s officers and new members conducted strategic planning for 2023 last January 14. Headed by Eldemar Sabete, Lead Convenor, the activity served as a kick-off for the chapter’s plans and upcoming projects for the year.

The chapter gathers annually to brainstorm ideas, discuss potential programs, and evaluate past projects. HAPI-Bacolod places a big focus on Bacoleño youth, raising awareness on certain societal issues, and organizing projects that align with HAPI’s advocacies.

The meeting’s highlight was the development of a SWOT Analysis that aimed to achieve the group’s desired goals. A discussion on how to strengthen the pillars of HAPI-Bacolod was also opened based on its performance in the past year. With this, they hope to improve the execution and proposal of projects, implement internal rules and regulations effectively, and produce successful outcomes.

In addition, the gathering emphasized its new Calendar of Activities for 2023. Members also contributed to the discussion by giving feedback and setting standard practices when collaborating and building partnerships with other organizations.

“HAPI-Bacolod remains a stronghold chapter of HAPI; the chapter never [runs] out of ideas, especially with projects that communities can benefit from,” Rayd Espeja, the chapter’s Deputy Head, observed during group discussions.

Moreover, the Strategic Planning provided an opportunity for HAPI-Bacolod to create Advocacy Groups and elect new leaders. Genrick Catalonia will head the Youth Empowerment group; Joshua Villalobos, HAPI Scholar, will lead Climate and Environment; Carl Villa will manage Culture and Arts, Ryan de Paula will direct Gender Development and Equality; Michaela Borromeo will handle Health, and Junius Dale Capus will lead Social Action.

Espeja further shared why organizations like HAPI need to conduct strategic planning, “It is significant to conduct this kind of activity annually not only to maintain the productivity of one’s organization but also to allow a [chapter] like HAPI-Bacolod to stay within its track.”

The event ended with fun and hope as everyone was excited to start the year full of energy, ideas, and initiative. The meeting allowed the members to evaluate their experiences and challenges over the past years and to continue striving for excellence as they help the community and make a change in this world.