STUDENT groups in the University of the Philippines Mindanao will establish a community pantry to provide basic necessities to poor residents near the campus.

The initiative is in partnership with the College Editors Guild of the Philippines-Southern Mindanao Region, CEGP-Davao, and Tulong Kabataan-Davao.

The community pantry will be spearheaded by UPM University Student Council, its partner local student councils, and the school’s publication Himati.

The students said that they came up with the idea to stay true to their values of honor and excellence not only in academics but also in serving the people.

“As student leaders and as Iskolar ng Bayan, we strongly believe that we must never forget our duties and responsibilities to the whole UP Mindanao community especially now that we are facing an extreme health and economic crises,” the students said in a letter to UPM Chancellor Dr. Larry Digal.

They gave assurances that they will properly coordinate with the barangay to ensure that health protocols will be strictly followed.

They also encouraged other students, faculty, staff and members of the UPM community to donate cash or goods, saying that the support of everyone is essential for the success of the initiative.