Steve Arnold A. Romano, a 28-year-old resident of Concepcion, Manjuyod, Negros Oriental, is a remarkable individual whose life story is one of perseverance, dedication, and service.

He graduated from high school under the old curriculum in 2015, but had not pursued college due to financial constraints.

Despite being an undergraduate, he carries a heart full of dreams, especially for his family.

Steve’s parents, hardworking farmers and active community members, instilled in him the values of service and commitment from a young age. Inspired by their example, Steve has dedicated himself to helping others, driven by a desire to make a difference.

Over the years, he has become a reliable figure in times of crisis, always ready to respond to crisis or emergency calls. His desire to serve and learn more has fueled his passion for community work.

Involvement with the KALAHI-CIDSS Program

Steve’s journey as a volunteer began when he became a community volunteer for the KALAHI-CIDSS-PMNP program. His hard work and enthusiasm led to his appointment as the Chairperson of the Community Nutrition Sub-Project Management Committee (CNSPMC).

Through this role, Steve fully embraced the principles of community-driven development and worked closely with local community members. His dedication to the program quickly made him an indispensable part of the team.

As an active and inspiring leader, Steve encouraged his fellow youth to join the initiative, helping facilitate the successful implementation of various programs.

“Kuya Steve showed us that you don’t need a college degree to become a leader. He inspired many of us to get involved and believe in ourselves,” said Jake (not his real name), Steve’s fellow daycare worker.

During a Participatory Situational Analysis (PSA), the community identified the urgent need to improve the barangay daycare building, which had become dilapidated and was no longer safe or conducive for learning.

Due to financial limitations, the barangay had been unable to carry out repairs on the facility.

Fortunately, the KALAHI-CIDSS NCDDP Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Program (PMNP) approved and funded the community’s proposal for the daycare center renovation and provision of amenities and learning materials.

The main goal of the PMNP is to reduce poverty and improve the quality of life of poor Filipino families, particularly by investing in the health, nutrition, and education of children. Part of the PMNP’s broader implementation plan includes strengthening local service delivery, which includes building or enhancing daycare centers, schools, health stations.

Through the collaborative efforts of the Barangay/Municipal Local Government Unit (B/MLGU) and the community, the rehabilitation of the daycare center was successfully carried out.

The center received new amenities, including a TV set, a PC, stove, rice cooker, kitchen utensils, tables and chairs, wall fans, refrigerator, hot and cold water dispenser, steel cabinets, and various learning materials.

As a result, the daycare students and their parents now enjoy a comfortable and conducive learning environment in the newly renovated facility.

‘Overcoming challenges’

Despite his unwavering commitment and selfless service, Steve faced accusations from a few community members who questioned his transparency and credibility, suggesting that he had manipulated the program for personal gain.

However, these challenges did not deter Steve from his mission to serve the community. His passion for helping others remained steadfast, and he continued to volunteer without expecting anything in return.

‘A recognized leader’

Steve’s commitment to service did not go unnoticed.

His dedication to the KALAHI-CIDSS program and his leadership among the youth led to his hiring by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Manjuyod as a staff member of the Local Youth Development Office.

Currently, Steve serves as the elected President of the PAG-ASA Youth Association of the Philippines – Manjuyod Chapter, a position he has held since September 2023. Additionally, he has served as the Vice President for the PAG-ASA Youth Association of the Philippines at the provincial level since November 2024.

Today, Steve is more inspired than ever to continue serving his community. His journey, marked by sacrifices, challenges, and triumphs, proves that a young heart full of dreams can make a lasting difference. With his passion for community service and his leadership skills, Steve will undoubtedly continue to inspire people around him. ###