As a celebration of unity, festivities, and public service, the Davao del Sur State College commemorated at the same time its Family Day and the 125th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary on September 29, 2025 at the Lumbayan Beach Resort, Balutakay, Hagonoy Davao del Sur.

The event started with an inspirational message from DSSC Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Siverlyn Camposano, where she made a strong point on the importance of kinship ties among members of the DSSC family. In her address, she bluntly stated, "We may have different fathers, but we share one mother and that is our very own president, Dr. Augie E. Fuentes." Her speech led to a day of camaraderie, tolerance, and celebration of institutional and national success.

Richard Ortiz, Director of the Civil Service Commission for Davao del Sur and Davao Occidental, joined in the festivities and highlighted the theme for this year's Civil Service Anniversary: "Bawat Kawani, Lingkod Bayani: Puso, Dangal, at Galing Para sa Bayan." As he spoke on the importance of true service in government, Director Ortiz was clearly moved. He testified that "PUSO is service that comes not just out of duty, but out of a genuine concern for those who are served."

A highlight of the event was the oath-taking ceremony of the five new recruits that formally became members of the DSSC family during the ceremony. Surrounded by fellow workers, their public affirmation to serve was a symbol of the ever-expanding DSSC workforce committed to excellence and public service.

As part of the celebration of the institution's 125th founding anniversary, College President Dr. Augie Fuentes delivered a message emphasizing the enduring values of public service.   "As we honor 125 years of civil service, let us also lay the foundation for the next 125 years. Let us commit to: Serve with Heart (Puso) — showing empathy and genuine concern for our stakeholders; Serve with Honor (Dangal) — upholding integrity, transparency, and accountability in all our actions; Serve with Skill (Galing) — continuously striving for improvement, innovation, and excellence. “Ang tunay na lingkod-bayan ay hindi lamang basta nagtatrabaho, kundi naglilingkod nang may puso, dangal, at galing.” The essence of her speech was beautifully captured in the following visual, which served as both a highlight and a guiding principle of the celebration. It serves as a timeless reminder that true public service is not merely about fulfilling tasks, but about serving with compassion, integrity, and excellence—values that will continue to guide the institution well into the future.

The festive atmosphere continued with a series of colorful and highly anticipated contests, where five diligent teams competed: Crimson Crusaders, Sapphire Sentinels, Mauve Magis, Amber Aegis, and Verdant Vanguards.

Highlights of the day included: Cheering Competition  where school energy and spirit came alive through teams; Best Dressed Icon, a display of class and imagination; and Drag Queen Competition, a fun and all-inclusive celebration of creativity and self-expression.

At the end, the Mauve Magis and Crimson Crusaders became the overall champion by winning over both the judges and public with their impeccable performances, camaraderie, and teamwork.

The program not only honored the nation's civil service tradition but also reaffirms the DSSC community's commitment to excellence, public service, and one another as one family, one institution.

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