11/04/2026
FEATURE | Committed Hearts, Ready Hands, Strong Purpose
Built from a vision, strengthened by challenges and sustained by purpose. The Student Response Unit (SRU) of Southern Luzon State University – Tayabas City Campus stands as a beacon of preparedness and student leadership.
It roots from the initiative of one outstanding student of the campus, Mr. Marc Nicholas Tarray. Who saw what others overlooked—the lack of immediate medical response during emergencies like fainting, wounds and injuries. What began as a plan for only 7 to 10 members quickly grew into a resilient unit, proving its strength. Driven by this need he built it, creating its name, forming a solid foundation. This lead to the official establishment of the organization on March 11, 2024, and was later accredited on November 20, 2024 to formally recognize and legitimize the organization’s operation. Mr. Tarray became the president of the SRU, while our Campus Director, Sir Ortega, served as its adviser after being invited by Mr. Tarray despite his many responsibilities.
As its core mission, the SRU responds quickly to emergencies, especially during campus activities where access to hospitals may be limited. They actively assist the campus clinic to aid injuries and emergencies, they also lead major initiatives like the National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED), to ensure the safety and preparedness of the students in the campus. Yet, behind their resilience are challenges. From the early criticism that dismissed the organization as “all for show”, to ongoing struggle of finding commited, initiative and willing members to join. The strict policies limiting the student’s activities, which causes difficulties in conducting long and intensive training like basic life support. Also the delays in approval during urgent situations have tested their resolve. Despite this, their mission remains unchanged.
Their efforts have not gone unnoticed. The SRU has earned consistent accreditation and recognition from different university offices and disaster response authorities. Their dedication and commitment helps the SRU to become more resilient and remain steadfast in its mission. Along with future plans such as organizing a fire olympics, acquiring a small emergency vehicle, and inspiring more interested students to join. With this the SRU continues to move forward with purpose. Despite early doubts, the SRU still stands firm and will always be there, ready, alert and willing to response to emergencies.
Our Campus Director and Mr. Tarray are deeply grateful to every member who has been part of the SRU. Their initiative, commitment and willingness fuel the organization’s purpose, and that is to serve not only within the campus, but in every moment where help is needed. They prove that meaningful service does not always require large resources, but rather strong commitment and heart to response. As the unit continues to grow, the legacy of Mr. Tarray remains strong. As Sir Ortega stated that "walang SRU kung walang Mr. Tarray".
Written by | John David Gallardo
Layout by | Chandler Abelarde
