Bicolanos can borrow this idea

CEBU CITY --- Bicolanos may want to borrow an idea from Cebu—not just a payong, but the idea behind it. A university student government here has launched an umbrella-sharing program that can provide protection from both sudden rains and the intense heat expected during the coming Super El Niño.

The Supreme Student Government (SSG) of Southwestern University PHINMA introduced “U-Payong,” an initiative that makes umbrellas available at designated stations around the university for students and other members of the community to borrow while moving from one area to another.

So, whether the problem is “Basâ ako!” or “Ang init!,” there is a payong nearby.

The student government said the initiative is intended to provide convenience and protection during rainy days and in preparation for the coming Super El Niño, when unusually hot and dry conditions are expected.

Users are encouraged to borrow responsibly, share the umbrellas when possible and, most importantly, return them after use so the next person can enjoy the same protection.

The idea may be particularly worth imitating in Bicol, where residents are accustomed to dealing with both sudden rains and intense heat. Schools, government offices, barangays, markets, terminals and other public places could set up their own U-Payong stations.

Bicol institutions need not copy the program exactly. A school could put a few umbrellas near its gates; a barangay could maintain a small supply at its hall; or a government office could make umbrellas available to visitors who need to walk between buildings. Local businesses and civic groups could also donate umbrellas to get the initiative started.

It does not have to be expensive or complicated. A few umbrellas, a designated rack and a simple honor system may already be enough to get the program going.

And perhaps that is the beauty of the idea: one payong, two purposes—rain protection today, shade from the El Niño sun tomorrow.

Bicolanos may want to borrow more than just an umbrella from Cebu. They can borrow the idea, too.

The only rule is simple: the payong is for sharing, not for souvenirs. Borrow it, use it, and return it for the next person who needs a little shade—or shelter from the rain.