SAYUDA Newsletter July-Sept 2023

Issue 3

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Volume 6

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July - September 2023

The Official Newsletter of Bukidnon State University

Educate. Innovate. Lead.

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CONTENTS

VISION A premier institution of innovative and ethical leaders for sustainable development

PAGE 3 SMART GOVERNANCE

MISSION The University shall primarily provide advanced education, higher technological, professional instruction and training in the fields of education, arts and sciences, public administration, information technology, accountancy, law and other relevant fields of study. It shall also promote research and extension service, and provide progressive leadership in its areas of specialization.

QUALITY POLICY BukSU is committed to the development, implementation and improvement of the QMS of the University. The importance of understanding, meeting, and enhancing stakeholder requirements is also recognized. This is demonstrated through the Statement of Quality Policy. BukSU commits to provide excellent instruction, responsive research, sustainable extension and quality production for the highest satisfaction of its stakeholders through continual improvement and adherence to applicable requirements. To achieve this, we shall: 1. Demonstrate academic excellence; 2. Harmonize quality assurance efforts; 3. Support International and Multicultural Student Services; 4. Produce research leaders who are able to initiate innovations in consonance with the mandates of the university; 5. Promote production and utilization of research-based innovations, inventions, and instructional materials showcasing innovativeness and creativity; 6. Develop innovative leaders in extension; 7. Enhance the quality of Student Leadership Development; 8. Promote Sustainable Infrastructure Development and Functional Connectivity; 9. Provide an environment for excellence and quality; and 10. Utilize customer feedback for the continual improvement of the Quality Management System.

CORE VALUES

Stories that imply BukSU’s simple, ethical, accountable, responsive and transparent governance

PAGE 4 SMART CAMPUS Stories about facilities in BukSU that leverage innovation and connectivity to enhance learning experiences and support academic excellence

PAGE 4 SMART WORKFORCE Stories about the well-being of the BukSU community

PAGE 5 - 9 SMART RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT & EXTENSION Stories on knowledge creation, transfer, and utilization

PAGE 10 - 19 SMART EDUCATION and SMART STUDENTS Stories about the holistic development of students via diverse programs in sports, literary and the arts, spirituality and cultural competence

Excellence, Professionalism, Integrity, Commitment, Culture Sensitivity

SAYUDÂ is the official newsletter of Bukidnon State University (BukSU). The term “Sayudâ” is inspired by Sayudâ ha Batasan, one of the five pillars of kinship in Bukidnon Indigenous communities. Sayudâ means mutual sharing of information, transparency and truthfulness.

Through the Sayudâ Newsletter, BukSU intends to share with its stakeholders in Bukidnon and the rest of the Philippines its activities, processes and accomplishments.

To contribute or give feedback, please email us at iu@buksu.edu.ph.

To contact Bukidnon State University: Send mail to Bukidnon State University, Fortich Street, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, 8700 Philippines.

SMART GOVERNANCE

SOCOTEC recommends BukSU for Continued Certification of ISO 9001:2015

SMART BukSU President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol meets with SOCOTEC auditors Engr. Fatima Mercurio and Engr. Marisse Cruz

SOCOTEC Certification Philippines recommended Bukidnon State University for Continued Certification of ISO 9001:2015 of the university’s Quality Management System (QMS).

Socotec auditors Engr. Fatima Mercurio and Engr.

Marisse Cruz conducted thorough examination of the university’s processes in following areas: context of the organization, academic programs (sampling of graduate program, COL), research and extension services, guidance/international affairs, curriculum design and development, engineering/ facilities maintenance/calibration, internal audit, library, document control, and management review.

There were 12 positive findings identified by the auditors: 1) the immediate and well-presented documented information of the auditees 2) the commendable leadership and commitment of the Top Management in their knowledge and openness in the QMS 3) the organization’s plans to establish and integrate EMS to their QMS 4) The consultation student/faculty discussion/ agreement form regarding the major output in COLJD103 Legal Research and Writing 5) Commendable establishment of IT HelpDesk 6) Various topnotchers

and top performing school status 7) The utilization of Internal Auditor Evaluation tool 8) The newly established BukSU DocTrack 9) The receipt of Share to Heal program multiple awards and citations 10) Effective tool for the borrowing and returning books 11) The PHREB Level I accreditation attainment 12) BukSU Research Unit’s use of Asian Citation Index.

The auditors also cited areas for improvement, which the university addressed during the Post Audit Management Review on September 7, 2023.

ISO 9001:2015 is a worldwide standard that sets requirements for a strong Quality Management System. It details specific processes, procedures and activities that organizations must create, implement, maintain and improve to successfully manage making products or delivering services. BukSU continually ensures to provide quality services that meet customer and regulatory requirements.

The two-day in-person ISO surveillance audit took place on August 24-25, 2023 at the University Mini Theatre in the presence of the top management and document controllers.

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SMART CAMPUS

BukSU Medina Campus breaks ground for threestorey, 9 classroom academic building

Bukidnon State University Medina Satellite Campus holds a groundbreaking ceremony for its 3-storey, 9-classroom academic building at Sitio Lano Medina, Misamis Oriental on August 1, 2023.

The groundbreaking ceremony was conducted to recognize the significance of the new academic building in catering the needs of its stakeholders, especially the students in the community. A traditional ritual was performed by local indigenous leaders to seek blessings and invoke good fortune for the project.

Bukidnon State University along with LGU-Medina in attendance at the ground-breaking ceremony

Dr. Joy M. Mirasol, the University President, said that the momentous event marked the beginning of a new era to expand educational opportunities, to promote inclusivity, and to share the vision of a SMART BukSU.

Mr. Dante S. Victoria, Jr., Vice President for Administration and Finance, also said that this occasion elevates the quality of education and the mission of BukSU over the years.

Dr. Kerwin Salvador Caragos, BukSU Medina Campus Head, opened the program with a message of gratitude for the presence and support shown by the invited guests. The University and Local Government officials also expressed their delight and shared their success stories with the attendees.

Hon. Donato N. Chan, Municipal Mayor; Hon. Paulo B. Magallanes, Municipal Vice Mayor; Hon. Kim Odchigue, Committee Chair on Education, and the entire LGU have recognized the vital role of education in the development of the community, thus, expressed their full support. The ODSC personnel headed

by Dr. Albert A. Villanca, ESC resident engineers, architects, and contractors also attended the event.

BukSU expressed its gratitude to Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri for prioritizing and realizing this project. With the strong determination of all stakeholders involved, the prospects of finishing the new academic building next year were met with optimism and confidence.

SMART WORKFORCE

36 newly hired regular employees take oath before Dr. Mirasol Thirty-six (36) newly hired BukSU employees took an oath before University President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol at the mini theater on August 22, 2023. Nineteen teaching and 17 non-teaching employees were promoted/ regularized.

In her message, Dr. Mirasol highlighted ethical and innovative leadership as the foundation of the newly hired employees’ commitment to BukSU. For Smart BukSU, ethical and innovative leadership are essential for creating a positive work environment, fostering trust, driving innovation, and ensuring the organization’s long-term success and sustainability.

BukSU also extended their gratitude to its Board of Regents headed by Chairperson-designate CHED Comm.

Jo Mark M. Libre for their support. The Board of Regents approved the presented newly hired employees per BOR Resolution No. 2613 S.2023 for Teaching Employees and BOR Resolution No.2614 S. 2023 for non-teaching employees.

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SMART RDE

INSYGHT: BukSU launches 10 research studies integrating Smart BukSU Framework

The BukSU INSYGHT team

“We are uncertain of our future…we need to look at possibilities how we can prepare ourselves for the upcoming future that’s why we are using Futures Thinking,” Dr. Carina Joane V. Barroso, Vice President for Research, Extension and Innovations (VRPREI), emphasized during the BukSU INSYGHT Writeshop on August 2-4, 2023 in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon.

The word INSYGHT is an acronym for Innovation System for Growth and Holistic Transformation in Higher Education Institution. It is a multidimensional analysis of the research and innovation system for growth and holistic transformation in the higher education institution. INSYGHT is under the Future’s Thinking and by using the Future’s Thinking Tools (FTT), it assisted in defining the future and in looking what they want in the university.

into research, extension, and innovations. For governance, it included ecosystem of governance, foresight planning, and quality assurance.

Dr. Barroso said BukSU has two batches of Futurists.

First was the Core Group, trained last August 2022 by the ASEAN Institute of Management (AIM). She said the Strategic Roadmap was the product of the first training. The second batch will be the Middle Managers and their training is in November 2023.

The Phil Futures Thinking Society and Aptissimi Development Innovations Inc. (ADDI) will handle the training.

“Based on our initial plan, from six, we have evolved it into 10 research studies incorporating the Smart BukSU framework. In the different studies, we will look into our future for the next 5, 10, 20 years depending on the horizon identified by the researchers,” Dr. Barroso said.

In the academe, she said, they have integrated the faculty and students. For the RDE, it was divided

Writeshop during the BukSU INSYGHT held on August 4 at Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon

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PHREB grants Level I Accreditation to BukSU’s Research Ethics Committee, the 1st in Northern Mindanao

College of Nursing with BukSU-REC and former VP for Research, Extension and Innovations Dr. Joy M. Mirasol reveals the announcement of PHREB to BukSU’s Immediate Past President Dr. Oscar B. Cabañelez

MALAYBALAY CITY - The Philippine Health Research Ethics Board (PHREB) granted Level 1 Accreditation for the period of June 5-December 4, 2023 to the Bukidnon State University Research Ethics Committee (REC) on August 11, 2023. The university REC becomes the first in Northern Mindanao to have earned accreditation.

HREB is a national policy-making body in health research ethics in the country. It was created through the DOST Special order no. 091 s. 2006. It ensures that all researches adhere to the universal ethical principles for the protection, promotion, and dignity of health research participants.

“Research’s primary purpose is to improve the quality of human life. In the university it is through research that our instruction will improve, teachers’ competence and the students’ achievements,” Ms. Brenda G. Caballero, Chair of the Research Ethics Committee, said in BukSU Updates interview aired on DXBU 104.5 FM on August 16, 2023.

She added that the purpose of ethics in research is to provide framework for researchers on how they will conduct their research in order to not violate the rights of the participants.

Ms. Caballero mentioned that the REC was constituted in 2017 and their accreditation to PHREB started through the support of the then Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovations now University President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol and former University President Dr. Oscar B. Cabañelez.

She said this feat was made possible through the support of the university administration, REC members and staff. She added that one of their goals this year is to achieve the Level II accreditation and they are already preparing all the documents required.

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SMART RDE

BukSU, City Government of Malaybalay prep for Smart City Project

SMART City Steering Committee/Program Leader VPREI Dr. Carina Joan V. Barroso delivered a talk during the meeting

Representatives from Bukidnon State University and the City Government of Malaybalay spent a productive and meaningful consultative meeting as a follow through activity in the on-going preparation for the Smart City Project, spearheaded by the Department of Science and Technology.

The consultation was attended by representatives from different local and national government agencies, including BukSU’s sister university, the University of Science and Technology in Southern Philippines Vice Chancellor Engr. Alex B. Maureal. Engr. Maureal offered insights, tips, and inspiring words for the participants of the consultative meeting. He offered USTP’s support for the conduct of ideation process, as a way to go to proceed with the projects to launch it from discussion to innovation.

The Smart and Sustainable Communities Program aims to propel and accelerate the growth of communities so that they become smart, sustainable, resilient, technologydriven, and inclusive. The program seeks to further improve quality of life, the efficiency of urban or rural operation and services, and competitiveness, while ensuring that it meets the needs of present and future generations concerning economic, social, and environmental aspects.

DOST Representative led the consultative meeting

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BukSU BGH collaborate with local, int’l partners on a Bryology seminar-workshop

Dr. John C. Brinda, Assistant Scientist at the Missouri Botanical Garden discussed the data management and the making of herbarium labels

Bukidnon State University’s – Botanical Gardens and Herbarium collaborated with local and international partners to discuss the fascinating field of bryophytes on a seminar-workshop on Bryology held at the BukSU Minitheater on July 24, 2023.

BukSU hosted the seminar together with the Central Mindanao University’s Center for Biodiversity Research and Extension in Mindanao (CEBREM). It was also supported by international partners, namely: the National Science Foundation, the Botanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT), the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, the California Academy of Sciences, and the Missouri Botanical Garden.

The said activity aimed to share and understand the features of bryophytes and their evolution, to ascertain bryophyte collection techniques, to produce an online database of bryophytes, and to orient the participants on the role of herbarium specimens in the Herbarium.

This initiative will provide numerous opportunities for BukSU faculty and staff, students and the research and extension.

It will facilitate exchange programs with partner organizations or institutions to expose the faculty and staff to international teaching, research, and administrative methods.

It will also initiate organizing other workshops, seminars, or training sessions for students and faculty conducted with the help and assistance of international experts and create partnerships to help in the advancement and professional growth.

Regular monitoring, evaluation practices, and the development of a long-term strategic plan for collaboration’s impact and development will ensure the improvement and sustainability of collaboration.

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SMART RDE

(From left:) Mr. James Shevock, Research Associate from the California Academy of Sciences, Dr. John C. Brinda, Assistant Scientist at the Missouri Botanical Garden, SMART BukSU President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol, and BGH Director Dr. Lesley C. Lubos

DAP grants “The Go-That-Extra-Mile Award” to BukSU

The Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) granted Bukidnon State University “The Go That Extra Mile Award” during the Alternative Learning System-Education and Skills Training (ALS-EST) Modality III Closeout Conference held at Seda Abreeza, Davao City on August 17, 2023.

The said award was given to BukSU for consistently exceeding expectations and putting in additional effort to achieve exceptional results.

Dr. Jiemalyn B. Paulican, Extension Unit Director of BukSU, said in an interview that the success of the ALS-EST project was a product of evident collaboration which ultimately defined their strength to get through. Though faced by challenges in time and distance among the trainers and trainees, the technical expertise provided by BukSU has sufficed to meet the skills training needs of the 55 identified participants.

BukSU also received Certificate and Plaque of Appreciation for their significant contributions as valued partners in the successful implementation of the Intensified Abot Alam Program – Modality III. The people behind of this endeavor were University President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol, Extension Unit Director Dr. Paulican, Head (ECE) Management Staff Dr. Joanna Ruth S. Paloma, Food and Beverage Services Trainer Dr. Annie Leah Roxann L. Emata, Bread and Pastry Production Trainer Dr. Lucia A. Pajantoy, and Health Care Services Trainer Ms. Hazel P. Agbayani.

This esteemed recognition is a testament to the university’s consistent efforts in surpassing expectations and going above and beyond to achieve exceptional results with BukSU’s partnerships with Dep-Ed Malaybalay City, LGU-Malaybalay, and Bukidnon Tagoloanon Mulahay Ha Kabukalagan Agricultural Cooperative (BukTAMACO) targeted for the Out-of-School Youth and Adults (OSYA) in the City.

This was also made possible through the exemplary leadership of the University President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol.

Her vision and guidance have played an integral role in shaping BukSU’s commitment to excellence. Dr. Carina Joane V. Barroso, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovations, and Dr. Jiemalyn B. Paulican, Extension Unit Director accepted the said award on behalf of the university.

Dr. Paulican laid out a strong support to the SMART RDE of BukSU and remain committed to deliver relevant and responsive extension and community engagement initiatives.

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BukSU launches AI tool ‘Cypher Copilot’ to generate educational materials in minutes

Guests were welcomed at the Bukidnon State University facilitated by the BukSU-CITL

Gearing towards a digital era, Bukidnon State University launched the ‘Cypher Copilot’, a revolutionary Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool for a speedy generation of educational materials through an interactive session held at the President’s Office Conference Room on July 26, 2023.

The Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning (CITL) hosted the mini-launching event and welcomed delegates from the education technology industry, which included Mr. David Tapang, Asia-Pacific Regional Director; and Ms. Hazel Dy Guazo, representing Cypher Learning. Accompanying them were delegates from Expedia Solutions Specialist, Inc (EXSSI): Ms. Marianne Felina Sta Ana, Edtech Director; and Ms. May Anabelle dela Cruz, Sr. Account Manager.

Cypher Copilot is an innovative AI-driven platform designed to empower teachers by generating and curating course content based on selected prompts and personal configurations—all in a matter of minutes. Such was a feat in comparison to the expected two-three months teachers spent for the development of complete courseware.

A clear testament to the institution’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve, embracing new technologies, and redefining the future of education—Bukidnon State University is at the forefront of this technological revolution, empowering educators and students alike to embark on a dynamic learning journey that embraces the power of artificial intelligence.

VP Dr. Hazel Jean M. Abejuela and BukSU President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol overviewed the AI tool assisted by Asia-Pacific Regional Director Mr. David Tapang

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SMART EDUCATION

SMART EDUCATION

BukSU, UniFAST eye P5-M partnership in book production project

Center for Peace Studies Director Mr. Walter I. Balane and Dr. Isa Pab Geen P. Gue, Director of the Business Affairs Office visiting the UniFAST Office in Diliman, Quezon City

Representatives from BukSU – Bukidnon State University and the Commission On Higher Education-United Student Financial Assistance System For Tertiary Education (CHED-UniFAST) are pursuing follow through discussions for the details of an upcoming P5-million partnership project for the production of a UniFAST Milestone Coffee Table Book and an IEC Notebook to be released in October 2023.

Atty. Estevez said BukSU is a preferred content production and printing partner because of the range of its accomplishments and the quality of its outputs, which they needed in immortalizing the legacy of UniFAST in supporting the education of Filipino youth.

Dr. Isa Pab Geen P. Gue, Director of the Business Affairs Office, and Mr. Walter I. Balane, Head of the Information Unit and the OVPREI Center for Peace Studies, meet with UniFAST Executive Director Atty. Ryan L. Estevez and Ms. Precila Chan, Head of Advocacy Promotions and Career Guidance in the UniFAST Office in Diliman, Quezon City on August 16, 2023.

The proposed agency-to-agency Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) engages different academic and administrative units of BukSU and covers selection, writing, editing, layout, and printing of the coffee table book and IEC notebook in time for the anniversary of RA 10931 or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act.

Mr. Balane and Dr. Gue with UniFAST Executive Director Atty.

Ryan L. Estevez

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MART

TUDENTS

› IGoPSS 2023: BukSU receives Outstanding University Award › BukSU excels in SUC FAIR 2023 Song Writing, Vlogging Competitions › BUKSU bags 43 medals during the MASTS friendship games 2023 › BukSU CON marks 17th capping, institutional pinning, candlelighting ceremony › BukSU alumni develop digital tourism app

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SMART STUDENTS

IGoPSS 2023: BukSU receives Outstanding University Award

Sharers of the opening session

Bukidnon State University received the Outstanding University Award for the College of Public Administration and Governance (CPAG) students’ exemplary performance during the 4th International Government and Politics Summer School (IGoPSS) 2023 of the Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Indonesia on July 27, 2023 to August 2, 2023.

The Summer School was virtually done for seven days. It focused on the theme: “Advancements and Developments in the Green Economy Towards Effective Governance and Policy Making.”

Twelve undergraduate students from the College of Public Administration and Governance were invited by the Department of International Government Administration and Affairs (IGOV) of Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Indonesia to join the annual Summer School Program to share their understanding on sustainable development and its implications to human survival through various studies.

The IGoPSS has three main courses. Each has one credit which can be transferred into the students’ campus credit. These are: 1) Governance and Development Issues 2) Public Policy and Governance 3) Politics in Government Issues.

Dr. Christine B. Tenorio, CPAG faculty and alumna of Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Indonesia facilitated the summer school program.

The 12 CPAG student participants were: Ariel B. Caduan II; Caryl Joy M. Lunday; Cecelie M. Yuboc; Emma M. Ymea; Helbert Ybañez Buna; Jayson C. Lopez; Karylle Jane De Castro; Lucie Mae Jayme Pardillo; Meggy Frances L. Alava; Mery Grace Sul-avon Caresosa; Merylle Joice P. Rafols, and; Tristan John G. Luke.

Participants in attendance via Zoom

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BukSU excels in SUC Fair 2023 Song Writing, Vlogging Competitions

Bukidnon State University took a pose for the event together with Vice President for Culture, Arts, Sports, and Student Services Dr. Lincoln V. Tan

Bukidnon State University excelled in the Song Writing and Vlogging competitions during the State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) Fair 2023 held at SM City Iloilo, Philippines on July 10 to 13, 2023. BukSU, headed by Dr. Lincoln V. Tan, VP for Culture, Arts, Sports, and Student Services, represented Region X with 30 delegates sent to compete in four major categories: 1) Song Writing Competition 2) Vlog Competition ) Mr. SUC FAIR – Region 10, and 4) Cultural Show.

Curlis Molina composed the winning masterpiece, “Makabagong Pagbabago” which resonated powerful message about encouraging Filipinos to become its own catalyst of change. Jasper Villafranca and Necole Sigonga brought the composition to life and sung the song with their remarkable interpretations. The song was beautifully woven and accompanied by Kubing, a type of Philippine jaw harp made from bamboo by pressing the mouthpiece to the lips and plucking the end to create a sound. Mr. Ivan Christer Arboladura, the supervising coach of the singers, also made this feat possible by his guidance and expertise. The said award was a testament to their exceptional ability to craft captivating melodies and meaningful lyrics.

On the other hand, BukSU championed during the Vlog Competition.

The vlog entry began with the State Universities and Colleges of Region X which have remarkably transfigured into groundbreaking educational centers in academics, research, extension, and innovations. The video also featured the cultural roots of Bukidnon and its competencies in both local and international landscapes. Mr. Neil Agustin Asenorio from the College of Arts and Sciences, Alrex Omandam Jr. from the College of Technologies,

Curlis Molina, Song Writing Competition Winner

Heterae Dairo from the College of Education, Dynee Marjon De Leon and Raymond Henry Ledesma from the College of Nursing composed the vlog team. They are under the guidance of coach of Mr. Mark Ian M. Mukara, faculty member of the Information Technology Department.

Western Visayas State University (WVSU) hosted the SUC Fair 2023 with 98 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) participants from all over the country. The four-day event focused on the theme: “Navigating the Global Landscape through Innovations, Cultural and Arts Preservation, and Higher Education Quality.” Results of the various competitions can be viewed in WVSU Facebook Page.

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SMART STUDENTS

BukSU bags 43 medals during the MASTS Friendship Games 2023, wins gold in the Chess competition The student-athletes from Bukidnon State University (BukSU) brought home 43 medals during the Mindanao Association of State Tertiary Schools (MASTS) Friendship Games 2023, held in Arakan, Province of Cotabato, on September 10–15, 2023.

Over 180 BukSU-delegates competed in 22 different sports events. BukSU garnered 10 gold, 6 silver, and 27 bronze medals, securing the 11th spot among the 32 other state universities and colleges of the overall ranking.

Mr. Darwen Noro Arnado, a Bachelor of Science in Community Development student, was one of the delegates who won gold medal in the Chess competition.

Arnado said that the “consistent practice” played a huge power for the competition.

“No matter how little time you spend practicing, it can still make a huge impact on your game,” he said.

With this, he encouraged all athletes to always “write their purpose for why they are playing and cite their specific goals” so they would feel motivated.

Darwen Arnado, Chess Competition Gold Medalist.

“All delegates did their best for the competition, and we are all proud to represent BukSU,” added Arnado.

For Mr. and Ms. SPORTS MASTS 2023, BukSU’s representatives, Princess Ianna Jane P. Lumbayan and Reymar Cris Pasquito, were named the 3rd runner-up.

Both of them are Hospitality Management students.

Reymar Cris Pasquito (Right) and Princess Ianna Jane Lumbayan (Left). Mr. and Ms. SPORTS MASTS 2023 representatives.

University President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol and Vice President for Culture, Arts, Sports, and Student Services Dr. Lincoln V. Tan, along with the coaches, extended their full support and congratulations to BukSU student-athletes. Participation in competitions is a testament to BukSU’s pursuit of excellence, not just in the academe but also in sports and other extracurricular activities.

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BukSU CON marks 17th capping, institutional pinning, candle-lighting ceremony “Take heed of this challenge for you are the luminaries of tomorrow’s healthcare,” Dr. Ma. Algerica Cuenco, CON Dean, deliberately said during the Bukidnon State University College of Nursing (CON) 17th Capping, Institutional Pinning, and Candle Lighting Ceremony at the University Gymnasium on September 8, 2023.

The event focused on the theme: BukSU Nursing Students: The Luminaries of Tomorrow’s Healthcare in Upholding the Value and Ethics of Nursing. It symbolizes the transition of 231 students from their academic studies to the practical world of the healthcare profession.

Dr. Cuenco highlighted the pivotal role the students play in shaping the future of healthcare, stating that the said ceremony was the beginning of the students’ nursing journey.

University President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol, also underlined in her message that Nursing is not just a profession, but a calling. She also encouraged the nursing students to carry with them the value of commitment, empathy, and respect for they have the power to inspire, heal, and comfort.

Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Hazel Jean M. Abejuela also extended her confidence to Batch Akasi stating that their dedication will surely have a positive impact in the years to come.

Guest speaker Jennifer M. Luzuriaga, RN, MAN, emphasized the important role that these nursing students would play in the healthcare profession.

“As you take this level, remember that your role extends beyond healthcare. You will become a healer, a listener, and a friend,” said Ms. Luzuriaga, officer-in-charge chief nurse of Bukidnon Provincial Medical Center.

Reflecting on the event, student Ms. Kimberly Anne A. Bionson, the Batch Akasi president, said that the cap, the pin, and the candle have the power to make a difference to those who trust to receive their care.

The roots of this tradition can be traced back in the 12th century, gaining prominence with Florence Nightingale, considered the founder of modern nursing. Nightingale presented medals of excellence to exemplary nursing graduates at her London school.

By the early 20th century, this practice became standard in nursing schools worldwide, as it celebrated the accomplishments of students and their future roles in the nursing profession.

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SMART STUDENTS

The candle-lighting ceremony is done in memory of the tireless efforts at helping the sick and injured, even well into the late hours of the night.

BukSU IT alumni develop digital tourism app

VISITOUR.PH is a web and mobile-based application designed to provide updates from local government units, deliver tourism recommendations, facilitate advanced travel

Bukidnon State University (BukSU) Information Technology (IT) alumni launched a digital program to the local government units of the province, and the faculty and students of Information Technology across the province on September 13, 2023 at the Kaamulan Folk Arts Theater in Malaybalay City.

VISITOUR.PH is a web- and mobile-based application designed to provide updates from local government units, deliver tourism recommendations, facilitate advanced travel Co-founder and President, Emmanuel Bongayon, said that the digital platform was created for sustainable tourism. He said they have collaborated with different local government units to ensure that everyone can benefit from their platform, thus, it serves as a one-stop hub for tourism-related activities catering to local and international travelers.

According to Bongayon, the platform can also be used to showcase various creative artists who wish to advertise their creations.

VISITOUR.PH has seven main features, which include a travel guide, navigational app, listing directory, booking app, business platform, e-wallet (for merchants), and remittance app.

Travelers and visitors can now access the extensive array of services offered by VISITOUR.PH through its user-friendly website or by downloading the application on their Android and iOS mobile devices.

This initiative began from a group of IT graduates who honed their skills during an internship at a tech company. Their team already partnered with three provinces, two cities, and 47 municipalities.

Nineteen partner local government units are from Mindanao, of which 13 are within Bukidnon.

VISITOUR.PH team comprises 18 technical experts.

Eight of them are IT graduates from BukSU. The start-up company behind VISITOUR.PH is set to establish its main office in the city.

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S AYUDÂ Issue 3

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Volume 6

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July - September 2023

The Official Newsletter of Bukidnon State University

ADVISER Joy M. Mirasol, Ph.D. University President

STAFF WRITER Ms. Diana Rose B. Lagoy Staff, Information Unit

EDITOR Mr. Dante S. Victoria, Jr. VPAF/University Secretary

PUBLICATION STAFF Ms. Analiza D. Marquez Staff, Information Unit

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Mr. Rodrigo E. Bolivar II Information Officer III, IU

MANAGING EDITOR Ms. Nova Thirdy E. Agravante Information Officer I, IU

PROOFREADER Dr. Cecille Marie T. Improgo Director, CITL Dr. Joanna Ruth S. Paloma Head, IU Management Staff

CONTRIBUTORS Office of the President Botanical Gardens and Herbarium Mr. John Dale S. Belderol Mr. Walter I. Balane Mr. Ronnel M. Gayon

Ms. Maria Revina G. Saavedra Staff, Information Unit

LAYOUT ARTIST Mr. John Dale S. Belderol Information Officer II, IU

PHOTOGRAPHERS Mr. Mard Aga S. Arellano Mr. Engelbert V. Cabunoc Mr. IJ Patrick R. Enot