BulSU GEAR Vol.3, No.1

In this Issue...

BulSU Organizes a Two-Series SOC Webinar-Training ..... 6

An Overview of CIT Graduates’ Readiness for The Future: A Perspective from The Lens Of Successful CIT Alumni ..... 7

BulSU Prepares to be a Center of Development and Center of Excellence ..... 8

Bulacan State University-Meneses Campus Presents the 2nd Semester 2021–2022 Gold Gear Awardees ..... 9

BulSU Meneses Campus Partners with Occidental Mindoro State University ..... 10

2nd Student Research Summit 2022 – External Campuses ..... 11

An All-New BulSU Experience: Project Management Office as Implementer of Educational

Infrastructure Progress ..... 12

Sabay-Sabay Tayong Mag-Duck, Cover, and Hold sa Pagtunog ng Sirena ..... 14

JFINEX-Sarmiento Campus Explores the Metaverse ..... 15

Gold Gear Awards for Hospitality and Tourism Management 2022 ..... 16

BulSU Visits DOST-ASTI ..... 16

DILG Continues Partnership with BulSU thru LED4LGUs ..... 17

Institutionalization of International English Language Proficiency and Qualification

Assessment at Bulacan State University ..... 18

Bulsu Health Protocols for the Limited Face-To-Face Classes ..... 20

Word Hunt ..... 24

Academic Calendar A.Y. 2022-2023 ..... 25

MOVe On AnD MOVe ALOnG

More than two years ago, we were shattered by the pandemic that hit the entire nation. COVID-19 has severely impaired the lives of people in different aspects.

The global economy was hit hard, countless lives were taken, schools were shut down, lockdowns were implemented, and workers were laid off.

Since then and until now, we have been fighting to create solutions to provide urgent actions to mitigate worse economic consequences, to guard the vulnerable population, and to get a better jumpstart for a long-term recovery.

Meanwhile, students continue to miss in-person schooling, making them shift abruptly to a new set of learning modalities. This disruption in the education system around the world worsened the pre-existing educational crisis.

Transformation is the key, and we need to keep on moving forward, without looking back to mobilize the continuum of learning.

The birth of a variety of modes such as SL, AOL, and now HYFLEX paved the way for the students to continue with their studies despite economic and physical setbacks brought about by the pandemic. Embracing these deviations and adjustments is what we all need to do as we try to surpass the devastating impacts of this catastrophe. Academic normalcy should be within reach for students, parents, and educators.

Even though most struggles are overwhelming because of the missed days and even weeks of distance learning, we are on the verge of moving on as we navigate the pandemic while building a better and stronger school community.

Teachers need to ensure equitable learning opportunities. Everyone must move along and work together in order to ensure every student and every educator will operate in safe, supportive, and enriching spaces.

Simple acts like constantly wearing facemasks, consciously maintaining social distance, and deliberately warranting complete health will definitely drive us to a road of new normality.

In the meantime, this is the best time to dedicate more resources to education, to promote greater awareness of new skills sets, training, and also technology, and to support initiatives that will build system resiliency.

Reality check: future outbreaks and temporary closures are still possible, guarded by the norms we have been used to, we need to move on and move along.

PRiViLeGe sPeech

The journey of an educational institution like BulSU through the Covid-19 pandemic is a very challenging and demanding pursuit. It calls for thorough reflection and scrutiny of existing policies, guidelines, programs, projects and activities for enhancement and relevance. On the other hand, it gives opportunities to create and propose new ones. The Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs (OVPAA) is now responsible for such enhancements and proposals.

It is a blessing that the VPAA team is composed of committed and dedicated individuals with the same motivation, purpose, direction and passion. Although, in our early months of working together, we all experienced testing the waters so to speak. However, as times went by, our bond became

stronger, we stayed diligent and focus on our duties as we learned to ignore discouraging words along the way. WE ARE INDIVIDUALLY UNIQUE, BUT WE COMPLEMENT EACH OTHER. I AM PROUD OF MY TEAM.

We are humbled by what we have accomplished, so far, and our willingness to serve never waver. We are inspired in knowing that in our hearts and minds, we are working for the interests and welfare of our valued stakeholders.

With earnest prayer that our Heavenly Father continuously guide and bless the University and the BulSU community.

Edgardo M. Santos, Ph.D. Vice President for Academic Affairs

BulSu JoinS ASCu-SoliD north

Bulacan State University (BulSU) Faculty and non-teaching staff attended the Summer Olympics 2022 of the Association of State Colleges and UniversitiesSolid North (ASCU-SN) at Benguet State University in La Trinidad, Benguet.

The competition was hosted by Benguet State University and lasted five (5) days from July 19 to July 23, 2022. The competitions began on July 20th along with the inaugural show.

BulSU participants who qualified for the Show Choir competition include Dean Aimie Madlang Bayan, Cristine Abigail Ayran, Aaron Deganos, and Cherry Bernardo for soprano, and Franchesca Djanne Magpayo, Leandro Rabang, Marie-Musca-Puno, and Ronnalyn Cruz for alto. Tenor singers include Ruzzel Diego, Chrizver Daluz, Aaron Paul Dela Rosa, and Bryan Joseph. The bass singers are Luis Mariae Agtarap, Marlo De Belen, and William Alcantara.

The special participation of the university president, Dr. Cecilia S. Navasero-Gascon, was also showcased as she demonstrated her gracefulness in the competition. The BulSU show choir members sang Maymay Entrata’s song “Amakabogera” under the direction and choreography of Sir Jeandro “Jean” Rabang and Sir Ruzzel Valenzuela.

BulSU won the Pop Dance competition by performing “Bagani’’, a composition by Roel Rostata. Ronnalyn Cruz, Ruzzel Valenzuela, Ruzzel Diego, Bryan Joseph Bautista, and Anthony De Guzman made up the team. Alongside, Mr. Emil Cruz and Ms. Cristy Joy Bonga of Bulacan State University were the winners of the King of Social Dance and Queen of Social Dance competitions.

BulSU proved that they are not just kabogera in sporting competitions but also in cultural fests. BulSU also emerged as champion in Badminton- Men’s Double, Badminton-Women Single, Badminton- Men Single, Chess Individual Category, Basketball 3on3 age 45 and above, Athletics 100-meter, and Volleyball Men.

BulSu orGAnizeS A two-SerieS SPoC weBinAr-trAininG

Bulacan State University – The Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs conducted a two-day webinar training on SPOC2, spearheaded by the Education Development Office, on May 17 and 25, 2022, via Zoom.

With the theme, “Small Private Online Courses (SPOC): An Ongoing Journey for an Advanced Educational Platform”, the webinar training talked about how the university can extend its assistance to its students amidst adhering to the advanced educational platform available today.

Ria Valerie D. Cabanes, RN, MAN, Chair of Institutional Research Ethics Committee from the University of the Philippines Open University, discussed her topic “Development of Horizontal Syllabus”. Meanwhile, the Dean of the Faculty of Education from UP Open University, Ricardo T. Bagarinao, Ph. D shared about Design and Development of SPOC Material.

The two-series webinar training was held with a morning and an afternoon session, followed by an open forum discussing the topics, privileges, and opportunities of the online courses. As SPOC journeyed to providing small-class size online courses, universities offer interactive learning and exercises to individual students or members of the organization.

The webinar training was attended by the Ad Hoc Committee for SPOC and Quality Circle Members of SPOC from the different colleges and campuses across the BulSU system.

An overview of CIt GrADuAteS’ reADineSS for the future: A PerSPeCtive from the lenS of SuCCeSSful CIt Alumni

On June 3, 2022, the College of Industrial Technology (CIT) and the Bulacan State University Alumni Relations Office (BulSU-ARO) co-hosted a full-day webinar via Zoom application to share the experiences of their alumni and to inspire participants with the knowledge and expertise of professionals in the field of industrial technology.

The purpose of the webinar, “A Perspective from the Lens of Successful CIT Alumni,” was to motivate the prospective graduates of the College of Industrial Technology by highlighting the significance of their post-college lives and career endeavors.

The op portunities presented by the webinar event was stressed by Prof. Theresa F. Reyes, Director of Alumni Affairs at Bulacan State University’s College of Industrial Technology. She explained how the students would gain from the specialists in the selected industry. Prof. Reyes concluded her remarks by expressing her gratitude to the webinar’s participants and to the resource speakers who gave their time and effort to share their experiences in their areas of expertise.

The first resource speaker, Ms. Jhoane R. Cruz, was then presented by Melanie A. Caballero, CIT’s alumni coordinator. Ms. Cruz is currently the senior manager of research and development at Fisher Farm Inc. in Pulilan, Bulacan. It was not surprising though as she was the recipient of their Best Research Study award when she was taking the Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology with a concentration in Food Service Management.

Being patient and independent are among Jhoane R. Cruz’s list of seven (7) things recent college grads should remember because everyone started off at the bottom. As she emphasized the value of being a modest employee, she also enjoined the graduates to

refuse the label to which their generation is entitled. She acknowledged that frustration is common, but said that being constantly frustrated by even the smallest accomplishments shouldn’t be a trait shared by everyone. Cruz also said that taking chances is essential. Graduates should take the risk to change their course and not simply follow the crowd, as doing so will balance out the following principle, which is knowing one’s value.

Cruz has made it normal to become scared of the outside world after college. She acknowledged that there must be so many questions coming in from the graduates, but with all those possible questions, she put emphasis that no matter how scary the world is outside, and even though it’s a whole lot of different worlds after college, at the end of the day, fear is only coming within and with all pride and determination, the graduates can surely overcome it. Ending it with a bang, Jhoane Cruz gave her one last statement, “We’ve been waiting for you.”

On to the next speaker, alumnus Ruel Hipolito, a business owner and a former College of Industrial Technology Department Consultant, and a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology major in Electrical Technology graduate ventures his career in producing and investing his product from scratch. He shared his experiences and a couple of tips to the graduates if they are interested in starting their own business. His product and equipment are mostly venturing and made available to universities in Visayas and Mindanao. Hipolito encourages the graduates to appreciate the negative result, as it is still a great experience at the end of the day. Ruel Hipolito ended his talk with an inspirational message to the graduates to strengthen their beliefs and hold onto their dreams.

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The third speaker primarily discussed the field of food technology. Christian Anthony Castillo is a BulSU CIT Faculty member, and an alumnus of the university. He earned a BS in Industrial Technology with a focus in Food Technology and an MBA with a focus in Hospitality Management. In addition to producing his art through baking pastries, he has dabbled in product development consulting. Castillo, as a professional in his chosen field, suggested a few career paths that graduates can try after college. He also said that knowing one’s worth can be of huge help to survive in this field.

A graduate of Bulacan State University’s College of Industrial Technology who majored in Drafting Technology and is currently employed by Hitachi Ltd is the webinar’s fourth and final speaker. Vanessa B. Dela Cruz thanks the host for the invitation and shares her knowledge of basic manual drawing, drafting fundamentals, and commonly used software such as AutoCad and Microsoft. Dela Cruz acquired her skills from the following application and practices, as well from the learnings obtained from the academe. She was a Real Estate Developer and an AutoCad operator as she believes these were only the skills that can enhance her skills in Drafting. Eventually, Dela Cruz gained opportunities, with the help of the university, in working with different companies, and she landed a job in Hitachi Ltd, where she was currently affiliated. She is designing computer-aided infrastructures using the software available, civil structures in that matter. As part of this, she demonstrated how computer-aided drafting turns a raw drawing into software and creates civil structure out of it. Once it’s aided digitally, it will turn into an equipment design, piping, and steel structure. One of the challenges she mentioned is when working in an international brand, and the language within the tools used is not the mother tongue of the employee – in her case, she needs to overcome the obstacle of using the software and tools written in the Japanese language.

The webinar is attended by university administrators, staff, students, and alumni and ends with a fruitful sharing of knowledge, expertise, and reallife experiences from the alumni invited.

BulSu PrePAreS to Be A Center of DeveloPment AnD Center of exCellenCe

Daniel Jumaquio

On April 28, 2022, our Chancellor, Dr. Reynaldo S. Naguit, and Vice-Chancellor Raquel C. Adriano led a face-to-face meeting to broaden the views and perspectives of each faculty member in preparation for certification as a Center of Development (COD) and Center of Excellence (COE). The Department Heads and Program Chairs of External Campuses’ Education and IT programs discussed the proposed programs and made the necessary actions and adjustments to further improve their curricular offerings.

Making a project proposal and feasibility study, training and mentoring for Thesis Presentation, publishing research, checking the records of Board Passers, and providing a refresher course/s for retention policy/program were among the important topics discussed. These actions will be critical in improving the core of each program and putting it in a better position to become COD certified.

During the meeting, they also held a workshop and brainstormed about the criteria for becoming COD certified, reviewed their current level, and devised systematic plans to improve their programs to have a greater impact and achieve greater success for our stakeholders. This initiative demonstrates every faculty’s dedication and triumphant will to spark change and develop sustainable growth and development for the entire University.

BulACAn StAte univerSitY-meneSeS CAmPuS PreSentS the 2nD SemeSter 2021–2022

GolD GeAr AwArDeeS

With the theme “Ang Pagsusumikap sa Buhay ang Magdadala sa Tagumpay,” Bulacan State University - Meneses Campus successfully presented its Gold Gear Awardees via Facebook live stream on July 14, 2022.

The Gold Gear Awards ceremony is held annually at Bulacan State University to recognize exceptional sophomore through senior-year students. The Office of Student Affairs is the body in charge of carrying out the rules and regulations governing the awards, such as President’s List and Dean’s List Awards under the Academic Award. The awarding ceremony also includes co-curricular and extracurricular accolades from reputable outside competitions and activities.

The Campus’ Dean Secretary, Dr. Marita R. Parobrob, presented her opening remarks. Dr. Parobrob went on to describe how external factors made the virtual environment a challenge that all staff and students had to conquer.

Dr. Reynaldo S. Naguit, the Chancellor for External Campuses, also warmly welcomed everyone via video. Dr. Naguit advised the students to maintain their passion as long as life is still giving them fresh experiences. The Vice Chancellor for External Campuses, Dr. Gerald C. Hilario, also addressed the students and discussed the challenges they faced in the academic year 2021–2022. He said, “The University extends its loving embrace to honorees for all that you have accomplished, like an appreciative mother.”

Dr. Cecilia Navasero-Gascon likewise appreciated the students and offered her gratitude as the program’s honorary speaker. The University President asked the students to continue to prosper and to always uphold their basic values as BulSUans as they go on to the next stage of their lives. Following the announcement of the winners, the program came to an end.

BulSu meneSeS CAmPuS PArtnerS with oCCiDentAl minDoro StAte univerSitY

programs through joint research, extension, resource exchange, sharing of best practices, and benchmarking activities that are aligned with the goals and objectives of both institutions.

Dr. Gascon expressed her gratitude in her speech, emphasizing that the BulSU community will be able to prosper in this rapidly changing world by utilizing technology to stay ahead and broaden the potentials, skills, ideas, and perspectives of both institutions’ stakeholders. This was also the first inter-university academic collaboration for BulSU - Meneses Campus since its inception in 2002.

Bulacan State University - Meneses Campus held a ceremony on Monday, March 28, 2022, at the BulSU Hostel to sign a formal agreement for academic collaboration with Occidental Mindoro State College.

Mr. Jude Glenn Bariento hosted the MOA signing attended by faculty and administrators from both universities, and Dr. Christina D. Vicencio led the prayer to officially kick off the program. Dr. Alberto J. Valenzuela, BulSU's Meneses Campus Dean, provided an introduction to the program before Dr. Christopher S. Vicencio shared the justification. Dr. Reynaldo S. Naguit, Chancellor for External Campuses, Dr. Teody C. San Andres, Executive Vice President, and Dr. Cecilia S. Gascon, University President, were present on behalf of the entire Bulacan State University community.

Meanwhile, Elbert C. Edaniol, the President of Occidental Mindoro State College, which will later become an official State University, emphasized possible team initiatives during his remarks and congratulated everyone on a successful ceremonial signing, as well as the BulSU community for hosting the event.

The primary goal of the academic partnership is to increase faculty and student exposure to a variety of

2nD StuDent reSeArCh Summit 2022 – externAl CAmPuSeS

Mary Grace G. Hermogenes

The 2nd Student Research Summit 2022 for external campuses held last May 18 was themed “Harmonizing Research Capabilities: Synergy for Excellence and Capacity Building.” Students from external campuses competed for the much-coveted titles of the Best Paper and the Best Presenter. Following the success of the 1st Student Research Summit held last April 18, the event was conducted online via zoom and was broadcast live at the Research and Innovation Office – External Campuses.

The program started with the welcome address from the Chancellor of the External Campuses, Dr. Reynaldo S. Naguit. After which, Dr. Teody San Andres, the Executive Vice-President gave his special message. The occasion was also graced by no less than the University President, Dr. Cecilia Navasero-Gascon who delivered inspiration to all attendees, especially the student research presenters.

The summit was divided into three (3) breakout sessions per cluster namely, ANIB-DAMPI which was moderated by Mr. Butch Stephen Duay, CRDU Head of Bustos Campus; YAMAN-Technology, with its moderator Engr. Albert Patrick David, the Campus Head for Faculty and Student Researches and the concurrent CRDU Head of Meneses Campus; and the YAMAN-Business cluster, facilitated by Mr. Jason O. Santos, CRDU Head of Sarmiento Campus.

Seven (7) research groups from various campuses in the ANIB-DAMPI Cluster presented their research papers. To ensure a fair decision in selecting the event’s winners, two experts from outside the BulSU Community and Dr. Romulo Mercado, Jr. from the CoED Main Campus were invited to serve on the panel. Sarmiento Campus’s research, “Investigating Fake News: A Stylistic-Based Analysis on Politically Deceptive News,” was named the BEST PAPER, and its presenter, Ms. Danilyn Y. Tenedero, received the BEST PRESENTER AWARD.

In the YAMAN-Technology Cluster, eight (8) groups presented their papers while two panel members outside BulSU together with Dr. Digna Evale from the CICT were given the task to be the panel members. They were introduced by Mr. Jay-Mar Luza, the CRDU Head of Hagonoy Campus.

The capstone project from Sarmiento Campus entitled “Travel Booking System for City of San Jose del Monte’’ was awarded the BEST PAPER AWARD and consequently, the one who presented such, Mr. Elren Troy Meshakh Lacson, received the title being BEST PRESENTER of the said category.

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Another group of student researchers from the YAMAN-Business Cluster presented their paper. Eight (8) research titles were scrutinized by Ms. Ruth Sealmoy, from the CBA together with two panel members outside the university. This time, Meneses Campus was able to get hold of the BEST PAPER AWARD entitled “E-Commerce and the Pandemic: An Analysis of the Buying Behaviour of Corporate Employees”, with its presenter, Ms. Lisette A. Quinto, who was also named the BEST PRESENTER.

As the event approached its end, Dr. Raquel C. Adriano, the Vice Chancellor for Instruction, Research and Extension for External Campuses delivered her closing remarks which was seconded by a message of thanks from Dr. Mary Grace G. Hermogenes, the Campus Director for Research and Innovation for External Campuses.

An All-new BulSu exPerienCe: ProJeCt mAnAGement offiCe AS ImPlementer of eDuCAtionAl InfrAStruCture ProGreSS

Anthony Miguel J. Soriano

Traversing through every campus of Bulacan State University may not be the same as it was eight years ago. The all-new BulSU Experience has been redefined: the gates have changed; skyscrapers are continuously erected; academic buildings are successively being refurbished; a brand new satellite campus has been founded; and, a sprawling 25-hectare main campus expansion is now underway. The University Core Values, SOAR BulSU, has been a conundrum to many until it was materialized through the awe-inspiring educational infrastructure projects. These came into implementation through the strong esprit-de-corps of the construction professionals from the Project Management Office (PMO) headed by its Deputy Director, Arch. Ma. Saturnina C. Parungao, fuap.

The start of 2022 marks the initial stages of new infrastructure projects and the turn over of much-awaited brand-new facilities. For the first two quarters, the PMO has been handling eighteen (18)

ongoing construction projects and completed four (4) new educational facilities across all BulSU campuses. The latter data include the all-new College of Law audio-visual-room (AVR), Meneses Campus Main Gate, Sarmiento Campus Infirmary, and Hagonoy Campus Classrooms repair. Meanwhile, BulSU Bustos Campus Administration Building is also nearing completion and turn over.

Among the eighteen ongoing projects, the most prominent one is the monolithic Bulacan State University E-Library that towers over the BulSU Main campus and immediate environs. The institutional giant is set to collectively house the entire academic resources of the University from all collegiate libraries including thesis and dissertation books, as well as Filipiniana and Bulacaniana collections. Apart from its variety of physical references, the E-Library is set to house...

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500 all-in-one computer units for global information technology access. This is taken further as the building is equipped with book chutes for convenient search, loan, and return of resources to and from any floor.

Furthermore, the BulSU E-Library will also house a number of facilities and amenities for a comfortable learning experience. Various facilities for small and large- scale assembly include a teleconference room, five (5) discussion rooms, two (2) audio-visual rooms (AVRs), a 132-seat conference hall, a 250-seat function hall, and a 260-seat theater. For its amenities, lounges, exhibition areas, a PWD Collection Room, and a coffee shop are all provided across its seven floors. In its entirety, the towering BulSU E-Library would be at the forefront of establishment for infrastructure progress and global recognition of the University.

As the year enters its second half, the PMO oversees the extensive development of the 25-hectare BulSU Main Campus 2 and the newly established San Rafael Campus. Campus 2 may still be long to be realized entirely, but three massive 5-storey buildings have been under construction. These include the Research Building, the Resource Management Building, and the new College of Engineering Building. The San Rafael Campus, at a glacial pace, has been established with the on-going construction of its grounds and the two massive 4-storey buildings that will house the future medical courses.

The BulSU Experience has, indeed, profoundly changed through the years. Perhaps, one can exquisitely notice it through the educational infrastructure progress that redefined the university’s landscape. Behind this progress, a group of professionals pledged excellent service to bring forth the end-users’ satisfaction and the attainment of learning in the 21st century. Truly, the collective action of the PMO personnel is a testament to the University’s Mission to produce highly competent, ethical, and serviceoriented professionals. The end-users, indeed, deserve no less.

Facade of the 7-storey E-Library.

Digital rendering of the BulSU Campus 2.

Sabay-Sabay tayong mag-duck, cover, and hold Sa pagtunog ng Sirena

Joseph Reynald C. Dela Cruz, CCSSM Executive Director, OSSDRM

In reference to the Memorandum issued by the NDRRMC regarding the schedule of the Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) for the 2nd quarter of CY 2022, the Bulacan State University joined and actively participated in the conduct of the NSED held last June 09, 2022.

Under the leadership of our University President, Dr. Cecilia S. Navasero-Gascon, the Office of Safety, Security and DRM (OSSDRM) successfully spearheaded the said activity, with the assistance of the National Service Training Program (NSTP) and the University Infirmary. Moreover, the full cooperation and participation of all students, faculty members, staff, and guests present in the BulSU Main Campus and the different external campuses have contributed greatly to the smooth flow of the implementation and conduct of the NSED exercises.

The Executive Director of OSSDRM, together with the NSTP Director, conducted the final briefing to the Security Personnel, NSTP Faculty, and the Infirmary staff. At about 0745h, the teams proceeded to their assigned areas and conducted the final dissemination of information and tasks to the building occupants within their area of responsibility (AOR).

At about 0800h, the online program started. Several personalities delivered their speeches and remarks such as DSWD Secretary Rolando Joselito Bautista, DILG Secretary Eduardo M. Año, and DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. At exactly 0900h during the online program, the ceremonial pressing of the button was carried out to signify the start of the NSED exercises. With the sound of the bell, all faculty members, staff of the different campuses, colleges, and offices, as well as the students and guests currently inside the university premises, performed the “Duck, Cover, and Hold”. After the one-minute bell, all participants were advised to return to their regular activities. The evacuation drills and the conduct of scenarios are still prohibited so as to prevent possible COVID-19 exposure.

The NSED allowed the participants to recognize their strengths and weaknesses, and at the same time, develop their skills to become more efficient and effective during an emergency situation. Likewise, the NSED motivated the participants to become vigilant and responsible in their role on disaster preparedness, particularly in an earthquake situation.

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BulSU Employees during the Nationwide Earthquake Drill.

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Providing a safe and secure environment for the students, faculty, and staff is of utmost importance to Bulacan State University. The OSSDRM will continue to provide information dissemination campaigns, seminars, workshop-trainings, and simulation drills related to safety, security and DRRM to increase the level of awareness of the students, faculty, and staff, thus enhancing their capability and individual competency.

Rest assured that the OSSDRM will perform its mandated duties and responsibilities to ensure the safety and security of the property, personnel, students, and guests of the university.

JfInex-SArmIento CAmPuS exPloreS the metAverSe

The Junior Financial Executives - Sarmiento Chapter (JFinEx-SC) launched its flagship event, “EXPLORE METAVERSE: Non-Fungible Tokens on the Blockchain,” on May 7, 2022, via Microsoft Teams and Facebook Live on the JFinEx-official SC’s FB Page.

Mr. JR De Silva, a credible resource speaker, led the discussion on “Introduction of NFT: Hype or Real?” while Mr. Kyle Jay Naron had an insightful discussion on the “Adoption of NFTs in the Philippines. EXPLORE METAVERSE aimed to educate participants on how nonfungible tokens work on the blockchain and provide advancement to individuals who want to explore NFTs in digital settings as they enter the Philippine investment options.

EXPLORE METAVERSE was sponsored by AL Clothing and Stole My Sole, and it was attended by students from the Bulacan State University - Sarmiento Campus as well as external partners such as the JFINEX of Bulacan State University - Malolos, the JFINEX of National University, the JFINEX of University of the East - Manila, and the Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (JPIA) of National College of Business and Arts - Taytay.

The JFinEx-SC is a college-based academic organization at Bulacan State University’s Sarmiento Campus. Every year, it provides students with activities and necessary measures to promote advancements in the field of business and finance, thereby molding great leaders for the future.

GolD GeAr AwArDS for hoSPitAlitY AnD touriSm mAnAGement 2022

Nichelle Brea

The BulSU CHTM Local Student Council held an Awarding Ceremony on July 22, 2022 via Zoom and Facebook Live for the Gold Gear Awards 2021- 2022. The purpose of the awarding ceremony was to recognize CHTM students who demonstrated their full potential by showing academic excellence in their respective fields.

The Chancellor of the Main Campus, Dr. Romeo DC. Inasoria, made the opening remarks. He congratulated all the students and stated that the university made every effort to maintain contact with the students of Bulacan State University during the pandemic. Apart from these honors, he reiterated that “good manners and right conduct are always required.”

The program continued with Dr. Teody San Andres’, the Executive Vice President, inspirational message for everyone. He shared that “Success is built on hard work, but hard work is useless if you’re not trying to focus. To be a champion, you must compete; to be a great champion, you must compete with the best; and to be the greatest champion, you must compete with yourself.”

The next speaker was our very own President, Dr. Cecilia S. Navasero Gascon. She imparted very inspiring words that surely emboldened the students to pursue their dreams in life. She also said that “Character is more important than any medals or certificates that you may have received”. She hoped that students would be more responsible by knowing how to distinguish facts from misinformation. She also mentioned that this pandemic is not a hindrance for us to continue our dreams hence we should never give up, no matter what.

The guest speaker was the Vice Mayor of Malolos City, Hon. Miguel Tengco Baustista. He talked about how they are doing their best to improve the tourism industry in Bulacan to showcase what we have in Bulacan like our heritage sites and natural attractions. It is with cooperation and unity that this endeavor would lead to a brighter future.

After the awarding of certificates for the Dean’s and President’s Lister, the program concluded with the closing remarks by our very own CHTM Dean, Dr. Aimee Grace M. Madlangbayan. She warmly congratulated everyone and reminded them that “being the best in academics is just one of the many achievements that you may attain in your life as a student. Your foundation remains in your values and life skills.” She reminded everyone that the achievements of the students will continue to be tested when they become part of the industry, especially for those who recently graduated. She ended her talk by challenging everyone: “Rise up, continue to be resilient, inclusive, sustainable, and engaging, for these will be your keys to your success in life.”

BulSu viSitS DoSt-AStI

Last March 31, 2022, members of the BIG-Data Lab (Bulacan Information System and Geo-data Laboratory), an R&D project for External Campuses dealing with emerging technologies initiated by Chancellor Naguit, were invited to a facility tour at DOST-ASTI Headquarters in Diliman, Quezon City. The activity aimed to further capacitate them in the science and technology field and to build a more robust partnership with the agency for the benefit of the faculty.

In this endeavor, DOST-ASTI experts presented and thoroughly explained to faculty visitors their past and current successful projects – namely PEDRO, DATOS, and COARE. The said initiative was enjoined by the Chancellor of External Campuses, Dr. Reynaldo S. Naguit, Vice Chancellor Dr. Raquel Adriano, and the Project Lead of BIG-Data Lab, Dr. Jayson Victoriano.

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Visitors from the BulSU-External campuses were given the opportunity to view the facility’s highperformance supercomputers during the tour.

DIlG ContinueS PArtnerShiP with BulSu thru leD4lGuS

After their successful partnership during the Module Training of Local Government Units (LGUs) in the Depart of the Interior and Local Government Region III’s (DILG III) LED4LGUs (Local Economic Development for Local Government Units) Project earlier in 2022, Bulacan State University (BulSU) and DILG decided to continue their partnership by giving the training a physical appearance in the form of a handbook.

The collaboration between BulSU and DILG began later in 2021 when the two parties signed a Memorandum of Agreement wherein BulSU will provide LED Training for the LGUs of Region III under the supervision of DILG III.

Regional Director Karl Caesar R. Rimando, CESO VI represented DILG III while Dr. Cecilia S. NavaseroGascon represented BulSU.

The long-term vision of the project is to create business-friendly, competitive, inclusive, and resilient local economies.

A total of 72 LGUs in Region participated in the training sessions jointly facilitated by BulSU and Local Government Capacity Development Division (LGCDD).

Following this, DILG III found it crucial to keep the ball rolling and decided to continue the partnership with BulSU by working together to put the training session into pages in order to have more platforms to better reach LGUs and aid in their respective local economic development.

The LED4LGUs Training Manual, as it shall be called, is set to be finished by the third quarter of 2022 and be released for use shortly after.

Left to right: BulSU Executive Director for External Relations Dr. Mary Ann P. Carranza, BulSU Deputy Director for External Linkages Dr. Remigio Musca, DILG Bulacan Director Darwin D. David, DILG III Asst. Regional Director Jay Timbreza, CESO III, DILG III Regional Director Karl Caesar Rimando CESO VI, and BulSU President Dr. Cecilia S. Navasero-Gascon at the MOA Signing on Dec. 1, 2021.

InStitutionAlizAtion of InternAtionAl enGliSh lAnGuAGe ProfiCienCY AnD QuAlifiCAtion ASSeSSment At BulACAn StAte univerSitY

Magdalena N. Soyosa, RN, MAN Dean, College of Nursing

Last April 28, 2022, Bulacan State University was awarded as an Assessment and Training Center by Leadership and Governance International Standards (LGIS). LGIS was sponsored by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). Through this recognition, BulSU can now benchmark international recognition among trainers and students.

This was participated by twenty-one (21) faculty and 500 students in different colleges and campuses who were recommended by the Deans and Campus Directors. Before the training, students and teachers underwent a Language Proficiency Test to determine their Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level. The test determines the level of proficiency of students thus identifying the baseline for a standardization program. It specifically provides information on the pre-training skill level of a learner as measured in the CEFR for languages in terms of his/her proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.

The implementation of the program began in the first week of January. The Get Ready to Train (GRTT) or Training for Trainers was first conducted which capacitated instructors on administering, and delivering the training and assessment using English language as a tool guide. This familiarized the nominated trainers with the use of language assessment score reports on speaking, writing, listening, and reading skills. The twenty-one (21) nominated trainers were then tasked to develop content training modules, and to support the conduct of training for learners to address identified gaps based on their pre-test results.

Trainers were given access to the LGIS Learning Management System (LMS) via bulsu.lgisportal.com. This access on the LGIS LMS portal helped BulSU Trainers accomplish their respective outputs which they eventually uploaded as their learning.

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The materials were retained in each Trainer’s Virtual Classroom in the LMS that served as a vital platform for both teachers and students to complete their training and assessment.

After 15 days of the trainer’s GRTT, the students’ English Proficiency training began. This actual student engagement where students’ level of English language proficiency has to be improved is the final requirement for the nominated trainers to complete their Test of English Proficiency Program (TEPP). Students were required to create their accounts in the LMS and enroll themselves in the virtual classroom. Training students was delivered online throughout the course, and to ensure learning continuity, students were given access to the LMS 24/7: 7 days a week for them to explore the universal classroom and the teacher’s virtual classroom at their own pace.

The students were given practice tests, assignments, and drills on the Online English Exam with the nine (9) test types. Emphasis was placed on the enhancement of skills and getting the students familiarized with the test taking strategies.

Students were also required to take their respective post-test after they had completed their assigned lessons and the learners’ outputs were verified by their respective trainers. The post-test emphasized the place on enhancement of skills and having the students be assessed with an internationally recognized English test aligned to CEFR (Common European Framework of References) and GSE (Global Scale of English). Trainers completed the training and output portfolio, which were successfully evaluated and entitled them as Registry Internationally Coded Trainers.

During the awarding ceremony there’s a special award for the trainers like Highest CEFR Score Writing skills, Speaking skills, Reading skills, Listening skills, Overall Highest Trainer or the Master Trainer, Best Virtual Classroom: Content, Best Virtual Classroom: Assessment, Best Virtual classroom: Visual, Leadership award, and President’s Award of Excellence. Finally, BulSU has got the ICT level results of the teachers- with one (1) Master Trainer, ten (10) Level 4 , five (5) Level 3, three (3) Level 2, and one (1) Level and for the students- 23 of them got C1 level.

This project is just the beginning of many projects for the Institutionalization of International English Language Proficiency and Qualification of BulSU.

BulSu heAlth ProtoColS for the lImIteD fACe-to-fACe ClASSeS

The following are the proposed BulSU Health Protocols for the Limited Face-to-Face Classes to ensure orderly and safe implementation:

General Guidelines

1. Only fully vaccinated students and faculty members will be allowed to participate in the Limited Face-to-Face classes.

2. A contact tracing app shall be provided at all entry points. All incoming employees/students/visitors are encouraged to scan the App before being allowed entry inside the campuses/offices.

3. The health status of participants will be monitored by filling out the Health Monitoring Form online weekly. (See Annex A).

4. After the security check, a physical inspection will be carried out by the infirmary staff before the student is allowed entry to the classroom. Students exhibiting symptoms will be escorted to the isolation room. (see Annex B) for further health assessment. No student with symptoms will be allowed to attend face-to- face classes.

5. Students are required to bring their own hygiene kit which contains alcohol/hand sanitizer, cleansing wipes/ tissue paper/hand towel, hand soap, and/or an extra face mask.

6. Students will only be allowed to enter the university within 1 hour before their scheduled class.

7. One Entry, One Exit Per Day Policy for Students will be implemented. Students will not be allowed to leave the campus premises between classes.

8. Immediately after dismissal, students must leave the university premises after their class.

9. Students are encouraged to bring their own packed meals.

Preventive Measures Before entry to the caMPus

• Signages on COVID-19 Safety Measures will be posted on the premises.

• A screening area will be put up at different points of entry for the following purposes:

1. ) Where the students and employees will be assessed for the following:

i. Proper wearing of face mask and/or face shield as per IATF requirement

ii. Body temperature check Individuals will NOT be allowed to enter the campus premises if they have a temperature of 37.5 C and above, even after a five-minute rest. He/She will be temporarily placed in an isolation room (see Annex B) for further management and disposition.

iii. Students exhibiting symptoms within the day will be escorted to the isolation room (see Annex B) for further health assessment and treatment.

• Students and employees must:

1.) Sanitize both hands with alcohol spray or thru hand washing

2.) Washing stations are provided at entry/exit gates and strategically located areas within the designated buildings.

3.) Disinfect shoes using the provided foot bath.

4.) Observe physical distancing of at least 1.5 meters.

Preventive Measures Inside the caMPus/BuildinG

• Signages/visual reminders on proper hand washing, coughing etiquette, and other hygienic practices will be visibly posted on conspicuous areas such as classrooms, comfort rooms, library, canteen, and other similar areas.

• Face mask must be properly worn at all times, except when eating/drinking

• A physical distance of at least 1.5 meters will be strictly implemented.

• Disinfection of work surfaces, rooms and other similar areas will be conducted before and after every class.

• Properly labeled trash bins will be placed strategically in designated areas. Yellow – infectious (face mask, face shields, tissue) Green – Biodegradable Black – Non-Biodegradable

• The Infirmary shall conduct periodic monitoring of the classroom to ensure minimum health standard is being observed.

• Faculty shall ensure that proper health protocols are being observed inside the classroom.

• Designated classrooms shall have adequate ventilation

ManaGeMent of PossiBle Positive cases

• An isolation room (see Annex B) will be created for persons with COVID-19 symptoms. Individuals who develop COVID-19 symptoms while on the school premises will be immediately transferred to the isolation room.

• Parents or guardians will be informed of their condition.

• Proper coordination with LGU for further management and transfer to home or health facility.

ManaGeMent and contact tracinG Measures for susPected and/or confirMed Positive cases

• All close contact of a confirmed positive case will be required to undergo a quarantine period as per DOH/IATF guidelines.

• Daily monitoring thru Teleconsultation for the duration of their quarantine period.

• Face-to-face classes will continue after completing contact tracing, disinfection activities and quarantine period for the confirmed and suspected cases.

InforMation disseMination

• Mandatory orientation on existing Health Protocols of the University will be conducted before the start of the limited face to face classes.

• All students will have access to Teleconsultation services using these platforms:

1. Malolos Campus – fbpage: @bulsuclinicmain

2. Bustos Campus – fbpage: @bulsubustosclinic

3. Hagonoy Campus – fbpage: @bulsuhcclinic

4. Meneses Campus – fbpage: @bulsumenesesclinic

5. Sarmiento Campus – fbpage: @bulsu-infirmary-sarmiento

Annex A

StuDent DAIlY heAlth DISCloSure form

Annex B

ISolAtIon room for InDIvIDuAlS wIth SYmPtomS

When students, faculty, and non-academic personnel develop symptoms while on school premises, they shall be immediately transferred to an isolation room for observation while waiting to be transferred to their home or to a health facility. This isolation room shall have the following features:

1. The isolation room is with adequate ventilation and a self-closing door, if possible.

2. There is a single bed for the individual to rest while waiting to be transported.

3. The isolation room is near a comfort room that is solely dedicated for the use of symptomatic students, faculty, and staff.

4. The isolation room has easy access to the exit gate to efficiently facilitate the immediate transport of the symptomatic student, faculty, or staff to limit his or her exposure to others and to avoid contaminating additional school areas.

5. There is also a foot-operated, hands-free sanitizer or alcohol dispenser.

6. There are dedicated trash bins and cleaning and disinfection materials for the isolation room.

editorial Board

Tricia P. Ompoc, DPA Editor-in-Chief

Dyan Grace O. Crespo, LPT, MAE Associate Editor

BulSU Offices and Colleges

Writer/Contributor

Marjorie M. Miguel, LPT, MAE

Language Editor

Mary Ann P. Carranza, DBA Assoc. Prof. Joseph Roy Celestino

Laura Llarena Advisers

Genher D. Cruz

Layout Artist

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They were also ushered around to see the facility’s operations in tracking the current satellites in orbit, and the sensors DOST-ASTI has placed in various locations throughout the Philippines. The DOST-ASTI team also generously answered their questions allowing them, the BulSU team, to be more inspired in their own projects.

To end the tour, the DOST-ASTI and BulSUExternal Campuses also took the chance to talk about their future partnerships and linkages between the two institutions which ended on a positive note.

ACADemiC CAlenDAr A.Y. 2022-2023