August 2022 BUzette

PRESIDENT’S OUTBOX

USAID meets BU officials; grants study on helping ALS Completers

Today, as I stand before you for the last time as your President, I stand with nothing but a sense of gratitude for the many manifold blessings that are products of our collective steadfastness, patience, perseverance, and resiliency, as one Bicol University community. I stand as an academic leader grateful for the faith we share and the trust you have all unwaveringly given to my Administration, even as we sailed through the many shocks and stresses together as one family and one University. As I look back at my Presidency, I am wrapped in nostalgia and wistfulness; recalling the many trails we have blazed and the countless challenges we have hurdled as one Bicol University family. My dear graduates, go where you are celebrated. Go where your ideas will bear fruit. Go where you can serve better. But never abandon those who reject you or have a different path than you. Build a better world for all – and include them still in your dreams; in your vision, of a better future beyond what we have now. Empower each one with the gift of greater resiliency. Ignore the cancel culture that has been so predominant in the social media, especially in the virtual world. If you believe in a Higher Being or a Higher Purpose, then, you will know deep in your heart; if you truly listen “with the ear of your heart,” – then you will know, that even in diversity, there can be unity – that rejection, and hate is, as you millennials say it – “not cool.” This is part of building a resilient nature – a strong and resilient character.

In its continued championship to strengthen the role of higher education institutions (HEIs) in support to the outof-school youth (OSY), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) officially announced its support to award the USAID O2 grant last May 2022 for the study in helping ALS Completers in their career.

On August 23, a meeting between BU officials and the United States Government officials, with the USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program coordinators and USAID ABC+ Program coordinator, was held at the Conference Room, Ricardo A. Arcilla building at the university, to further discuss the support for the OSY as well as blueprints in achieving jobs, trainings, or small business for the youth.

For BU, representatives were led by BU President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas; Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan, VP for Academic Affairs; Dr. Eddie S. See, VP for Planning and Development; Dr. Jonathan Arroco, Dean of the College of Industrial Technology; Dr. Dimson M. Rivero, Director of the International Relations Office; Dr. John Mark Mayor, Associate Dean of the College of Education; and Dr. Thaddeus Livica, Director of the National Service Training Program (NSTP),

On the other hand, the US Government attendees were Dr. Thomas LeBlanc, Director of the Office of Education, USAID/ Philippines; Jennifer Crow, Director of the

Regional Office of Acquisition and Assistance, USAID/Philippines; and Mirshariff Tillah, Senior Education Adviser, Office of Education, USAID/Philippines.

For the USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program, present were Dr. David Hall, Chief of Party, Education Development Center; Carlo Fernando, Lead Higher Education Coordinator, EDC; and Mark Harris Lim, Youth Development Team Lead, EDC. Meanwhile, the USAID ABC+ Program, present were also Lorina Aquino, Chief of Party, Research Triangle Institute; Jodie Stefano, Director of Governance; and Melanie Sebial, Regional Manager.

A plaque of commendation was awarded by the USAID O2 to BU as a strong pillar and one of the founding members of the Legazpi City Youth Development Alliance, as well as for its continuing championship of youth development in the city.

It can be recalled that an EDC-BUNSTP collaboration for the Higher-Level Education or Training Readiness Orientation (HERO) was inked last March 15, 2022. This program has trained 35 students as HERO Student Volunteers and they were able to produce 90 Alternative Learning System (ALS) Completers. As an extension of the project, the USAID O2 was granted to help the completers in determining their skills, or train them for entrepreneurial experience or achieve employment in the future.

Dost-BU collabs for S & T research through MOA

To ease travel for BUeños, USC launches ‘BU Libreng Sakay’

Aspart of the Agapay BUeño program by the Bicol University (BU) – University Student Council (USC) and in coordination with the local and provincial Local Government Units (LGUs) of Albay, the ‘BU Libreng Sakay’ began its operation on August 15, 2022.

The designated vehicles will fetch bonafide BUeños in the municipality of Polangui, Oas, Ligao City, Guinobatan, Camalig, and Daraga. In addition, BUeños from the 1st district of will also benefit in this program particularly from Tab-

aco City, Malilipot, Bacacay, and Sto. Domingo, including the 2nd district in barangay Lidong, Padang, Bigaa, Arimbay, and Rawis. Furthermore, free rides will also be available from Rawis to Daraga Campus and UST-Legazpi to Daraga Campus.

The program will only run until Friday, August 19, 2022. BU personnel and staff may also avail the Libreng Sakay provided that they must present an identification. Specific times and schedules will be strictly followed.

CGAD kicks off mid-year assessment, planning workshop

In its goal to mainstream gender equality principles and perspectives in instruction, student services, research, and extension, the Bicol University Center for Gender and Development (BUCGAD) held a threeday planning workshop for the Mid-Year Assessment and Planning Workshop at the Gamboa’s Orchard, Malilipot, Albay, on August 10 to 12, 2022.

The activity was participated by the CGAD coordinators across the university headed by the BUCGAD Director – Dr. Noel R. Rafer. The coordinators also presented their college’s/unit’s accomplishment, performances, and milestones relevant to the Gender and Development program as of January to June 2022.

After the opening program, an opening remarks was delivered BUCGAD Director Dr. Rafer, followed by an inspirational message from BU President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas. After a short health break, Prof. Gretchen B. Millena, CGAD Research and Development staff, presented the program flow and needed outputs, and updates on BUCGAD accomplishment report.

On the other hand, Prof. Amabella A. De Luna, CGAD Community Extension Staff, delivered the updates on the BUCGAD Gender Responsive Extension Programs. The program continued on the presentation of GAD Output for the first half of the year.

Furthermore, the presentations continued until the Planning of GAD Output for the remaining calendar year was discussed as well as the finalization of GAD modules and GAD extension proposals.

All Aboard - In coordination with local and provincial government units, the University Student Council launch ‘BU Libreng Sakay’ to ease commuting burdens.

For Equality - Dr. Arnulfo Mascariñas, Dr. Noel Rafer, and Center for Gender and Development (CGAD) coordinators attend a three-day planning workshop from August 10 to 12, 2022 at Gamboa’s Orchard.

BSBI bldg. management now in Diocese of Legazpi; MOA signing, official turnover, held

Through a ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing, the Bicol Small Business Foundation, Inc. (BSBI) building’s management, administration, and maintenance was formally transferred to the Diocese of Legazpi on August 3, 2022, to establish an Interfaith Center. The agreement was based on the original MOA which expired in 2017. Before it ended, a fiveyear extension period was authorized that should finish in 2023, hence the turnover ceremony. The three-story building includes the Catholic Chapel, Bicol University (BU) Campus Ministry Organization (CMO) office and service centers for other related functions, Diocesan Youth Commission Office, and the Chaplain’s Office.

To guarantee inclusion in the spirit of ecumenism, a space within the building will be designated as an “Interfaith Hub,” which will be used for worship, events, and other activities relating to spiritual affairs and other related concerns of

the members of other religious denominations and faith groups along with the BU community, stakeholders, and partners.

As an arm of the Roman Catholic Bishop of Legazpi Inc. (RCBLI), the Diocese of Legazpi will support BU-CMO in its mission of providing youth formation and development. The promotion of an environment of peace and ecumenism among various religions and faith groups that allow for ecumenical dialogue and the unrestricted expression of religious beliefs and practices was one of the top priorities identified.

In addition, a priest will be assigned to minister the University’s Catholic population. The priest may also be an affiliate to teach his field of expertise such as Philosophy or Ethics. The MOA is effective for a period of 10 years, subject to renewal of the agreement.

The MOA signing ceremony was attended by the BU officials headed by BU President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, VP for Academic Affairs Dr.

Amelia A. Dorosan, Legal Officer Atty. Daryl B. Redoblado, Campus Ministry adviser Dr. Norma Ll. Magdato, and BSBI President Dr. Ofelia S. Vega (retired).

For the RCBLI representatives, present were Bishop of Legazpi, His Excellency Bishop Joel Z. Baylon; Diocese of Legazpi Chancellor Rev. Fr. Laurence C. Bringino; Diocesan Commission on Youth, Commission Head Rev. Fr. Teody John A. Camba; Member’s Development Services Spiritual Director Rev. Fr. Rafael Don B. Sambajon; Commission Head on Temporalities Rev. Fr. Jose E. Lobrigo represented by Arch. Ana M. Lorilla of Bicol University.

Dr. Renelyn E. Bautista, BU Communication and Public Relations Office Director, served as the programme facilitator. The program was conducted face-to-face, observing minimum health and safety protocols, and livestreamed through the university’s and diocese’s Facebook pages.

BU to act as Accredited Cooperative Training Provider for CDA trainees

In the promotion of advocacy and development of cooperatives in the education system, a Memorandum of Agreement was sealed between Bicol University (BU) and the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) on August 16, 2022.

Pursuant to Article 44 and Section 5 of Rule 7 of the Implementing Rules and Regulation of Republic Act No. 9520, otherwise known as the Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008, the MOA will require cooperative officers to undergo necessary training conducted by BU as training institution duly accredited by the authority.

This will also prescribe the “New Guidelines on the Accreditation and Monitoring of Cooperative Training Providers (CTPROs), based on CDA Memorandum Circular No. 2022-11. At

least 24 hours of Training of Trainers (ToT) for cooperative training providers.”

As a state-supported institution, BU shall gear its programs to national, regional, or local development plans, and exemplify a scholarly leadership. Through this partnership, a standard curriculum for ToT will be developed and formulate guidelines to operationalize the agreement.

Present in the MOA signing were CDA Regional Director, Salvador V. Valeroso, with the Assistant Regional Director, Gracia P. Layosa, BU President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, and BU Center for Policy Studies and Development Director, Prof. Elmer A. Lorenzana.

This project will be valid for a period of five years and may be renewed upon agreement.

In Good Hands - Dr. Arnulfo Mascariñas, Dr. Ofelia Vega, Atty. Daryl Redoblado, Arch. Ana Lorilla, His Excellency Bishop Joel Baylon, other Bicol University officials, and Roman Catholic Bishop of Legazpi Inc. representatives attend the Memorandum of Agreement signing for the turnover of the Bicol Small Business Foundation, Inc. Building’s management.

CO-OPeration - Dr. Arnulfo Mascariñas, and Cooperative Development Authority Regional Director Salvador Valeroso sign a Memorandum of Agreement to provide Training of Trainers,

Through the Bicol University International Relations Office, three BU students are bound to an international student exchange program, with full scholarship and credit transfer.

Summer Jan Forrest Untalan is currently a 3rd year student from the College of Arts and Letters taking AB

Communication. He will undergo the exchange program on the

Global Korea Scholarship at Dongseo University, South Korea. He has departed from the Philippines on the last week of August and will begin his study from September to December 2022. Meanwhile, Francheska Iubelle Perez, a graduating student taking BS Business Administration Major in Management in the College of Business, Economics, and Management, and John Olan Gomez, a 3rd year student taking BS Computer Science in the

College of Science, will both undergo the Youth Elite Exchange Program under the New Southbound Policy International Study Program at National Quemoy University, Taiwan. The pair will leave the country on the 2nd week of September and they are expected to finish the student exchange program on January 2023. Good luck and safe travels! | by Arnold C. Noda

Foreign students from AFS to do cultural immersion at ILS-HS

Three foreign students from the AFS program will undergo cultural immersion at the BU College of Education Integrated Laboratory School (BUCEILS) High School, as part of the internationalization thrust of Bicol University (BU), in coordination with the International Relations Office. The three foreign students – Yuika Ayata from Japan, Asia Ciaffardoni and Rebecca Locci from Italy, were formally welcomed by the university administration during their Flag Raising Ceremony at the BU Founder’s Park on August 8, 2022.

Through the AFS intercultural programs, foreign students are expected to immerse in cultural integration, and therefore the scholars must also learn the Filipino language and attend Philippine History classes.

They will attend the Grade 12 Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) strand of the BU College of Education Integrated Laboratory School (BUCEILS) under the supervision of Mrs. Joyce L. Madrideo. This academic year, the university plans to implement the Blended Learning Modality

combining face-to-face and online classes as adaptation to the new normal.

It can be recalled that BU has also welcomed Elena Falavigna from Italy, who was the first foreign student in the course of the pandemic. She arrived last January 31, 2022 and completed the program on June 13, 2022.

Furthermore, Ciaffardoni is expected to finish the program on September 10, 2022. Meanwhile, Locci will leave on September 23, 2022. Ayata’s program, on the other hand, will end on May 23, 2023.

2 State U benchmark best practices in BU

Toimprove and rediscover their existing services or programs, the Batangas State University (BatStateU) and the Eastern Samar State University (ESSU) conducted a benchmarking activity at Bicol University (BU) on August 18, 2022.

A presentation and open forum for BU and BatStateU was held at the BU Amphitheater, Aquilino P. Bonto Building. With its trademark as the National Engineering University of the country, BatStateU plans to establish the Academic Building Rapport and Institutional Development Goals through Inclusive kNowledge Generation (BRIDGING). This serves as a platform to enhance the caliber of various academic programs, encourage industry and higher education engagement for capacity building,

research partnerships, and the sharing of best practices.

BatStateU discovered BU’s internationalization program, presented by Dr. Dimson M. Rivero, BU International Relations Office Director. A forum on procurement, bids and awards, as well as the innovation of the Fabrication Laboratory was also discussed.

Present were some BU officials led by VP for Academic Affairs, Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan, VP for Research, Development, and Extension, Dr. Luis O. Amano, along with other officials and faculty members from the College of Industrial Technology, College of Engineering, Polangui Campus, Procurement Management Office, Office of Student Affairs and Services, Institute of Architecture, and other involve

offices/academic units.

On the other hand, the Human Resource Management and Development Office (HRMDO) hosted a short program at the Conference Room, Ricardo A. Arcilla building, for the ESSU benchmarking.

As part of their Lakbay-Aral activity, the meeting discussed best practices of the Administrative Department including the HRMDO, Accounting Office, Budget Office, Library Services, Supply Office, University Registrar’s Office, procurement, Bids and Awards committee, and Guidance Office, where representatives from each office were present for an open dialogue.

Afterwards, ESSU personnel visited the said offices to immerse themselves in the services of the university.

Observe To Improve - Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan, Dr Luis O. Amano, along with other officials, and faculty members meet Batangas State University, and Eastern Samar State University for the two state university’s benchmarking.

A Warm Welcome - Yuika Ayata, Asia Ciaffardoni, and Rebecca Locci through the American Field Service (AFS) will undergo a cultural immersion at the Bicol University College of Education Integrated Laboratory School. The three students will attend the Grade 12 Humanities and Social Sciences strand under Mrs. Joyce Madrideo.

BUCE produces modules on Literacy Development, Teaching Beginning Reading

Recognizing the link between pre-service and in-service teaching, Florida State University (FSU), in partnership with Bicol University (BU) and West Visayas State University (WVSU) and with support from USAID, Department of Education, and RTI International, provided technical support to the Bachelor in Elementary Education (BEED) and Bachelor in Early Childhood Education (BECED) teachers in the enhancement of Literacy Development and Teaching Beginning Reading syllabi, the production of corresponding modules, and the enrichment of teaching faculty capacity in the use of these modules.

Dr. Marion Feshmire, Dr. Ana Helga Marty, Dr. Adrienne Barnes, and Ms. Kate Schell, four faculty research experts from Florida State University, spearheaded the project.

The module development was conceptualized as a face-to-face endeavor that started in 2019 following the MOA between the two universities under BU’s internationalization program. However, due to the restrictions brought by the pandemic, the mentors and module writers had to resort to zoom meetings and managed to bridge the

time difference between the Philippines and the United States.

With technical assistance from the FSU professors, Dr. Norilyn O. De Chavez, Prof. Milyn G. Lleva, Prof. Annabelle Arena, Prof. Creslita G. Antonio, and Prof. Katrin Lourdes P. Torre, the module on Literacy Development was created.

On the other hand, the Teaching Beginning Reading module was written by Prof. Apple N. Rubio, Prof. Julie Ann B. Yanto, Dr. Norilyn O. De Chavez, Prof. Milyn G. Lleva, Prof. Annabelle A. Arena, and Prof. Stephanie N. Despabiladeras. The modules produced were pilot-tested by some of the module writers themselves in the second semester of SY 2021-2022 at the BUCE.

Based on the feedback from the faculty/module writers, providing activities for vocabulary development proved to be the most challenging; hence, Dr. Ana H. Marty provided a one-day capacity building for the teachers through a Vocabulary and Reading Comprehension Instruction workshop.

Prior to this endeavor, Dr. Marty met with BU President Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, for a courtesy visit. Dr. Mascariñas lauded the efforts of the faculty module

writers and expressed his interest in having the work replicated in the other courses. The capacity-building activity took place last August 5, 2022, at the BUCE Training Hall, which was attended by all the teachers in the Early and Late Childhood Education Department.

With the modules done, ABC+ organized the Preservice Dissemination Activity, during which the sponsors and FSU research professors formally handed over the finalized course modules and materials to the partner state universities on August 1112, 2022, at the Alpha Suites in Makati City, Manila.

The module writers shared their experiences in developing and pilot testing the modules with the representatives from DepEd, CHED, and other teacher education institutions. Dr. Lorna Miña, Dean of BUCE, Dr. Ma. Teresa M. Abainza, former BUCE Associate Dean, and Prof. Miles G. Lleva, program adviser of ELC, also shared the college’s plans to sustain the gains from the work accomplished. One of the module writers from Bicol University, Prof. Julie Ann B. Yanto, co-hosted the event | byMa.Teresa Abainza

Leveling Up Learning- Dr. Lorna Miña, Dr. Ma. Teresa Abainza, and Prof. Miles Lleva provide support to teachers in Bachelor in Elementary Education and teachers in Early Childhood Education in enhancing the literacy development and teaching beginning reading syllabi in a project spearheaded by faculty researchers from Florida State U.

BU joins Multi-Sector Governance Council

In its objective to define the implementation, reporting, and monitoring mechanisms of the Performance Governance System (PGS) integrated with other management systems, Bicol University, through its president, Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, signed the Memorandum of Understanding signifying the institution’s membership to the MultiSector Governance Council (MSGC) on August 25, 2022.

BU, along with 12 other agencies and institutions, will be part of the key external stakeholders that will establish a solid scheme and pursue sustainable initiatives to recognize the vision of the implementing agency – Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center (BRHMC), formerly known as Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital (BRTTH).

On May 14, 2021, a virtual conference was held to formalize the inauguration and establishment of MSGC. The members of the council are: Dir. Ernie V. Vera, MSGC Chairperson and Regional Director of the Department of Health Bicol – Center for Health and Development; Atty. Daisy P. Bragais, MSGC Co-Chairperson for Internal Affairs and Regional Director of the Civil Service Commission V; Dr. Nathaniel B. Rempillo, MSGC Co-Chairperson and the Provincial Health Officer of the Provincial Health Office – Albay; Dir. Arwin O. Razo, Regional Director of the Department of Social Welfare and Development; Dir. Claudio L.Yucot, Regional Director of the Office of Civil Defense; Dr.

Jacinto Blas V. Mantaring, Chairman of the Philippine Health Research Ethic Network; Engr. Virgilio C. Eduarte, Regional Director of the Department of Public Works and Highways V; Dir. Agnes M. Espinas-Tolentino, Regional Director of the National Economic and Development Authority V; Dir. Maria Angelita C. Cells, Regional Director of the Department of Budget and Management V; Mr. Henry V. Almanon, Regional Vice President of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation; Dr. Ma. Teresa G. De Alban, Governor of the Philippine Nurses Association V; and Dr. Eric

Raymond N. Raborar, Medical Center Chief of the BRHMC.

In addition to engaging in pertinent PGS activities, this partnership will meet to discuss ongoing contributions to the BRHMC strategy and provide substantive advice for progressing forward, attend matters pertaining to the BRHMC strategic position and the realization of its mission and vision, and provide assistance and support in terms of resources, manpower, and other service that will be to the mutual benefit of both parties.

‘Home of the Champions’ – BUIPESR launches weekly radio program on Albay Broadcasting Network

To deliver the latest trends in physical education, sports, fitness, wellness, and recreation, Bicol University Institute of Physical Education, Sports, and Recreation (BUIPESR) launched their weekly radio program at the Albay Broadcasting Network (ABN) on August 15, 2022.

Present during the launching program were BUIPESR Director, Prof. Carina L. Sales, with her faculty members, Prof. Arianne Mae Arevalo, Prof. Grace Velasco, and Prof. Bret Ian Esquillo. They discussed and promoted the existing and new programs of the institute, as well as their upcoming events.

Dubbed as the ‘Home of Champions’, Prof.

Sales presented BUIPESR as experts in sports, physical education, dance, and recreation. She added that the institute is now venturing into the world of fitness.

The panel also discussed the new Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Sciences program which branches in two majors: Fitness and Sports Coaching; and Fitness and Sports Management.

Prof. Carina elaborated the difference between the two majors. She explained that in the Fitness and Sports Management graduates has the capacity to hold events, manage fitness gyms, sports offices, tournaments, and the like.

Conversely, graduates with a major in Fitness and Sports Coaching might work as fitness instructors, sports trainers, or coaches. She also said that it is allowed if the graduate has the capacity to work in two disciplines.

Furthermore, they also discussed the differences and similarities of the programs the IPESR offers. Currently, there are 15 regular faculty members in the institute with 32 part timers, according to its Director.

The BUIPESR radio program will be shown weekly, every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at the ABN platforms.

A United Front - Dr. Arnulfo Mascariñas, with 12 other agencies and institutions sign a Memorandum of Understanding that signifies the Bicol University’s memebership in the Multi-Sector Governance Council on August 25, 2022.