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The

BUzzette AN EXECUTIVE NEWSLETTER

Bicol University, Legazpi City Telefax No. (052) 480-0167 www.bicol-u.edu.ph

AUGUST 2020 | Vol. XII Issue 8

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ISSN 2094-3991

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PRESIDENT’S OUTBOX

elcome to Bicol University, my dear Freshmen! You have now entered a new and exciting phase of your life. You are leaving behind all the familiar things of your childhood and teenage years. You are entering a world where your character, discipline, and intellect will be further developed and challenged. With the threat of COVID19 and the continuing spread of this pandemic, the beginning of your college years is marked by challenges that has changed the way we conduct our educational process. We are at the moment crafting a teaching and learning environment that would be suitable and adapted to the new normal. We have long envisioned the reality of Distance Education and Flexible Learning even before COVID19 caught us unaware. But it has forced us to finally come to terms with the urgency of these delivery modes of learning. This requires optimum patience and understanding on everyone’s part as all of us are adjusting to this new reality. But we assure you, my dear Freshmen – the newest members of the Bicol University family, we are ready with our health protocols and preventive measures to ensure the safety of every client and personnel who entrusts their lives and future to Bicol University. Here at Bicol University, we make sure that you imbibe the core values of Character, Leadership, Scholarship, and Service as you live your life within the confines of this great academic institution. You have been doubly blessed because you have chosen Bicol University – the premier University in the Bicol Region that offers quality tertiary education – that by virtue of Republic Act 10931, Pres Outbox | P8

News | P3 Mascariñas: Not safe to resume face-to-face classes this academic year

Developing Ways - (L-R) : Atty. Daryl A. Redoblado, Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, AKB Rep. Elizaldy S. Co and DICT Engr. Antonio Bonganay during the grand launching ceremony for the “Tech4Ed Center” at Embarcadero de Legazpi Activity Center last August 27, 2020.

BU to receive free WiFi access, 16 computer sets - AKB, DICT B icol University (BU) will receive free WiFi access exclusive to students and teachers for distance learning according to Ako Bicol (AKB) party-list Representative Zaldy Co during the ceremonial turnover and launching of Technology for Education (TECH4ED) program at the Embarcadero de Legazpi last August 27, 2020. “Since President Duterte decided to postpone face-to-face classes until a vaccine against COVID-19 becomes available, we’re finding ways to help students and teachers overcome the myriad challenges of distance learning,” Co said. In partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), AKB Rep. Co said that other state universities and colleges including

far-flung areas in Bicol will also benefit from the said project. “Tayo po ay nakikipag-ugnayan na sa DICT upang maisakatuparan ang proyektong ito dahil mahalaga ang computers dahil ito’y bahagi ng online learning ng mga mag-aaral at guro,” as written on Co’s Facebook account. On the other hand, Co also said that the TECH4ED project aims teach citizens on the use of new technology and also help them find possible jobs online. BU, along with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Rapu Rapu and Victory Village of Legazpi City, received 16 new computer sets as part of the partnership between AKB and DICT mentioned on a Facebook post by Rep. Zaldy Co.

National NGOs declare CSSP student Torrenueva winner in virtual extemp speaking; 2nd in impromptu

s part of the celebration of the International Youth Day 2020, Bicol University (BU) College of Social Sciences and Philosophy (CSSP) 3rd year student Sydney Joseph Torrenueva won 1st place during a national virtual extemporaneous speaking competition spearheaded by Borres Youth Leadership Institute (BYLI) Inc. via Zoom conference and Facebook Live last August 22, 2020. BYLI Inc. is a non-stock, non-profit organization of dynamic volunteers and young professionals. Since 2010, BYLI Inc. has started to conduct various youth and professionals development programs and has

Feature | P4-5 BU, Diocese of Legazpi signs MOA – delivery of flexible learning materials

inspired 10,000 student and youth leaders and professionals from different municipalities, cities, schools, colleges, and universities in the country. While attending a previous webinar conducted by BYLI Inc., participants were encouraged to join a virtual competition on extemporaneous speaking according to Torrenueva. “I joined the competition since I want to continually hone my speaking skills,” he said. Along with 18 other participants, they were given different topics on social issues. As second presenter, Torrenueva was given the topic on the passage Torrenueva | P2

News | P7 BU pursues international ties with Rajagiri India amidst pandemic; virtual GBA signing held

The BUzzette

NEWS

O ve r 4 0 0 s t u d e n t s a t r i s k o f l o s i n g s c h o l a r s h i p s d u e t o ‘p a s s a l l p o l i c y ’ At least 424 college students are at risk of losing their scholarships due to the ‘pass all’ policy implemented by 17 schools during the coronavirus pandemic. In a statement released by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), it called on the heads of the schools to provide numerical grades to the students to allow them to still claim benefits under the CHED Merit Scholarship Program (CMSP). Under the ‘pass all’ policy, students will receive passing mark in lieu of numeric grades. The higher education institutions (HEIs) which opted to mass promote its students are Saint Mary’s University, Bataan Heroes Memorial College, De La Salle University – Dasmariñas, STI College Rosario, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Cavite State University, Mary Help of Christians CollegeSalesians Sisters Inc., Ateneo de Naga University, Partido College, Pili Capital College, Inc., Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology, University of the Philippines-Visayas, Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology, Mindanao State UniversityNaawan, Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Sta. Mesa, Manila, University of Baguio, and Mindanao State University – Marawi respectively. During the height of the massive call for mass promotion, CHED Chairman Prospero De Vera III already warned that

Torrenueva | P1 of Anti-Terrorism Law. “I think my edge was definitely my convincing and spontaneous delivery. Further, I focused on the reality while I think the others were romanticizing their topics. I have also attended webinars related on the Anti-Terrorism Law that’s why I was able to speak confidently,” Torrenueva answered when asked about his edge against the other participants. He also won 2nd place during a virtual impromptu speaking contest headed by Positive Youth Development Network (PYDN) in celebration of the Philippine Independence Day via Zoom conference and Facebook Live last June 12, 2020. PYDN is a Philippine’s pioneering youth development and accrediting network dedicated to build strong, socially-aware, and sustainable youth organizations responsive

students aspiring for Latin honors, and those maintaining scholarships, or entering graduate studies, stand at a disadvantage should the ‘pass all policy’ be implemented in their schools. “The problem was caused by HEIs (higher education institutions) who did a ‘pass all’ policy in their 2nd semester. I made it very clear in CHED announcements that while the grading system of HEIs are determined and exercised by individual HEIs in the exercise of their academic freedom, any decision to adopt a ‘pass all’ policy must ensure that the interests of individual students are not compromised,” De Vera III said. Unlike its Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) and Tulong Dunong sholarship grants, academic performance is the basis for students to be given CMSP. Under this program, students have to maintain a general weighted average of at least 85% or its equivalent to qualify as full scholars or 80% or its equivalent if they are not under a full scholarship program. “Applicants are ranked based on their Grade Point Average and those with the highest grades get the merit scholarship. If the HEIs will not give them numeric grades, what will be the basis to determine if the students will get financial assistance from the government?” De Vera asked. It can be recalled that early in April, Bicol University issued Administrative Order

91, which turned down the mass promotion scheme, encouraging its faculty members instead to exercise leniency in giving grades to students. The AO specifically outlined the guidelines by which faculty members can give a final grade to students. Among these are the computation of the final grade if there is sufficient basis prior to the lockdown, and adoption of the midterm grade as final grade. Faculty members were also advised not to give a failing mark based on the midterm rating; and to exhaust all measures to reach out to students should they incur a conditional grade (4.0). A special provision is also given to students who would incur an INC mark. “We have around 450 CHED Merit scholars and more or less 300 Department of Science and Technology (DOST) scholars, excluding those merit scholars from other government agencies. While we understand the sentiment of those batting for mass promotion, we deemed it wise to turn down the ‘pass all’ policy because we know the negative repercussions of this action on our students. As the premiere state university in the region, we stand true to our commitment to uphold academic rigour with compassion in this time of uncertainty,” Mascariῆas said. The deadline given to schools to submit the numeric grades to CHED’s regional offices for evaluation is on October 30, 2020.

to the evolving needs and opportunities of the country. After winning the elimination round consisting of 85 participants, Torrenueva made it to the nationals as presenter number eight out of 10 finalists. Representing BU, two set of questions were given to each finalist. Since impromptu speech needs to be delivered immediately after reading the question, Torrenueva was able to deliver his piece in a maximum of three minutes.

won 2nd place out of a pool of 85 equally great speakers,” Torrenueva shared. Both NGOs were supported by the National Youth Commission (NYC). Since the community quarantine, Torrenueva has been attending various webinars on sustainable development goals, youth empowerment, and human rights. It can be recalled that Torrenueva was the 2019 University Outstanding Student in Scholarship and the 2020 Outstanding Student of BUCSSP in Academic Excellence. Currently, he is the Chancellor of the Order of the Blue Feather Society, an honor society of BU, where the BU President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas is the Grand Chancellor He is also involved in various student organizations within and outside BU.

His first speech was how to explain to a 10-year old child the current political situation of the Philippines and the second was how to help pursue and sustain Philippine Independence. “After reading the questions, I have no time to think as we were expected to deliver our speech in three minutes. The adrenaline rush overtook me and with God’s grace, I

AN EXECUTIVE NEWSLETTER EDITORIAL BOARD Editor-in-Chief Dr. Renelyn E. Bautista Associate Editor Gladys S. Serafica Circulation Manager Mary Ann M. See & Julie M. Isaac Layout Artist Cherry Grace H. Calisin News Writer Arnold C. Noda Photographer Cherry Grace H. Calisin Contributors Jose Joseph Ongonion & Nomer Marco Editorial Consultants Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan & Dr. Reina O. Habalo Overall Consultant/Publisher Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas

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The BUzzette

NEWS

Mascariñas: Not safe to resume face-to-face classes this academic year D

uring the first day of the University Capability Building on Flexible Learning last July 13, Bicol University President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas articulated in his discussion that face-toface classes are not safe to continue this academic year. BU President Mascariñas presented “Learning the New Normal: Adapting to the Challenges of COVID-19 Pandemic,” where he stated the purpose and significance of the training and talked about the threat and uncertainty of the current situation to the continuity of delivering quality education. The training workshop ran for eight days through teleconferencing via Google meet and Zoom meeting. In the morning, the Training Management Team and a pool of resource persons provided talk on topics related to flexible learning. While in the afternoon, workshops conducted at the college, institute, or department levels to revise syllabi and write course guides and modules. As the country faces the global pandemic, BU President Mascariñas furthered on the concerns and challenges faced by the students, faculty and staff, and the administration. To further understand the students’ situation, BU President Mascariñas presented data such as categories according to access to the internet, geographic location, e-learning platforms students are familiar with, access and skills using technology, and student’s attitude towards e-learning. To change the teacher mindset, BU President Mascariñas continued the discussion with the faculty’s data on the skills of using technology as well as their attitude towards e-learning. While presenting data on COVID-19 progression in the Philippines and its nationwide and regional cases, BU President Mascariñas said that it is not safe to resume face-to-face classes. “With this reality, it is simply not safe to go back to our classrooms; to resume face-to-face delivery at the start of the academic year,” he said. BU President Mascariñas also said that BU cannot assure to return to the traditional mode of learning until the

end of the first semester; prioritizing the safety of the faculty, staff, and students of BU. “We cannot also say that we can go back to the traditional mode, as many of you would prefer, towards the later part of the semester. The safety and security of personnel and students is our primordial concern,” he added. BU President Mascariñas addressed the faculty members that they needed to adapt to the new normal of flexible learning delivery. He also appealed to the faculty members to attend the training workshop on flexible learning instead of conducting their own training. This is to ensure that each faculty member will have a uniform grounding on the basic concepts and principles of flexible learning.

nge Agents for Social Transformation and Development.

In order to adapt to the new normal, the training workshop’s objective is to prepare the faculty members and officials for the opening of classes this August. At the last day of the capability building on flexible learning, July 22, 2020, a closing program commenced via Google meet. After the opening prayer, welcome remarks was delivered by the hosts, resource persons, and facilitators assigned per cluster. To make the program interactive, each cluster had one participant who talked about their impressions on the training workshop. Afterwards, BU President Mascariñas delivered his message followed by the presentation of certificates of the TMT, resource persons, and participants. The program concluded with the singing of the BU Hymn.

FEAT

The BU

BU, Diocese of Legazpi signs MOA – delivery of flexible learning materials

ith the intention to W forge collaboration and partnership mechanisms with

other stakeholders to ensure the safe, timely, and significant delivery of learning amidst the COVID19 pandemic, Bicol University (BU) partners with the Diocese of Legazpi during the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing on Engaging the Diocese for Flexible Learning Delivery at the Ricardo A. Arcilla Conference Room last August 7, 2020. From the coordination meeting last July 23, the MOA will engage the assistance of the parishes as a hub for delivery of flexible learning materials to help BU and its students. This partnership allows BU to utilize the parishes and chapels of the respective 15 municipalities and three cities covering the 47 parishes to be a channel or conduit where students can be allotted a space to access net connectivity to download lessons, do research or have modules be photocopied, and for parishes with no or slow net connectivity as drop-off points where students can access the modules. Establishing linkages with the Local Government Units (LGUs) and Local Government Agencies (LGAs) were also explored. Initial meetings have been made in line with the MOA and the access to the Veritas’ “School on Air” platform.

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TURE

Uzzette

Hand - (L-R): Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan, Dr. Arnulfo M. MascariĂąas, Bishop Fr. Joel Z. Baylon, Rev. Fr. Laurence C. Bringino and Rev. Fr. Rex Paul B. Arjona during the MOA signing on g the Diocese for Flexible Learning Delivery at the Ricardo A. Arcilla Conference Room last August 7, 2020

f the coordination meeting n appeal to the Bishop to the other two dioceses of gon and Masbate to likewise d assistance to BU students hose provinces. th strict observation of social cing, the MOA signing was ed by BU Communication ublic Relations Office (CPRO) or Dr. Renelyn E. Bautista. program commenced with vocation from Presidential

Management Office (PMO) Chief Dr. Reina O. Habalo followed by the welcome remarks by the newly appointed BU Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan. A brief background of the MOA signing was discussed by Dr. Renelyn E. Bautista followed by the messages from the Diocese of Legazpi Bishop Fr. Joel Z. Baylon and BU President Arnulfo M. MascariĂąas.

After the MOA signing, the closing remarks and ways forward was delivered by Rev. Fr. Rex Paul B. Arjona. Rev. Fr. Laurence C. Bringino, Chancellor-Secretary served as witness to the MOA signing for the Diocese of Legazpi and Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan for Bicol University. The entire proceedings of the MOA signing was live streamed at the Facebook page of Bicol University.

background photo from https://www.7sixty.com/equip-office-computers.asp

ge Agents for Social Transformation and Development.

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NEWS

FRESHtival: BUCS spearheads online orientation, welcome party

icol University College of Science (BUCS) College Student Council (CSC) spearheaded an online freshmen orientation and welcome party via Facebook live last August 23, 2020. The onset implementation of online classes in BU did not prohibit the CSC officers led by Cyrus Christian Lee, along with the CS administration, from making it possible for the first year students to experience what the college has to offer through a pioneer activity dubbed as “FRESHtival”. Bannering the theme “Sinugdanan: Embracing the New Normal”, students were able to catch a glimpse of the College Based Organizations, Publication, and University Based Organizations through a comprehensive presentation of all the opportunities currently available in the university. Aside from the freshmen orientation, the welcome party was also able to commence through sub-events like the Virtual College Tour, Online Bingo, ‘Let’s Go Quizzical’, Ask Any Buddy, ‘Triviyuuuuuh Oh Yeah: Quiz Bee’, and Leave a Kindat Challenge. In the earlier part of the event, Dean of BUCS Prof. Jocelyn E. Serrano explained that despite CS having been established on the year 2004, science programs were already within the university from the oldest degree program, Bachelor

of Science (BS) in Biology, to the most recent undergraduate program, BS Meteorology which was established last Academic Year 2018-2019. In 2015 BUCS also offered two MS degree programs MS in Biology under the Dept. of Biology and Master in Information Systems under the Dept. of Computer Science and Information Technology. Serrano also added that BUCS, as the nucleus of the university in science and technology, is ready to gear up its students to become the future professionals of their respective fields. “I welcome you all to the school year 2020-2021 facing a new normal, a challenge that besets us, your professors and the learners as well. But rest assured that the college of science is here to guide you, to nurture, to make you happy, and to make you feel at home though we are in a virtual world.” Serrano said in her welcome remarks. Meanwhile, BUCS Associate Dean Dr. Lany Maceda expressed that within the college, ‘we are family’. “... and as family, you can always bear in mind the African proverb, that if you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” Maceda added. Currently, the FRESHtival is the second major event of the BUCS CSC officers, and like the previous event, it favorably concluded with a success,

gaining positive feedbacks from the students. Gian Carlo Bausing, first year BS Meteorology said that the freshtival was highly interactive among senior students and frosh. He added that it proves that there is little to no barrier between generation of CSians. “Madami po ako natutunan sa campus freshtival. Sa orientation po such yung different courses inside the campus and their roles in the society, the different clubs and organizations and yung importance po ng campus publication. Yung “let’s get quizical” po puno ng trivia and andami pong natutunan as the game progressed” Bausing said. Welcome party and orientation were included in the events that were decided to be taken in a virtual platform considering the new normalcy. “YES! It’s has been a part of the CSian culture to welcome freshmen with open arms and this pandemic will not stop us from doing so.” Lee said on an interview with Scientia. According to Lee, they are still planning for the events this first semester. He added that they are carefully and strategically thinking relevant activities that will be catered to all the students of BUCS. (Jose Joseph Ongonion, Nomer Marco)

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Strengthening Ties - Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas during the virtual signing of General Bilateral Agreements on International Cooperation and Inception Meeting with Rajagiri Business School and the autonomous Rajagiri College of Social Sciences in India on August 28, 2020 at 2:30 PM (Philippine Standard Time) 12:00 NN (India Standard Time) via Zoom.

BU pursues international ties with Rajagiri India amidst pandemic; virtual GBA signing held

n its pursuit of strengthening international ties amidst the inconveniences brought by the COVID19 pandemic, Bicol University initiated the first virtual signing of the General Bilateral Agreements on International Cooperation and Inception Meeting with Rajagiri Business School and the autonomous Rajagiri College of Social Sciences in India on August 28, 2020 at 2:30 PM (Philippine Standard Time) 12:00 NN (India Standard Time) via Zoom. Headed by the President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, with Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan, VicePresident for Academic Affairs, Dr. Dimson M. Rivero, Director of International Relations Office, Atty. Joseph L. Bartolata, VicePresident for Administration and Finance, Dr. Luis O. Amano, Vice-President for Research Development and Extension, Dr. Eddie S. See, Dean of BU College of Business, Economics and

Management and Atty. Alex B. Nepomuceno, Dean of BU College of Social Sciences and Philosophy and other key officials of Bicol University participated in the virtual engagement. The partner schools’ provosts and counterpart were Dr. Binoy Joseph, Principal of Rajagiri College of Social Sciences, Dr. Sunil Puliyakot, Director of Rajagiri Business School, Fr. Prof. Francis Sebastian, Asst. Director of Rajagiri Valley Campus, Sr. Dr. Lizy P J, Dean of Rajagiri College of Social Sciences, Prof. Angela Susan Mathew, Dean of Rajagiri Business School andMr. Pramodh U Korula, Coordinator of Office of International Relations, Rajagiri Valley Campus. The formal agreement aims to promote international cooperation in research and education and development of exchange programs to foster common understanding between parties. Specifically, the agreement includes the exchange of faculty,

e Agents for Social Transformation and Development.

researchers, administrative staff and students, development of double or dual degree programs, exchange of academic information, documentation materials, researches, and publications, development of joint research programs and creation /organization of other joint initiatives. Officials of the collaborating institutions signed the copy of the documents from their end and presented them to each other online. During the inception meeting, initial plans were laidout by the concerned deans and heads particularly in the priority disciplines along business and social sciences. With the deal sealed virtually on both ends, Bicol University once again proves that it remains steadfast in its goal of realizing its vision of a world-class university - something not even a pandemic could stop. (Abigail Jo M. Abainza/IRO)

Official Statement of the Bicol University President on the COVID19-related Incident To our Bicol University family, stakeholders, partners, and the general public: We would like to clarify certain allegations that have been making rounds in the social media and other virtual chat groups regarding a member of the team from one of our service providers who tested positive for COVID19. The team from our service provider was given clearance by the City Health Office before they were allowed to enter the Bicol University premises as attested by the local coordinator of the service provider. They were also advised, as attested by their local coordinator, to stay within Bicol University in lieu of a hotel. The matter was also referred to our University Physician, Dr. Julio Abainza, who also recommended giving the service provider access to the University premises on condition that strict extra precautionary measures be observed. The recommendation was relayed to the local coordinator emphasizing that strict protocol measures be observed and to coordinate with concerned officials of the college/university. The four (4) personnel underwent rapid test for COVID19 and a swab test as part of the service provider’s company policy. The results were negative; thus, they were allowed to travel. But upon reaching Legazpi City, they were required to go to the Ibalong Centrum for Recreation (ICR) for the usual protocol measure. The meeting yesterday (August 10) at the Office of the

President has nothing to do with any prior knowledge of the COVID19 contamination of one of the members of the team from the service provider. The meeting was on the proposal to adopt online admission system for next school year to ensure the safety of all examinees and faculty members, of which the Information Communication and Technology Office (ICTO) will have direct involvement. As with every meeting in Bicol University from the start of this pandemic until now, strict health protocols and measures are followed from wearing of face masks, face shields, to social distancing of at least two meters. Further, the team from the service providers for the entire duration of their stay, have never been to the Office of the President. Likewise, these personnel from our service provider willingly submitted themselves to strict health protocols prior to their entry to Bicol University as opposed to allegations. Upon the recommendation of the Bicol University COVID19 Task Force, the ICTO employees with primary contact with the COVID positive shall undergo home quarantine for 14 days unless the City Government of Legazpi requires that they be placed under the LGU supervised quarantine facility such as the Ibalong Centrum for Recreation (ICR) or a duly accredited private hotel. They shall be required to undergo swab testing on the 8th day after exposure. Further, the ICTO employees with secondary contact are advised to be on work from home

arrangement for 14 days and are further advised to report to their Barangay Health Emergency Response. They are also advised to do daily monitoring of their body temperature. Should there be any manifestation of COVID-19 symptoms, they are advised to automatically contact either the local health authorities or the BU Medical Services. Other BU personnel and stakeholders who may have secondary contact are also advised to undertake the same measures as previously stated. All the facilities and buildings in the College of Science and College of Nursing have been immediately disinfected and shall be closed for three (3) days, along with the BU Dormitory. As a consequence, transactions in the offices and with all personnel in these buildings have been cancelled and all personnel/staff have been advised to work from home. We are in the eye of a pandemic. The safety and security of our personnel, students, and stakeholders remains our top priority and mitigation measures are currently being undertaken. We appeal to the Bicol University family, particularly our students, faculty, and personnel, including our stakeholders, partners, and the general public to refrain from spreading half-truths and innuendos that can only heighten the effect of fear, undue anxiety, and misinformation. Let us continue praying for the safety and protection of everyone; most especially those afflicted with the COVID19.

moments and memories in all the nooks and corners of this great University. As your President and surrogate father, I welcome you all as official members, to the Bicol University Family! Let us heal as one nation, and one Bicol University family. Stay safe, my dear Freshmen! In spite of what’s happening in the world today, you will always have a bright future and home, in Bicol University! Guided by our vision of a “world-class University producing leaders and change agents for social transformation and development” we endeavor to mold each of you into productive and responsible scholars who would one day become leaders with the passion for change and service in your respective fields. With the great privilege and blessing of a Bicol University education, you too, must be aware at this early stage in your student’s life, of the great responsibility that comes with this privilege. To whom much is given, much is expected. Along with your mentors and professors,

we hope you will rise up to the challenge of using the quality education that Bicol University can provide to become quality students who later on will exemplify the Core Values of Bicol University. Enjoy the moment and savor the advantage of being a member of the Bicol University family. Make the most of your stay here and create wonderful moments and memories in all the nooks and corners of this great University. As your President and surrogate father, I welcome you all as official members, to the Bicol University Family! Let us heal as one nation, and one Bicol University family. Stay safe, my dear Freshmen! In spite of what’s happening in the world today, you will always have a bright future and home, in Bicol University!

Pres Outbox | P1 allows each one of you, access to free tertiary education. Guided by our vision of a “world-class University producing leaders and change agents for social transformation and development” we endeavor to mold each of you into productive and responsible scholars who would one day become leaders with the passion for change and service in your respective fields. With the great privilege and blessing of a Bicol University education, you too, must be aware at this early stage in your student’s life, of the great responsibility that comes with this privilege. To whom much is given, much is expected. Along with your mentors and professors, we hope you will rise up to the challenge of using the quality education that Bicol University can provide to become quality students who later on will exemplify the Core Values of Bicol University. Enjoy the moment and savor the advantage of being a member of the Bicol University family. Make the most of your stay here and create wonderful