February 2019 BUzzette

The

FEBRUARY 2019 | Vol. XI Issue 2

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BUzzette AN EXECUTIVE NEWSLETTER

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

ISSN 2094-3991

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Dr. Mascariñas takes second oath of office as BU’s President W

itnessed by his family, friends, colleagues, and those who belonged to the university he vowed to serve, Bicol University’s eighth president Dr. Arnulfo Mateum Mascariñas took his oath of office for his second term as BU’s SUC President IV, in a ceremony held at Saint Gregory the Great Cathedral in Legazpi City this February 13.

It can be recalled that after meticulous evaluation last November 2018, Dr. Mascariñas was confirmed for his second term as SUC President IV of Bicol University.

In a Special Board Meeting on November 29 at the CHED Main Office in Quezon City, the Evaluation Committee officially announced their decision of confirming the re-appointment of Dr. Mascariñas. According to the committee, Dr. Mascariñas has proven qualified and worthy for the SUC President IV position based on (1) leadership and governance, (2) linkages, networking and partnerships, (3) sustainability of operations, and (4) special accomplishments.

In the special day of his oath-taking (which was also Dr. Mascariñas birthday), officials, faculty members, personnel and students gathered at Saint Gregory the Great Cathedral to bear witness to Dr. Mascariñas’ official resumption of duty as the man in the

News | P6

Four BU-CBEM programs pass AACCUP Level 3 accreditation

university’s helm.

The university president’s beloved wife Prof. Jane Mascariñas, his immediate and extended family was also present in the said occasion. Showing their full support in Dr. Mascariñas’ continued service as the BU President, local government leaders like Legazpi City Mayor Noel E. Rosal and Albay 3rd Congressional District Representative Fernando V. Gonzales also joined the gathering.

Before the oath-taking ceremony, a Thanksgiving Mass was first celebrated, headed by Msgr. Ramon Tronqued. The mass began with a processional by guests, Bicol University officials, and faculty members, most of whom are wearing BU’s symbolic alampay.

After the mass, the oath taking ceremony officially began with messages of salutation for the President. Those present during the occasion were welcomed by BU Vice President for Administration and Finance (VPAF) Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan in her opening speech.

She was then succeeded by the delivery of the salutations that were given by BU Union of Faculty Association Incorporated (BUUFAI) President Dr. Maria Jocelyn J. Paje representing the faculty, University Student

Editorial | P2

Roadmap to Academic Excellence

Council (USC) Chairperson Brian Mitchell dela Rama representing the student body, BU Association of Non-Teaching Staff (BUANTS) President Mr. Salvador R. Bilono representing the non-teaching personnel, BU Alumni Association President Mr. Edgar S. Barrameda for the alumni, and Philippine Union of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) Region V President Dr. Dulce F. Atian for the partner stakeholders.

BU Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Helen M. Llenaresas narrated the life and the many achievements of Dr. Mascariñas during the official “Presentation of the President”. Next, the Chief of the BU Administration Services Division and Secretary of the BU Board of Regents Atty. Norly P. Reyes read the Diploma of Appointment and presented the diploma and President’s Mace to Dr. Mascariñas.

Afterwards, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Regional Office 5 Director Freddie T. Bernal headed the imposition of the Academic Medallion and administered the oath of office to Dr. Mascariñas.

Dr. Mascariñas was then given the opportunity to address those present in the even during his President’s Address. In his speech, Dr. Mascariñas BU President | P8

Feature | P4

Thanksgiving and Oathtaking Ceremonies

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The BUzzette

NEWS EDITORIAL

Roadmap to Academic Excellence

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our years ago, President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, enjoined the Bicol University (BU) family to embrace his bold vision to transform BU into a “world-class university producing leaders and change agents for social transformation and development.” Early in his term, this vision found expression in his various plans and programs anchored on six strategic options: promoting responsive academic governance, enhancing the resource endowment of the university, offering marketdriven and relevant academic programs, strengthening the foundation for RD&E, developing a critical mass of top students and outstanding faculty member, and upgrading and modernizing physical/infrastructure facilities.

In pursuit of the university’s three-fold mandate along instruction, research and extension, the President’s agenda in his first term centered on achieving academic and operational excellence, and strengthening its financial capacity.

As he embarks on a second term, President Mascariñas has gotten off to a good start by putting forward a comprehensive plan that sees the welfare of the BU personnel at the forefront of his ten-point agenda. Vowing to sustain the gains, while “breaking new grounds and building more milestones,” his message during the Thanksgiving and Oath taking ceremonies last February 13, 2019, is just the perfect message to rally the whole BU family to support his roadmap for academic excellence in the next four years.

It does not take a genius, however, to realize that while the President’s ten-point agenda is downright optimistic, it is also grounded in reality.

In fact, the President’s agenda is anchored on solid ground as it builds on the organizational and structural reforms that he has instituted in his first term. To put it simply, the seeds have been sown. That is why; his agenda on promoting personnel development as well as his plans to continuously modernize and upgrade its facilities, improve the University’s financial capacity, and institute policy innovations in

response to the evolving environment, are highly achievable given his sterling track record.

One only needs to see his showcase projects to understand this point.

What is also laudable is the fact that while the ten-point agenda is attuned to the needs and interests of the University, it is also responsive to the changing demands of the educational landscape. His plans geared towards strengthening BU’s academic programs and internationalization strategies, as well as its community engagement and industry partnership, are strategically aligned with the vision of the University to achieve the highest SUC level, thereby, becoming a “world-class” university. In this age where higher education institutions are called upon to respond better to national and global needs, BU’s brand of education ensures that graduates are one step ahead of their peers when it comes to finding a career.

But perhaps the greatest strength of his ten-point agenda lies in its capacity to foresee and anticipate the needs of the University.

Cognizant that there would be a gaping hole in the leadership landscape with the impending

retirement of almost 40 faculty members in the next four years, the President is poised to devise a strategic human resource development plan to cushion its adverse impact on the University.

In the same light, his agenda to build a worldclass Integrated Security System, and promote the holistic well-being and wellness of the BU personnel as they are the “true wealth of Bicol University’s thriving academic community,” are reflective of his desire to build a legacy that goes beyond fond memories as it has the power to ripple far beyond his tenure as a BU President.

As Bicol University’s golden boy, President Mascariñas knows very well that “resting on the glories” that the University has achieved would only “invite complacency and mediocrity.”

This realization, suffice it to say, works as an inspiration that enables him to dream big dreams for the University, and a reminder that compels him to humbly acknowledge that there is still much left to be done. So while turning the University’s vision into reality might seem like an optimistic goal, it is nonetheless grounded in reality. With the President’s strong leadership skills and the full support of its personnel, the future is bright for Bicol University.

AN EXECUTIVE NEWSLETTER EDITORIAL BOARD Editor-in-Chief Dr. Renelyn E. Bautista Associate Editor Gladys S. Serafica Circulation Manager Mary Ann M. See Layout Artist Patrick M. Pablo Writer Julius Justino B. Embile Photographer Elizabeth Jemly M. Baliguat Editorial Consultants Dr. Helen M. Llenaresas & Dr. Reina O. Habalo Overall Consultant/Publisher Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas

A World-Class University Producing Leaders and Chan

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The BUzzette

NEWS Training on RA 9184 IRR conducted as BU decentralizes BAC

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o ensure efficient and responsive delivery of services in line with the move to decentralize the procurement process across the University, members of the Cluster Bids and Awards Committee (BAC), Technical Working Group (TWG), and BAC Secretariats of Bicol University attended the Training-Workshop on the 2016 Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 9184, at the La Venezia Hotel in Legazpi City, last February 13 to 16.

This four-day training was organized by the BU Human Resource Management and Development Office (HRMDO), in relation to Administrative Order 07 and Office Memorandum 27 (series of 2019) issued by the Office of the University President.

With the shift to annual cashbased appropriations, a need to fast track the procurement process to be able to effectively respond to the end-users’ needs and satisfy the University’s obligations to its suppliers and service providers on time. Thus, it

CHED, Bicol’s HEIs gather to discuss updates in curriculum for AY 2019-2020

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BAC Secretariats of Bicol University attended the Training-Workshop on the 2016 Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 9184, at the La Venezia Hotel in Legazpi City, last February 13 to 16.

was concluded that there is a need to decentralize the procurement process to the campuses and administrative clusters, in order for procure goods, services, and infrastructure projects to be made on time, and contractual obligations and disbursing payments be done within the allowable period.

The decentralization of procurement process is anchored on Section 11 of the 2016 Revised IRR of RA 9184, which provides that “as may be deemed fit by the head of the procuring entity, there may be separate BACs where the number and complexity of the items to be procured so warrant” and “similar BACs for decentralized and lower level offices may be formed when deemed necessary by the head of the procuring entity.”

In relation to this, four Cluster BACs were created for the BU’s main campus colleges, with the research, development and extension (RD&E) having its own BAC. Cluster RA 9184 | P7

Bicol’s public administrators gather for the ‘First Meet-up of Public Admin Practitioners’ Lorenzo Daraga, Albay.

Organized by the Bicol University Graduate School (BUGS) and the Jesse M. Robredo Institute of Governance and Development (BUJMRIDG), in cooperation with the Council of Deans for Criminology Education of Region 5 (CODCRIM 5), the meeting aims to organize the public administration practitioners, academe and students of the region in pursuit of professional Bicol University Graduate School (BUGS) and the Jesse M. Robredo development.

Institute of Governance and Development (BUJMRIDG), in cooperation The meeting began with BU College with the Council of Deans for Criminology Education of Region 5 (CODCRIM 5) gathered respected public admistrators for the First Meet-up of Public of Social Sciences and Philosophy (BUAdministration Practitioners and Contributors held at Casa Lorenzo, CSSP) Dean Atty. Alex B. Nepomuceno, Daraga, Albay last February 20. who welcomed the participants of the ith the theme: “Beyond Diversities: Come event in his opening message. After his in One Accord and Share Ideas and message, the participants were then Practices for a Better Public Administration”, introduced by BUJMRIDG Associate respected public administrators across the Director Dr. Ramesis M. Lorino.

Bicol region gathered this 20 February 2019 Afterwards, CODCRIM 5 President for the First Meet-up of Public Administration Mr. Augustin C. Camo and Commission Practitioners and Contributors, held at Casa on Higher Public Admin | P7

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nge Agents for Social Transformation and Development.

pdating the knowledge of concerned departments of higher education institutions (HEI) regarding creation and implementation of their curricula, representatives of various private and state universities and colleges of the Bicol Region gathered in Bicol University East Campus in Legazpi City for the ‘General Assembly and Conference on the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Memorandum Orders (CMO) for Higher Education Curricular Programs’ this February 01, 2019.

Themed “Preparing HEIs for AY 2019-2020 with the New CMOs for Higher Education Curricular Programs”, the said gathering was held at the BU-BRFICC Hall and was organized by the Council of Deans and Department Chairs of Colleges of Arts and Sciences (CODDCCAS) Incorporated.

It served as an avenue to clarify details regarding changes in their curriculum implementation, particularly on the issue of new curricula to adapt to the K to 12 program.

During the said event, authorities from CHED discussed the guidelines in curricular implementation based on the original law and new CHED CMOs. As the topic focuses more in the changes in applied sciences, pure sciences, humanities and communication programs, Bicol University was represented by the heads of the College of Social Sciences and Philosophy (BU-CSSP), including CSSP Dean Atty. Alex Nepomuceno, and the College of Arts and Letters (BU-CAL).

At the start of the assembly, the HEI representatives in attendance were welcomed by CODDCCAS-V President and Dean of Ateneo de Naga University’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) Dr. Digna M. Paner-Alba in her opening message and explained the intent and purpose of the conference.

To provide an in-depth understanding on CHED’s General Policy updates, as well as updates specific to Humanities and Communication (HUCOM) academic programs, and its prospects for 2019n onwards, the latest CHED CMOs were discussed in details by CHED-ROV Education Specialists II Atty. Christian Rivero and Dr. Jean Salalima-Go. After the discussion of the resource persons from CHED-ROV, the representatives of Bicol region’s HEIs were given the chance to ask their questions during the open forum. Among the points raised in the forum was the offering of recently updated Filipino subject in college. The CHED officers also shed light on the Student Internship Program in the Philippines (SIPP).

FEAT

The BU

Thanksgiving ang Oathtaking Ceremonies of Dr

It is the possibility of sharing your dreams and vision and collectively charting your course that led us – the Bicol University family – into four challenging, yet fruitful years of strategic academic governance that showed us sustaining gains achieved by the previous administrations, and building milestones.

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am deeply humbled by the magnanimous support of the Bicol University family, who blessed me, with a chance to continue my vision as the re-appointed 8th President of Bicol University. The excellent mark given by the Evaluation Committee is a validation of all our collective efforts in transforming Bicol University into “a world-class University producing leaders and change agents for social transformation and development.” My outstanding rating is not mine alone. My validation is your validation too; of your collective contributions and efforts borne by sleepless nights in accomplishing the numerous demands of our jobs which redound to helping our beloved Bicol University achieve a level of excellence. It has made me realize that though our vision is lofty, it is achievable. It is possible.

I share my accomplishments with deep gratitude to the

many men and women who have collaboratively worked in achieving productive partnerships that has redound to sustaining gains and building milestones with your trust and confidence in my leadership, I have been given another demanding four years with varied and more challenging expectations. When I reviewed the six strategic options of my first term, it was reflective of organizational and structural options grounded on building a strong and sustainable academic governance. The foundation has been laid. But I strongly believe that this step has instituted the milestones. We have set the gains. But we need to break new grounds and build more milestones.

To say that the best has come is inviting complacency and mediocrity; even as in retrospect the difference that four years of our strategic academic governance, has been seen and felt. But I do not intend to rest on the glories that we have collectively achieved; for even if the signs of one of the best times for Bicol University are highly visible, there is a long and arduous way to go in the quest for our vision of “a world-class university producing leaders and change agents for social transformation and development” by achieving the highest SUC level. With my steadfast commitment to breaking barriers that are hindrances

to realizing the full poten holistically crafted the di the next four years with m At the forefront of my of the BU personnel whic wealth of Bicol University’s Thus, we are directed tow well-being and wellnes resource is the most impo Hence, we have to prom wellness of our teaching a keep them motivated and motivated and productiv the attainment of organiz Likewise, we intend leadership landscape of t almost 40 faculty membe in the next four years (201 legacy of new leaders to s research, extension, and a highly qualified applicants and implementing a h program for newly-hired

A World-Class University Producing Leaders and Chang

TURE

Uzzette

r. Arnulfo Mateum MascariĂąas

ntial of Bicol University, I have irection of Bicol University for my 10-point agenda. y 10-point agenda is the welfare ch I fully recognize as the true ’s thriving academic community. wards (1) promoting the holistic ss of the personnel. Human ortant asset of any organization. mote the holistic well-being and and non-teaching personnel to d enhance their productivity. A ve human resource is crucial in zational goals and objectives. d to fill the gaping hole in the the university to be left by the ers who are projected to retire 19-2023) through (2) building a sustain the gains in instruction, academic governance by hiring s along the field of specialization human resource development d faculty members as well as

considering junior faculty members with academic rank of at least assistant professor as understudy for management positions. To explore new pedagogies and promote gender-sensitive and inclusive education, we envision (3) creating new pathways for responsive, relevant, and transformative academic programs that will further strengthen the University’s instruction mandate. Along these lines, (4) building the BU Innovation and Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Hub will ensure life-long and relevant learning by serving as open innovation platform for technical collaboration with industry. My plan is to intensify extension activities for (5) building sustainable and resilient communities by adopting selected local communities as partners and convergence point for the various development efforts of the University.

In the next four years, I foresee BU aggressively pursuing (6) internationalization for a borderless and world-class education by offering flagship programs through admission of qualified international students to selected academic programs of the

ge Agents for Social Transformation and Development.

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The BUzzette

UP-IESM visits BUCS; conducts training for BS Meteorology faculty and students

F Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) Accreditation Survey Visit (Level 3 Phase 2) held at the BU-CBEM’s Entrepreneurship Hall in the BU Daraga Campus last 25 February 2019.

Four BU-CBEM programs pass AACCUP Level 3 accreditation

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nother major contribution for Bicol University’s growth was once again given by the BU College of Business, Economics and Management (CBEM) as four of the college’s degree programs successfully passed their recently concluded Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) Accreditation Survey Visit (Level 3 Phase 2).

During the exit program for the said survey visit, held at the BU-CBEM’s Entrepreneurship Hall in the BU Daraga Campus last 25 February 2019, the AACCUP Survey Team announced the attainment of Level 3 accreditation for the Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Bachelor of Science in Management, Bachelor of Science in Accountancy, and Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship programs.

The said AACCUP Accreditation Survey Visit is the second phase of CBEM’s third survey (for Level 3). Each academic program under review was assigned a survey team, under the guidance of AACCUP Coordinator Dr. Manuel T. Corpus.

The team assigned for the Bachelor of Arts in Economics program was led by Dr. Manolito C. Manuel of Pangasinan State University (PngSU), and is composed of Dr. Narciso F. Castro of PangSU and Dr. Manuel T. Corpus of AACCUP. The same three accreditors also reviewed the Bachelor of Science in Accountancy, but it was Dr. Castro who took the lead for the said program.

For the Bachelor of Science in Management program, the survey team in composed of Dr. Jennifer G. Fronda of Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST), Dr. Maria Glenda O. Delara of Philippine Normal University, Dr. Manuel T. Corpus of AACCUP, and Team Lead Dr. Cristina R. Bundoc of the University of Northern Philippines (UNP). The same set of accreditors were also assigned for the Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship program, but the team was led by Dr. Fronda.

After hours of meticulous review,

the survey visit concluded with the brief program. The program started BU President Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas expressing his deep gratitude to the AACCUP Accreditors’ visit during his opening message.

Afterwards, Dr. Helen M. Llenaresas, BU’s Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), introduced the Panel of Accreditors, who then proceeded with the seminar.

During the seminar, AACCUP Coordinator and Executive Director Dr. Manuel T. Corpus gave the ‘Statement of Purpose and Procedures’ of the survey visit.

This was followed by the presentations of the narrative profiles of BU-CBEM and the four programs under review.

BU-CBEM Dean Dr. Eddie S. See took the lead and presented the narrative profile of CBEM. He was followed respectively by Accountancy Department Chairperson Prof.

Mark Francis G. Ng, Business Administration Department Chairperson Prof. Joy C. Lawenko, and Economics Department Chairperson Dr. Ricardo M. Belgica.

After the profile presentations, the panel of accreditors and the participants had a brief discussion of the survey findings, which was followed by a meeting among the accreditors.

After much anticipation, AACCUP’s Dr. Manuel T. Corpus announced the result of the survey. CBEM’s academic programs have passed Level 3 AACCUP accreditation.

Showing their gratefulness for the visitors, the accreditors were given Certificates of Appreciation in a brief ceremony headed by BU President Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, VPAA Dr. Helen M. Llenaresas, BU Vice President for Administration and Finance (VPAF) Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan, and BU-CBEM Dean Dr. Eddie S. See. The exit conference concluded with VPAF Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan imparting her words of gratitude to the accreditors and the BUCBEM personnel for their diligence that resulted to the said achievement.

urther enriching the knowledge and capacity of the faculty and students of BU’s newest science program, a ‘Remote Sensing on Meteorology and Agriculture: Application and Research Opportunities’ training activity was organized by the Bicol University College of Science (BUCS) Physics Department last February 04 at the BUCS Building 01 Function Hall in the university’s main campus in Legazpi City.

The training activity is on the use of spectrometer for meteorology laboratories and R&D (Research and Development) directions of the Physics Department. The goal is to share expertise and train the faculty and students in the use of the spectrometer to increase the capacity of faculty and students of the Bachelor of Science in Meteorology –BU’s neophyte program which just started last June 2018.

The offering of the BS in Meteorology was in response to the need of the country to produce meteorologists and weather forecasters, given the fact that the country is frequented by typhoons. The program is currently housed at the BUCS under the Physics Department and has a total of 40 enrolled students.

The team from the University of the Philippines- Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology (UP-IESM), headed by Dr. Gay Perez, conducted the said capability training, in partnership with BUCS and CU College of Agriculture and Forestry (BUCAF), with the intention of sharing expertise and train faculty members, students and researchers in the use of the spectrometers, data processing and analysis.

On the scheduled day of the training, the participants of the activity were welcomed by the head of the host college, BUCS Dean Prof.

Jocelyn E. Serrano, who gave the opening remarks. Expressing the university’s full support on the said endeavour, BU Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Helen M. Llenaresas also addressed the participants of the event during its opening program.

The training’s first lecture was about the ‘Application of Remote Sensing on Meteorology and Culture’ by Dr. Gay Jane Perez, Head of the SARAI-DCAF Team from UP-IESM, followed by a discussion on ‘Working with Ocean View Spectrometer’ by Ms. Odette Enricuso. After the lectures, the resource persons performed a demonstration on their collected samples.

In the afternoon session, the guest experts presented their data analysis and interpretation based on the results of their demonstration. UPIESM graduate students Mr. Archie Veloria, Mr. Raymond Jess Goliat, and Mr. Michael Angelo Valete also presented their researches to the participants.

To achieve the goal of creating research collaboration between UP-IESM and BU, there were also research topic discussion with BU advisers, along with talks of future field works between the two institutions.

Showing their appreciation to the visitors from UP-IESM, Dr. Ledilla Lilibeth H. Llagas, Head of BUCS Physics Department, acknowledged the significant contribution of the guests and headed the awarding of the tokens to the resource persons.

A World-Class University Producing Leaders and Change

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The BUzzette

NEWS Orientation preps BU for upcoming institutional accreditations

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s part of the Bicol University’s on-going drive towards becoming a world-class university, BU’s Office of the Vice President of Academic Affairs (OVPAA), through the Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) Office, reinforces the university’s readiness for institutional accreditation by conducting an ‘Orientation on Institutional Accreditation’ at the BUCAL Amphitheatre last 25 February 2019.

As a University that envisions itself to be a globally recognized institution, BU’s Institutional Accreditation Orientation aims to strengthen the university’s competitiveness in preparation for its Institutional Accreditation by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) later this year.

The accreditation will determine BUs proficiency and credibility as an institution of higher learning through a review by the members of the AACCUP. It hopes to join the elite list of Institutionally Accredited SUCs in the Philippines which includes Central Mindanao University, Tarlac State University, Mariano Marcos State University, VIsayas State University,, West Visayas State University, Bulacan State University and Central Luzon State University.

The Institutional Accreditation has for its scope the Main Campus which includes the East Campus, Daraga Campus and the Main Campus. This will lessen the burden of stress brought about by the preparation of voluminous paper works, competition in the use of facilities and other resources, as well as the deadlines set as experienced during program accreditations.

The accreditation process will demonstrates to the public the university’s capability in fulfilling its vision and mission of providing quality education through the appropriate use of its resources and its adherence to the criteria established for all colleges and universities in the country.

It will evaluate the aspects of governance and administration, financial stability, admissions and student services, institutional resources, student learning, institutional effectiveness, and relationships with internal and external constituencies.

During the orientation, the BU Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Helen M. Llenaresas welcomed the participants, despite the holiday declaration. President Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas provided the inspirational message and set the tone for the orientation.

The statement of the orientation’s purpose was explained by BU’s IQA Director Engr. Medel E. Aligan.

The orientation on institutional accreditation was conducted by AACCUP President Dr. Manuel T. Corpus and Dr. Maria Glenda O. Delara, AACCUP Treasurer and Consultant. By initiating the university’s preparations the soonest possible time, BU officials and personnel involved in the accreditation review are expected to cooperate with each other and work in task forces to be created by the President.

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BUOP, BUCE and ILS recognized by Bicol Teachers College alumni group

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ecognizing their contribution to the clear growth of Bicol University over the years, the BU Office of the President (BUOP), College of Education (BUCE), and the Integrated Laboratory School (BUCEILS) were among those given recognition by the alumni association of the Bicol Teachers’ College Laboratory School (BTCLS) during the 50th anniversary celebration of the BTCLS Batch 1969 at the BUCE’s CTE Hall in BU’s main campus last February 08.

With the theme: “Remembering the Past, Celebrating the Present, Renewing Friendship”, the said event gathered former students of BTCLS for them to reconnect with one another and give recognition to exceptional contributors to the legacy of the institution. The celebration is a three-day affair, from February 08 to 10, and venued at BUCE in Legazpi City and Misibis Bay Resort in Bacacay, Albay.

The activity was organized by the members of BTCLS Class of 1969 (collectively called the “Malingayon Golden Kids”), whose golden anniversary celebration coincides with that of BU’s. As the Bicol Teachers’ College served as one of the original founding institution of BU back in 1962, key officials of the university, namely BU President Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas and BU Alumni Relations Office (BUARO) Director Dr. Rosana L. Madrona, also attended the first day of the said gathering.

The celebration began with a Holy Mass and was immediately followed by a short

RA 9184 | P3 01 is for the College of Medicine (BUCM), College of Education (BUCE), and t he Institute of Physical Education, Sports and Recreation (IPESR); Cluster 02 is for the Graduate School (BUGS) and the College of Arts and Letters (BUCAL); Cluster 03 is for the College of Science (BUCS), College of Nursing (BUCN), and the Regional Center for Science and Mathematics Education Development (RCSMED); while Cluster 04 is for the College of Engineering (BUCEng), College of Industrial Technology (BUCIT), and the Institute of Architecture (BUIA).

Aside from the main campus, each campus was also designated their own Cluster BAC.

Public Admin | P3 Education (CHED) Region 5 Education Supervisor II Atty. Christian E. Rivero (who spoke in behalf of CHED-RO5 Director Dr. Freddie T. Bernal) respectively took the floor and delivered their messages.

BU President Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas was also given the opportunity to speak and introduced the gathering’s guest speaker, Congressman Joey Sarte Salceda. Cong.

Salceda discussed the current challenges in the realm of public administration.

After the Congressman’s talk, the gathering’s esteemed guests were given

e Agents for Social Transformation and Development.

BU President Dr. Mascariñas of BU-OP receiving the recognition given by the Bicol Teachers’ College Laboratory School (BTCLS) during the 50th anniversary celebration of the BTCLS Batch 1969 at the BUCE’s CTE Hall in BU’s main campus last February 08.

program at the BUCE CTE Hall. During the said program, Certificate of Appreciations and Tokens were given to five invited guests for their contribution to the preservation of BTCLS’ legacy.

One such recognition was awarded to Bicol University’s Office of the University President. In a brief ceremony, representatives of BTCLS Alumni Mr. Rainier Madrid, Mrs. Elsie Muñoz-David and Mr. Ralph Ante conferred the recognition and was received by BU President Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas.

BUCE and BUCEILS also each earned the said recognition. In behalf of BUCE and BUCEILS, the certificates and tokens were received by BUARO Director Dr. Rosana Madrona.

Certificates of Recognition and Tokens of Appreciation in a brief ceremony. This was immediately followed by the discussions on specific topics regarding today’s public administration practices.

CHED-RO5 Education Supervisor II and CODCRIM 5 Adviser Atty. Christian E. Rivero discussed the Issues and Updates on Public Administration Programs. Atty.

Rivero’s lecture was followed by BU-CSSP Dean and BUJMRIGD Director Atty. Alex Nepomuceno talk, which delved into the subject of ‘Globalization, Nationalism, and Public Administration’.

When the lectures in all key topics have concluded, the moderators, Research and Community Mobilization Coordinator Dr. Rosemarie T. Frias and BUJMRIGD Academic Program Coordinator Dr. Noemi L. Ibo, facilitated the open forum where the participants clarified the subjects with the resource speakers.

After the lunch break, the participants of the assembly proceeded to their business meeting, which was led by BU Open University Dean Atty. Joseph L. Bartolata as the presiding officer. The event concluded with an Induction and closing remarks by Atty. Christian Rivero.

The BUzzette

NEWS

Bicol University College of Arts and Letters (BUCAL) and the Culture and Arts Division of the Office of Student Affairs and Services (BU OSAS) headed the celebration of a thanksgiving mass and the opening program last February 01 for the celebration of the 2019 National Arts Month at the BUCAL Amphitheatre in the university’s main campus in Legazpi City.

BU opens National Arts Month celebration in BUCAL

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icking-off the month-long celebration of Filipino cultural creativity and artistry, the Bicol University College of Arts and Letters (BUCAL) and the Culture and Arts Division of the Office of Student Affairs and Services (BU OSAS) headed the celebration of a thanksgiving mass and the opening program last February 01 for the celebration of the 2019 National Arts Month at the BUCAL Amphitheatre in the university’s main campus in Legazpi City.

Feature | P4 University and intensifying promotion of faculty exchange program with universities with known academic and research track record that redounds to bringing the University closer to the international borders and beyond. Such direction would need massive and complementary infrastructure support which we intend to provide by (7) sustaining modernization and upgrading of university facilities. Cognizant of the need for more funds to sustain the gains and build new milestones, we have placed the strongest emphasis on (8) developing productive enterprises for fund augmentation and improvement of the financial capacity of the University. Responding to the need for safety and security of personnel, students, and property, we shall explore all possible means to achieve the (9) building of a world-class integrated security system for the University to ensure safety and protection of students, personnel, and property through strengthening the security system by evaluating and identifying the vulnerabilities of the BU environment. Finally, to ensure sustainability of the directions for the next four years of my term, we shall pursue (10) continuing policy innovations in response to changing environment with specific focus on enhancing and strengthening of the procurement process, inclusion and equity as an integral part of

Themed “Ani ng Sining, Alab ng Sining” (Harvest of the Arts, Flame of Art), the nationwide celebration of this year’s National Arts Month is led by the National Commission of Culture and the Arts (NCCA), and Bicol University, being the premier state university in the region and known hub of Bicolano artistry, followed the lead in the said affair.

The opening program for the National Arts Month 2019 in BU began with a thanks-giving mass, celebrated by Rev. Fr. Rex Paul Arjona of San Ramon

education policy, mainstreaming mentoring program, institutionalization of publicprivate partnership, strengthening counselling mechanisms and creating support groups for vulnerable students and personnel, and promoting local cultural identity, among others.

These 10-point agenda will set the direction for the next four years of Bicol University under my leadership at a providential time when Bicol University is in the throes of celebrating its 50th Founding Anniversary. Truly, I see myself, providentially placed by people and events as the “golden boy” President for Bicol University’s golden years. With God’s abiding grace and the Bicol University family’s collective and productive efforts, I will continue to be the kind of leader Bicol University needs in successfully steering our academic community towards the next immediate years and beyond.

As I looked back at my journey, I humbly recognize that I was providentially brought to the right people and circumstances that formed and transformed me even as I struggled with all the dissenting events that run counter to my original plans. I have nothing but countless gratitude to the many men and women who continue to form part of my great team.

Even if the signs of one of the best times for Bicol University are highly visible, we can never sit comfortably and claim full success. We still have a long way to go in our quest for our vision

Nonato Church in Tagas, Daraga. Fr. Arjona related the creativity embodied by art as a righteous human aspect, particularly in being a medium to express one’s message, as God himself showed true artistry in the creation of the world.

After the thanks-giving mass, the brief opening program immediately followed, hosted by PASUC-5 Cultural Coordinator and BU Cultural Program Coordinator Prof. Dennis R. Mirabueno. The opening message for the program was delivered by Dr. Ramona Bustamante Raneses, who explained a brief history of the celebration since it began in 1991 through Presidential Proclamation 683 signed by former President Corazon C. Aquino.

Dr. Rañeses also expressed her confidence in the university’s recent strides in the field of arts, particularly in performing arts, citing the BU Performing Arts Group that’s currently set to perform at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) for the PASINAYA 2019 and at the office of Vice President Leni Robredo . Following Dr. Rañeses’ message was a performance by the BU Magayon Dance Troupe, that highlighted Filipino culture in their colourful costumes and elaborate performance.

As the program concluded, the BU Cultural Program Coordinator announced the upcoming activities in BU in line for the National Arts Month celebration. On Februalryb 15, there will be a “Sayaw Ta, Isasayaw Mi!” – a Philippine folk dance showcase featuring the BU Magayon Dance Troupe and the Physical Education 2 classes.

On February 20, a visual arts exhibit by creative BUeños, entitled “Tolod”, will be showcased at the BUCAL Lobby, along with the “Pinta Ko, Sundan Mo”(I Paint, You Follow) mural painting activity with performances by the BUNGCUL Singers, BU KUERDAS and BUGKOS GINIKANAN. There will also be a Magayon Song CO CD Launching at the BUCAL Amphitheatre on the same day, along with an Open Mic Activity (a live literarymusical concert) open to all BUeños and local artist at the BUCAL Student Lounge.

of a world-class university producing leaders and change agents for social transformation and development. Armed by faith in Divine Providence, a nurturing heart, and a spirt for passion and excellence, we will continue to break barriers that hinder us from realizing the full potential of Bicol University. With God’s abiding grace and our collective and productive efforts, we will turn our vision into reality. Join me as we continue the task of gaining more milestones and transforming our beloved Bicol University into a global hub where the best and the brightest minds converge because the best is yet to come.

BU President | P1 expressed his profound gratitude to everyone who supported him and vowed to continue to give his best in performing his sworn task in leading BU to greater heights.

As the ceremonies concluded, the guest and participants of the gathering proceeded to the Legazpi City Convention Center (L3C) for the Fellowship Dinner.

With the prolongation of his service as BU President, Dr. Mascariñas is expected to push through with his development plans for Bicol University, in line with his vision of transforming BU to an internationally recognized university.