March 2019

The

BUzzette AN EXECUTIVE NEWSLETTER

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

MARCH 2019 | Vol. XI Issue 3

issuu.com/thebuzzette_bicoluniversity

ISSN 2094-3991

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PRESIDENT’S OUTBOX

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he path to excellence lies not so much on what we have gained. Rather, excellence is the mark of a good attitude and consistency in purpose. We are excellent only as far as our imagination and creativity can carry us – particularly on sustaining whatever we have gained.

But what have you gained?

From Bicol University, you have gained the knowledge necessary to push you further into the direction of your dreams.

You have gained scholarly outputs borne by years of study and diligent work. You have gained principles to serve as your anchor when the winds of life may blow you to untrodden paths. You have gained the values imbibed through the four pillars of Scholarship, Leadership, Character, and Service that Bicol University strongly advocates for its students. You have gained friendship and lasting bonds that will last beyond the Bicol University borders. And by virtue of what you have gained from a Bicol University education, you are here today – being recognized for the gains that have made you prosper.

But in life, the far more important thing is not what you have gained; but how you can make your mark as you build your own brand of milestones. You have to sustain the good and transformative education that you have gained from Bicol University by building milestones for your university in whatever capacity.

Today, as you are recognized for your hard work, diligence, and innate abilities, think of the greater responsibility that lies with what you have gained from your University. To whom much is given, much is often expected.

Let us continue whatever gains we have built by crafting more milestones not only for ourselves but for the larger community – let this be the trademark of a Bicol University scholar.

Feature

Feature | P4-5 News | P3Equipping The Next Towards Generation of Science and Math Teachers in the Region

Gawad BUeño 2019 - BU Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan (far left), BU Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Helen M. Llenaresas (second from left), BU Prersident Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas (center) headed the awarding ceremony of the ‘2019 Gawad BUeño’ last March 29 at the BUCEng Gymnasium.

2019’s exemplary students, organizations and advisers honoured in University Recognition

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ecognizing the exemplary students that have embodied the university’s core values within this recently concluded academic year, Bicol University conducted the ‘2019 Gawad BUeño’, this year’s University Recognition Program last 29 March 2019 at the BU College of Engineering (BUCEng) Gymnasium of the BU East Campus in Legazpi City.

Themed “Sustaining Gains, Building Milestones”, the gathering honours the outstanding graduates, student-scholars, and members of university and collegebased student organizations and councils for leadership, character, service, and scholarly excellence they have exhibited within AY 2018-2019.

In addition, the advisers of the student organizations and the student coordinators from all 14 colleges and institutions (undergraduate) were also given recognition for the guidance and wisdom they have imparted upon the students.

The event also honoured the 828 students from the graduating batch of 2019 who were recognized as their commendable academic performance. These honour students are composed of seven magna cum laude graduates, 779 cum laude graduates, and 30 graduates with academic distinction.

P4 The recognition rites began with the

Collumn | P3

Scientific Literacy: For All

opening remarks by BU Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) Dean Dr. Benjamin D. Nebres III, who welcomed the participants and attendees of the gathering.

Afterwards, the event immediately proceeded with the awarding of the 2019 Most Outstanding Graduates and Most Outstanding Students. These awards were conferred by BU President Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Helen M. Llenaresas, and OSAS Dean Dr. Nebres.

During the awarding, the citation for the Most Outstanding University Graduate was read by Dr. Evelyn C. Oliquino, the Director of BU’s Institutional Student Programs and Services Division and concurrent University Scholarship and Financial Grant-in-Aid Officer.

The reading of the citation was immediately followed by the message of BU President Dr. Mascariñas, who posed the great challenge upon the honourees of continuing to do their best in their lives as professionals and responsible citizens.

Being this year’s leading honour student, Ms. Christine Joy Gimoro Gipit (BEED,BUCE), the 2019 Most Outstanding Student and Most Outstanding Graduate, spoke in behalf of her fellow honourees University Recog | P6

News | P2 New agri-tech and best practices shared during the BCAARRD FIESTA

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The BUzzette

NEWS

New agri-tech and best practices shared during the BCAARRD FIESTA

Valuing the Farm and Industry Connection - BU President Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas speaks during the BCAARRD FIESTA 2019 last March 07, where he expressed the university’s support for the development AANR sector.

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dhering to the theme: “Science and Technology for the People”, the Bicol Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (BCAARRD) FIESTA (Farms and Industry Encounter through Science and Technology Agenda) 2019 was indeed a celebration of science and technology in the AANR (agriculture, aquatic and natural resources) sector.

The said festivity was held this March 07 and 08 at the Albay Farmers Bounty Village in Cabangan, Camalig, Albay. Farmers, students, agri-preneurs and guests flocked to the venue to witness the festivities which started off with an opening program.

The keynote speaker was no less than the Vice President of the Republic of the Philippines, Maria Leonor Gerona Robredo. Though physically, she was not around, her message to the Bicolanos and guests was delivered through a video presentation. In her message, she acknowledged the importance of the farmers and the allied professions in agriculture.

Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora, the Executive Director of PCAARRD, Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas and Gov. Al Francis C. Bichara also gave their inspiring messages to the people. These gentlemen also led the ribbon cutting ceremony that followed the

opening program which signaled the opening of the FIESTA exhibits.

The exhibitors are from the Consortium Member Institutions of BCAARRD and some private agri-preneurs along the AANR sector. The exhibit did not only display the products and by-products of the focus commodities but the many agricultural and aquatic commodities in the Bicol Region.

The plenary sessions on ‘Technologies and Support System to Agripreneurs’ were conducted on the afternoon of the gathering’s first day. Invited researchers presented to the audience the new and available technologies on sweet potato, pineapple and coconut.

Engr. Percival de Villa of the Albay Provincial Agriculture Office presented the technologies and good practices in sweet potato farming. The technologies in coconut farming was delivered

by Ms. Erlene C. Manohar, the OIC Deputy Administrator of the Research and Development Branch of Philippine Coconut Authority, while the technologies in queen pineapple was given by Dr. Michelle S. Carbonell of Camarines Norte State College.

Likewise, the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office V (DA RFO V), Department of Science and Technology V (DOST V) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) presented

the support services by the respective government agencies offered to farmers and agri-preneurs.

During the Agri-Entrep Day, which was on the second day of the event, agri-preneurs of the three focus commodities shared their success stories to the attendees. The shared success stories were inspiring especially to the students of agriculture and allied disciplines.

Prof Nolan G. Belaro shared his knowledge on sweet potato processing, while ideas on sweet potato seedling production were shared by Mr. Henry Regalario. The Coco-based Organic Farming System was discussed by Mr. Jerson Lovederio, while Ms. Editha Sison presented the coconut processing. Lastly, Ms. Teresita Bacia talked about the queen pineapple processing.

Technology Pitching Dr. John Fitzken Da Vinci M. Niro of Bicol University College of Agriculture and Forestry (BUCAF) discussed the technology behind the Coco Coir Board and its production.

The Queen Pineapple Technology was discussed

by Dr. Michelle S. Carbonell of Camarines Norte State College (CNSC) and the Sweet Potato Technology was shared by Dr. Janessa A. Reyes of Bicol University College of Industrial Technology (BUCIT).

The Cook Fest and the Photography Contest were simultaneously conducted. Three teams for the student category competed for the win. The team from Bicol State College of Applied Science and Technology (BSCAST) won the first prize, followed by Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges’ (CSPC) team for the second prize and BUCAF’s team for the third prize. The Cook Fest were judged

by Ms. Margie Nacion, an accredited assessor of TESDA (Chairman of the Board of Judges), Dr. Maria Gisella Mortega, Chairperson of Food Technology Department of BU Tabaco Campus (BUTC), and Mr. Renato Jao, chef of Ninong’s Hotel.

The Photography Contest had Ms. Maria Grace Joy U. Tango, a Development Communication graduate and the current Planning Officer of DILG V, as the Chairman of the Panel of Judges. With her were Mr. Earl Epson Recamunda, a freelance photographer, and Mr. Sean Martin Andes of BU College of Letters (BUCAL) Instructor.

Nineteen entries vied for the prizes and prestige. Entry number 12 and 13 won the first prize and second prize, respectively, photo taken

by Denysse Diaz. While Entry number 15 got the third prize, photo by Ms. Nikka Barrion. All winners were from the Philippine Coconut Authority-Albay Research Center. (Ms. Maria Gracia N. Sanchez -BCAARRD/BUTC)

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 Contributors (Ms. Maria Gracia N. Sanchez -BCAARRD/BUTC) 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

OPINIONS Scientific Literacy: For All

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n understanding of basic science concepts has already become a necessity in today’s fast changing world. With advances in technology, one has to understand in some ways how gadgets and machines work. With the rising challenges on health, one has to have a good grasp of the chemistry of food and nutrition, drugs and medicines. Everyone has to know and understand the safe use of household chemicals and many products in the market. The current state of the environment requires everyone to know and understand the importance of how everything is connected to everything else - how life forms are nourished and threatened in its many interactions. In cases of natural disasters, it is not only important to cope and survive but use our understanding of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, weather and climate to make informed decisions. Even in appreciating nature in our adventures as tourists, one can fully enjoy it with the knowledge of basic earth sciences.

As we are already in the fourth industrial revolution, we have entered into another phase where there will be a marked change in the way we live. The emergence of the digital age is already starting to reshape the way we live, work and communicate. Innovations in information technology, robotics, biotechnology, machine learning and other emerging technologies will change our lives and hence, we must know and understand.

Scientific literacy does not only cover basic scientific understanding of facts but evaluating them to make informed decisions and participate in economic and social productivity. This also includes skills, values and attitudes necessary for critical thinking,

NEWS

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problem solving and decision making. This literacy is not only for those in STEM careers but for every individual. Businessmen have to know their products and the statistics that influence the economy. A farmer should know the proper use of fertilizers and pesticides not only to ensure crop production but also to secure a sustainable environment. Fishermen apply concepts in optics and mechanics to improve their daily catch without placing harm on the seas. Housewives have to understand the nature of household wastes for

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New technologies will affect every individual. In almost every career and walk of life, we cannot afford to lose because of a lack of understanding of basic science principles and the proper values and attitudes that direct our decisions.

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proper waste management. Lawmakers and politicians have to understand various issues that cover the lives of their constituents to make wise and responsible legislation, i.e. laws grounded on recent scientific findings.

This literacy builds up in our homes, schools, communities and every institution in society. The main institution responsible for this are schools, which should start at the basic education level. According to DepEd, the K to 12 science curriculum aims to provide learners with a repertoire of competencies important in the world of work and in

Voices MagnoIia Vida A. Cano Director, RCSMED

a knowledge-based society. It envisions the development of scientifically, technologically, and environmentally literate and productive members of society who are critical problem solvers, responsible stewards of nature, innovative and creative citizens, informed decision makers, and effective communicators.

Students are at the heart of the learning process. Hence, teachers who are in direct contact with students need support to produce quality graduates who will eventually lead the future generation of not only scientists and technicians but a strong scientifically literate citizenry.

The new K to 12 curriculum has seemingly insurmountable challenges with the lack of preparation of science and math teachers to handle the spiral progression of the new curriculum. As a university committed to reach out to the community, the provision of extension services to our colleagues in the basic education level is necessary if we want to see an improvement on the state of science and math education in our region.

Each student, teacher, leader, staff, employee and citizen, must keep abreast with the times; not only to be captivated by the advances in science and technology but also in keeping a tight grip on our values in the family, in school and in the community. This is really not the time to be just spectators but participants in the evolving landscape of our society, as informed and responsible citizens.

Crafts by BJMP’s PDLs featured in BUCIT’s ‘Punla at Ani’ Exhibit

s part of their partnership in the goals of changing lives and building safer communities, products made by ‘persons deprived of liberty’ (PDLs) under the custody of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) of Tabaco City were displayed last 26 March 2019 during the “Punla at Ani Exhibit”, conducted by BU College of Industrial Technology (BUCIT) students at the BU East Campus in Legazpi City.

Punla at Ani was organized and conducted by BUCIT’s first year and fourth year Bachelor in Industrial Design students for the purpose of showcasing their honed skills and developed creativity that enable them to create various products and crafts.

The exhibit also aims to convey a mes-

sage that, as designers, nobody started their journey’s first stage in full-bloom capacity, rather everyone started as young seeds ready to grow. The exhibit contains painting artworks, sculptures, and the thesis projects of students.

However, one of the exhibit’s highlights are the creations of the PDLs. These are the output of the Extension Project of BUCIT BID&BSIE’s “Arts and Craft Development @ BJMP Tabaco”, under the Program “Bicol University Expanding Productive Opportunities (BU ExPO) for PDLs of BJMP Albay” and in partnership with the BJMP of Albay province.

The exhibit officially opened with a program at the BU East Campus last March 26. It began with BUCIT Dean Dr. Jonathan

nge Agents for Social Transformation and Development.

C. Arroco, welcoming the participants in his opening remarks.

After the Dean’s talk, BU-IDeAs President Terence Joshua L. Pintor gave an explanation of the exhibits theme before introducing the program’s guest speaker, SEDP-MPC Executive Director Remegia Ll. Balucio. Ms. Balucio delivered gave an inspiring message for the participants, particularly for those who are producers of arts and crafts.

After the inspirational message, newly elected BUCIT College Student Council (CSC) President Mervin Bellen concluded the program with his closing remarks. The exhibit was then declared to be officially open through a ribbon cutting ceremony.

FEAT

The BU

Towards Equipping The Next Generation of Science a By: Julius Justino B.Embile

Being the premier state university in the Bicol region, Bicol University has not deviated from its core identity: a institution. Throughout the years, the university has engaged in various social endeavors to contribute synergistica social transformation by providing services for the advancement of academic standards across the region.

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he efficiency of the education system has always been measured by the quality of students and graduates produced by the institutions. Thus, for universities like BU, investing on quality teaching, even to those beyond the collegiate level, must be paramount as they serve as the foundation in the formation of competent graduates which will become the experts and innovators of the future.

Keeping the capacity of teachers in all levels of education updated in these ever-changing world has always presented great challenges for the country’s education system. Particularly in the realm of science and mathematics education, an area of learning that evolves and innovates in a rapid pace in these modern times, the enhancement of teacher capability must always be given attention in order to maintain quality education.

As an institution constantly striving for excellence, Bicol University answers this challenge by creating a Center that focuses on teacher education in the disciplines of science and mathematics: the BU Regional Center for Science and Mathematics Education Development (RCSMED).

RCSMED emerged from Regional Science Teaching Center (RSTC). In the 1990’s, the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) wanted to train teachers along science and math education due to the poor performance of the students. Thus DOSTSEI created RSTC as a teaching arm, in partnership with select Universities in the country. If DOST-SEI intends to train teachers in the Bicol region, they request RSTC to train the teachers .

Initially, for a time, BU acted as a host of RSTC. After a while, DOST shifted its focus on other goals and funds for teacher training were channelled on other projects.

Seminar in geology for teachers

Short term course for meteorology for teachers However, former BU President Fay Lauraya sustained RSTC in BU. By rallying support from within the university and from the local government, RSTC in BU was retained.

When Dr. Arnulfo Mascariñas took the helm as the BU President, he also saw the importance of the university playing the part in extending its support to science and math education. Thus, RSTC was also retained. Though the Center maintains its collaborative ties with DOST, the center was then renamed Regional Center for Science and Mathematics Education Development (RCSMED) since the center was no longer primarily funded by DOST.

By June 2017, the BU BOR approved the proposal of renaming RSTC to RCSMED, along with a few additions to the function of the center. On top of teacher trainings, RCSMED became involved in other duties, namely: provide continuing education programs (which includes teacher training), design curriculum and instructional materials, engage in research activities, conduct outreach programs for schools and communities, conduct promotion activities for public understanding and appreciation of science, and establish institutional collaboration for the enhancement of science and math education.

“Until now, our primary focus is still on teacher training, particularly on basic education,” said Prof.

Magnolia Vida A. Cano, current Director of RCSMED. “In the advent of the Kto12 program, the center’s focus is on helping teachers increase their capabilities in teaching science and mathematics, because of the

major changes in the cur According to Pro curriculum, teachers are based on their field of sp by teachers who special concept goes for chem Today, science teachers a science disciplines. Thu remains as the main thru To address this need collaboration with BU the College of Education experts in the field. As centers under the Offic Research and Extension, functions mostly along e Through extensive collab short-term courses, sem for teachers in the f programs, the Center int engagement.

Since the creation o challenges faced by the Thus, one of the recen was the inking of the M (MOA) between the Ce Education (DepEd), whe courses may be charged subject to the availability which began in the latte training for teachers of

Training on Language St and Mathematics

A World-Class University Producing Leaders and Chang

TURE

Uzzette

and Math Teachers in the Region

an educational ally to positive

rriculum,” she explained. of. Cano, in the previous e given teaching assignments pecialization. Biology is taught lize in biology, and the same mistry and physics teachers. are required to teach multiple us, teacher capacity-building ust of RCSMED. d, the Center maintains close College of Science (BUCS), n (BUCE), other agencies and s one of the discipline-based ce of the Vice President for , RCSMED currently performs extension,” stated Prof. Cano. borations, RCSMED conducts minar-workshops and lectures field. For more responsive tends to intensify its research

of RCSMED, one of the great center has been on funding. nt achievement of RCSMED Memorandum of Agreement enter and the Department of erein the funding of short term d against the school’s MOOE y of funds. This arrangement, er part of 2017, included the multiple science disciplines,

trategies in Teaching Science

particularly biology, chemistry, physics, earth science, and mathematics.

Since the cost of trainings is supported by DepEd, it has taken off a considerable burden from the teachers who are given the opportunity to be permitted by their principals to attend the courses. The Center still maintains its close partnership with DOST-SEI which allows it to host SEI-initiated and funded trainings, such as Project STAR (Science Teacher Academy for the Regions). Other trainings funded by DOST-SEI are proposal-based such as the recent Geology and Disaster Risk Reduction Management training for teachers which was proposed by the Center. The Center also provides free lectures with its partnership with the BUCS Chemistry Department.

The Center conducts science promotion activities such as the Children’s Chemistry Poster Making Competition, Women in Science Forum and the hosting of the Philippine Earth Science Olympiad.

For curriculum and instructional materials development, RSCMED prepares assessment instruments and gathers training materials which it intends to package and be made available for teachers.

Skills in research is also given attention by RCSMED through the conduct of research workshops and seminars. For these activities, the Center invites experts from prestigious institutions like University of the Philippines and De La Salle University.

RSCMED plans to further enhance these linkages with top science institution by establishing solid partnerships. An example of this is the plan to craft an agreement with the newly instituted Center for Integrated STEM Education in the Philippines (CISEP) and the renowned pharmaceutical company UniLab. Among the different sciences, the Center also takes pride in assisting teachers in the field of Earth Science. Unlike Biology, Chemistry and Physics, teacher education preparation for Earth Science in the Bicol region is very rare. RCSMED took the initiative of including the discipline in their courses and tapped experts in the field, like American volcanologist Dr. Chris Newhall formerly of US Geological Survey, Mr. Miguel C. Cano, Earth Science educator, who facilitates the Philippine Earth Science Olympiad and is a parttime faculty in the BU Graduate School.

Another partnership for Earth Science Education was with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Mines and Geo Sciences Bureau (DENRMGB) and APSEMO. Through these partnerships,

ge Agents for Social Transformation and Development.

RCSMED has created a collaborative network of experts involving BU, DENR-MGB, APSEMO and local experts that contextualizes and connects Earth Science with teacher training.

The RCSMED’s Earth Science training highlights fieldwork and contextualization in a localized manner. Specifically, the training is done based on the teacher’s local area. Example, Sorsogon teachers are taught Earth Science in the context of Sorsogon province, making it more convenient for the teacher-trainees to teach Earth Science in the context of the environment of their province.

In terms of extension, RCSMED has been instrumental in aiding the colleges and institutions in complying with their extension functions. The Center’s extension assistance include crafting of proposals, coordination with external and internal partners, promotion of extension activities, and other administrative work.

When RCSMED conducts short-term courses, the trainings are not exclusive to DepEd teachers but are also made available for BU faculty members.

“With all that we have done and what we plan to do, we hope that we were able to meet the needs of the teachers,” said RCSMED Director Prof. Cano.

“We hope that what we have done for the teachers translates to the classroom and ultimately create a positive impact to the students. That would be our desired goal,” added the director.

Short-Term Course on Mechanics

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The BUzzette

NEWS t 39 public financial management professionals completes the PFMCP Foundation Track

P Fit In, Fit Right, Let’s Do It Right -To raise awareness in the importance of a healthy active lifestyle, the BUIPESR and the BUGS’ MAPE students conduct their Wellness Forum (left) and Zumba workout (right) last March 16.

Overall health highlighted in BUGS and IPESR’s Wellness Forum

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ushing forward with their advocacy for health and active lifestyle, the Bicol University Graduate School’s (BUGS) Master of Arts in Physical Education (MAPE) Students and BU Institute of Physical Education, Sports and Recreation (IPESR), in partnership with Pacific Mall –Legazpi, held their Wellness Forum this March 16, centered on the theme “Fit In, Fit Right, Let’s Do It For Life.”

The event took place at the BU College of Arts and Letters (BUCAL) Amphitheatre. The forum began with some words of welcome, which was delivered by IPESR Dean Prof.

Carina L. Sales. Showing his support to the endeavour, BUGS Dean Dr. Antonio P. Payonga also attended the gathering and was given a chance to deliver his message.

Tackling the many aspects that composes overall health, the forum primarily involves talks from invited resource speakers, which was succeeded by open forums for the participants’ better understanding.

University Recog | P1

and responded to the President’s challenge with a promise of responsibly keeping the honor accorded to them by the university.

Then, the program proceeded with the conferment of Medals of Excellence to the College Outstanding Graduates

by BU President Dr. Mascariñas and OSAS Dean Dr. Nebres, followed by the awarding of the Plaque of Recognition to the Outstanding College-based Organization, College Student Council, and their respective advisers by BU Vice President for Administration and Finance (VPAF) Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan, University Student Regent Mr. Brian Mitchell R. dela Rama, and OSAS Dean Dr. Nebres.

Next, BU President Dr. Mascariñas and Acting USC Adviser Prof. Daves L. Tonga awarded the Certificates

First to talk was Dr. Hennie P. Lomibao, who expounded on the concepts of ‘Psychological and Emotional Wellness’. Her talk was followed by BU College of Science (BUCS) Dean Dr. Jocelyn E. Serrano’s lecture about ‘Mental Health and Wellness’.

After the lunch break, the forum resumes with a discussion about ‘Wellness Nutrition’

by Dr. Maria Della C. Rañeses of the BU College of Nursing (BUCN). The last to take the stage among the resource speakers was AFA/ZIN member Zin Ma. Cecile Espiritu, who discussed ‘Physical Fitness: A Leader’s Competence’.

The forum concluded with a brief closing program and awarding of certificates to the guests and participants. However, the gathering has not yet ended.

The participants of the forum proceeded to Pacific Mall –Legazpi for the free Zumba Party, with guest fitness coach Joshua Zamora.

of Recognition to the AY 2018-2019 University Students’ Council (USC) officers and the Bicol Universitarian (UNIBE) editorial staff.

After an intermission number by the BU Kuerdas, BU President Dr. Mascariñas and VPAA Dr. Llenaresas returned, along with University Alumni President Prof.

Edgar Barrameda, for the awarding of the Medal+-s of Excellence to the honor graduates of batch 2019. Dr. Mascariñas also led the awarding of the Certificates of Commendation for this school year’s College Student Activities Coordinators.

Before the activity concluded, BU Student Development Division Director Prof. Daves L. Tonga delivered the program’s closing remarks. The event marked its end after the singing of the BU Hymn.

ublic finance professionals from various government offices across the Bicol region updated their knowledge in public financial management in the recently held Public Financial Management Competency Program (PFMCP) –Foundation Track last 20 to 22 March 2019, conducted through the partnership of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the Bureau of Treasury (BTr), and Bicol University.

During the said course, 39 participating public finance professionals from 16 government offices in the region completed the PFMCP Foundation Track.

On the first day of the event, the participants were first welcomed by BU’s Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan in her opening remarks. She was followed by messages delivered by DBM Region 5 Assistant Director Bella V. Regaspi and BTr Region 5 Director Jose Cyril T. Panambo, who expressed their timely value of renewed financial competency for financial management professionals in the government.

Before starting the learning sessions for the PFMCP track, BU Business Affairs Office (BAO) Director Dr. Viola L. Amano led the introduction of the participants by agency, the guests, the invited resource persons, and the organizing staff. She also presented the overview of the training, including the networking activity, the ‘levelling of expectations’, the house rules and the pre-tests.

For the first learning session, the team composed of Prof. Analiza O. Pabilona, Ms. Joy C. Lawenko, Ms. Crisanta A. Botin, and Ms. Barbara C. Relucio facilitated the training and discussed about the ‘PFM Competency Framework’ and the ‘Building PFM Understanding’.

The topic of ‘Effective Collaboration in PFM’ was also discussed by Ms. Charmaine Grace H. Cabria, with assistance from facilitators Ms. Cheryl R. del Prado and Ms. Mary Rose Bahillo.

On the second day of the PMFCP, Prof. Mark Francis G. Ng and Mr. Joseph S. Lopera taught the participants the ‘Principles of Internal Control’.

For the third day of the Foundation Track, the PFM professionals were taught about ‘Using Data for Decision Making’ and the ‘Types and Levels of Analytics’ by Mr. Joseph Lopera and Mr. Rodolfo Hil L. Medroso III. Afterwards, posttests and an ‘evaluation of the training’ were administered for the participants to ensure their understanding of the track’s subjects.

The participants completed the training with flying colors and were awarded certificates.

In a brief ceremony, the certificates were conferred by BU-BAO Director Dr. Amano, BTrRegion 5 Director Panambo, and Ms. Aileen Afunggol of DBM.

A World-Class University Producing Leaders and Change

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The BUzzette

NEWS OVPRDE, IPMD teach Patent Drafting to researchers in seminar-workshop

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o ensure the protection of the rights of the university’s researchers when it comes to their work, a seminar-workshop on patent drafting was organized by the Bicol University’s Office of the Vice President for Research, Development and Extension (OVPRDE), through the Intellectual Property Management Division (IPMD), last 13 and 14 March 2019 at the HERRC Amphitheatre of the BU East Campus in Legazpi City.

Conducted through the cooperation of the IPM-BDO Project, the said seminar was aimed at instilling knowledge on intellectual property and patency to the university’s researchers, so that their they can be properly credited for the innovative results of their research work.

On the first day, the activity began with BU’s VPRDE Prof. Ronnel R. Dioneda Sr.’s opening remarks where he welcomed the participants of the seminar. BU President Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas was also present in the gathering and expressed his utmost support during his message.

After the BU President’s address, the introduction of the participants and the overview of the activities were given by BUIPMD Director Engr. Christopher O. Pacardo.

Then, the subject of ‘Patent Searching and Technology’ was discussed by IPMD technical staff member Mr. Christian L. Baiño.

In the afternoon, IPMD technical staff member Mr. Richard B. Colasito gave the participants the ‘Introduction to Patent Drafting’, which included the test novelty, inventive step and industrial use, and invention spotting.

The seminar-workshop was done with an interactive approach as the facilitators and participants join in workshops and presentations of outputs. The first day of the training concluded after the presentation of results by the participants (per college).

On the second day of the seminar, IPMD technical staff member Ms. Zaira G. Bataller taught about ‘Claim Drafting’. She was later joined by Mr. Richard B. Colasito for the discussion on the process of patent drafting. Their topic delved particularly on the steps of patent drafting, claim drafting, and specification drafting.

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One Billion Rising - Representatives of government and non-government institutions, including Bicol University, gathered last March 19 at the Albay Astrodome in Legazpi City to show their support for women’s welfare.

BU joins ‘One Billion Rising’ for 2019 Women’s Month

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howing the Bicol University’s strong support for the rights and welfare of all women; officials, students, faculty members, and non-teaching staff members of the university joined the 2019 ‘One Billion Rising’, organized by the Department of Education (DepEd) of Region 5 in celebration of this year’s Women’s Month, last 19 March 2019.

The event began on the early hours of the day, where the participants from various government and non-government institutions assembled at the Legazpi City Boulevard in Barangay Dap-dap, Legazpi City. From there, they began the ‘Solidarity March for Women’ en-route to Albay Astrodome.

At the Albay Astrodome, the celebration

continued with a program, organized by DepEd-RO5, where esteemed leaders were given to express their support for women empowerment, including Legazpi City Mayor Noel E. Rosal, Albay Provincial Governor Al Francis Bichara, DepEd Bicol Regional Director Gilbert T. Sadsad, and National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Bicol Regional Director Agnes E. Tolentino.

The gathering was filled with music and dancing, and culminated with a turn-over ceremony for the OBR hosting from DepEd to DPWH (who will be hosting the 2019 OBR).

Renowned broadcaster visits BU as lecturer on responsible crisis coverage

The Crisis Correspondent - Renowned news correspondent Jeff Canoy visited BU last March 01 to share his knowledge and experiences in covering crisis, disaster and conflict situations to young communications students.

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enowned crisis correspondent Jeff Canoy visited Bicol University this 01 March 2019 to discuss responsible media practice with BU students, during the “Reporting from the Margins: The Role of Journalism in Covering Crisis and Conflict Situations” activity that was held in the BU College of Arts and Letters

e Agents for Social Transformation and Development.

(BUCAL) Amphitheatre in Legazpi City.

As a career broadcaster in one of the major media organizations in the Philippines, Jeff is a veteran when it comes to covering crisis scenarios like natural disasters and major armed incidences in the country. He has visited many crisis zones and has covered events that had a major impact in the Philippines modern day history like the Marawi Siege, as well as disaster scenarios ranging from typhoons to volcanic eruptions.

Aside from news broadcasting, Jeff Canoy also creates timely documentaries and is currently hosting a TV show that teaches disaster response and mitigation. Thus, through all his outstanding work, he was recognized by the Canadian government and recently became the youngest recipient of the McLuhan Fellowship for Excellence in Journalism in 2018. Broadcaster | P8

The BUzzette

NEWS

Hearing It Directly - Student-leaders, heads of student organizations, and campus journalists took advantage of the opportunity to directly ask questions to the head of the BU Administration; BU President Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, VPAA Dr. Helen M. Llenaresas, and VPAF Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan.

Students’ queries and concerns discussed with BU Pres and VPs during ‘Dayalogo’

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roving that the Bicol University’s administration gives value to the sentiments of the student body, BU President Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Helen M. Llenaresas and Vice President for Administration and Finance (VPAF) Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan faced the representatives of the university’s student community during the “Dayalogo” Forum, held at the BU College of Arts and Letters (BUCAL) Amphitheatre this March 14.

The said forum was conducted by The Bicol Universitarian (Unibe), BU’s official university student publication, and was attended by leaders and representative of BU’s university-based and college-based student organizations and publications.

During the gathering, the students asked questions regarding pressing matters of the student body and expressed their sentiments regarding the systems in the university. Among the prime concerns raised by the students are about the shift in the university calendar, the provision of incentives for athletes, and the need for support of various student clubs.

Each question and issue forwarded by the students were heard and appropriately responded by the University President and VPs. After the dialogue, BU President Dr. Mascariñas implored for the student’s support in the administration’s efforts, stressing that the student community is one of the most valuable sector in the university.

Broadcaster | P7 Now, Jeff is also involved

in imparting knowledge in responsible journalism to future media practitioners as a speaker in the McLuhan Forum Series on Responsible Media –one of which is the forum held in BUCAL this MARCH 01. He was glad to have been the speaker in the forum in Albay, saying with pride that his family has roots in the town of Tiwi, Albay.

The said forum in BU was organized through the partnership of BUCAL and the Canadian Embassy. The activity began with BU Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Helen M. Llenaresas delivering the welcoming remarks in behalf of BU President Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, who was currently in Manila for an equally important matter.

Dr. Llenaresas expressed her gratitude to the guests and organizers of the forum as it surely would contribute to the BU communication students’ holistic growth as it instills the virtue of responsibility. After Dr. Llenaresas’ speech, Mr. Carlo Figueroa, the Public Affairs Attache of the Embassy of Canada, introduced the resource person of the forum.

In his discussion on proper coverage of crisis situations, Jeff Canoy presented the proper media practices he has learned throughout his years of experience. He reinforced his talking points by presenting audio-video clips and footages of his coverage of the Marawi Siege.

After his lecture, the forum proceeded with taking the audiences’ reaction on the topic. There was also an open forum where the participants asked questions to Jeff for clarification and additional knowledge.

BU and KSU partner in community training against landslide disasters

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n order to protect communities from the dangers of landslide, a “Reducing Disaster Caused By Rain-induced Landslides” Training for communities and non-experts was conducted last 25 and 26 March 2019 at the BU College of Science (BUCS), through the partnership of Bicol University, the Kalinga State University (KSU), and various agencies involved in disaster reduction and mitigation.

Before the training began, the participants were welcomed by BU President Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas and BU Extension Management Division (EMD) Director Dr. Lester M. Narvaez, who delivered their welcoming remarks respectively. The participants were then introduced by Mr. Alwin Joseph M. Maceres.

To give the participants an introductory concept on rain-induced landslide, Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office (APSEMO) Executive Director Dr.

Cedric Daep was the first resource person to talk. He discussed the ‘Albay Experience on Rain-induced Landslides’.

Next to lecture was Ms. Nancy T. Lance, the Weather Services Chief of the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) Southern Luzon PAGASA Regional Services Division (SLPRSD). She talked about how the weather and climate affect the possibilities for landslides.

As soil conditions also play a major role in landslide incidences, the Chief Geologist of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Ms. Arlene E. Dayao presented the ‘Landslide Hazards in the Province of Albay’. After all the invited resource persons were done with their discussions, the gathering proceeded with the learning sessions.

It started with the overview and introduction of the training proper, by KSU

Campus Director and Program Leader Dr. Lope T. Buen. The first session of the day was about the presentation and discussion on the Landslide Susceptibility Assessment Guidebook.

After lunch, the training continued with two more learning sessions. Engr. Rhonjhon R. Garming, the KSU Planning and Strategy Director introduced the participants to the Penetrometer, better known as the ‘Swedish Weight Sounding Apparatus’. Then, Engr.

Solomon Lao-aten, Extension Director and Chair of CEIT-KSU, taught the participants ‘Measurement of Rainfall Using NonRecordable Rain Gauge’.

On the second day of the training, the participants were immersed in hands-on learning, as their activity were composed of environmental scanning, site and field visits, and the applications of the procedures they learned from the training sessions.