October 2022 BUzette

PRESIDENT’S OUTBOX

BU is latest GCEd Hub in Bicol

Jim Rohn, an American entrepreneur and motivational speaker, nailed it when he said, “Motivation is what gets you started. Commitment is what keeps you going.” In a constantly changing education landscape, Bicol University is called upon not only to stay motivated, but to uphold its commitment to provide quality education.

To accomplish this task and sustain our thrusts and directions for quality and transformative education, we are once again reminded that it is not enough to be motivated. After all, nothing great is created suddenly. Everything is always a work in progress. Thus, we will continue working towards our visions because we believe that to be a “world-class university producing change agents for social transformation and development,” entails quality work and continuous improvements with every quality assurance work.

With this, we will remain true to our calling to build a culture of excellence and service.

As ISO and other quality assurance work loom near, I thank the Bicol University family for your zeal and hard work in carrying out our mandate of providing quality education and advocating the establishment of a culture of excellence.

Asthe premier state university in the region, Bicol University was formally recognized as the Global Citizenship Education (GCEd) Regional Hub of the Bicol Region, through a Memorandum of Understanding signing held at the Swiss-Belhotel Blulane, Sta. Cruz, Manila, October 18, 2022.

BU President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, along with other representatives and officials of partner HEIs, attended the launching of the Philippine GCED Regional Hub and MOU signing.

The GCED Cooperation Centre Philippines (GCC Philippines) searched for institutions to act as GCED Regional Hubs with the launch of the Philippine GCED Network. These Regional Hubs will lead the way in advancing GCED in their respective regions. They will actively collaborate with GCC Philippines to encourage other institutions to promote GCED actively.

As the region’s hub, this will promote GCED-

related programs and their implementation in Bicol, as well as its advocacies in support of the GCED goals.

Other partner HEIs and their regions are: Tarlac Agricultural University (Region III – Central Luzon), Philippine Normal University – Institute of Teaching and Learning (NCR), Marikina Polytechnic College (NCR), Philippine Normal University – North Luzon (Region II Cagayan Valley), St. Paul University Philippines (Region II – Cagayan Valley), Philippine Normal University – South Luzon (Region IVA –CALABARZON), City College of Calamba (Region IVA –CALABARZON), Philippine Normal University – Visayas (Region VI – Western Visayas), University of Eastern Philippines (Region VI –Western Visayas), Bukidnon State University (Region X – Northern Mindanao), Mindanao State University – General Santos (Region XII – SOCCSKSARGEN), and Philippine Normal University – Mindanao (Region XIII –Caraga Region).

Mabuhay tayong lahat!

CAF studes explore cost reducing rice production through Lakbay Palay

USAID strengthens link with BU; HERO program for out-of-school youth to continue

In a courtesy call requested by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to Bicol University (BU), as its Higher Education Institution (HEI) partner, the Higher Education or Training Readiness Orientation (HERO) Program and the ongoing research grant the university is undertaking was further discussed on October 17, 2022.

Through the USAID’s Opportunity 2.0, Bicol University has partnered with USAID to give a second-chance education to OSY as well as beneficiaries of the Alternative

Learning System (ALS). On March 2022, BU entered an agreement with USAID to deliver the HERO program through the university’s National Service Training Program (NSTP).

Currently, 35 student volunteers were trained resulting to 90 ALS completers. To sustain these efforts, BU established a brand-new student group called the “National Service Reserve Corps (NSRC),” with the purpose of expanding HERO to more parts of the city.

USAID continued the project by funding a research proposed by the university that traces DepEd ALS Completers in the city to

assess their chances of continuing education, as well as to identify the right skills training and programs they may need to succeed in the workplace or as entrepreneurs. During the meeting, the BU NSRC Group was launched wherein some student volunteers and ALS Learners also shared their experiences.

BU has been a steadfast advocate of out-of-school youth projects in the city. The university is one of the founding members of the Legazpi City Youth Development Alliance established in 2020 along with the USAID support.

BU hosts 75th UNAP Conference

Inits commitment to hold programs and activities responsive to the needs of national development and international cooperation, a joint celebration of the United Nations Association of the Philippines (UNAP) 75th Founding Anniversary was held on October 24 to 25, 2022 in partnership with Bicol University through a Conference with the theme, “Future-Proofing Human and Food Security.”

LGU Legazpi sponsors welcome program

To kick-off the celebration, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Legazpi, through the Mayor’s Office, sponsored a “Mayor’s Night” to formally welcome the participants and to offer the best Legazpeño experience through cultural performances at the Legazpi City Convention Center on October 23, 2022. Hon. Geraldine B. Rosal, Mayor of Legazpi City, said in her message that the university has been a strong partner of the LGU since the mayorship

EDITORIAL BOARD

of her husband, former City Mayor and now Provincial Governor Hon. Noel E. Rosal.

She also assured the university that the LGU is open for projects and research as a result of the conference, which she believes can push for advocacies not only locally but also nationwide. The BU Magayon Dance Troupe gave cultural performances based on certain native dances as the event came to a conclusion, reflecting the rich culture and festivities of the city.

BU hosts UNAP | P8

Heroes - With Bicol University as its Higher Education Institution parner, USAID’s Opportunity 2.0 gives out-of-school youths and beneficiares of the Alternative Learning System a chances to continur their education through the Higher Education or Training Readiness Orientation (HERO) Program.

CAF studes explore cost reducing rice production through Lakbay Palay

To highlight rice cultivation innovations that are both costeffective and yield-enhancing, the Department of Agriculture (DA) –Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) invited 15 BUeños from the College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF) for this year’s Lakbay Palay dubbed, “Bukid Tipid Tips, Subukan!” at Ligao City, on October 11, 2022.

Along with the guidance of Prof. Aileen C. Malo, CAF faculty member, including the BUeño participants taking BS Agriculture major in Agricultural Extension and major in Crop Sciences, 392 attendees from

the provinces of Albay, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, Sorsogon, Masbate, and Northern Samar were present. As an annual activity, this also provides farmers and extension personnel a forum for discussion. The participants learned about Inbred and Hybrid Rice Varieties and Characteristics, Abonong Swak, and Pest Management through its Bukid Tipid Tips Tekno Klinik Sessions, according to the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) website.

“This was our first tour since first year. We are happy kasi we were able to experience such

activity most especially po na graduating na kami. Also, ang dami pong prominent speakers and agrirelated companies present during the field day,” Kristine Prieto said, one of the CAF student participants.

Additionally, DA V discussed their projects that will increase agricultural production and farmers’ revenue. Throughout the activity, they also promoted a number of banner initiatives, including the distribution of seeds, discount coupons for fertilizer, financial aid, gasoline subsidies, and the provision of agricultural equipment.

To provide training programs, DOST V taps BU for iWOMEN, iFWD PH project

In support of Gender and Development (GAD) programs by offering S&T support services to women micro-entrepreneurs and advocate women economic empowerment in the region, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) V inked a Memorandum of Agreement with Bicol University (BU) in delivering Core Business Development Sessions for the Innovations for Women Enterprise

(iWOMEN) and Innovations for Filipinos Working Distantly from the Philippines (iFWD PH) on October 12, 2022.

On behalf of BU President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, Dr. Luis O. Amano, VP for Research, Development, and Extension (VPRDE), represented the university’s partnership with DOST V through Rommel R. Serrano, Regional Director.

As a result, BU, through its Center

for Technology Commercialization and Enterprise Development (CTCED) and Start-up Incubation and Limitless Integration of Dynamic Entrepreneurial Leaders of Innovation (SILI DELI), will lead the capability training program to empower the women and OFWs in the region who want to engage the numerous businesses in the industry.

To provide training| P6

All Rice - Students from Bicol University College of Agriculture and Forestry (BUCAF) attend “Bukid Tipid Tips, Subukan!” an event by the Department of Agriculture - Philippine Rice Research Institute at Ligao City to explore cost-effective and yield-enhancing rice production methods.

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

The story behind a BUTC alumna who clinched

After finishing with a 100% passing rate in the September 2022 Social Work licensure examination and having claimed the Top 1 Performing school across the country, Bicol University Tabaco Campus (BUTC) has once again proven its prowess as a key player in board exams.

Not only that 129 newlylicensed Social Workers were produced by the university, but most importantly, a topnotcher was produced, who finished in the 9th Place of the exams with a remarkable 86.40% grade.

The ‘Placer Friend’

She is Jonna Mae B. Bogñalbal, 22, from barangay San Ramon, Tabaco City. She graduated top of her peers with a Magna Cum Laude Latin award. Despite the pressure

she felt, Jonna Mae shared in an interview that her professors and friends were already manifesting her placement in the top 10 of the exams, which gave her motivation to aim higher.

“My friends sometimes call me as their ‘Placer Friend’ even prior the exams. Sometimes I just shrug it off and tell them that my only goal was to pass the board exam but at the end of the day, I could not deny the fact that I am also affected by the expectations of the people around me.”

According to her, one’s ability to top the boards will rely on the amount of hard work and dedication they put in preparation since college.

“I can say that my efforts to excel academically during my four years in college helped a lot to top the board exam because it was easier for me to recall concepts and theories related to the social

work profession, given that I have already studied them way back in college.”

She also mentioned that she doesn’t memorize concepts based on how it is defined in the book but her thorough understanding of it and its applications has helped her tackle challenging questions in the boards. Additionally, she also invested in reading and review materials from different authors and sources to further her knowledge.

“Time management and discipline were also crucial in my journey. I was enrolled in an enhancement class organized by BUCSSP Social Work Department. It was almost a month-long review; it was draining since I have to attend to the daily review sessions. But when I went home, I still made sure to read more materials so that I can cover all the areas for the examination.”

top 9 in the Social Work licensure exams

A Call for Service

When asked why she wanted to be a Social Worker, Jonna Mae said that she was inspired by her brother who was also a Registered Social Worker,

“Growing up, I have seen how he has grown in this profession and I witnessed that this can give us a great sense of fulfillment and I wanted to be just like him. When I was in college, I gained a good grasp of the crucial role of social workers in our society. I have learned that there will always be people, anywhere, anytime who are in need of help.”

She continued by saying that she wanted to assist people to improve their standard of living so they could someday support themselves and give back to the community. Jonna Mae wanted to utilize her knowledge and abilities to help those in need, now that she’s certified as a Social Worker, and be a part of the positive change affecting people’s lives and the society.

Life sometimes leads us down a different route than we planned, but it will always lead us in the direction that is meant for us. Just like in the fate of Jonna Mae, whose first choice in the BU College Entrance Test (BUCET) was BS Accountancy but did not make it to the quota. Her options at that time were to pursue this program in a private institution or try her luck in BS Social Work at BUTC. She chose the latter.

“It was one of the major decisions that I have made in my life. I chose BS Social Work because I also considered the financial capacity of my family. Social Work may not be my first choice but I now believe that I am destined to be in this path.”

As the youngest of Mr. Joel and Mrs. Herminia Bogñalbal, Jonna Mae is the princess of her four older brothers. Taking BS Accountancy in BU College of Business, Economics, and Management (CBEM) or in a private institution would not only sacrifice her time away from her family, but also entail expenses. Unlike studying in BUTC that is near her hometown while pursuing a profession where she soon found her purpose.

“To those students who feel like they are lost in their academic journey or those who feel like their

plans are not going in the direction that they want, have faith that God has better things in store for you.”

When Jonna Mae was a student, she struggled with low self-esteem and was anxious in facing large crowds. But because her future profession practices learning opportunities necessary for one to become a social worker, it gave her confidence where she also realized her skills beyond the confines of the classroom.

“It is definitely not a smooth sailing journey, but you need to have faith in yourself as well and be reminded that life will not be always in our favor and that’s our reality. Instead of completely losing grip of our dreams and aspirations in life, we have to give our best shot in all things and explore other paths because this may lead us to that one path which is truly destined for us.”

Meanwhile, the BU College of Social Sciences and Philosophy (CSSP) was also declared the 2nd top performing school, achieving a 99.05% overall passing rate with 104 passers, BUTC with 25; besting the 62.75% national passing rate.

| by Arnold C. Noda

‘I am destined to be in this path’

Expanding International Relations: Universitas Kristen Indonesia new BU partner on International Cooperation

In its continued partnership with international schools, colleges, and universities across the world, Bicol University (BU), through the International Relations Office (IRO), sealed an international cooperation agreement with the Universitas Kristen Indonesia (UKI), via a virtual Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing held on October 10, 2022.

Through this agreement, the universities will keep in touch and expand their relationships based on friendship, cooperative exchange, reciprocity, equality, and mutual aid. Both shall encourage joint efforts through academic and scientific undertakings, as stated in the memorandum, and secure financial

resources necessary for future activities and engagement.

By inviting faculty and staff to participate in collaborative research projects, the partnership will achieve its goals of (1) fostering institutional exchange, (2) fostering the exchange of essays, publications, theses, and research-related information, (3) fostering dual degree programs, and (4) fostering student exchange programs.

The virtual ceremonies commenced with welcome remarks from Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan, VP for Academic Affairs (VPAA), followed by messages from University Provosts, BU President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas and UKI Rector Dr. Dhaniswara K. Harjono.

For the brief university profile presentations, Dr. Dimson M. Rivero, BU IRO Director, discussed BU’s profile of excellence while Dr. Asri Purnamasari, UKI International Office Director, presided for UKI’s presentation.

Afterward, the virtual signing took place virtually participated by the signees from the universities: BU President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas; VPAA Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan; IRO Director Dr. Dimson M. Rivero; BU Graduate School Dean Dr. Herbert B. Rosana; College of Business, Economics, and Management Prof. Edgar Barrameda; College of Social Sciences and Philosophy Atty. Alex B. Nepomuceno; UKI Rector Dr. Dhaniswara K. Harjono; and Vice Rector Dr. Ied Veda R. Sitepu.

Fostering Connections - Bicol University through the International Relations Office (IRO) seal an agreement with the Uninversitas Kristen Indonesia (UKI) on October 10, 2022. The Memorandum of Understanding invites faculty and staff to collaborate on research projects, as well as institutional exchanges, and student exchange programs.

iWOMEN is a project that encourages technology-based entrepreneurship and emphasizes group experimentation and the creation of new goods that are connected to the company’s scientific and technical advancements. This is also an advocacy of DOST V to empower women in enterprise, diverse groups, and underprivileged

communities.

While iFWD PH is a program that seeks to assist Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families in starting their own technologybased enterprises by using its training model for the iWOMEN, it also takes new iFWD applications into consideration when selecting participants for open slots.

The scope of these projects

includes the development of 13 modules and at least 13 supplemental learning materials. In addition, the university is expected to produce 14 webinar sessions for the Core Business Development Session.

For both projects, 85 participants are anticipated and its completion is targeted on December 31, 2022, or earlier.

BU-RCSMED give thanks; offered 1-day free beauty, wellness activity to partners

Incelebration of the National Teacher’s Month, Bicol University-Regional Center for Science and Mathematics Education (BU-RCSMED) sponsored a one-day pampering activity on October 3, 2022 at the College of Science Building 3.

BU faculty and staff enjoyed a free haircut, foot spa, pedicure, manicure, half-body massage, and eyebrows shaping, in partnership with the Evegate Salon of Legazpi, through the approval of the BU Office of the Vice President for Research Development and

Extension (OVPRDE) with Dr. Luis O. Amano and Office of the President (OP) with BU President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas.

Aside from BU Science and Mathematics faculty members, who provided technical expertise to the different trainings of RCSMED, the activity was also participated in by non-teaching personnel who were involved in the different operations of the center. Those who availed of the free services also received fresh roses as a token of appreciation for their unwavering support to

BU-RCSMED.

This event served as a way to thank individuals who have been supporting the Center’s initiatives for more than six years, beginning with the adoption of Resolution No. 094 series of 2016, which established the BU Regional Center for Science and Mathematics Education Development (BU-RCSMED) on June 29, 2016; redefining the niche of BU Regional Science Teaching Center (BU-RSTC).

Rest & Relaxation - Bicol University faculty and staff enjoy a one-day pampering activity sponsored by the Bicol University - Regional Center for Science and Mathematics Education (BU-RCSMED) in celebration of National Teacher’s Month.

A fellowship night was also held in order to foster camaraderie among the attendees, guests, academicians, and LGU members. In attendance as special guests were also The PRO5 Combo, a cover band from the Philippine National Police (PNP) V. Julius Caesar Martinez, a faculty member from the College of Arts and Letters, served as the program host of the conference.

75th UNAP first day

The morning conference formally commenced with an overview and presentation of participants by Atty. Alex B. Nepomuceno, Dean of the College of Social Sciences and Philosophy and Overall Event Manager of UNAP 75th, held at The Pepperland Hotel, October 24, 2022.

This was followed by welcome remarks from Dr. Ramona Ines B. Rañeses, UNAP Vice President. Engr. Devar N. Robrigado, President of the BU General Alumni Association Inc. (BUGAAI) and Alumni Regent, who made the introduction of the keynote speaker, Hon. Juan Miguel F. Zubiri, Senate President of the House of Senate, who virtually delivered his keynote speech through a video message.

Roderick C. Cruz, UNAP President, delivered his welcome remarks, while acknowledging the participants, particularly the host school - BU, and the association for the conduct of the conference. Meanwhile, Hon. Francis Joseph G. Escudero was also virtually present through a video message, to deliver a special congratulatory greetings.

For the 1st Plenary Speaker, Dr. Clarita R. Carlos, the National Security Adviser and Director General of the National Security Council Secretariat, discussed Geopolitics, Human and Food Security. Her lecture engaged researchers from different fields of expertise to seek her wisdom on certain issues while focusing on the nation’s national security of the nation.

During lunch break, Dr. Cynthia O. Mendoza, a faculty member from the BU Jesse M. Robredo Institute of Governance and Development, serenaded the participants with her piano renditions.

The conference resumed after a cultural dance presentation performed by the BU Magayon Dance Troupe. Another special greeting was shown through a video message from Hon. Joseph Victor G. Ejercito, where he showed his support for the UNAP anniversary and conference.

For the 2nd Plenary Speaker, Nong C. Rangasa, Executive Director of the Local Climate Change Adaptation for Development (LCCAD), discussed the Mainstreaming Climate Risk and Disaster Resilience Framework to LGUs and Academic Institutions; followed by an open forum. Participants were able

to ask Rangasa about timely issues and concerns, particularly those in Albay.

To recognize his outstanding contributions as a University President, akin to Gen. Carlos P. Romulo, BU President Mascariñas was awarded the UNAP Outstanding University President.

After a series of photo opportunities, UNAP President Cruz presented the Organizational Meeting of UNAP Luzon Chapter while engaging the participants in the essential causes and advocacies of UNAP internationally.

Congressman’s Night

In the evening, a pre-birthday celebration of the Albay 2nd District Congressman, Hon. Joey Sarte Salceda, was held with a UNAP Fellowship Night at The Pepperland Hotel.

While the attendees dined, BU students from CAL, CSSP, and the Institute of Physical Education, Sports, and Recreation (IPESR) were showcased. Due to a conflict in his schedule, the congressman was unable to physically attend the celebration. Hence, the celebration continued, and messages of support and birthday greetings were delivered by the UNAP officers, committee, and guests. The participants enjoyed the music festivities and performances. Some were also able to take the dancefloor while grooving to the loud 90s music. The presence of the good Hon. Congressman

UNAP closing: Tree planting, parallel sessions

To mark the occasion as well as advocate for mother nature, a Ceremonial Peace Tree Planting was held at IPESR the next day. Some UNAP officers, guests, and committee head led the tree planting and each sapling were named after them, to honor their contribution to the university. Meanwhile, a simultaneous presentation of six thematic areas were ongoing at the Pepperland Hotel. In the afternoon, the closing program began, hosted by Dr. Roldan Cabiles, faculty of the BU Open University.

First group tackled topics relevant to Climate Science, Monitoring, Assessment, and Early Warning. Second group was for researchers for Sustainable Development and Peace and Security, while third focused on Ecosystem Sustainability and Food Security. Infrastructure Development, Trade and Industry were the theme for the fourth group and Governance, Innovation, and Human Development for the fifth. Lastly, the thematic area for the sixth group was Climate Change, Engineering, and Technology. As the international conference comes to a conclusion, the closing program started with a congratulatory support from the LGU Legazpi,

represented by Carlos A. Ante, Legazpi City Administrator.

To give knowledge on harnessing the power of functional food towards food security, BU’s very own Balik Scientist, Dr. Myra O. Villareal presented her ideas as an experienced scientist and as the third and final plenary speaker. Her talk involves the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations and the current reality people are facing.

She also shared how healthy a purple sweet tomato can be as an alternative food which can be considered to somehow address the problem in poverty. After an insightful lecture, the scientist was followed by the Regional Director of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), Dir. Agnes M. Espinas-Tolentino, to present the agency’s statement of commitment for human and food security. She also mentioned the eight-point agenda of NEDA and its continued support to the conference’s cause as well as realizing the purpose of international conferences and organization.

The international conference and promoting the hospitality and rich culture of the province of Albay.On behalf of BU President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, Atty. Joseph L. Bartolata, VP for Administration and Finance (VPAF), delivered his message thanks The VP mentioned a partnership that can bring manifold benefits to the university, such as the ongoing UNAP. He also mentioned the continued strong ties to the LGU and Province of Albay, that both can be considered as shared resources.

He added that this importance may also share knowledge, by offering free lectures to stakeholders and other agencies and institutions. A surprise recognition was given to Atty. Alex B. Nepomuceno, as the overall manager and organizer of the 75TH UNAP and Conference. He was invited onstage with his wife, Dr. Agnes Nepomuceno, Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Letters to receive the recognition.

After another set of cultural performances and song numbers, a message of acknowledgment was made by Dr. Ramona Ines B. Rañeses. She further acknowledged everyone’s effort in the fruition of UNAP. Another surprise announcement was made where she declared, on behalf of the UNAP Board of Trustees, that Atty. Nepomuceno is appointed to be the UNAP President of the Luzon Chapter.

The CSSP Dean made his oath of office, with the presence and support of his wife, Dr. Agnes, and UNAP officers. The celebration continued as the attendees enjoyed the delicious food, good music, and rich cultural performances. The governor’s night was facilitated by Edgardo L. Besmonte, Head of the TIDS, BUEMD

Towards Future-Proofing Human & Food Security - The United Nations Association of the Philippines (UNAP) in partnership with Bicol University hold the 75th Anniversary of UNAP alongside a research conference with the theme “Future-Proofing Human & Food Security”.