September 2022 BUzette

PRESIDENT’S OUTBOX

Shaping the BU Hiraya Way | BU admin undergoes 3-day Foresight, Futures Thinking Workshop

As we celebrate this year’s World Teacher’s Day in the midst of an ongoing pandemic, we offer the highest salutation to our teach ers – especially those who belong to the Bicol University family! I know your hardships and sacrifices have been magnified with the sudden shift in the education landscape. Yet, you tirelessly and passionately continue to guide the journey of our students as we navigate a new learning environment with unfamiliar platforms and technology. Indeed, your teachers are living testaments of how the human spirit cannot simply give up or accept failure – because they dream big dreams for you and for the world. In spite of their limitations and their own personal struggles, they continue to fight the scourge of ignorance, and indifference amidst a growing cynicism from a jaded generation. For this, and countless other reasons, we say thank you, dear teachers, across the world, and especially the teaching personnel – the faculty of Bicol University across its units and colleges! . Akin to savvy tour guides, teachers provide the much needed knowledge and wisdom to take their travelers on their unique learning journeys. They provide inspiration, encouraging those who face a steep learning curve, to continue the journey despite the winding roads and potholes along the way. Tour guides remind the travelers that learning is a journey. As such, “arriving at a destination” is not the end goal as learning is a continuous process.

To prepare Bicol University’s future direction in the next 30 years, the university key officials, deans, associate deans, directors, and heads of offices and units underwent a three-day workshop on Foresight and Future Thinking dubbed Shaping the BU Hiraya Way, held at the Patio de San Jose, Malilipot Albay, on September 14 to 16, 2022.

To make sure that foresight and futures thinking methods and tools are integrated, the activity allowed active participation and engagement with the participants in understanding the current landscape and potential trajectory of the university, as well as in planning their respective offices and units.

The first day of the workshop sought to understand and introduce the foresight and futures thinking while integrating foresight techniques into the present planning and policymaking processes, as presented by one of the resource speakers - Dr. Lizan PeranteCalina, Dean of the Graduate School of Public and Development Management, Development Management of the Philippines

(DAP-GSPDM). Activities and workshop on scenario-building were incorporated.

The second day focused on the foresight and futures thinking tools and methodologies discussed by Dr. Reginald G. Ugaddan, Director and College Secretary of the Center for Public Administration and Governance Education at UPNCPAG, and Project Director of the UP-NCPAG Governance Futures Lab University of the Philippines, Diliman.

On the last day of the workshop, Dr. Kristoffer B. Berse led the identification and evaluation of future scenarios that stirred up conversations of future education, work, technology, services, training, and research of the university.

The concluding program presented the final blueprints of the university. Six teams were created to plan their final presentations. Each team presented their foresight and futures thinking plan for the university while applying the components of SWOT analysis alongside strategy identification and backcasting.

Tzu Chi grants scholarship to 25 BUeños

Tzu Chi grants scholarship to 25 BUeños

Inan effort to help Bicol University students who are deserving yet disadvantaged in their educational pursuits, Tzu Chi Philippines has pledged to provide financial scholarships to 25 BUeños from the College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF) and Tabaco Campus (TC) during the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing held on September 23, 2022.

Present in the MOA signing were BU President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, Atty. Daryl Redoblado, Legal Officer, and Antonio Tan, Head Volunteer of Tzu Chi Philippines.

As stipulated in the agreement, Tzu Chi will conduct the selection of scholars while the university, through the Student Services office, shall endorse 14 applicants from CAF and 11 in TC who are deserving students and has not received any other major

scholarship grants. The select scholars will receive a monthly stipend of ₱1,200/monthly for 10 months, book allowance worth ₱2,000/semester, internet allowance worth ₱500/monthly for 10 months, uniform allowance for 1st and 3rd years and field trips, trainings, and seminars worth ₱1,000/ semester, project allowance of ₱1,500/ semester and monthly transportation allowance of ₱1,500. The transportation allowance is only eligible for scholars who commute daily to school or lives in a dorm or other type of student dormitory.

For the graduating students, they will additionally receive a thesis allowance of ₱2,000/semester and a ₱1,000 graduation fee allowance.

To avail these benefits, the student must maintain a 2.25 or 82% GWA with no failing grades, incomplete marks, or drops, and should have no

more than three absences specifically in Humanities classes per academic year. They must not have any negative academic or community records, have changed schools or courses, or have transferred. Additionally, none of their relatives must have a criminal record, engaged in dishonest behavior, or given inaccurate information during a transaction. Additionally, the student must not be married or become pregnant or impregnate anyone.

In addition, the student must be a bonafide incoming 2nd or 3rd year Filipino student of the university and must belong to the indigent or economically-challenged family that should not exceed ₱500,000 gross annual family income. Their good moral character certificate must be provided by the University Registrar’s Office or the Office of the Student Affairs.

Lightening the Load - To alleviate the burdens of students who are struggling financially Tzu Chi Philippines pledge financial scholarships to 25 BUeños from Bicol University College of Agriculture and Forestry (BUCAF), and Bicol University Tabaco Campus (BUTC) in a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing on September 23, 2022.

For the Office of the President, Dr. Baby Boy Benjamin D. Nebres III represented the team and proposed a borderless university. Meanwhile, for the research team, Dr. Elmer Lorenzana presented a value-driven research engagement followed by an engine of economic development for the extension group, as presented by Prof. Rowena Zoilo. For the planning team, Engr. Anna Abante focused on resource generation. Atty.

Joseph L. Bartolata, for the administrative section, presented sound fiscal management. Lastly, the team of academic deans and directors was proposed by Prof. Jocelyn Serrano highlighting the problems, proposed solutions in instruction and the imaginable future set-up in teaching and learning.

Afterward, Prof. Alwin Joseph Maceres, one of the organizers, delivered a wrap-up

conclusion of the event. The workshop was spearheaded by the BU Futures Thinking and Strategic Foresight Committee headed by Dr. Samuel C. Bobiles, with membersProf. Carlos V. Cortez, Prof. Alwin Joseph M. Maceres, Dr. Dimson M. Rivero, and Prof. Pee Jay N. Gealone, and secretariatsAbigail Jo M. Abainza, who also served as the lady of ceremonies, Riza Garcia, Aliana Joy Carillo, and Christine Manrique

CatSU eyes BU for education cooperation partnership

To strengthen, promote, and develop academic disciplines and institutional linkage for education cooperation, Bicol University (BU), through President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, and the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) also represented by its President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, inked a Memorandum of Understanding on September 27, 2022.

Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan, VP for Academic Affairs, and Dr. Edie S. See, VP for Planning and Development, were also present at the ceremonies.

In particular for the nursing, medical, and juris doctor programs, this cooperation will run a faculty and student exchange program. The university officials will also meet for academic consultations, participation in seminars, and extension activities. A joint research partnership between the

two institutions was also agreed upon, and faculty and research resources as well as library services will be shared. This will open the door for the exchange of educational resources, research publications, and instructional materials.

Additionally, they will take part in promotion, information exchange and dissemination, contact facilitation, and peer review of research outputs involving subject-matter experts. The institutions will also look into options for publishing research, co-sponsoring national and/or international conferences, and engaging in academic exchanges in areas of shared interest.

By agreeing to serve as the primary source of information and a forum for user discussion on current HEI global activities, through university portals, the partnership will also provide the

opportunity to submit articles for consideration for publication in the appropriate journals as well as the dissemination of reports and papers of interest.

Both institutions will provide knowledge in their specialties, which may include plant science, environmental science, or agricultural. Along with other advantageous collaborations, both parties will also exchange innovations developed via research.

Furthermore, BU has agreed to cross-enrol CatSU’s incoming law, nursing, and medical students, as well as grant permission for those programs to use BU’s Tertiary Hospital for clinical training. The program will last for an extendable five years, as agreed upon by both universities.

Allies in Education - Bicol University (BU) through Univeristy President Arnulfo M. Mascariñas partners with Catanduanes State University President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza to strengthen, promote, and develop academic displines and linkages in both Universities.

BU Hiraya Way | P1

In the concluded September 2022 Registered Electrical Engineer (REE) Licensure Examination and Registered Master Electrician (RME), Bicol University produced 75 passers out of 90 examinees, with two exceptional takers in the RME who placed in the top 8 and 10 ranks. They are classmates who recently graduated from BU College of Engineering (CENG) and claimed to be average joes who, nevertheless, catapulted their way to the top.

Acads + Sports = Topnotcher?

Exercising the body is just as important as exercising the mind, as attested by these topnotchers who were not only intelligent but also talented athletes.

Daniel Ezra D. Octeza, 21, who finished top 8 with an impressive 91.50% average, shared that as a

student, he learned through lectures, experiences, and from the people around him. Octeza admitted in an interview that he wasn’t exactly the type of student who enjoyed joining groups.

“But I am proud to be a member of RAJE, a band that was founded when its members were still in grade 12, whose members are all from BU. I am also proud to have been a part of the Quizzers who represented BU [Electrical Engineering] department in a quiz show (and won 2nd runnerup at regional and national level), and a team member of the BUCENG basketball team.”

However, Ryan Cristian P. Dagsil, 23, the top 10 standee who scored a commendable 90.50% average, mentioned that he was a typical student who enjoys learning and imparting knowledge. Similar to Octeza, Dagsil is also an athlete who represented his college as the “Tekong” server in Sepak Takraw and he occasionally plays basketball as well.

Aside from being student athletes, both were also recognized in the field of academics. They were included in the Dean’s Listers, where Octeza joined the President’s Listers in his later years and finished with a Cum Laude latin honor.

Studying style reveal

While both burn the midnight oil, their studying strategies differ. When asked how their studying styles are compared to others, Dagsil responded that by learning from the point of view of their former topnotchers and smart classmates, he saw how they approached it and applied it to his own methods by formulating his own.

“... that led me to be exempted in a few final exams during college, and now lead me to the top,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Octeza said that he is unlike other students who study by pulling an all-nighter.

“I often hear stories from my friends that they only had 2 or 3 hours of sleep. And I thought I’d be left behind because I couldn’t put in the amount of work they do. Because staying up too late would cause my migraine to act up and I would be less productive. The latest I can study is up to 1am in the morning. Then, if necessary, I would wake up at 5am that same morning to study again.”

He continued by saying that in order to be effective, he plans and organizes his studies and breaks. He adheres to the maxim “work hard, play hard,” by rewarding himself after a demanding study session, whereas Dagsil prefers the strategies of “studying smarter” and “studying harder.”

Faith, above all

Although both neither expecting to be topnotchers, Dagsil’s friends and peers were already anticipating him to be a topnotch.

“Because I’m not aware of what I’m capable of, that always lead me to continue doubting myself. I’m not expecting to be with the topnotchers because it’s an overwhelming mountain to climb and it scares me, but it’s not a reason for me not to try. Instead, I plan how to climb that mountain without losing myself to test how far I can go,” Dagsil said.

On the other hand, Octeza admitted that he had not gotten enough sleep and was exhausted because of his excitement and anxiousness on the day of the exam.

“But by God’s grace, I was able to answer well during the exam, though naturally I was unsure of some items. I am just overwhelmingly grateful that God blessed my efforts in studying and gave me this gift of being the 8th placer in the exams. All glory be to Him,” he said.

Inspirations are key

When asked who their inspirations are, Octeza said that they are his family, especially his parents. Despite the loss of his father, he is grateful to his mother for her unwavering love to the family.

“My [late] father, who did his very best to provide for our family and not let us experience the hardships he had in the past. And most importantly, for leading us

to Christ. I am also inspired by my sister and brother, who also support me in little ways that may seem trivial, but have a big impact. If my family is proud of me, then I won’t care what the world thinks,” he shared.

While Dagsil’s number one inspiration is God, to whom he dedicates his success. His family and friends are also his sources of inspiration.

“I said to Him during Exam Prayer that He gives me talent that I didn’t ask for, so I want Him to be with me at my side until the last day because He is with me during my review process. Also, to the Man that I look up to, my mental image of victory, the Person who always gives me advice when everything is heavy.”

Advice from a topnotch

To all BUeños who will take any bar exams, the topnotch RMEs shared a heartfelt piece of advice that they believe helped them in achieving what they earned today.

Octeza said that the greatest keys are consistency and faith

“Consistency in studying for the exam, for there will always be times when you will just not have the motivation to study at all. Don’t give in to that feeling and don’t lose sight of your goal. Faith that all your efforts and sacrifices as you study will all be worth it in the end. Every problem you solve, no matter how simple, is a step forward towards your goal. So don’t be discouraged that you still

have a lot to learn and study. Just take one step at a time. You will arrive at your destination. You will definitely reap what you sow. Keep moving forward. As Ranchoddas once said, ‘Chase excellence, and success will chase you’”

While Dagsil reminds the takers that you are your own enemy, so you need to conquer yourself first.

“Acknowledge that you’re not the best, embrace your flaws, learn yourself, study yourself and more importantly, forgive yourself. This is my first step that led me ahead to others. Then after that, your review process will be light and enjoyable. Don’t rely on motivation and inspiration because it fades away, but instead use it wisely. Rely on your work ethic and your study system. Consistency is the key, also rest with your comfort individual. Talk to them, it’s a rule.” | by Arnold

C. Noda

The select scholars will receive a monthly stipend of Php 1,200/monthly for 10 months, book allowance worth Php 2,000/semester, internet allowance worth Php500/monthly for 10 months, uniform allowance for 1st and 3rd years and field trips, trainings, and seminars worth Php 1,000/semester, project allowance of Php 1,500/semester and monthly transportation allowance of Php 1,500. The transportation allowance is only eligible for scholars who commute daily to school or lives in a dorm or other type of student dormitory.

For the graduating students, they will additionally receive a thesis allowance of Php 2,000/semester and a Php 1,000 graduation fee allowance.

To avail these benefits, the student must maintain a 2.25 or 82% GWA with no failing grades, incomplete marks, or drops, and should have no more than three absences specifically in Humanities classes per academic year. They must not have any negative academic or community records, have changed schools or courses, or have transferred. Additionally, none of their relatives must have a criminal record,

engaged in dishonest behavior, or given inaccurate information during a transaction. Additionally, the student must not be married or become pregnant or impregnate anyone.

In addition, the student must be a bonafide incoming 2nd or 3rd year Filipino student of the university and must belong to the indigent or economically-challenged family that should not exceed Php 500,000 gross annual family income. Their good moral character certificate must be provided by the University Registrar’s Office or the Office of the Student Affairs.

University of Rizal System visits BU to benchmark

In preparation for their application for the Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) and refer document proposals, the University of Rizal System (URS) held a benchmarking activity to the Bicol University Graduate School (BUGS) – Open University (OU) and College of Medicine (CM) on September 20,

2022.

As one of the institutions awarded the COPC by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), BUGS-OU revealed their best practices on how they ensured compliance with the certification requirements and the preparation of the required paperwork for the application.

With this opportunity, URS also visited BUCM to assess the university’s readiness for CHED’s issuing of the Permit to Operate the Doctor of Medicine program. They made BU as a point of reference in drafting documentation in an effort to provide the similar program in URS for the next academic year.

Taking Notes - University of Rizal System learn best practices from Bicol University Open University (BUOU) in preparation for their application for the Certicate of Program Compliance (COPC).

CatSU | P3

IPESR’s PATHFit 1 trains 41 HEIs, SUCs

An overwhelming 41 higher education institutions (HEIs) and state universities and colleges (SUCs) instructors and students across the country participated in the national training on the new tertiary physical education curriculum spearheaded by the Institute of Physical Education, Sports, and Recreation (IPESR) on Physical Activity towards Health and Fitness 1 (PATHFit 1), which was conducted at the Albay Astrodome, on September 16 to 18, 2022.

In partnership with the BU Extension Management Division, CHED, and the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC), the activity welcomed 110 participants from: Adventist Medical Center College, Antipolo National High School, Ateneo de Naga University, Bataan Peninsula State University, Bataan Peninsula State University - Orani Campus, Benguet State University, Calabanga Community College, Calao National High School , Camarines Norte State College, Camarines Sur Polytechnic College, Catanduanes State University, Ceguera Technological Colleges, Community College of Manito, Computer Communication Development Institute – Sorsogon Campus, Daraga Community College, Felix Alfelor Sr. Foundation College – Sipocot, Camarines Sur, Libon Community College, Mariners’ Polytechnic Colleges Foundation - Naga City, Mariners’ Polytechnic

Colleges Foundation of Legaspi City, Naga College Foundation, Northwest Samar State University, NYK TDG Maritime Academy, Oas Community College, Partido State University, Polangui Community College, Saint Francis Integrated National High School, Siena College of Tigaon, Sorsogon College of Criminology, Inc., Sorsogon State University, Southern Masbate Roosevelt College, Inc., Tabaco National High School, Tiwi Community College, Unibersidad de Sta. Isabel, University of Negros Occidental - Recol, University of Nueva Caceres, University of Santo Tomas - Legazpi, Veritas College of Irosin, Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation, Visayas State University - Tolosa, and Visayas State University – Villaba.

In the opening program, the launching was graced by the presence of Prof. Carina L. Sales, IPESR Director, Dr. Amelia A. Dorosan, VP for Academic Affairs, and Atty. Septon Dela Cruz, CHED Regional Director. Afterward, the training proper commenced with an introduction to PATHFIT 1, led by one of the resource persons, Prof. Rachel Cate P. Piguerra, followed by the plenary discussions on physical fitness, its concepts, and assessments presented by Prof. Jarmi Diane M. Mandane, University Fitness Coordinator.

In conjunction with this, the topics focused on physical activity recommendations and physical activity logs

Training proper was held in two activityspecific skills: non-locomotor skills and locomotor skills. Trainers Prof. Randy T. Austria, Arevalo, Piguerra, Wilven Mendoza, and Mandane led the proper postures, positions, and movements in this activity.

After a lively Zumba exercise, the second day resumed for the plenary sessions on the third topic on healthy eating habits, as discussed by Prof. Austria, associate director of IPESR, and the subject of eating practices was presented by a special guest and resource person/trainer Prof. Jo-ann Grecia, an alumna from the University of the Philippines. She continued her discussion on the activity-specific skills on mobility training and bodyweight exercises.

To give a clearer understanding of the activity, she further presented the introduction and background of PATHFit 2-4 and continued with the activity proper in resistance training.

On the last day, the national physical education event continued with the plenary session and the PATHFit 1 Syllabus. In the afternoon, the trainers held a fitness or sporting event training challenge for the participants and concluded with a culminating activity.

presented by Prof. Arriane Mae S. Arevalo and the exercise variables and principles by Prof. Piguerra.

Staying Active - College instructors and students across the country participate in a national training conducted by Bicol University Institute of Physical Education, Sports, and Recreation (IPESR) dubbed Physical Activity towards Health and Fitness 1 (PATHFit 1).

In its goal to promote proper sanitation and personal hygiene to children and parents of barangays Manumbalay and Malobago, Manito, Albay, Bicol University College of Science (BUCS) – Biology Department, through Project SoleMate, in partnership with BU Symbiosis and in coordination with the Rural Health Unit of Manito, conducted an outreach project titled “PrACTiCE Extension Program: Proper Handwashing and Sanitation Seminar and Distribution of Slippers and Hygiene Kits,” which took place on September 7, 2022.

The department traveled to barangay Manumbalay, Manito, in the morning, and continued the activity in the afternoon to barangay Malobago, Manito.

The outreach program aims to prevent and control soiltransmitted parasite infestations in Manito, Albay. Ascaris lumbricoides, also known simply

as “Ascaris,” whipworm (Trichuris trichiura), and hookworm (Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus) are examples of the intestinal worms that infect humans and are spread through contaminated soil.

The majority of cases of soiltransmitted helminth (STH) infection are found in warm, humid settings with inadequate sanitation and hygiene, including temperate zones during the warm months. These STHs are categorized as neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) because they can cause severe health conditions yet are treatable or curable, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

But in order to prevent these infestations in the target communities, Prof. Phil V. Morano, PrACTiCE program leader, led a proper handwashing demonstration to the children ages of 1-7 years old of both barangays

dept

and engaged them with parlor games and rewards.

Afterwards, a brief seminar on common plants with anthelminthic properties, used to treat infections caused by parasitic worms, was also discussed for the parent’s awareness. They also received educational fliers about anthelmintic plants.

The organizers then gave out slippers and hygiene supplies to the children, since they are more prone in contracting STHs, while being assisted by their guardians.

The project would not be possible without the support of the BS Biology students and alumni, who donated the footwear and sanitary kits, and Prof. Jocelyn E. Serrano, CS Dean, who helped in the distribution slippers and kits as well as the discussion in the anthelmintic plants, together with the BUCS faculty members, personnel, student leaders, and volunteers.

To prevent soil parasite infestation, CS-Bio

advocates hygiene, sanitation in Manito, Albay

Extending A Hand - Bicol University College of Science (BUCS) - Biology Department in partnership with BU Symbiosis distribute sanitary kits, and footwear to residents of Malobago, Manito to combat soil transmitted parasite infestations on September 7, 2022.