2020-2021 Ciencia y Virtud Graduation Supplement

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF CENTRO ESCOLAR UNIVERSITY www.ceu.edu.ph

Graduation Supplement 2020-2021

ABOUT CEU

CIENCIA Y VIRTUD Ciencia y Virtud or Science and Virtue is the life-long philosophy of Centro Escolar University.

2020-2021 GRADUATION SUPPLEMENT First Issue covers the first semester of the school year and is published in February. Second Issue covers the second semester and summer and is published in October. The Graduation Supplement covers the entire school year and is published during graduation.

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF CENTRO ESCOLAR UNIVERSITY www.ceu.edu.ph

Graduation Supplement 2020-2021

ABOUT THE COVER “Bukang Liwayway” is a digital art made by Wilfredo Caseres, Jr., a Grade 11 Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) student of Centro Escolar Integrated School (CEIS). It won First Place in the Manila Bulletin 2020 Sketchfest.

EDITORIAL BOARD Editor-in-Chief Dr. Rosana D. Lucero Associate Editors Ms. Giana Anella G. Atienza Ms. Gelli G. Esguerra Art Director Ms. Jessica Bravo Contributors Dr. Jean Ramirez Ms. Sienna Rose L. Mabuti Dr. Charito M. Bermido Ms. Elaine Marie M. Salem Dr. Maria Donnabelle U. Dean Mrs. Roselle Lopez Mr. PJ Sheed Oleja Mr. Wilbur S. Calo Mr. Eduard Riparip Dr. Carlito B. Olaer Ms. Richel D. Punzalan Dr. Ramil Cuerdo Mr. Jhayson V. Tadeo Dr. Ma. Cristina D. Padolina Consultant Dr. Erna V. Yabut Acknowledgements Dr. Olivia M. Limuaco, Dr. Cecilia Santiago, Mr. Jun Poloyapoy, Dr. Corazon Andoy, Dr. Ma. Eleanor C. Espinas, Ms. Frencher Riegneth R. Borja, Mrs. Juanita P. Alamillo Marketing Communications Department Teaching and Learning Technology Department

With four campuses and over 50 academic programs, CEU has gone far beyond its founders’ vision, laying claim to the distinction as the only higher education institution to have the following array of institutional awards for quality.

CEU was founded on June 3, 1907 as the “Centro Escolar de Señoritas” by two visionaries, Librada Avelino and Carmen de Luna, who were inspired by the patriotic movement to nationalize schools.

They were cognizant of a need for a center of learning for Filipino women focused on teaching ideal womanhood, intelligent citizenry and democratic leadership that would instill in them the tenets of science and virtue. Kindergarten, elementary, general secondary, music and home arts courses were the first programs of instruction included in the curriculum.

The school was granted university status by the Philippine government in 1932 with Doña Librada as President.

VISION CEU is the University of first Choice - the leading higher education institution fostering excellence in the advancement of knowledge while engendering personal integrity and social responsibility.

MISSION It is committed to: • Provide a rich and stimulating learning environment to prepare students to become productive, innovative and value-driven professionals and entrepreneurs committed to nation building in the context of one world; • Enhance the development of higher education through exemplar academic programs and collaborative practices; • Contribute to the promotion of human wellbeing through high-quality research, and community service programs.

CORE VALUES The core values that serve as guiding principles of the University are: V - aluing others, caring for them and empowering them A - ccountability, integrity, and trustworthiness L - ifelong learning as individuals and as an organization U - nity, teamwork, and loyalty E - xcellence in all endeavors S - ocial responsibility as citizens of the Filipino nation and of the world

THE SPIRIT LIVES ON: THE 2021 CULMINATING ACTIVITIES VIRTUAL STAGING

by Ramil L. Cuerdo

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he COVID-19 pandemic that surely altered everyone’s plans and lives last 2020 brought so many firsts in our usual scholastic traditions. For the first time ever, there were no physical celebrations held: no live baccalaureate masses, no Sampaguita Interlude, and heartbreakingly, no #RoadtoManilaHotel for the graduating students!

But as with previous experiences with adversities, the Escolarian spirit of resilience has proven time and again that no matter what, our traditions are what makes us truly proud Escolarians, our glimmer of hope in this seemingly bleak time. Hence, in a bid to lend some semblance of the festive airs of the pre-pandemic past, CEU held last November the first ever virtual baccalaureate mass and commencement exercises to celebrate our 2020 graduates.

This year, we are again bringing a fresh take

on these cherished traditions. The baccalaureate mass for graduating students will be once again held online, to be participated in not just by School representatives but also those who are at home.

Also, for the first time ever, the much-anticipated Sampaguita Interlude will be staged virtually.

Having been interrupted last year, the unique Escolarian rites will come alive once again on its 82nd staging and will fill our eyes and ears with the all-familiar flower formations and Filipino melodies of El Collar de Sampaguita, Sampaguitang Mabango, and La Flor de Manila. These activities will serve as the prelude to the grand finale of the school year, the 111th Commencement Exercises of Centro Escolar University.

CEU Makati shall have the virtual graduation on July 23, 2021 while CEU Manila and CEU Malolos shall hold the ceremonies on July 16, 2021 composed of two clusters. Cluster 1 is

composed of the School of Accountancy and Management whose graduates are joined by the first batch of K12 products finishing courses in BSBA major in Management and in Marketing Management for three years and two summer terms only. Joining Cluster 1 are graduates from School of Dentistry, School of Education-Liberal Arts-Music-Social Work, School of Nutrition and Hospitality Management, School of Science and Technology, School of Medicine, and the Graduate School. Cluster 2 is composed of School of Medical Technology, School of Optometry, School of Pharmacy, and Centro Escolar University – Malolos.

All of these will be broadcasted online, via official CEU social media channels but just the same, will be as memorable and special to our graduates and their families as they did in the past.

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CEU CONFERS HONORARY DOCTOR OF LAWS DEGREE ON CHIEF JUSTICE GESMUNDO

by Eduard M. Riparip, J.D

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ecognized for his outstanding work in the field of law and justice administration and his exemplary service to Philippine society, Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo was conferred the Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, degree by Centro Escolar University on July 8, 2021 at the Manila Hotel.

Gesmundo, a career jurist, was appointed as the 27th Chief Justice of the Philippines by President Rodrigo Duterte in April 2021. He is an expert on remedial law and has extensively advocated for landmark reforms in the judiciary such as the Revised Rules on Civil Procedure, Evidence, and the Law Student Practice Rule (Rule 138-A).

In the citation for the conferment of the honorary degree, the chief magistrate was lauded “for spearheading landmark and cutting-edge reforms in the administration of justice, particularly in trial procedures, and enabling the Philippine judiciary to adapt to the changing landscape making them more accessible to all citizens of the country.”

“The CEU regardfully grants this honor [Doctor of Laws, honoris causa]. In the 114 years since its establishment in 1907, the University has given the honorary degree to only 37 individuals who, by their exemplary life work, personified the philosophy of the University, Ciencia y Virtud,” said Dr. Ma. Cristina D. Padolina, CEU President and Chief Academic Officer, in her speech during the conferment.

The honorary degree Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, “is the highest distinction that the University bestows [upon an individual].” Former United Nations Secretary General Carlos P. Romulo, Former President Fidel V. Ramos, and Former President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III are some of the recipients of the said honorary degree.

Advice to the CEU law graduates After receiving his honorary degree, Chief Justice Gesmundo delivered his commencement speech to the Juris Doctor graduating class of the CEU School of Law and Jurisprudence, which he was a law professor, teaching law subjects such as Remedial Law, Practice Court, and Introduction to Law. According to Gesmundo, the first lesson in law school is that lawyering is a service.

“It is a service for others in need of justice. It is a service for others in search of truth. While lawyering will not leave you penniless, money is not its end,” Chief Justice Gesmundo advised the graduating class.

He also reminded them that public service and administration of justice remain the goal of lawyering, and that it does not give the lawyers entitlement.

“It is not a license to be superior and be condescending. It does not always make you look better. It should not make you think you are always right,” Gesmundo emphasized in his speech.

He also added that “lawyering does not exploit a person's ignorance. It flourishes in keeping people informed and aware of their rights.”

Photo shows (L-R) Retired Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Josue N. Bellosillo, Dean of the CEU School of Law and Jurisprudence; Chairman Basilio C. Yap, Chairman of the CEU Board of Directors; Hon. Alexander G. Gesmundo, Chief Justice of the Republic of the Philippines; Dr. Aldrin A. Darilag, Commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education; Justice Zenaida V. Elepaño, Officer-in-Charge of the Legal Education Board; Mr. Claro G. Gesmundo, brother of Chief Justice Gesmundo; and Dr. Ma. Cristina D. Padolina, CEU President and Chief Academic Officer

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Commendation of the Chief Justice Meanwhile, the highest official of the judiciary commended CEU Law through its Office of the Legal Aid for receiving Level 2 Certification pursuant to Administrative Matter No. 19-03-24-SC, pertaining to the law student practice.

“This speaks highly of the School's Juris Doctor program, which aims to broaden the knowledge and skills of its law students, enabling them to immerse themselves in the practice of law,” praised the Chief Justice.

Chief Justice Gesmundo obtained his law degree from the Ateneo Law School in 1984 and passed the Bar the following year. He rose from the ranks to become the highest judicial officer of the Philippine government.

In 1985, he became Trial Attorney in the Office of the Solicitor General and was awarded as Most Outstanding Solicitor. He was Commissioner of the Presidential Commission on Good Government in 1998 until 2001. In 2002, he was promoted to Assistant Solicitor General until his appointment to the Sandiganbayan in 2005.

The ceremony was attended by members of the CEU Board of Directors led by Chairman Basilio C. Yap, members of the Administrative Council spearheaded by Dr. Padolina, officials of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, Legal Education Board, and Commission on Higher Education, CEU Law administrators represented by its dean, Retired Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Josue N. Bellosillo, and the Chief Justice’s family members. ###

MESSAGE FROM THE UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT spirit that was cultivated in you during the year. This will serve you well through your life. There are so much more to learn, some because you have not gotten around to them and more are knowledge and techniques still to be discovered. You may feel that because of the limitations of the online instructional modality that was used in the past year, that you failed to learn some principles, concepts and skills. There is plenty of time and opportunities to learn all those in the future and you will, because you have developed the right attitude and the proficiency for lifelong learning.

Photo credit to Dr. Padolina

GREETINGS! Greetings of joy!

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he April 19, 2021 issue of Time magazine had on its cover a student, two hands grasping a book and a laptop on her lap, gazing at a distance with the caption, “The Lost Year.”

If I may share with you my own attitude about learning - it is that everyone has something to teach me and that every day I have something to learn. Seek and be open to those learning moments all through your life.

Let me ask you, the graduating class of 2021. Was the past year a lost year for you?

Some of you would probably agree that it was a lost year. Some may say, "In some ways." I surmise, however, that most of you would not agree that it was a totally lost year. I make that conclusion from reading some of the comments you have posted or you have made in the various conversations or surveys we have conducted.

Saying that the last school year was a lost year is looking at a half-filled glass and saying that it is half empty. Admittedly, we experienced gaps in the past year. No sportsfest. No Mr. and Ms. CEU. No pep rally. No last photos by Librada Avelino with friends. No fun-filled culminating activities.

John Maxwell, one of my favorite writers from whom I have derived many words of wisdom has a book entitled, “Sometimes you win; sometimes you learn.” The way the title is written on the front cover of the book, is that the word “learn” is placed on top of the word, “lose” to emphasize the point that the inverse of winning is not losing; rather, it is learning.

The past school year has been a learning year - a transformative year. Many of you, during some focus group discussions, said that you learned to be more disciplined and to manage your time more effectively - allowing time for studies without neglecting house work that you were expected to do and some socialization, albeit virtually.

You learned to learn.

Treasure the teachability and the teachable

- deprived of fun time with friends, deprived of travel and eating out, hug deprived. But I bet that while you were deprived of some things, you were, on the one hand, bestowed with experiences you would not have had were it not for the lockdowns - the many posts in your social media platforms of inspirational and motivational quotes, songs, poems, videos; the time to take notice of and enjoy nature even as ordinary as the sun’s rays, the blue sky and the wind caressing your face and blowing through your hair; the thoughtfulness of people to share, to ask how you are doing, even just to listen; friendships and relationships gained and strengthened; skills discovered and developed; learning to look out for others.

You were stirred for positive change. You were given the chance to evolve for the better.

I am certain, for you and all of us, that we learned to be more thankful to God, especially for His sustaining presence in the year past.

The sun still shines, we are here celebrating a culmination and a beginning, you are well and equipped to face tomorrow. Praise the Lord.

Alhamdulillah!

During your stay in CEU, you were reminded (and you will be reminded again later) to always bear in mind the twin philosophy of the University, ciencia y virtud, translated in more common terms as competence and character. What you and all of us won in the year just past, are many opportunities to strengthen our character.

Opportunities which I hope you grasped and took hold of.

There were many moments in the year past that must have stimulated your empathy and compassion. Stories of need - for food and medical sustenance, for sympathy in the loss of loved ones, for patience and understanding of weaknesses, for courage to face dire circumstances, for prayers. You were moved and you responded. You, all of us, were given gifts of opportunities to practice kindness.

May this spirit remain with you, with us always.

You may have felt deprived in the year past

The Time magazine had it wrong. It has not been a lost year. It has been a learning year.

This past year has been a capstone year that strengthened your character and honed your virtue - that the knowledge you have gained and will gain in the future will be used for good purpose - for your own good, for the common good of all peoples, for the good of one’s nation and the world.

Congratulations, winners of tomorrow!

Go forth. God goes with you.

Photo credit to Dr. Padolina

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CEU GETS A 3-STAR RATING IN UPM

by Jean Ramirez, Ph.D

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s a higher learning institution, CEU continues to level up its academic standards at par with international yardsticks.

CEU got a 3-star rating based on the University Performance Metrics or UPM. A 3-Star University means that CEU plays a role in the national higher education system and can facilitate student mobility in ASEAN countries. CEU specifically got 4 stars in strategic governance, education, IT infrastructure, and in community services.

The UPM system is a university benchmarking framework that evaluates Third Generation Universities on how well they have adapted to the Fourth Industrial Revolution which complies not only with the traditional ranking and rating approaches but also incorporates contemporary elements including Entrepreneurship, Innovation, Digital Transformation, Student Mobility

and Ethical Value. UPM system evaluates university performances through 54 indicators across 8 categories in research and applied orientation (http://upm.vn/docs).

“Third-generation universities were developed to expand the functional areas from merely conventional study and research to entrepreneurship and cooperation, in order to help tackle economic problems” (Financial Tribune, February 24, 2017, par.

5).

UPM 5 stars universities have high national reputation and are internationally recognized while UPM 4 stars universities are well-known not only in the country but also in the region.

There were 40 UPM participating universities in 2020 and CEU was one of the three universities from the Philippines.

ESCOLARIAN SCIENCE PROGRAMS GRADUATES NOW DOCTORS

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Photo shows (L-R) Joon Chester Guina, Mary Pompei Inocencio, Patrick Neil Lasco, Reymar Ferrer, Romeida Joyce Pereyras, Jessa Crisma Atienza, Ricabeah Baguyo, Yusoph Masorong, Ranielle Ongoco, Michelline Relucio, Princess Sharmaine Salayog, Arnel Villanueva, Angeline Louise Villar, Ana Margarita Bonifacio, Sherlyn Rose Mercado, Regine Santos, Kimberly Jane Ventura, Danica Fajardo, and Rochelle Angeline Reyes

• Ciencia Y Virtud • 2020-2021 GRADUATION SUPPLEMENT

entro Escolar University Science graduates from its Manila and Malolos campuses who pursued Medical School passed the November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination given by the Professional Regulation Commission.

New doctors from CEU Manila School of Pharmacy graduates of 2013 are Joon Chester Guina, Mary Pompei Inocencio, Patrick Neil Lasco, Reymar Ferrer; from the class of 2014, Romeida Joyce Pereyras and Jessa Crisma Atienza; and from the class of 2015, Ricabeah Baguyo, Yusoph Masorong, Ranielle Ongoco, Michelline Relucio, Princess Sharmaine Salayog, Arnel Villanueva, and Angeline Louise Villar.

Joining them are CEU Malolos alumni of BS Nursing, Ana Margarita Bonifacio of class 2010 and Regine Santos of class 2013.

New doctors from BS Pharmacy are Sherlyn Rose Mercado of class 2013, together with Danica Fajardo and Rochelle Angeline Reyes of class 2014. Completing the Escolarian doctors is Kimberly Jane Ventura of class 2013, graduate of BS Psychology from CEU Malolos.

Their achievements as new medical doctors are proof of the quality education that CEU provides for its health science programs as a preparatory course for advance studies especially in the field of medicine.

CEU MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY IS 5TH TOP PERFORMING SCHOOL AND PLACED 3RD AND 9TH IN MEDICAL TECHNOLOGISTS LICENSURE EXAM

by Dr. Charito M. Bermido

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entro Escolar University School of Medical Technology ranked 5th in the Top Performing Schools for the January 2021 Medical Technologists Licensure Examination by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) after garnering an overall performance of 80.91% for its Manila campus.

A total of 89 Escolarians from CEU Manila and 38 from CEU Makati are now Registered Medical Technologists. CEU Manila also exhibited high percentage of 83.84 for its first-time board takers.

As for the performance of our graduates in Manila who took the Licensure Examination for Medical Technologists in March 17-18, 2021, CEU Manila’s over-all official passing percentage is 65.74 while the national passing is 59.

Two of our graduates, Ms. Melissa B. Seriña (CEU Manila) and Mr. Bernard G. Oledan, Jr. (CEU Makati) placed 9th and 3rd respectively in the said Licensure Examination.

Thank you for bringing pride and honor to our pamantasan.

Blood, sweat, and tears are what the Medical Technologists offer on their licensure exam. Who would have thought that on the first three months of the year, those three golden letters will be on their names, RMT? Last January 21-22, 2021 and

March 17-18, 2021 our seniors and graduates took their board exam in the midst of the pandemic.

A mix of excitement and also nervousness came upon them yet, they were brave enough to conquer the anxiety of the unknown. They worked hard and have faith that they will be new heroes in this country. Everyone in the Medical Technology society was waiting for the release of the results and it took almost two weeks before the results were released. We can imagine their nervousness!

In spite of that, virtue won over the anxiety. Their patience was rewarded when the results finally came out. The joy was exceedingly great and waves of comfort washed those fears away. Finally, they are already RMT. The journey of the seniors is a lesson they provide for their fellow Medical Technology students, a piece of advice to always put in heart the professors’ teachings. Although there might be times of failure, students should stand up and remember the goal of being the Registered Medical Technologist someday. Have faith, choose excellence and study hard because the patients’ lives are in your hands.

Job well done! Thank you for doing your best!

CEU-MEDTECH community is proud of you!

CEU GRAD LANDS 4TH IN APRIL 2021 PHARMACIST BOARD EXAM

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ard work, sacrifice, patience, faith, and endurance made an unbeatable combination to success for Janella Jalal.

With a passing percentage of 89.22%, Centro Escolar University Manila - School of Pharmacy graduate Janella Jalal placed 4th in the April 2021 Pharmacist Licensure Examination given by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).

“Being an irregular student for four years didn’t leave that much room for me to dream of becoming one of the topnotchers. The thought of it crossed my mind, of course, but I don’t believe that much in myself. All I wanted was

to pass the board exam. But I guess, my God, Allah, have seen the sacrifices I made and He gave me more than what I asked for. I’m beyond grateful”, said the 22-year old native from TawiTawi.

Janella also shared how she and her entire family were surprised after receiving a congratulatory message from one of her former professors for being on the list of topnotchers.

But before receiving the reward of her hard work, it was never an easy journey for Janella.

She experienced multiple breakdowns and anxieties during her review.

“I cried two times during my review days.

One reason was the long “waiting game”,if the board exam would still proceed. I didn’t know it was exhausting to wait. And I was thinking they’d postpone it again, so I was slowly losing my motivation to continue with my review. I remember when they announced that the board exam in Zamboanga would push through, I was at the hospital watching over my Lola. I immediately whipped out the reviewer I brought and cried as I tried to continue solving the calculations in Module 3,” recalled Janella.

“The other reason happened a few days before the exam day. I started doubting myself and if my knowledge was already enough. And when yourself becomes your own enemy, it’s hard to fight back, because it’s the part of you that’s talking. So, I turned to God, and with His guidance and my strong will, I overcame the

hardest part of my journey to becoming a board passer,” she added.

Janella is the eldest among her three siblings and is currently residing in Zamboanga, where they transferred when she got into high school.

According to her, she might consider pursuing medicine, since it is like a childhood dream of hers, but she is still open to new opportunities.

With this kind of achievement, Janella hopes to inspire other aspiring Pharmacists especially during this challenging time of the pandemic.

“I hope they’ll enjoy and love pharmacy as much as I did during my college years.

Pharmacists play a vital role in our healthcare system. They might find it hard, but it’s going to be worth it. And in these trying times, I want them to know that their struggles are valid. It’s challenging to keep up with these major changes; attending online classes from home which is a completely a different set up from what they were used to, and trying to make things work with the best that they can while coping with the effects brought upon by the pandemic on their personal lives and well-being. I hope they rise in these hard times to make their dreams come true. Believe in yourself. You will succeed”, she humbly expressed.

The CEU School of Pharmacy led by its Dean, Dr. Cecilia Santiago also performed well in the recent board exam by having a 100% passing percentage for Manila campus.

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CEU SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH MALAYSIA’S PENANG INSTITUTE TO TRAIN TEACHERS IN MIL

Photo shows (from L-R) Penang Institute Executive Director Dato’ Dr. Ooi Kee Beng; Penang Institute Publications Officer Sheryl Teoh Chiau Yi; and CEU President and CAO Dr. Ma. Cristina Padolina]

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entro Escolar University forged a strategic partnership with Penang Institute, Malaysia on March 12, 2021 to develop teachers’ skills in teaching media and information literacy (MIL) through staging a mini TechCamp.

TechCamp Malaysia-Philippines, a funded alumni project of TechCamp Malaysia 2020, will train and deepen secondary school teachers’ and teacher educators’ understanding of the importance of MIL in a fast-moving, digital media landscape.

TechCamp Malaysia-Philippines is a virtual three-day workshop from March 29 to 31, 2021 via Zoom, with speakers from Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Spain, Thailand, the United States, and the Netherlands.

The partnership was made possible through the efforts and initiative of Mr. Ricky Rosales, CEU Communication and Media Program Head with the guidance of Dr. Maria Rita Lucas, Dean, School of Education, Liberal Arts, Music and Social Work (SELAMS).

During the virtual signing ceremony, Dato’ Dr. Ooi Kee Beng, the Executive Director of Penang Institute said that the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Penang Institute and Centro Escolar University is the first they had with a Philippine institution.

The MoU signifies the beginning

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of onward collaborations in teacher training, community extension, and research relative to MIL. “The future of democracy depends on the capacity of citizens to read between the lines and indeed, between the lies. A healthy society is made up of citizens who dare to speak their minds and who are articulate and exposed enough to differentiate falsehoods from facts,” explained Dato’ Dr. Ooi Kee Beng.

He added that Penang Institute, one of Malaysia’s most influential policy think tanks, is greatly concerned about the future of journalism in Southeast Asia, public discourses, and public literacy in general.

“We are naturally concerned about how public education is being challenged by new media and other global trends. It is therefore exciting for us to have CEU join the TechCamp family with a project aimed at educating educators on matters of grave importance to the well-being of future citizens and our countries,” said Dato’ Dr. Ooi Kee Beng.

Dr. Ma. Cristina Padolina, the President and Chief Academic Officer of CEU, affirmed that teachers should be more tech-savvy, knowledgeable, informed, and experienced than their students.

“We know that the use of the Internet in teaching and learning is irreversible.

The youth must learn to navigate this

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network because it can be treacherous for them. We need to make their journey exciting but safe, enriching, not degrading, [and] useful not damaging,” Dr. Padolina said, adding that the TechCamp Malaysia-Philippines is a relevant and timely project for CEU. “CEU is a center of excellence in teacher education. [TechCamp MalaysiaPhilippines] is a very worthwhile project for our Center. [It] will allow us to fulfill our commitment to sharing our expertise not just to our students but also with other teacher education institutions in the Philippines,” said Dr. Padolina.

The co-chairperson of the TechCamp Malaysia-Philippines organizing committee, Ms. Lai Cheng Wong said that teachers should promote media information literacy among students.

Ms. Wong added that by focusing on secondary school teachers and teacher educators, there is hope in harnessing the potential of the multiplier effect and championing on MIL leads to information literate societies.

Ms. Wong said that the partnership between CEU and Penang Institute commits to work together more closely towards one common goal – the pursuit of building a well-informed society beginning with secondary school teachers and teacher educators.

CEU STUDENTS COMPLETE 2020 UMAP-COIL JOINT PROGRAM

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our Centro Escolar University students remarkably completed the 3-month online program and garnered outstanding scores in the University Mobility in Asia and the Pacific Collaborative Online International Learning (UMAP-COIL).

PJ Sheed Olea, an Accountancy student from the School of Accountancy and Management and Joshua Flores, a Social Work student from the School of Education, Liberal Arts, Music,

Social Work (SELAMS) both earned 100 points.

Alondra Sto. Domingo SELAMS Political Science student scored 98 while nursing student, Catherine Brioso garnered 96 points.

Having successfully completed the required total number of 63-66 learning hours, composed of a pre-program workshop, lecture series, 2-week project, final presentation, and postprogram workshop, they were given certificates of completion signed by Mr. Takao Fujita, the

Photo shows (from L-R) Alondra Sto. Domingo, Joshua Flores, Catherine Brioso, and PJ Sheed Olea

Director of the Kansai University- Institute for Innovative Global Education (IIGE).

UMAP is a voluntary association of government and non-government representatives of the higher education (university) sector that conducts this kind of program to provide student opportunities to gain enriched learning and international experience.

CEU STUDENTS FINISH JAPAN’S KANSAI UNIVERSITY EOL PROGRAM

Photo shows (L-R) Alondra Sto. Domingo, Gio Angelo Escanillas, Precious Joyce Agatha Drilon and Margarette Riva Meneses

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our students of Centro Escolar University School of Education, Liberal Arts, Music and Social Work (SELAMS) finished the Institute of Innovative Global Education (IIGE) Kansai University Engaged/Exchange Online Learning (KU-EOL) Program for the period of October 1, 2020-December 14, 2020.

Alondra Sto. Domingo, a political science

student; Gio Angelo Escanillas, an English major Education student; Precious Joyce Agatha Drilon who is taking education subjects for a second degree course; and Margarette Riva Meneses, also a political science student received their Certificates of Excellence for completing the program with full attendance and good performance.

Alondra enrolled in Critical Thinking for Social and Global Issues and in Research Methods for Social Sciences. Gio Angelo, and Precious Joyce took the Methods of Comparative Analysis (English and Japanese Communication), while Margarette completed the Japan International Affairs course.

Kansai University aims to provide international opportunities for students whose educational experience has been impacted by the pandemic. Through the IIGE KU-EOL program, students of its partner universities can take a group of courses that they have intentionally maintained as online courses in English. A total of 100 students from 17 universities in 11 countries applied for the program.

NHM STUDENTS AMONG TOP 30 OF JTHMAP APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM BOOT CAMP

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entro Escolar University students Maria Iris Sofia Sobrepeña and Emmanuel Joshua Fajardo landed on two of the highest ranks of the Top 30 Excellent Students for the Junior Tourism and Hospitality Management Association of the Philippines (JTHMAP) Apprenticeship Program and Boot Camp 2020 held for five consecutive Saturdays via Zoom which started on July 18, 2020 and concluded on August 15, 2020.

From over a hundred participants, Maria Iris Sofia, second year student of Bachelor of Science in International Hospitality Management specialized in Hotel, Restaurant and Culinary Operations from CEU Manila School of Nutrition and Hospitality Management grabbed the 8th spot in the camp while Emmanuel Joshua who placed 10th is a second year student taking

Bachelor of Science in International Tourism and Travel Management from CEU Malolos College of Hospitality Management.

“The boot camp was full of new experiences, shared knowledge from the speakers and interesting exchanges of ideas with fellow campers. I have acquired many techniques and ideas in one of the sessions which I can also impart to our organization Association of Hotel and Restaurant Management’s (AHRMS) upcoming projects,” said Maria Iris Sofia.

Trina Carlene Antoinette Cea, a second year Bachelor of Science in International Tourism and Travel Management student from CEU Makati Hospitality Management Department also joined and completed the program boot camp.

The JTHMAP Apprenticeship Boot

Photo shows (from L-R) Emmanuel Joshua Fajardo and Maria Iris Sofia Sobrepeña

Camp provides leadership opportunities and conduct activities that enrich the learning and appreciation of tourism and hospitality disciplines in a series of online training and meaningful group discussions.

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CEU-SLAJ RECEIVES LEVEL II RECERTIFICATION

BY SC ON LAW STUDENT PRACTICE RULE

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entro Escolar University School of Law and Jurisprudence (CEU-SLAJ) through its Office of the Legal Aid received Level II Recertification from the Supreme Court (SC) pursuant to A.M. No, 19-03-24 SC Rule 138-A or the rule pertaining to Law Student Practice.

Escolarian Senior Law students took their oath before Hon. Ethel Mercado-Gutay, Executive Judge of the Regional Trial Court of Makati City, Branch 137 on November 16, 2020.

The CEU-SLAJ takes pride in being the first law clinic in Makati to earn the Level II Certification on the mentioned rule.

CEU ALUMNA TOPS WNBL DRAFT COMBINE AGILITY TESTS

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entro Escolar University School of Accountancy alumna Sthefanie Ventura made impressive records on two agility tests for the Women’s National Basketball League Draft Combine.

She finished the ¾ court sprint in just 3.18 seconds while clocking in at 12.66 seconds in the lane.

“I was not expecting to top the tests since the other participants were among the fastest players whom our team in college used to compete with and some of them were even UAAP players. But I think, what helped me the most during the tests is the kind of mindset that I have. I said to myself that it is not enough for me to finish the test, but to aim for the best because it is a very rare opportunity to be part of the draft combine,” said the 5-foot-8 athlete.

Sthefanie graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Business Management major in Management in 2019 and was a CEU varsity player. She is presently an Accounting Assistant at Maynila Properties under Meta Factor.

ESCOLARIAN REPRESENTS THE PHILIPPINES AT THE ASEAN YOUTH VOLUNTEER PROGRAMME 2020

by Sienna Rose L. Mabuti

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ith the vision to create a platform for youth and knowledge-driven volunteerism, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Youth Volunteer Programme (AYVP) opened their doors for the first ever virtual rendition of the annual event. With over 5300 applicants, only 475 dedicated young leaders were carefully selected to participate.

Continue reading on pp. 13

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• Ciencia Y Virtud • 2020-2021 GRADUATION SUPPLEMENT

Photo sourced from NBL-Pilipinas fb page

CEU BIOLOGY ALUMNA IS FILIPINO FACES OF BIOTECHNOLOGY AWARDEE

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entro Escolar University School of Science and Technology alumna, Dr. Marybeth Maningas is chosen as one of the 2020 Filipino Faces of Biotechnology by the Department of Agriculture. She received an award for her outstanding contribution in the advancement of biotechnology in the country.

Dr. Maningas is a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Biology, Class of 1990 and is currently an associate professor at the University of Santo Tomas, College of Science.

Since 2016, the Department of Agriculture has given the award to a total of 25 recipients as part of the annual celebration of the National Biotechnology Week.

CEU MEDTECH ALUMNUS AMONG THE RESEARCHERS ON THE POTENTIAL OF ANTI-SARS-COV-2 IGM IN IMPROVING CLINICAL SENSITIVITY assays, trends over time, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were determined.

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entro Escolar University School of Medical Technology alumnus, Mr. Anselmo Fabros is one of the researchers behind the study titled “AntiSARS-CoV-2 IgM improves clinical sensitivity early in disease discourse”.

As per the published study, specimens from 175 PCR-positive patients and 107 control specimens were analyzed using Abbott IgM and IgG, DiaSorin IgG, and Roche Total (IgA, IgG, IgM) assays. Sensitivity, specificity, cross-reactivity, concordance between

“The host immune system reacts to the infection

by SARS-CoV-2 by producing specific antibodies. IgM and IgG are the key elements of the immune system that provide early response to infection (IgM) and longlasting protective immunity (IgG). As IgM is a marker of acute infection, it may be a useful tool to combine it with PCR (Swab Test) to improve sensitivity and specificity early in the disease course,” said Mr. Fabros.

Mr. Fabros, a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology in 1997 is presently a ChargeMedical Laboratory Technologist at Biochemistry and Immunology, Toronto General Hospital in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

The full text of the study can be accessed on the National Library of Medicine website through this link https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33476578/.

2020-2021 GRADUATION SUPPLEMENT • Ciencia Y Virtud •

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DR. BORROMEO IS PRC OUTSTANDING OPTOMETRIST

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entro Escolar University School of Optometry Dean, Dr. Elena Borromeo was awarded as one of the 2020 Professional Regulation Commission Outstanding Professionals for her remarkable contributions in the field of Optometry during the PRC virtual awarding ceremony with the theme,

Outstanding Professionals: The Shining Light Amidst the Challenges of Time.

Besides her leadership as dean, Dr. Borromeo exemplifies active involvement in community outreach programs. She also shares her expertise by being resource persons in various optometry conferences.

DR. LIMUACO RECEIVES LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS, DISTINCTION AND EXCELLENCE AWARDS

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R. OLIVIA M. LIMUACO, the Vice President for CEU Makati and Dean of Studies, receives not one but two lifetime achievement awards. She is the recipient of the first PACOP Lifetime Achievement Award given last February 25, 2020 by the Philippine Association of Colleges of Pharmacy on the occasion of its 45th Anniversary held at New Coast Hotel, City of Manila.

On September 25, 2020, she also received the PPhA Lifetime Achievement Award on the occasion of the Philippine Pharmacists Association Centennial Celebration Virtual Ceremony.

Aside from these two lifetime achievement awards, she also received

the Philippine Federation of Professional Associations (PFPA) Distinction Award in the field of Pharmacy and the Professional Excellence Awards in the Professional Association Development Category given last February 27, 2021 at UP Bahay ng Alumni on the occasion of the 8th PFPA Distinction and Excellence Awarding Ceremony.

Dr. Limuaco is very active in her involvement in different professional organizations such as Colegio Medico Farmaceutico De Filipina Inc. (CMFFI), Philippine Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (PACOP), Philippine Pharmacists Association (PPHA), Federation of Asian Pharmaceutical

Associations (FAPA), and Federation of International Pharmaceutique (FIP). She is the former president of the Philippine Pharmacists Association, two-time president of PACOP and former secretary general and vice president of FAPA. At present she serves as council of leaders of PPhA and PACOP. Her valuable contribution as officer or as president of the associations allow her to make a difference in the field of pharmacy as a profession and have benefited the members of the organizations and the pharmacy students.

DR. LUCAS COMPLETES CEEL AT HARVARD UNIVERSITY GRADUATE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

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entro Escolar University School of Education, Liberal Arts, Music and Social Work (SELAMS) Dean, Dr. Maria Rita Lucas finished a Certificate Course in Early Education Leadership (CEEL) offered online by Harvard Graduate School of Education.

From the period of August 2019 to February 2021, Dr. Lucas completed the 15 courses included in the program.

Through the Zaentz Professional Learning Academy, the CEEL is “designed

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to offer working professionals in early education an opportunity to deepen their core knowledge, enhance their skills, and add to their leadership toolkit through a flexible, online, and job-embedded learning experience. Materials are interactive and case-based.”

Dr. Lucas’ continuous pursuit of knowledge exemplifies her good leadership not only to the faculty of the School of ELAMS but also to the school’s alumni and most especially to the students.

SCHOOL OF OPTOMETRY’S INNOVATION IN VIRTUAL CELEBRATIONS

by Elaine Marie M. Salem

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recourse of plans becomes feasible in the home of the board topnotchers, the School of Optometry with the supervision, collaboration and support of the dean, Dr. Elena Borromeo; the advisers of the student council and school-based organizations, Dr. Carol Fe A. Gariando, Dr. Marilyn H. Samson, and Dr. Ma. Cecilia L. Yu; faculty members; the staff and more importantly of the students.

In celebration of the Sight-Saving Month, the School of Optometry’s organizations, Optometry Student Council, Optometry Clinicians Club and COMPASS-Optometry Chapter had a collaboration to virtually conduct a program with the theme, “Vision 20/20: Live Healthy, See Clearly in the Midst of the COVID-19 Pandemic” on the 22nd of August 2020 via Google meet and Facebook. With her profoundness, Dr. Elena C. Borromeo, dean of the School of Optometry pointed the relevance of Sight-Saving month in the digital world.

In the same manner, Dr. Ma. Cecilia L. Yu-COMPASS Optometry Chapter Adviser, gave an overview regarding the flow of event. Serving as the highlights

of the event, the resource speakers, Dr. Kathleen Faye B. Ballesteros and Dr. Marienne Princess S. Mercado discussed “COVID and the Eye” and “Eye Care Now to Preserve the Future” respectively. Spicing up the event were the interactive games and activities, the trivia questions, gibberish challenge, along with tiktometry battle and flat lay photography.

Another applauding event was the Webinar Series on “COVID-19 Health Awareness: Digital Eye Strain in the Midst of Online Learning” where the School of Optometry had the privilege to host on the 11th of December, year of the Lord 2020.

The presence of the University President, Dr. Maria Cristina D. Padolina, graced the event and affirmed the insightful goal of the program. The speaker, Dr. Jeanette Romualdez-Oo, a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and International Association of Contact Lens Educators, shed light to various misconceptions about COVID, contact lenses and the eye.

Another significant project was the monthly E-Kumustahan from December 2020 to May 2021. Promising grounds

Continuation of ESCOLARIAN REPRESENTS…

by Sienna Rose L. Mabuti

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ne of the privileged leaders to join the more than a week-long program is Centro Escolar University Manila - School of Optometry’s 2nd year student, Ms. Sienna Rose L. Mabuti. The 2020 AYVP has run virtually from November 9-20, 2020 featuring over nine (9) ASEAN-focused online webinars and six (6) masterclasses. The event has revolved around the theme of “Redesigning the Education in the New Normal'' and was hosted by the University of Kebangsaan Malaysia.

Ms. Sienna is also the Optometry Student

made this monthly event possible for the “E-Kumustahan” allows students to properly raise their academic and non-academic concerns regarding their overall state. Students also were updated about the online class system and concerns related to the school.

Each “E-Kumustahan” has a theme.

On December and January, the theme was “Growing Together Despite the Kilometer”; on the month of Love, February, “All EYE Need is Love”; on March, “Look at the Bright Side as You March with Open Minds” which was centered on Women’s Month celebration.

This “E-Kumustahan” filled the whole Optometry family with warm greetings, activities, games, talent sharing and glee.

A celebration that also calls for appreciation is the “World Optometrists Day” on the 23rd of March 2021 acknowledging the earnest efforts of the Doctors and future ones.

Face to face or virtual, nothing can stop the School of Optometry to hold events and programs for the students, faculty and staff in order for them to become updated and well-rounded.

Council’s treasurer for academic year 20202021. When asked about her AYVP experience, she has extended her utmost admiration to the speakers from the different credible organizations like UNICEF, UNESCO, the ASEAN University Network, and the United Nations Volunteers. She shared, “It felt surreal to be in the same Zoom meeting as the leaders of ASEAN. It has taught me a lot about the value of volunteering and even though we are in the comforts of our own home during this pandemic, we still have the capacity to create change that would help amplify voices and make the world a better place for future generations.”

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ESCOLARIA Okir De Leon

Francis Jefferson D. Weber

First Place in 2020 NCCA Composition Prize Competition both in Solo Music Category and for Chamber Music Category

Kim Elijah E. Torio

Neil Patrick R. Mcintyre

CEU Manila Outstanding Student 2021

CEU Manila Outstanding Student 2021

Harvey James Catahan

CEU Makati 2021 Outstanding Student and Model President

Ricky Gabriel R. Catindig

CEU Malolos Outstanding Student 2021

CEU Malolos Outstanding Student 2021

Emmanuel Joshua Fajardo

CEU Malolos Model President 2021

Jennel Chua

Completed IIGE KU-EOL online program

Maria Iris Sofia

Ranked 8th among the Top 30 Excellent Students JTHMAP Apprenticeship Program and Boot Camp 2020

Joshua Flores

Completed the UMAP-COIL online program

Completed the UMAP-COIL online program

Precious Joyce Agatha Drilon

CEU Manila Model President

Catherine Brioso

completed the UMAP-COIL and IIGE KU-EOL online programs

Completed the UMAP-COIL online program

Christine Joyce D. Hautea

Paola Denise Reyes

Alondra Sto. Domingo

PJ Sheed Ole

CEU Manila Model President

CEU Malolos Model President 2021

CEU Manila Model President

Margarette Riva Meneses

Completed IIGE KU-EOL online program

Image by rawpixel.com

Reyna Monica L. Gaspar

CEU Malolos Outstanding Student 2021

CEU Makati Model President 2021

Raymond L. Fortaleza

Same Zhairra M. Del Rosario

CEU Makati Outstanding Student 2021

Philmer James G. Manio

Miccaella Carolyn Loise N. Brioso

Gail Ann C. Garcia

Ranked 10th among the Top 30 Excellent Students JTHMAP Apprenticeship Program and Boot Camp 2020

CEU Makati 2021 Outstanding Student and Model President

Kyla Jose

CEU Malolos Outstanding Student 2021

CEU Manila Model President

Junielle Kristiene I Castillo

Gio Angelo Escanillas

Completed IIGE KU-EOL online program

SIENNA ROSE L. MABUTI

Philippine representative at the ASEAN Youth Volunteer Programme 2020

EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS

AN Exemplars Dr. Gretha Pabustan Dr. Cassandra Viloria

Batch 2019, Top 3 in March 2019 Medical Technology Licensure Examination

Batch 2019, Top 3 in July 2019 Optometrist Board Examination

Dr. Ric II Lim

Batch 2019, Top 9 in July 2019 Optometrist Board Examination

Melissa Seriña

Batch 2019, Top 9 in March 2019 Medical Technology Licensure Examination

Batch 2013, BSPharmacy CEU Manila November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

Batch 1990, 2020 Filipino Faces of Biotechnology

Patrick Neil Lasco Batch 2013, BSPharmacy CEU Manila November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

Batch 2010, BSNursing CEU Malolos November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

Ranielle Ongoco

Batch 2015, BSPharmacy CEU Manila November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

Sherlyn Rose Mercado

Batch 2013, BSPharmacy CEU Malolos November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

Batch 2019, Top 7 in July 2019 Optometrist Board Examination

Anselmo Fabros

Batch 2019, Tops WNBL Draft Combine Agility Tests

Batch 1997, One of the researchers on the Potential of Anti-SARS-Cov-2 IgM in Improving Clinical Sensitivity

Michelline Relucio Batch 2015, BSPharmacy CEU Manila November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

Joon Chester Guina Batch 2013, BSPharmacy CEU Manila November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

Jessa Crisma Atienza

Batch 2013, BSPharmacy CEU Manila November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

Romeida Joyce Pereyras

Batch 2014, BSPharmacy CEU Manila November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

Batch 2014, BSPharmacy CEU Manila November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

Ricabeah Baguyo

Batch 2015, BSPharmacy CEU Manila November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

Arnel Villanueva

Princess Sharmaine Salayog

Batch 2015, BSPharmacy CEU Manila November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

Batch 2015, BSPharmacy CEU Manila November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

Regine Santos

Batch 2013, BSNursing CEU Malolos November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

Dr. MC Oliver Dorado

Batch 2019, Top 6 in July 2019 Optometrist Board Examination

Sthefanie Ventura

Dr. Marybeth Maningas

Reymar Ferrer

Yusoph Masorong

Ana Margarita Bonifacio

Janella Amiriel Jalal

Batch 2020, Top 4 in April 2021 Pharmacist Licensure Examination

Mary Pompei Inocencio

Batch 2015, BSPharmacy CEU Manila November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

Dr. Jardine Nicole Tan

Bernard Oledan, Jr.

Batch 2019, Topnotcher in July 2019 Optometrist Board Examination

Angeline Louise Villar

Batch 2015, BSPharmacy CEU Manila November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

Danica Fajardo

Kimberly Jane Ventura

Batch 2013, BSPsychology CEU Malolos November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

Batch 2014, BSPsychology CEU Malolos November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

EMPOWERED ALUMNI

Rochelle Angeline Reyes Batch 2014, BSPharmacy CEU Malolos November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination Passer

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From Neil Patrick R. Mcintyre, USC Makati

e have reached the end of the culminating activity. I would like to thank everyone here today and we appreciate you for taking your time off your busy schedules to join us today especially the CEU Presidential Committee on Culture and the Arts, and the organizers. This activity gives us love, hope, courage, positivity, and unity.

Continue reading on pp. 20

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From Patricia Yvonne Y. Manalang, USC Malolos

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t is a great pleasure for me to say a few words at the end of this event. As we celebrate the National Arts Month, may we always remember that “arts” may also stand for Artistic, Responsive, Talented and Self-reliant.

Filipinos have these natural characteristics which are essential human behaviors and the arts are our means of communication that heals for they tell our story and share our experiences.

Continue reading on pp. 20

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From Maria Bernadette P. Nakagami, USC Manila

warm afternoon everyone! As this culminating activity has come to a close, I would like to thank everyone here with us this afternoon. Although the pandemic shifted our usual form of celebrating and gathering, it did not stop you from joining a significant event such as this that celebrates brokenness and healing.

Continue reading on pp. 20

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“MAGSIMULA KA!” IS CEU PCCA’S MESSAGE OF HOPE

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n celebration of the National Arts Month, Centro Escolar University Presidential Committee on Culture and the Arts (PCCA) composed of CEU’s performing groups took on the virtual stage for a concert titled “Magsimula Ka!” on February 27, 2021.

The online concert was also set to pay tribute to Doña Librada Avelino in commemoration of her 148th birth anniversary. Doña Librada Avelino was CEU’s first president and one of the founders together with Doña Carmen de Luna.

The CEU Folk Dance Troupe, CEU Concert Band, CEU Pep Squad, and the CEU Singers Manila, Makati and Malolos performed moving renditions of inspirational songs, captivating music, and beautiful dance numbers. Selected students and alumni also offered solo performances that conveyed meaningful messages befitting the challenges the world is facing these days.

“We have traditionally celebrated the birthday of our founder with the cultural event and this is to affirm her vision of a holistic education for our youth, of the importance of education, not just in a discipline or a profession but in the culture and the arts,” said CEU President and Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Ma. Cristina Padolina in her

• Ciencia Y Virtud • 2020-2021 GRADUATION SUPPLEMENT

opening message.

Highlighting the occasion is the final group performance of the three resident choirs joined by some of the CEU employees and members of the Presidential Committee on Culture and the Arts (PCCA). They sang “Magsimula Ka”, a song composed by GinesTan and originally sang by Leo Valdez. The song is a message of hope, a message for all to persevere and start fulfilling dreams even in the midst of trials.

Dr. Carlito Olaer, Vice President for Student Affairs, the overall chairperson; Prof. Angelito Ayran, Jr., the cochairperson; Mr. Marciano Viri, the overall director; and the CEU cultural performers proved that the university’s tradition and culture will continue and the “Magsimula Ka” Concert proves that no pandemic can stop them to put up a great concert to showcase the beauty and significance of music, arts, and culture.

Through songs, dances and music, the concert leaves a message of inspiration and the messages from the three presidents of University Student Councils of the three campuses, Manila, Makati, Malolos are worth sharing for they talk to their fellow Escolarians as their leaders who like the students, they too want to be inspired and inspire by the event.

CEU FACULTY MEMBERS AND DOCTOR OF PHARMACY STUDENTS AS CERTIFIED IMMUNIZING PHARMACIST (PHILIPPINES)

by Dr. Maria Donnabelle U. Dean

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he Professional Regulatory Board of Pharmacy (PRBOP) thru the leadership of BOP OIC Hon. Anthony Aldrin Santiago, issued resolution No. 05 series of 2021 in accordance with RA 10918 (Philippine Pharmacy Act). The resolution accredited the Philippine Pharmacists Association Inc. (PPhA) as the training provider for Immunizing Pharmacist. The resolution also authorized PPhA to issue a Certificate of Training as a legal proof that the trained pharmacists can administer

adult vaccines.

The PPhA thru the leadership of its President, Ms. Ma. Gilda Sebua-Saljay and the IPCP Program Manager, Mr. Bryan Posadas launched the Immunizing Pharmacist Certification Program (IPCP) last April 5, 2021. IPCP is an interactive practice-based educational program that equips Filipino pharmacists with the essential skills necessary to become a reliable source for vaccine advocacy, education, and vaccination.

Continue reading on pp.19

CEU MEDTECH STUDENTS PRESENT THEIR STUDY IN LUKAD CONFERENCE 2020

Photo shows (from L-R) Patricia Salazar, Carlos Angelo Panuelo, Angela Pasicolan, Renee Angeli Parale, and Maria Angeline Santos

n the recent Lukad Conference 2020 hosted by the Philippine Normal University South Luzon, the sophomore students of Centro Escolar University School of Medical Technology presented their study titled, “On the Separation of the Church and State: Is the Church's Opposition on the Anti-Terrorism Law in the Philippines a Case on Point”.

The study is about to what extent should the separation of church and state be focusing on determining if the church went overboard in criticizing the fast-tracked passing of the AntiTerror Law as stated in the pastoral letter released by Catholic Bishops'

the rest of the presenters were already professionals and are taking their master’s degrees, which made her quite intimidated, she managed to excellently answer all the questions, and even received positive feedbacks for their paper.

The group was extremely delighted that their study was successfully accepted for oral presentation in the Lukad Conference 2020 although it was initially just a requirement for their subject, Man, Church and Society under Mr. Ruel Nalam, their professor, who earnestly supported the submission of their paper in the said virtual conference.

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Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).

“The team grew interested in the topic on the separation of the church and the state due to the allegations that the Catholic Church is becoming political because of its criticisms on the passing of the Anti-Terror Law. It prompted us more when I myself came across the pastoral letter on one of the live masses in Quiapo Church,” said Maria Angeline Santos who represented the group for the actual presentation of their pre-recorded video. Other members of the team are Carlos Angelo Panuelo, Renee Angelie Parale, Angela Pasicolan, and Patricia Salazar.

According to Angeline, although

2020-2021 GRADUATION SUPPLEMENT • Ciencia Y Virtud •

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CEU MUSIC STUDENT IS NCCA 2020 COMPOSITION PRIZE WINNER FOR SOLO AND CHAMBER MUSIC CATEGORIES

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entro Escolar University Conservatory of Music student Okir Banyuhay P. De Leon won first place in the 2020 Composition Prize Competition by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) for his composition entries in two different music categories.

Okir’s Piano Sonata No.1 for Solo Music Category and Magindara for Chamber Music Category were both declared as top pieces and were performed by artists during the virtual awarding ceremony of the competition. All entries were judged without the identity of the composer and were only revealed after the decision has been made.

“This Piano Sonata No. 1, from the name itself is my first piano sonata. This piece although called sonata, doesn’t necessarily strictly follow the standard format of a sonata, yet you would still hear the exposition of different themes, the development as well as their return, for it is done so in the manner that makes the form its own,” said Okir when he presented one of his winning pieces in the awarding ceremony.

Okir also introduced Magindara which was inspired by a beautiful yet menacing mythological sea creature known as Magindara. This mermaid possesses not only beauty but also an enchanting voice used to sing spell binding songs attracting and hypnotizing sailors and luring them into the waters.

“I have joined a few competitions in the past but I never won.

But for me, joining competitions is not really about winning, but I’ll be lying if I say I don’t want to win at all. But my point is, winning is not the main goal. It is not about the glory or proving anything to anyone. Competitions give me the push that I need, urge me to try new things, inspire my creativity, and help me gain new levels of insight,” Okir added.

Okir started playing violin, his first instrument when he was five years old, and took lessons until he was 15. Along the way he was able to learn playing other instruments as well. He is presently in his third year taking Bachelor of Music in Music Composition under the tutelage of Mr. Joed Balsamo, CEU Conservatory of Music professor who also told him about the NCCA competition. His father, Bayani De Leon is also an alumnus of the CEU Conservatory of Music while his grandfather, Felipe De Leon, Sr. became one of its faculty. His uncle, Felipe De Leon, Jr. is the current Chairman of the Committee on Music of NCCA.

CEU STUDENTS GET PERFECT SCORES IN TOEIC

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even students from CEU Manila, Makati, Malolos and Las Piñas got a perfect score of 990 in the Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC).

TOEIC is produced by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and its questions are based on real-life work settings in an international environment.

From CEU Manila, the Escolarians who obtained the perfect score are first year student, Francene Mickyle Matic and fourth year student, Shane Hannah Leigh Santos both taking Medical Technology.

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Photo shows (L-R) Francene Mickyle Matic, Shane Hannah Leigh Santos, Agile Wrynne Reyes, Moira Fabiene Romero, Luigi Miguel Kho, Jamela Santiago, and Francesca Miranda

From CEU Makati, the perfect scorers are first year Medical Technology students, Agile Wrynne Reyes and Moira Fabiene Romero, together with Luigi Miguel Kho, first year Information Technology student.

From CEU Malolos, Jamela Santiago is a first year Pharmacy student and Francesca Miranda, a second year student taking up Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Centro Escolar Las Piñas also nailed the exam.

All these students received a Certificate of Recognition from the Educational Testing Service (ETS).

GRADUATE SCHOOL HOLDS A WEBINAR ON RESEARCH PUBLICATION

by Rossele Lopez

Dr. Maricar S. Prudente

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he Graduate School wrapped the semester up by holding a webinar on the topic, “Publication in Peer-Reviewed Journals Challenges, Solutions and Inspirations” in the morning of May 15, 2021. It is one of the activities lined up for the Graduate School Research Capacity Development.

The event was well attended by almost 200 participants. Attendees include Graduate School students, faculty members, school deans, and support staff. Dr. Maricar W. Ching, Graduate School Assistant Dean delightedly welcomed all the participants.

Dr. Erna V. Yabut, Graduate

School Officer-in-Charge, pleasantly imparted an inspirational message. She encouraged Graduate School students to be more persevering and aggressive in the field of research. Dr. Ching introduced the guest speaker, Dr. Maricar S. Prudente who is a regular member of the National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP) and Full Professor from the De La Salle University, Manila. She unselfishly shared her insights, knowledge, as well as her own experience in the field of research in the academe.

The talk provided assistance to students, early career researchers, and faculty on how to publish in peerreviewed journals.

Important tips on how to prepare the manuscript for journal publication were discussed. Further information to the participants on the review process that accompanies article submission for publication has conversed. It is especially important that the webinar motivated and inspired the participants to contribute to research dissemination by submitting their research outputs for publication.

The activity was very fruitful and timely as what the majority of the attendees remarked. It was wrapped up by a closing remark brightly delivered by the Graduate School Assistant to the Dean, Dr. Lorena S. Balacanao.

Continuation of CEU FACULTY MEMBERS AND DOCTORS…

by Dr. Maria Donnabelle U. Dean

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he certification program has four sequential levels of learning and was aligned with the current global standards on immunization.

As a certified immunizing pharmacist, they must be responsible to engage in mandated learning programs to keep abreast of current developments, recommendations, protocols related to vaccines and vaccination. The immunizing pharmacist must also maintain one’s Basic Life Support (BLS) certificate active at all times.

PPhA has conferred seventy-

three (73) Immunizing Pharmacists which include CEU Pharmacy Faculty members Dr. Maria Donnabelle U. Dean, RPh from Makati Campus and Ms. Mylene T. Perez, RPh from Malolos Campus; both are now IPCP assessors. Recently, three Doctor of Pharmacy students were conferred as Immunizing Pharmacists. They are Mr. Morisse A. Caleon, RPh, Mr. Neal Ashley U. Dean, RPh, and Ms. Camille Demaisip, RPh. A new professional service for pharmacist unfolds. The Filipino pharmacists were the first, authorized

by law, to administer vaccines in Asia. We stand in the gap for adult vaccination and make a greater impact on public health. To date, almost 400 pharmacists are undergoing training.

Escolarians are at the forefront of change in the professional pharmacy service landscape in the Philippines and in Asia. (Acknowledge the inputs from the IPCP Program Manager, Mr. Bryan S. Posadas for this article)

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CEU BRINGS NURSES’ DAY CELEBRATION ONLINE

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ith the collaboration of Centro Escolar University School of Nursing and Alumni Foundation Inc. Nursing Chapter, the Escolarian community virtually celebrated the annual Nurses’ Day on February 27 and March 8, 2021 via Zoom.

Just like how the Librada Auditorium usually gets filled during this kind of event, this year is no different because more than 500 participants joined the celebration.

With the theme, “Trailblazing Excellence Towards Quality Nursing Care,” the two consecutive Saturdays were both full of enriching talks.

The first day was also set as the 7th Dean Ida Kimseng Memorial Lecture.

Dean Kimseng is the Founding Dean of the CEU School of Nursing.

“Like Dean Ida Kimseng who had a clear vision of the needs of the society, she equipped nurses to be providers of quality healthcare undertaking the risks and maintaining responsiveness to the needs of the society,” said Dr. Elvira Urgel, current Dean CEU School of Nursing.

“You have been chosen to pursue a degree with a wonderful career path.

One day you will create an impact to a patient’s life through your compassion and dedication to work,” she added.

The guest speaker was Mr. Ferdinand Aganon, CEU School of Nursing Class of 1997 alumnus and presently a Chief Nursing Officer at the Medical City.

The last day of the online event was meant for the E-Kumustahan joined by the members and staff of CEU Library Services, Health Services, University Ministry, together with the Philippine Nursing Research Society and CEU Class of 2000 alumna, Ms. Wenona Cuevas Rosas, Administrator/Clinical Director at Guam Visiting Nurses.

The celebration was wrapped up with a Thanksgiving Mass led by Rev. Fr. Rindo Karripai Anthony, University Chaplain and Celebrant.

Continuation of MAGSIMULA KA USC LEADERS SPEECHES…

From Neil Patrick R. Mcintyre, USC Makati

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he pandemic changes everything around us but at the end of the day, all we need is hope and strength. Hope that it will eventually get better and stronger to hold on ‘till it does.

And while we are waiting; whatever hardship, challenges, indecisions, and fears that we are facing, we just remember that these too shall pass and by the grace of God we will overcome.

Every day you wake up is a blessing and we should never take that blessing for granted.

We can choose to start over and we can choose today, to do better.

I hope this activity helped us to be better and to do better for ourselves and for our community.

To the people behind this program, thank you for your time, creativity, courage, efforts, and passion.

Every great dream begins with a dreamer.

Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.

“Escolarians, Tayo’y bumangon at magsimula!”

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From Patricia Yvonne Y. Manalang, USC Malolos

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think this is also the best opportunity for me to say that whatever hardships, challenges, indicisions and fears that we are facing right now we just have to remember that these too shall pass and by the grace of God we will overcome. At the end of the day all we need is hope and strength, hope that it will eventually get better and strength to hold on till it does.

This maybe a tough time to all of us but we can use these difficult times as life lessons, growing and shaping us to blossom into stronger and wiser person every day.

Of course, this event will not be possible without the people behind it. I would like to congratulate all the organizers as well as to thank all the viewers for spending your time here with us.

With this have a wonderful day and please stay safe and healthy. Thank you and God Bless us all!

“Sining ang gumigising sa ating imahinasyon kaya tayo ay nakakaisip ng malalaking ideya para mabuhay ng masaya.”

• Ciencia Y Virtud • 2020-2021 GRADUATION SUPPLEMENT

From Maria Bernadette P. Nakagami, USC Manila

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o the people behind this activity, thank you for your efforts and perseverance to host such an event. The desire to continue the legacy of CEU promoting Science and Virtue and joining the entire nation in celebrating the Art’s month is greatly felt through the music and dances you have presented. The sound, the movements and the visuals of the past against a backdrop of struggles and turmoils of the present simply offer us a determined option to hope for the best. Through your artistry, you have planted the seeds of courage and determination to start all over again despite the tragedies of life. Through your dedication, I am sure that everyone here has found a new purpose in their lives.

And to you, watching through your screens, I thank you for tuning in. May this activity allow you to hope again, dream again, and most importantly live again. Yes, it is hard to pick up the broken pieces once you’ve fallen. It is hard to find direction once you’ve experienced being lost. However, let me tell you that just because you’ve suffered doesn’t mean that you don’t have the right to become whole again, to set on a new direction. I hope this activity reminds you of that. That stumbling isn’t a sign of failure; instead, it’s a sign of progress.

It tells you that there is more to life and every progression is a venture towards healing.

Again, to the officers and committee members who decided to stage this event virtually, your courageous act is really commendable. Thank you for standing up to the challenge.

Thank you and may God bless us all!

“Bumangon ka, magsimula ka!”

CEU HOLDS FIRST WEBINAR FOR GUIDANCE COUNSELORS

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entro Escolar University Marketing Communications Department in coordination with the Guidance and Counseling Department conducted its first webinar for guidance counselors with a very timely topic “Capacity Building for Tele and Web Counseling”. It was held on January 29, 2021 via Zoom.

Almost 200 high school guidance counselors from the National Capital Region, Regions III and IV attended the webinar. Also, for the first time, there were participants from Visayas, particularly Lapu-Lapu City, Aklan, and even from Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

CEU President and Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Ma. Cristina D. Padolina expressed her warm welcome to the guidance counselors who joined the webinar. Relating with the event’s topic, she recognized the fact that in the present work set-up there has really been limitations in terms of communication as we often cannot fully see the people we are talking to, but she was glad that the pandemic happened in this time where

CEU-PACE CONDUCTS FREE WEBINARS ON COVID-19 HEALTH AWARENESS

by Richel D. Punzalan

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n the midst of limited mobility of the educational sector because of the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ), the CEU-Professional and Continuing Education, in coordination with the schools offering health sciences programs, conducted six (6) free webinars related to CoVid-19 Health Awareness. The webinars intend to deliver information to the public health-related updates about CoVid-19 and how to protect and provide health services in a better new normal situation.

An industry and health expert, Dr. Beaver Tamesis discussed the updates on vaccine and treatment development for CoVid-19. A School of Medical Technology alumna, Dr. Fedelyn Estrella shared her expertise in Biorisk Management in the Clinical Laboratory. School of Nursing’s industry partner in Australia, Mrs. Suzette Dela Cruz-Regalo talked on workplace safety during pandemic. A former School of Dentistry faculty member, now practicing in California, USA, Dr. Eric M. Peña explained the Science of Dental Aerosols. An international

our technology is able and ready. She also thanked the organizers for being able to continue staging the event.

The discussion was led by Dr. Julian Montano, Clinical Supervisor at In Touch Philippines focusing on the counseling approaches suited for tele and web counseling. He also shared his insights on the boundaries between the guidance counselors and their student client as well as the recommended set-up and preparations for counseling sessions using both types of platforms to deliver effectively in the practice.

“You have to remember that it is not really the means of communication that defines the success of counseling, but it is the quality of relationship that you create with your client,” said Dr. Montano.

After the talk, the speaker entertained questions from the participants.

The event was made possible through the efforts of the Marketing Communications Department led by Dr. Ma. Eleanor Espinas with Ms. Jhorizza Palma as Event Chair and the Guidance and Counseling Department with Dr. Carmencita Salonga as Head. fellow and alumna of School of Optometry, Dr. Jeanette Romualdez-Oo described the relation of digital eye strain and online learning. A former faculty member of School of Pharmacy, presently in Ontario, Canada, Mrs. Cristina Privado-Azzopardi presented the advanced roles of pharmacists in providing health assistance and the updates on the vaccines produced.

Participants from different sectors attended the virtual learning sessions. They include CEU students, CEU teaching and nonteaching employees, alumni, industry partners and previous PACE participants. Most of the participants gave very positive feedbacks in attending the free webinars. They were thankful to the health experts for the information and tips they can apply in their respective workplaces and households. They also became more aware of the best practices done in different countries in managing the pandemic. Topics presented by the speakers were very relevant for the participants. The lectures would help them improve their services in their respective professions and cope better during pandemic.

The first three (3) webinars were reported to CHED as the university’s contribution in the HEIs Bayanihan initiatives last October 2020.

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TEAMWORK : AIMING FOR THE VISION, NOT DIVISION

by Wilbur S. Calo, Team LIBRRADA

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he Covid-19 pandemic that now afflicts the entire world has brought the education sector to its knees. With physical classes migrating to online platforms it was necessary that library services which are an essential component of any well-functioning academic institution had to migrate in a similar fashion. In the case of our very own Centro Escolar University Library, migration to online platforms had slowly been realized even before the pandemic began. However, as with perhaps almost all academic libraries in the Philippines, it was not without difficulty or great challenge that this migration had to be sped up.

When the LIBRRADA Quality Circle Team was formed in 2018 it had the goal of using the tools and techniques of Quality Circle management to improve the services of the CEU Library. Thus it armed itself with the task of preparing the library’s response to the pandemic.

By introducing and implementing the library’s Virtual Help Desk, we were able to continue and expand the provision of library services to all of our clients, making sure that their information needs are met. While we would have wanted to be recognized as the Best Quality Circle for the year 2020, we are still deeply honored by the responses we received from the university community that resulted in our recognition as the Most Popular Quality Circle Team. We take this as a call to apply the tools and techniques that the team has been studying for the past three years, to aim higher should the next opportunity present itself.

We continue to look to the future with a resolute hope that more innovative and positive solutions will be in our reach. It is also a good thing for the team to reflect on its past experiences and relish the kind of teamwork that has made the CEU Library achieve its goals for the past years.

Many have talked about the difficulties of holding virtual meetings in lieu of the usual ones. Some have spoken of the difficulty in adjusting to a new way of interaction, the lack of direct human contact, and the difficulty of keeping one’s attention firmly in place.

Our team experienced these as well, and they have made us yearn even more for the times where we could work together again in each other’s presence. Without the strong support we give each other, and the common resolution to get things done, we would have probably succumbed to the difficulties previously mentioned, and would not have made the progress we’ve had up to this point.

While the pandemic continues to weigh down on the whole of our society, let us hold fast to the virtues and values that have made our workforce strong, resilient and responsive. Teamwork is needed now more than ever. While our methods of communication have been drastically changed, and the kind and nature of our outputs radically altered, our university’s vision for quality education remains consistent and unfailing. There will be contentions in leadership roles, and disagreements in policy and handling of new challenges, but with teamwork and unity we will get through the pandemic. For us, the real challenge in teamwork is not in bringing everyone to the same vision.

The true test is in reconciling our differences and disagreements while keeping ourselves focused on the common goal. We have learned much over the past three years, but the pandemic has been a humble reminder to us that there is yet more to be learned.

To our fellow laborers in the vineyard of the Centro Escolar University, let us take care of each other and continue to intensify our solidarity in this time of the COVID-19 pandemic. May we find in our common suffering, and arduous trial a ground for unity, resilience and a passion to do the best thing we can for our students, and for the nation. Taking comfort in the Divine Providence of God, let us entrust the future in His hands and do the best we can.

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• Ciencia Y Virtud • 2020-2021 GRADUATION SUPPLEMENT

FUTURE OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN A DISRUPTIVE WORLD

by Eduard M. Riparip, J.D.

photo by tumblr

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he COVID-19 pandemic has caused tremendous disruptions in almost all industries; the education sector, for example, has not been spared, if not, one of the most affected institutions. Teachers and nonacademic staff were laid off. Budgets were cut.

Physical classes suddenly shifted to online.

Training sessions and webinars were provided to supplement online learning. Curricula were revised. Assessment of learning was revisited.

Digital learning technologies were purchased and/or improved. The enrollment declined.

With these in mind, this pandemic has really shaken the foundation of almost all educational institutions around the world, utilizing all their assets and means to provide the necessary instruction to the students and assuring them of equal quality education they receive during physical classes. Because of this disruption, traditional university, and school models and learning principles have been revisited by educational leaders to adapt to this unpredicted situation.

At the core of this inevitable shift to online is technology. It is indisputably a powerful tool, but it is only a means to an end, rather than an end in itself. Consequently, it will be more powerful if it will be maximized and will redound to the benefit of the education sector.

With the advent of digital technology, education leaders are expected to take initiatives toward maximizing the full potential of mobile learning applications, wireless access, open digital materials, and online learning resources in the teaching-learning process. As society is rapidly becoming an informationdriven economy, students, being the future leaders must be equipped with a broader body of skills essential for success in the 21st century. Hence, basic education schools and

higher education institutions should heed the call for a transformation of the educational experience aimed at improving the learning environment for all students by integrating emergent technologies with the curriculum and into school facilities.

Because of the pandemic brought about by the COVID-19, schools have devised their continuity learning plan for their students as the country battles against the unseen virus.

As part of the enhancement of the online learning and teaching process, teachers were forced to undergo training on online learning and online assessments. Non-teaching staff was not spared as they also went through work recalibrations. Essential functioning departments in schools did also their part in making online learning more meaningful for the students.

Although all the necessary materials for online learning may be in place, I believe there exists a perennial problem that nobody has control of – this is the Internet connectivity.

This gaffe is not only experienced in the farflung areas but also in the urbanized places in the country. The government and the telecommunications industry must work together to address this problem so that there will be a continuous delivery of quality education in the time of pandemic. In this way, professional depletion in the coming years or even decades will be prevented.

The abovementioned observation in the almost-one-year online learning set-up is manifested in the four-building blocks of transforming and optimizing models of operating universities, i.e. reviewing the strategy, mission, and purpose; improving core capabilities; adopting target operating

model; and modernizing technology.

1. Universities have started to review their management policies, operation principles, business models, mission and vision, and their purpose as an educational institution.

2. The core capabilities of these institutions have to be taken into consideration for the betterment of the delivery of quality education. Core capabilities may be the facilities, faculty qualifications, the salient features of the curricula, research capabilities, and community engagement.

3. Traditional operating model, in the near future, may be abandoned, and a new one will emerge. Universities must have a vision for this. They need to offer novel business models for universities and/or educational institutions so that they will thrive; otherwise, they will be left behind. Benchmarking is also a key to remain relevant in the education sector.

4. Subscribing to the most relevant and most updated technology will be an added advantage to the universities.

It may be costly, especially for those small-scale universities or colleges, but it will certainly help them thrive in the future of online education.

Ultimately, the transformation of education is inevitable. Higher education institutions must adapt to it. There is no other way than to be proactive in the execution of the transformation and optimization of the abovementioned four pillars. As a popular tagline of a bank says, ‘We find ways.’ And yes, we have ways, and we will find ways.

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LIFE OF A STUDENT DURING PANDEMIC TIMES

by Jhayson V. Tadeo

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orona virus disease 2019 dubbed as CoViD19 has captured the world as its hapless hostage. Rich and powerful nations, poor and underdeveloped countries were all victimized by this invisible and seemingly invincible health hazard. Economy slumped to its lowest level as big businesses shut down causing job losses.

Pupils, students, teachers, professors and school administration in the entire Philippines have to grapple and struggle with this ‘new thing’, adapting and coping up with all the unprecedented issues, just to continue learning rather than wait for the face-to-face educational system which looks uncertain due to still rising covid cases that may pose As antidote vaccine is being harm to learners and mentors alike. formulated, there is a hint of hope…

I extend my prayerful gratitude CoViD19 does not only impact to Centro Escolar University for the economy. It changes cultural designing a formula and shifting to patterns and social norms. People are the new normal just to ensure that ushered towards the fundamentals education be instilled undisturbed. and the essentials of life. The To our Dean, Dr. Elena Borromeo primeval principles like ‘Health for the never ending support and is wealth.’ ‘Cleanliness is next to genuine care to all of us and Dr. Godliness.’ ‘Love one another’, being Ma. Concepcion Anda for finding eclipsed by modern technology remedies in our internship program, and secularism, suddenly returned I salute all of you. to people’s consciousness. More significantly, the family as sanctuary Of course, nothing is still better of life gains back importance. ‘Stay than the face-to-face learning or the home, quarantine within the family, old school system. lockdown in love with the family.’

‘Iba pa rin yong attractive This health emergency led me to ambience ng grounds ng CEU, the the realization that Family is indeed traffic-saddled trips going to and a basic and irreplaceable essential of coming from the school. The lobby life. crowded with students rushing to the classrooms to catch shifting This pandemic threatens almost of classes schedules, the active every aspect of life, educational and healthy discussions inside the system obviously not spared. classrooms, the campus tour and Will education as essential to canteen chats and burst of laughter… nation building be stopped ‘till an ’Nakaka-miss talaga…Indeed, there immunization program be developed can never be a replacement to these and massively implemented? It did sights and scenes. Person to person not. learning experience still is the best.’

Thanks to the Department of Education for decisively and proactively acting to implement ‘new normal of learning method’ or what is called now ONLINE STUDY.

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With online classes, I just sat in front of the gadget cam…Audio and video depend largely on the speed of internet connectivity.

Several problems cropped up from

• Ciencia Y Virtud • 2020-2021 GRADUATION SUPPLEMENT

this set up. However, I always tried to discover creative and effective strategies to catch up. My teachers generously adjusted to suit my adaptability. These combined efforts resulted into mutual benefits.

After each schedule of online study, I was given time to relax immediately in the comfort of my mom and dad, my sister-in-law, my niece and nephew, all of them have been giving me the much-needed relief and words of encouragement.

These things I wasn’t able to do in the years I was away for the face-toface learning.

For me, online learning is learning with the family…

With my noble aim of concretizing the objective to achieve the much-desired college diploma and my mentors’ vision-mission of implanting the necessary wisdom among their students, online learning may be ‘new’ but exerting sacrifices even beyond the confines of the halls and walls of the school edifice, is truly commendable and is really a great challenge that entails diligence and focus, to bring aspirations into its fruition and completion.

I appreciate online educational system because it enabled me to do and fulfill the requisites of my internship through webinars.

It was a blend of excitement and longing. I was excited to participate in webinars as much as I was longing for the actual laboratory and person to person learning experience which I surmise, could have been a lot different and surely better. Nevertheless, my mentors and classmates contributed much to

the fulfillment of the requirements.

If and when I shall graduate Now I can tell myself, ‘Hey jhays, and will soon practice this much you’re just a step closer to reaping coveted profession, I would consider the harvest of your hard labor.’ myself so fortunate that I am one of those who survived the threats and During online learning, I came onslaught of this dreaded global to the realization that knowledge pandemic. Graduates under covid19 gained whether through the old circumstances? What a journey it normal or the new normal system, has been!!! is a PRECIOUS TREASURE. More importantly, I was led to the humble An alumnus of Centro Escolar acceptance that GOD must not University, the famous CEU, it be neglected but RECOGNIZED would be a great honor to uphold. all the time, even in the peak A graduate from HEALTH of technological and financial PANDEMIC, an Optometrist in the successes. Because when health is thick of a health crisis, what a huge threatened, wealth loses it monetary challenge to embrace! value and the only ONE who matters most is, GOD. But with all the wisdom, attitude and skills CEU has implanted on the That is why when I was in the students, I am certain I can surpass thick of online classes, I always made the hurdles. it sure that I was ONLINE WITH GOD…His audio I listened to…His GOD is Great! God be praised! video I saw it through…

With hope and prayer, I invest…

I solemnly wish as I fervently pray that these crises shall finally come to its terminal point. I am dearly hoping that the traditional ‘graduation march’ will soon come to its fruition as expected so that jubilation shall be consummated as everyone desires it to be.

What can substitute with the drama of having parents, classmates, mentors, school administration and guests crowding together in a remarkable moment of thanksgiving and merry making? None at all…

However, it is only GOD who knows what the future shall be for all of us. True, vaccination is around the bend. But as to the efficacy that could completely shield us from the virus, we put our trust in God for He alone is the greatest HEALER. 2020-2021 GRADUATION SUPPLEMENT • Ciencia Y Virtud •

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TREADING THE UNFAMILIAR ROAD: MY UMAP-COIL JOINT PROGRAM EXPERIENCE

by PJ Sheed D. Olea

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still vividly remember the day when I was asked to submit my application to the University Mobility in Asia and the Pacific Collaborative Online International Learning (UMAP-COIL) Joint Program. It was met with a bit of hesitance and fear. Looking through the program details, I learned that students from overseas would be joining and that a substantial part of it would be group activities. I am not a social person and collaborating with students abroad has never crossed my mind. However, taking into consideration of what the program could instill in me, I took the road I rarely choose to travel by.

When I first met my groupmates, I was flustered. I did not want to initiate the conversation. We were a team of eight (8) coming from the Philippines (2), Japan (2), Malaysia (1), China (2), and Chile (1). However, I realized that I was not alone because we were all equally embarrassed in our online room.

That is why I braved myself a little and spoke.

I opened about the awkwardness we were experiencing and then we all just burst into laughter. As we continue to meet, work, and sometimes, just chill together, I realized that it was also fun. Getting to know other people is an enriching experience because you get to learn and even live other aspects of life you were previously oblivious of. There’s a certain melancholic beauty in listening to the lives of other people.

Setting aside my personal take on the

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photo by gettyimages

entire experience, I was able to learn significant lessons from the program itself. They were able to raise awareness to various global issues we are experiencing right now. It reminded us that we have this global responsibility to each other and initiate change even at least to ourselves.

For example, being a business-related student, one lesson that struck me was that Not-forProfit Organizations actually have a hard time propagating their social goals simply because they do not have funds for it. That is why business entities should be the ones to be given a substantial responsibility on addressing the social issues of our country because they have the funds to back it up. This idea might not sound now as grand as I perceive it to be but when this topic was brought up, I got my mind blown. There were more moments like this where fresh perspectives were brought up to address old recurring issues. You can see that the program was really well-prepared and enriching that is why there were some CEU students who joined individual course classes with IIGE after.

When I received the Certificate of Excellence after finishing the entire program, I felt happy but only momentarily. I did not really think much about it. That is why I was even more surprised when I got into a newspaper article.

To be honest, up until now, I do not think that I deserve that much of recognition and attention.

I just did what I deemed right all throughout the program and doing what is right should

• Ciencia Y Virtud • 2020-2021 GRADUATION SUPPLEMENT

be normal. Don’t get me wrong. I understand where people might be coming from. They might see the Certificate of Excellence or being in the newspaper as successes and to a certain extent, they are. However, what I view as my successes from this experience are being able to finish the entire course despite having my own online classes, meeting new friends and acquaintances despite being socially awkward, and opening myself to new experiences despite being afraid. Thinking of these rationales makes me happier and more fulfilled.

Having established all of that, there are three things that I would like to impart. First, do your best in whatever you do. No matter what the outcome would be, as long as you did your best, then that is all that matters. Do them religiously without having regards for any potential rewards and everything will come when it is due. The efforts are ours, but the blessings are God’s. Second, do not be afraid to try new things. Stepping out of your comfort zone is scary but it is also where you will grow as a person. Do not deny yourself the opportunity to learn and be better - be it academically or socially, as in my case. You should embrace your fears instead so that you get to work with it. Lastly, have fun. Do not treat things as much of a burden. Look for ways you can make it fun and just enjoy every moment of it. Find the joy in your endeavors and you will realize that it was not so heavy after all. Taking all of these into consideration, in the end, we will always reap what we sowed.

DAPAT BANG MAHALIN KITA? (A Spoken Poetry)

by Carlito B. Olaer

photo by unsplash

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to ay para sa ‘yo na nagmamahal at minamahal:

baka naman, iba ang hinahanap mo at hindi ako?

‘Di ba’t ang salita ang nagpapahayag kung ano ang saloobin natin? Kung sino ka? O kung sino ako? ‘Di ba’t ang mga salita din ang nagpapahayag ng ating mga mga hinaing, mga pananaw..mga pangarap natin? Di ba’t salita ang gamit natin para tayo maintindihan kung ano ang ating mga nararamdaman? Pero bakit kung minsan, hindi kita maintindihan? Bakit kung minsan, hindi mo rin ako maintindihan?

May mali ba sa mga salitang ginamit natin?

Huwag kang mag-alala, ‘okay’ lang ako.

Kahit hindi mo susuklian ang inilaan kong pagmamahal sa iyo. Hayaan mo lang na mahalin kita. Para sa akin, ang mahalaga ay nasabi ko sa ‘yo na ikaw ang laman ng aking puso.

Sabi mo, mahal mo ako. Bakit ang pakiramdam ko parang hindi totoo? Parang ayaw paniwalaan ng puso ko ang mga sinasabi mo. Alam mo ba ang dahilan kung bakit nagaalinlangan ako? Ang layo kasi ng lipad ng isip mo tuwing magkasama tayo. Ang lamig ng loob mo tuwing may nakakatuwang kuwento ako sa’ yo. Pilit kong magpasaya pero ayaw mong ngumiti o tumawa. Kailangan ko pa bang itanong uli kung totoo bang mahal mo ako?

Ibahin ko na lang ang tanong. Hindi kaya, ginagamit mo lang ako para mapunan ang iyong kakulangan? Kung ‘yan ang nasa isip mo…huwag kang mabahala. WALA NG KULANG SA ‘YO. Hindi ko mamasamain kung ‘yan ang iyong dahilan bakit mahal mo ako. Dahil ‘yan ang kahulugan ng totoong nagmamahal. Kung may kulang sa ‘yo, hayaan mong bubuuin ka ng pag-ibig ko dahil sa sarili ko, kaya ako nagmamahal para maging buo rin ako.

Mahal kita. Mahal mo ba ako?

Kung may pag-aalinlangan ka pa rin, hindi kaya kulang ang pagmamahal ko? O

Huwag kang mag-alala, ibubulong ko na lang sa hangin ang aking damdamin. Sa pamamagitan ng panalangin, panaghoy ay isa na ring awitin sa paanan ng Diyos na nasa langit din. Sana lang, tama ang aking pagibig. Sana nga, tama ang puso ko na ikaw ang iniibig ko.

Nakakalungkot isipin, di ba, na may umiiyak dahil walang nagmamahal? may nagtataksil dahil may iba pang mahal? Bakit may mga taong pumapatay dahil sa pag-ibig?

Bakit may nagpapatiwakal dahil nabigo sa pag-ibig?

Oo nga, mahiwaga at makapangyarihan ang pag-ibig. Paiikutin ka, paglalaruan ka at paluluhain ka… kung hindi ka marunong umibig! Ngunit kung tunay at tapat kang nagmamahal, hindi laro ang pag-big kailan man. Masaktan ka man, kahit pagtaksilan ka pa, mismong lungkot at pag-iisa ay iduduyan ka.

Ngayong araw ng mga puso, dalawang kataga ang bibigkasin ko: ‘Mahal kita.” Huwag kang mag-alala. Hindi ko na lang itatanong kung mahal mo rin ako.’

Kung iisipin, alin ba ang mas makahulugan? Ikaw na nagmamahal o ikaw na minamahal?

May sinisino ba ang pag-ibig? May tamang panahon ba kung kailan ang puso iibig?

Tama ang sinasabi ng isang awitin: ‘kung hindi ako magmamahal, sino ako?‘ Ito ang simula ng lahat: mamahalin ko ang sarili ko, mahalin mo ang sarili mo.

Hindi natin magagawang magmahal sa iba kung hindi natin mahal ang ating mga sarili. Dahil anong pag-ibig ang iaalay natin sa bawat isa kung sa sarili natin wala tayong maibibigay?

Kung makasarili ang pag-ibig natin, bibiguin tayo nito.

Kung hindi makasarili ang pag-ibig natin, bubuuin tayo nito.

Sinabi ng Diyos, ’Mahal kita.’ Naniniwala ka ba? Maniwala ka dahil Siya ay pag-ibig.

Maniwala ka pag sinabi ng Diyos, 'mahal kita' dahil kilala ka Niya. Ipinakita Niya.

Ginawa niya. Ang tanong, Mahal mo ba ang Diyos?

Kung sasabihin ko sa ‘yo na ‘mahal kita’, paniniwalaan mo ba ako? Maaaring hindi dahil hindi mo alam kung sino ako. Maaaring maghahanap ka pa ng mga patunay bago mo ako paniniwalaan.

Pero, alam mo ba ang dahilan kung bakit mahal kita?

Oo, mahal kita at dapat kitang mahalin dahil UNA KANG MINAHAL NG DIYOS para sa akin.

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