EIC EMERGES VICTORIOUS WITH 2ND PLACE WIN IN WRITING CONTEST

by Ronalyn L. Labto

Adaniel receives a medal, certificate, and a cash prize following her victory in the On-the-Spot Essay Writing Contest during the 61st NRYLI at Baguio City.

      On Dec. 9, Catherine V. Adaniel, the Editor-in-Chief of CAPSUNIAN ECHO, clinched Second Place in the On-the-Spot Essay Writing Contest during the awarding ceremony of the 61st National Rizal Youth Leadership Institute (NRYLI), an annual event that provides venue among youth leaders for them to be more aware of the contemporary issues affecting them as well as develop their leadership skills and internalize their moral character, civic consciousness, responsible citizenship, love of country, and pride of our race, with the vision of our national hero infused in it, held at Baguio Teachers Camp, Baguio City, from Dec. 7 to 10.

    Adaniel, together with Dr. Raymond J. Silvestre, Student Publication Chair, was one of the participants from Capiz State University who joined the delegation, along with other student-leaders and advisers from private and state colleges and universities all over the Philippines, who were provided with leadership sessions and Rizalian lessons, in addition to various contests, such as the Rizal and History Quiz Bee, the On-the-Spot Essay Writing Contest, the Extemporaneous Speaking Contest, the Oratorical Contest, the On-the-Spot Painting Contest, and Journalism Contests.

    “We were tasked with writing an essay about the topic ‘Rizal Youth of Today: Preserving a Rich Filipino History Towards a Sustainable Future,’ and I’ve got the chance to write a composition revolving around the fact that the youth of the 21st century play a crucial role in fostering and preserving the nationalistic fervor of the national hero,” Adaniel explained.

       The 61st NRYLI with the theme “Rizalian Values: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow” was hosted by the Knights of Rizal, a cultural, non-sectarian, non-partisan, non-racial, civic, and patriotic organization chartered under Republic Act 646, as an instrumentality by which the teachings of our foremost national hero may be propagated among the Filipino people, specifically the youth, who may believe in his teachings to the end that they emulate and follow his examples.

    “It was a great feeling and a remarkable accomplishment to be awarded 2nd place in a national on-the-spot essay writing contest, especially that it was organized by such a prestigious organization and taken part in by notable national and government leaders, cause-oriented personalities, academicians, business professionals, and inspiring youth leaders,” the editor-in-chief added.

CAPSU BURIAS TRIUMPHS WITH MULTIPLE ACCOLADES AT RDE PAGTUKIB 2023

by Rona Joy L. Labto and Jeanelle O. Ledesma

CAPSU Burias Faculty celebrate success as they proudly receive various awards for outstanding achievements in the fields of research and innovation.

    On Dec. 6, at Capiz State University (CAPSU) Main Campus, Roxas City, CAPSU Burias faculty and staff received several recognitions and awards during the RDE PAGTUKIB 2023 for their outstanding performance in research, extension, and innovation in the course of various conferences and symposiums held throughout 2023.

    One of the most notable achievements of the Campus was beingrecognized as the Most Promising Campusin IPMO Management, Most Promising Campus in Research Services, and the 2nd Place in the Booth Design/Display Competition during the RDE PAGTUKIB 2023. These recognitions highlight the Campus's excellence in effectively managing its Intellectual Property Management Office, which plays a pivotal role in protecting and commercializing the university's intellectual property assets, as well as exemplify its commitment to conducting high-quality research that contributes to the development of the local community and society at large. Engr. Monalyn L. Oloroso, on the other hand, was awarded as the Outstanding Researcher of the Year, while Prof. Mark L. Sibug clinched the 1st Runner Up in the Extensionist of the Year Award. 

    Winners during the 41st CAPSU RDE Faculty Year-end Symposium on Nov. 14-15 held at CAPSU Pontevedra Campus also received acknowledgement and awards, including Prof. Mark L. Sibug,who was declared the 2nd Runner Up in the Extension Category with his “Help through Entrepreneurship and Livelihood Skills Project (HEALS) 2.0,” Engr. Monalyn L. Oloroso, Dr. Efren L. Linan, and Engr. Julito A. Albaladejo who won the Best Paper in the Developmental/Engineering Research Category with their paper entitled “Development of Computer Simulated Biomass-Fired Multilayered Fish Dryer”, Mr. Jay Ramon M. Alayon who received the Best Presenter Award in the Extension Category, Dr. Rodyard B. Madiclum, Prof. Angeline L. Vestidas, Prof. Glen Rose L. Mejia, Prof. Irene S. Sequito, Prof. Davidica L. Avelino, and Mr. Jay Ramon M. Alayon who secured the 1st Runner Up in the Extension Category with their “Project HULAS (Health Unlimited for Longer Life and Agility of Senior Citizens) of Burias, Mambusao, Capiz”, and Dr. Salvacion J. Legaspi, Mr. Raymund Lizada, and Mr. Arnold V. Dela Rosa Jr. who achieved the 2nd Runner Up in Natural/Biological Research Category with their “Pest and Soil Fertility Dynamics Under Organic Cultivation System.”

   During the event, faculty and staff who won in international, national, and regional symposia and conferences were commended and awarded as well, including Dr. Salvacion J. Legaspi for attaining the Best Research Paper Presenter – Science and Technology Category Award for the research paper entitled: “Production of Coconut Seedling and Copra in a Single Nut: An Innovative Approach in Coconut Production” during the 1st International Multidisciplinary Research and Extension Conference at Batanes State College on Sept. 19-22; Dr. Romulo N. Lagon for attaining 2nd Place in Best Research Paper Award for the research paper entitled: “Stress, Coping Mechanism and Motivation of Student-Mothers of CAPSU Burias” during the 2023 International Research Conference on Education, Business, and Science & Technology at Cebu City on July 20-22; Prof. Salve M. Ferrer for attaining the Best Research Paper – Professional Category Award for the research paper entitled: “Management Capability and Financial Performance of Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) in Jamindan, Capiz” during the 1st Research Competition and 33rd National Conference of Council Management Educators and Professional’s in the Philippines at Baguio City on Nov. 18; and Engr. Monalyn L. Oloroso for attaining the Best Paper Award for the research paper entitled: “Design, Simulation and Development of Biomass-Fired Fish Dryer” during the 3rd Western Visayas Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research Conference at Iloilo City on Oct. 24-25 and the Outstanding Creative Research Award for the research paper entitled: “Development of Optimized Pineapple Leaf Fiber Scraping Machine” during the Regional Invention Contests and Exhibits – Visayas Cluster on Oct. 17-18.

    Another notable recognition acquired during the PAGPASIDUNGOG was presented to Engr. Oloroso for the 40% Royalty Share as Inventor of the technologies, Roller Type Slitter, and Presser Machine for Fruit Juice Extraction fabricated and deployed to the PR Farm, as well as the Calamansi Juice Extractor with her co-inventors: Dr. Efren L. Linan, Engr. Arlyn C. Olmo, Ms. Lorelen V. Rano, and Mr. Darwin Quirao, which was fabricated and deployed to St. Joseph Food Products.

   Moreover, Dr. Charina C. Gloria and Dr. Ryan T. Sarimong were recognized as two of the CAPSU Faculty Researchers Listed in the AD Scientific Index 2024, a comprehensive ranking and analysis system that evaluates the scientific performance and productivity of individual scientists and researchers all over the world.

   The importance that CAPSU places on research, innovation, and community development is evident from the recognitions and honors that it has received. The accomplishments of the faculty and staff of Burias Campus alone are evidence of their undying commitment to their respective fields and their exceptional level of expertise in those disciplines.

CAPSU BURIAS UNDERGOES 3-DAY ISO IQA 

by Catherine V. Adaniel and Kierlo O. Tencio

In photo: The CAF headed by Dr. Ryan T. Sarimong, Dean, goes through ISO IQA, and Dr. Napoleon Albor serves as the auditor of the college.

 

    To promote continuous improvements and innovations in terms of quality educational practices and system for a more conducive learning environment, CAPSU Burias underwent ISO 9001-2015 Internal Quality Audit (IQA) on Oct. 25-27 that centered on auditing the different offices of the Campus by the ISO Internal Audit team from CAPSU Pontevedra composed of seven auditors, including the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Susan O. Dangan, and led by Dr. Fe Mae Laborte, Quality Assurance Chairperson.

 

        The IQA Program aims to check and monitor the processes and functions vital to the department or area, verify conformity with applicable statutory and regulatory requirements as well as ISO 9001:2015 requirements, follow up the results of the previous audits, and obtain and maintain ISO 9001:2015 QMS implementation.

 

     “The Burias Campus recognizes the internal audit function as one of the fundamental checks and balances pillars of the University for the sound operation of the Burias Campus, specifically,” Dr. Rodyard B. Madiclum, Campus Administrator, said during his opening remarks. 

     

    The auditing team also included Dr. Marianne Escleto, Dr. Napoleon Albor, Dr. Pet Roana Batacandolo, Dr. Ferdinand Anabo, and Prof. Mae Ann Balbino, who were deployed to particular offices to internally check the performances and functioning of every area in accordance with international standards. 
          

       Dr. Laborte explained that, “The audit is to lessen, as much to our desire, eliminate deviations as specified in the ISO standards and, of course, for opportunities for improvement.”

 

    The IQA also involved checking and verification of the management, processes, functions, transactions, and evidence of adherence to ISO 9001:2015 QMS implementation of the four colleges/departments of the Campus, including the College of Agriculture & Forestry (CAF), College of Education (COE), College of Management (CM), and Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (DABE); as well as conducting triangulation of observations, writing of results, and presentation of recommendations and suggestions for improvements, particularly in the areas of design, development, and provisions of tertiary education, including other support services.

 SOCIAL STUDIES SOCIETY ORGANIZES  SSS BASH

by Kierlo O. Tencio

Along with contests like Quiz Bowl, Debate, Poster Making Contest, Runway, and Contemporary Dance, the SSS also conducts a parade of national costumes.

United Nations Month is annually celebrated, and this year, the Social Studies Society (SSS), a minor organization from the College of Education (COE), spearheaded the celebration dubbed as the “SSS Bash” on Oct. 23 at the Campus Gymnasium.

The program started with opening remarks from Prof. Nean E. Loro, SSS Adviser, and a welcome message from Dr. Rogelio C. Flores Jr., Principal of the Laboratory High School, followed by a unity dance rendered by the SSS officers and members.

During the program, Mr. Rey Lacao, the invited guest speaker, talked about how bringing cultures together may transform each of us into an empowered individual and that “history is not the past; it is a map of the past created from a specific point of view for the benefit of modern travelers." 

According to the SSS, to provide a platform where students can investigate the mysteries of history in a practical and engaging manner, stimulating students' ingenuity, cooperation, and teamwork, the organizers conducted activities and contests in line with the theme "Exploring Global Connections: Uniting Cultures, Empowering Change," including Quiz Bowl, Debate, Poster Making Contest, Runway, and Contemporary Dance, participated in by students from the COE.

"Let us remember that the pursuit of global peace, cooperation, and sustainable development is an ongoing journey. We hope that the learnings from this occasion resonate in your hearts and minds. Together, we can strive for a morally united and equitable world," Ms. Liera Mae Abalajon, SSS President, said during her closing remarks.

CAPSU BURIAS TAKES PART IN GEARING FOR 23RD GAWAD KALASAG AWARD

by Wendy Eunice P. Duntog

Dr. Elmer M. Albaladejo, University NSTP Director, takes the honor to introduce the six validators from the CHED, OCD, and World Vision, who serve as the National Field Evaluation Team.

 On Oct. 12, Capiz State University Burias Campus welcomed the members of the National Field Evaluation Team of the 23rd Gawad KALASAG Award Search for Excellence in Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) and Humanitarian Assistance Special Awards for Higher Education Institution Category, seeing that the University was shortlisted as one of the finalists in the Special Award for Best Higher Education Institution Category.

 Gawad KALASAG, as outlined in Memorandum Circular No. 01 Series of 2008 by the National Disaster Coordinating Council, aims to acknowledge the outstanding performance of local disaster coordinating councils, private/volunteer organizations, NGOs, donor agencies, and communities as key stakeholders in implementing significant DRRM projects and activities, as well as recognize the individuals, groups, or institutions that have displayed extraordinary courage, heroism, self-sacrifice, and bravery during natural and human-made emergencies and calamities.

         Dr. Elmer M. Albaladejo, University NSTP Director, introduced the six validators from an inter-government team composed by Mr. Eugene C. Garcia and Ms. Cynthia Q. Hernandez from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED); Ms. Romina B. Marasigan, Ms. Jemaimah Anne P. Isubal, Mr. Larz Vincent Camaligan, Mr. Christian Emmanuel L. Verzola, and Mr. Jan Daryl D. Solivas from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD); and Mr. Loreto B. Mina from the World Vision.

  As part of the program, CAPSU Burias, together with the Bureau of Fire Protection Region Vl Mambusao, conducted a fire drill activity to promote and ensure preparedness and safety among students, faculty, and staff during fire emergencies and to help them familiarize themselves with the proper way of using a fire extinguisher while CAPSU Tapaz Satellite College also presented Kurob, an indigenous shelter used by the indigenous people as their temporary safe zone in times of hazard.

 Furthermore, DRRM CARES Organization officers presented a video presentation about Capiz State University Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Crisis Assistance Response Emergency Services (DRRM CARES), explaining the function and duties of the organization, why CAPSU Burias established it, and what activities and programs the organization does.

 Ms. Marasigan expressed her profound gratitude for the warm welcome of the University and said that CAPSU never failed to give the best, adding that may it achieve more success in the future. 

 

 CLOSING AND TESTIMONIAL PROGRAM: THE HEARTFELT ATTESTATIONS OF TWO SEA-TEACHER PROJECT PARTICIPANTS

by Rona Joy L. Labto and Jeanelle O. Ledesma

CAPSU Burias conducts a closing ceremony for Ms. Nisrina and Ms. Erpapalemlah, the two Indonesian SEA-Teacher Student Exchange Program participants, together with the cooperating teachers from MNHS, as the SEA-Teacher Project comes to an end.

            Capiz State University Burias Campus honors the two of the 9th Batch of SEA-Teacher Project participants through the Closing and Testimonial Program on Oct. 4, celebrating their internship, contributions, experiences in the Philippines, and roles as part of the CAPSU Burias family.

As Ms. Nur Salwa Nisrina and Ms. Panisyah Nasyro Janna Erpapalemlah walked down the aisle, cheers filled the air, marking their farewells to their second home and the institution that made them feel connected and loved, showering them with applause and smiles throughout the farewell program.

“You will cherish this moment for the rest of your lives. We will miss you, Wawa and Nishya, dearly. Please carry these memories with you,” Dr. Rodyard B. Madiclum, Campus Administrator, expressed in his opening remarks.

The program was dedicated to the ladies who ceremonially capped their education pre-service internship journey on Wednesday afternoon at the Campus Gymnasium that was filled by mixed emotions coming from the honorees, members of the faculty and staff, and students, and the program rolled up with an audiovisual showcasing the incredible journey of the SEA-Teachers.

             “As we come to the end of this remarkable journey, we gather here to celebrate the successful completion of the SEA-Teachers Student Exchange Program. It has been an extraordinary experience filled with valuable insights, cultural exchange, and lifelong friendships. We have witnessed the power of education to bridge gaps, break barriers, and fostercollaboration among nations,” Dr. Romulo N. Lagon, College of Education Dean, stated in his speech during the program.

The emotions from the participants and the audience intensified as the two honorees gave their testimonies and expressed gratitude to the people who helped them.

“I apologize if I’m crying because I tend to cry easily...Burias is not a strange place to me anymore; it’s already my home, and my heart belongs to this place. Since the first day I arrived here, I want to thank all of you for your warm welcome and love,” Ms. Nisrina exclaimed.

Moreover, the interns shared their thoughts and experiences as participants of the SEA-Teacher Project.

            “I’d like to start by saying that CAPSU Burias is such a beautiful place with breathtaking scenery. The people here are incredibly kind and welcoming, so I never felt like a stranger in this place. I already consider this my second family… I’m grateful to them for their constant support, " Ms. Erpapalemlah revealed.

Meanwhile, the project’s partners from cooperating school, the Mambusao National High School (MNHS) where the two exchange-students practiced internship through delivering English and Science education to Grade 10 and Grade 8 students respectively, also articulated the participation in the internationalization endeavor of CAPSU.

"Hand in hand, we will all work together to help these teachers become the best versions of themselves and future educators," Dr. Raydelyn P. Laquiña uttered in a speech on behalf of the cooperating school.

Dr. Archile C. Abogadie, Student Affairs and Services Chairperson of the Campus, expressed her appreciation to all in a speech that concluded the event that according to her was a celebration of the academic and cultural journey of the two ladies who possessed the courage to break through racial barriers, and build connections.

    FILIPINO CLASSROOM SETTING: IMMERSING THRU FOREIGNS' LENSES

by Dessa Angel D. Laz and Elijah Villaflor

The Filipino classroom setting is a vibrant and diverse environment where education takes on a unique cultural flavor. It reflects not only the country's commitment to learning but also the rich tapestry of traditions, values, and social dynamics that define Filipino society. The moment Ms. Nisrina and Ms. Erpapalemlah arrived at CAPSU Burias, they sensed the warmth of the students, teachers, and staff of the institution.

As they strolled around the Campus with their buddies to show them around, they were able to interact and converse with various folks. With that, they were introduced to the Philippines as a nation of diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and vibrant communities by looking at the heart of its classrooms, where the future of the nation takes shape. The Filipino classrooms are a crucible where young minds are molded and nurtured, and where the seeds of knowledge and dreams of a brighter tomorrow are sown.

On Sept. 18, as part of their internship program, the SEA Teachers, Ms. Nisrina and Ms. Erpapalemlah conducted class observations and curriculum orientation at Mambusao National High School (MNHS), Tumalalud, Mambusao, Capiz, the cooperating school, with the guidance of their cooperating teachers, Mr. Joven A. Loja, Biology Teacher, and Dr. Raydelyn P. Laquina, English Teacher. After several days, they had their first classes as practice teachers.

          Ms. Nisrina shared her expertise in the field of biology. She inspired her students to think critically and explore the wonders of the natural world. Her interactive teaching style left a lasting impact on the students, fostering their curiosity and passion for science. Meanwhile, Ms. Erpapalemlah focused on teaching English as a second language. Her interactive and innovative teaching methods captivated the students' interest and helped them develop their language skills.

The presence of the Indonesian teachers at Mambusao National High School not only enriched the students' learning experience but also provided an opportunity for cultural exchange. The students were exposed to the Indonesian culture, traditions, and educational practices, broadening their horizons and fostering a global perspective.

Moreover, the exchange program also allowed Filipino educators to gain new insights and perspectives from their Indonesian counterparts. The exchange of teaching methodologies and experiences enabled both groups of teachers to enhance their professional skills and discover fresh approaches to instruction.

When asked about their contrastable observations between the classroom setting in the Philippines and Indonesia, they noticed that it was very different. One of the instances they mentioned is that in Indonesia, there are usually 34 students in each classroom. At every table, there are two students, and they also implement one table apart between each table. In the Philippines, on the other hand, the classroom set-ups are usually arranged with desks or tables and chairs for students, often in rows or groups, facing the front of the room where the teacher's desk or podium is located. Classroom sizes can vary, with some schools having smaller classrooms due to limited resources.

From the warm, familial atmosphere created within the four walls of the classrooms that fosters a strong sense of community and camaraderie among the students and teachers to the boundless enthusiasm for learning and creativity, the two witnessed the dreams, hope, and resilience of Filipino students unfolding daily.