CAF UNDERGOES INSPECTION, MONITORING 

by Maribel Matillano 

The College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF) of CAPSU Burias underwent an inspection and monitoring visit on March 26 at Bermejo Hall by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) Team. 

The PRC Team, led by Hon. Emma K. Sales, Chairperson of the Professional Regulatory Board (PRB) of Agriculture, Hon. Annabelle S. Sarabia, PRB Member, and Mary Grace Catalan, PRC Iloilo Representative, inspected and monitored the CAF’s performance and compliance with regulatory standards.

Dr. Rodyard B. Madiclum, Campus Administrator, welcomed the team and expressed gratitude for their efforts in assessing the campus's programs. 

"You are here not only to evaluate but to guide us here in our program. We will contribute to the betterment of this university, not only as humble Campus but also as individuals who learned how to love this campus and program... Thank you so much for coming to our campus...," Dr. Madiclum said.

Dr. Rossandrew B. Villaruel, Quality Assurance Director, also shared an inspirational message, highlighting the importance of the affair and the technical assistance that the PRC team extends.

"In the exercise of our calling, work and mission with dedication and zeal..., we gave our best each day, especially today, and we will welcome the findings of our partners for the good of the University," Dr. Villaruel said.

Hon. Sales expressed her delight for the warm reception of the monitoring team, and proceeded with orienting the audience of the purpose of the visit.

"We inspect and monitor so that we can see and evaluate... the practice of the agriculture profession... We are here to point out your strengths and improve some more. Of course, we would like also to see your weaknesses so that we can give you tips on how to improve and enhance, especially on the passing of the licensure exam... improve the passing rate of your graduates, " Hon. Sales stated.

The PRC team scrutinized the presented documents, interviewed course facilitators, and reviewed instructional materials to ensure that the curricular contents and delivery are aligned with regulatory board specifications. Among others, they also inspected physical facilities, including laboratories, to assess compliance with infrastructure requirements.

In the afternoon, the team conducted a feedback session, established agreements on compliance timeframes and signed pertinent papers relative to the monitoring.

 PADAYON: WENDY EUNICE DUNTOG’S LILAC AWARD TRIUMPH 

by Rhealyn G. Cala 

Graphics: Arjie O. Ledesma 

What Sets Women’s Leadership Apart?

Every March, the world celebrates women’s contributions to society, recognizing their rights, opportunities, and impact. Women have long demonstrated resilience, vision, and strength in leadership, challenging traditional biases along the way.

At Capiz State University (CAPSU) Burias, Wendy Eunice Pequeño Duntog, a third-year English major, embodies these qualities. On March 21, she was honored with the Ladies In Leadership, Advocacy & Community (LILAC) Award during the Purple Hour Month 2025 RCCWOI Culminating Event at Destiny City Church, Roxas City. This recognition celebrates her dedication to leadership and service, sending a powerful message to young women: refuse to be defined by limitations.

Like any journey, Ms. Duntog’s path to leadership was not without obstacles. Reflecting on her experiences, she shared:

“I have been told that from the very beginning, I wasn’t a good leader. I think I’m never going to overcome it, but I have to deal with it; I am not everyone’s cup of tea, so be it. Besides, they don’t know the hustle and bustle behind every failure or success. I have learned that leadership is subjective; I can’t please everyone.”

Her story highlights the common struggles women face in leadership—criticism, self-doubt, and societal expectations. However, she refuses to let these challenges define her.

Ms. Duntog also addresses the stereotypes surrounding female leaders:

“I think the biggest misconception about women is that they are emotional; they tend to act by their feelings but not their mind. But as we are now in this modern society, that misconception must slowly fade. It is really amazing that CAPSU is open and supportive of having women leaders like me.”

Her perspective reflects a broader movement advocating for gender equity in leadership, breaking outdated stereotypes that have long hindered women’s progress.

When asked what advice she would give to aspiring female leaders, Ms. Duntog shared a single yet profound word: Padayon—a Visayan term meaning to continue, to move forward.

“Padayon, this word has been my great advice to myself, and now, I want to share it with you. I know the journey may be tough, but it will pay off. Continue, a simple word but with great meaning; sometimes life gives us challenges; for you to overcome them, you have to padayon. Continue smiling, continue hustling, continue fighting, continue waking up in the morning, and continue dreaming.”

Her message resonates beyond leadership; it is a call to perseverance in all aspects of life. Padayon encapsulates Ms. Duntog's commitment empowered by her compassionate leadership, a kind that is exemplary. 

Beyond this recognition, Ms. Duntog holds several leadership positions: President of DRRRM-CARES, an Officer of Future Leaders of the Philippines (FLP) Burias Chapter, Associate Editor of Capsunian Echo, and an engaged student leader in her academic community. Her advocacy is not just about the titles she holds but about the positive impact she strives to make.

Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, vision, and determination. Through Padayon, she continues to inspire the next generation of women leaders to embrace challenges and push forward—undaunted, unstoppable, and unbreakable.

 CAPSU BURIAS ALUMNI INAUGURATE BALAY ALUMNI 

by Niel Montes

Photo credit: Josua Graciadas & Jade N. Pacola 

Alumni of CAPSU Burias inaugurated the Balay Alumni, its latest completed project located at the campus thru a ceremonial ribbon-cutting on March 20 led by Engr. Nerio Harion, Alumni Federation President, Dr. Salvacion Legaspi, University Vice President for External Affairs and Linkages, at the same time Officer of CAPSU Burias Alumni Association, Prof. Davidica L. Avelino, Alumni and Community Affairs Director, and Dr. Rodyard B. Madiclum, Campus Administrator.

The reconstructed building serves as an alumni lounge, and offers spaces to accommodate gatherings, networking events, and seminars. It consists of three rooms, two comfort rooms, and a living room.

"Our alumni will have a place to stay... Whoever wants to use it can do so anytime... Of course, it's also a blessing because this is where I graduated from, and I’m proud of it,"  Engr. Nerio Harion shared.

The alumni office acknowledges the generosity of several individuals, alumni batches and alumni organizations who contributed for the completion of the project, and  shared that one of the major sponsors of the reconstruction of the building was Engr. Nerio V. Harion.

"We would like to extend our thanks to Sir Nerio... for (his) generosity and for providing almost everything in this building," Dr. Legaspi shared.

Moreover,  Balay Alumni stands to promote engagement and collaboration, encouraging alumni to remain active participants in the University’s mission, and serves a hallmark of loyalty and gratitude to their alma mater.

"The support of our alumni is a testament to their lasting loyalty and gratitude to our alma mater. Every donation, no matter the size, is crucial in strengthening our community and shaping a brighter future for generations to come. Thank you for your generosity and steadfast commitment," Prof. Avelino expressed.

 "THERE IS ALWAYS A NEED TO DO BETTER." - VETERAN NEWS HEAD 

by Joshua Dela Torre 

Regina "Ging" Reyes, former ABS-CBN Head of Integrated News and Current Affairs, enjoined campus journalists to contribute to the betterment of the country by being part of the truth-seeking profession as she delivered the keynote speech during the 3rd National Campus Journalism Convention on March 9 in the City of Manila.

Acknowledging that the news media industry faces a crisis, Reyes told the campus journalists that "There is always a need to do better... We have a news media industry that is in crisis... That is why there is a need for stronger journalism."

CAPSUNIAN ECHO participates in the national convention organized by Transforming Advocate and Champions (TRAC). Editorial Board members Paul Adynn T. Gamayao and Joshua G. Dela Torre represent the publication.

The participation aligns with the celebration of World Press Freedom Day on May 3, 2025.