CAPSU LEADERSHIP TRAINING FORTIFY STUDENT-LEADERS 

by Nomer S. Narciso Jr.

Four student-leaders from CAPSU Burias partake in the FSSC and FFLP Leadership Training 2024, together with their advisers.

    From May 29 to 31, 2024, the Federation of Supreme Student Council (FSSC) and the Federation of Future Leaders of the Philippines (FFLP) of Capiz State University organized a leadership training event at San Antonio Resort, Baybay, Roxas City, with a theme of “ONE CAPSU, UNITING LEADERS, IGNITING PURPOSE,” bringing together student-leaders from the different CAPSU campuses and satellite colleges to promote unity and enhance leadership skills.

    Jewwelly Hansel Joy B. Degoma, outgoing SSC President; Kristine Jill F. Llegue, incoming SSC President; Kierlo O. Tencio, outgoing FLP Burias Chapter President; and Joemari M. Candido, incoming FLP Burias Chapter President, together with Prof. Ne-an E. Loro, SSC Adviser; Prof. Joan Rae L. Lantoria, FLP Burias Chapter Adviser; and Dr. Jejomar L. Farinas, participated and represented CAPSU Burias in the said pursuit.

    "The FSSC and FFLP Leadership Training 2024 was significant in fostering essential leadership skills such as communication, teamwork, problem- solving, and decision-making. We explored strategies for motivating and inspiring others, emphasizing the importance of these skills in uniting peers and colleagues toward common goals," Llegue stated to highlight the event's significance in enhancing leadership capabilities among student-leaders.

    One of the main goals of the event is to motivate participants to discover and activate their sense of purpose, ultimately emerging them to create significant influence in their communities and beyond through carrying out three core plenary sessions: (1) Knowing Your Purpose, which encouraged self-reflection and purposeful leadership, (2) Managing Stress, Balancing Academics, and Leadership, which provided practical advice on time management and well- being, and (3) Resolution and Communication Letter Making, which focused on developing essential communication skills. 

    "As I strive for the betterment of the student body, I believe that this training will serve as a training ground to help improve the current state of the studentry and the University," Tencio expressed.

    The event wrapped up with a team-building activity that enhanced teamwork, a sense of working together among the young leaders, supporting them in creating a stronger and more united leadership community in CAPSU and getting ready to apply the new skills and knowledge acquired during the training.

"During the FSSC and FFLP Leadership Training 2024, I had a fantastic and enriching experience. Meeting my co-presidents from various campuses and satellite colleges was a pleasure, making the training both enjoyable and insightful," Llegue further shared.

    Moreover, Llegue got elected as Assistant Secretary in the election for the Federation of Supreme Student Council (FSSC), along with other officers from the different campuses and satellite colleges.

HONORING HERITAGE: CAPIZTAHAN STREET DANCE CHAMPS 

by Erica Mae G. Cala and Esamei G. Legaspi

Street dancers from CAPSU Burias emerge as the 1st Runner-Up in the Street Dance Competition during the CAPIZTAHAN FESTIVAL 2024.

Photo Credits: Capiz Provincial Government Communications Group

    Who can say we are doing enough to preserve our culture? 

    In the heart of Capiz, where the coastal breezes carry whispers of the past and the vibrant culture pulses through every street, the CAPIZTAHAN FESTIVAL stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Capisnon people. 

    With the aim of highlighting and promoting the values and culture of Capiznon, the province of Capiz, situated in the island of Panay in the Philippines, celebrates the “Mother of All Festivals” in Capiz – the CAPIZTAHAN, a combination of “Capiz” referring to the name of the province and “pista” from the Spanish term for “festival.”

    Showcasing the culture of the Capizeños, the event encapsulated the commemoration of Capiz founding anniversary, death anniversary of Pres. Roxas, and the celebration of the Seafood Culture. Usually celebrated every 15th of April, this year it was made a month-long celebration by Gov. Fredenil H. Castro. This catalyzed the opportunity for the province to display its cultural diversity, historical pride, and activate the very essence of being a Capizeño.

    As the sun rose over the tranquil waters of Pilar Bay, Roxas City awakened with anticipation. Grand floats filled the streets, adorned with colorful banners, while the sounds of laughter, music, and the rhythmic beats of drums magnified the festivities.

    Then on April 27, the MARAGTAS SANG CAPISNON: HISTORICAL PARADE, STREET DANCING, AND PERFORMANCES (DANCE DRAMA) commenced, a tradition that has grown to symbolize the

soul of CAPIZTAHAN. 

    Known to have over 30 dances which depict the province’s culture, values, and people’s way of life, Capiz highlighted MARAGTAS SANG CAPISNON as it featured colorful and vibrant performances from various groups, featuring traditional costumes, music, and dances that reflected the heritage and legends of Capiz. This competition formed part of the CAPIZTAHAN FESTIVAL 2024, synchronous with the Historical Parade, which took the main highway route from SM City Roxas to Pueblo de Panay TechnoPark.

    Festival goers witnessed over 20 dance drama performances showcasing the historical timeline of the Province of Capiz. 

    Capiz State University (CAPSU) Burias Campus along with others contingents from different towns, clad in lively costumes that reflect the diversity and richness of Capisnon culture, gathered in the heart of the city.

    On the day of the competition, the streets of Roxas City transformed into a vibrant canvas, alive with the energy of performers and spectators alike. The air thickened with excitement, and as performers took their places, a profound sense of purpose enveloped them. The music began, and with it, their story unfolded. Each twirl and leap paid tribute to the Maragtas, the ancient chronicles that recount the origins of the people, reminding them of the strength and unity that have carried them through generations. The street dancers performed not just for the judges, but for every Capisnon who had come before them, for those who stood beside them, and for the future generations who would carry the torch forward.

    It is through this involvement that one could truly say that we are doing the best that we can through participating in the celebration of the CAPIZTAHAN. The smiles, laughter, and stories of experiences validated the effort given by everybody to make the spirit of the Capizeños alive. It is also through the celebration that the heart of the province continues to beat to live for its people. One  of the living testimonies of preserving and valuing what Capiz has to offer - the CAPIZtahan.

    This is organized by Capiz Provincial Government through the Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office in partnership with the Philippine Folkdance Society (PFDS) – SAOT Capiz Chapter.

 PSABE-PPG BURIAS CHAPTER BAGS MULTIPLE NATIONAL AWARDS

by Krissha Mha E. Labaniego

PSABE-PPG Burias Chapter brings home multiple national awards, setting a new benchmark in agricultural engineering.
Photo Credits: Supreme Student Council CAPSU Burias Campus

With the theme “Sustainable Innovations in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering: Greener Future for Food-Secured Philippines,” the Philippine Society of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineers - Pre-Professional Group (PSABE-PPG) Burias Chapter from CAPSU Burias showcased significant achievements in the field of biosystems and engineering, emerging as one of the top three delegates in the recently concluded 73rd PSABE-PPG National Convention 2024, held from April 22 to 27 in Legaspi, Albay.

Together with the Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (BSABE) Program Chair, Engr. Marilyn L. Bernabe, and the PSABE-PPG Burias Chapter Adviser, Engr. Ela Mae O. Villegas, and BSABE students, including Mary Joy Cullo, Jules Vincent Bagtong, Rizza Mae Silverio, Cassandra Jane Gaspar, Hazel Ann Cayetano, and Lea Joy Necor, demonstrated extraordinary skills and performances individually and as a group that enabled them to obtain the 3rd Place spot, bagging the other nine awards as well.

Placing the participants in the spotlight who brought honors to the college, Engr. Bernabe stated that she is supportive of the endeavors of the ABE students.

In particular, Cayetano proved her mettle in the biosystems and agricultural engineering fields by winning 1st Place in the Agricultural Machinery Parts Identification Category, and together with Gaspar, they excelled in the Undergraduate Thesis Oral Presentation Category, securing 3rd and 4th Places, respectively.

“Participating in the PSABE-PPG National Convention 2024 is an exciting and challenging experience. The competitions provided a platform for us, ABE students, to showcase our skills, knowledge, and creativity in a competitive environment,” Cayetano said in an interview.

Meanwhile, Cullo stood out as the 1st Runner-Up in the Ms. PSABE-PPG National 2024 Pageant and also took home the People's Choice Award, a testament to the overwhelming love and support she received from the Facebook users during the online voting, and at the same time, Bagtong garnered the 3rd Runner-Up in the Mr. PSABE-PPG National 2024 Competition and also received additional awards, including Best in Formal Attire and Best in Advocacy and Video Presentation.

Cayetano believed that the endeavor “is a great opportunity to learn more and appreciate the importance of the Philippine Society of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineers in achieving a greener future and a food-secured environment. It's a beautiful moment to socialize, test one’s abilities, and potentially achieve recognition from our fellow Bayaws.”

Moreover, the team brought home 2nd Place in the DABEST Showdown while Engr. Villegas got elected as one of the board of trustees for the PSABE Young Engineers Section, and Cullo got elected as the PSABE-PPG National Auditor.

 TELL CLUB HOSTS ENGLISH FEST 2024: A CELEBRATION OF LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE 

by Kristine Jill F. Llegue

TELL Club, composed of students from the BSEd major in English, organizes the English Fest to highlight the immersive journey of understanding and appreciating life through literature.

    To provide an avenue for the students to engage in various activities that celebrate the power of language and its ability to connect individuals through shared experiences, the English Language and Literature (TELL) Club spearheaded the English Fest on April 24 at the Campus Gymnasium with a theme: "Experience, Explore, Engage: Making Connections through Life and Literature.”

    Due to the extremely high heat index that temporarily halted face-to-face classes, the initial part of the program was conducted via TELL Club's Facebook Page Live, where Dr. Romulo N. Lagon, Dean of the College of Education (COE), extended a warm welcome to all the attendees and emphasized the importance of literature and establishing connections with one another, noting that “we come together not only to appreciate the beauty of nature but to form connections with one another through shared experiences and discussions."

    The keynote speech of Mr. Michael John S. Escosio, an English Teacher from the Dewey Schools in Vietnam, highlighted the event. He shared his educational journey and experiences from his time as a student at the COE, where he specialized in English.

        "I can still vividly recall our literature class with Sir Gerard, where we portrayed Greek gods and goddesses all around the CAPSU Burias Campus. It was a bit embarrassing at first but also incredibly fun and a powerful reminder that literature can be brought to life, Mr. Escosios shared.

    The TELL Club held various competitions in celebration of the English Fest, including Character Impersonation, Choral Reading, Poster-Slogan, Essay Writing, Poetry Speaking, Vest in Spelling, BaTELL of the Brains, and Radio Drama.

 DANCING CLOSE TO THE PINNACLE 

by Jeanelle O. Ledesma

Student dancers from CAPSU Burias represent the Campus in the SAOT CAPIZ: CAPISNON FOLK DANCE COMPETITION 2024 as part of the CAPIZTAHAN FESTIVAL 2024.

Photo Credit: Radyo Maragtas

    The air was electric with anticipation, combined with banners of every hue that fluttered in the gentle breeze and the scent of sizzling delicacies sold on sidewalks. Roxas City's main square became a grand stage where tradition and modernity danced in harmony. For months, they rehearsed tirelessly, perfecting each step and synchronizing every movement, all for this one moment — SAOT CAPIZ: CAPISNON FOLK DANCE COMPETITION 2024.

    The vibrant rhythms of Capisnon culture came alive at the event that showcased the rich heritage and artistic prowess of local performers from the different towns of Capiz as part of the CAPIZTAHAN FESTIVAL 2024, the cultural and food festival, founding anniversary, and memorial celebration of the Province of Capiz. Among the many talented groups, one dance troupe stood out from Capiz State University (CAPSU) Burias Campus, earning the prestigious title of 1st Runner-Up under the category of “Western-Influenced Dances.”

    The event, held in front of the Capiz Provincial Capitol on April 14, was a spectacle of colors, music, and dance, drawing participants and spectators from across the region. "Saot," a local term meaning "dance," perfectly encapsulated the spirit of this competition. With its role in preserving traditional Capisnon folk dances, the competition uncovered dances that are more than just performances; they are living records of the region’s history, customs, and values. By encouraging young people to learn and perform these dances, the competition ensured that these cultural treasures were passed down to future generations.

    "Folk dance is more than just a form of exercise or entertainment – it's a way to connect with our heritage and express ourselves in a unique way," the folk dancer, who wished to remain nameless, said. 

    

    Their group, adorned in white, Maria Clara costumes that echoed the elegance and purity of their ancestors’ attire, stood at the edge of the stage, hearts pounding in unison. The team of folk dancers from CAPSU Burias, composed by Ela Mae Dalida, Rhealyn Joy Gevero, Princess Joy Isoy, Michelle Labto, Angel Llauderes, Riza Mae Lantoria, Marry Joy Lorca, Angel Lupo, Jezel Salomeo, Rowena May Quisto, Angel Vaay, and Kyla Velado, accepted the challenge to carefully choreographed display of traditional dance moves, classic costumes, and melodious music, while showcasing synchronization with precision and passion.

    The moment seemed a slowdown as they heard the name of their represented school. At last, they made the University proud, revealing a moment of immense pride.

    The team’s outstanding performance of Jota Pilareña, a traditional folk dance from Pilar, Capiz, left the audience mesmerized and the judges impressed, as evident in every step, spin, and gesture they executed during their routine. The audience enjoyed a stunning performance, and women in Maria Clara dresses, moving in perfect harmony with the beat, while looking back on their journey and reminiscing the lessons they learned along the way.

    The dancer further added that, “I think what I learned most is that even as a first-timer, you can achieve your goals with believing in yourself and your abilities."

    The team's success became testament to the dedication and hard work of their outstanding dance director, Prof. Glen Rose L. Mejia, assistant director, Prof. Angeline L. Vestidas, and costume designer, Prof. Joan Rae L. Lantoria.

    Furthermore, the team shared that Mr. Regie Dajay and Mr. Jhon Ritch Howell Delatado, supported them every step of the way and provided invaluable guidance and motivation to keep the dancers driven and focused.

    They also shared that in the end, dancing to victory spoke more than just the about the journey, the bonds formed, at the cultural pride that fueled every step. As they accepted their well-deserved recognition as the 1st Runner-Up, the CAPSU Burias Folk Dancers proved that with teamwork, dedication, and passion for their craft, even the most ambitious goals can be achieved.

    The achievement marked another milestone in the University's commitment to promoting cultural heritage. The team's success symbolically manifested the power of arts and culture in bringing people together and showcasing the beauty of Capisnon identity.

 CAPSU CELEBRATES 20TH UNIVERSITY DAY 

    As March 21 marked the 20th University Day of Capiz State University (CAPSU), the faculty, staff, and students of CAPSU Burias celebrated, with the entire CAPSU community, the two decades of delivering quality service at SM Roxas City.

    It can be recalled that Mambusao Agricultural and Technical College (MATEC) of Burias, Mambusao merged with Capiz Agricultural and Fishery School (CAFS) of Bailan, Pontevedra to become the Panay State Polytechnic Cpollege (PSPC) in 1980, and with the subsequent integration of Capiz Institute of Technology of Roxas City in 1999, and Sigma College of Science and  Technology in Sigma, Capiz in 2000, and by virtue of Republic Act No. 9273 signed on March 21, 2004, PSPC was converted into Capiz State University.

    The celebration started with the Holy Mass at CAPSU Main Campus followed by a motorcade, and it featured an opening program and CAPSU Natin 'To: a Variety Show at SM City and the Fellowship

Night at the Kapis Mansion.

    In her speech, Dr. Editha C. Alfon, CAPSU President, described their journey to have been marked

by countless achievements, milestones, and memorable moments, all of which have shaped their identity and reinforced their mission to inspire, educate, and empower generations, and moving forward, she enjoined the attendees to continue upholding Capsunian values.

    "As we now impart in the next chapter of our journey, let us continue to uphold the values that define us, integrity, excellence, inclusivity, and innovation. Together, we will build upon our legacy and create a future filled with boundless opportunities for learning, discovery and growth," Dr. Alfon stated.

 LOVE'S RADIANCE

A Heartwarming Valentine's Day Celebration 

by Charlene Dela Cruz

The female searchees anticipates in their seats in 'Searching for Love: King and Queen of Hearts' dating segment.

    As the gentle breeze of love swept through the University, hearts brimmed with joy and anticipation for the much-awaited Valentine's Day Celebration organized by the Supreme Student Council. Under the enchanting theme of 'Gugma kag Kalipay sa Paghigugma' (Love and Happiness in Love), the campus transformed into a haven of romance and connection, weaving unforgettable stories of love and togetherness.

    The day commenced with touching opening remarks by the esteemed Campus Administrator, Dr. Rodyard B. Mariclum. His words of wisdom and encouragement set the tone for a day filled with love, unity, and celebration. Dr. Archile C. Abogadie, the beloved SAS Chairperson, extended a warm welcome, embracing everyone in a cocoon of camaraderie and joy. Their presence infused the event with a sense of community and belonging, elevating the spirits of all present.

    The highlight of the day was the heartwarming 'Searching for Love: King and Queen of Hearts' dating segment, where four enchanting love pairs stole the spotlight. Their journeys to finding love mirrored fairy tales, igniting smiles and sighs of admiration among the audience. From serendipitous encounters to heartfelt confessions, each love story painted a canvas of hope and serenity, reminding everyone of the timeless beauty of love.

    Adding to the enchantment was a mesmerizing spoken poetry contest that resonated with the depths of the soul. Poets poured their emotions into verses, weaving tales of love's resilience, longing, and bliss. The audience was spellbound, transported to realms of passion and empathy through the power of words. 

    As the celebration drew to a close, hearts were filled with cherished memories of love, laughter, and togetherness. The Valentine's Day Celebration at the University truly exemplified the beauty of love and happiness in love, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who attended.

DSWD VI, CAPSU BURIAS INITIATE PARTNERSHIP FOR SUSTAINABLE LIVELIHOOD PROGRAM 

by Lovelyn Hope A. Leonor

    In a bid to foster collaboration and strengthen partnership in the delivery of a livelihood program, the Department of Social Welfare Development (DSWD) Region VI and CAPSU Burias completed a consultative meeting on Feb. 7 at the Admin Building. 

    Mr. Merlan Lanusga, the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) Partnership Officer, led the DSWD Team that visited the Campus, which included Ms. Louraine Reyes, Project Development Officer (PDO) II, Ms. Rovelyn Paulmanal, PDO II of the Municipal Social Welfare Development Office (MSWDO) Jamindan, and Ms. Johanna Mari Degoma of MSWDO Mambusao. 

    The DSWD Team sat down with Dr. Rodyard B. Madiclum, Campus Administrator, Prof. Mark L. Sibug, Extension Chairperson, and Prof. Salve M. Ferrer from the College of Management Faculty, and initiated talks concerning partnership in the implementation of sustainable livelihood program.

    DSWD through Memoradum Circular No. 22, series of 2019 defines SLP as a capability-building program for poor, vulnerable, and marginalized households and communities to help improve their socio- economic conditions through accessing and acquiring necessary assets to engage in and maintain thriving livelihoods.

    The consultative meeting served as a platform for the exchange of ideas, including the roles of each party, and the mechanisms that the collaboration may establish to address social issues and finding innovative solutions to improve the lives of individuals and communities.

CAMPUS JOURNOS COLLABORATE FOR PROJECT GROW 

by Jenelle B. Mansilla

    The comprehensive journalism training workshop dubbed as Project G.R.O.W or Growing, Reaching Out, and Writing, concluded with campus journalists from the three colleges and department of the campus equipped with knowledge and skills to be productive writers who manage time, inspire, collaborate, and grow with the community.

    Implemented on January 26 & 31, and designed to nurture the journalism skills, the project proved to be a valuable learning experience for aspiring campus journalists and advisers of Capsunian Echo, Boardtalk, ANI Publication, Heartbeats, and ABE Gazette.

    The training-workshop covered critical aspects of campus journalism, including newsgathering, writing, editing, and media ethics, through a series of interactive sessions and hands-on exercises delivered and facilitated by Dr. Christine F. Quenga, Prof. Jose Sandy C. Zaragosa, and Dr. Raymond J. Silvestre, all of whom shared their expertise to encourage participants to imbibe best practices and equip them with the knowledge and abilities to excel in the field.

    Dr. Quenga, Campus Journalism Advocate and English Language Expert who lectured about "Productivity and Time Management" emphasized that productivity is not an end in itself, but rather a means to an end, and shared that the feeling of being "out of control" with your time is the leading cause of stress, worry, and despair.

    Prof. Zaragosa, Campus Journalism Advocate and Filipino Language Expert delivered his topic called “Write to Inspire” where he discussed the power of writing, how to use good writing habits, and how to distinguish between different types of writing for publication.

    Dr. Silvestre, Capsunian Echo adviser and chair of the student publication, presented "Writing, Working, and Growing Together “ where he stressed that "every story is important", and stated that writing defines time, space, events, and experiences, and reiterated that student publication is a collaboration of committed campus journalists. 

    The project provided campus journalists an avenue where like-minded people meet, develop collaborative behavior, and exchange ideas; helped them develop a sense of community, with peers and mentors providing essential insights and inspiration, and allowed the participants to join with their groupmates to have self-managed time and space for writing, editing, and layout of their newsletters, which they produced as the project’s outputs. "Project GROW has been an exceptional opportunity for me to enhance my journalism skills and network with fellow campus journalists," one participant said.

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.