COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES: THE SEQUEL

by Lorgen N. Oseta

Batch 2023 graduates come on stage to obtain their hard-earned diplomas and medals.

Graduation is the embodiment of extensive efforts, sacrifices, persistence, and growth. It represents fulfillment of once-cherished dreams and aspirations, success, and above all, gratitude. This occasion is a time of merriment and happiness for students, their families, and loved ones, as it signifies the start of a fresh phase in their lives and the possibility of accomplishing careers and having a bountiful life.

On the 6th day of July, Capiz State University Burias Campus held its 19th Commencement Exercises, years after being celebrated in virtual space.

After long fights against silent battles and sleepless nights, the graduands have emerged as shining examples of determination, resilience, and development. They are now one step closer to their dreams and will soon be reaping the fruits of their hard work.

The 2023 Graduates confidently crossed the stage and accepted their diplomas and medals with a profound sense of accomplishment, marking the beginning of an incredible future ahead.  

From being students who were overwhelmed by courseworks, exams, and projects, particularly during final semesters - moments when they must complete important assignments and comprehensive exams; students who struggled with financial challenges, balancing academic deadlines and other commitments, like extracurricular activities and internships; and students who faced high levels of stress, anxiety, and burnout due to the pressure of excelling academically, expectations of their families, professors, and society — to survivors who just completed the arduous path towards earning those bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.

Amidst the challenges they faced, they blossomed into brilliant individuals, equipped with knowledge, wisdom, and passion for making meaningful impacts on the world. Clearly, they demonstrated resilience, determination, and a drive to succeed. As they close a chapter of their lives, one that is marked by numerous ups and downs, they deserve to be celebrated and applauded.

 RECOGNITION, MOVING UP, AND COMPLETION: PROOFS OF RESILIENCE AND TENACITY

by Erica Mae G. Cala

A junior high school student receives his certificate of completion as a completer during the joint Recognition, Moving Up, and Completion Ceremony 2023.

Not all endings are despondent; some show our greatest achievement. One of the most awaited days in the lives of the students is when they finally reaped the fruits of their hard works. After all the sacrifices and hardships they had to go through, including sleepless nights, long hours of studying, breakdowns and cries, they finally walked up to the stage, received their certificates, smiled for the camera, and saw their loved one's proud faces.

Capiz State University Burias Campus carried out the 2023 Recognition, Moving Up, and Completion Ceremony, last June 27, years after being held in the virtual space. Students looked at their best as they marched up the stage along with their parents.

Behind their brightest smile lies the bravest soul. No one can really fathom the journey that students had to go through just to survive the challenges and struggles they confronted just to complete a school year. Amidst conflicts and chaos, they continued to push through despite the fact that at times, it feels like passing through a needle’s eye. A ceremony at the end of the academic year has always been one of the best ways to exhibit the resilience and tenacity of the students. The victorious climb on stage is yet another evidence that they did it.

The same eyes that cried during draining nights were the very same eyes that gleamed with so much pride. The lips that were trembling because of so much weeping were the very same lips that were turning into a beaming smile. The person who thought couldn't make it is the very same person who was holding a certificate of recognition. That piece of paper wads the symbol of their efforts and series of battles well-fought.

In the lives of students, there's no such thing as easy. Everything has to be earned with their own capabilities. There's no shortcut nor any alternative route to get where they want to be, they have to work for it. Although the process is tough, it is where they are shaped into the people they must become.

According to Samuel Adams, we give credit where credit is due. Everything that students have worked for will always come back to them. Even the smallest, tiny detail of their effort will be paid off. This is the very reason why it is recommendable for students to continue dreaming, moving, and fighting. No matter how heavy the tasks are, they would definitely make it, only if they would not stop the voyage in achieving the yearnings of their hearts.

There are many times it will be easier to give up, to not continue because it’s so hard, and with the future seeming so blurry, but only the ones who persist will see what’s in store for them. The finest will only be obtained by the best. And the best will only go to the bravest.

A student’s life is a cycle of overcoming obstacles and enjoying the rewards. They need to be able to sail their boats at all times. Although there may be storms and large waves in the future, the key to winning is to never let it penetrate in the mind. Amidst the rough road, there will be a reward waiting in the finish line.

The journey of a student might not be the most comfortable, yet the harvest is always fulfilling. Although the trip there may be arduous, the day of recognition will show that everything happens for a purpose. No pain, no gain, as the saying goes. Success would not be feasible without all of these challenges. In order to win, one must be eager enough to utter words of yet another 'I did it - again!"

The awarding ceremonies have always been and will always be the proofs of students’ resilience towards difficult times and tenacity amidst formidable circumstances.

CAPSU BURIAS TACKLES MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS THROUGH A PROGRAM

by Charlene J. Dela Cruz

On Apr. 19, CAPSU Burias conducts Mental Health Awareness Program with Prof. Jumar Q. Apoyo, Guidance Counselor of CAPSU Sigma, serving as the resource speaker.

On April 27, Colegio dela Purisima Conception (CPC) College of Law, in collaboration with the Guidance and Counselling Office, Students Affairs and Services, Gender and Development, Medical, Dental and Disability Services, Human Resource Management, and NSTP/DRRM of CAPSU Burias, delivered Legal Advocacy Seminar and Legal Aid Activity at the Campus Gymnasium, which was attended by 1,008 people.

Atty. Mark D. Borres, Faculty In-Charge for the Legal Aid Program, introduced the supervising lawyers who elaborated the different topics included during the talk show type of discussion and along with them were the CPC law students.

Atty. Kristine Mae Del Rosario tackled the Republic Act No. 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act of 2004 and according to her, "Types of violence, include physical violence, sexual violence, psychological violence and verbal violence. Anyone who experiences situation involving violence may file a Protection Order issued for the purpose of preventing further acts of violence against a woman or her child."

Moreover, Atty. Winona Vee L. Ocaso talked about the Republic Act No. 11313, also known as Safe Spaces Law (Bawal Bastos Law).

"Sexual harassment can happen in public places, online, and even in the workplace. Three out of five women have experienced at least one form of sexual harassment in their lifetime and this could be in the form of catcalling, wolf-whistling, or uninvited comments on a person's appearance. RA 7877 or the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act also protects victims under this crime," Atty. Ocaso emphasized.

Atty. Mark Anthony Ledesma, on the other hand, spoke about RA 9995 or the Anti-Photo or Video Voyeurism Act of 2009, where he mentioned that it is an act of defining and penalizing the crime of photo and video voyeurism, prescribing penalties therefore and for other purposes; and that this law makes it a crime to take photos of a naked person without his/her consent.

"This act aims to protect children enrolled in kindergarten, elementary, and secondary schools and learning centers from being bullied and this requires schools to adopt policies to address the existence of bullying in their respective institutions," Atty. Lendy C. Mariano stated referring to her discussion concerning the Republic Act No. 10627 or the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013.

To wrap up the discussion, Atty. Borres pinned that we have a gift called life in which comes with freedom that we should enjoy, but with limitations.

Afterwards, free notarization and legal counseling commenced, and also, documents that require notarization as well as questions regarding problems with birth certificates, land titles, or any legal matters or related problems that need advice from lawyers were entertained and addressed.

 CAPSU BURIAS RECEIVES 

FREE LEGAL ASSISTANCE

by Erica Mae G. Cala

CAPSU Burias students partake in the Legal Advocacy Seminar and Legal Aid Activity of CPC.

On April 27, Colegio dela Purisima Conception (CPC) College of Law, in collaboration with the Guidance and Counselling Office, Students Affairs and Services, Gender and Development, Medical, Dental and Disability Services, Human Resource Management, and NSTP/DRRM of CAPSU Burias, delivered Legal Advocacy Seminar and Legal Aid Activity at the Campus Gymnasium, which was attended by 1,008 people.

Atty. Mark D. Borres, Faculty In-Charge for the Legal Aid Program, introduced the supervising lawyers who elaborated the different topics included during the talk show type of discussion and along with them were the CPC law students.

Atty. Kristine Mae Del Rosario tackled the Republic Act No. 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act of 2004 and according to her, "Types of violence, include physical violence, sexual violence, psychological violence and verbal violence. Anyone who experiences situation involving violence may file a Protection Order issued for the purpose of preventing further acts of violence against a woman or her child."

Moreover, Atty. Winona Vee L. Ocaso talked about the Republic Act No. 11313, also known as Safe Spaces Law (Bawal Bastos Law).

"Sexual harassment can happen in public places, online, and even in the workplace. Three out of five women have experienced at least one form of sexual harassment in their lifetime and this could be in the form of catcalling, wolf-whistling, or uninvited comments on a person's appearance. RA 7877 or the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act also protects victims under this crime," Atty. Ocaso emphasized.

Atty. Mark Anthony Ledesma, on the other hand, spoke about RA 9995 or the Anti-Photo or Video Voyeurism Act of 2009, where he mentioned that it is an act of defining and penalizing the crime of photo and video voyeurism, prescribing penalties therefore and for other purposes; and that this law makes it a crime to take photos of a naked person without his/her consent.

"This act aims to protect children enrolled in kindergarten, elementary, and secondary schools and learning centers from being bullied and this requires schools to adopt policies to address the existence of bullying in their respective institutions," Atty. Lendy C. Mariano stated referring to her discussion concerning the Republic Act No. 10627 or the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013.

To wrap up the discussion, Atty. Borres pinned that we have a gift called life in which comes with freedom that we should enjoy, but with limitations.

Afterwards, free notarization and legal counseling commenced, and also, documents that require notarization as well as questions regarding problems with birth certificates, land titles, or any legal matters or related problems that need advice from lawyers were entertained and addressed.

 COLLEGE OF AGRICUTURE AND FORESTRY GETS CRACKING

by Elijah Villaflor

The opening of the CAFiestahan 2023 kicks off through a parade of the different teams, faculty, and staff from the different campuses, including CAPSU Burias, CAPSU Dumarao, and CAPSU Tapaz. Photo credit: Society of Agriculture Students – CAPSU Burias Facebook page

After over three years, the College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF) of Capiz State University Burias Campus unfolded its face-to-face CAF Week Celebration on Mar. 8-10 termed as the “CAFiestahan 2023” and the college made sure that it would be extra special this year.

With the theme “Leveraging Partnerships and Youth Engagement towards Agriculture 4.0”, CAFiestahan aimed to get the younger people more interested in the course of Agriculture by showcasing its importance, perks, and benefits to the people in attendance. 

It featured various speakers, including Department of Agriculture Senior Project Development Officer, Engr. Anne Glynn Frias-Lisbo; and our very own Campus Administrator, Dr. Rodyard B. Madiclum.

It was also an opportunity for a few brands to showcase and sell their products, like the Bayer and Kargado, among others. 

        Moreover, the goal of the festival isn’t stuck in academic knowledge and content as it is also geared towards entertainment and that’s exactly what the students did – have fun and enjoy during the three-day-long celebration.  “CAFiestahan 2023 aims to help the students develop their social skills and unity, showcase and enhance their skills and talents, not just in agriculture, but in other aspects as well, gain knowledge, develop sportsmanship and camaraderie, and create unforgettable memories and new experiences for students, faculty, and staff,” Katherine V. Bardinas, Society of Agriculture Students (SAS) Secretary, said.

Games ranging from the conventional football game between the alumni and the students, tug-of-war, and sack races to more exotic, “agri-centric” games, like the coconut dehusking, coconut grating, and corn shelling.

            The cultural contests including vocal and dance competitions, and the Search for Mr., Miss, and Mess CAFiestahan 2023, engaged the Agriculture students of CAPSU Burias, CAPSU Dumarao, and CAPSU Tapaz in a bit of friendly competition and other festivities. 

Students likewise showcased brilliance and expertise through different academic competitions. 

Finally, the week wrapped up with a disco party that lasted well into the night. 

         “CAFiestahan 2023 is a week of celebration to give students time to enjoy themselves and be stress-free from academic workloads. At the same time, in order to enhance their skills and develop characteristics and traits an Agriculture student should possess,” Bardinas attested.

COLLEGE OF MANAGEMENT UNDERSCORES COMMUNICATION MANAGEMENT IN 2023 MANAGEMENT WEEK

by Charlene J. Dela Cruz and Lorgen N. Oseta

On Mar. 27, the CM Week Celebration opens and during the first day, the Quiz Bowl Competition takes place.

Photo credit: The Heartbeat-College Publication of the College of Management Facebook page

Considering that communication is the foundation of any successful organization and that in today's digital age, effective communication management has become crucial for businesses to thrive, the faculty and staff of the College of Management (CM), in collaboration with student organizations, including FMC, CPAS, JAMMS, and MSO, organized the CM Week Celebration with the theme "Communication Management: Building Goodwill for Organizational Stability." 

The celebration started on Mar. 22 through a pre-pageant activity at SM City Roxas that showcased the talent and grace of the contestants vying for the title of Mr. & Ms. Management 2023, and followed by a week-long full of events and activities which highlighted the significance of communication management, spanning from Mar. 27 to Mar. 31. 

          "Communication is a key to building a successful business. This event is an excellent opportunity for us to exchange ideas and learn from each other, helping us all to build stronger and more successful businesses,” Mr. Third Domingo, founder of IdeasXMachina Advertising, Inc, said during his talk about digital marketing strategies.

Furthermore, the week-long celebration included a variety of activities that catered to the interests of students, faculty, and staff, such as sports and cultural activities, Search for Mr. and Ms. Management 2023, DENIM Night: Disco for a Cause, and discussions made by several speakers.

 Engr. Joel B. Garcera, a training specialist and project focal, emphasized the need for effective communication management in today's organizations while Mr. Third Domingo, the founder of IdeasXMachina Advertising, Inc, spoke about digital marketing strategies.

            Mr. Erol O. Dela Cruz, the founder of Brandally and co-owner of LEADsourcing, discussed the fortifying digital marketing, and Mr. Jeffrey Carpio, Capiz Innovation Hub Officer, presented the overview, objectives, and services of UMWAD Western Visayas.

Ma’am Karenz Odchigue, one of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas staff, accentuated the need for businesses to be vigilant, recognizing the growing concern of online financial fraud, and Agent John H. Katipunan from the National Bureau of Investigation, Roxas City District Office, discussed the role of the Cybercrime Law in safeguarding businesses from cybercrime. 

"The College of Management Week Celebration became a testament to the importance of communication management in today's business landscape and therefore provided a platform for businesses to come together and learn about the latest strategies and trends in communication management," one participant expressed during an interview.

 PEDAGOGY THROUGH COMPETITIVE RIVALRY

by Rona Joy L. Labto

On the second day, the COE Got Talent showcase the talents of COE students in between the Search for Mr. and Ms. COE 2023 portions.

Emerging from the two-year hiatus of face-to-face learning and other affairs, the College of Education (COE) of Capiz State University (CAPSU) Burias Campus celebrated its Education Week 2023 with the theme "Empowering COEmazing Learners through Inclusive Education".

Joyful screams and laughter echoed in the Campus Gymnasium for three days, accompanied by the beats and vibrations of the drums, as well as the bright, rattling sound of xylophones throughout the parade and the opening program.

Ecstatic and delighted, the three-day occasion that spanned from Mar. 15 until Mar. 17 empowered the dynamic and brilliant Education students from 1^st year to 4^th year, dubbed as the Green Tree Pythons, Yellow Ravens, Red Vipers and the Blue Phoenixes, respectively.

The event started off with a parade, followed by the formal opening of the Education Fair, plenary session led by Dr. Gerard Lee L. Atienza who talked about gender sensitivity, and the search for COE Bahaghari Superstar, which included the street dance, and comedy skit competitions. Mr. Ohmel Villasis garnered the first-ever COE Bahaghari Superstar title and expressed commitment to promote equality and inclusive education.

The second day opened another plenary session by Dr. Rogelio C. Flores who talked about the ways to be amazing. 

Exciting academic contests, such as quiz bee, tour guiding, and powerpoint presentation were likewise carried out, showcasing the diverse talents of the COE students. 

The search for Mr. and Ms. COE, on the other hand, gave Mr. Gemar de Pedro and Ms. Shiela Mae Baranda their titles as this year's Mr. and Ms. Education, respectively.

            The COE Got Talent also brought new talents to the spotlight as they amazed the audience with various presentations that added colors to the celebration.

The celebration’s third day opened with the plenary session, featuring a talk by Prof. Irene Sequito, which highlighted the coping mechanisms in an ever changing world.

 Palaro ng Bayan, induction of classroom officers, and the awarding ceremony happened during the afternoon of Mar. 17.

             As the event closes, one participant shared that: “Another set of memories has been created. This will be a reminder to each Education student that despite the adversaries in our lives as students, we still have the right to enjoy and experience the best of life.”
 

 FOUR CAPSUNIANS ATTEND NATIONAL SUMMIT AND CONVENTION

by Catherine V. Adaniel

On Mar. 2-4, two student-leaders from Capiz State University Burias Campus in the persons of Angelica Ann C. Ramos and Jewwelly Hansel Joy B. Degoma, Supreme Student Council (SSC) President and Vice President, respectively, partook in the 5^th National Youth Environmental Summit held at Teacher’s Camp, Baguio City, while Favie Gelyn V. Bardinas, Future Leaders of the Philippines (FLP) President, and Kierlo O. Tencio, FLP Vice President, participated in the 42^nd Annual National Convention of Campus Advisers and 26^th Annual National Convention of Student Leaders on Mar. 8-11, which similarly took place at the aforementioned venue. 

Together with their advisers, Prof. Ne-an E. Loro (SSC) and Prof. Joan Rae L. Lantoria (FLP), the student-leaders engaged in talks, discussions, and activities concerning the roles of youth in climate action in order to create sustainable, peaceful, and resilient communities, as well as the essentials of leadership that drives innovation, resilience, and dynamic change. 

“The four-day National Youth Environmental Summit targets to spread awareness and encourage students from all over the Philippines to participate in the global movement for environmental protection and sustainability amidst the climate and ecological issues and challenges transpiring in our contemporary times,” Ramos pointed out. 

        The national summit and convention welcomed delegates from different public and private colleges/universities in the Philippines, with the aim of augmenting green ambassadors in the country and youths who can lead through borderless communities.

           On the other hand, “the convention provided chances for the development of the skills, talents, and potential of campus advisers, student leaders, and the youth sector for us to become effective and efficient agents of global transformation,” Tencio, who attended the National Convention of Student Leaders, shared. 

 FIVE CAPSU BURIAS STUDENTS COMPLETE UAD SHORT COURSE PROGRAM

by Erica Mae G. Cala

        On Feb. 9-23, five students from Capiz State University (CAPSU) Burias Campus went through a 14-day short course program provided by the Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD) or Ahmad Dahlan University, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. 

     Lyca A. Lariosa from the Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (BSABE), Cheryl Jane D. Candelario from the College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF), Kierlo O. Tencio from the College of Education (COE), as well as Deserae S. Hospital and Rona Jane C. Verde from the College of Management (CM) completed the said program via Zoom application and Moodle-based learning management system.

         “I learned new things and I gathered a lot of information regarding Indonesian law as I took part in the international program with partner university, Universitas Ahmad Dhalan (UAD),” Tencio said.

        The course immersed the participants about the Indonesian Legal System and its policies and required them to make presentations during the closing ceremony.

Furthermore, Tencio garnered the “Best Presenter” award. 

 GIFTS OF COMPASSION, AFFECTION, AND PROVISION

by Catherine V. Adaniel

       “Wherever there are people giving gifts, exchanging cards, I believe that Christmas is truly in their hearts.” 

        These popular song lyrics written by Jose Mari Chan reverberate all over the Philippine streets and households, along with glowing and blazing lights, vibrant parols, and ingenious Christmas decorations joined by unusual embellishments, when the festive season is all around the corner. Solely, hearing the word “Christmas” is enough for the human stimuli to exhilarate their nerves and let out the sense of thrill and enthusiasm. 

        To one side, the festival of celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ does not only pirouettes around the joy of caroling, parties, special Christmas dinner, as well as in extravagant and picturesque Christmas sites and attractions. Beyond these are the smiles and glee of individuals who gave and received love through giving – the greatest gift of life and the secret of living. 

     With this essence, dwelling in their minds, pure souls, and genuine human nature, Capiz State University Burias Campus, through the initiative of the Supreme Student Council, NSTP/DRRM Office, Research Extension Office, Future Leaders of the Philippines Burias Chapter, Rumbuhan Teen Center, and of the Student Affairs and Services, arranged a donation drive. Dubbed as “CAPSU Cares”, the endeavor aimed to alleviate the plights of the victims of the Tropical Storm Paeng, which wrecked the town of Mambusao in October. 

      Two days prior to the actual day, Christmas came early as the organizers served as the Santa Clauses who brought gifts to the people targeted by the natural calamity. In return, they witnessed the smiles worth a thousand words and the incessant ‘thank you’ to the contributors who made the season bursts with delight. 

     Scrumptious foods above the table and the mouthwatering aromas of bibingka and puto bumbong outside the church, bustling roads and recreational spots, and heaven-like carols echoing everywhere are just usual scenes of the yuletide. Unseen are the moments of great compassion, affection, and provision.