CNU’s 2023 Nursing Grads Nail 100% Pass Rate with 6 Topnotchers

Cebu Normal University’s Nursing graduates from the class of 2023 have reached another milestone, having a 100% passing rate in the Philippine Nurse Licensure Examination.

This remarkable achievement is matched by the remarkable distinction of producing six topnotchers in the board exams, with Christel Jirah Dajao Codilla ranking sixth, Katrina Marie Sumicad Arbon and Rhainne Baring Pejante ranking eighth, Alyssa Joyce Pelotenia Sandueta and Patrice Danielle Lim ranking ninth, and Julia Elloise Cassandra Cabonada Borbajo ranking tenth.

Cebu Normal University has long been known for its commitment to academic achievement and continuous support for students seeking instruction and expertise in the field of nursing. This latest achievement demonstrates the university’s dedication to establishing a culture of academic excellence and holistic growth among its students.

It is no small effort to achieve a 100 percent passing record and produce topnotchers in the Philippine Nurse Licensure Examination (PNLE). It is the result of years of hard work, tenacity, and unshakable dedication on the part of both students and faculty members who guided and supported them throughout their academic careers. CNU College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences got a 100 percent passing percentage in the PNLE for the past 12 years, from 2010 to 2020 and 2022-2023, with senior high school graduates.

The graduates’ success in the board exams indicates not only the students’ academic competencies, but also the quality of Cebu Normal University’s nursing curriculum. The program’s extensive curriculum, hands-on training, cutting-edge facilities, and faculty comprised of industry experts all played important roles in developing these graduates into competent and highly qualified individuals eager to make a significant influence in the field of healthcare.

The Nursing graduates of Batch 2023 are an inspiration not only to future nursing students, but also to the academic community. It emphasizes the significance of endurance, devotion, and the pursuit of excellence in reaching extraordinary milestones.

As these alumni start on their professional travels, they bring with them not just the information and skills provided by their alma mater, but also the values of compassion, integrity, and a commitment to providing quality in healthcare to their communities.

CNU Empowers Change through Violence Against Women Campaign

In a powerful and poignant morning right after the flag ceremony, Cebu Normal University (CNU) took a stand against the pervasive issue of violence against women. Spearheaded by Dr. Marino A. Garcia, the Gender and Development Director, the Violence Against Women Campaign (VAW-C) kicked off on November 28, 2023, at 8:00 AM. Dr. Garcia set the tone for the day with a stirring welcome message, rallying the community to join hands in eradicating the scourge of violence that plagues women.

“Let us stand together, unwavering in our commitment to end violence against women. In our collective strength, we find hope and determination to build a future where love triumphs over fear, and every woman and child can live free from the shackles of violence,” declared Dr. Garcia, setting the stage for a day dedicated to advocacy and empowerment.

Dr. Diane Lawrence Ramos from the Medellin campus emerged as the champion, showcasing exceptional dedication to the cause. The first runner-up position was secured by Rongie Abella from the College of Teacher Education department, while Nelson Sombilon from the Administration Non-Teaching Staff claimed the second runner-up title.

The competition was a platform for contestants from diverse backgrounds, including the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Nursing, Integrated Laboratory School, Balamban Campus, and the Students’ Sector, to voice their commitment to being advocates for change. Each participant delivered a compelling speech outlining their strategies and goals to contribute to the VAW-C Free initiative.

This event marks the commencement of an 18-day campaign against violence towards women. On November 30, 2023, participants will engage in activities such as short film presentations, group poster displays, and singing competitions. The same dedicated contestants will showcase their talents and creativity in these events, contributing to the multifaceted approach of the campaign.

CNU shines at ASEAN Commemorative Contest 2023

Cebu Normal University (CNU) demonstrated its artistic prowess during the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Regional Office (RO) 7’s Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Commemorative Contest 2023, aired via Zoom and Facebook live last November 24.

Themed “ASEAN Matters: Epicenter of Growth,” the 56th Founding Anniversary of ASEAN and the month-long celebration culminated with a Regional Awarding and Closing Ceremony.

Higher education institutions (HEIs) from the region competed in the Song Writing, Spoken Word Poetry, On-the-Spot Digital Poster Making, and Video Production Exhibition.
 
In the Spoken Word Poetry category, CNU’s Dr. Janet Mananay, Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd) and Diploma in Professional Education (DPE) Chair, clinched first place with the piece ‘ASEAN: Diamonds in the Southeast.’
 
The winning piece, co-authored by fourth-year BSEd major in English students Jia Palange and Alexandria Montemar, with technical video direction by Fe Obial and Chevy Jairi, and subsequent editing by Mark Costanilla, drew inspiration from their numerous drafts of poems.
 
Moreover, Palange told Ang Suga how they reviewed the ASEAN history, objectives, and adversities that made it develop into a central organization.
 
“Just like how diamonds are discovered and formed, that is how ASEAN made it to be, that is ASEAN right now – [a] diamond,” she furthered.
 
Meanwhile, BSEd English II duo Franckeinstein Alolor and co-writer Karylle Laborte secured third place in the same category with their piece ‘ASEAN Symphony: Nurturing Growth, Celebrating Diversity.’
 
Laborte disclosed that she adapted her style to convey camaraderie incorporated into symbolisms, while Alolor synchronized the music with the piece’s mood.
 
Harmony in achievement
 
The CNU Chorale bagged second place in the Song Writing Competition with their piece “In the Heart of Asia: A Song of Unity.”
 
The production was guided by CNU Chorale Coach Mrs. Darlane Yap and led by members and songwriters Sean Andrex Martinez (Bachelor of Arts in Literature III), Kirsten Jed Therese Orbeta (Bachelor of Arts in English Language III), and Anjaylou Monisit (BSEd English II).
 
The lineup of performers featured Rozenda Mariae Leonil Festejo (Bachelor of Culture and Arts Education [BCAEd] II), Shiela Mae Delos Arcos (Bachelor of Physical Education III), and Martinez, along with other CNU-Chorale members, while Joel Japheth Guion (BCAEd IV) served as the musical composer, arranger, and director.
 
In an interview with Ang Suga, Orbeta explained that the creation of the song was a testament to the team’s dedication to diversity and collaboration.
 
“It not only stood as a proud representation of the CNU Chorale but also showcased the resilience and creativity inherent in the university’s artistic endeavors,” she emphasized.
 
Despite limited resources, Orbeta admitted that they meticulously prepared for the contest and delved into extensive lyric exploration and consultations with their coach and musical director to ensure adherence to guidelines.
 
Subsequently, their song also featured special participation from Joe Sean Tamayo (BCAEd IV) and Nerl Nathanielle Cutara (BCAEd IV).
The winners from the different HEIs in the region received a plaque of recognition, certificates, and cash prizes. §
 
The following are the set of awards and awardees:
𝐒𝐏𝐎𝐊𝐄𝐍 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃 𝐏𝐎𝐄𝐓𝐑𝐘
1st place – CNU
2nd place – Holy Name University
3rd place – CNU
People’s Choice Award – Cebu Technological University (CTU)
𝐒𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐖𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆
1st place – CTU
2nd place – CNU
3rd place – Buenavista Community College
People’s Choice Award – CTU
𝐎𝐍-𝐓𝐇𝐄-𝐒𝐏𝐎𝐓 𝐃𝐈𝐆𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐏𝐎𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐌𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆
1st place – St. Cecilia’s College – Cebu, Inc.
2nd place – Information & Communications Technology Academy, Inc
3rd place – Buenavista Community College
People’s Choice Award – Cordova Public College
𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐎 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐃𝐔𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐄𝐗𝐇𝐈𝐁𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍
1st place – Holy Name University
2nd place – University of Cebu (UC) – Main Campus
Words and Screenshots by Alea Marie Bareng

Cebu Normal University Expands Horizons: CNU-Catmon Campus Negotiations Underway

In a groundbreaking move poised to revolutionize educational access in Catmon, Cebu, negotiations between Dr. Ariaso, representing Cebu Normal University (CNU), and Mayor Avis Monleon of Catmon have commenced for the establishment of a CNU campus in the municipality. The initiation of formal negotiations marks a significant milestone after Dr. Ariaso received authority from the Board of Regents (BOR) to engage in talks regarding this important venture.

The negotiation process commenced last Saturday November 18, 2023, symbolizing a momentous step forward. Catmon Mayor Avis Monleon, accompanied by Vice Mayor Armil Poro, Councilor Atty. Rowel Juban, and Executive Assistant Dr. Joel Molit, visited Dr. Ariaso at the CNU Main Campus. Their expressed interest in establishing a CNU campus in Catmon, Cebu laid the groundwork for substantive discussions. During this meeting, Dr. Ariaso was joined by Vice President for the Administration – Dr. Joseph Elvir C. Tubilan and Legal Unit Head & OIC Dean of the College of Law, Public Governance, and Safety – Atty. Lury Ed Marie V. Yray, collectively striving to finalize the signing of the deed of donation for the prospective lot.

The impending signing of the deed of donation heralds an era of collaboration between CNU and the Catmon Local Government Unit (LGU). This crucial document, once signed, will pave the way for a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between CNU and the Catmon LGU. The official signing is anticipated to take place during Dr. Ariaso’s investiture ceremony.

The establishment of a CNU campus in Catmon holds immense promise for both the educational landscape and the local community. It signifies a commitment to extending quality education beyond urban centers, catering to aspiring students in Catmon and its neighboring areas. This initiative aligns with CNU’s vision of fostering academic excellence and contributing to the holistic development of communities.

The collaboration between CNU and the Catmon LGU underscores a shared dedication to education, recognizing its pivotal role in empowering individuals and driving progress. The envisioned campus aims to not only impart knowledge but also to serve as a catalyst for socio-economic growth within the municipality.

As negotiations progress and the groundwork is laid for the CNU Catmon Campus, anticipation and enthusiasm abound, echoing the collective commitment to making quality education accessible to all. This collaboration stands as a testament to the power of partnerships in shaping a brighter future for generations to come.

The journey towards establishing the Cebu Normal University – Catmon Campus exemplifies a concerted effort towards educational inclusivity, serving as an inspiring model for fostering academic expansion and community development across regions.

Strengthening Civic Responsibility: Cebu Normal University and 7th Regional Community Defense Group Forge ROTC Partnership

In a significant move towards fostering civic duty and national defense, the 7th Regional Community Defense Group (7th RCDG), Army Reserve Command, and Cebu Normal University have inked a historic Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). The signing ceremony was organized by Mr. Romualdo Generalao, Coordinator, NSTP – Military Training Service/ROTC, held last November 20, 2023 at the IKC Hall in the presence of Dr. Daniel A. Ariaso Sr., the esteemed president of Cebu Normal University together with the other administrative officials and deans, marked a pivotal moment for both institutions.

It was represented by the Army Reserve Command was Col. Edgar G. Mangabay. The agreement serves as the cornerstone for the establishment and operation of the ROTC program within the university, aiming to instill discipline, leadership, and patriotism among its students.

The ROTC program’s activation within Cebu Normal University represents an avenue for students to develop essential skills, such as teamwork, resilience, and a strong sense of responsibility. Under the guidance and mentorship of the 7th RCDG, the university’s ROTC Unit will provide a platform for students to engage in practical training, leadership development, and community service.

This collaboration not only underscores the dedication of Cebu Normal University to holistic education but also highlights the invaluable role played by the military in shaping future leaders with a deep-rooted commitment to nation-building.

As the partnership between the 7th RCDG and Cebu Normal University takes flight, it heralds a promising future where empowered and responsible individuals will contribute actively to the progress and security of the nation.

CNU participates in the 36th AUAP Annual Conference

Cebu Normal University (CNU), represented by Dr. Rufina Rosaroso — Vice President for Academic Affairs and Internationalization — and Dr. Genara B. Pacaña — Director of the Center for Internationalization, ODL, and CELL, joined the 36th AUAP Annual Conference in Siam University, Bangkok, Thailand, last 17-18 November 2023.

The primary purpose of the Association of Universities of Asia and the Pacific (AUAP) is to be the main platform for interaction and collaboration among members and the voice of universities and colleges in Asia and the Pacific. The AUAP promotes a culture of quality and innovation in higher education, research and services to the community, and to protect and strengthen the cultural variety and values of Asia and the Pacific in order to foster greater communication and collaboration for the advancement of socioeconomic growth and world peace.

AUAP organizes regular conferences and workshops for higher education leaders and institutions, and this year the annual conference held the theme, “Utilizing Institutional Assets to Enhance Global Outreach,” and focused on unique university programs or projects that exemplify how universities address the emerging needs of the various publics they serve.

The opening ceremony was led with the welcome remarks by Prof. Dr. Annop Swarup, Secretary General of the AUAP, Dr. Pornchai Mongkhonvanit, President of the Siam University, as well as Dr. Md. Sabur Khan, the President of the AUAP. This was followed by a series of sessions by an incredible lineup of keynote speakers. Each of these sessions delved into unique subject matters, which includes on entrepreneurship, digitization, 21st century mindset, SDGs and sustainable society, community outreach, self-exploration, distance education, as well as internationalization. The conference also featured paper presentations on health care, nutrition, environment, and software solutions.

This was a unique platform for interaction and collaboration between members which is in line with CNU’s commitment as a member institution of the AUAP.

CNU students immerse in Indonesian art & culture through the Virtual CommTECH
Nusantara 2023

Cebu Normal University participated in the Virtual Community and Technological (CommTECH) Nusantara 2023: Let’s Dance Together which was held virtually last 16-27 October 2023. Let’s Dance Together was the latest edition of the CommTECH, hosted by CNU’s Indonesian partner, the Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS). This edition focuses more on Indonesian art and culture related activities such as traditional music and dance.

The short program was participated by different universities from Indonesia, China, Colombia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Cebu Normal University was represented by the following students: Krestine Velos from the College of Teacher Education; Geraldine Caangay from the College of Law, Public Governance and Safety; Jeriah Cantalejo from College of Nursing; Sheena Montero from Balamban Campus; and Norlyn Dela Cruz from Medellin Campus. These students were endorsed by the College IZN Focal Persons.

The participants had a celebratory opening ceremony and were also taken on a virtual campus tour. Dr. Maria Anityasari, Director of ITS Global Engagement, thanked the participating universities in her speech on behalf of ITS.

Over the next ten sessions, the participants immersed in different Indonesian editions of art and culture: Bali Edition, Sumatra Edition, Batik Class, Indonesia Aerobic, Kalimantan Edition, Sulawesi Edition, Maluku & Papua Edition, and Maumere Dance.

The project announcement was made on the ninth day in which the participants were challenged to design a poster for a traditional Indonesian dance. In addition, they were given a choice to also submit a dance video presentation.

Let’s Dance Together had a colorful and festive closing ceremony with the virtual exhibition of posters and dance videos. The College of Nursing’s Jeriah Cantalejo was awarded among the best with her Legong Dance poster. She also placed 7th in the leaderboards in the final quiz. CNU upholds its commitment to internationalization by empowering students to participate in international events such as this, which likewise help develop their intercultural competencies.

CNU conducts orientation and roadmap development for ESD and GCED

Cebu Normal University (CNU) — spearheaded by the Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Office — successfully conducted a three-day workshop entitled “Training and Developing Futures Thinking Research: Brainstorming CNU Writing Proposal Writeshop on ESD and GCEd.” This workshop is also supported by the Planning, Foresight, and Futures Thinking Unit and was participated by administrative officials, Department and College Chairs, and non-teaching staff representatives.

The workshop began last November 13 with ESD Fundamentals, Framework, and Implementation. This was facilitated by the Interim President of the Cagayan de Oro College — Dr. Jestoni Babia. During the workshop, Dr. Babia recalled on how CNU was given the opportunity to integrate ESD into existence in the country. He also introduced different ESD frameworks — including the Asia-Pacific ESD Teacher Competency Framework which he co-created with Dr. Ethel Abao, the former CNU CTE Dean — as well as different analyses on ESD. The facilitator encouraged the participants to determine the root problems and causes of poor quality education through the Problem Tree Analysis. Most of the participants agreed on different leadership priorities as well as poor strategic planning to be such issues. Furthermore, Dr. Babia emphasized the importance of institutionalizing ESD and recognizing CNU’s ESD stakeholders. At the end of the workshop, the participants described their ideals for ESD in CNU — to be a “High Impact Institution,” an “Internationally-recognized ESD and GCEd Center,” and to be an “ESD and GCEd Global Hub or Great Technology Hub.”

The second part of the workshop was conducted on the next day with the Introduction to GCEd and GCEd in the Philippine Context. Philippine Normal University professor and GCED Cooperation Centre (GCC) Philippines Deputy Director — Prof. Carl Dellomos — facilitated the workshop. Prof. Dellomos focused on orienting the participants about the importance of integrating GCEd into the educational framework and how its effective implementation must extend, not only to faculty and students, but to administrative offices and the non-teaching staff. The participants were tasked to conduct a GCEd SWOT analysis and the facilitator gave out pointers on how their respective offices can contribute to the GCEd integration in CNU. Dr. Janet Mananay, GCEd Region 7 focal person reiterated that these will be the spring board for GCED initiatives in the university.

Additionally on the 2nd day, Dr. Rebecca Rosario Bercasio — Director of the Bicol University’s Center for Teaching Excellence — inspired the participants by sharing Bicol University’s best practices in GCEd implementation. She joined virtually via Zoom and discussed about their Regional Training on GCED in Bicol — which aims to transform teachers and transform communities — as well as their Project MENTOR (Motivate, Engage, Nurture, Team-up, Organize, and Reflect). One of the highlights from her presentation includes Bicol University’s pursuit for GCEd during the pandemic. Dr. Bercasio also shared Bicol University’s lessons and ways forward with the GCEd agenda.

Through these engagements, the participants were able to present their GCEd SWOT analyses as well as take on a logic frame for possible GCEd activities on the third and final day on November 15.  

Each workshop had an open forum where the participants were given the opportunity to ask questions and engage with the facilitators. To end, the closing remarks were given by Dr. Jeson Bustamante, Director of the Planning, Foresight, and Futures Thinking Unit.

With the theme, “Empowering Tomorrow’s Global Citizens and Sustainability Leaders,” this two-part workshop becomes an avenue to map out existing Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and Global Citizenship Education (GCEd) practices of the university and aspires to ignite a collective commitment to fostering global citizens and sustainability leaders who will, in turn, guide CNU toward a more sustainable, just, and interconnected future.

As remarked by Prof. Rhoniel Ryan Ymbong, “As a student of Science, I believe in one ecological idea: The Gaia Hypothesis. It states that everything is interconnected with everything else, that the world is a super organism. When one part is nonfunctional, then the entire biosphere will face the consequences. So, let us take part and do the little ripples we can create for us to move forward.”

 

CNU welcomes distinguished professor from Indonesia

Professor Achmad Arifin, affiliated with the Biomedical Engineering Department at the Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) of Indonesia, visited Cebu Normal University (CNU) last 06-07 November 2023 to meet with various offices to create a meaningful working partnership.

The collaboration between CNU and ITS began through the University Mobility in Asia and the Pacific (UMAP) Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) Course Development Program where Prof. Arifin partnered with Dr. Janet Mananay, the CTE IZN Focal Person. This launched the “Assistive Technology to Improve Learning Performance of Students with Language and Communication Disabilities,” which will also be led by Dr. Venus Cortes, Program Chair for BSNEd.

Prof. Arifin’s visit was an auspicious occasion to discuss and explore ways forward with our academic cooperation with ITS. He was received by Dr. Mananay and Dr. Cortes and was introduced to Dr. Genara Pacaña, the Director of the Center for Internationalization, ODL, and CELL. The professor also sat down with the University President and the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Internationalization for a series of exploratory meetings and partnership deliberations.

During his visit, Prof. Arifin was toured in the SPED Center, which will play a significant role in this partnership. The COIL Project with ITS is focused in the understanding and assessment of assistive technology to help the learning process of students with language and communication disabilities. The BSNEd students in CNU will be learning together with the Biomedical Engineering students in ITS. A coordination meeting together with Prof. Arifin, Dr. Cortes, Ms. Marites Serenado and Ms. Fanny Mae Mobida was conducted at the CTE Dean’s Office.

Prof. Arifin’s second day in CNU started with a lecture session at the ACAS Building with Mr. Rhoniel Ryan Ymbong’s Biotechnology class. During this interaction, he gave a discussion on biomedical engineering and assistive technology with Third Year BS Biology students. In here, there was an exchange of ideas regarding science, technology, and engineering. The professor also showed video clips of the innovative projects done in ITS. He remarked about the enthusiasm and curiosity of the students after the class.

The professor also stood as a special guest during the “Training Workshop on the Development and Validation of Needs Assessment Instrument for Community Extension Projects” hosted by the Extension Services Office at the Summit Galleria Cebu, where he met the Vice President for Research, Publication, Innovation, Commercialization, and Extension and the Dean of the College of Teacher Education. Prof. Arifin also sat down with other faculty members from different colleges who were keen for exploratory discussions for ITS collaborations.

Finally, in the spirit of Filipino hospitality, Prof. Arifin was taken on a tour around the historical landmarks in Cebu City.

A strong dedication to strategic internationalization is demonstrated by the recent cooperative efforts between the Center for Internationalization, ODL, and CELL and our international partners. The openness of the academic units, which allows the University to forge meaningful links across international borders, further supports this commitment.

News Update: CHEDRO VII SUC TWG for CNU’s LUDIP holds a conference at CNU-Medellin

The CHEDRO VII Technical Working Group (TWG) for State Universities and Colleges’ (SUCs) Land Use Development and Infrastructure Plan (LUDIP) visited the Cebu Normal University-Medellin Campus and held a conference on Friday afternoon, October 27, 2023, at the CNU-M’s Foreign Language room.

The LUDIP is based on Republic Act No. 11396, which mandates compliance with land use plans and practices in state universities and colleges (SUCs) to ensure coordination across geographical boundaries. The conference is about onsite monitoring and validation on campus and CNU’s LUDIP was successfully presented by Dr. Jeson Bustamante, OIC Director for Planning, Foresight and Futures Thinking.

The TWG composed of Ms. Zarah Leigh Ranile-DBM, Engr. Gerry V. Araneta-Philippine Institute of Environmental Planners (PIEP), Dr. Sotera C. Cagang- CHEDRO VII, Ms. Jacqueline Pono- Te, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and Dr. Leonardo R. Tanael, Jr.-CHEDRO VII organized a post-validation conference after the ocular validation process to provide necessary feedback regarding the validation’s results. Moreover, the office will send an official report to the institution on the TWG findings days after the visit.

Meanwhile, the conference was attended by Dr. Grace N. Malaga, the Campus Director of CNU-Medellin, Archt. Jodl-Job Dabon, Planning Officer III, Engr. Cairns Ragasajo, Engineer II and Mr. Louwell Ponpon, CNU-Medellin’s LUDIP Representative.

Text by Norlyn S. Dela Cruz | BANWAG
Photos by Dr. Grace N. Malaga | CNU-Medellin, Campus Director

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