Cebu Normal University (CNU) commended 556 College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) academic awardees and 9 non-academic awardees today, May 31, 2023, at the Samuel MacClintock (SM) Hall.
The Latin honorees, along with their proud parents, created a ring of proud clamor as they marched to claim the fruits of their labor within their four years of stay at the university.
The theme, “Creating the Desired Future Today: Graduates as Prime Movers of Sustainable Development” served as the guiding light for CAS Dean Dr. Milagros Greif’s opening remarks.
“You have the power to transform industries, communities, and mindsets as you build the future we all aspire to see,” she emphasized.
Greif urged the graduates to be the prime movers of sustainable development as they go beyond the university’s walls.
Meanwhile, the personification of Normalite excellence Summa Cum Laude Lyngil T. Olivar (Bachelor of Arts in Communication major in Film Media IV) expressed her pride towards her batch during her response speech.
“You cannot tell an empty stomach to wait for the diploma. But no matter what your circumstances are, I’m proud of you, guys!” she said.
Non-academic awardees were also recognized and awarded for their exemplary performance and service during their time as Normalites. §
To commemorate the 75th Anniversary of the United States (US) and the Philippines (PH) exchanges, Cebu Normal University (CNU) hosted the U.S.-PH Exchanges Roadshow at the Tandang Sora Hall yesterday, May 19, 2023.
The External Affairs and International Linkages (EAIL) headed by Director Dr. Naila Beltran and the CNU – Tourism Society (TourS), in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines and the U.S. Department of State, spearheaded the event to witness the promotion and strengthening of the U.S. Government exchange programs and opportunities.
In her opening speech, Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Gwendelina Villarante described the beauty of the U.S.-PH relationship and the exchanges that brought possibilities for both countries.
“We will witness the exchange of ideas, the blending of culture, and the forging of life-long connections as participants engage in academic programs, professional internship[s], cultural exchanges, and entrepreneurial ventures. They will not only enrich their own lives but contribute to the development and progress of both our nations,” she said.
Moreover, the Deputy Cultural Attaché of the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines Pauline Anderson proudly pointed out the 350 exchanges happening every year and highlighted the US’ high investment in the Philippines’ education.
“We are schooled that there are three pillars of our relationship…I go to bed and I think three pillars…those are friends, partners, and allies,” Anderson added.
In an interview with Ang Suga, Math Circle Mayor Hon. Niño Rey L. Armas expressed his joy in joining the event and shared that it was “beneficial” on his part.
U.S. experiences
Public Engagement Specialist of the U.S. Embassy of the Philippines Helen Vallejos directed the discussion on the plethora of programs and exchange opportunities and underlined the specifications of each program, such as the age requirement and application process.
Vallejos accentuated the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) as the U.S. Government’s most featured program in liaison and leadership training in Southeast Asia and the Fulbright program that offers scholarships.
“Don’t be intimidated by the idea of trying to apply, don’t be afraid of rejections. The first step is for you to just start applying [and] unless you start doing that, you won’t really get a hang of how to do your applications,” Vallejos reminded.
Meanwhile, YSEALI Professional Fellowship Alumna Atty. Aliko Garganera; Fulbright CHED Alumnus Arch. Neil Andrew Menjares; and Fulbright CHED Alumnus Mr. Adrian Perez Del Monte graced the event as speakers in the panel discussions and narrated their struggles in applying and their life abroad.
“Be truthful sa imohang narrative…for example, these are your goals in life, make sure na they are truthful and pwede siya mabuhat ba, dili nga you are aiming for the biggest stars. Maybe start from simple na mga pangandoy nga achievable,” Del Monte said.
Meanwhile, YSEALI Alumni and Tourism Faculty Member Ms. Clareziel D. Ladringan conveyed how important the event was for students to experience the opportunity to live abroad fully funded by the government.
“I can say that no amount of heartbreak can equate to the gains you will gain once you join the fellowship. I can say it’s a life-changing experience for me to be able to go to these programs,” she shared. §
Cebu Normal University’s (CNU) fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Biology major in Zoology representatives bagged 1st place in the 8th Central Visayas Health Research and Innovation Conference (CVHRIC) on May 10–12, 2023, at the Siquijor State College (SSC).
Organized by the Central Visayas Consortium for Health Research and Development (CVCHRD) with the theme “The Roles of Academe, Industry, and Government in the Attainment of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals,” the event was attended by esteemed scientists, professionals, and students.
It featured research activities such as infographics, infomercials, poster presentations, and the oral presentation of research.
The winning experimental study entitled, “Cinnamomum cebuense L. Phytochemicals as Targeted Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: In Silico and In Vitro Evaluation” was led by Normalites Beatrice Rae Datiles, Happy Marie Abad, Vanessa Ompong, Gianne Abay, and Daryl Bace.
In an interview with Ang Suga, Datiles shared that their research focused on using the extract of an endemic plant species, the Cebu Cinnamon, to evaluate its potential as an anticancer agent, particularly against hepatocellular carcinoma.
The study used computer-aided methods with an experimental assay to evaluate whether the compounds found in this plant have anticancer properties and toxicity.
Despite the challenges and lack of prior training in silico methods, the team overcame these obstacles through the guidance and support of their advisers, Dr. Jay Picardal and Mr. Seagal Asjali, MSc., RChem.
“Participating in this big research event was overwhelming, yet exciting and fulfilling. It has opened doors for us to continue our research endeavors and contribute to the scientific community locally, nationally, and globally. This is just a stepping stone towards our personal and academic growth,” Datiles said.
Meanwhile, Research Institute of Tropical Biology and Pharmacological Biotechnology (RITBPB) Director and thesis adviser Dr. Jay Picardal, MS, Ph.D. believed that their research students stand out due to their strong theoretical understanding of the research problem.
He emphasized the importance of having a working knowledge of literature, experimental design, research protocols, and data analysis tools and being ready for open forum discussions.
Assistance for research initiatives
Picardal also shared that he plans to continue supporting research endeavors by providing technical assistance related to biological experimentations.
“However, given the lack of manpower in the office, the response to queries and clarifications is dependent on my available time. For this academic year, I already provided help to some medical students, biology majors, and science education majors who intend to conduct life science experiments,” he added.
Picardal encouraged thesis advisers to make students appreciate the scientific method, provide the needed theoretical understanding of the topic, assist them in hypothesis generation and testing, reach out, and employ independent learning approaches.
“As mentors, our major role is to assist and provide guidance, and we must extend the extra mile to be more understanding, patient, and considerate,” he said.
Words by Alea Marie Bareng
Photos grabbed from Jay Picardal and CNU-Biological Society
College of Arts and Sciences faculty members get ready with their Internationalization Project Proposals.From left to right: Dr. Bustamante (Chair, International Relations), Dr. Greif (College Dean), Ms. Cachapero (Resource Speaker), Engr. Camus (Resource Speaker), Dr. Ferrer (Resource Speaker), Dr. Moratilla (Resource Speaker), Ms. Beltran (Director, Office of the External Affairs and International Linkages), Dr. Aharul (Chair, International Relations)
In the name of crimson and gold, various Departments and Research Institutes under College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) of Cebu Normal University held a three-day training and workshop called Internationalization Cascading and Training-Workshop held at Summit Galleria Hotel on April 12-14, 2023.
Dr.Milagros Greif, the College Dean, shared a message to the participants.
Bearing the theme “Building Academic Mobility and International Partnership Opportunities,” the goal of the said event was to bolster the university’s high-caliber education and services through solid collaboration and strategic planning for internationalization (IZN), such as proposing projects that will globalize students, increase cultural competence and diversity, broaden the research horizon of the university, and strengthen its institutional capacity.
“Understanding our purpose for internationalization, learning from our own practices and benchmarking from other institutions in this ever-changing higher education landscape, give us the motivation and determination to carry on what we have started. This might be challenging but doable,” said Dr. Angeline M. Pogoy, Vice President for Research, Extension and Publication.
Over the years, Cebu Normal University has been receiving awards and accolades with its national feats. Its ambitious aim now is to position itself outside the national borders, map out its direction toward international partners, and expand its linkages while fortifying its relationship with its existing partners.
“If our dreams are not lofty, they will remain a to-do list…our dream now is to aim higher,” said Dr. Michelle Mae J. Olvido, Presidential Assistant for Planning and Development Office.
In her speech, Dr. Olvido also emphasized the need for adapting strategic and sustainable ways of internationalizing the university while upholding social sensitivity and excellence. She also tackled how internationalization as a direction would change the university in different levels.
During the breakout sessions of the event, the three representatives from each department were given more than an hour to plan and craft their project proposal which would be presented on the last day. An open forum was also conducted to ask questions, offer suggestions, and share experiences.
Participants crafting their internationalization project proposals during the breakout sessions.
CNU in the threshold of the global doors
Dr. Daisy Palompon, former OIC-President, emphasized the CNU internationalization initiatives.
Cebu Normal University, being a leading multidisciplinary research university, was recently rated an overall three stars by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), a global leading provider of services, analytics, and insights to higher education institutions in the world. The international badge it acquired is one of the significant leaps in strengthening its international profile, not to mention that QS gave a 5-star rating for its inclusivity while 4 stars for academic development, employability, and social responsibility.
On the other hand, CNU has already started putting its foot on the threshold of the global doors when it accepted and warmly welcomed a few international students to study in its undergraduate programs. Since internationalization is still uncharted waters, the university needs to be innovative and flexible, and must abide with the international policies without disregarding the essentiality of having its faculty members and stakeholders united in crafting and realizing globalized programs.
“You need to be united, you need to stand on the same ground, you need to be on the same boat,” said Engr. Rosette Eira Camus, one of the three guest speakers during the event and is the Director of International Career and Exchange Programs of Mapua University.
In her talk entitled “Internationalization Partnership Models and Framework,” Engr. Camus clearly sketched out a blueprint on how CNU can achieve internationalization successfully. Given its limited resources yet, she said that the university must build sustainable projects and assess its operational and financial fit to work with an international partner.
Atty. Lily Freida Milla, the Director of the Commission on Higher Education International Affairs Services (CHED-IAS), graced the event via Zoom with her inputs on what the CHED envisions the Philippine Higher Education Institutions to be in relation to building academic partnerships for quality education.
A few of the fundamental strategies CNU can adopt in expanding its reach are to build niche or flagship programs, acquire visiting professors, and join international conferences to increase the university’s input and output. Since the teaching models and methodologies play a key role in internationalizing an academic institution, CNU must also be fully abreast with technology as it will equip students with global experience, international skills, and intercultural competence without leaving the campus.
Internationalization Projects
To increase the university’s global presence, CNU launched a program called Cross-Cultural Communication Virtual Exchange (CCCVEX), striking a vibrant partnership with Douglas College in New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada. The said program, which will start on August–December 2023, offers Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL), which is a competent platform for faculty members to facilitate students and enrich their intercultural competence through the use of technology.
Prof. Andrew Osborne of Douglas College Canada presented via Zoom the Collaborative Online Interactive Learning (COIL) Project in collaboration with the CNU Department of Languages and Literature.
On the other hand, the Department of Languages and Literature is also proudly launching the English Intensive Training Program, which offers seven courses, with writing and speaking being the focus. The said program will aid international non-English-speaking students who are enrolled in the university to learn and improve their English communication skills. To further bolster competencies, the said department also has an international academic exchange program called Global Learners of English Education Exchange Program or GLEE ExPro to be offered at the undergraduate level for one semester, targeting international students coming from partner institutions.
Moreover, during the said training-workshop all the Departments—which are the Departments of Communication, Mathematics, Tourism, English, Biology, Social Sciences, Public Governance, Chemistry and Physics, Filipino, Psychology, the three Research Institutes: Computational Mathematics and Physics; Public Governance; Tropical Biology and Pharmacological Biotechnology, and the Gender and Development Unit–successfully presented and justified their internationalization project proposals specific to their departmental needs and capacity, such as student and faculty exchange, and internship abroad.
Internationalization (IZN) Project Ways Forward
The internationalization project proposals of the different departments and institutes of the College of Arts and Sciences will undergo the next phase of evaluation which is the in-house review. With the next phase of evaluations and deliberations, it is targeted that the implementations of the projects commence the soonest as possible. The Office of the External Affairs and International Linkages through Director Naila Beltran, together with Dr. Milagros M. Greif the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences will take the lead in realizing the ways forward of the internationalization project proposals.
Contact Office: Dir. Naila Y. Beltran External Affairs and International Linkages Office international.linkages@cnu.edu.ph
Among the 229 universities nationwide, Cebu Normal University (CNU) ranked 43rd among the top 100 best universities in the Philippines based on the recent EduRank 2023 rankings.
CNU also landed 4th among the 10 universities in Cebu, 2,814th out of 5,830 universities in Asia, and 7,259th out of 14,131 universities worldwide.
Further, CNU got 23rd place out of 26 based on its research performance in Liberal Arts and Social Science.
Dr. Daisy Palompon, Director of the Center for Research and Development, shared in an interview with Ang Suga that the achievement is a great honor for crimson and gold.
“It’s an affirmation of the excellent performance of our university through the research accomplishments of our faculty members for the past years,” she said.
Palompon further stated that EduRank increased CNU’s visibility both inside and outside the university, implying that the previous years’ efforts in research and research-related activities have already garnered recognition.
“This is actually an honor and an accomplishment of the entire university, including our students who are part of the university for the past years until now, and also our faculty and staff who worked together for the improvement of our research culture in the university,” she expressed.
The participating Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) were evaluated in three areas, such as research performance (45%), non-academic prominence (45%), and alumna score (10%).
As indicated on EduRank’s website, “the rankings are determined by analyzing 373k citations received by 30.4k academic publications made by 229 universities around the Philippines, the popularity of 889 recognized alumni, and the largest reference database available.”
Founded in 2022, EduRank is an independent metric-based ranking of 14,131 universities from 183 countries. §
For three years in a row, the truth-telling voices of students from Cebu Normal University’s Department of Communication and Media Studies remain unbothered after sealing various acknowledgements in the recent edition of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Radio Festival 2023.
Eyeing to denounce information-trickery affecting communities, this year’s theme is “MANIOBRA: Unveiling the Illusion Behind Public Deception” which is lionized across Philippine regions.
Composed of three categories: 5-minute Radio News Production, Radio Podcasting, and Radio-Jingle Making, it is designed to harness the student’s potency in observing equilibrium when it comes to truth-bias. Relatively, it caters to both the secondary and collegiate divisions.
Announced as the most-participated year, 223 entries were recorded overall, but only a few were able to rise amidst the heat of the competition.
As the only qualifier from Central Visayas, the representatives from CNU under the banner of CNU – Junior Broadcasters’ Alliance’s Sibya Production persisted in bearing honor to the institution.
“Radyo Tatak Totoo” was hailed as the 2nd Best News Production, earning a three-peat victory of the department in the said category. It was anchored by Mary Ann Rose Malaya and Carl John Griño along with Hoehnferdz Gonzaga, Krystal Joy Pepito, Khim Raices Khan Rusiana, Yeza Karyl Mayol, and Charwen Mayor.
The team’s script writer, Mayor, expressed the secret behind achieving the winning streak of the production in the said category for consecutive years.
“I believe the team still won because we are composed of individuals who do well in our respective roles…most of us have proven so much in this field, everyone was still receptive to constructive criticism.”
Radyo Tatak Totoo also bagged minor recognitions, with Malaya being awarded as the Best Female Anchor, Gonzaga as the Best Male News Presenter, and Mayor as Best Editor.
Moreover, Sibya Production’s “Aling, Mari, Chong!” performed by graduating communicators Lourenze Pareja, Armandave Ochia, John Mark Getes, and Kristian Jacob Logarta placed 5th in the Radio-Jingle Making category, conquering more than 40 entries from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
Pareja, one of the composers, revealed what he felt after winning a national competition.
“The thought that we made it to the final cut, it’s just a dream come true, for first-timers like us…[We are] beyond thankful to the Great Author of our talents, and that is God.”
The student musicians also received the DZMC – Young Communicators Guild Choice award from the PUP.
Meanwhile, the department’s entry for the Radio Podcasting competition, entitled “T’yak, Comm-i Yan!” comprised of the fairly-caliber communicators Denielle Anne Abatayo, Angelica Lumongsud, Angelie Silabay, Louie Jay Vildosola, and Kent Grant Ylanan were called one of the qualifiers—an indication of the production’s fruitful finish.
Dr. Joseph Elvir C. Tubilan, also the CNU-DCMS Chairman, upheld his service as the representative’s ever-dynamic mentor.
Based on the upshot, CNU – Junior Broadcasters’ Alliance, a student-run organization that provides avenues to practice free press, continues to prove its might in the field of broadcasting and leadership both inside and outside the university’s gates.
These recognitions are a testimony that the potential and ability of the communication students transcend various disciplines in bringing meaningful contributions to the university as a transformed Normalite. / Hoehnferdz Z. Gonzaga and Bryan G. Fernandez II, BA Communication Broadcast Journalism
In celebration of World Water Day, Normalite Jason Banono (Bachelor of Arts in Communication – Integrated Marketing Communication and Press Relations II) won the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Office (RO) 7’s regional on-the-spot painting contest last March 20, 2023.
Different Cebu-based colleges and universities participated in the contest which centered on the theme, “Accelerating Change to Solve the Water and Sanitation Crisis.”
In an interview with Ang Suga, Banono shared that representing Cebu Normal University (CNU) was a “healthy pressure” that pushed him to do his best and aim for victory.
“I feel proud representing the name of the university because not everyone can have that opportunity. It is an honor to do so,” he said.
Banono furthered that he was hesitant to accept the offer because the contest proper fell on the day of the midterm examinations.
However, he embraced the challenge and was able to paint a masterpiece in line with the theme within almost four hours.
“My artwork emphasizes that clean water should be accessible by everyone, from highly urban cities to the most far-flung areas that need them equally,” stated Banono.
He added that the water and sanitation crisis is an issue that cannot be fixed temporarily by bandage solutions.
“It sends a message that while we are obliged to help conserve water and not leave a negative impact on the environment, we can only do so much in bringing out real impactful change. A collaborative work between authorities and citizens is a must,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, DILG-7’s Engr. John Arnold Reluya and Josh Almonte from the University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF) bagged second and third place, respectively.
World Water Day is held annually every March 22 to advocate for the sustainable management of freshwater resources and tackle the global water crisis in support of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: water and sanitation for all by 2030. §
Cebu Normal University (CNU) moves forward with its vision as it was officially acclaimed as a Three (3) Stars Institution by the Quacquarelli Symond (QS) Stars Rating System on March 13, 2023.
The leading multidisciplinary research university of education’s three (3) out of five (5) stars rating means that CNU is a “well-recognized [institution] nationally and may have also begun to attract international recognition.”
They utilize three (3) criteria which consist of several categories when rating universities fairly: (1) the core criteria categories focus on the components of a university; (2) the advanced criteria categories look at a university with a solid foundation; and (3) specialist criteria categories look intently at an institution’s areas of specialization.
In an interview with Ang Suga, the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Board and University Secretary Dr. Laurence L. Garcia shared that the institution only achieved that overall rating due to a one-star rating in the internalization category in the core criteria.
He added that the university is not yet prepared to host international students because of inadequate space and the restrictions of the Philippine government.
“…Strict man god kaayo ang Philippine government to that…Bisan pa ang atong curriculum kay nindot na ug kanang prepared which is ato ng strength kanang academic development. Pero ang atoang…environment is not [yet] supporting international students kay gamay kaayo tag space,” Garcia explained.
Meanwhile, Ms. Naila Y. Beltran, Director for External Affairs & International Linkages (EAIL), expressed that the other universities in the Philippines that were also evaluated by the QS only received a three-star rating due to this issue in internalization.
“In the Philippines, nobody was able to get four stars because of that one [which is] internalization,” she said.
However, CNU excelled in the inclusiveness category part of the advanced criteria and has shown great remarks in the academic development and teaching category in the core criteria.
The assessment was made possible through the Fostering World Class Philippine Universities Project Grant for PHP 2.5 million under the support of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
QS Stars is a British company that is one of the “world’s leading providers of services, analytics, and insight to the global higher education institutions (HEIs).”
Recognition overseas
In a phone interview with Ang Suga, Dr. Filomena T. Dayagbil, OIC of the Office of the University President, shared that even before she became the university president, it was already part of her agenda to create a competitive advantage by getting recognition abroad.
The QS three-star rating is one of the educational institution’s successes in being recognized internationally, opening up opportunities to attract international students and expose Filipino students globally.
To cope with the weakness in internalization scope, Dayagbil shared that they have already applied for distance learning and are now at the CHED for consideration.
“Nagpaabot ta [sa CHED] sa ilahang mga suggestions to comply with all the [requirements]…Naa na tay curriculum…naa na tay module,” she said.
Furthermore, the university will track its progress using the QS World University Rankings. The institution will reapply if a second evaluation is required to obtain the five-star rating.
Dayagbil emphasized that they planned to apply for another assessment and quality assurance system known as Times Higher Education (THE).
“For the next three years, e-monitor nato ang tanan nga mga parameters sa QS, and then we will really reapply…At the same time, mo-expand gyod ta into Times Higher Education which is actually giving us proof that we can be very good in areas of research and quality instruction,” she explained. §
After the showcase of Literature and English major’s abilities and talents, the Cebu Normal University (CNU) – English Fellows (EF) Organization ended the English Studies and Other Languages (ESOL) Month 2023 today, February 21, 2023, at Samuel MacClintock (SM) Hall.
The students gathered to their respective assemblages namely Assemblage Book, Assemblage Quill, Assemblage Owl, and Assemblage Lotus.
EF Organization Mayor Hon. Ela Lois Tuhoy emphasized that even when the program ends, they will continue to serve the ‘EFersons’ with pride and sincerity.
“As our celebration comes to a close, do expect that we will only go uphill from here on and out…because that is what the English Fellow deserves,” she said.
Afterward, the stage lightened up as the Assemblages Book and Quill showcased their speech choir with the piece “The Resiliency of a Filipino” by William Bacani.
In an interview with Ang Suga, Georgie A. Saga (Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English III), one of the members who championed the speech choir, expressed her thoughts and feelings while preparing for the contest.
“Every naa mi break, wala ray one week among preparation ato, kay magtapok gyod mi dayon [ug] mag-brainstorm. [Amoang technique] kay gi-chop-chop-chop ang mga lines para dali ra masag-o…and actually overwhelmed kaayo ko kay first ever ESOL na [gi-held] face-to-face and nadaog [mi],” she shared.
Furthermore, the anticipated 15-minute audio dramas performed yesterday by Assemblages Lotus and Quill and a special guest from the 3rd Year Block D students of Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English were presented.
Cheers filled the hall as the winners of the various competitions held for the two-day event were announced.
The morning session concluded with the closing remarks of Hon. Noel Quijano, followed by the photo opportunity of faculty, organization officers, and Assemblage members. §
The winners of the contest are as follows:
Overall Winner
Champion – Assemblage Quill
1st Runner Up – Assemblage Owl
2nd Runner Up – Assemblage Book
3rd Runner Up – Assemblage Lotus
Spelling Bee
1st Place – Charles Vincent P. Manubag (Guest) and Beatrice Rae Datiles (Guest)
2nd Place – Phebe Soronio (Assemblage Owl) and Charlotte A. Pagwagan (Assemblage Book)
3rd Place – Piolo Lester J. Berame (Assemblage Book) and Divine Grace O. Cordeta (Assemblage Book)
Declamation
1st Place – Hyra Faith Enclunar (Assemblage Lotus)
2nd Place – Krestine M. Velos (Assemblage Book)
3rd Place – Rheisa J. Camiguel (Assemblage Quill)
Spoken Word (English Category)
1st Place – Junezze Marie Mangubat (Assemblage Owl)
2nd Place – Eduardo Compra III (Assemblage Quill)
3rd Place – Maileen Fei Blanco (Assemblage Lotus)
Spoken Word (Filipino Category)
1st Place – Jee Cañete (Assemblage Quill)
2nd Place – Weyden Veloria (Assemblage Book)
3rd Place – Lyndel Mae Gingoyon (Assemblage Lotus)
Spoken Word (Cebuano Category)
1st Place – Dexter Berganio (Assemblage Quill)
2nd Place – Leizel Kate Tejana Mandiadi (Assemblage Owl)
Amidst several delays, Cebu Normal University’s (CNU) 4th year Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (BS Chemistry) and 3rd Year Bachelor of Science in Physics (BS Physics) students finally gleamed in brilliant whites in their first-ever Laboratory Coat Donning and Pinning Ceremony today, February 8, 2023, at Tandang Sora Hall.
With the theme, “Click and Entanglement: Honoring Commitment to Ethics and Professionalism as Future Scientists of the 21st Century,” the event reminded the 12 BS Chemistry and four BS Physics student interns to uphold ethical responsibility and moral conduct as they enter the professional field.
College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Dean Dr. Milagros M. Greif congratulated the students for being “very dedicated in [to] completing school requirements” despite their experiences at the peak of the pandemic in her opening speech.
Meanwhile, the first keynote speaker and Physics Department Faculty Mr. Allan Roy B. Elnar, MPhys emphasized in his talk that the students have the power to shape the world.
He furthered that from creating drugs and uncovering the mysteries of the universe, they are expected to create a more sustainable future.
“Embrace challenge and curiosity so you can drive science forward,” he encouraged.
Miss Luzviminda R. Bato, RCh, the second keynote speaker and Chemistry Department faculty, shared the history and symbolic significance of the lab gown.
She stressed that the color white’s practicality catches up with the fast-paced progress of the scientific field and should be worn with pride and honor as they start their journey as new scientists of the 21st century.
The ceremony climaxed with the lab coat donning and pinning of the modest roster of 16 students, which was facilitated by Mr. Seagal P. Asjali, RCh, MSc, Miss Erced E. Urbano, RCh, MChem, and Mr. Allan Roy B. Elnar, MPhys.
During the testimonial sharing portion of the ceremony, Kevin J. Bongabong (BS Physics III) reminisced how his freshman year class had gone from having numerous students in a block to only having four.
He thereby expressed his wish that the remaining should persevere and wish for nothing but the best.
Meanwhile, Ervin Claide O. Estelloso (BS Chemistry IV) stated that “We have different reasons explaining why we chose Chemistry, what makes us the same is that we are destined to be here.”
Fresh from receiving their pins and lab gowns, the student interns then took their oaths and pledge. §
Words by Jamaica Ola-a and CarlosLeopoldo Cabeza III
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