Birth of new tradition: Psychology Dept holds first-ever pinning ceremony

Fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Psychology (BS Psychology) students basked in the spectacle of a milestone as they became the pioneering batch of Cebu Normal University’s (CNU) 1st Psychology Pinning Ceremony held yesterday afternoon at Samuel MacClintock (SM) Hall.
 
With the theme “Psychology Forward: Resiliency and Passion in Light of Dynamic Transition in the Global Healthcare Crisis”, the event is a kick-off celebration before the participating students are deployed as interns.
 
The Pinning Ceremony started with the hues of white parading the red carpet in the Processional of senior Psychology students.
 
In his welcome address, Mr. Jose Rey M. Ocat, faculty of the Psychology Department, stressed that the event should be a remarkable memory because they managed to reach the ceremony despite the severe effect of the pandemic.
 
The first keynote speaker, Mr. John Villanueva, described his experiences as a former addict who became a pastor at the House of Hope, one of the oldest rehabilitation facilities in the South, in his discussion on “Clinical Psychology in the Workplace”.
 
“Rehabilitation centers are only existing because of one problem – addiction,” Villanueva emphasized.
 
The second keynote address was delivered by Mr. Semhre C. Quijano, a CNU alumnus, and a certified lean sigma yellow belt. He talked about the different problems that fall within the spectrum of industrial psychology, including in this time of the new normal: the sinking state of employee engagement and sense of belongingness at work.
 
During the open forum session, a student voiced concern regarding the Human Resources (HR) department. Quijano addressed the issue and emphasized that future HR practitioners should have the skills to implement “strong leadership program training where the people know how to choose a good leader.”
 
Pinning proper, CAS outlook
 
Accompanied by their proud families, the pinning proper transpired as the senior students individually walked up on stage to accept the symbol of their transition from being students to interns. This portion of the program was then succeeded by the Students’ Pledge led by Mel Torrence Senerpida (BS Psychology IV), I-Mind Psychology Society mayor.
 
Senerpida shared with Ang Suga that the first Pinning ceremony’s conceptualization started as early as June and was inspired by the conduct of other departments’ pinning ceremonies and face-to-face graduations.
 
“All we hope is that this first in the department becomes a tradition in the years ahead,” he added.
 
Meanwhile, when asked about how it felt to participate in the first pinning ceremony, Razsha Laurana Nakila (BS Psychology IV) shared that it was an honor for her to be a part of what would become a momentous chapter in the history of CNU Psychology and glad that the school acknowledged her degree program through this event.
 
Sealing the ceremony, Mr. Genesis Dejan, Department Chair, left an insightful message to the senior students that can be easily recalled through the acronym CAS; C for practicing competence, A for being adaptive, and S for service.
 
“I want to also challenge you guys to be with the tasks that you have in a more competent way […] We need to be adaptive with the different possible changes, possible conditions wherever we may be in the industry […] This profession wouldn’t actually be alive, wouldn’t be born without service,” Dejan said.
 
He went on to say that as aspiring mental health professionals, they must always be pouring service; doing and giving their extra mile in serving others because that is what the program is all about. §
 
Words by Rena Mae Avila and Jamaica Ola-a
Photos by Nicole Marie Dumayac

CHED RO 7 celebrates ASEAN founding, CNU bags awards

In line with the 55th Founding Anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Regional Office (RO) VII initiated a series of competitions joined by participants from higher education sectors in Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor.
 
With the theme “Unity Amidst Diversity as One Academic Community”, the month-long festivities wrapped up with a Regional Awarding and Culminating Ceremonies held last September 21, 2022, via Zoom and Facebook Live.
 
Officer-in-Charge of the Deputy Executive Director Office IV and Director of the International Affairs Staff (IAS) Atty. Lily Freida C. Macabangun-Milla, CESO IV graced the activity as the resource speaker.
 
“I would like to extend my gratitude in appreciation for all the efforts of CHED RO VII that they have poured into the events… I am confident that CHED RO VII will do great work of bringing ASEAN closer to more and more stakeholders and provide venues to foster fruitful partnerships among our higher educational institutions,” Milla said.
 
Per the video contest’s theme “Best Practices of Flexible Learning in the New Normal”, the fourth entry jointly created by Normalite faculty and staff Dr. Rivika C. Alda, Dr. Kim Francis R. Rodriguez, Dr. Vincent Theodore M. Balo, and Mr. John Laurence B. Villafor secured the second place and the popularity award for the most number of Facebook reactions.
 
Meanwhile, the second entry prepared by Mr. Alvin G. Cuñado came in third place.
 
Made on the day of the competition, Cebu Normal University’s (CNU) Zebedea Kyla C. Sabinay (Bachelor of Science in Biology major in Environmental Biology IV) secured the third spot for the On-The-Spot Digital Poster Making Contest.
 
“I only had a short time to prepare for the contest… The piece I made clearly illustrates that these 10 countries gather together around the globe, implying development, camaraderie, and good relationship with each other,” shared Sabinay. §
 
Words by Reina Aureo and Jonaren Eran
Screenshots by Jonaren Eran

CNU triumphs in ASEAN Energy Youth Awards

Excelsior!
 
Student researchers from Cebu Normal University (CNU) bagged the championship in the 3rd Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Energy Youth Awards 2022 at the ASEAN Energy Business Forum (AEBF) held in Cambodia on September 15 via Zoom and YouTube Live.
 
The virtual awarding ceremony was anchored on the theme “Accelerating Energy Transition: Sustainable Growth and Energy Security” where fourth-year Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd) major in Science students secured the top spot in the College Level Video Category.
 
Normalites Christine O. Panilag, Andrea Paula A. Malawi, Mark Ian Joseph A. Redelosa, Bianca A. Ricablanca, and Melmar B. Usman along with their adviser, Dr. Jennifer De Paño, took pride in their research entitled, “Measuring Science Education Students’ Carbon Footprint in an Online Learning Modality”.
 
Their research explored the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of science education students learning online by measuring their carbon footprint in two aspects: usage of online class essentials and online learning lifestyle.
 
To help mitigate the impacts of climate change, the researchers suggested a new possible online learning lifestyle that can reduce the carbon footprint of the students.
 
“We haven’t really thought about winning; we have only thought about the memories, the experiences, and the thought that at least we’ve tried our very best. But God has proven to us that we’re not only the best to receive the bacon, but someone who’s all worth it,” Redelosa stated in a Facebook post.
 
He further shared that the challenging journey was fulfilling as the group was able to submit a quality stop motion video incorporating their research.
 
The group received a monetary prize and certificates of participation and recognition for their win.
 
The ASEAN Energy Awards (AEA) is Southeast Asia’s highest recognition for energy excellence. It aims to promote awareness of best practices in energy efficiency and encourages private companies to develop cleaner energy resources and sustainable use of technology. §
 
Listed below are the other AEA awardees from the Philippines:
ASEAN Energy Efficiency and Conservation Best Practices Awards
● Green Building Category (Small and Medium) Winner – The Mind Museum of Ayala Property
● Energy Management for Building Category (Large Building) Winner – UP Ayala Land TechnoHub of Ayala Property
3rd ASEAN Energy Youth Awards High School Level
● Video Category Winner – Nabuslot National High School
● Video Category 2nd Runner Up – University of Batangas
● Poster Infographic Category Winner – University of Batangas
● Poster Infographic Category 1st Runner Up – University of the Immaculate Conception
● Poster Infographic Category 2nd Runner Up – Luis Palad Integrated High School
● Essay Category 2nd Runner Up – De La Salle University Integrated School
3rd ASEAN Energy Youth Awards College Level
● Video Category 1st Runner Up – University of San Jose-Recoletos
● Poster Infographic Category 1st Runner Up – Batangas State University Alangilan Campus
● Poster Infographic Category 2nd Runner Up – University of the Philippines
● Essay Category Winner – Cebu Technological University Camarines Norte State College
● Essay Category 1st Runner Up – Cebu Technological University
 
Words by Andrea Ellaine Galorport
Screenshots by Jonalyn Infante

CNU showcases Visayas vignettes at SUC Fair 2022

The Cebu Normal University (CNU) staff, faculty, and administrative officials showcased the rich Cebuano culture during the Visayas Vignettes cultural show on June 29 at the SUC (State Universities and Colleges) Fair 2022 held in SM Mall of Asia Entertainment Hall.

The SUC Fair 2022 was held to celebrate the 28th anniversary of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and its 2nd National Higher Education Day and ran from June 28 to July 1, 2022.

Themed Promoting Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Culture & Arts for National Development and Global Competitiveness, the Fair aimed to: 1) commemorate the anniversary of CHED and the National Higher Education Day and recognize its stakeholders’ contribution to the development of higher education in the Philippines; 2) highlight the roles of SUCs as prime movers of research and development, as the source of innovation, and as partners for national development, and 3) showcase the products and talents of SUCs across the country.

SUCs from the different regions of the Philippines highlighted their innovations and products in the innovation exhibits and product bazaar.

The nightly shows showcased the vibrant cultures of the three island groups of the country.

The Visayan Vignettes was the second of the three cultural shows boasting the rich culture of the Visayas.

The CNU delegation to the Fair represented the Region 7 SUCs and proudly featured the rich Cebuano arts and culture.

Ms. Naila Beltran, the artistic director of the presentation divided the entire performance into three themes: 1) The Faith, 2) The Art, and 3) The Beauty.

Recognizing Cebu as the country’s birthplace of Christianity, The Faith was manifested through the festive beat of the Sinulog by the CNU Dance Ensemble and the song Wala’y Sukod ang Pagmahal by Mr. Karl Patrick Casas as homage to the Sto. Niño and St. Pedro Calungsod respectively.

Exhibiting the musical artistry of the Cebuanos then and now, Ms. Kimberly Raya and Casas performed the time-honored classics Sa Kabukiran and Usahay respectively while Ms. Therese Marie Langit and Dr. Kim Francis Rodriguez playfully rendered the Vispop hit Bok Love.

Finally, The Beauty emphasized on the timeless charisma of the Cebuana defined by her strong character and unique charm in the song Babayeng Sugbuanon as performed by Rodriguez with the special participation of Dr. Daisy Palompon, the Officer-in-Charge to the Office of the University President of CNU and Dr. Laurence Garcia, the OIC University and Board Secretary.

“The concept of the presentation of Cebu Normal University really showcases the art and culture that we have been preserving and we are very proud of of our very own Cebu.” Palompon said.

Palompon also lauded the entire CNU delegation for having been able to come up with a meaningful and impressive presentation despite limitations of time.

“It was a very meaningful presentation despite the limited time preparation but the team – the performers really demonstrated their love for music, their love for arts, showcasing their talent and also giving their best for Cebu Normal University.” Palompon said.

The CNU performers consisted of administrative staff, faculty, and University Officials:

Administrative Staff:

  1. Mr. Nilmark Argomido (College of Medicine)
  2. Ms. Mary Jane Auman (External Affairs and International Linkages Office)
  3. Ms. Mary Jermaine Estrada (College of Teacher Education)
  4. Ms. Jessa Fernandez (Learning Resource Center)
  5. Mr. Harrold Gogo (Finance Services Division)
  6. Ms. Honey Grace Irizari (Supply Office)
  7. Ms. Imee Jeruta (External Affairs and International Linkages Office)
  8. Mr. Nelson Sombilon (Records Office)
  9. Ms. Mae Quilaton (Office of the Vice-President for Academic Affairs)

Faculty members

  1. Mr. Angelito Cabanilla (College of Teacher Education)
  2. Ms. Kimberly Raya (College of Teacher Education)
  3. Ms. Therese Marie Langit (College of Arts and Sciences)
  4. Mr. Karl Patrick Casas (College of Arts and Sciences)

University Officials:

  1. Dr. Kim Francis Rodriguez – Public Information Officer
  2. Dir. Naila Beltran – Director, External Affairs and International Linkages Office
  3. Dr. Laurence Garcia – OIC-University and Board Secretary
  4. Dr. Daisy Palompon – OIC-Office of the University President

The performance ended with a dance rendition of I Love Cebu with a curtain call of the performers and was well-applauded by the members of the audience. (KFR)

Dayagbil earns OPYA, MIT list spot

The fourth and former Cebu Normal University (CNU) State Universities and Colleges (SUC) President III, Dr. Filomena T. Dayagbil, CESE, was awarded the Outstanding Professional of the Year Award (OPYA) in the field of Professional Teachers for the year 2022 by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) last June 21, 2022.

According to the PRC, the OPYA is the highest award bestowed by the Commission upon a professional who has satisfactorily performed professionalism of the fullest caliber and has undertaken oneself with authenticity in the exercise of their profession as recommended by the awardee’s peers.

Furthermore, extending the reputation for competence and excellence, Dayagbil was also recognized as one of 2022’s Most Inspiring Teachers (MITs) in the Philippines by the Saceda Youth Lead (SYL) School last June 26, 2022.

Dave Saceda, the chairperson and founder of SYL School, revealed on his Facebook page that hundreds of nominees were screened for almost six months and yet only 28 awardees were chosen.

In an interview with Ang Suga, Dayagbil shared that it takes unwavering commitment, passion, and love for the teaching profession to be recognized in such awards. Hence, it touched and humbled her heart knowing that she was recognized as an educator who inspires youngsters.

“When you love teaching, you love the end-all and the be-all of teaching—the ‘welfare of the students’, and you aspire to make them learn and inspire them to become better versions of themselves,” she said. She then left heartwarming advice for future educators and educators who have just started to inspire students to “love your work, love your students, and nurture the essence of the teaching profession which is service above personal gains.”

The bestowment of the 2022 OPYA will be held on July 29, 2022, via a “new normal” setup while this year’s MIT awardees will be formally proclaimed in a Formation Training and Formal Awarding Ceremony on August 4-6, 2022 in Dumaguete City. §

Words by Sweety Mae Berandez
Photo grabbed from CNU’S Facebook page

CNU climbs 15th place in WURI Crisis Management ranking

Crimson and gold sparkled and soared yet again as Cebu Normal University (CNU) ranked 15th in the Top 50 Universities in Crisis Management category in the annual World Universities with Real Impact (WURI) rankings last June 9, 2022.
 
The university also bagged the 14th place in the same category the preceding year, where international and domestic higher education institutions (HEIs) were appraised for their efficiency, responsiveness, and societal contributions in the face of a variety of international and local disasters, ranging from climate crises to global pandemic, while also empowering education and resilience throughout.
 
The WURI annual ranking conference, now in its third year since its inception in 2020, honored and acknowledged HEIs that prospered in categories such like Innovation, Industrial Application, Entrepreneurial Spirit, Ethical Value, Student Mobility and Openness, Crisis Management, and this year’s new aspect, Fourth Industrial Revolution.
 
It was established by the Organizing Committee of the Hanseatic League of Universities (HLU) to assess and evaluate universities for their substantial impact on society, highlighting dynamic and imaginative approaches to research, and educational initiatives affiliating into the seven categories mentioned above.
 
 
Among the national universities which made it to the top were Far Eastern University, Biliran Province State University, FEU Institute of Technology, St. Paul University Philippines, Mariano Marcos State University, and Samar State University. §
 
Words and Screenshot by Kristine Mae Paquibot

CN celebrates Nightingales in face-to-face grad

Cap. Gown. It’s time to get down!
 
Despite the challenges and limitations imposed by the pandemic which temporarily halted face-to-face classes and even graduation rites, Cebu Normal University (CNU) – College of Teacher Education (CTE) of the academic year 2021-2022 held their 93rd Commencement Rites last June 7, 2022 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.
 
Epitomizing the essence of the ceremony’s theme “Celebrating Success and Resilience Amid Adversities”, the proud products of crimson and gold degree holders from graduate and undergraduate programs gathered for the first time after two years of virtual recognition ceremonies.
 
In his inspirational message, CNU State Universities and Colleges (SUC) President III Dr. Joselito B. Gutierrez expressed his gratitude and happiness on this momentous day. He went on to encourage the graduates to explore their God-given calling while also reminding them of the uses and dangers of technology.
 
“Have enough confidence on yourself and grow spiritually. Be always thankful to everyone – especially to your parents and have a long and satisfied life. Last but not the least; do not forget to show love and gratefulness to CNU,” Gutierrez concluded.
 
The program started with an academic procession followed by the presentation of candidates and the imposition of hoods by the Graduate studies for the Masters and Doctorate Program. The awarding of diplomas from undergraduate studies was thereafter followed.
 
Commencement speaker, Dr. Maura Consolacion D. Cristbal, ED.D, CESO III – Director IV of Commission on Higher Education (CHED) on Region VII imparted to the graduates that this is a new start of a new chapter in their journey.
 
“In your life, difficulties may come along the way but consider them as challenges. Step up to these challenges and work hard to succeed,“ Cristbal said.
 
She also furthered that “No matter how things may appear, you must never give up. Always remember that failure is the backbone of successful people.”
 
The momentous ceremony ended with the graduates singing the University Hymn. §
Words and Screenshots by Alea Marie Bareng

Virtual ceremony no more: CTE marks face-to-face grad rites

Cap. Gown. It’s time to get down!
 
Despite the challenges and limitations imposed by the pandemic which temporarily halted face-to-face classes and even graduation rites, Cebu Normal University (CNU) – College of Teacher Education (CTE) of the academic year 2021-2022 held their 93rd Commencement Rites last June 7, 2022 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.
 
Epitomizing the essence of the ceremony’s theme “Celebrating Success and Resilience Amid Adversities”, the proud products of crimson and gold degree holders from graduate and undergraduate programs gathered for the first time after two years of virtual recognition ceremonies.
 
In his inspirational message, CNU State Universities and Colleges (SUC) President III Dr. Joselito B. Gutierrez expressed his gratitude and happiness on this momentous day. He went on to encourage the graduates to explore their God-given calling while also reminding them of the uses and dangers of technology.
 
“Have enough confidence on yourself and grow spiritually. Be always thankful to everyone – especially to your parents and have a long and satisfied life. Last but not the least; do not forget to show love and gratefulness to CNU,” Gutierrez concluded.
 
The program started with an academic procession followed by the presentation of candidates and the imposition of hoods by the Graduate studies for the Masters and Doctorate Program. The awarding of diplomas from undergraduate studies was thereafter followed.
 
Commencement speaker, Dr. Maura Consolacion D. Cristbal, ED.D, CESO III – Director IV of Commission on Higher Education (CHED) on Region VII imparted to the graduates that this is a new start of a new chapter in their journey.
 
“In your life, difficulties may come along the way but consider them as challenges. Step up to these challenges and work hard to succeed,“ Cristbal said.
 
She also furthered that “No matter how things may appear, you must never give up. Always remember that failure is the backbone of successful people.”
 
The momentous ceremony ended with the graduates singing the University Hymn. §
Words and Screenshots by Alea Marie Bareng

New Normal Milestone: Liberals claim diploma in face-to-face grad ceremony

Back on the campus for the first time in more than two years—and it feels good!
 
After two years of virtual recognition programs, Cebu Normal University (CNU) finally opened its gates for the much-awaited 41st College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Commencement Rites, the first-ever mass gathering held in the university during the pandemic last June 6, 2022, at Samuel McClintock (SM) Hall.
 
With the theme, “Celebrating Success and Resilience Amid Aversities”, this year’s commencement exercises honored the pioneering batch of the K-12 Program as they set off to a new chapter of their lives.
 
Dr. Maura Consolacion D. Cristobal, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region VII Regional Director, graced the event as the resource speaker. She imparted to the dreamers that “success doesn’t happen by accident. It involves a lot of hard work, determination, and patience.”
 
Cristobal commended the students for manifesting grit, creativity, resourcefulness, and strength of character as they ventured clueless into the new normal setup and overcame the adversities that came along with it.
 
Additionally, she said that the “Bayanihan” or volunteerism spirit is evident in the school setting as the teachers and administrators were able to respond to the uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity of the situation.
 
Quoting Martin Luther King Jr., Cristobal reminded the graduates, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
 
The day-long ceremony was divided into two parts to avoid overcrowding: morning for the Bachelor of Arts graduates and afternoon for the Bachelor of Science. §
 
Words by Reina Aureo
Photos grabbed from CNU – Council of Liberal Arts and Sciences Students (CLASS)

CNU signs MOU with Futures Thinking

Cebu Normal University (CNU) joined the Futures Thinking Consortium of Central Visayas at Cebu Technological University (CTU) on April 20, 2022.
 
With the theme “Reimagining a Greater CNU through Futures Thinking,” the proposal Capability Development of Faculty and Non-teaching Staff was conceptualized. Futures Thinking proposed creating a foresight unit that shall take the lead in coordinating foresight processes and monitor the implementation of policy processes with foresight interventions.
 
The Ceremonial Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was attended by the faculty members and administrators of CNU, Dr. Catalina Canasa, Dr. Milagros M. Greif, Dr. Reynaldo Inocian, and Dr. Marchee Picardal, together with CNU President Dr. Joselito B. Gutierrez.
 
Philippine Futures Thinking Society (PhilFutures) is a professional organization that utilizes education, training, research, and advocacy, using the power of foresight to provide tactical handles and direction for kindling the Filipino dreams.
 
The organization collaborated with other state universities and colleges (SUCs) in Region 7 and will hold training workshops led by experts from PhilFutures. Through this, it is hoped that the professors and personnel will be more innovative and creative as they gain the strategic provision in determining and preparing for a desirable future.
 
Moreover, it is expected that by identifying realistic future scenarios, challenges that support the university’s delivery of major final outputs will be addressed such as quality and relevant instruction, research and development, extension and community linkages, digitization, automation of operations, and occupational safety and health.
 
CNU envisioned becoming greater by investing in its people, and the partnership with an organization that provides professional development services and corporate training will enhance its potential for future-ready graduates. §
 
Words by Jonalyn Infante
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