It is important that the registered child receive a birth certificate, since it is this that provides permanent, official and visible evidence of a state’s legal recognition of existence as a member of society. Birth certification enables a child to receive medical treatment, go to school, inherent property, prevent child exploitation and find legal assistance due to them.

During the siege, some of the documents of the IDPs either got loss or burned, wherein validation is needed to reproduce these legal documents including birth certificate. While culturally, some of the IDPs ( e.g. Bajau ) doesn’t really register their new born babies nor they record their birth into legal documents like baptismal or birth certificate. These and all, hampered their access to most of the benefits provided to them, thus, the WMSU-PHSI team, through its ECCD project has closely coordinated with Jabo-jabo to address documentation needs.

Jabo – jabo ( The Calling ) is an non-profit organization that facilitates baptismal registration among IPs, duly honored by the National Statistics Office (NSO), National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) and the Local Civil Registry of ZC. The document issued is hereby acknowledged by the 3 mentioned government units as a prerequisite to facilitate legal standard procedure in birth certificate application.

The initiative was identified during the ECCD registration and during sessions that some of the children could not present a legal document like baptismal or birth certificate. As a supplementary activity of the project, a solidarity ceremonial awarding of baptismal document was organized last April 8, 2016, at the Multi-purpose Hall of Masepla 1.

Ust. Jamal S. Mohammad had the opening prayer, followed by welcoming and rationale of the event by WMSU-PHSI Director Dr. Marcelina G. Carpizo. The importance of Baptismal Certificate (Katar-rangan sin Paggunting) was discussed by Mr. Jaafar B. Kimpa, President of Jabu-Jabu (The Calling) Inc.. while Ust. Nasir H. Usman, Al-Hajj officiated the Pagdua’a. Certificates were personally released to 113 IDP youth and children, coming from Masepla 1 (53), Masepla 2 (31) and Masepla 3 (29). The activity was wrapped up by the project’s Info. Management Assistant, Engr Marlon Grande through acknowledging partners/stakeholders.

The main objective of the activity is to advocate for stronger support to ECCD programs/services, were children will be assured with necessary interventions ( e.g. baptismal registration), to retain their interest for learning until they have completed learning session at the DCC, alongside with parents who are active partners in their children’s holistic development.

Western Mindanao State University Integrated Laboratory School (WMSU-ILS) celebrated its Commencement Exercises on March 18 at the Dr. Juanito A. Bruno Gymnasium, Zamboanga City. With the theme “Recognizing the Culture of Excellence for Professional and International Social and Economic Opportunities”, parents and graduates from the elementary and high school department convened for this momentous activity.

Present during the ceremony were University President Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho, Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena, Vice President for Administration and Finance (VPAF) Dr. Joselito Madroñal, College of Teacher Education (CTE) Dean Nolan S. Iglesia, Student Regent Robert Parcon and WMSU Officials.
High School Principal Mr. Joel C. Macasinag with Elementary Prinicipal Dr. Anna Louisa R. Perez, President of WMSU Alumni Association, Inc., Police Chief Supt. Ramon Ochotorena and ILS Alumni Coordinator Mr. Richard C. Dagalea were also present during the event.

The graduates and the proud parents listened attentively as Mr. Dagalea introduced the guest speaker of the ceremony. Chair of the Physics Department of College of Science and Mathematics (CSM), Guest Speaker Dr. Joel Fernando inspired the graduates and the proud parents with his encouraging graduation message. Dr. Fernando is a graduate of the ILS High School in 1982.

Chaudhri Ameer T. Jumurin, Class Valedictorian of the ILS High School Department gave an inspiring speech on his valedictory address. “Remember to set your goals right, not too high that it becomes ludicrous, and not too low that it is ridiculous, but just at the right achievable level. Whenever you get too tired, wake yourself and remind yourself of your goal,” Jumurin said.

Sharif Abdurahman L. Abil is the High School Salutatorian while Abraham G. Sahi and Chryxialei P. Andrade are first and second honors of the Elementary Department, respectively. (Liezel M. Parreño, PAO)

Honorable Christopher Arnuco, Chairman of Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone Authority (ZamboEcozone), was one of Western Mindanao State University’s guest speakers during the 71st Commencement Exercises held on March 29 and 30 at Dr. Juanito Bruno Gymnasium.

In his speech, Arnuco brought up the economic expansion in the country and how it is making waves on the world stage. He said both presidents of the World Bank, Jim Yong Kim and Asian Development Bank, Takehiko Nakao have high regards on the growth of the Philippine economy.

He said that the Philippines has just received the European Union General Scheme of Preference Plus status that allows the country to export more than 6,000 products to any of the 28 member economies of the European Union. Arnuco further mentioned that the country has just entered the year of Integration within Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), opening a single regional market with an estimated 650 million consumers. This will allow goods and services to freely move among the 10 member economies.

Arnuco was proud to say that Zamboanga City has improved tremendously from 79th place to 15th under the National Competitiveness Council Report Year 2015 indicating that the city has a dynamic workforce.

The ZamboEcozone Chair inspired the graduates as he talked about the struggles and successes of world-renowned people including Henry Ford, John Pierpont Morgan, John Rockefeller, Steve Jobs, Bill Gates and the Philippines’ John Gokongwei. Arnuco said these people also experienced harsh conditions like civil wars, lack of housing and poor logistics before they achieved success.

“These people are brilliant and are driven by self-interest. They know what they want and their personal beliefs are their passion,” Arnuco said. “They have clarity of knowing what they want. Successful people know this and you should know it by now,” he added.

“The simple difference between those who are successful against those who are not is that successful people dream; their dreams lead to beliefs, beliefs turned to thoughts, they put their thoughts into motion and their actions generate result,” the ZamboEcozone head continued. “Whether you think you can or you cannot, either way you are right,” Arnuco quoting the famous line of Henry Ford.

The chairman urged the students to acknowledge that failure is part of success, encouraging the audience, especially the graduates, to embrace failure and use it as a motivator. He gave three dimensions as part of success- passion, vision, and purpose.

Hon. Arnuco said that passion is to have a strong feeling for something, like choosing a degree and working hard for it. One needs vision in order to get through the sets of plans and targets. Most especially, a person needs to have a purpose in order to anchor passion and vision and attain success.

“Success comes when you are true to your passion, faithful to your vision and most especially to be anchored by your purpose,” were Arnuco’s powerful words to the graduates. (Liezel M. Parreño, PAO)

Overwhelmed yet challenged Dr. Chona Q. Sarmiento faces tasks of enriching and upgrading research, extension and external linkages, as newly appointed Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension Services and External Linkages (RESEL) of the Western Mindanao State University. Following the retirement of Dr. Roberto B. Torres as the VP for RESEL last May 13, 2016, University President Dr. Milabel E. Ho appoints Dr. Sarmiento as VP-RESEL OIC taking effect on the same date.

Equipped with ample experience earned in the vast field of research programs and studies, Dr. Sarmiento aims to produce more major final outputs for RESEL in the end of the year “looking at the big cluster of units under RESEL, I have to look into the major final outputs for research, extension and the external linkages because it is always the outcomes and accomplished outputs that the University should be workin g on,” says Dr. Sarmiento. She also foresees the alignment of the different units under the office to be ISO 9001; 2016 accredited. “The whole RESEL unit should pass the ISO 9001 series of 2016 which means the Office should be able to define standards and goals and identify ways on how to reach the University Standard Level 5 (five),” she added. According to her, in order to meet the requirements for the leveling, researches produced by the University should meet the terms of university standard, in terms of extension services; the outputs should greatly improve the lives of the people in the community since they are the first clients who give feedback. They are the end users of the research outputs. And as for the external linkages, the University should align itself towards the ASEAN Integration 2015-2016. But in order to meet the University set standards for leveling, RESEL should work hand in hand with the academic and the research community. Taking the position as the Director for Research Development and Evaluation Center is Dr. Reynante Autida, former RDEC Associate Director.

In the meantime, Dr. Sarmiento aims to get all the units under RESEL to define their targets at the end of the academic year and identify the milestone of its targets.

Soon, she sees the WMSU RESEL community expanding and defining the road map towards excellence as the University of choice in this part of the region.

WMSU Vice President for Research Extension Services and External Linkages (RESEL) Dr. Roberto B. Torres has retired from government service last May 13, 2016.
Dr. Torres was initially part of the Non-Formal Education (NFE) now known as the Department of Extension Services and Community Development (DESCD). As a passionate man of art, his main role is to handle fashion designing and modeling.
Being a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Education major in Biology, he then joined the College of Science and Mathematics (CSM) as a faculty member. He was assigned by then president Dr. Fernando to be the Special Assistant for Socio-Culture and the Arts and was responsible for all the programs related to the culture and the arts under the Office of the President.
He was designated as the Director for Alumni Affairs which according to Dr. Torres was a big task and served for ten years. Thereafter he was assigned to be the first Director for the Office of the Culture Theater and the Arts (OCTA). He was OCTA Director for twelve years before being appointed by WMSU Prexy Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho as Officer-In-Charge (OIC) for Research Development and Extension (RDE). When the revised university code was approved by the Board of Regents in 2013, Dr. Torres assumed the position as VP for RESEL up to his retirement.
Dr. Torres believes that his biggest achievement in the academe is succeeding in the implementation of the extension program. “Before, our faculty and the people in the university only know that extension is about cleaning the street, going to community service or conducting love drives. These are not considered as extension services,” he said. “Now, I am very happy that our constituents have already understood that Extension Program is in helping build a community from what they are and where they will be in the future, building up in terms of governance, livelihood, family relationship and in terms of environmental development,” he added.
When asked about the things that he will miss upon retirement, Sir Bert said that he will miss coming to school and the people he had worked with, especially the different directors who assisted him in implementing the different programs under RESEL. He also mentioned that he will definitely miss President Ho and will miss accompanying her in social activities.
Fondly called as Sir Bert, he is generally described by people around him as generousand nurturing as a friend. Regional Science Training Center Director Dr. Araceli Lim who is part of Sir Bert’s circle of friends called F4, described him as nurturing because despite his busy schedule, he still takes time to meet friends over coffee or lunch.
He is more of a friend than a superior to those who have worked with him. He is a good adviser and a counselor to those who seek advice especially with personal concerns. “I’d like to impart to them that in anything they do they always think positive. To be positive is to achieve a goal. I always remind them to be always positive because whatever they want and whatever they dream for, being positive is easy for them to attain their goals,” he said.
Now that he is free from academic duties and responsibilities, Dr. Torres plans to pursue his business in fashion designing, write more books and continue his chabacano advocacy by authoring books in chabacano. He may have reached the age for retirement but surely he is still full of vigor and enthusiasm to continue his passion.

Sec. Piñol engages technicians at the WMSU Tissue Laboratory

Incoming DA Sec Piñol together with Cong. Celso Lobregat, Jomar Lobregat and WMSU San Ramon officials and members

Congressman Celso L. Lobregat, together with Incoming Department of Agriculture secretary Manny Piñol, recently visited the WMSU College of Agriculture last June 3 at the San Ramon campus as part of the secretary’s Biyaheng Bukid.

WMSU is thankful and the university looks forward to better opportunities for the College of Agriculture. We thank Congressman Celso Lobregat for facilitating the said visit and for bringing in incoming DA Sec. Piñol to have a quick look at the ongoing projects of the College .

Photo courtesy of the Celso L. Lobregat

The Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) through the College of Forestry and Environmental Studies (CFES) and the College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) in coordination with the Center for Continuing Education (CCE) conducted a research seminar on paper presentation and publication writing on June 3, 2016 at the WMSU Research Conference Room.

Newly appointed Officer-In-Charge of the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension Services and External Linkages (RESEL), Dr. Chona Q. Sarmiento served as one of the resource speakers. She talked about conference practices and how to select a good conference as well as preparing and executing the presentation in order to successfully deliver what the research is about.

Management Information System and Technology Office (MISTO) Director, Dr. Cielito C. Olegario also gave a lecture on how to effectively use Microsoft PowerPoint Design for Paper Presentation. She discussed the guidelines on how to make slide structures, selecting proper fonts and its sizes, colors and background best suited for presenting research papers.

Another resource speaker was RUPID Director Dr. Julieta B. Tendero who gave tips on how to write a research paper for publication. She stressed on the need to publish papers to support WMSU’s aspiration to become a Research University per CHED Memorandum Order No. 48 series of 1996 known as “Updated Standards and Guidelines for the Grant and/or Retention of University Status vis-à-vis Higher Education Institutions (HEIs)”.

Also present were CFES Dean Dr. Fredelino San Juan and CCJE Dean Dr. Effrendy Estipona and the participants from their respective colleges. An open forum was provided after each discussion for clarifications and questions. The participants were also given oral and written assessment to gauge their knowledge about the discussions.

Dr. Sarmiento together with CCE Assistant Director Dr. Mary Joselyn Biong led the awarding of certificates of appreciation and recognition. (Liezel M. Parreño, PAO)

Dr. Marilou C. Elago, Coordinating Dean of the WMSU Graduate School, presented a study on Norovirus-Rotavirus Outbreak in the city during the 11th Asia-Pacific Bio-Safety Association (APBA) Annual Conference in Cambodia last May 30-June 3, 2016.

The collaborative study entitled “Norovirus-Rotavirus Outbreak in Zamboanga City, Philippines” discusses how these viruses impacted the health of the residents especially the children in the city and what actions were taken to stop the Acute Gastroenteritis (AGE) epidemic caused by these viruses. Most especially, it talks about the possibility of these microorganisms to be used as a risk to bio-safety and bio-security in the city.

Norovirus Infection is a highly contagious disease. A person can get norovirus from contaminated food and water or by simply touching an infected person or surfaces. These result to vomiting and/or diarrhea, other foodborne-disease outbreaks and can even lead to serious complications and death.

According to Dr. Elago, who is also the Founding President of the Philippine Bio-Safety and Bio-Security Association- Western Mindanao Chapter, it is necessary to determine whether these microorganisms can be used as a weapon for mass destruction especially with the insurgencies that occurred in the city.

The study proposes that the City Health Office should enhance health advocacy on water boiling with hygiene and sanitation; improve sanitary and hygienic practices, actively promote adherence to hand hygiene among healthcare personnel, patients, and visitors in patient care areas; and perform routine cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched environmental surfaces and equipment in health facilities. Dr. Elago also strongly recommends a Septage Management Promotion Campaign that aims to educate the community by reaching out to the grassroots level.

This study is a joint effort of Dr. Marilou Elago, Dr. Ruby Constantino from Department of Health (DOH), Maxel Bermas from Regional Epidemiology Surveillance Unit (RESU), Dr. Romeo Ong and Dr. Norvie T. Jalani from Zamboanga City Medical Center (ZCMC), Dr. Rosemarie Arciaga, and Dorothy Aicha Sale from WMSU Graduate Studies. (Liezel M. Parreño, PAO)

(L-R)Hon. Cong. Mannix Dalipe, Hon. City Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar, WMSU Prexy Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho and Hon. Vice Mayor Cesar Iturralde.

Dr. Ho together with District 1 Congressman Celso L. Lobregat, District 1 City Councilor Charlie Mariano with WMSU Public Affairs Office Director Dr. Lea E. Usman.

Hon. Bong Atilano together with WMSU Prexy Dr. Milabel Enriquez Ho, PAO Director Dr. Lea E. Usman, Hon. Jihan Edding and Hon. Charlie Mariano

City Health Officer Dr. Rodelin Agbulos, Dr. Milabel Enriquez Ho, Dr. Lea E. Usman with the local officials.

The Western Mindanao State University through its president Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho attended the maiden inaugural session of the Sangguniang Panglungsod ng Zamboanga held last July 19, 2016.

The University together with other local government line agencies has strongly manifested support towards the newly elected Zamboanga City officials, to start with the re-elected ZC mayor Hon. Ma. Isabel climaco Salazar, Cong. Celso L. Lobregat (District 1), Cong. Manuel Jose M. Dalipe (District 2) and the newly elected 16 district councilors for districts 1 and 2.

For the first time, all the 16 councilors were given the opportunity to highlight their good intentions and plans for the city and the entire Zamboanga Peninsula for the next three years. The councilors stood proud and full of conviction in narrating specific programs intended to address wide-ranging problems e.g. socio-economic, environmental, political and health issues facing the Zamboangueños.

As an academic institution, the University sees itself as a proactive partner to all these undertakings by initially providing a good opportunity for quality education and at the same time better access to education for all.

The University furthermore supports the city council’s proposal for protecting, preserving, and maximizing the utilization of our natural resources particularly protecting wildlife and preserving watershed and mangrove areas in the identified barangays with these endangered resources.
The proposal for the conversion of the Mindanao Central Sanitarium to a Zamboanga City General Hospital cum Rehabilitation Center for drug dependents is going to be a worthwhile undertaking that is going to benefit a number of people in the City.

Also congruent to the proposal on health and sanitation is the Zamboanga City council’s intensification of the implementation of the Solid Waste Management, particularly the collection and segregation of waste disposals in the city to which WMSU has already been actively engaged in for having won as DENR Outstanding Eco-friendly Institution in Region IX. Furthermore, among the political issues raised which the University is also examining closely is the present government’s move towards Federalism in the country. One of the newly-elected councilor mentioned that Federalism maybe implemented provided that the present political set up where Zamboanga City is clustered together with the provinces of Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga Sibugay, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi and Basilan should be under one region. This proposal increases the political awareness of the Zamboangueños to which the University would like to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas and opinions that will benefit the Zamboangueños.

These are only a few of the major plans that were raised by the newly-elected ZC officials to which the University would like to be primarily involved in the process of putting all these plans into reality for the next three years.

835 finishers proudly marched down the aisle during the 6th culminating activity of the English Proficiency for International Competencies held on April 1, 2016 at the Dr. Juanito Bruno Gymnasium of the Western Mindanao State University.

These finishers have satisfactorily completed the required number of units required by the language development course of the Language Development Resource Center (LDRC) under the supervision of Prof. Julie Uy-Cabato, director.
In welcoming University Officials, honored guests and EPIC finishers in this year’s culminating program, LDRC Director emphasized the privileges of being linguistically articulated and of those who undergone English Proficiency courses. “We want to produce graduates who are not only technically competent, culturally privileged but are definitely linguistically literate,” says LDRC Director.

LDRC also recognized 13 students who exemplify excellence all throughout the language proficiency program, they are:

Rank 1- Nicole Kate F. Romero, Careema A. Abdulajid,
Rank 2- Cherrie-Ann C. Alabastro, Gia May A. Salarda, Paul Bryan Q. Fabella,
Rank 3- Shamira Fat S. Said, Bernadette B. Julian, Leigh Sheen B. Bernardo, Hermielisa B. Guiroy, Aizon L. Susulan,
Rank 4- Rosette UC Kung Bartolome, Karl Daverick D. Delgado, Christian Joe M. Santander

These top performing students were awarded with a Certificate of Recognition. Finishers were awarded with a Certificate of Completion. University President Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho led the distribution of certificates and the awarding of token to the honorable Guest Speaker, the Executive Assistant to the Office of the City Mayor, Mr. Michael Angelo S. Saavedra.

Aside from the English Proficiency course, LDRC also offers short course foreign languages including Bahasa Malay and Spanish.

The Western Mindanao State University headed by President Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho, College of Home Economics (CHE) Dean Dr. Lucia Santos and other officials led the inauguration of the University Hostel last June 6, 2016.

Present during the blessing of the facility were Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena, Vice-President for Administration and Finance Dr. Joselito Madroñal, the administrative officials of the university and faculty members of CHE.

Also present to grace the event were officials from the University’s partner agencies including Regional Director Annabelle Echavez, Assistant Director Nilda Cemine and McDonald Alo from Department of Budget and Management (DBM); and Education Program Supervisors from Department of Education (DepEd), Dr. Victoria D. Mangaser and Dr. Valeria G. Corteza. The ceremony was presided over by Fr. Max Rodriguez of the Claret Parish.

Dean Santos, who is the main proponent of the project, said that they are happy that the hostel will soon be opened to serve as a laboratory for students to have a hands-on experience in their practicums and at the same time offer its services to the public. This will help the college and the students in meeting competencies and standards based on the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Memorandum Orders of the different programs offered by CHE.

The restaurant will start its operation on July 18 and the college will deploy their students with food service practicums. Meanwhile, the accommodation will open by second semester this school year. The operation of the hostel will be manned by Dean Santos as the concurrent manager and faculty members of CHE as supervisors of the different areas such as Instructional Program, Production Unit and the Business Center. This facility will also be a venue for job opportunities for Bachelor in Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management (BS HRM) graduates with National Certificates from Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

The hostel has five Standard Rooms that is good for three persons and has a television, a cabinet and hot and cold shower in each room. It also has a one bedroom suite which is good for two persons and is bigger than the standard rooms. The grant of 20% discount to Senior Citizens will also be observed and is applicable to both the restaurant and accommodation while WMSU employees can enjoy a 10% discount on accommodation. The guest rooms and the lobby are fully air-conditioned.

As one security measure, the university hostel proposes to adopt a referral system to accept guests that are referred to by officials and employees of the university. The Non-Smoking Policy of the University shall also be applied to the hostel guests.

The second phase of the project will include hostel services like the wellness center, spa, boutique, and other services that are necessary in a training facility for the BS HRM program. (Liezel M. Parreño, WMSU-PAO)

On its mission to maximize established benefits of information and communications technology in health care, Department of Science and Technology -Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD) introduced one of its latest innovations in health care services named RxBox to the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) community last June 3, 2016.

RxBox is a program designed to provide better access to life-saving health care services in isolated communities in the country. It is one among DOST’s efforts for a “Smarter Philippines”. According to PCHRD, this latest innovation played a very vital role in the development of the National Telehealth Service Program (NTSP), currently one of the Department of Health’s (DOH) efforts towards Universal Health care.

The RxBox is an attaché case-like device with a wide screen monitor that has blood pressure monitor, pulse oximeter, Electrocardiogram (ECG), fetal heart monitor, maternal tocometer and temperature sensor. It is also has built-in camera that allows virtual examination, when necessary. It also improves the documentation of patient information using its Community Health Information and Tracking System (CHITS)-electronic medical record. It transmits data through wireless fidelity (Wifi) or television (TV) frequency.

Data garnered using this device is sent to the National Telehealth Center located in the University of the Philippines Manila-National Institutes of Health and is kept in its database for further usage and referrals.
The innovation is primarily made for pregnant women as it supports the country’s race towards the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) on improving maternal and neonatal health services in the country, most especially in areas which are graphically isolated. It also supports the campaign to control non communicable diseases which are said to be the major causes of death and diseases in the Philippines. It also reduces unnecessary travels and hospitalizations of patients. PCHRD first trains health care providers and information technicians before the issuance of the device.

During PCHRD’s visit, they were also able to present scholarship programs for students, faculty and University researcher. The group also benchmarked the Science and Technology hub of the College of Engineering and Technology for feasible partnership.

WMSU has been an active partner of the DOST-PCHRD in the various research projects in the region to include the Balik Scientist program which allows Filipino Scientists abroad to conduct symposiums and seminars in the various universities in the Philippines through partnership with concerned agencies.

Bilang pagbibigay pugay sa wikang Filipino at sa mayaman nitong kultura, opisyal na inilunsad ng Kapisanang Filipino katuwang ang Departamento ng Filipino at ang Kolehiyo ng Malalayang Sining ang month-long na paggunita sa Buwan ng Wika alinsunod sa tema para sa taong ito, “Filipino: Wika ng Karunungan”.

Binigyang-diin ng Panauhing Tagapagsalita, ang Education Program Supervisor ng Departamento ng Edukasyon, Dr. Hilda B. Frando ang paggamit ng wikang Filipino sa larangan ng pananaliksik lalo’t halos lahat ng mga thesis at disertasiyonon ay nakasulat sa wikang Ingles. Isa umano ito sa mga kadahilanan ng dahan-dahang pagpigil sa pagkaunlad ng ating wika.

Kabilang sa mga naroroon sa pambungad na programa ay ang Presidente, Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho, Bise Presidente para sa Academic Affairs, Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena, Bise Presidente para sa Administration and Finance, Dr. Joselito D. Madroñal, Bise Presidente para sa Research, Extension Services and External Linkages, Dr. Chona Q. Sarmiento, Bise Presidente para sa Resource Generation, Dr. Teresita Narvaez, mga Direktor, Dekano at mag-aaral nitong Unibersidad.

Iba’t-ibang patimpalak ang nakatakda para sa buwang ito, ito ay ang mga sumusunod:

University Prexy Dr. Milabel E. Ho welcomes the batch 2 AACCUP team during their courtesy call minutes before the survey visit proper

Prof. Emmanuel P. Leaño, critically assess the documents presented by CLA faculty, Prof. Nerlyne Concepcion and CET Faculty, Engr. Antonio Limbaga.

Photos taken during the discussion and assessment of the entire survey visit of the selected AACCUP accreditation from all over the country

photos taken during the discussion and assessment of the entire survey visit of the selected AACCUP accreditation from all over the country

Accreditors werte awarded with certificates of appreciation by the University, headed by Dr. Ho and with the assistance of VP for Academic Affairs Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena during the closing program. A posterity shot was also taken together with the Prexy, VPAA and the VP for Administration and Finance Dr. Joselito D. Madroñal

Ocular inspections were conducted by the accrediting team during the survey visit. Dr. Cesar B. Ortiz visits the College of Forestry campus-assessing their extension sites, laboratories and instructional facilities.

The Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) conducted two consecutive series of accreditation of the programs under the Colleges of Liberal Arts (CLA), Home Economics (CHE), Asian and Islamic Studies (CAIS), Criminal Justice and Education (CCJE), Engineering and Technology (CET), Physical Education, Recreation and Sports (CPERS), Agriculture (CA) and the College of Forestry and Environmental Sciences (CFES) for SUC levels one (1) and (2) following the University’s aim to meet the higher university standards of SUCs in the Philippines.

Selected renowned AACUP accreditors from all over the region headed by their overall coordinators Dr. Belladona A. Cortez and Dr. Agapito M. Bayron Jr. made a thorough examination of the different areas of the programs namely: Area I-Vision, Mission, Goals & Objectives, Area II- faculty Profile, Area III- Curriculum & Instruction, Area IV- Support to Student, Area V- Research, Area VI- Extension & Community Involvement, Area VII-Library, Area VIII- Physical Plant & Facilities, Area IX- Laboratories and Area X-Administration.

Programs evaluated for AACUP Level one (1) includes AB in Asian Studies, Bachelor of Science in Islamic Studies, AB in Broadcasting, AB in English, AB in History, AB in Journalism, Bachelor of Science in Criminology, programs under the CPERS, BS in Accountancy, BS in Economics, Bachelor in Electronics Engineering, BS in Agribusiness, BS in Agricultural Engineering, Bachelor in Agricultural Technology, BS in Agriculture, BS in Agroforestry, BS in Forestry and BS in Environmental Science. BS in food Technology and BS in Hotel and Restaurant Management were already for AACUP Level two (2).

Aside from critiquing the supporting documents presented for each of the aforementioned areas, the evaluating team also conducted ocular inspections on the different laboratories and libraries of each of the programs, classroom instruction and extension programs.

These colleges have undergone series of internal accreditations to evaluate the preparedness and to identify the weak spots for improvements of these programs. The accreditation undertaking is made possible through the efforts of the Office of the President under Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho, Office of the vice President for Academic Affairs under Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena, and the Quality Assurance Office under the supervision of Dr. Susan Dela Cruz and Prof. Sarah Taupan.

According to the Quality Assurance Office, the University, at present, over 50 AACCUP accredited programs, and is looking forward to the accreditation of all programs offered by the University. (Ella Dee-PAO-WMSU)

Western Mindanao State University, headed by its President Dr. Milabel Enriquez Ho and University officials, kicked off its Founding Anniversary celebration to commemorate its 112 years of glorious existence and excellent service last July 18, 2016 at the Dr. Juanito Bruno Gymnasium, this University.

The remarkable event started with a thanksgiving mass and a motorcade right after which was participated by the different offices and colleges. Honorable guests and the entire WMSU family was welcomed by the OIC VP for Research, Extension Services and External Linkages (OVP-RESEL) Dr. Chona Q. Sarmiento who has been with the University through its endeavors.

An audio-video presentation was also presented during the solemn event highlighting the memorable stages the University and its leaders have gone and is going through for 112 excellent and blissful years.
The Crimson community also celebrated the reappointment of Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho as WMSU President through a simple inaugural thanksgiving attended by representatives from the local government and partner agencies, to include: Cong. Celso L. Lobregat, District 1 Representative; Cong. Manuel Jose M. Dalipe, District 2 Representative; District 1 Councilor Hon. Cesar Jimenez, Jr. who represented City Mayor Beng Climaco and District 2 Councilor Hon. Jimmy Villaflores.

Present during the ceremony were the dignified members of the Board of Regents, Dr. Juanito R. Demetrio, CHED Regional Director; Hon. Teresita Socorro C. Ramos (NEDA Regional Director); Hon, Myl Johann R. Amsid (Private Sector Representative); Hon. Ramon M. Ochotorena (WMSU Alumni Association, Inc. President); Hon. Edgar R. Araojo (Faculty Union President); Hon. Robert O. Parcon (University Student Council President), Dr. Milavel D. Nazario, Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology President; Dr. Rodelin M. Agbulos, City Health Officer; former Vice President for RESEL Dr. Roberto B. Torres, and former PAO Director and WMSU Retirees Association President Prof. Ali T. Yacub, Al-haj.

Zamboanga City Mayor Beng Climaco through Hon. Cesar Jimenez announces the foundation of a stronger relationship between the local government and the University. He emphasized “the city government, under Mayor Beng, will continue to assist the University for the good of its students and faculty…On your reappointment, we are renewing as well our partnership, a much stronger partnership between the city government of Zamboanga and the Western Mindanao State University.”

During her first term, Dr. Ho was able to increase the University’s annual budget from P267 732 000.00 to P513 700 000 plus, the leveling of program accreditation also; she was able to revive the weakening University. “When I came in in 2012, our University was in the middle of breaking up in terms of our relationship, we tried to unify our University because we want our University to be strong,” says Dr. Ho.

In accordance with Republic Act No. 8292 and by virtue of Resolution No. 7, Series of 2016 of the WMSU Board of Regents, Dr. Ho was reappointed as WMSU President from April 17, 2016 to April 16, 2020. Dr. Ho also thanked the university officials, the members of the Board of Regents, and the entire WMSU community for working together for the growth and development of the university. (Liezel M. Parreño, PAO-WMSU)

The new set of Faculty Union Officers with the University President Dr. Milabel Enriquez Ho (4th from left) during their courtesy visit at the Office of the President. (L-R) Treasurer Prof. Susan Montebon (CSM); President Engr. Alvin Miguel (CET; Secretary Manilyn Miñoza (ILS-Elem); Auditor Dr. Mohammad Nur Paspasan (CSM); Project Manager Prof. Ardel Barre (CFES); PIO Prof. Carl Richard Dagalea (ILS-HS); and Vice President Prof. Al-ghani Mohammad (CLA).

The WMSU Faculty Union Officers for 2016-2018, headed by the new President Engr. Alvin Miguel (2nd from left), took their oath before Atty. Eduardo F. Sanson (left most), Dean College of Law, at the Law Moot Court last July 27,2016.

The new Faculty Union Leaders with College of Law Dean Atty. Eduardo F. Sanson (2nd from left) in a posterity shot after the oath taking ceremony.

The newly-elected officials of the WMSU Faculty Union, headed by the new President Engr. Alvin Miguel, took their oath before Atty. Eduardo F. Sanson, Dean College of Law, during the oath taking ceremony held at the College of Law Moot Court last July 27, 2016.

Engr. Alvin Miguel, a professor of the College of Engineering and Technology (CET) Electrical Engineering Department, triumphed over five other candidates as he was elected as the new Faculty Union President in an election held last July 15, 2016 at the Juanito Bruno Gymnasium.

Other elected officers of the union are: Vice President Prof. Al-ghani Mohammad (College of Liberal Arts); Secretary Prof. Manilyn Miñoza (ILS-Elementary); Treasurer Prof. Susan Montebon (College of Science and Mathematics); PIO Prof. Carl Richard Dagalea (ILS- High School); Auditor Dr. Mohammad Nur Paspasan (College of Science and Mathematics); and Project Manager Prof. Ardel Barre (College of Forestry and Environmental Studies).
Following the completion of Prof. Edgar Araojo, outgoing president’s two-year term, the union sees new light in the person of its freshly elected leaders to pursue the endeavors of the preceding administration and introduce new projects and programs beneficial to the faculty members of this university.

Engr. Miguel said he is ecstatic to start his work as Faculty Regent. “I’m very happy that the members of the faculty have given their trust and confidence and elected me as their president,” said he. “I feel honored and proud to be the first faculty regent from the College of Engineering and Technology,” he added.
When asked about his plans for the union, Engr. Miguel said he will continue to engage in income-generating projects to ensure the stability of the Union’s treasury and to be able to give more assistance to the faculty. “We will continue to manage the canteen and we’ll look into the possibility of putting up a water refilling station in the university,” Engr. Miguel said. “We will also let the union engage in agri-business like poultry. We can utilize a portion of the vast La Paz Experimental Forest,” the new regent further added.

“We’ll also look into a program where we can improve the quality of instruction of the teachers like technology-based teaching method as well as trainings. I will endorse it to the administration that each department should be provided with overhead projectors and whiteboards,” added Engr. Miguel.

“Another project that we would like to implement is to grant loans to faculty members attending trainings and seminars for their personal and professional growth. They can pay it in installment such that it will not be a burden to them,” Engr. Miguel said.

The new regent is hopeful that, in his term, they can attend to the faculty’s social needs through a housing project where the faculty can be accommodated. “I would like to revive the plan of putting up a WMSU community through Pag-ibig,” he mentioned. “I feel that it is part of our corporate responsibility to make sure that they have their own house before or when they retire,” the engineer further said.

Section 3 of R.A. 8292 declared that the president of the Faculty Club of a State University or College shall be a member of its Board of Regents/Trustees. The union is celebrating its 15th year and it has grown through its dynamic leadership and a sense of camaraderie among its members. The new faculty leaders will serve for a period of two years commencing school year 2016-2017 until school year 2017-2018. The new faculty regent also served three times as president of the CET Faculty Club and was also a member of the Board of Directors of the Union Club from school years 2012-2015. (Liezel M. Parreño, PAO-WMSU)

Dr. Mohammad Nur S. Paspasan, professor of the College of Science and Mathematics (CSM) Mathematics Department, presented his paper “Edge Domination and Total Edge Domination in the Corona of Graphs” during the Mathematics Teachers Association of the Philippines Tertiary Level (MTAP-TL), Inc. International Convention held on July 27-29, 2016 at the Citystate Asturias Hotel Palawan, Puerto Prinsesa City, Palawan.

MTAP-TL Conference aims to discuss the current issues and aspects in the field of teaching and assessment of Mathematics. This conference was attended by Math teachers from different parts of the world. Dr. Paspasan, who took his doctoral degree in Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), presented his paper together with his adviser Dr. Sergio R. Canoy, Jr. of Department of Mathematics and Statistics, College of Science and Mathematics of MSU-IIT.

Dr. Paspasan is proud that he was able to present his paper in this international conference especially that this only happens once in four years. “I feel honored and privileged to present my paper and also represent WMSU in this international conference,” said Dr. Paspasan during an interview. “I also submitted this paper to Hikari Ltd, an international publisher, and it will be published under Applied Mathematical Sciences category. It’s now awaiting publication,” the professor further added.

Hikari Ltd is a publisher of international journals and books in science, technology and medicine founded in 2005. Hikari editions cover a wide range of disciplines with journals cataloged in significant number of libraries and specialized repositories.

The CSM faculty also presented his study entitled “Edge Domination and Total Edge Domination in the Join of Graphs” during the 2016 Mathematical Society of the Philippines Convention held on May 30-31 at the Bayfront Hotel, Cebu City. This paper was already published by Hikari Ltd, categorized under Applied Mathematical Sciences.
Also in December 2015, another paper of Dr. Paspasan entitled ““Restrained Total Edge Domination in Graphs” was published by Hikari Ltd. This paper was also judged as Best Paper during the National Convention of Mathematics Teachers Association of the Philippines Tertiary Level (MTAP-TL), Inc. held on July 29-31, 2015 at the Saint Louis University in Baguio City. (Liezel M. Parreño, PAO-WMSU)

The new contract of service (COS) Administrative Personnel of this University have successfully undergone a whole-day orientation on the duties, rules and provisions last August 11, 2016 conducted by the Center for Continuing Education.

The orientation aims to educate the new WMSU COS on the University Policies and the guidelines to better serve the public, to develop organizational and personal excellence and build a sense of integrity and commitment.

In welcoming the participants and guests present, CCE Director Dr. Claire A. Madrazo shared an old maxim that says “True men honor contracts.” She also reminded participants to keep an open mind and an open heart in the entirety of the orientation as it also aims to discuss legal concerns and virtues on how to be an effective public servant.

A talk on the Duties of the COS Administrative Personnel was shared by Ms Ma. Teresita J. Rodriguez, University Human Resource Management Officer. In line with the upcoming visit of the Civil Service Commission representatives for the University’s Prime HRM application, she shared her office’s function in the University-not just mere hiring and firing as others perceived.

She focused her talk on the functions, prohibitions, rights and privileges of the employees. She warned those who fond of cheating in terms of the attendance and time corruption. “Though our system is still imperfect, we should not cheat” said Ms Rodriguez.

She also discussed the benefits and privileges enjoyed once an employee gets an item or an entitled to a regular position in the University. “You can only enjoy these benefits once you are an eligible regular employee,” she emphasized.

A smile is said to be contagious as it is able to lighten up someone’s day and rapport trust and comfortability between the client and the public servant, Ms Rodriguez thus urges every employee to give a smile whenever doing transactions and to follow the provisions under the Anti-Red Tape Act (ARTA).
Matters regarding fiscal compensations and benefits were tackled by Ms Ma. Lourdes B. Alba during the second session of the seminar.

In her talk, she cleared out the reason why contract of service personnel are required to punch in and out upon arriving and leaving and are required to work eight hours a day, equivalent to 40 hours a week although not covered by the Civil Service Law. “Because you are not paid by piece of work, you are paid monthly. So you are required to log in and log out in accordance with the University policy,” said she. COS are subjected to no work, no pay policy. But in the insurgency of the service, COS may be requested to report beyond the 40 hours requirement.

As much as the University would like to give some COS positions, some are not Civil Service eligible therefore are not qualified to hold designations. Another factor, according to Ms Alba, is the limited number of items offered in the University.

In the afternoon, a talk on the rules and provisions for COS was conducted by the Director for Administration, Atty. Jules Christian D. Marcos. He emphasized that COS are not covered by the Civil Service Law, but by the Commission o Audit therefore COS are not entitled to any benefits enjoyed by the government employees such as the leave credits, the 13th month pay, Performance Based Bonus (PBB), the security of tenure and the benefits offered by the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). But salary differentials are given to COS in the end of the year as lump sum.

Violations of the University Rules and Policies and commission of any acts stipulated in the Revised Rules on Administrative Cases (RRACS) are grounds for the termination of the contract anytime. WMSU, as a Gender-Sensitive Community does not consider gender as a factor for termination as long as no immoral act is conducted in the workplace.

Vice President for Administration and Finance, Dr. Joselito D. Madroñal shared insights on improving customer services especially for those who are assigned in front row services offered by the University which includes the registrar, the accounting and assessment office.
In his discussion he accentuated that “it is not what you say, but how you say it” when dealing with people of different walks of life. Oftentimes, miscommunication happens because of the non-verbals- a simple rise in the tone of voice may induce a conflict. Sometimes, words or phrases such as “we will try”, “you have to” and “no” greatly irritate the customer.

Participants were also reminded of the Anti-Red Tape Act (ARTA) guidelines as the reporting of any violation is now more accessible to the customers and front line service personnel are now vulnerable to any report on the violation.

A workshop on identifying common problems in communication was also conducted through a message relay among five COS. Tokens of appreciation were given to the speakers right after their sharing and a posterity was taken right after the closing program.