Zamboanga City is known for its seaweed production-“agar-agar” which is a priority marine product of the country. Three highly valued macroalgal species, Eucheuma, Gracilaria, and Kappaphycus varieties locally known as agar-agar are generally utilized for seaweed farming and are commonly found along moderately wave exposed rocky intertidal zones in Zamboanga City Bay.

Along this development in Marine Science, Western Mindanao State University College of Science and Mathematics, Biology Department professor Dr. Roldan T. Echem presented a comprehensive research and awarded as finalist for Outstanding Creative Research on the “Improved Production Technology (Land-Based) of Highly Commercial Seaweeds as Alternative Livelihood” during the 2016 National Invention Contest and Exhibits last July 28-31, 2016 with the theme “Invention and Innovation for One Nation”.

His study focused on the common problems encountered by the seaweed farmers such as the decrease in the number of production of seaweeds due to anthropogenic impacts such as eutrophication, agricultural run-off, waste discharges and pollutants due to the occurrence of natural calamities such as strong typhoon, flood and climate change. His project provided a cultivation method in artificial conditions to increase mass production of three genera of seaweeds.

The project measuring 15m x 10m x 2m dimension water tank is constructed near the shore with transparent roofing to regulate the light intensity. The water tank holds 3,000 seed stocks of the three agar species. This tank was equipped with water pump, aerator and 100m cultivation nylon line. Three days after the planting of the agar, Nitrate or Orthophosphate was added. The growth rates of these seaweeds were monitored as the four parameters (salinity, pH, water movement and light intensity) were manipulated based on the requirement of the cultivation. Thirty to 40 days after, an estimated 30, 000 kg of healthy seaweeds was harvested, meeting the objective of the study.

NICE or the National Invention Contest and Exhibit is an annual event hosted by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through the Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI) is a response to the Republic Act No. 7459 otherwise known as “Inventors and Invention Incentives Act of the Philippines”, an act which provides assistance to the Filipino inventors. NICE is conducted to recognize the indispensability of the Filipino inventors in the development of the technological capabilities and in the landscape of national economic development.
The Filipino inventors’ ingenuity and creativity are harnessed through comprehensive and strategic technical and financial support for the development of their inventions/innovations as stipulated in RZ 7459. NICE encourages inventors so that they would use their inventive capability by competing for cash rewards and be recognized for other forms of assistance and promotional support. (Ella Cruz-PAO,WMSU)

For seventy five years, the Philippine Airlines (PAL) serves as the home in the sky for millions of Filipinos. PAL Express, PAL’s local counterpart has been known for its wholehearted services and heartfelt smiles, touching the lives and hearts of the Filipinos.

The airline is best known for its outstanding warm services and hospitable cabin crew-the prim, proper and stunning flight attendants. For the past years, in order to be part of the crew of choice, the hiring process takes place only at their main office located in Manila. “The trend in employment changes kasi so we have to adjust to better accommodate applicants form other cities and provinces,” says PAL Express Human Resource Assistant, Ana Corina T. Padilla. According to Padilla, the extensive hiring process usually takes a month, “since we invite applicants for Visayas and Mindanao, and it is a month-long process, sayang yung fare and other expenses so we decided na kame na rin yung lalapit sa applicants for their convenience,” she added.

In partnership with the Western Mindanao State University through the University Career and Placement Office, Guidance and Counseling Center, University Public Employment Service Office (PESO) and the WMSU Alumni Relations Office (WMSU-ARO), PAL Express conducted a one-day cabin crew hiring fair for Crimson studes and alumni.
During the opening program, PAL Express Line Administrator Mr. Kenneth Chester G. Cruz gave the orientation of the hiring and training procedure. In his talk he emphasized “in five years’ time, we’re not sure where and what we’ll be so let me somehow give you an idea kung anong pwedeng maging kayo” while sharing their experiences on their journey to belong to the crew of choice.

The screening process of around 142 registered applicants started with medical tests such as the biometrics and eye examination to assure if the applicants meet the required height (at least 5’6” for male and at least 5’3” for female) and vision (20/20 or not beyond 30/30). Those who didn’t meet the required biometrics then are not allowed to proceed to the impact interview.

The impact interview is crucial since the factors affecting the applicant’s luck are quite complicated. “We only do not consider the physical appearance alone, siyempre total package talaga yung tinitingnan namin for the flight attendant position. Aside from their physical attributes, we also look into their communication skills and customer service orientation,” said Padilla.

Two out of 91 interviewed applicants were able to pass the impact interview and proceeded to the executive panel interview as to where, the top three hiring executives screen the qualifiers. Inflight Services and Training Department Director Leonides V. Peña heads the extensive interview, looking deeper into the communication skills, confidence, commitment, and physical attributes-the body frame proportions. The applicant’s wit and first aid skills are also examined. Upon passing the executive panel cross examination, passers were subjected to written examination to which the result will be released in a month’s time.

In an interview during the event, Mr. Peña encourages the applicants to hold on to their dream as he disclosed “the first time I applied with the Philippine Airlines, I didn’t make it-I was turned down. I didn’t give up, I wanted to fight for my dream and on my second attempt, I was able to get hired and now I am already the Director of the cabin services.”

Through the screening event, according to Padilla, PAL Express does not only provide employment opportunities, they too establish partnership with schools and universities in the country for internship programs and on-the-job trainings. “Since most applicants are students, if ever they’re not yet prepared for the employment, we get them as interns para ma-expose na sila sa airline industry and upon graduation, they’re ready,” she explained.

According to Padilla, PAL Express would be honoured to join the University’s Job Fair conducted every February. “Since this event is concentrated only in recruiting flight attendants, we asked the University when their job fair will be-mas open kasi yon to other courses and other positions in our company.”

This is the first time an airline company partnered with the University to conduct a sole job hiring for cabin crew. The University hopes that this activity strengthens the link between WMSU and PAL Express. Mrs. Melva A. Villarta, OIC Director for University Career and Placement Office expressed the University’s sincerest gratitude for the partnership. “Indeed our graduating students and alumni are given the rarest opportunity to be interviewed and the chance to be part of your reputable airline industry as soon as they will be hired,” said she. (Ella Dee Cruz-PAO,WMSU)

Prof. Eulyn H. Tangalin, Assistant to the VP-RESEL, gave an inspirational message to the participants of the forum. She encouraged everyone to be optimistic when doing research.

“It is through research that we realize that we, as educators, are not only here to impart knowledge but also to generate new ones,” said Dr. Adrian P. Semorlan, College of Liberal Arts (CLA) Dean, as he welcomed the presenters and students to the 8th CLA Research Forum.

The conference, which was held at the Research Development and Evaluation Center (RDEC) Conference Room, last August 26, 2016, is part of RUPID’s (Research Utilization Publication and Information Dissemination) aim of disseminating research information from all the colleges in the University. Participated by students and faculty members from CLA, the forum provided a venue for presentation and discussion of different researches in the field of liberal arts.

Prof. Eulyn H. Tangalin, Assistant to the Vice President for Research, Extension Services and External Linkages (RESEL), encouraged everyone to be optimistic when doing research. “When doing research, do not think that it is difficult because it is will really become difficult for you,” she said. “Instead, always think positive, think that you can do it,” she further added.

RDEC Director Dr. Reynante E. Autida also provided the updates on WMSU’s research landscape. The director also showed the institutional researches and outsources grants for 2013-2015 from partner agencies like Department of Science and Technology (DOST), World Bank, Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) and others. He further highlighted the R&D agendas which will be the basis for programs and budget proposals for the succeeding years, to include: science and technology, education, social services and economy, peace and stability, gender equity and governance, economy and good governance.

A total of eight (8) papers were presented where seven (7) papers were from the faculty. The faculty researches are as follow: Form-Focused Instruction as Correlates to Lexical Process Among College Students by Justine Kay Rojonan; Academic Work Style as Correlated to Grammatical Competence Among College Students of Western Mindanao State University by Ma. Pilar T. Rosaldo; Social Science Teachers’ Cultural Competence and Senior Students’ Intercultural Sensitivity in Zamboanga City by Roel P. Borja; Ang Awiting-Bayan ng mga Badjao ng Taluksangay Ayon sa kanilang Kultura by Prof. Nena Abdurajak; Sources of Conflict, Level of Stress and Resolution Strategies of Middle Level Administrators in Higher Education Institution (HEIs) in Zamboanga City by Dr. Rodita C. Silva; Teachers Teaching Panitikan: Their Approaches and Problems as Basis for Administrative Intervention by Dr. Felixberto C. Labstilla; and Children and Young Adults; Sociolinguistic Evaluation on Native-Accented and Foreign-Accented Tausug Speakers by Dr. Fhadzralyn A. Karanain. The sole student paper entitled “Psychological Adjustments of Adolescents whose Fathers are in Polygynous Marital Relationship: A Phenomenological Study” was presented by Almujib S. Sakkam from Psychology Department.

Certificates of appreciation and recognition were awarded to the presenters and to the participants of the forum. Research forum is held monthly by college every academic year and it covers published and unpublished researches conducted by WMSU faculty and students. (Liezel M. Parreño, WMSU-PAO)

First Year AB History Students show off their costumes portraying the pre-hispanic era.

Ramen, a japanese soup dish, is one of the foods prepared by the students during the food exhibit.

Students who prepard South Asian Dishes to include Majaraja Curry of India and spicy fried rice.

Department of History and Social Studies of College of Liberal Arts led the university’s commemoration of the National Heroes’ Day through a heroes’ parade within the campus last August 30, 2016.

Students enrolled in History and Social Studies dressed as heroes, ancestors and prominent figures in Philippine history to honor those who have given much to the cause of freedom, justice, culture and our heritage. The activity is also part of the department’s “History Week” celebration.

“It is important to acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of our heroes,” said Prof. Ryan Biong, Head of Social Studies Department. The activity, which was first held last school year, was organized to set an example in reliving the greatness of our heroes who struggled and sacrificed their lives to free our country from oppression.
Also part of the activity is the food exhibit participated by the students held at the CLA mini stage last Aug. 31. The exhibit displayed different cuisines and traditional foods from different countries in South Asia like the ramen and okonomiyaki of Japan, tamriyya of Kuwait, tom yum soup of Thailand, Nasi Lemak of Malaysia, Bank Khoai Mi of Vietnam, Majaraja Curry of India.

The students said they are happy and proud to have a hands-on experience in cooking and preparing these foreign delicacies. Last year, the students prepared cuisines from different parts of the country. (Liezel M. Parreño, PAO)

“Today we made history in this Social Hall that has stood the test of time during the American regime 112 years ago where all important programs were held. And today we have JOY in our very own Western Mindanao State University,” says WMSU Prexy Dr. MIlabel Enriquez-Ho as she welcomes guests and participants in the series of journalism lectures conducted by 2015 Journalists of the Year (JOY) last August 25, 2016.

The event was made possible through PROBE Media Foundation, Inc. (PMFI) and Metrobank Foundation. As part of their responsibilities as JOY awardees, Marites D. Vitug (editor-at-large, Rappler), Nancy C. Carvajal

(Journalist, Philippine Daily Inquirer) and Howie G. Severino (Vice President & Anchor, GMA Network), are tasked to go to the different provinces and cities in the country to share their takeaways and personal tales as in bringing the truth to the open. “We have invited the 2015 JOY awardees to share their life stories as journalists with you, to tell you how they got their stories what the challenges were, what were the best parts, the worst parts and what were the rewards-not material rewards but their works of telling good stories,” says PMFI President Cheche Lazaro in her message shown via an audio-visual presentation.

The lecture series dubbed as “Shaping the Nation through Powerful Stories” aims to promote credible and responsible journalism to bring positive change in the society and providing citizens with necessary information and the right context for decision-making about their lives, their communities and the government.

It is said that a responsible journalist not only seeks to inform the public but even more important, he or she must ceaselessly put forth the truth the public needs to know. To be able to do so, a journalist must know the people’s sentiments and must have the nose for news. The first speaker marked the history of journalism as she unravels the political scandal happening in the country’s legislative arm. Nancy C. Carvajal, the bombshell of the “Pork Barrel Scam”- the alleged misuse of the Priority Development Assistance Fund by some members of the Philippine Congress.

As a former senior reporter of the PDI and one who have been a vanguard of truth for more than 20 years, Carvajal was able to develop her instinct on what constitutes a “big story”. “Right motivation and skills can realize any journalists’ dream to be able to produce stories that could not only shape the country, but also influence and change for the betterment of the future generation,” says Carvajal during her preliminaries of her lecture. She then gave practical advices in knowing if one’s story will make a huge impact in the society. “Our role is not to punish, but to bring to the attention of the authority the anomalies happening in our society,” explains Carvajal.

You’ll know when you have a good story, according to Carvajal, when it gives you an “AHA moment”, when you have an instinct that there is really something wrong in the community, may it be the governance, the leaders and others. “Then you can hone that…you can develop your nose for news if you want to be a good journalist. You should be observant of the things around you, when something struck you then something is there worth pursuing.”

She also advised aspirants to dig even deeper into details when someone tries to stop you from writing the story, because it is, according to her, is a story itself and respect the sanctity of your source’s privacy especially when the information provided is confidential. “When your source tells you that it’s off the record, then it is off the record,” says Carvajal. In addition, she also advises aspirants to always keep records or footages of interviews to serve as your protection when your source might deny you.
The second lecturer was a remarkable journalist whose books-the first of its kind journalist-authored books, unraveled the “inner workings” of the Philippine Supreme Court. As one who nurtures and fearlessly supports independent journalism, Libel cases did not; in anyway, stop her as she believes that she owes the truth to the people.

“Your loyalty is to your citizens,” says Rappler’s editor-at-large Marites D. Vitug. To be an effective vanguard of truth, one must put public interest first prior to personal interest says Vitug- the first core principle of responsible journalism.

According to her, journalists should also maintain independence from subjects covered as friendship is the worst form of vested interest as it may hinder the process of exposing the story. “When you cover a subject or an institution, dapat wala kang relationship na personal or even as a relative para hindi tayo ma-blame of being bias,” explains Vitug. She also encouraged future journalists to take time to explore covering courts and the judiciary although it may be less interesting than the other beats but members of the judiciary are one of the most powerful appointed members of the government-proving the old maxim “pens are mightier than swords”.

Completing the JOY 2015 awardees and lecturer of the event is the co-founder of the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ), a pioneer independent, nonprofit media agency that specializes in investigative reporting in Asia, and the Vice President and anchor of the GMA Network.

Although he is into writing, fate brought him into making documentaries-showing people the realities happening in the marginalized areas. One of his renowned documentaries, “Saplot” challenged viewers to imagine life without footwear, through his documentary, he even brought the public into the far flung area as to where having slippers is considered a luxury. His “thought-provoking” documentaries earned Howie and his team numerous prestigious awards and recognitions here and abroad.

As a responsible journalist, Howie believes that it is his responsibility to help define our identity, to show what we have accomplished and how far we need to go as a nation. He stands firm to be the voice of the powerless.

“The most important trait for being a good journalist is being a good person,” says Howie as he begins his lecture. “Journalism is imperfect but generally good people are attracted to the profession” he explains that there are a lot of things expected from journalists. “Kasama sa pagiging good journalist ay pagiging mabuting tao,” he emphasized.

As he lectures before a crowd of millennials, Howie encourages each and every one to use these advantages for the betterment and not only for personal selfish purposes. “For all your advantages now, na-eenjoy ko rin but I am more appreciative of the advantages we share in this day and age because I know how it felt not to have those advantages,” says Howie.

Basing on his life experiences as a person and as a journalist, he identified three things as to which the success and failure of our future depends on- our choices, our hard work and luck.
He emphasized that millennials enjoy a different kinds of freedom, political freedom, the freedom of the press and all. But on top of it all, according to him, millennials have the freedom to choose the kind of person you will be.

He also advised aspirants to forget passion and develop interest- contradicting the old maxim saying “develop your passion”. “At this stage in your life, forget passion. Sometimes it takes a long time, and sometimes people don’t feel it. But of you here have interests, so develop your interests, they will soon become your passion, it can become livelihoods.”

“Find good mentors and appreciate them” advised Howie as he shares his sincere gratitude to his former teachers. “Hindi natin na-aapreciate ang ating mga guro when we’re still in school,” says he. “I only began to appreciate the value of my teachers, the real value of my teachers and how much impact they made on the rest of my life after they were my teachers,” he added. He even disclosed that every World Teacher’s Day, he takes one of his favorite mentors out for lunch to remind them of how grateful he is having them as teachers.
Finding good collaborations is one of the topmost things a millennial should look into according to him. Because most of the time, journalists or even in other professions, we are required to work as a team. Television is unfair, says Severino, “kasi yung mga humaharap sa camera gets most of the credit and I think I’m mature enough to admit that why I am here is because of the credit in the documentaries I produced in the television. But Enggay Navarro (cameraman) is part of my big work for 20 years.”

The primary element of the television is images, one can produce documentaries without words but you can produce a documentary with just images. “Kaya para sa akin ang importante ay ang cameraman, hindi yung reporter, hindi yung writer.” Thus, in every award he receives he also invites Navarro to share the stage with him. Navarro is not just his colleague, Severino also considers him as his best friend.

In closing, he shared “wherever you are, wherever you go, make it a better place” because not all millennials in this generation have the same options as most of us have, according to him, it is in our hands to use the advantages to empower and do better. (Ella Dee Cruz-PAO,WMSU)

Newly crowned Mr. and Ms. WMSU 2016 Mr. Carl Louis Arañas and Ms. Hasmine Emanel with Mr. and Ms. WMSU 2015 Mr. Abdel Alhamm Ismael (extreme right) and Ms. Jessa Tuquib (extreme left)

Ms. WMSU 2015 Jessa Tuquib crowns Ms. Hasmine Emanel of ESU-Pagadian as this year’s Ms. WMSU. and Ms. Emanel was also awarded as Ms. Talent, Best in School Uniform and Ms. Smart.

The Dr. Juanito Bruno Gymnasium was invaded by the most glamorous and smart ladies and gentlemen of the Western Mindanao State University during the Search for Mr. and Ms. WMSU 2016 last September 3, 2016.

Mr. Carl Louis J. Arañas, a 4th year BS Nursing student, and Ms. Hasmine C. Emanel, a 3rd year BS Secondary Education major in Biology Science from the External Studies Unit (ESU)-Pagadian Campus beat other beauty hopefuls to rightfully claim the most prestigious title of being this year’s Mr. and Ms. WMSU 2016. They were chosen from a line-up of six pairs of candidates from various colleges who were judged in nine (9) categories. The finalists were given the same question during the Question and Answer portion. They were asked, “As a WMSU Student, how will set yourself apart from becoming great to just being good?”

“I could make myself great and to uphold positive principles WMSU advocates, which is believing in academic and sports, character excellence, as well as believing that we should not settle for just being good, we do not settle for less but we opt for the best,” said the newly crowned Ms. WMSU 2016 Hasmine Emanel.

On the other hand, the young gentleman from CN answered “Life is all about improvement. We must learn how to deal with our daily failures and mistakes in life. The greatness that we want to achieve will only become possible if we become a better person from our past failures. At the end of the day, best is not only about having good quality; it is also about how you become a better person from past failures. It’s not about the money, it’s not about the fame, it is not about the victory, it’s the knowledge and how you became a better person. Failure is just a road to success.”

Mr. Arañas was adjudged as Mr. Talent and Ms. Emanel was also awarded as Ms. Talent, Best in School Uniform and Ms. Smart.

Mr. Mark Arnold Santuyo and Ms. Rainalyn Capitle from College of Liberal Arts (CLA) won as 1st runners up. Santuyo was also awarded Best in Theme Costume, Best in Barong Filipino and Mr. Smart while Capitle garnered majority of the special awards in the female category. She was awarded Best in Theme Costume, Ms. Photogenic, Best in Playsuit, Best in Philippine Terno, Ms. Sungate Smile and Ms. Smart.

The second runners up were Mr. Christopher Dela Peña from College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) who was also awarded Best in School Uniform and Best in Short, and Ms. Mila May C. Montallana from College of Nursing.
Other special awards were awarded to Mr. Ivan Eros Toremotcha from College of Engineering and Technology (CET) as Mr. Photogenic and Mr. Sungate Smile and Mr. Meljun G. Dadag from ESU-Pagadian as Mr. Smart.

The Search for Mr. and Ms. WMSU 2016 is one of the highlights of the week-long WMSU Palaro 2016 that carries the theme “From GOOD to GREAT: A Celebration of Teamwork and Excellence through Sports”. This event was spearheaded by the Office of Culture, Theater and the Arts (OCTA). (Liezel M. Parreño, WMSU-PAO)

With a purpose to help save lives, Western Mindanao State University, headed by President Dr. Milabel Enriquez Ho, in partnership with District 1 City Councilor Rudy Lim held a bloodletting activity at the Sangguniang Panlungsod Session Hall last Sept. 9, 2016.

The charity event was conducted in coordination with Zamboanga City Blood Council, Federacion del Barangay Kagawads de Zamboanga (FEBARKAZA), Philippine Air Force Wing Reserved Command, Philippine National Red Cross Zamboanga City Chapter, Radio Agong and E-Media. This half-day event was participated by students, faculty and staff from WMSU, faculty members from different primary and secondary schools in the city, members of the Philippine Air Force, and public servants from different local offices.

Councilor Rudy Lim lauded the benevolent donors, “You are considered as heroes for serving as an instrument in saving others’ lives,” he said. “It’s good for our body to donate blood. It stimulates to produce blood cells,” said the councilor who regularly donates blood.

One student from WMSU-College of Liberal Arts, Sher-aini Sapii said that it was her first time to donate blood and she decided to join the cause to get away with her fear of donating. “I’m happy, too, that through this act I can help save lives in the future”, said the PolSci student.

Donating blood helps one in burning calories, having a good blood flow, reducing the risk of cancer, keeping your iron level stay balanced and preserves cardiovascular health. At the same time, you are given free wellness checkup which includes blood pressure, pulse, temperature and cholesterol screening.

While there are several physical benefits to donating blood, the most powerful health benefit is arguably in the psychological realm. Donating blood means that someone (or multiple people) somewhere will be getting the help they desperately need. The psychological health benefit you receive from knowing you’re helping others is just as helpful as the physical health benefit. (Liezel M. Parreño,PAO)

In consonance with the advocacies of Pres. Rodrigo R. Duterte’s administration to have a federal form of government in the country, Western Mindanao State University through the Political Science Department of College of Liberal Arts (CLA) hosted a forum on federalism at the WMSU Social Hall last September 1, 2016.
Asec. Epimaco V. Densing III, Assistant Secretary for Plans and Programs of Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), and Atty. Jose I. Lorena, Undersecretary of Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP) served as the keynote speakers during the half-day event which was attended by the university officials, faculty members and students, college students from other schools as well as stakeholders from the different societal sectors.

One of the priority programs of the Duterte Administration is the proposed shift from presidential unitary to parliamentary federal form of government. This is considered as a strategy to introduce real reforms and genuine change in our country for the good and benefit of the Filipinos.

Advocates of the forum shared their thoughts on the theme “The Future of Mindanao in a Federal System of Government” and enlightened the public on the benefits, opportunities and thrusts of the federalism type of government which was first proposed in 1982. They envisioned that federalism will bring not only economic growth but it will also be the key to finally achieve peace in war-torn Mindanao.

Pros and Cons of Federalism
Asec. Epimaco Densing explained that in a federal system of government, there will be decentralization and distribution of government powers –political and economic- to regional and local governments throughout the nation. “Mindanao will have a peaceful and happy life for its citizens. Mindanao will have a prosperous and very energetic environment in terms of economic activities,” he said. “Under the federal system, the shares of provinces, cities, municipalities, and barangays will be bigger than what is currently provided for under the Local Government Code,” he added.

Asec. Densing also explained that under a federal form of government, each state or region has its own discretion in managing its economy, natural resources, and law. Compared to the central government in Metro Manila, Densing said regional governments have a better grasp on their region’s various concerns. Greater independence would allow them to provide more appropriate solutions.

Atty. Jose Lorena also added that since Philippines is a multi-cultural and multi-ethnic society, regions have their own unique problems, situations, economics, cultural and social context. “Federalism allows these regions to create solutions to their own problems instead of Metro Manila addressing these concerns,” said the OPAPP undersecretary. “Federalism also allows the local states to have more power over funds and resources thus allowing them to retain more of their income and channel these funds towards their own development. They can spend the money on programs and policies they see fit without waiting for the national government’s go signal,” he added.
Atty. Lorena, who was born in Sulu, is certain that federalism is the solution to the Mindanao conflict. The creation of the state of Bangsamoro within a federalist system can address the concerns of separatists who crave more autonomy over the administration of Muslim Mindanao.

The advocates of federalism also assured the audience that in a federal system of government, all local leaders, including those part of political dynasties, become more accountable to their constituents. Local government will no longer have excuses for delays in projects and services unlike in the present situation, where delays are often blamed on bureaucracy in Manila. Federalism also encourages competition among local states. It will motivate leaders and its constituents to level up in terms of quality of life, economic development, progressive policies, and governance.

While there are advantages to federalism, there are also challenges and disadvantages to it. A federal system of government can lead to duplication of government and inefficient, over-lapping or contradictory policies in different parts of the country. Federalism may also lead to over-government that will result to corruption.
Federalism can lead to inequality between the states and lead to unhealthy competition and creating rivalries and promoting the regionalism that some say already challenges the sense of unity in the country. It could enflame hostilities between ethnic groups in the country. Federalism may not satisfy the separatists in Mindanao. It may not be enough for them. After all, the conflict continues despite the creation of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Asec. Densing admitted that shifting to federalism will be costly. It would entail billions of pesos to set up state governments and the delivery of state services. They are yet to discuss and formulate a tangible model of federalism in the country. (Liezel M. Parreño, WMSU-PAO)

Hotel and Restaurant Management (HRM) Students made the grand slam during the Regional Skills Competition of the 6th Annual Congress of the Council of Tourism and Hospitality Educators of Zamboanga Peninsula (CTHEZP) held in Dakak Beach Resort in Dapitan City last September 2-4,2016.

The WMSU team, headed by Dean and Team Leader Dr. Lucia M. Santos and Head of Department of Home Economics Prof. Maria Dolores J. Macrohon as assistant team leader, bested seven other competitors from different Higher Education Institutions in the region.

WMSU’s entry to the Fruit and Vegetable Carving Competition, by Mary Joy S. Pelin and Lyncea P. Columbres, bagged the second place.

Cathleiyah S. Cariaga and Ruby Claire M. Rono won third place in the table setting competition.

roud HRM Students, Daphne Vanice M. Perez and Nhiko Jay V. Ventura with coach Mr. Roderick G.Gonzales, show their creativity in Floral Arrangement. Their entry won third place.

Part of the 6th Annual Congress was a seminar with the theme “Strengthening  takeholders Collaboration and Partnership in Addressing Global Issues and Challenging in Tourism Industry” where Mrs. Teresita Pinili, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Program Specialist, served as the resource speaker.

A discussion about “The Role of Government, Industry, and Academe in Addressing Global Issues and Challenges in Tourism Industry” was given by Ms. Marilou G. Silorio, Senior Tourism Officer of Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 9, Dr. Lilibeth Aragon, Dean, Lyceum of the Philippines and Ms. Svet Lana J. De Leon, VP for Sales and Marketing, Romgarjal Group of Companies.

Another lecture on “Collaboration and Partnership: Strengthening Tourism and Hospital Industry” was discussed by Mr. Alexander Estacio, City Councilor of Dapitan, Dr. Mark Irvin C. Celis, National Secretary, Council of Hotel and Restaurant Educators of the Philippines (COHREP) Dr. Aleth Reyes, COHREP Board Member. Ms. Rogelie Catacutan, Miss Supranational Philippines 2015, also gave a lecture on “Developing Global Hospitality/Tourism Talents and Trends”.

One of the objectives of the Congress was to become a motivating program and bring together educators and students to interrelate, lead intellectual discourse in relation to hospitality and tourism industry and foster cultural exchange and fellowship among attendees.

Parallel to the mission of the University well-trained and development-oriented professionals, the College of Home Economics prepares its students to get ready for competitions and national competencies through its outcomes-based education and they are now set for the next congress.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

College of Home Economics (CHE) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Astoria Culinary and Hospitality Institute formalizing (ACHI) their partnership for the internship program of BS Hotel and Restaurant Management (HRM) Students.

University President Dr. Milabel Enriquez Ho, who led the signing, was joined by Vice President for Resource Generation Dr. Teresita Narvaez and CHE Dean Dr. Lucia with the representatives from Astoria, Mr. Danilo Molina, Provincial Director and Ms. Faith Bolinao, Special Account Executive. Other university officials were also present to witness the event. The signing of the MOA marks the official declaration of the renewed partnership between the University and ACHI.

ACHI is the training institution of Astoria Hotel that partners with schools and individuals to educate and mentor students to professional competency in the hospitality industry through rigorous hands-on trainings and coaching. The MOA covers voluntary On-the-Job Trainings on housekeeping for 3rd year students and front office operations for 4th year students and requires 180 and 240 hours, respectively.

“When a student or an individual underwent immersion in ACHI, they are guaranteed a job in hospitality management afterwards because of the thorough training they had,” said CHE Dean Dr. Santos. “ACHI already established a name internationally when it comes to hospitality and tourism management,” she said. “That’s why we are confident to renew our partnership with ACHI,” she added.

“Through this program, the students are provided training programs to enhance their service skills and technical knowhow in hotel and restaurant management. We can make sure that we are producing globally competent professionals that meet the standards in hospitality industry,” said the dean. In case the parents cannot afford to send their child to this practicum, the college gives the students a parallel proposal although with limitations.

A consultative meeting with Oceanlink Institute was also held to discuss possible onboard practicum for BS Home Economics Education on board superferry.

As part of its monitoring and quality control mechanism for researches, Research Development and Evaluation Center (RDEC) through the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension Services and External Linkages (OVP-RESEL) conducted the 40th Agency In-House Review last September 22-23, 2016 at the RDEC Conference Room.

Participated by officials under OVP-RESEL, research coordinators and researchers from different colleges, the 40th AIHR yielded a total of sixteen proposals under the following categories: Education; Health; Gender Equity; Science and Technology; and Social Services. The review was held to increase the number of researches conducted by the University and was based on the following criteria, as follows: originality and appropriateness of methodology; potential for the creation of new advancement of knowledge and evidence of benefit to the area covered by the research; provides solution to identified priority area/problems and issues in the region and national levels; anticipated outputs, outcomes, and impacts of the proposed research, including contribution to economy and social benefits; budget reasonableness and consistency with the proposed work plan; and presentation of research.

Dr. Chona Q. Sarmiento, Vice President-RESEL, in her welcome remarks encouraged the researches to work into evidenced-based researches. “We need to improve more on our basic applied and developmental studies that focus more on policy issue as a higher education institution. When we craft our research proposals, we make sure that there is a systematic analysis based on the dialog and ideas,” she added. Dr. Reynante E. Autida, RDEC Director, presented the R&D Agenda and Research Proposals for Outsourced Grants for 2016-2022.

Dr. Autida said that among the proposals presented, they were able to determine which are for outsource grants, however these will still need to undergo technical and ethics review. A proposal presented on “Disaster Risk Reduction Program for Zamboanga City Barangays in Response to the Anticipated “Big One” from Sulu and Cotabato Trenches and Act of Terrorism” by Arch. Domingo A. Abarro III, Dean, College of Architecture and Arch. Manolo L. Tatel, will also be presented to the Institutional Development and Innovation Grants for national vetting on Sept. 28, 2016.

The Panel of Evaluators is composed of Dr. Chona Q. Sarmiento, Dr. Reynante E. Autida, Prof. Swidin S. Husin, Research Utilization Publication and Information Dissemination (RUPID) Director, Prof. Rosalyn Echem, Gender Research and Resource Center (GRRC) Director, Prof. Norqueen T. Dumadaug, RDEC Assistant Director. (Liezel M. Parreño, WMSU-PAO)

Dr. Lourdes Filoteo, a faculty member of College of Science and Mathematics (CSM)-Chemistry Department and currently the Testing and Evaluation Center Director, presented her study in the 16th World Congress on Comparative Education Studies in Beijing Normal University in Beijing, China last Aug. 22-26, 2016. The study is entitled “Epistemological-Enhanced Instruction: A Meta-Thinking Approach to Teaching Chemistry”.

The study aims to determine if the students’ beliefs about concepts learned in chemistry would differ utilizing the meta-thinking approach to teaching chemistry compared to those exposed to the traditional method of teaching. This teaching approach involves pre-lecture demonstration, demonstration proper, post-demonstration lecture and evaluation. It is a student-led activity designed to enhance learning concepts in chemistry focusing on their knowledge beliefs through their active engagement in the learning process.

In this research, the students are made to reflect when required to justify and defend their own ideas and points-of-view. They have to express their intuitive ideas in an environment where nobody stands alone. Dr. Filoteo in her study concluded that this teaching approach enhanced students’ beliefs on concepts learned in chemistry.

Dr. Filoteo is proud that she was able to present her study in this conference. “It’s very nice to be able to participate and present in this conference because it will widen your perspective,” said the Director of Testing and Evaluation Center. “You can adapt their best practices and at the same time you can share your best practices with them and they adapt it, too,” she added.

Although it wasn’t the first time she presented a paper in the international arena, she was honored to be able to present and represent WMSU in this international conference especially that this happens only once in three years. (Liezel M. Parreño, WMSU-PAO)

As one who nurtured the College of Social Works and Community Development for more than a decade, Dean Aleyssa Bagian Abdulkarim is noted to be one of the resource speakers in the various Forums on Social Works here and abroad- the China-ASEAN Forum on Social Work being the latest.

Dean Abdulkarim, along with the National executive Director of the National Association for Social Work Education Inc., Philippines and a distinguished faculty of the University of the Philippines, Jowima Ang Reyes, were chosen to be keynote speakers of the said ASEAN forum held in Nanning, China last September 9-10, 2016.

The event aims to know the experiences, the opportunities and the countermeasures of the development of social work in the Philippines and the mission, role, experience and countermeasures of social work in the process of poverty relief to give the participants a glimpse of the history on the birth and development of the context of social work in the country. And for the Chinese government to have an idea on how the ASEAN countries do social work.

Social work in the Philippines is not far from the social work in the world. It aims to promote human rights, social justice and empowerment. “They were impressed by the presentation because they learned that the social work in the Philippines is already 69 years old and it is based on a law,” says the Dean.

Republic Act Number 4373 regulates the practice of Social Work and the operation of Social Work agencies in the Philippines and in the academe by virtue of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Memorandum Order (CMO) 11-2010, the implementation of the social work curriculum was strengthened. “And this is not implemented in other ASEAN countries,” she added.

During the discussion on her talk on the “Experiences, Opportunities and Countermeasures of the Development of Social Work in the Philippines”, the body was able to conclude that the social welfare program and services in the country and the clientele system [the programs and services rendered to the abused children, the persons with disabilities, the elderly, the poor, the marginalized], is the same with other ASEAN countries.

The forum also served as an avenue for the China Association of Social Work to identify and validate with ASEAN countries the common problems in term of human-induced and natural calamities. Upon enumerating the common social problems each country’s facing. And Dean Abdulkarim shared the country’s solution to these problems, citing the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or the so called 4Ps as an example in solving poverty. It is decided during the open forum that ASEAN countries should be connected and should have a common principle in social work, common goal and share a common curriculum according to the Dean.

Knowing the need to assist other ASEAN countries, CSWCD Dean, as the Press relations officer of the Philippine Association of Social Workers, will be involved in the crafting of the curriculum of other ASEAN countries since the social work curriculum in the country is well established and the Philippines tops the ASEAN countries in terms of social work education.

This is not the first time Dean Abdulkarim represented the country in international forums on social work. As early as 1997, she presented a research paper in Norway which tackled the Islamic Perspective on Family Planning. And her journey went on as her career as a social work educator.
Since she is already in her senior stage, the renowned social work educator plans to be involved in researches on elderly as she was greatly impressed with the services of the Chinese government to their elderly. According to her, she would like to look into it because in the Philippines, particularly in Zamboanga, the services rendered in the home for the elderly is very inadequate.

As she disclosed “My interest will be on the elderly and currently I’m doing some readings on elderly and I’ll do a paper on the Islamic perspective on handling the elderly kasi sa amin bawal man yung ilagay mo sa elderly center because as their offspring, it is your responsibility to pay forth and take good care of them at home. Hindi appropriate yung magkaroon ng center for the elderly sa mga Muslim.”

The said event was fully hosted by the Ministry of Civil Affairs of the People’s Republic of China and the People’s Government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, organized by the Department of Civil Affairs of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and sponsored by the China-ASEAN Secretariat. (Ella Dee Cruz, WMSU-PAO)

“Our goal is not to compete but to complement” says University newly appointed Special Assistant to the President on Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Dr. Marilou Elago during a recent interview on her new designation effective July 2, 2016.

The concept of having a focal person on PPP is not new to the University says Dr. Elago. As in previews years, the College of Public Administration and Development Studies through Dr. Vivian Molina, Director for Local Governance, was able to rapport agreement with the Public-Private Partnership Center in Manila for a possible training on Build Operate and Transfer (BOT).

The appointment of the University’s PPP is in accordance with the mandate of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to the academic institutions as to where the appointed PPP shall be the focal person responsible for nurturing the established partnership of the University with the external linkages and bridging new links with the private sectors and the local government unit for mutual development projects.

Inspired by her new designation, Dr. Elago commits to take over from Dr. Molina. “The University’s partnership with the external linkages in the previous years has been very good,” says the newly appointed PPP. And according to her, these established partnerships only need to be strengthened and further nurtured.
Still adjusting in juggling two important designations in the University, Dr. Elago stands firm in saying that she is in parallel with the Prexy’s goal for the improvement and to realize a bigger, better-located campus in the coming future- the institutions answer to the call for the decentralization of the district and a mitigating procedure to Climate Change. “We cannot stop it, we can only adopt it”, says she.

“PPP is not just about soft projects,” she disclosed, “the University is looking at huge infrastructures in partnership with the private sectors”. “SUCs alone, with the LGUs, we cannot have that hard project that we envision. It is only when we partner with the private sectors who has what it takes to build the new WMSU,” explains she.

To be able to accumulate grants from the external linkages, the University should be able to present the crème of the crop proposal since the partnership is proposal-driven.

Not disregarding the threats in the realization of the University’s visions in the years to come, the newly appointed PPP is positive that these plans are feasible through the efforts of her office and the Office of the University President and other partner external linkages.

Renzley Rodney S. Fernandez and Risselle B. Edullantes, 5th year Civil Engineering students of this University landed 1st and 2nd placers in the recently concluded 35th National Civil Engineering Students Quiz (NCESQ) Regional Level held at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Conference Room last September 17, 2016.

The quizbowl, according to participants, aims to determine the top Civil Engineering Schools in the Region who will represent Region IX in the upcoming 35th National Civil Engineering Student Quiz scheduled November 17-19 in Davao City.

Prior to the regional grandslam, CE studes were subjected to in-campus elimination through the supervisions of Engr. Czarina Adelene J. Aquino and Engr. Ulmen Riff L. Circulado to allot ample preparation time for qualifiers. These two studes along with Harold T. Quilang topped the rest. “And their plan worked perfectly that the Western Mindanao State University- Civil Engineering Department dominated the 1st and 2nd place in the recent Regional Quizbowl,” says Rodney Fernandez, NCESQ 1st placer.

More than passing all their 5th year subjects and be able to march on 2017, winners are also into putting forth their knowledge earned to their classmates and the lower years. NCESQ 2nd placer Risselle Edullantes disclosed “I am planning to partake the knowledge that I have learned in my department to my fellow CET students through peer tutorial. I consider these knowledge and experience I have gained as blessings from my hardworking and dedicated professors, and that I believe every blessing is more appreciated when shared, applied and passed from generation to generation. “

The three participants greatly thank their coaches, their department and the college for their outmost support all throughout their journey. The winners are currently preparing for the upcoming national even and the University is giving its full support in this endeavor. (Ella Dee Cruz, WMSU-PAO)

WMSU Prexy Dr. Milabel E. Ho awards a certificate of recognition to one of the retirees, former VP for RESEL Dr. Roberto B. Torres

WMSU officials together with the 40 years loyalty awardees in a posterity shot.

Dr. Chona Q. Sarmiento, VP for RESEL, and Ms Ma. Teresita Rodriguez, HRMO, award a certificate of recognition to Dr. Roberto M. Sala, Dean College of Engineering and Technology. Dr. Sala is one of the 15 years of service awardees.

The Western Mindanao State University commended 104 WMSU loyalty awardees including retirees during a simple celebration held on September 30, 2016 at the WMSU Social Hall.

The event was held in line with the celebration of the 116th Anniversary of the Philippine Civil Service which carries the theme “Sigaw ng Lingkod Bayani: Malasakit Para sa Taumbayan, Kapwa Kawani, at Kalikasan”.

The honored speaker of the fitting ceremony was Ma. Sarah L. Amores-Batoy, CPA, Officer-In-charge Chief Human Resource Specialist, Human Resource Department, Civil Service Commission (CSC) Region IX. She said that public servants are meant to instill compassion with action for the health, the environment, other public servants, and the Filipino public who are the clients of the government offices. “As public servants, we should also promote, showcase and celebrate heroism in public service,” the guest speaker said. She encouraged the government servants to “serve the public with a heart”. She also acknowledged that it was in the Social Hall where the maiden recognition day for public servants was held.

Mrs. Batoy further urged WMSU honorees that as state workers, we should be worthy of the seal “Tatak Lingkod Bayani” by shunning mediocrity and upholding excellence in what we do and how we act in the workplace. She inspired the public servants to “give the best version of yourself when serving the public; to show genuine care towards our fellow civil servants; and being mindful of the environment. “We can be a Lingkod Bayani in our own rights, and we can influence our fellow civil servants to be a Lingkod Bayani,” she emphasized.

University President Dr. Milabel Enriquez Ho also congratulated and thanked the honorees for their service to the university. “All of us have contributed to the success of where WMSU is,” she said. She also encouraged everyone to be committed and dedicated to public service.

Awardees were given certificates and cash gifts and those who were in public service for 30, 35 and 40 years were awarded wrist watches, rings and pendants, respectively.

Dr. Jhamie Tetz I. Mateo, Education Supervisor II and the Information Technology Education of CHED- IX served as the speaker. This seminar-workshop on the Synchronization of Information Technology Education Curricula using CMO 25 series of 2015 was attended by the faculty of Institute of Computer Studies (ICS) as well as the different External Studies Units offering BS Computer Science.

The Institute of Computer Studies in partnership with the External Studies Unit conducted a Seminar-Workshop and Writeshop for the Synchronization of Information Technology Education Curricula using CMO 25 series of 2015 last October 13-14, 2016 at the College of Engineering and Technology AVR.

Commission on Higher Education Memorandum Order (CMO) 25 series of 2015 implements the shift to learning competency-based standards or outcomes-based education. This is also in accordance to Republic Act (RA) No. 7722, otherwise known as “Higher Education Act of 1994”. It specifies the core competencies expected of graduates of Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS), Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT), and Bachelor of Science in Information Systems (BSIS). CHED recognizes the need to be responsive to the current needs of the country when it comes to advancement and development in the field of computing. CMO 25, s. 2015 is essential in developing and strengthening the country’s computing technology to be at par globally.

Dr. Jhamie Tetz I. Mateo, Education Supervisor II and the Information Technology Education of CHED- IX served as the speaker. She conducted a writeshop for WMSU System ICT Development Program towards Center of Development-Excellence Application for 2018. She discussed the four criteria used by CHED in evaluating and selecting of centers, to wit: instructional quality (45%); research and publication (30%); extension and linkages (20%); and institutional qualifications (5%).

She emphasized the roles and responsibilities of a COE/COD such as acting as role models/leaders in the local, regional and national community; sustain and enhance research capabilities; upgrade professional or research graduate programs; undertake other activities/projects necessary in developing quality education; and provide assistance to agencies/institutions within its geographical area of coverage. She also discussed how the Institute can design curricula to suit its own context and missions provided that it can demonstrate that the same leads to the attainment of the required minimum set of outcomes, albeit by a different route.

The seminar-workshop was attended by the faculty of Institute of Computer Studies (ICS) as well as the different External Studies Units offering BS Computer Science. This activity was held in coordination with the Center for Continuing Education.

The Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) in coordination with the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) will host the ZamPen Native Chicken FIESTA on November 22-23, 2016 at the KCC Mall de Zamboanga.

The event, which banners the theme “Manok ZamPen: Livelihood Option for Every JUAN in the Region”, is also in partnership with the Western Mindanao Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources, Research and Development Consortium (WESMAARRDEC) and Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Unit IX (DA-RFU IX). This aims to promote Zamboanga Peninsula’s very own native chicken through technology matching, product promotion, and stakeholders’ forum in order to improve its visibility and marketability both in the local and international fronts.

Different activities are lined up as part of the event, including a media conference at 11:00AM, science and technology business forums in the afternoon of November 22; photo and poster making contests, technology and business matching consultation, and viewing of products and exhibits on November 23 at the Acer activity area, Second Floor of the KCC Mall.

WMSU, as one of the implementing agency of the Native Chicken Program funded by PCAARRD, has developed a sustainable science and technology or S&T-based options to native chicken improvement and profitable utilization for rural farmers in Region 9 through development of technologies on breeding and selection, generation of pricing and marketing information and policy recommendation for the enhancement of native chicken productivity and production efficiency. The native chicken meat has always been preferred by consumers over that of commercial chickens due to its unique taste and distinct flavor, presence of nutraceutical compounds, and lower fat content.

The program promotes the ZamPen Native Chicken vantage point to the region on the concept of Farms and Industry Encounters through the Science and Technology Agenda (FIESTA). This will promote the native chicken industry capitalizing on its benefits and opportunities for everyone.