Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho, WMSU President

WMSU President, Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho (7th from left) with some WMSU officials and administrative personnel.

Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho, WSMU President

Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho celebrated her 3rd year as Western Mindanao State University’s President last Friday, April 24, 2015, at the WMSU Social Hall.

A thanksgiving mass was offered in the morning which was attended both by administrative officials, faculty and students and was presided by Claret School of Zamboanga Director, Fr. Mauricio Ulep CMF.

In reference to Dr. Ho’s tireless efforts and performance, Fr. Ulep said, “when we do our mission, there should be no rooms and spaces for complains. And for us to move forward, we have to move together with a sense of mission.”

Dr. Ho took the opportunity to thank the Almighty for the fruitful three years that passed and for giving her sound mind and body for her to be able to perform her duties and responsibilities as the University President.

She also thanked the entire WMSU community for their dedication and hard work and the support they have given her for the last three years. She expressed optimism that the University will soon rip the fruits of their collective efforts.

The dynamism of WMSU President is manifested through her constant involvement in various projects. Recently, she went to Manila to present the status of a project to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Governing Council and attend a meeting at the Philippine Council for Agricultural, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) at Los Baños in Laguna. In addition, she went to Halal Science Center at Chulalongkorn University in Thailand last April 13-18 to benchmark on Halal food processing in line with WMSU College of Home Economics’ new plans for the Nutrition & Dietetics program.

(Juseph Elas – PAO, WMSU)

Mr. Mario R. Obra, JR., Ed.D giving the project rationale during the seminar-workshop.

Mr. Kent Adnil Lao giving talk about introduction to quality management system and documentation processes.

WMSU personnel busy with their hands-on activity during the QMS-ISO workshop-training.

Participants during the QMS-ISO seminar-workshop.

Prof. Claro Potenciano recapitulating the day’s inputs during the QMS-ISO seminar-workshop.

The International Relations Office (IRO) of the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), a newly-founded office under the Research, Extension Services and External Linkages (RESEL) department conducted its first ever Quality Management System-ISO 9001:2008 Seminar-Workshop on Wednesday, April 15.

Held at the lobby of the Executive Building, Dr. Mario R. Obra, Jr., director of the IRO spearheaded the event with the help of the whole ISO team consisted of Prof. Claro Potenciano, Mrs. Dezza Mohammad, Prof. Leila Benito, Mr. Kent Adnil Lao, Engr. Oscar Sicat, Mrs. Erlinda Macaso and Ms. Ere Lee Salang.

Quality Management System (QMS) is a collection of processes, policies, procedures and resources which are needed to achieve quality management in an organization. Meanwhile, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) deals with the requirements that organizations wishing to meet the standards need.

ISO 9001:2008 is used by any organization, large or small, regardless of its field of activity. In fact it is implemented by over one million companies and organizations in over 170 countries.

In effect, QMS-ISO 9001:2008 results to organization’s effective and efficient operation, enhances marketing, improvement of employee motivation, awareness and morale, reduced waste and increased productivity among others.
The seminar-workshop was held in preparation for the university’s ISO accreditation which is done by third party body. The university is gearing towards internationalization of all programs and standards in sync with the ASEAN Integration 2015.

(Juseph Elas – PAO, WMSU)

Submit your best interpretation of the theme by creating an original artwork and you could win cash prizes plus certificates and your artwork featured in the WMSU 2016 calendar and postcards!
Applicants should submit an originally designed artwork that includes you college’s contribution to WMSU’s heritage and history on a 1/8 sized illustration board and must be in landscape orientation. It can be in traditional mediums such as oil, watercolor. Charcoal, pen and ink or modern digital graphics.

WMSU ART CONTEST 2015 MECHANICS

1. Individuals must read the Terms and Conditions/Mechanics of this promotion before participating in the contest.

2. All submitted entries shall become the property of WMSU-Public Affairs Office and shall have full ownership rights over the submitted entries. The WMSU-Public Affairs Office has the rights to use or publish all submitted materials (design, text and photographs) under their discretion to promote the program, publicize the activities of WMSU, and etc.

3. Contest is from June 8 – July 3, 2015. Submission of entries will be accepted only until July 3, 2015.

4. Bonafide students of Western Mindanao State University are eligible to join.

5. Submit your artwork personally at the WMSU-Public Affairs Office, 2nd floor, Executive Building, WMSU, along with your entry title, your first and last name and other information.

6. You may use traditional mediums such as oil, watercolor, charcoal, pen and ink or modern digital graphics. We discourage including text in the artwork.

7. Only one entry per participant. All entries will be screened by our moderators.

8. Artwork should be contestant’s Original design/concept. Any artwork that is previously used or owned by any other individual/organization is not allowed. Every submission will be screened and researched by the WMSU-PAO team. Also, please refrain from using iconic characters, bands, logos, celebrities, etc. in your entry.

9. During screening, WMSU has the rights not to post entries from the gallery that do not follow the guidelines set. IF entry does not meet ALL the requirements, it will be disapproved and the participant will be informed why the entry was not approved.

10. Winners will be judged according to the following criteria:

11. Judging of winners will be held during the 2015 WMSU kapihan with press in time with the anniversary on July, 2015.

12. Winners will received cash prizes and a certificate of recognition. 12 consolation prizes worth Php 500.00 will also be awarded. The winning designs will also be put into production as part of the WMSU 2016 calendar.

13. The winners will be notified through phone and e-mail.

14. You can email paowmsu@yahoo.comn or call (+991) 1040 loc. 1101 or visit the WMSU Public Affairs Office at the Second floor of the Executive Building.

Effective first semester of school year 2015-2016, the Western Mindanao State University officially implements Memorandum Order 000441 series of 2015 otherwise known as the “No Styrofoam, No Plastic, and No Carbonated Drinks” policy of this University.

The University totally bans the selling of any soft drinks and carbonated drinks within the campus and prohibits the use of plastic and Styrofoam in any forms. This order does not only concern the store owners but also the students, faculty and parents.

The Memorandum Order is in line with the Senate House Bill number 40201 or the Healthy Beverage Options Act of 2014 prohibiting the sale of carbonated drinks in schools and House Bill number 2676,an act prohibiting the use of Styrofoam and other synthetic materials that are harmful to the environment in all food service establishments in all educational institutions and for other purposes.

The Healthy Beverage Options Act of 2014 does not only ban soft drinks but also punches, iced teas and fruit drinks with less 50 % real fruit juice and drinks containing caffeine excluding low-fat or fat-free chocolate milk. The bill also requires the schools to include information drive against the harmful effects of consuming unhealthy food and drinks in the curriculum.

In the same vein, the House Bill order 2676 seeks to promote a clean and green environment by minimizing the use of ecologically harmful synthetic materials, components, ingredients or packaging of consumer products. Plastics and styrofoams are included in the topmost solid wastes that greatly contribute to the climate change problem we are facing today.

Existing contracts on the sale of existing soft drinks in the University are no longer renewable upon expiration.–(Ella Dee Cruz- PAO, WMSU)

In order to enhance the quality of Nursing education and the faculty’s teaching competence, the Western Mindanao State of University College of Nursing in collaboration with the Center for Continuing Education initiated a live-in enrichment seminar workshop for the College of Nursing Faculty last May 29-30, 2015 at the Zamboanga Ecozone Freeport.

The 2-day seminar workshop delved into Nursing pedagogical methods, contemporary trends and issues. Six presenters talked on significant Nursing topics for research.

Prof. Filomena G. Demoni, RN, MN and Prof. Clement P. Marraon, RN, MAN discussed the “Emotional Intelligence vis-a’-vis Clinical Performance Among Nursing Students in WMSU”. The study wants to determine the nursing students’ level of clinical performance as to physical care, psychological care and the significant relationship between the nursing student’s level of emotional intelligence and their level of clinical performance.

“The Accessibility and Availability of Quality Health Services among the Elderly in Zamboanga City” is a research presented by the Dean of the College of Nursing, Dr. Nursia M. Barjose. One of the objectives of this study is to explore the barriers and difficulties encountered by the elderly in accessing quality health services.

Dr. Mary Joselyn C. Biong, Associate Dean of the College of Nursing presented “Multiple Intelligences among CN Graduate Students”. One of the objectives includes profiling of multiple intelligences in the graduate program that will significantly impact teaching and learning.

Furthermore, a research proposal on finding out why an elderly man who seemingly lives a normal life commits sexual offenses was proposed by Ms. Paksah B. Manga and Ms. Maria Socorro C. Domingo. The proposed study entitled “Adult Males Behind Bars: A Live Experience” focuses on elderly sex offenders accused of molestation at a later stage in life.

Prof. Hashim N. Alawi Jr., RN, MAN presented a proposal “Tracer Study of BSN Graduates of the Western Mindanao State University from 2000-2012: An Analysis” to determine the relevance, quality, and usefulness of the education and training based on the graduates’ perspectives.

Equally crucial is a topic proposed by Prof. Antonio D. Patino and Prof. Miriam Kanti on “Vulnerability and Competency Assessment as Basis for Disaster Preparedness and Response” to equip Nursing Faculty and students with skills in Disaster Management.

The seminar workshop is intended to generate more challenging research topics and stir the culture of research to invite more researchers in the field of Nursing.

His Royal Highness Sultan Ibrahim Bahjin Shakirullah III, M. D. Al- Haj. with Voltaire Gonzales and other guests in the ceremony

one of the honorees, Prof. Ali T. Yacub, Al-haj with other guests in the ceremony

wmsu president, dr. milabel enriquez-ho together with the vice president for academic affairs hands in the plaque of appreciation to His Royal Highness Sultan Ibrahim Bahjin Shakirullah III, M. D. Al- Haj.

Western Mindanao State University honored four former WMSU officials during its culminating program of its 111th Founding Anniversary & Commemorating Ceremony of its 10th Anniversary as a Royal University last July 21, 2015 held at the said University.

The honorees were: WMSU former President, Dr. Eldigario D. Gonzales, represented by his son, Mr. Voltaire Gonzales, former Vice President for Research and Extension Development, Prof. Clemencio M. Bascar, Public Affairs Office former director, Prof. Ali T. Yacub, Al-Hadz, and Prof. Emmanual Mangubat who was represented by his daughter, Ms. Joyce Mangubat.

These honorees have been one of the major players in the Royal Proclamation and had also shared their unselfish and meritorious contribution to the cause.

Also present in the event was the Sultan Muazzalam, His Royal Highness Sultan Ibrahim Bahjin Shakirullah III, M. D. Al- Haj.

Through the University’s Board Resolution No. 111 series of 2005 and the adopted resolution of the Rumah Bichara (Legislative Body) of the Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo thus WMSU was given the Honorific Title as a “Royal University”.

During the afternoon of the same day, a conference and conferment ceremony dubbed as “Towards Quality Education and Excellent Educators of the World” was held at the College of Teacher Education Normal Hall.

The Royal Institute, represented by the President of the Royal Institution Philippines Dr. Helen S. Molano together with the President of the University Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho facilitated the awarding of the certificate of appreciation to the guest speaker Dr. Samuel M. Salvador followed by the awarding of certificates and pinning of the fellows facilitated by the Chairman Emeritus of the Royal Institution, Dr. Ang Thian Soo.

The Awarding of the Honorees and the Conferment Ceremony was led by the University’s President Dr. Milabel Enriquez- Ho, and its three Vice Presidents; Vice President for Planning, Administration and Finance, Dr. Ederlinda M. Fernandez, Vice President for Research Extension Service and External Linkages, Dr. Roberto B. Torres, and the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena. (Ella Dee Cruz-PAO, WMSU)

Two of the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP) awardees recognized by the RFM foundation for 2015 are students of the Western Mindanao State University. They were awarded last July 30, 2015 at the Heroes Hall Malacańang Palace, Manila.

“Learning, Leading and Serving for life”, is RFM Food Corporation’s tagline which embodies the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP) search for excellent students who are potential leaders of the country. Out of the 30 who were initially short listed ten were chosen to have met the stringent criteria for the TOSP. Ms. Fharnieza Mohammad, a BS Biology major of the College of Science and Mathematics and Mr. Khenn Arquiza, an AB Political Science student of the College of Liberal Arts of WMSU have exceptionally proven their deep sense of commitment to superior academic performance, servant leadership and social responsibility. All these qualities are anchored on good moral values they have exemplified throughout their academic and socio-civic involvements as students.

Dr. Milabel Enriquez Ho, WMSU president received the honor accorded to the Western Mindanao State University for having fully supported and nurtured the students ‘development as well as undertakings. The school officials and faculty are also given recognition for deeply inculcating positive values in their students.

The TOSP is founded by businessman Jose Conception Jr. while he was still publishing Student Life Magazine. In his desire to honor students who are exemplars and leaders in their own academic fields and in their contributions to society, TOSP was established on June 19, 1961 during the 100th birthday of Dr. Jose Rizal. The search is held annually.

The other eight awardees that have been recognized as TOSP awardees for 2015 and their respective schools are: Ma. Nerissa Nicolas of Dr. Yangas Colleges Inc., Adriel Gamier Sanchez of the University of San Jose Recoletos, Gregg Louise tolentino of De La Salle – Manila, Ryan Carl Yu of Ateneo de Manila, Apolinario Bagano Jr. of Benguet State University, Marie Stephanie Gana of Far Easter University, Lynrose Jane Genon of Mindanao State University-Iligan City, and Raphael Aaron Letaba of the University of the Philippines. (PAO-WMSU)

(L-R) World Bank Group-KDC Representatives, Justine E. Letargo, Online Communication Officer and Loida V. Faustino, Information Assistant of the Information and Management Services during their respective presentations.

World Bank Group- KDC Representatives Loida V. Faustino and Justine E. Letargo together with the University President Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho and other University Officials in the midst of the discussions on the enhanced KDC MOA

To further strengthen the existing Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Western Mindanao State University and the World Bank Group on the Knowledge for Development Center (KDC), the World Bank Group through its representatives Loida V. Faustino, Information Assistant of the Information and Management Services and Justine E. Letargo, Online Communication Officer met with Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho, WMSU Prexy together with the University Officials to discuss significant changes on the Agreement.

The University’s current MOA as a Knowledge for Development Center (KDC) will soon be reestablished as a Knowledge for Development Community. The enhanced provisions in the new MOA state that WMSU shall not just promote knowledge sharing but also citizen engagement and it will also provide venue for KDC activities without due charges.

The Knowledge for Development Community aims to: (1) Be a Network of learning institutions, acting collectively and in partnership with the World Bank, knowledge sharing is tool for development. (2) Establish a proactive and dynamic resource center committed to creating, sharing and applying knowledge for development. (3) And to serve as a hub for consultation and dialogue, a catalyst for innovations and knowledge sharing and a change agent for transformational leadership and good governance.

KDCs, according to Ms. Letargo, are schools, universities, policy and research institutions, non-government organizations in the Philippines that promote knowledge sharing about development issues and interventions, in partnership with the World Bank.

Some of the KDCs in the Philippines are the following: (1) University of the Philippines Diliman School of Economics in Quezon City, (2) Philippine Institute for Development Studies in Makati City, (3) National Economic and Development Authority in Pasig City, (4) Asian Institute of Management in Makati, (5) DLSU-Jesse Robredo Institute of Governance, (6) House of Representatives- Congressional Policy and Budget Research Department, (7) University of the Philippines Los Baños, Laguna, (8) Palawan State University, (9) Siliman University in Dumaguete, (10) Saint Paul University Philippines in Tuguegarao, (11) Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation, (12) Ateneo de Naga University, (13) Central Phillipine University in Iloilo City, (14) University of San Carlos, (15) Notre Dame University in Cotabato City and (16) the Xavier University in Cagayan de Oro.

According to the former President, Bob Zoellick, in his speech delivered in Georgetown University, “Today the Bank remains the largest single source of development knowledge. But knowledge must be opened to all…” based on this premise, the WBG provides more access to Information and Open Development. This integrated service allows the public to view documents and reports of the WBG through the internet.

The World Bank Group welcomes opportunities to explain its work to the widest audience possible. It further recognizes its obligation to protect the confidentiality of certain information. Exact date on the MOA re-signing is slated sometime in September 2015. (Ella Cruz-PAO, WMSU)

16 students coming from the different colleges of Western Mindanao State University won major and special awards in consonance with an art competition held during the 111th anniversary of the WMSU last July 21, 2015.

The theme entitled My WMSU; preserving a century of excellence through art served as an inspiration to the contestants in depicting the University particularly the contribution of their respective colleges in promoting excellence in their respective fields of discipline.

An art piece by a second year student from Architecture, Mr. Clarence M. Dabasol with the winning piece entitled “WMSU’s Excellence shining through 111 years” garnered the first place. His art work is an elaborate depiction of the evolving leadership through the years where the artist is able to give a detailed illustration of WMSU’s rise with the use of mixed media like oil pastel, water color, pen and ink and a cut-out of the WMSU seal.

Miss Jeanamae A. Francisco, a second year student of the Bachelor of Science in Accountancy won the second place with her piece entitled “Enlightening through Excellence” using Acrylic paint and charcoal painting. Her piece symbolized the fields of Accountancy and Economics as essential components of the society’s progress. Specifically highlighted in the art work is how WMSU, through its leaders, have contributed to the economic stability of the Region.

An art piece entitled “Enculturation” by Mr. Jerry James C. Deran of the College of Teacher Education won the third place. His art work portrays how acquisition of excellence through education helps people in preserving its culture from generation to generation. This is how WMSU is depicted as an academic institution in Western Mindanao. He used Acrylic as medium on canvas.

The rest of the winners who got the consolation prize are the following: (1) Emmeldon O. Pagador (BSCE-V) (2) Ariel L. Carino (BSCE-IV) (3) Christell Joy P. Tarro (BS Acc-III) (4) Rafik A. Ismael (Gen. Eng’g 1G) (5) Jalali M.Ysmael (BS- Arch-IV) (6) Mohammad Nur S. Abdurahman (BS Arch-V) (7) Omar Alpasain (BSCE) (8) Lucky Vincent I. Morales (BSN-II) (9) Eric Anton D. Toledo (Gen.Eng’g) (10) Rachele G. Tura (BS Chem-III) (11) Gladys A. Saavedra (BEED-III) (12) Mark Vincent A. Balboa (BEED-IV) (13) Romeo J. Ramirez (BS Arch-II)

The undertaking is an initiative of the Public Affairs Office under auspices of the Office of the President.

CLA warriors merrily endure the heat during the opening program of the CLA fest.

Accountancy studes lift up their symbolic props with pride during the kick off parade around the University field.

College of Liberal Arts personified “Strength in Unity amidst Diversity” as cheers and vivacity flooded the WMSU atmosphere during the launching of the College Fest with a short parade around the University this morning.
This year’s fest theme is patterned after the Game of Thrones Series which is, according to the College Mayor, Mr. Orly Marie Reyes, the CLA Student Board best represents the students’ aim to succeed the iron throne, to best embody the title as “The Home of the Champions” and it is best represented by its very students who gives pride to their respective courses and departments.

“Just like in the Game of Thrones, we believe that we defend and protect our throne as champions and we should prove our worthiness in taking what is rightfully ours, may it be the honor, the greatness and even the rightful throne inside WMSU,” says Mr. Reyes as he explains the relevance of the theme to its college.

“We all aspire for the iron throne, we all aspire for the greatness, but it is the in between that matters most and how much we are willing to sacrifice to achieve our goals,” says Mr. Reyes. And he also emphasized that the college has proven their title everyday by giving champions to the University not only in the local scene but also nationwide and even abroad.

Asked for any message to the CLA Warriors, he bravely said “Push lang natin hanggang sa third day!”
This event is made possible through the help of the following: (1) Orly Marie Reyes, (2) Arthur Joshua Rodriguez, (3) Jap Sabtal, (4) Chezka Dawne Gregorio, (5) Mon Claire Hojilla, (6) Benhar Iribani, (7) Zericho Timbreza, (8) Ralph Russel Mendoza, (9) Selina Tery Ann Regino, (10) Jimraida Masihul, (11) Keith Guerero, (12) Nova Jeane Descalzo, (13) Jessa Tuquib, (14) Alice Dizon, (15) Aubrey Francisco and (16) Isabella Entoma.

He expressed his deep gratitude to the students of the College of Liberal Arts for giving him their vote of confidence to be the CLA’s first ever mayor.
(Ella Dee Cruz-PAO,WMSU)

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A two-day workshop on “Developing Students’ Test Taking Strategies for the Nursing Board Examination” by the College of Nursing in coordination with the University Center for Continuing Education was conducted last August 11 to 12 at Lantaka Hotel by the Sea, Zamboanga City.

The faculty enhancement training was actively participated in by the College of Nursing Faculty headed by its Dean, Dr. Nursia M. Barjose. The seminar tackled important reminders and tips on how to further help the board examinees pass the licensure examination.

Dr. Rusty L. Francisco, the resource speaker of the two-day seminar is presently the Chief Operating Officer of the NC-CLEX- Training Center for Nurses an internationally accredited review center. He is also an international consultant for Education, Research and Hospital Projects. He has been furthermore a recipient of several accolades abroad in the Nursing discipline and was recently featured in the Whos’ Who in American Nursing by the American Society of Nursing Professionals. It was an honor and a privilege for WMSU to have shared Dr. Francisco’s expertise on the following strategies for Nursing Board Examination: (1) How’s of Mastering Multiple Choice Exam, (2) Nursing Process Core Foundation of the Nursing Examination, (3) Priority Questions on the Board Examinations and on the (4) Guessing Techniques.

WMSU President, Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho has always given her full support in the University’s endeavor to continuously enhance review and remediation classes in all colleges that require students to take PRC licensure examinations. This is in consonance with University’s goal to upgrade its status through accreditation and ISO requirements for State Colleges and Universities.

For the past Nursing Board examinations, WMSU has never failed to be part of the topnotchers. And enhancement trainings like this are anticipated to further improve the University’s passing rate.

The 2015 graduates of the said college will be taking its Nursing Licensure Examination on November 2015 and the University is looking forward to more favorable results in the upcoming and future examinations. (Ella Dee Cruz-PAO,WMSU)

The game creator himself, Sir Rod with the second year Psychology studes after a tough battle during their free time

Photo taken during a meeting with the University Palaro organizers, explaining the mechanics and possible strategies and simple rules of the game as it will be featured during the week-long activity.

A faculty from the College of Liberal Arts was recently featured in One Mindanao, an online magazine of the Philippine Information Agency, for his exceptional creation of a mind board game called E- One Seven Battle of Tactics.

The latest interactive mind game for indoor sports enthusiast, according to Mr. Rodney I. Briole, the game creator, is exceptionally unique for it captures the opponent from a certain distance without even approaching the opponent’s space. “Furthermore, it maneuvers at any direction creating a variety of tactical moves capable of accomplishing the objectives in totally different approach,” says Mr. Ebrole. The game can be compared to the famous Chess but it differs in some aspects. E-One Seven can be played by either two or four players, as Mr. Ebrole created two kinds of the said board game.

According to him, he and his colleagues are looking forward for players to discover moves and strategies since this game is still on its early stage.

This board game is already recognized by and patented before the National Library of the Philippines and the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines.

Mr. Ebrole has already been featured in some of the local networks in this City, interviewed in E-media being the most recent.

His colleagues in the academe, friends and even some students already experienced this tactical fever. And E-One Seven will also be featured during the University Palaro on September 9 to 13, 2015.

Tactical games enthusiasts are invited to visit the College of Liberal Arts and look for Mr. Rodney “Rod” I. Ebrole to experience the entertaining and educational game board that is truly “Crimson”. (Ella Dee P. Cruz-PAO,WMSU)

WMSU President, Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho welcoming the delegates of this year’s University Palaro during the opening ceremony held at the Juanito Bruno Gymnasium, this University.

Assistant Schools Division Superintendent, Pedro Melchor M. Natividad inspiring the WMSU community as he shares his message.

Members of the Integrated Laboratory School entertains spectators as they break the ice through a short dance number in the midst of the parade along Normal Road.

Today marks the official opening of this year’s University Palaro with its theme “Strengthening Teamwork through Sports” as the WMSU community joined the kick off parade from RT Lim Boulevard to the WMSU Grounds.

WMSU Palaro will be conducted starting this day, September 9, 2015 to September 13, 2015. Series of ball games, academic contests and other sports will be held on the succeeding days as the University selects the crème of the crop to best represent the WMSU team in the upcoming athletic games between Universities and State Colleges (PASUC).
Today also is a very significant day for the WMSU community as this day marks the third anniversary of the Zamboanga Siege as to where WMSU opened its doors to serve as a community hospital and to help in the feeding and assisting the victims of the siege.

During the opening ceremony, the University President herself, Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho emphasized the need to work together, united as one community, to recover from the loss. She further inspired the audience body through her opening remarks.

Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Pedro Melchor M. Natividad also graced the opening program and gave his words of wisdom and thoughts to ponder.

Abdul Gani A. Ismael, gold medalist of PASUC Games 2015 led the athletic body in their Oath of Amateurism and in the same vein, Mr. Leo A. Hermosilla, National PASUC Referee in Baseball led the Oath for the Officiating Officials of the different sports.

Dr. Ho officially declared the formal opening of this year’s Palaro and ended her speech by saying “to God be the Glory.” (Ella Cruz-PAO, WMSU)

The College of Physical Education Recreation and Sports ruled in the recently concluded 2015 WMSU Palaro as they were awarded as the over-all champion of this year’s sports fest.

Joining the top three best performing colleges of the sports fest were the College of Engineering and Technology (CET) and the External Studies Unit (ESU) who were awarded as the first and second runners up, respectively.

The over-all tally is based on the total number of medals garnered and also considering the gold medals during the duration of the sports event as to where the CPERS got a total of 112 medals of which 55 are gold, CET garnered 107 with 32 golds and the ESU with a total of 79 total medal counts with 32 golds.

The official and final tally medal count as of September 12, 2015, 5:30 pm is on the following sports, Pencak Silat, Karatedo, Taekwando, Dancesport, Arnis, Chess, Sepak Takraw, Soccer Football, Table Tennis, Softball, Badminton, Judo, Volleyball and Basketball.

During the closing ceremony last September 12, the WMSU dynamic lady president, Dr.Milabel Emriquez-Ho expressed her compliments to the organizers and participants for the success of this year’s spots fest. (Ella Dee P. Cruz-PAO-WMSU)

The Western Mindanao State University was the recipient of two awards in the 2015 Search for Sustainable & Eco-Friendly School (tertiary level) during the Awarding Ceremony on August 25, 2015 at the Astoria Hotel. Two plaques were received by the President, Dr. Milabel E. Ho with a cash prize of P25,000:
• as the Regional winner in the 2015 Search for Sustainable & Eco-Friendly School
• Nestle Water Leadership Award

The University participated in the 2015 National Search for Sustainable & Eco-Friendly School with the submission of the documentation entitled : The “Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Initiatives of the Western Mindanao State University” by the Office of the Special Programs & Projects which highlights the University’s stewardship of its campus and natural resource holdings and the discharge of its fourfold functions of instruction, research, extension and production as an institution that is engaged in education for sustainable development.

The conduct of the National Search for Sustainable & Eco-Friendly School is done every 2 years aimed at the establishment and/or strengthening of sustainable and eco-friendly schools in the country which had been enshrined as a priority in the ASEAN Environment Year 2015 with a theme “Empowering the Youth for a Clean and Green ASEAN”, and likewise in the Road Map for the Implementation of Republic Act No. 9512 also known as the National Environmental Awareness and Education Act of 2008 under the National Environmental Education Action Plan for Sustainable Development (2009-2014). (SPPO, WMSU)

Women presidents of different SUCs discussing and sharing notions during the three-day seminar held at the Royce Convention, Grand Astoria Hotel, this City.

pres and pia- Zamboanga City State Polytechnic President Dr. Nora M. Ponce, together with Hon.Senator Pia S. Cayetano, WMSU President Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho and Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology president, Dr. Milavel D. Nazario.

Lady presidents of the different distinguished State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) of the Philippines came together to exercise and reinforce women power in leadership and decision making in a three day seminar hosted by the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) through the initiative of Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho, WMSU prexy and the Gender Research and Resource Center (GRRC) in collaboration with the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC).

The seminar entitled “Succeeding despite inequities, discrimination and other challenges” recognized and highlighted women’s key roles and accomplishments. It also further critically and sensitively identified gender issues in SUCs and identify solutions to these issues, discussed insights, strategies and best practices women have undertaken to become successful leaders. Lastly, it provided opportunities for women leaders to identify their sources of power and to utilize them for the benefit of their constituents, family and one self.

The colloquy reiterated the provisions of Republic Act 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women (MCW) which promotes the full participation and equitable representation of women in all spheres of society particularly in the decision-making and policy-making process in government and private entities, to fully realize their role as agents and beneficiaries of development.

Statistics from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) revealed that men dominate higher education leadership. But there are tremendous inspiring successful women leaders who rose from a simple classroom teacher to a president of a college of a college or university. However, we rarely hear their stories. Thus, the three-day conference is a great avenue to bring all women presidents of SUCs to share their challenges and victories in their journey to inspire other women leaders.

Senate Committee on Education, Arts and Culture Chair, Hon. Senator Pia S. Cayetano graced the gathering together with District 1 representative, Hon. Lilia M. Nuno, Zamboanga City mayor, Hon. Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar, and the PASUC President and incumbent president of the Mindanao University of Science and Technology, Dr. Ricardo E. Rotoras.

During the preliminaries of the session, Bulacan State University president, Dr. Cecilia N.Gascon together with the lady presidents of Capiz State University, Dr. Ediltha L. Magallanes and Central Minadanao University, Dr. Ma. Luisa R. Soliven presented the Best Gender and Development Practices in State Universities and Colleges to the participating body.

On the second day, four vital women empowerment topics were tackled: (1) Women Issues in Leadership; Balancing family, Work, Career and Self, presented by the President of the Women Association of the Philippines and the Director of t Gender Center of the University of the Philippines-Los Banos, Dr. Maria Helen F. Dayo, (2)Women Leaders in HEIs: Nurture your Nature by the WMSU President, Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho, (3) Women Power: Dressing up for all occasions by the WMSU Vice President for Research, Extension Services and External Linkages and Outstanding Couturier of Mindanao, Dr. Roberto B. Torres, and (4) Projection of Women Leaders by Binibining Pilipinas finalist, currently an IT specialist and an entrepreneur, Diane Lim Sadie.

WMSU Officials, L-R: Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. MA. Carla A. Ochotorena, Philippine Service Commission Region IX Director Atty. Macybel Alfaro-Sahi, WMSU Prexy Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho with former WMSU Vice President for Planning, Administration and Finance Dr. Ederlinda M. Fernandez, during the photo op right after the awarding of tokens and certificates.

During the program, wmsu prexy inspired every one in the event as she expressed her heartfelt salutations and expressions of gratitude to the awardees and retirees.

A total of eighty six exemplary Western Mindanao State University employees were given due recognition yesterday as the Civil Service Commission and WMSU commenced the Recognition Day for Loyalty Awardees.

This ceremony is part of the 115th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary with its theme: “Kayang Kaya Mo, Lingkod Bayani!’ WMSU awarded employees who rendered 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 years of service in this University, may it be as a faculty or administrative staff.

Civil Service Commission Region IX Director Atty. Macybel Alfaro-Sahi also made the event more meaningful through her presence and inspired everyone as she shares her thoughts.

“We are now in the autumn of our lives. We have to learn to appreciate things. It feels good to look back and not everyone is privileged enough to enjoy the benefits of a retired government employee…” said retired Vice President for Planning, Administration and Finance Dr. Ederlinda M. Fernandez. She also reiterated that though they are retired, they are recharged. In closing, she uttered “You may take us away from WMSU, but WMSU will never be taken away from our lives.”

WMSU lady President Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho reminded the awardees and everybody present during the ceremony to not add years to your life, but instead add life to your years. “We are all members of the wmsu. The message is clear, that with union there is strength. There is good news for the faculty in the days to come. The recent incident is a challenge for us to start all over again,” says Dr. Ho.

Awardees were given certificates and those who were public servants for 30-40 years were given tokens as a gift of gratitude.

The Centro De Cultura Y Estudio Chabacano (CCEC) of the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) in cooperation with the National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA) will host the “Segunda Conferencia Nacional del Lenguaje Chabacano” with the theme “Lenguaje Chabacano y Cultura: Ta Revisita” on October 28-29, 2015 at the Social Hall of the College of Teacher Education of the said university.

The CCEC is under the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension Services and External Linkages (RESEL) of Dr. Roberto B. Torres and is managed by its Director, Melanie F. Lear with Mr. Mario Mark B. Selisana as the center’s Chabacano linkage coordinator. It functions as a special clearing house in-charge of collecting, organizing, disseminating and preserving local study materials; responsible for conducting, publishing and promoting local historical researches; in-charge of promoting historical events; establish and sustain linkages and networking with other centers, historical bodies, and government bodies both local, national, and abroad. It has its own Technical Working Group (TWG) composed of Chabacano writers, artists, researchers and advocates of the language from the different sectors of the city who serve on volunteer capacity. Its Executive Board is headed by the University President, Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho.

The conference will be graced by no less than the President of the Philippine Historical Association, Local History Committee Network (NHCP), and the Association of Studies Centers in the Philippines (KABANSA) and also the current Vice-President of the Cavite Historical Society, Dr. Emmanuel Franco Calairo.

The conference will focus mainly on presentations regarding Chabacano language and culture. The objectives are the following: (1) Convini todo el maga experto, entusiastico y prominente gente na un conferencia para obtene claridad con el propio lenguaje de Chabacano; (2) Forma y obtene guia permanente para sirvi como base de consideracion na propio usada y conversada del lenguaje Chabacano; (3) Promocion y omenta el conocimiento y apreciacion de lenguaje y cultura Chabacano.

The target participants will include researchers, academicians, cultural and language advocates and enthusiasts from the different HEIs in the country.