Tagbando Vol 30 Issue No 3 (June to September 2022)

By Chonalyn Mae Dava and Mark Steven Tandoy

The University of Antique (UA) main campus saw a 7.72% increase in its enrolment rate for the first semester of Academic Year

despite the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic that laid off workers and halted business operations.

According to the Admission and Registrar’s Office (ARO), the number of enrolees ramped up by 1,308 from 16,946 enrolees on the first semester of the last academic year to 18,254 in the current semester as of September 2022.

The College of Technology (COT) has the most number of students with 4,334, followed by the College of Business and Accountancy (CBA) with 2,964 and College of Teacher Education (CTE) with 1,624.

COT dean, Dr. Lilian Faparan said in an interview that the department accepts all students whether their entrance exam scores are low because the COT has no admission policy regarding entrance exam scores.

“We do not discriminate. UA is the only state university in Antique so luoy man kung i-reject sanda kay kitang-kita gid sa mukha nila ang kasubo, kay wara run sanda ti agtunan,” said Dr. Faparan.

It can be noted that, during the Laging Handa Public Briefing, Commission on Higher Education Chairman, Prospero De Vera put emphasis on schools to look and review the admission policy and conduct affirmative action.

He added that those coming from poor families and indigenous communities must be assisted so they can enter the university.

University President, Dr. Pablo S. Crespo Jr. mentioned in an interview that the primary reason of the increasing student population is due to the free tuition offered in UA, and the less number of private colleges in Antique.

Data above shows the trend of enrollment since 2021 to 2022.

UA opens new college

By Samantha Joy Quiman

The Bachelor of Science in Criminology (BSCrim) program of UA main campus is now under a new college called the College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE).

As per UA Board of Regents (BOR) Resolution No. 50, Series of 2022, the establishment of CCJE was approved during its first quarter of fiscal year 2022 BOR meeting held online on April 27, 2022.

According to the designated dean of CCJE and former program head of BS Crim, Dr. Elden John D. Aurillo, Resolution No. 13, series of 2021 was endorsed to the academic council to “approve the proposed separation of the Bachelor of Science in Criminology from the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), to form another unit or institute subject to the deliberation and discussion of the executive committee pertinent to the recommendations of the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACUP) and its other implications.”

"The separation of the program was recommended during the conduct of [BS] Criminology accreditation for level lll; it is one of the requirements that [needed to be addressed], it is also recommended during CHED visit," Dr. Aurillo explained.

Such proposal was elevated to the BOR and was eventually approved by the board.

The CCJE offers BS Crim and a new program which is the Bachelor of Science in Industrial Security Management (BS ISM).

Mr. Mark Anthony Odango will serve as program head of BS ISM.

Criminal Justice students gather at UA grandstand.

CTE student finishes as UA’s 1st summa cum laude

By Alden John Tubale

“You can't look up to your future if you have not learnt anything from the past. "

It is indeed a challenging year for the life of many students as the global health pandemic affected the education system in the entire country.

Face to face transaction were shifted into online in all government offices even the establishments were closed due to the lack of customers and the net worth lessened. It is an additional burden to many students because their learning will be broken down into new pace.

The pioneers of the K to 12 Basic Education Curriculum were tested and challenged because their teaching internship is not something easy to do for a reason that there is no engagement physically.

The announcement post appeared on the Facebook wall of the Dean of College Teacher Education, Dr. Runato A. Basañes, containing the official list of graduating students with Latin Honors composed of a Summa Cum Laude and 51 Cum Laude on Thursday, July 14. Nilfredo Prince Q. Navea II, a graduating student from the Bachelor of Elementary Education was announced as the first ever Summa Cum Laude under Dr. Basañes as College Dean and Dr. Pablo S. Crespo Jr. as University President. Navea achieved a Completion of Academic Requirements (CAR) as graduate of Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation (BSMT) in John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University – Arevalo, Inc. last 2016. He was fortunate enough

to have secure a placement of scholarship of Bouvet Shipping Management Corporation. He finished his three-year schoolbased education but failed to pursue a year of internship period onboard.

“After a year of contemplating and looking through the reflections of life from different perspectives, I finally decided to start my college life all over again by taking up another course. Many people have said that “teaching is a calling” and I genuinely felt that upon entering the realms of the College of Teacher Education," he said.

“CTE gave me a sense of belongingness which I valued very much, all thanks to our ever supportive and nurturing Dean, Sir Runato A. Basañes. In addition, my interview with Sir Mark Joseph M. Nonato was an eye-opener for me. His words struck deeply into my heart. He told me; 'I see an inspiring teacher in you, someday', and

I have always kept those words on a special place in my heart. From then on, the determination to do better from all the things I did before have lived up on me, " he furthered.

Due to the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic wreaked havoc to the overall education system, Prince also encountered a lot of struggles and problems. By the time the pandemic transpired, he was still in his 2nd year in the university and his father was still having his dialysis treatment. He was diagnosed with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) secondary to Diabetes Mellitus Type II.

Before, Prince was the one who checks his father’s blood pressure from time to time and administering his medicines on a certain time frame. According to him, he can still remember how his family struggled that time due to the health protocols that were being implemented. There were times where they must wait for him to finish his dialysis session

Nilfredo Prince, Summa Cum Laude of Batch 2022, poses for his graduation picture.

in the hospital and would go home at around 2:00 in the morning. They also had financial hardships during those times for his father’s medicines were quite expensive.

With that, Prince's mental and emotional health were greatly impacted. Despite all those circumstances, he was still able to look at the brighter side of things and maintained a positive outlook in life through constant prayers. Not long enough, his father passed away. To this day, he have ultimately lived up to his promise to his family which is to graduate with flying colors.

According to Dr. Basañes, he saw Nilfredo Prince Navea having potential in teaching profession. Although the college has its retention policy, Prince was able to maintain his grades and soar up high in his academics.

“Indeed. I really felt pressured every so often for I need to live up to the expectations of the people around me, especially to the College of Teacher Education. At first, I wasn’t quite sure of how well will I do in this course, but as time went by, I started to realize my true potentials every step of the way as well. That is when I became more serious about finishing this college degree, "Navea stated.

Interestingly, the dean of the CTE is beyond grateful for such an honor to produce a first ever graduating student who will be receiving the highest academic distinction.

“You know what, I am very much proud as a dean because the college was able to produce Prince as Summa Cum Laude. As a fun fact, from the very beginning and upon seeing the records of Prince, I can say that he will graduate with flying colors and indeed, it is true, ” Dr. Basañes said.

Based on the interview, Navea stated that he is very thankful to the Almighty God for the bountiful blessings and for giving him the opportunity to encounter inspiring and wonderful people along his journey in tertiary education. He believes that there are several people who have inspired him through unexpected ways and one of them is Mr. John Wilbert R. Aretaño – Top 4, 2008 Licensure Examination for Teachers and a product of CTE and the whole university.

“Words cannot express how thankful I am for the steadfast support that he is giving and for believing in me since the day one.

In addition, I would like to include another spotlight for my mother, the woman who had been through it all, but never gave up on us. She is truly worthy to be called an inspiration for I could not have done it all without he, " he stressed.

Life won’t be complete if there are no challenges. Life would not be meaningful if we don’t sacrifice. No matter how hard life’s situation is, we need to be resilient. Despite all the hardships, ups and down of it, we need to embrace it in all means. Being in a colony of Red Ants and having all those code of conduct as UAeans, we are equipped with different characteristics which make us strong.

Prince is a living testimony of a true UAean. He endured so much expectations and promises by making all those happen. According to him, he has no specific study routine or strategies at all. He always thought that it was his intrinsic motivation that fueled up his drive towards excellence.

“To my way of thinking, when things get quite overwhelming for you to handle in a short amount of time, feel free to give yourself a break first” he further stated.

He always try to focus on finishing one task at a time. He takes things slowly and make sure that there is definite progress. Surely, as the quote from John Wooden goes, “Good things take time, as they should. We shouldn't expect good things to happen overnight.

"Actually, getting something too easily or too soon can cheapen the outcome.

Moreover, one must be prepared as well before taking the examinations. One can already start studying a week prior to it. Above all, he firmly believes that his faith, trust, and love for God have all been a tremendous help to achieve what he have right now.

Dr. Crespo awards medal to Highest Latin Honor achiever, Nilfredo Prince Navea.

F2F na pagtatapos idinaos

Ni Sandie Ged Nicholas H. Minaves

Sa halos dalawang taong pagpapaliban ng mga mahahalagang kaganapan dulot ng pandemaya, muling idinaos ng UA ang face-to-face (f2f) nitong seremonya ng pagtatapos para sa mga pangkat ng estudyanteng nagtapos ngayong taon.

Batay sa mga nakalap na impormasyon sa panayam kay Dr. Jelyn O. Alentajan, Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), ay napapanahon nang ibalik ang ganitong klaseng aktibidad bagama’t may mga alituntunin at kondisyon parin na dapat susundin. Ayon kay VP Alentajan, ang mangyayari sa pagtatapos

ay magkakaroon ng paunangpagtutukoy ng mga estudyanteng makakasali base sa vaccination status.

Dagdag pa niya, malayang makakapagdalo sa seremonya ang mga estudyanteng may maipapakita na resulta ng kanilang Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR).

Pati mga magulang ng bawat estudyante ay kailangan din magpakita ng kanilang vaccination card bilang patunay.

Ayon sa impormasyong nakapaskil sa opisyal na Facebook ng UA, simula ika-12 hanggang 16 ng Hulyo ang mga petsang

Graduate studies attends 6th Commencement Exercises in July, 2022 at UA Cultural Center.

2022 graduates on their toga.

extension campuses nito.

Samantala, naidaos ng UA Hamtic Campus ang kanilang seremonya ng pagtatapos kung saan itinampok ang isang graduation dance noong Hunyo 12.

Idinaos naman ang seremonya ng pagtatapos sa UA Tario Lim Memorial Campus (UA TLMC) noong Hulyo 13.

Samantala, sa ika-18 ng umaga naman ang seremonya para sa mga magtatapos na estudyante ng Laboratory High School (LHS) sa main campus at sa araw ding ito ginanap ang “Pasidungug 2022” para sa mga estudyanteng napabilang sa “Dean’s List” at magtatapos ng may “Latin Honor”.

Giit din ng VPAA sa kaniyang panayam na ‘tanging isang magulang lamang ang pinapayagang tumungtong sa itaas ng entablado kasama ang kaniyang anak na may Latin honor samantala sa mga estudyante na napabilang sa Dean’s List ngayong semester, tanging sila lamang ng walang kasamang magulang ang hinahayaang makakaakyat sa entablado.’

Hulyo 19 ang naitalang araw para sa unang pangkat ng mga estudyanteng magtatapos na

Ang ikalawang pangkat naman ng mga estudyante na nanggaling sa CTE at CBA ay nagdaos ng kanilang seremonya ng pagtatapos sa Hulyo 20.

Panghuli ang mga estudyanteng napasailalim sa CMS na nagtapos noong Hulyo 21.

Limitado at tanging mga mahahalagang tao lamang na may papel sa seremonya ang nakadalo.

napabilang sa mga kolehiyo: CAS, CEA, COT, at CCS.

Dr. Pablo S. Crespo Jr, alongside Congressman AA Legarda are head in the processional march during PASIDUNGOG 2022.

Are we ready yet?

The UA recorded by far the highest number of student population in its entire existence this first semester of academic year 2022-2023. A grand total of 24,412 students were enrolled in all its campuses, 18, 254 of which were from the main campus.

As the student population increases, it follows that the resources, physical facilities, and personnel of the university should suffice and the needs of the students should be met. It can be observed that even before the student population skyrocketed, there is already a lack of comfortable classrooms and qualified faculty. The student-teacher ratio is still discomforting. The number of faculty with PhD is still slim.

The Commision on Higher Education

(CHED) chairperson, Prospero De Vera III, announced that the continution of free higher education is very important for poor students to pursue a degree in SUCs. “Ang repormang kailangan natin dyan ay unang-una, kailangan nating tingnan yung admission policy kasi ngayon talagang maraming batang gustong mag-aral sa mga public universities,” De Vera said.

UA president, Dr. pablo S. Crespo Jr., said that perhaps CHED would require all students to report to UA for face-toface (f2f) class. “If we could not do a full face-to-face 100% in the second semester, there is a high possibility to do it in the next [academic] year,” he said in an interview with The PRISM staff.

As the only state university in the province, UA is the ultimate choice of students to pursue a college degree. Although CHED suggests that the admission policy is adjusted to the demands of today’s students, there should be at least a standard in which this admission policy is anchored on if we are to make sure that we maintain excellence as one of our core values. It is expected that UA as a higher educational institution produces remarkable graduates as they carry the name of the institution when they go out to look for a job.

The concept of “no student should be left behind” does not mean all students are admitted because it is necessary. What this concept meant is that we provide equal opportunities for these learners to have access to education whether it is for skills development through TESDA or specialization at a university. The most important thing to consider is how the institution can still effectively deliver quality education despite this skyrocketing population. Quality education requires the necessary facilities and laboratories, qualified faculty and adequate support services personnel. The university cannot simply offer what it does not possess.

As the voice of the students, we suggest that matters regarding student population and the resources needed to cater to their needs must always be at the top priority list in the planning stage, especially now that the administration is crafting its strategic plan for six years. The quantum leap in the student population requires a more serious attention. As we revert to f2f classes, we will see that there had been a huge difference from our experience two years ago. We need to be ready for this if we so desire to be a leading university.

A problematic aid, how can it alleviate finacial woes?

By Jan Brian Siladan

The Department of Social Welfare and Developmetn (DSWD) aided 38,590 students in the region. Despite this, the institution faced backlash on the inefficient application, assessment, and payout systems for educational aid under the Assistance for Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

DSWD Field Office VI secured 26 million pesos additional funds for the continuation of the educational assistance payouts on September 17 and 24, but suddenly halted distribution due to insufficient funds for the region.

DSWD allowed a staggering budget for the educational assistance program under AICS Unfortunately, the program’s implementation followed a “trial and error” system to reach its goal of helping individuals in crisis throughout the country. It is clearly stated in DSWD Memorandum Circular No. 15 s. 2022 that the guidelines were updated “to ensure the faster and more efficient delivery of assistance through the AICSprogram” however that is not what is happening in the conduct of payouts for students in crises.

Firstly, the updated implementing guidelines of the AICS program is commendable. DSWD did show its interest in helping individuals in crisis. The updated guidelines for implementation of the AICS program specify that the program beneficiaries are “any individual, whether indigent or not, who is in a crisis situation or in difficult circumstances”. They were even able to realize that lowermiddle-class earners were also in crisis and also needed assistance.

To avoid the chance that rich individuals would avail of the aid, the guidelines elaborated specific

conditions where “beneficiaries may include those who are breadwinners, working students, children of solo parents, children of rebel returnees, children with Human Immunodeficiency Virus or those living with parents with HIV, victims of abuse, or are otherwise in crisis due to human-induced or natural calamities”. Meanwhile, there were stampedes on payout sites on the first scheduled day of assessment and applications all over the country, and it went viral on social media platforms. Is it not common knowledge that when opportunities for financial aid are given by the government, citizens would most likely seize the opportunity. There were even instances where people would sleep at the venue the

day before the scheduled date of application. In the province of Antique, only around 600 individuals in crisis were catered out of the bulk of applicants who went to San Jose, Antique to avail of the aid. This problem occurs when programs headed by the government lack plans, coordination, and communication. An example of an inconvenient event that occurred is miscommunication with Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries. DSWD Secretary Erwin Tulfo apologized for his mistake but there was no quick advisory to the disqualification of 4Ps families. It is true that children who are beneficiaries of 4Ps avail of a monthly educational grant however they were informed late of

their non-qualification.

In response to these issues, a government agency may be able to communicate its guidelines to the community before implementing a program. The DSWD posted its guidelines and qualifications, but there could be more specific data, which include the non-qualification of 4Ps beneficiaries and government scholars. There is a need for comprehensive dissemination of updates to cater to the rights of every citizen to information.

Moreover, the shift to an online modality for scheduling assessment and payout did not offer a fair deal to everyone qualified to avail of the assistance. For instance, financially challenged individuals may have no phone, no signal to receive the notification message, and lesser knowledge of digital platforms. Colleagues and neighbors may help each other to solve this dilemma of applying through the Google form requiring a personal email address. Additionally, the Google form is even questionable because of its changing format. The link posted by the DSWD Field Office VI updated from a link that required a photo of the requirements to one which did

not include uploading files. These spark a question of consistency and how secure the application of every individual is. Th ere was no advisory whether applications are catered alphabetically or first-come-firstserved basis.

The online mode of application may also be better if there was an automated response for queueing. It ensures that applicants are scheduled based on when they have applied. Even if spammers and unqualified applicants receive a schedule, they would be assessed personally and will not be able to avail of the benefits.

It would be better if heads and members of government agencies and departments were experts in the assigned field and not just any prominent individuals. It pertains to all of the departments handled by cabinet secretaries because the government should not be a training field for individuals but a space to efficiently “promote social justice in all phases of national development (Article II s. 10 of the 1987 Constitution of the Philippines)”. Government programs need to be systematic so that the taxpayers’ money will be utilized properly and not wasted because of failure and incompetence.

Niña Rica Belmonte

Jorielyn Martizano

Sandie Ged Minaves

Renavi Maguidgad

Jan Brian Siladan

Ma. Stephanie Kate Balboa

Justine Jane Abanto

Joevyva Mae Torre

Iyen Bautista

Avelino Lagunday Jr.

Dharlyn Mae Qubing

Janea Giselle Cazeňas

Chonalyn Mae Dava

Lord Defino

John Paul Macuana

Deo Dame Saligumba

Mark Steven Tandoy

Arjay Pelingon

Zander Rivera

Royce Vinzon Rubite

Demil Ros Mendoza

Ivon

Glyn Vher

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Alfonso

Martial Law at 50: a new era of disinformation

By Renavi Maguidgad

Fifty years ago today, dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr. declared Martial Law, a law enforced by military forces that resulted in grave human rights violations for the Filipino people, particularly activists, journalists, and every citizen who actively criticized his government's discrepancies.

Did the declaration of Martial Law threaten the democracy? During the regime, democracy was at stake as the state was not under the power of its people but was controlled by its government. Press freedom is one of the features of democracy as it provides a means of free circulation and accessible information for the public. The media plays an important role in properly informing people about what is going on in the country where they live.

It allows people to obtain information about the leaders of their country. The Marcos regime sought to control the way people perceived the political structure of the Philippines. The dictator silenced public criticism and shut down competing media, and launched media outlets under his control to infiltrate the information to be disseminated to the public.

Media outlets were accused of engaging in subversive activities against the government. News was reviewed before it was released to the public. Misinformation was very rampant during the Martial Law, a way to mind-condition the people that the government they had at that time was a perfect one; that violence is part of good governance; and that criticism is rebellion that has to be punished because it might build an unpleasant image of the government.

Through the years, because of misinformation, the truth has been divided into two.

Others believe that it was done for a good reason; that some people died because they did not follow what the government mandated them to do; that its purpose was to protect the country from terrorism, while most of the professional critics and historians argue that human rights violations are undeniably happening.

On May 9, the dictator’s son, Ferdinand "Bong-Bong" Marcos Jr., won the National Election 2022. Because of the unforgettable event that his father left for the Philippines and the Filipino people, it was viewed as another threat to Philippine democracy. He was also criticized and compared to his father, that he might rule the same way as his father or worse than the last dictator.

It is a major blow to Philippine democracy that the country elected the son of a dictator who was the cause of an uprising against their government. This is a slap in the face of the victims of cruelty during Martial Law, as well as a deja vu of the Philippine Revolution.

Today, because of the influence of different social media platforms, history is merely addressed as gossip and can be revised and distorted by anyone. Wherein facts are often disregarded, while disseminated misinformation that gains huge reactions and comments are more credible than reading a book from a library. People use this as a defense mechanism against the critics of society. It is alarming that a history that shapes the future is at risk.

UASG veep calls out Health Services’ poor med clearance issuance system; Health’s exec reacts to allegations

By Jorielyn E. Martizano

UASG vice president-elect Brent Oliver Abucejo called out the system in acquiring medical clearance on August 9.

In a Facebook post, Abucejo stated that students who queued at 6 A.M. were not included in the 200-slot cut-off because there is only one doctor available in the university and students are not allowed to get medical clearances from other clinics.

The incoming SG veep also hit the lack of announcement in the changes of policy, particularly with the approval of getting medical results from other doctor which was later on changed to the original policy; the university doctor is the only one allowed to interpret the medical examination results.

Abucejo then suggested that the university shall have committee on announcement and information dissemination which is one of his platforms during the election last June.

On the other hand, Health Services Unit Director, Dr. Pearl Joy H. Cortejo clarified the next day, August 10 that there was a ‘miscommunication’ that happened regarding the acquisition of medical clearance.

Dr. Cortejo defended her office against the ‘lack of announcement’ allegations saying that they released a memorandum last July 11 to the colleges about the guidelines in acquiring a medical clearance but offices involved failed to coordinate with each other.

The health office’s director added that diagnostic centers which are

accredited by the Department of Health (DOH) have the authority to release medical clearances.

She explained that the 200 slots were the presumed target and not a ‘cut-off’ but since the wave of students who queued yesterday was unexpected, they catered three times the number of the target slot.

Students were later on urged to verify the information provided by the staff of other offices to their unit.

Moreover, she also explicated that it is optional for the students to have their laboratory results interpreted by the other physicians outside the university but it would be better if the resident doctors of the university do it.

The Health Services head also furthered that one of the reasons why it is suggested that their medical results will be read inside the campus is because it is free and there are municipal Rural Health Units (RHUs) complaining about the amount of students seeking their services thus, compromising their focus on their regular patients.

However, she recommended that students from Pandan, Libertad, Caluya, and Iloilo municipalities San Joaquin, and Miag-ao could have their results read in their own local clinics.

She further added that acquisition of medical clearance will still take place as long as enrollment is ongoing.

The PRISM is 2022 Most Outstanding Student Organization

The PRISM ranked first in the search for Outstanding Student Organization 2022 while Francis Mission, former editor in chief and current opinion editor of the publication, ranked first as well in the search for Outstanding Student Leader 2022.

The UA Natural Science Society (UA-NaSciS) which topped the list of “Outstanding Club and Organization 2021” by SAS finished second in rank this year while the Philippine Institute of CivilEngineer - UA Student Chapter (PICEUASC) which ranked second last year settled to third spot this year.

Interestingly, The PRISM was third in rank in 2021 but climbed two spots to become this year’s most oustanding student-led organization in the main campus.

The Student Affairs and Services (SAS) of UA main campus organized the said search.

Students queue for medical clearance reading in the university.

UASG presents student activity plans with student org officers

By Justine Jane Abanto

UASG President, Kim John Osunero, presented the planned activities for the month of October-November which involve UAeans, including this year’s celebration of the Teacher’s Month, hUgyAw, and Induction Ceremony for newly appointed student leaders.

Alongside key officers of National, Provincial, and Future Leaders of the Philippines (FLP) Sub-chapters, student clubs and organizations, UASG led this acitivity in a General Assembly Meeting, September 23 at UA Cultural Center.

“Kamo ron bahala kang inyo mga pakulo para sa inyo mga teachers sa inyo nga colleges. You can make video or appreciation posts, then post niyo sa pages kang inyo college departments.And also, pwede man ninyo matugro sa UASG, we are going to gather documentation and compile it for posting,” Osunero said on plans for the Teacher’s Month celebration.

When asked about the medical requirement fees for the upcoming intramurals, El Jan Jason Doronila, National FLP President, addressed that it will be shouldered by the respective departments of student athletes, and they may ask their college dean or college sports coordinator regarding the concern. “May initial plans ron kita about jan kara,” Osunero said, conforming with Doronila’s statement.

The UASG president also clarified that student athletes from the College of Maritime Studies (CMS) are exempted from submitting their medical requirements because of their medical prerequisites. Submission of documents including Eligibility Forms, Medical Requirements, and Parental Waivers from student athletes shall be secured and submitted by sports facilitators to the UASG Office on October 24-28. Furthermore, all UASG, FLP, clubs and organizations, as well as homeroom officers, regardless of their position, are required to attend the Induction Program on October 21, 8 AM to 10 PM, at the UA Cultural Hall, in their modern Barong and Filipiniana attire.

Officers of different UA clubs and organizations attend the assembly meeting spearheaded by the UASG president, Kim John Osunero.

Antique designated as testing center for September 2022 LEPT

F2F na pagtatapos idinaos

Ni Sandie Ged Nicholas H. Minaves

By Joevyva Mae A. Torre

Antique was designated by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) as an additional testing center for the upcoming September 2022 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT).

This announcement was posted by PRC on August 11, 2022 following a series of advisory on additional testing centers for the board exams.

In April 2022, PRC also made an announcement designating additional testing centers for the 2022 Real Estate Consultants Licensure Examination (RECLE)Revalida in order to ensure the strict adherence to current health and safety protocols. This is done in light of the government's ongoing COVID-19 mitigation measures.

Yesterday, according to a statement made by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), Province of Antique has been chosen as an additional testing site for the incoming September 2022 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT).

Dominic M. Samillano, a graduate from the UA expressed his gratitude upon hearing the announcement.

"Nami kay syempre indi run magastusan ang matake kang LEPT kay rapit lang dya sa Antique," he said.

The PRC also emphasized that this designation will make it possible for the test-takers to sit for the aforementioned licensing exam without having to travel too far or incur extra costs.

Samillano recognized the importance of the designation of the testing center as he prepares for the

incoming licensure examination.

"Bahol dya nga bulig especially sa mga pigado kag sa mga wala garastuson mag pa Ilo-Ilo," he added.

PRC had made no further announcements regarding the LEPT Schedule in designated centers as of yet.

Criminology seniors finish internship

By Ma. Stephanie Kate Balboa

The Bachelor of Science in Criminology (BSCRIM) interns received their completion certificate and awards during their graduation rites today, July 15, at UA Cultural Center with the theme ‘Sustaining and Advancing the Gains.’ Macky Delgado, former UA Criminology Society president and one of the graduates, stated that the program aimed to give honor and recognition to the BSCRIM interns for their hardwork and resiliency all throughout their studying years in UA.

The people involved in the aforementioned event are: the university president Dr. Pablo Crespo Jr.; dean of College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), Dr. Cecilia Salvilla; program head of BS Criminology, Dr. Elden John Aurillo; Criminology Intern Unit (CIU) coordinator, Mr. Japhet V. Quiape ; CIU officers and all CIU graduates.

Newly renovated Provincial Capitol building of Antique.

UA produces 10 electrical engrs after 2022 EE licensure examination

By Justine Jane Y. Abanto and Joevyva Mae A. Torre

With a 50.20% national passing rate, 10 out of 25 board examineesaand Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) graduates from the UA passed this year’s Registered Electrical Engineering Licensure Examination held last September 3-5.

Engr. Nicky Rose M. Agupe, Engr. Shaun Jayvee S. Billete, Engr. Bon Clyde Z. Dela Cruz, Engr. Kent Clark T. Josue, Engr. Jessie E. Merjuar Jr., Engr. Jan Michael B. Orbasayan, Engr. Joel T. Pasugiron, Engr. Franz Mark C. Patiño, Engr. Neil Christian M. Sitchon, Engr. Julius Cesar P. Sucaldito were among the successful examinees as per the Facebook post from College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA).

“I was overjoyed and a little surprised to see my name on the list of successful passers. That, despite all of my challenges, I was able to pass the REE and RME board exams,” Engr. Billete, one of the board passers and first-time takers, said in an interview.

He also shared the preparations he made for the exam, including enrolling in a review center to get guide materials, and avoiding distractions by uninstalling all mobile games from his phone, only watching YouTube videos related to the review.

“No matter what challenges you face, keep your eyes on the goal. Discipline combined with consistency in studying will be crucial in passing the board exam. But don't forget to prioritize your mental and physical health. Above all, pray and trust in God,” he advised to all UAeans taking the board examination.

The said board exams were conducted by the Board of Electrical Engineering at PRC testing centers in Manila, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Koronadal,

Legazpi, Lucena, Pagadian, Pampanga, Rosales, Tacloban, Tuguegarao, and Zamboanga.

Meanwhile, Dean of CEA, Engr. Christine C. Vegafria, DPA, expressed her sentiments toward the performance of CEA alumni.

“As the present dean of the College, the result of the Board Exam gives us joy that 10 students of ours before, now are Engineers. They have proven that hard works with determination and trust God really is rewarding. It is also a great challenge to the College and all the faculty members the result

of the Board. It makes us think, formulate, and work for more to produce competent and excellent Engineers in our country,” she said.

Engr. Vegafria further encouraged those who did not pass to “stay optimistic.”

“It may not be your time but study and prepare for the exam to reach the dream you have many years ago,” she added.

Engr. Shaun Jayvee S. Billete of Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Batch 2020.

UAeans huddle at UA Job Fair

By Justine Jane Y. Abanto

In coordination with the Career and Placement Services, the External Affairs office welcomed invited agencies and job seekers to a One-Stop-Shop UbrA 2022 or “University based registration and Application,” on September 7 at UA Cultural Center.

According to UA Career and Placement Services director, Emma Otayde Feranil, the said event was Dr. Pablo S. Crespo Jr. 's idea whose objective is to provide venues for graduates, alumni, and Antiqueño job aspirants.

“Because other job fairs are usually held in Iloilo, there are some of our graduates who often cannot apply [due to the distance]. This will bring work mainly to all Antiqueño job seekers, even for nonAntiqueños who are willing to apply [for work],” Dr. Feranil expounded.

She further said that Dr. Crespo required new graduates and alumni of UA to attend this job fair because there are partner agencies and government agencies including the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) Antique, Statistics Authority (PSA) Antique, PhilPOST Antique, Local Civil

Registrar, and the UA Human Resource Management Office (HRMO) that are ready to accept application.

“Antiqueños are known to be intelligent, resilient, hardworking, [and] patient. Actually, we have very good human resources [here in our province],”

Feranil added when asked regarding what assets Antiqueños have that can be beneficial for hiring agencies.

Myrene Pantua, fresh graduate of the University, was one of the job hopefuls among an estimated 250 applicants who joined in the job fair.

Fresh graduates of UA prepare their documents during UBRA 2022.

Psychology dept holds orientation for freshies

By Joevyva Mae A. Torre

To welcome the new batch of first year psychology students, the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology Program of the UA held its Psychology Freshmen Orientation on September 2, 2022.

The UA Department of Psychology, with the leadership of the Samahan ng mga Mag-aaral sa Sikolohiya (SAMA-KA) Sikolohiya, successfully conducted the program's first face-to-face departmental orientation .

Dr. Daisy Mae Fornier, the program head of AB Psychology, together with the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), Dr. Cecilia Salvilla welcomed the freshmen through their opening remarks during the event.

"So it is good for all first-year students to keep in touch with their teachers and advisers. Don't wait until fourth year kag rudto kaw lang mabira-bira, it is better to start in first year pa lang my dear students", Dr. Salvilla advised.

The dean also asked for the cooperation of the freshmen and congratulated them afterwards as they stayed at the university.

Meanwhile, Dr. Fornier also discussed the newly implemented retention policy in the program, " This policy has not been reinforced in the last two years because of the pandemic, but now, we are kindly informing everyone that we are now implementing it," she informed.

In addition, faculty, staff, and advisers for the academic year 2022–2023 were also introduced by Dr. Marilu Baculna, Professor III, coming from the

department.

Mrs. Rama Lo Amedo, a registered psychologist, also introduced the field of psychology, which helped the freshmen to understand the nature of the program through presenting significant information and background upon taking up the course.

The said orientation was also conducted to take the opportunity to orient the students about the AB Psychology Curriculum discussed by Dr. Kristoffer Ryan Gidaya, Guidance Counselor of the University.

In addition, Mr. Nicasio Pimentel, the adviser of first year students also presented the career opportunities upon taking up the program.

Furthermore, Ms. Ina Joy Reysoma, a registered psychometrician, also provided relevant information regarding the board exam for aspiring psychologists in the future. She also encouraged everyone to take the Board Licensure Examination for Psychologists and Psychometricians (BLEPP) after taking up the said course.

The existing student organization of the university's AB Psychology Program, Samahan ng mga Mag-aaral sa Sikolohiya (SAMA-KA) Sikolohiya, was also introduced by its president, Hannah Bee Sibugan.

For Jasmin Rose Napuli, a freshman student, "During the pandemic, I've realised that psychology is my mission...to my fellow freshmen, open your hearts to psychology and embrace the journey. This is our opportunity to live with purpose," she expressed.

Psych UAeans gather at UA Cultural Center during face-to-face departmental orientation.

Pagtatapos ng buwan ng wika naisagawa

By Joevyva Mae A. Torre and Dharlyn Mae Qubing

Sa pagtatapos ng Buwan ng Wika, idinaos ng Samahang Filipino (SamFil) ang panapos na gawain ng kanilang kulminasyon ngayong Biyernes, ika-dalawa ng Setyembre sa UA Cultural Center.

Ipinagdiwang ngayong taon ang pagbibigay halaga sa mga wika ng Pilipinas pangunguna ng SamFil na may temang “Filipino at mga katutubong Wika: Kasangkapan sa Pagtuklas at Paglikha.”

Binigyang diin ni Dr. Nelly E. Mistio, campus director ang kahalagahan ng wikang pambansa at wikang katutubo sa pagka-Pilipino ng bawat isa.

Tinalakay naman ni G. Karl John C. Secando ang panitikang Kinaray- a, bilang yaman ng Antiqueño at ibinahagi ang kanyang pananaliksik hingil sa konstekwal na wikang Filipino at ng katutubong wikang Kinaray-a.

Ayon sa kanya, patuloy na gamitin ang Kinaray-a sa pagsususlat at hindi dapat ikahiya na gamitin sa alinmang diskurso.

Isa rin sa mga naging tampok sa programa ang partisipasyon ni G. Aries Cabahit, dating direktor ng Sentro ng Wika at Kultura (SWK) ng pamantasan bilang panauhing tagapagsalita sa nasabing programa.

Kasabay ng kaniyang pagtalakay ng "Eklipse ng Pagkatao; Katotohanan, Kataliwasayan at Kalakaran ng Wika sa Kultura Panahon ng Pagbabago", ipinahayag niyang gawing wika ng mas mataaas na komunikasyon ang Filipino at mga wikang katutubo.

Bilang bahagi ng kulminasyon, kahanga-hangang mga tanghal ang inihandog ng mga mag-aaral na nagpapakadalubhasa sa Filipino. Itinanghal bilang nagwagi sa unang gantimpala sa kategoryang poster

making si Daniela Marie Arnaiz, samantalang ikalawang gantimpala naman si Elmar Lorenzo, at nakuha naman ni Terrence Billy Jurado ang ikatlong pwesto.

Wagi rin si John Ezekiel Española sa isinagawang pagtatalumpati na sinundan nina Dharlyn Mae Qubing na nakuha ang ikalawang pwesto at Czarina June Mordese sa ikatlong pwesto.

Kampyeon naman sa spoken word poetry si Angelica Doronilla habang pangalawa si Mary Jane Mondejar pangatlo si Sean Gideon Seballos.

Ipinagdiwang ng Samahang Filipino (SamFil) ang Buwan ng Wika noong ika-dalawa ng Setyembre.

DSWD region VI posts student-aid

payout site in Antique

By Jan Brian C. Siladan

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) granted financial education assistance to students in crisis from August 20 until September 24.

Students or parents in Antique proceeded to the Municipal Activity Center, San Jose, Antique for an inperson application.

Applicants were required to bring a certified-true copy of the enrollment form and a valid ID card.

The program provides P1,000 for elementary pupils,

P2,000 for those in high school, P3,000 for senior high school students, and P4,000 for those in college.

Meanwhile, Western Visayas DSWD Regional Office stated in a Facebook post that if there were clients who were not catered to, the DSWD Field Office VI would go to their locality to conduct an assessment and payout.

DSWD Field Office VI posted phone numbers and email addresses of payout sites for inquiry and setting appointment schedules.

PYDO, DSWD aid applicants flock at registrar’s office

By Jay Lord Defino and Janea Giselle Cazenas

Applicants for Provincial Youth Development Office (PYDO) Educational Assistance and Educational Aid under the Assistance for Individual Crisis Situation (AICS) swelled at the registrar’s office at UA Main Campus on September 23.

Students requested certified copies of their grades and certified copies of registration forms as the requirements for the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and PYDO scholarship programs.

Jofeth Salaver, a student intern in the Registrar Office, said that the students were catered on a first come first serve basis.

“The Registrar requested that if we could provide

at least 2 tables to cater the requirements of the students, However, I was not anticipating that it would come to this point that some of the students will not be catered,” Kim John Osunero, UASG President said in an interview.

The surge of scholarship applicants only eased at around 3’oclock in the afternoon.

“We were given five days extension to submit our requirements for those who did not pass on the exact date,” stated Rica Joy Luces, a Bachelor of Science in Office Administration student.

Furthermore, she suggested that the registrar’s office could make a schedule per municipality in order to prevent the slow transactions of requirement.

UASG, FLP hold provincial sub-chapter elections

By Joevyva Mae A. Torre and Dharlyn Mae Qubing

The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) together with the College of Criminal Justice and Education (CCJE) and the College of Marine Studies (CMS) elected their new set of Provincial Officers and Future Leaders of the Philippines-Sub Chapter Officers this morning.

With the assistance of the UASG and Future Leader of the Philippines (FLP) officers, the elections for the first batch of colleges were successfully conducted in their respective venues.

For Dan Frederick Torillo, newly elected CAS Governor, "I will do my responsibilities... kag ang inyo nga mga ginapangayo, siguraduhon ko gid nga pamatian ko inyo nga mga limog" he said.

Torillo also discussed the elimination of sanction policies as one of his platforms as Governor of CAS.

According to the schedule dissimenated by the UASG, the College of Business and Accountancy (CBA) will hold their election this afternoon, and the other remaining colleges for next week, September 19,2022. | By Joevyva Mae A. Torre and Dharlyn Mae Qubing

College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) and College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) identify nominees for provincial- sub chapter elections.

Maritime students cast vote during the traditional FLP election at UA Covered Gym.