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By Mikee Natinga Norico

Celebrating Excellence! ̽����ѡ recognizes the winners of the inaugural ̽����ѡ KapitBayan Awards for their outstanding community-driven initiatives.

On January 29, 2025, ̽����ѡ (̽����ѡ) celebrated the remarkable achievements of its community with the presentation of certificates to the winners of the inaugural ̽����ѡ KapitBayan Awards at the Henry Luce III Library Conference Room.

Launched in November 2024, the ̽����ѡ KapitBayan Awards is a university-wide competition recognizing impactful programs that embody the spirit of kapit-bisig—coming together in service for the betterment of the community. The term kapit signifies unity and mutual support, while bayan means “community” or “nation,” reflecting the collaborative efforts that drive positive change. This initiative aligns with ̽����ѡ’s vision and mission of fostering programs with meaningful societal impact.

The winners of the ̽����ѡ KapitBayan Awards, announced on December 30, 2024, are as follows:

1st Place – “Kumikitang Kabuhayan, ̽����ѡ ang Kaakibat” of the College of Agriculture, Resources, and Environmental Sciences
Leader: Dr. Jaime Cabarles, Jr.

2nd Place – “Digitalino: A Digital Literacy Program” of the College of Computer Studies
Leader: Prof. Ana Mae Cantel
Dean: Prof. Ma. Christina Quijano��������

3rd Place – “Nurturing Creativity and Innovativeness towards Commercialization” of the College of Engineering
Leader: Prof. Gelvie Lagos
Dean: Engr. Mary Earl Daryl Grio

4th Place – “Project Agubay” of the College of Business and Accountancy
Leader: Dr. Mary O’ Penetrante
Dean: Dr. Lorna T. Grande������ �� ��

5th Place – “Student Enhancement Activities for Life” of the Guidance Services Center
Leader: Prof. Jessalyn Fetalsana
VPSA: Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate��

��The meticulous review conducted by the Board of Judges, led by Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, Vice President for Finance and Enterprises, as Chairperson, and Dr. Irving Rio, Vice President for Academic Affairs, as Vice Chairperson, was acknowledged. Other judges included Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs; Engr. Dany Molina, Vice President for Administration; Dr. Evelyn Grace Ayson, University Research Director; Dr. Aries Roda Romallosa, Chairperson of the Department of Agricultural Engineering and Environmental Management; and Prof. Sarex Dalida Dipol Jr., Director of the Community Engagement and Service-Learning Center.

The event was organized by the ̽����ѡ Innovation Awards Committee, led by Office of Institutional Advancement Director Dr. Dimpna Castigador, Vice Chairperson Ms. Crista Huyong, and members Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Ms. Victoria Garzon Bellosillo, Prof. Lesley Apple Larroza Dignadice, Prof. Dipol, Rev. Dr. Francis Neil Jalando-on, Dr. Rodel Palomar, and Prof. Franklin Robite.

The ̽����ѡ KapitBayan Awards stand as a testament to the university’s commitment to community engagement and excellence in service. As the program moves forward, it continues to inspire meaningful collaborations that empower and uplift communities.