IRO Team, Author at Romblon State University

July 24, 2024August 6, 2024

RSU inks MOU with Dalhousie University to Strengthen Smart Agriculture Collaboration

In a significant move to advance smart agriculture and foster international collaboration, Romblon State University and the Dalhousie University – Faculty of Agriculture inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) last July 19, 2024, at Dalhousie University’s Halifax Campus. The MOU was signed by RSU President, Dr. Merian P. Catajay Mani and Mr. Matt Hebb, Vice President of the Government and Global Relations at Dalhousie University.

Witnessing the momentous occasion were Congressman Eleandro Jesus F. Madrona, Representative of the Lone District of Romblon, and Her Excellency Maria Andrelita S. Austria, Ambassador of the Philippines to Canada, along with other representatives from RSU, Dalhousie University, and the Nova Scotia – Office of Intergovernmental Affairs.

This MOU marks a new chapter in the ongoing collaboration between RSU and Dalhousie University, focusing initially on the field of smart agriculture. The agreement outlines a commitment from both institutions to cooperate in the development of smart agriculture initiatives at RSU and the province of Romblon at large.

This strategic partnership not only strengthens the academic ties between RSU and Dalhousie, but also represents a significant milestone following RSU’s prior engagement with Canadian Higher Education Institutions at the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) Conference held in Vancouver last November 2023. This initial engagement was made possible through the initiative of the Commission on Higher Education – International Affairs Service, led by Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla, as well as Ms. Angel Cachuela, Trade Commissioner of Embassy of Canada – Manila, who facilitated that matching process that led to RSU and Dalhousie’s first meeting. This mission would have also not been possible without the unwavering support of CHED Chairmain, Dr. J. Prospero “Popoy” E. De Vera III.

In its commitment to academic excellence, internationalization, and sustainability, RSU and Dalhousie are set to embark on a collaborative journey that promises to bring innovation, sustainability, and growth to the field of agriculture and fisheries, ultimately benefiting communities in both the Romblon and Nova Scotia.

April 22, 2024April 22, 2024

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐃𝐚𝐲!

In commemoration of Earth Day 2024, Romblon State University (RSU) takes a stance with this year’s theme: “Planet Vs. Plastics.” This timely celebration comes amidst the circumstances of the triple planetary crisis—climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution—that threatens the ecosystems sustaining life on Earth.

Understanding the Triple Planetary Crisis

The triple planetary crisis represents a convergence of urgent environmental challenges:

Climate Change: Rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and sea-level rise are disrupting ecosystems and endangering vulnerable communities.
Biodiversity Loss: Rapid extinction rates of species due to habitat destruction, pollution, and other human-induced factors are leading to ecological imbalances.
Pollution, Including Plastic Pollution: The proliferation of single-use plastics is a major contributor to pollution, especially in marine environments, where plastics harm wildlife and enter the food chain.

The Role of “Planet Vs. Plastics”

RSU’s adoption of this year’s Earth Day theme of “Planet Vs. Plastics” reflects a proactive approach to addressing the plastic pollution component of the triple planetary crisis. By focusing on reducing and ultimately eliminating plastic waste, RSU aims to:

Raise Awareness: Through educational campaigns and outreach programs, RSU educates students and the community about the environmental impact of plastic pollution.
Promote Sustainable Practices: RSU advocates for eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics, encouraging responsible consumption and waste management.
Drive Innovation: RSU supports research and development of biodegradable materials and innovative solutions to plastic pollution, fostering a culture of sustainability and technological advancement.

Taking Action at Romblon State University

At RSU, the commitment to combating plastic pollution is tangible:

Ban Single-Use Plastics: Implement a campus-wide ban on single-use plastics such as plastic bags, straws, utensils, and water bottles. Encourage the use of reusable alternatives instead.
Provide Water Refilling Stations: Install water refilling stations across campus to encourage students and staff to use reusable water bottles instead of purchasing bottled water.
Organize Plastic Clean-Up Drives: Conduct regular clean-up drives in and around campus to collect plastic waste and raise awareness about the impact of plastic pollution on the environment.
Promote Eco-Friendly Events: Encourage event organizers to use compostable or reusable materials for campus events and functions, minimizing plastic waste generation.
Introduce Eco-Friendly Packaging in Campus Cafeterias: Transition to biodegradable or compostable food packaging materials in campus cafeterias and eateries to reduce plastic waste.
Educational Campaigns and Workshops: Organize educational campaigns, workshops, and seminars to educate students, faculty, and staff about the environmental impact of plastic pollution and the importance of waste reduction.
Implement Plastic Recycling Programs: Set up designated recycling bins for plastics across campus and collaborate with local recycling facilities to ensure proper disposal and recycling of plastic waste.
Support Research and Innovation: Allocate resources to support research and innovation projects focused on developing sustainable alternatives to plastics and technologies for plastic waste management.
Collaborate with Local Communities: Establish partnerships with local communities to address plastic pollution beyond campus boundaries through joint initiatives and outreach programs.
Incorporate Sustainability into Curriculum: Integrate sustainability and environmental awareness into academic curricula across disciplines to instill a culture of responsible environmental stewardship among students.
Engage Student Organizations: Encourage student-led environmental clubs and organizations to take proactive steps in raising awareness and implementing solutions to combat plastic pollution on campus.
Monitor and Evaluate Progress: Establish monitoring mechanisms to track the effectiveness of plastic reduction initiatives and regularly assess progress towards plastic pollution reduction goals.

Working Together for a Greener Future

As we celebrate Earth Day 2024 with the theme “Planet Vs. Plastics,” Romblon State University invites everyone to join the movement towards a sustainable, plastic-free planet. Together, we can combat the triple planetary crisis and ensure a healthier, more resilient Earth for generations to come.

Let us embrace the spirit of environmental stewardship and collective action, working hand in hand to protect and preserve our precious planet.

Happy Earth Day!

April 19, 2024April 19, 2024

Eligibility

Required Documents

Application Procedure

Students currently enrolled in a college/university
- (College/university freshmen can apply for KU ISC without GPA restriction)
Graduated students can apply for KU ISC in specific cases. Please contact us in advance.

Complete an online application
- Submit an online application HERE by May 17th.
  - Students may choose the course selection on the online application
  - Students must create their KU ISC passwords in order to access their student account (ID, starting with 202495xxxx, will be automatically given).
- A confirmation email (including the ISC student number) will be sent automatically to the registered email address
Pay the application fee (KRW 100,000).
- Send the necessary documents to email ( isc@korea.ac.kr ) with your Application No.
Check and download the Admission Document from the View/Change Application menu.
Pay the tuition, housing fee and all other remaining fees
Enter Korea on date

April 18, 2024April 22, 2024

Application Process

Selection Process

Preparatory Training

Online applications
All applications must be lodged online at australiaawardsphilippines.org.
Supporting documents
Applicants must submit all the relevant supporting documents listed in the Australia Awards Scholarships Policy Handbook and the following documents to meet the specific requirements for the Philippines:
- REAP: Outlines a project, which applies the knowledge and skills gained from the applicant’s Australian education and training towards Philippine development
- Affidavit of citizenship and residency
- Certification of Grade Point Average/General Weighted Average
- (For targeted category applicants:) Letter from the agency head endorsing the scholarship application and the minutes of meeting of the scholarship committee endorsing the nominees.

Applications will be shortlisted after eligibility checking.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
The selection process includes an interview. Applicants will be assessed against the following criteria:
- Academic competence
- Potential outcomes, specifically the contribution to Philippine development through the REAP; and
- Professional and personal leadership attributes including relevant work experience.
Successful candidates will be notified in mid-2024.
Awardee travel is subject to meeting the requirements of the Australian Government, as determined by the Department of Home Affairs, Department of Education and by the relevant Australian State or Territory governments.

More general information about the Australia Awards, Australia’s aid program, and studying in Australia can be found at the following links:

Information about visas and Australia Awards scholarship entitlements and conditions can be found in the Scholarships Policy Handbook: dfat.gov.au/about-us/publications/Pages/australia-awards-scholarships-policy-handbook.aspx.

Contact details

Australia Awards—Philippines
Address: 3rd Floor, JMT Building, ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City, Metro Manila
Telephone: +632 8638 9686

Email: secretariat@australiaawardsphilippines.org

April 18, 2024April 19, 2024

The Hybrid Asia Exploration (HAx) 2024 which will be held on 14 June – 5 July 2024 (online) and 13 – 19 September 2024 (hybrid) in Surabaya, Indonesia. The host universities are 6 prominent universities in Asia:

Shibaura Institute of Technology, Japan
Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember, Indonesia
Universiti Malaysia Perlis, Malaysia
Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Malaysia
King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, Thailand
Cebu Technological University, the Philippines

In order to nurture Asian talents,this course will provide opportunities to study cultures and technologies from 6 universities. in 5 countries (Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand,Malaysia, and Japan). Participants will develop technical knowledge, application methods, and teamwork spirit through lectures and group activities.

Important Dates:

15 May 2024 Deadline of Screening (RSU)*

7 June 2024 Deadline of Registration

14 June – 5 July 2024 Online Program

16 – 17 September 2024 Hybrid Classes

13 – 19 September 2024 Onsite Program

NOTE: Romblon State University (RSU) will be conducting a screening procedure to select 20 qualified participants to represent our university at the Hybrid Asia Exploration 2024. Interested applicants are encouraged to answer the Google Form provided to be included in the list of short-listed applicants.

LINK: bit.ly/RSU-HAx-2024-Screening

Course Type

Program Fee

Applicant Eligibility

Required Documents for Students

Certificate of Completion course, with the following details:

- Those who satisfy the following requirements will receive a Certificate of Completion and a transcript.

- More than 80% attendance during online meetings, full attendance during hybrid activities and submission of all assignments.

Certificate of Attendance course, with the following details:

- Those who satisfy the following requirements will receive a Certificate of Attendance.

- More than 80% attendance during online meetings and submission of all assignments.

Please prepare all the required documents in hand prior to this online registration. All documents must be in PDF/JPEG format.

Please name your documents with format [University]_[Name]_[Department]_[File Type]. For example ITS_Mike_Electrical Engineering_Recommendation Letter.

Please be advised that incomplete document submission will not be further processed.
Your registration information could be shared amongst 6 hosting universities, while your privacy is totally protected.

Looking forward to receiving your application!

April 17, 2024April 19, 2024

Scholarship Benefits

Eligibility Criteria

Application Requirements

A monthly stipend of EUR 860 regardless of city of residence
Coverage of enrolment fees for master’s programs under the jurisdiction of the Ministry for Higher Education (Diplôme National) up to EUR 3,770 per academic year (frais d’inscription). Other costs distinct from the frais d’inscription (such as frais de formation, purchases of educational resources, pedagogical activity fees, etc.) will be shouldered by the grantee.
Exemption from the CVEC (after obtention of certificate of exemption)
A healthcare package consisting of social security coverage and supplementary insurance (mutuelle)
Possibility of obtaining student accommodations at a preferential rate, notably in accessing CROUS student housing services
Discounted rates for cultural activities organized by Campus France
Economy class ticket from Manila to the French city of destination, including a return ticket of the same class upon completion of the study program. Taxi and shuttle fares, as well as public transport fees are not covered.
Exemption from long-stay student visa fees (distinct from TLS Contact processing fee)

Applicants must be:
1. Filipino citizens residing in the Philippines at the time of application
2. Graduates or graduating students of a Philippine Higher Education Institution
  - College students must have completed their undergraduate programs by September in the intended year of studies for master’s.
Eligible programs:
1. Any full-time, on-site degree offered in a French higher education institution that issues a master’s degree upon its conclusion is eligible.
Study Program:
1. 100% on-site, master’s programs that lead to the obtention of a Diplome National or a state diploma.
2. Note that not all programs offered in public institutions result in a Diplôme National.
  - There are different ways of identifying whether your desired master’s is eligible:
    1. All programs listed on MonMaster are eligible, albeit not always taught in English. Non-francophone applicants must consult the course outline or dedicated program page to verify its medium of instruction. A guide on the MonMaster platform is available on the FAQ & Resources page.
    2. The Taught in English catalog allows students to search state diploma programs. Selecting the [National Diploma] and [National Fees] in the search engine parameters produces a list of eligible programs.
    3. When in doubt, send an e-mail to the local Campus France office for help in determining a study program’s status.
    4. Language of instruction: English, French, or both
    5. Duration: 18 to 24 months (including mandatory internship) beginning in academic year 2024
    6. The following programs are NOT ELIGIBLE:
      1. Programs offered in international schools based in France
      2. Programs offered in international campuses of French schools
      3. Dual diploma and joint master’s degrees
      4. Vocational and technical courses (culinary arts short courses, fashion design workshop, etc.)

Please note that all submitted documents, except for the academic essay, must be in either PDF or image format. Submissions are done entirely online and any submissions delivered to the Embassy of France or the Campus France office will not be entertained.

Personal Documents
- A one-page CV summarizing your academic, professional, and leadership experience
- An academic essay no longer than 500 words detailing why you wish to study in France, as well as how your experience and degree will benefit the Philippines and Filipino society
  1. Essays exceeding the word limit will be disregarded
  2. Please note that we are requesting an academic essay and not a cover or motivation letter
- A complete, official copy of your most recent academic transcripts
- Proof of financial resources, such as:
  1. Bank statements
  2. Bank certificates
  3. Most recent Income Tax Return statement
French Program Details
- Proof of completed application to the selected degree/French HEI
  1. Screenshot/s of completed online application via school website or portal
  2. Screenshot/s of official admission document or e-mail
  3. Scan of mailed admission letter
- Study plan, curriculum, or academic calendar of the chosen program
  1. Commonly available on the school’s website or upon request at your HEI’s admissions office
Optional Documents
- For programs taught partially or entirely in French, proof of French proficiency corresponding to the level required by the study program (at least B2)
  1. DELF/DALF
  2. TEF/TCF results
  3. Letter from recognized French language instructor
- If applicable, letter/s of acceptance, proof of application to other scholarship programs that are not classified as Scholarships from the French Government (Bourse du Gouvernement Français – BGF)

April 17, 2024April 19, 2024

This scholarship offers applicants the opportunity to spend at least 18 or 24 months conducting independent research under a Japanese professor. Any field of study is eligible for the scholarship, but applicants must find a Japanese professor willing to supervise their research.

Applicants are advised to check the websites of Japanese universities to look for professors under their desired field of study. However, this does not guarantee that the applicant will be placed with that professor. Applicants are allowed to contact the professors directly when they pass the first selection.

Qualifications

General Instructions

Applicants must have been born on or after April 2, 1990.
Applicants must be university or college graduates.
Applicants must intend to continue a course of study previously begun, i.e. shall not begin study in a field new to the applicant.
After passing the first selection process, applicants must gain a “Letter of Provisional Acceptance” from a Japanese professor who is willing to supervise the study of the study.
If the host university deems it necessary, the applicants may learn and receive instruction in the Japanese language.the applicant.

Before applying for this scholarship, please ensure that you will be able to complete any pending obligations (e.g., return service) towards your employer, educational institution, or other relevant institutions before April 2025.
All submitted documents WILL NOT BE RETURNED. Should you foresee the necessity of keeping a copy of the requirements for your own purpose, it should be done BEFORE submission of documents. To signify that you accept and agree to this rule, please include the Agreement on Document Submission when you send your application. Applications which do not have this agreement will not be assessed during the document screening.
For the set of original documents, only originals or certified true copies of the Academic Transcript of Records and Certificates of graduation of school/university may be submitted. Notarized documents will also be accepted. Please ensure that information on certified documents can be clearly read. Furthermore, if the document is in a language other than English or Japanese, please provide a translation from the school/university.
CERTIFICATE OF HEALTH - The medical check-up may be undertaken in ANY hospital or health institution, as long as the prescribed form is used . Please ask the doctor to completely fill in all the required data, including their name and the complete address of the medical institution. Having incomplete data may affect your scholarship application. As much as possible, please ask the doctor to sign the form with their wet signature.
CERTIFICATE OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY – All applicants must submit a document attesting to their proficiency in the English language. Apart from certificates of reputable English proficiency tests (e.g., TOEIC, TOEFL, IELTS), a certificate indicating “English is the medium of instruction” issued by the school or university most recently attended by the applicant is also acceptable.
CERTIFICATE OF JAPANESE LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY – Certificates and scores from Japanese proficiency exams such as the JLPT, JFT-Basic, Japanese NAT-TEST, and other similar exams are acceptable for this requirement. Certificates of completion of Japanese language courses will not be accepted.
RECOMMENDATION LETTER – Letters with the wet signature of the recommender are most appreciated. If it is not possible for the recommender to physically sign the letter, the applicant may submit a notarized copy of the recommendation letter with an e-signature. Alternatively, the email thread indicating the request for the recommendation letter and the recommender’s response can also be included with the actual letter. Physically signed letters must be placed in sealed letter envelopes.
Please follow the number of copies for each document stated in the guidelines. For example, if the list asks for 1 original and 1 copy and the applicant is unable to give the original, 2 copies (1 certified true copy and 1 photocopy) of the document must be submitted. Only those with complete application documents will be assessed for the document screening.
Number the documents in the right upper corner according to their number on the list and remove all staple wires from documents. As much as possible, place all your documents in a single envelope or folder arranged according to the list. For easier checking of documents, please use paper clips or binder clips to divide documents per set. (One set consists of one original or copy of all documents listed in the guidelines. Separate the originals and the copies and arrange by number.)
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted to take the exams and interview. In accordance with MEXT regulations, candidates will have to take the exam in person at the Japanese Embassy in Pasay City. The interview may be conducted online or in person at the Embassy of Japan.
Due to the huge volume of applications received every year, we are unable to confirm receipt of documents from each applicant. Please check with your courier service provider on how you can verify delivery/receipt of your documents. Inquiries on application status will not be entertained.
Please mail your application package to the following address on or before the indicated deadline date below. Late applications WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

Attn: MEXT Scholarship Program (RESEARCH CATEGORY)
Japan Information and Culture Center
Embassy of Japan
2627 Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City 1300

NOTE:

In case the courier service asks for a specific point of contact, please show them this specific instruction. The Embassy is able to receive packages as long as the address is written correctly, like the one shown above.
For documents to be sent using a same-day courier service, the JICC will receive documents only on weekdays (except holidays) from 8:30am to 12:30pm, and 1:30pm to 4:45pm. The Embassy reserves the right to decline documents that arrive beyond the stated deadline and timeframe.
For documents to be sent using a later-date courier service (e.g. LBC, JR Express), the JICC will accept documents that were marked as sent on or before May 24, 2024.

April 16, 2024April 19, 2024

Qualifications

Candidate Description

Other Essential Program Information

Between the ages of 18 and 25 at the time of application, although exceptional applicants over 25 may be considered if they meet all other eligibility requirements
A citizen of the Philippines
A resident of the Philippines
A full-time undergraduate student from college, university, or other institutions of higher learning; or graduated in the past four years
Proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English
Not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States
Not employees or immediate family members of employees of the U.S. Government (including a U.S. embassy or consulate, USAID, or other U.S. Government entity);
Not alumni of the YSEALI academic fellowship (including the hybrid program)

Demonstrate interest, knowledge, or professional experience in Civic Engagement, Environmental Issues, or Social Entrepreneurship and Economic Development
Demonstrate strong leadership qualities and potential in their university, place of work, and/or community
Demonstrate a commitment or interest in community service, volunteerism, or mentorship
Indicate a serious interest in learning about the United States and Southeast Asia as a region
Be willing to actively participate in an intensive academic program, community service, and study tour
Commit to return to their home country to apply leadership skills and training to benefit their community, country, or the region of Southeast Asia
Have no (or very minimal) prior study or travel experience in the United States.

Program Funding: Through cooperative agreements with the host universities, the U.S. State Department will cover all participant costs, including program administration, international and visa travel, travel allowances, domestic travel and ground transportation, books and incidental allowances, and housing and subsistence.

Program Requirements and Restrictions: The YSEALI Academic Fellowship Program is an intensive and rigorous academic program and fellows are expected to fully participate in all aspects of the fellowship. Fellows must attend all lectures, participate in all required organized activities, and complete all assignments. Family members and/or friends may not accompany or join fellows for any part of the program. Please make these requirements clear to all nominees.
English Language Ability: English Language proficiency is required to participate in this program: All candidates must be proficient in English to actively participate in the program. Host institutions will consider the varying levels of fellows’ comprehension and speaking ability and will prepare lectures and discussions that meet the highest academic standards while using language appropriate for students where English is their second language.

Housing and Meal Arrangements: Housing will be in shared or single university dorms on campus or full-service hotels within walking distance of most classroom activities. Male and female fellows will be housed in separate quarters. In addition to regular group meals and a university meal plan, fellows may have access to a kitchen to cook meals on their own.

Reasonable Accommodations: Care will be taken to ensure that special requirements regarding diet, daily worship, housing, and medical care are satisfied. Reasonable accommodations will be made available to the greatest extent possible.

Health Benefits: All fellows will be enrolled in the Department of State’s Accident and Sickness Program for Exchanges (ASPE) health benefit plan during the U.S.-based in-person component, which provides coverage of up to $100,000 with a $25 co-pay per medical visit and a $75 co-pay per emergency room visit, for the duration of the program. Pre-existing conditions may be covered up to $100,000, subject to policy exclusions and limitations. Information on the health benefit program may be found online at https://www.sevencorners.com/gov/usdos .

Travel Policy: Fellows are not allowed to arrive in the United States prior to the start date of the fellowship or remain in the United States after the end date. Similarly, fellows are not permitted to leave the fellowship to visit relatives or friends while in the United States. If a relative or friend wishes to visit a participant, it will be considered on a case- by-case basis in consultation with the program officer, the implementing partner, and the host institution. Fellows are required to return to their home countries immediately following the end of the Institute.

Grounds for Dismissal: Violations of program rules, host institution rules, or local, state, or federal laws can be grounds for immediate dismissal from the program.

November 6, 2023November 11, 2024

Flowing Forward: Navigating Water’s Future Through Innovation and Adaptation

📢 Calling all Civil Engineering students with a passion for environmental sustainability and innovation! Be part of our virtual journey as we navigate 𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗠: 𝙎𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙏𝙚𝙘𝙝𝙣𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙡 𝙍𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚, 𝙀𝙣𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝘼𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘼𝙙𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙈𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙜𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙒𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙍𝙚𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙘𝙚𝙨. Learn how you can make a splash in the world of water resource management. Join us in the journey to protect our most vital resource! 💧🌊🌍

This is your gateway to a world where knowledge streams like a river, and solutions burst forth like a waterfall. Explore the transformative impact of technology on monitoring, managing, and safeguarding this essential life resource. Immerse yourself in the realm of engineering within the context of water resources. Uncover the strategies that will secure sustainable water supplies for the generations to come.

This webinar is a convergence of expertise, a fusion of ideas, and a fountain of knowledge that will quench your thirst for understanding the complex dynamics of water management. Our diverse panel of speakers will provide unique insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the world of water resources. Introducing our two esteemed speakers who are experts in their fields:

𝗗𝗿. 𝗖𝗿𝗶𝘀 𝗘𝗱𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗙. 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗷𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻
Research Coordinator
School of Civil, Environmental, and Geological, Engineering
Mapúa University

𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗿. 𝗝𝗼𝗵𝗻 𝗘𝘂𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗲 𝗙𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗲𝘇
Water Resources Development Manager
Manila Water Company Inc.

Save the date, clear your schedule, and join us for this immersive exploration of STREAM!
📅 Date: November 20, 2023
🕒 Time: 9:00 AM onwards
🔗 Registration: Secure your spot today by registering at ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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#STREAMWebinar #WaterResources
✍ by: Marialyn Mores

November 4, 2023November 10, 2024

RSU team launches UNICESS in Sibuyan, intalls Loren Ambassadors

President Mani, members of the RSU Main and various campuses, and LGU partner agencies joined forces in the final launching program of the University Community Empowerment through Sustainable Services (UNICESS) program at Lumbang Weste Covered Court in Sibuyan Island, Romblon.

Spearheaded by President Mani, the UNICESS program is an initiative of the Romblon State University that aims to foster deeper relationships with isolated and remote communities in the islands of Romblon.

The RSU faculty conducted focus group discussions (FGDs) with various demographic groups such as mothers, fathers, children, teens, and solo parents.

Questions were anchored on the four specific domains of the program namely: health, education, environment, and livelihood.

After the conduct of the FGD, the Memorandum of Agreement was signed by the RSU top officials and LGU partners including Head of Barangay, Hon. Carlos Galang, SK Chairperson, Hon. Milky Rey, and IPMR-SB, Hon. Lydia Regla Raet, along with chieftains of three selected houshold clusters, Panaguintingan – Chieftain Antonieto Rabino, Haguimit – Chieftain Ramon Regala, and Guin-Alan – Chieftain Daniel Reaño.

Pres. Mani delivered a message to thank the willingness of the community to open their doors to the RSU for the conduct of UNICESS.

“This is not the end of the UNICESS program. This is just the beginning. You can count on us to go back and become your partners in building and developing your communities,” said Pres. Mani.

Also in attendance was the municipal mayor of Cajidiocan, Hon. Marvin Greggy Royo Ramos, who expressed his profound gratitude to the RSU community for extending their support to the IP communities in Sibuyan, stressing that this extension service is instrumental to nation building and cultural preservation.

One of the highlights of the program was the conduct of the project “Munting Basura ay Ibulsa,” in which all members of the program received candy and lollipops and simultaneously placed wrappers in their respective pockets to symbolize proper waste disposal in their respective communities.

The university also distributed food packs containing coffee sachets, five kilos of rice, and medicines among 200 beneficiaries divided among three clusters.

As a part of the UNICESS launching, RSU also installed 10 new ambassadors for the LOREN project, which stands for “Leveraging Opportunities for a Resilient and Eco-Friendly Nation: A Green Philippines Initiative.”

The LOREN ambassadors will fulfill their responsibilities related to the LOREN thrusts of the programs, namely: Land Restoration and Conservation, Ocean Protection and Conservation, Renewable Energy Promotion, Environmental Education and Awareness, Natural Resource Management.

The UNICESS program began its series of launches in December 2021 with a series of launching programs in various remote locations, such as (1) Puro Island in Sta. Fe, (2) Cabibihan in Calatrava, (3) Dayongdong in San Agustin, (4) Pinamihagan in San Jose, (5) Cobrador in Romblon, with its final location in Sitio Panaguintingan, Sibuyan.

The second phase of the UNICESS program is envisioned to take place in the first quarter of 2024, in which the lead committee heads will present the findings of the FGDs, lay down projects and programs for the beneficiaries, and delegate roles and committees to all participating colleges and units.