UB CCJ Takes Research to the Asian Criminology Conference 2025 in Australia
Institutionalizing the culture of research within the UB community, the University of Bohol College of Criminal Justice (CCJ) elevated its scholarly engagement through its participation in the 16th Annual Conference of the Asian Criminological Society, held at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in Brisbane, Australia, on December 3–5, 2025. With the theme “Translational and Transnational Criminology,” the international research forum focused on innovative scholarly ventures in law enforcement and criminal justice. It served as a significant academic platform for presenting research that bridges local community realities with broader regional and global criminological frameworks. Representing the University of Bohol College of Criminal Justice were Dr. Shirley Ochea-Molina, College Dean, together with student research presenters Sophia Antoinne L. Gantalao, a third-year student, and Paul Patrick O. Molina, a second-year student. Alongside other Filipino delegates, the UB CCJ team joined researchers, academics, professionals, and students from various Asian countries, with the Philippines emerging as the largest national contingent. The conference was also actively supported and participated in by officials of the Professional Criminologists Association of the Philippines (PCAP), underscoring the country’s strong presence in regional criminological discourse. As part of the conference’s transnational criminology exposure, participants visited the Queen Elizabeth II Courts of Law and the Queensland Police Headquarters and Museum. A notable feature of the Queensland Courts is the extensive use of a jury system in criminal trials—an approach rarely practiced in the Philippine justice system. Also highlighted were the Supreme Court Library’s accessibility to self-represented litigants and the efficient trial scheduling systems displayed in the court lobby. The Court proudly upholds the maxim Audax et Fidelis—“Bold but Faithful.” Meanwhile, the Queensland Police Museum (QPM) offered an engaging learning experience through its 25 interactive displays featuring various policing themes. Through archival materials, exhibitions, and public programs, the QPM provided a compelling comparative perspective on policing practices, past and present. The remaining days of the conference remained highly productive, featuring insightful keynote addresses and parallel breakout sessions. These sessions explored major criminological research areas, including Digital and Cyber Crime; Drugs and Crime; Critical Criminology; Green Criminology; Global and Comparative Criminology; Gendered Violence; Policing and Crime Prevention; State and Political Crime; Theoretical Debates; Youth Justice; Gender and Sexuality; Justice Programs; Corrections; and Teaching in Criminology. This meaningful academic exposure opened valuable opportunities to further advance criminal justice education and research, while reaffirming the University of Bohol’s core values of scholarship, character, and service. (Sophia Antoinne L. Gantalao)
UB’s “March for Truth” Calls for Good Governance
Amid the ongoing political and economic challenges confronting the country, the University of Bohol took a historic stride in strengthening social awareness through its March for Truth held on December 10, 2025, at the Victoriano B. Tirol Jr. Sports Complex, Taloto District, Tagbilaran City. Grounded in the virtues of scholarship, character, and service, the institution aspires to remain a moral compass—steadfast in truth, justice, and ethical leadership. With good governance as the foundation of a responsive and effective institution, UB emphasized that transparency and accountability must remain at its core. UB executives, led by President Dr. Victoriano B. Tirol III, took turns presenting the academe’s perspectives on the current national situation. President Tirol urged government leaders to serve with integrity, transparency, and accountability. Equally compelling were the messages from student leaders and alumni, who shared their insights and encouraged the Boholano community to remain vigilant and actively engaged. Atty. Greg Austral, CPA, Dean of the College of Law, provided a scholarly discussion on legal jurisprudence and the constitutional requirements in handling cases—particularly those involving corruption—before an individual can be convicted. He emphasized that the country already has sufficient laws to ensure accountability in government transactions. He reminded participants that, beyond peaceful rallies, no person can be convicted unless guilt is proven beyond reasonable doubt. Thus, he underscored the need for concrete evidence and the courage of witnesses with direct knowledge to voluntarily come forward and testify. Other resource persons included Atty. Marlumin B. Teh, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Ms. Ria Eva M. Sevilla, Vice President for Administration; Dr. Maricel A. Tirol, Vice President for Finance; and Ms. Marjorie Dumo from the College of Science and Education. Representing the students were Sophia Antoinne Lafuente Gantalao (SSG Student Leader), Lee Rafaela Noble (CSO Student Leader), Jonzie Vinas (SSG President), and Jerylouie Urs Iter (Alumni Representative). Interspersed between the speakers were intermission performances by Josh Camilotes, who sang Tatsulok, and Chad Greyson Flores, Mr. UB Personality 2025, who delivered an oral declamation. Following the program, participants, led by school administrators, took part in an actual march around the oval. The event was hosted by Mr. James Emmanuel Tabigue, Marketing Head and OIC of the Community Extension Services Office. (Leo Armando B. Boncales)
UBohol Celebrates 55th Charter Day with Gratitude
Looking back with deep reverence and profound gratitude to the pioneers who laid its foundation, the University of Bohol commemorated its 55th Charter Day on December 11, 2025, at the University Main Campus. In a simple yet meaningful ceremony, administrators, faculty, staff, and students gathered at the campus quadrangle for a flag-raising and wreath-laying rite, followed by a brief commemorative program. To avoid further disruptions brought about by recent weather-related class cancellations, the University suspended classes only for the duration of the ceremony. In his Charter Day message, UB President Dr. Victoriano B. Tirol III honored the steadfast dedication of the institution’s early leaders, who selflessly shared their time, talents, and vision to realize the Boholano people’s aspiration for accessible and quality education. As the fifth president of the University, Dr. Tirol recalled the prophetic words of the late Philippine President Carlos P. Garcia, who once declared that the establishment of the University of Bohol marked a remarkable milestone in the region’s history. Dr. Tirol also emphasized that celebrating the University’s annual Charter Day is, above all, an act of thanksgiving to God. He reminded the UB community that the occasion serves as a constant call not to rest on past achievements but to strive for even greater heights—breathing life and vigor into the mission and vision of this beloved institution. On a lighter note befitting the holiday season, Dr. Tirol encouraged the UB community to remain hopeful and positive despite challenges. “Amid diverse opinions and beliefs, let us strive to build bridges, not walls,” he emphasized, reminding everyone that happiness remains within reach when unity and goodwill prevail. The Charter Day program also revisited the University’s rich history. In 1946, as the nation was rebuilding from the devastation of World War II, a group of visionary and civic-minded Boholano leaders founded Rafael Palma College, named after the distinguished scholar, Dr. Rafael Palma. On December 11, 1970, Atty. Victoriano D. Tirol, Sr. was installed as the first University President—a historic moment that marked the institution’s official transformation into the University of Bohol. The renaming stood as a testament to the Boholanos’ enduring regard for education as a priceless heritage that no adversity could diminish. (Leo Armando B. Boncales)
Holiday Notice for the Feast of the Immaculate Concepcion 2025
In observance of the Feast of the Immaculate Concepcion, the University of Bohol will have no classes, and offices will be unavailable for official transactions on Monday, December 8, 2025. Online and onsite transactions will resume on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. For your direction and guidance. (SGD) DR. VICTORIANO B. TIROL III University President
UB Pres. Tirol Commends Nursing Topnotchers
In recognition of their exemplary achievements, UB President Dr. Victoriano B. Tirol III personally welcomed and commended Mikah H. Ofamin and Earlgen A. Bucog, who ranked 9th and 10th, respectively, in the November 2025 Philippine Nurse Licensure Examination (PNLE). Accompanied by Dean Myrna B. Bernaldez of the College of Allied Health Sciences (CAHS), the two topnotchers—who are also proud graduates of the UB Senior High School—paid a courtesy visit to the University President and the Vice President for Finance, Dr. Maricel A. Tirol, at the President’s Office on December 2, 2025. The University of Bohol achieved an overall passing rate of 93%, with a 96.15% passing rate for first-time takers—both surpassing the national passing rate of 90.04%. Notably, beginning in 2024, the UB Nursing Department partnered with the renowned TopRank Review Academy to further strengthen graduates’ readiness for the Nursing Licensure Examination. This Manila-based review center is widely recognized for its exceptional performance in preparing students for licensure examinations. (Leo Armando Boncales)
Holiday Notice – December 1, 2025
In recognition of the exemplary efforts demonstrated during the University Days 2025 celebration, and by virtue of the authority vested in me as President, the University of Bohol shall observe a holiday on Monday, December 1, 2025. In the interest of avoiding disruption to previously scheduled activities, the University allows all institutional and departmental curricular events to proceed as planned. Essential offices are likewise directed to remain open to support these activities and ensure smooth operations. Normal business operations and academic activities will resume on Tuesday, December 2, 2025. (SGD.) DR. VICTORIANO B. TIROL III University President
PSA Honors UBohol for Support to National Statistical Survey
In grateful recognition of the University of Bohol’s unwavering support and cooperation in the conduct of the 2025 Quarterly Survey of Philippine Business and Industry (QSPBI), the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) honored the institution during the QSBI Regional Respondent’s Forum held on November 10, 2025, in One Central Hotel and Suites, Cebu City, Cebu. The award highlights the University’s steadfast participation in PSA surveys and data collection initiatives, which have significantly contributed to the agency’s efforts in producing and disseminating reliable official statistics used to monitor and evaluate the country’s economic performance. As a learning institution, UB commits itself to supporting the government in providing timely and accurate economic indicators that guide policy formulation and decision-making, and promote evidence-based planning and governance grounded in transparency, accountability, and informed judgment. UB believes that through the consistent and up-to-date submission of quarterly reports to the PSA, it can help advance both economic development and good governance in the country. The efficient and timely submission of these reports also supports research-based interventions aimed at addressing the needs of both public and private stakeholders. The recognition was personally presented by Wilma A. Perante, Director II and Officer-in-Charge, Regional Director of PSA–RSSO 7, to the University of Bohol, representative Ms. Marieson D. Israel. Notably, UB was one of the few awardees in Bohol. The Philippine Statistics Authority serves as the government’s central statistical agency, responsible for collecting, compiling, and publishing official data on the nation’s economic, social, demographic, and political affairs—ensuring accurate information for sound policy and decision-making. (Leo Armando Boncales)
Public Notice for the UB CPG Carpark Repair and Rehabilitation Project
Public Notice for the UB CPG Carpark Repair and Rehabilitation Project The UB CPG Carpark Repair and Rehabilitation Project will commence on Monday, November 17, 2025. This initiative is part of the University’s continuous efforts to enhance campus facilities for the UB school community. Some areas will be temporarily closed and will have limited access and capacity during the project implementation. For information and guidance. – University of Bohol Management
Public Notice for the Conduct of Earthquake Drill
Public Notice for the Conduct of Earthquake Drill The University of Bohol is set to conduct an Earthquake Drill on November 19, 2025 (Wednesday) at 10:45 in the morning. At precisely 10:45 AM, an alarm or long buzzer will sound repeatedly, signaling the commencement of the drill. We kindly ask the general public, especially those residing near the UB Main Campus, to remain calm as this is merely an Earthquake Drill. Employees, students, and clients will proceed to designated exit points located at the Main Gate, Founders Gate, and ST Bldg Gate along Dr. Cecilio Putong St.; CPG Car Park, facing the Bohol Cultural Center; ST Bldg Gate along Remolador St.; and Diamond Bldg Ground Floor Gate along Palma St. Your cooperation and understanding during this exercise are greatly appreciated. – University of Bohol Management
Suspension of Classes on November 10 and 11, 2025
Pursuant to Memorandum Circular No. 106 issued by the Office of the President of the Republic of the Philippines, classes at all levels in the University of Bohol are hereby suspended on November 10 and 11, 2025.However, university offices shall remain open to ensure the continuity of essential operations and services.Everyone is advised to stand by for further announcements regarding any updates or additional directives that may be issued by the national or local government. Please keep safe and take necessary precautions. For guidance and compliance. (SGD) DR. VICTORIANO B. TIROL III University President
