UB Strands of Love Marks Its Second Year of Giving
After the successful launch of Strands of Love in October 2024, the University of Bohol (UB), in partnership with the Alturas Group of Companies (AGC), once again made waves with another hair donation campaign held on October 3, 2025, at the Instructional Media Center (IMC), UB Main Campus. The event drew overwhelming support, with 59 volunteers, predominantly students, contributing to the hair donation drive. The donated hair will be crafted into wigs for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, helping restore their confidence and sense of normalcy during a difficult journey. The University of Bohol continues its collaboration with Kythe Foundation, Incorporated—a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of hospitalized children battling cancer and other chronic illnesses. In her message, Dr. Maricel Tirol, UB Vice President for Finance, emphasized the noble cause of the movement and its impact on humanity. Drawing from her personal experience with her aunt and sister, Dr. Tirol highlighted the importance of individual support for cancer patients, noting that cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in the country, ranking third overall in the Philippines. She further underscored that it takes ten bundles of hairloom to create a single wig – a meaningful, valuable, and life-changing, especially when turned into wigs for cancer patients. As a cancer-free advocate, Dr. Tirol commended the students for their voluntary support and urged them to sustain their commitment to the advocacy. Also in attendance were Ms. Ria Eva M. Sevilla, Vice President for Administration; Dr. Lemuel O. Belarmino, Dean of Student/Personnel Services; and Dr. Golda T. Olaivar, School Physician. The day’s program also featured a Cancer Awareness Symposium with Dr. Charmie Gail G. Torrefranca of the Department of General Surgery, Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center (GCGMMC). Her discussion focused on raising awareness about cancer while promoting the values of selflessness and compassion. The second Strands of Love event was held alongside the university’s Guidance Day celebration, dubbed “PAG-AGAK”—a day devoted to promoting mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being within the campus community. The occasion also coincided with the Teachers’ Day Celebration. (Leo Armando Boncales)
UB Holds Pag-agak 2025 Wellness Symposium
In its commitment to fostering a healthier, more motivated, and resilient workforce, the University of Bohol (UB), through the Office of Student/Personnel Services, conducted a Wellness Symposium for employees and students on October 3, 2025, at the UB Instructional Research Center (IRC). Pag-agak 2025 – A Guidance Celebration emphasized not only individual well-being but also the promotion of holistic health, productivity, and workplace harmony for the benefit of the entire UB community. The one-day activity began with a Holy Mass and a formal program, highlighted by the introduction of Peer Facilitators, UB Likas, and various Campus Student Organizations. This was followed by trivia games, challenges, and the opening of themed booths, including: Stressed is Desserts – offering free sweet delicacies; Disconnect to Connect – encouraging offline bonding by communicating friends without mobile phones; Doodle Your Stress Away – a creative space to draw, doodle, or craft whenever feeling stressed, restless, or bored; Mental Health Hub – providing resources and information on stress management, anxiety, mindfulness, and time management; Sleeping Booth – a cozy spot for a quick nap. Film Showing – classroom-based mini theaters showcasing five different films throughout the day; Sing Your Stress Away – giving participants the chance to grab a microphone and sing their hearts out; Free Hugs – promoting calmness and relaxation by releasing oxytocin, also known as the “cuddle hormone”; Aromatherapy Corner – a relaxing space to de-stress and immerse in soothing fragrances; Express Your Gratitude – a gratitude wall where participants could share notes of appreciation for both big and small blessings; and Brave Spirits – featuring a roulette of affirmations, challenges, and “spiritual food.” At 3:00 p.m., guest speaker Mr. John Velden Lim delivered an inspiring talk on “Do It Afraid” at the UB Gymnasium, attended by school administrators, teaching personnel, deans and principals, office heads, non-teaching staff, and students. The celebration also featured lively activities such as Zumba, praise and worship, and relaxing treats like free massages—creating a fun, engaging, and wellness-centered atmosphere for all participants. (Leo Armando Boncales)
Advancing Test Quality and Learning Outcomes through Item Analysis Training: Key Highlights
The Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs (OVPAA) successfully spearheaded the training of administrators and selected faculty on the quantitative and qualitative analysis of test items last September 18 -19, 2025. The training was facilitated by Dr. Mardy Verano, Executive Director of Edustudio Learning Review and Training Services, who shared expert insights, practical strategies, and evidence-based approaches in item analysis. Assessment plays a vital role in ensuring instructional quality and student success. Yet the effectiveness of any test relies not only on the accuracy of its content but also on the quality of its items. The seminar-workshop empowered participants to transform raw test data into actionable insights for continuous quality improvement in teaching and learning, which are key skills that advance both academic rigor and learner achievement. By systematically applying item analysis, faculty can refine assessment tools, ensure fairness, and reinforce the alignment between intended learning outcomes and actual student performance. As a priority project of the University, this initiative affirms the institution’s commitment to advancing Outcomes-Based Education (OBE) by strengthening assessment practices that directly measure student learning outcomes. By institutionalizing this initiative, the University affirms the importance of valid and reliable assessment in the OBE framework, thereby fostering more effective teaching, stronger learning outcomes, and a culture of academic excellence. (Dr. Marilou V. Fudalan)
UB, DepEd Tagbilaran City Division Team Up for Learners’ Convergence 2025
The University of Bohol (UB), in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) Tagbilaran City Division, successfully hosted the Tagbilaran City Division Learners’ Convergence 2025, a two-day leadership gathering held on September 16–17, 2025 at Reyna’s The Haven and Garden, Calceta Street, Cogon District, Tagbilaran City. The event brought together elementary and high school student leaders, along with their advisers, representing the city’s public schools. UB and DepEd Collaboration The convergence was made possible through DepEd’s invitation, coordinated by its dynamic Youth Formation Coordinator, Mrs. Joermelyne P. Pasilbas. Leading UB’s core facilitation team were Sofila L. Gantalao, JD, Principal of UB VDTALC Senior High School; Engr. Lemuel O. Belarmino, Ph.D., Dean, Student Personnel Services; and Mr. James Emmanuel Tabigue, UB Marketing Head, concurrent OIC CESO Head. They were ably supported by UB Guidance Counselors Quicy Mae Catalonia, Jessel S. Bacarisas, and Asherah Joy C. Francia, while UBSSG leaders Jessa Christie A. Tajale, Princess Marielle A. Tajale, Lee Rafaela G. Noble and Andrea O. Talosig added youthful energy as volunteers and animators throughout the sessions with Mrs. Elaine Joyce G. Diez taking charge of technical and incidental needs. Nurturing Young Leaders for Nation-Building With the theme of cultivating values-based leadership, DIVISION LEARNCON 2025 sought to strengthen leadership skills, foster collaboration, and instill a culture of service among the youth toward the greater goal of nation-building. A Dynamic Lineup of Sessions The convergence featured transformative sessions facilitated by Team UB. Engr. Lemuel O. Belarmino, Ph.D., opened with “Start Young, Lead Strong!”—a call to plant the seed of leadership for nation-building. UB VDTALC Senior High Faculty Vince Anquilero, MA-Soc Sci, and Micah Bornea, LPT, followed with “From Ideas to Impact: Lead with Design!” highlighting the power of design thinking. James Emmanuel Tabigue then shared “Leadership that Moves,” underscoring leadership as service. Rounding out the sessions were Jay Mar J. Masibay, LPT, with “Leadership in the Social Media Era,” and Charisse Dianne A. Araco, LPT, with “Integrity in Budget Appropriation.” The event culminated with the much-anticipated Project Pitch Competition, where student leaders showcased their creativity, innovation, and passion for leadership through impactful proposals. Moving Forward DepEd Tagbilaran City Division officials expressed deep gratitude to UB for its unwavering collaboration, emphasizing that the convergence aligned perfectly with their mission of empowering learners to become responsive and proactive citizens while team UB was honored to share to all DepEd public schools the transformative power of Scholarship, Character, Service and Leadership in the field of student governance. The Learners’ Convergence 2025 concluded with a shared commitment from UB and DepEd to continue nurturing the next generation of leaders. Special recognition is extended to UB President Dr. Victoriano B. Tirol III, DepEd Tagbilaran City Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Wilfreda D. Bongalos, CESO V, and SGOD Chief Maurine C. Castaño for their steadfast leadership and support in advancing the shared vision of educational excellence through youth leadership initiatives. (Sophia Antoinne L. Gantalao)
UB VDTALC Alumnus to Represent PH at Asian Aquatics in India
Boholano bemedalled swimmer Rian Marco A. Tirol, former team captain of the University of Bohol (UB) Swimming Rockets and proud alumnus of the University of Bohol – Victoriano D. Tirol Advanced Learning Center (UB VDTALC), is set to represent the Philippines in the 11th Asian Aquatics Championship (AAC) 2025 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, from September 28 to October 12, 2025. A breaststroke specialist, Tirol holds two Philippine national records, five University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) records, two Palarong Pambansa records, and one Batang Pinoy record. He also previously captained the Ateneo Fast Swimming Team. Currently, he is pursuing his master’s degree in Business Administration at Ateneo de Manila University. Early in his elementary years at UB VDTALC, the young Tirol honed his swimming skills in the institution’s Olympic-size swimming pool, where the sport formed part of the school curriculum. UB VDTALC has long been recognized for producing caliber athletes who have set records at the local, regional, and national levels. Tirol will compete alongside five other elite Filipino swimmers as part of the 10-member Philippine delegation, which also includes divers and artistic swimmers. The official roster was confirmed in a memorandum issued by Philippine Aquatics, Inc. The delegation will be headed by Dick Victor Carmona, with coaching support from Ramil Ilustre (swimming), Xiaofeng Cui and Marie Antoinette Dimanche (diving), and Maria Graciella Jasmina Sanchez (artistic swimming). The Asian Aquatics Championship, held every four years, is a premier continental event featuring swimming, diving, and artistic swimming under the governance of Asia Aquatics and sanctioned by World Aquatics (formerly FINA). Performances will be recorded in the official World Aquatics database, with athletes earning points that contribute to their world rankings. The tournament also serves as a qualification pathway for future international competitions, including the 2026 World Championships and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, ensuring that the best Asian athletes compete on the global stage. (Leo Armando Boncales)
UB Lends a Hand, Donates Armchairs to SJB Academy in Garcia Hernandez
In line with its commitment to corporate social responsibility, the University of Bohol, through its Community Extension Services Office, donated 145 pre-owned student armchairs to St. John the Baptist Academy (SJBA) in Garcia Hernandez, Bohol. The donation was officially turned over by University President Dr. Victoriano B. Tirol III and gratefully received on behalf of SJBA by its School Principal, Mr. Ramon Caresosa, a distinguished alumnus of UB’s Teachers College. Underscoring the value of complementarity among schools in the province, the University of Bohol continues to extend both academic and non-academic support to public and private institutions as well as partner organizations. These interventions are carried out in collaboration with the Department of Education–Division of Bohol, the Tagbilaran City Division, the Bohol Association of Catholic Schools (BACS), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh) , Department of Health (DOH), Philippines Nurses Association (PNA) , Rural Health Units, Center for Youth Development Office (CYDO), Department of Tourism (DOT) , Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and civic organizations. Presently, UB’s adopted communities include LGU Libertad; Libertad Elementary School in Baclayon; LGU Cortes; Dela Paz Elementary School in Cortes; Barangay Poblacion (East and West) in Alburquerque; LGU Dauis, Barangay Songculan in Dauis; Lourdes Elementary School in Cortes; LGU Alburquerque; Barangay Guiwanon in Baclayon; Barangay Concepcion in Loay; Barangay Bayacabac in Maribojoc; Barangay Manga in Tagbilaran City; LGU Tagbilaran, and Bayacabac Elementary School in Maribojoc. Most recently, the Finance Department of the University has also formally adopted Canhuyopon Elementary School in Duero. (Leo Armando Boncales)
Strengthening Academic Excellence by Capacitating Educators for a Transformative Future
The University warmly welcomed its 16 new faculty members through a two-day Training for Newly Hired Teachers held on September 8–9, 2025. The program was designed to prepare them for the dynamic demands of teaching by providing tools, strategies, and innovative approaches in teaching-learning. Day 1 tackled classroom management, lesson crafting with Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) and Outcomes-Based Education (OBE), research-based instructional strategies, the art of questioning, and the use of AI in teaching, while Day 2 focused on 21st-century syllabi and lesson design, innovative teaching strategies, test construction, table of specifications, item analysis, and output presentations. The training was officially opened and meaningfully concluded with inspiring messages from Atty. Marlumina B. Teh, Vice President for Academic Affairs. More than just a training, the two-day event served as a platform for collaboration and professional growth, ensuring that newly hired teachers are ready to contribute meaningfully to the University’s vision of transforming lives for a great future. (Dr. Marilou V. Fudalan)
UB Karatedo Team Bags Medals in International Tournament
Adding another feather to its cap, the University of Bohol Karatedo Team showcased its skill and determination on the international stage, clinching one silver and seven bronze medals at the 6th MV Karatedo Philippines and International Championship 2025, held on August 22–24, 2025 at the Velodrome in Tagaytay City. Leading the medal haul was Johanne Khiro De Leon, who secured a silver medal, while fellow karatekas contributed to the bronze tally: Keiden Chantel Ellaine Kelk – 3 bronze medals, Leanna Marie Alvarez – 1 bronze medal, Csar Ezekiel Dosdos – 1 bronze medal, Eveline Van Der Hoek – 1 bronze medal, and Stiffany Mae Alvarez – 1 bronze medal. The hotly contested tournament drew the participation of national teams from Japan, Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, New Zealand, and India. On the home front, the Philippines was represented by 1,250 athletes from different regions across the country, making the UB team’s achievement a remarkable feat. Presently, the University Karatedo Team is under the guidance and mentorship of Sensei Sonny Alvarez. (Leo Armando Boncales)
UB Student Government Hosts Annual Himamat: Celebrating Unity in Diversity
In a vibrant celebration of campus culture, the University of Bohol Supreme Student Government (UBSSG) hosted the annual Himamat — a traditional meet-and-greet that welcomes new students with a legacy walk while rekindling school spirit among resident students through music, fun, and unity. Held on August 29, 2025, at the vast Victoriano B. Tirol Jr. Sports Complex in the UB VDTALC Campus, the celebration showcased the annual recruitment of student organizations to welcome new members, foster camaraderie, and boost school pride. Carrying the theme Chromatopia X Panagdait Fair, the event underscored unity of purpose amid student diversity and ran from 12 noon until 9:00 in the evening. During the occasion , members of the academic and administrative councils were introduced including the national and provincial officials of the student government. Speaking before an enthusiastic audience, UB President Dr. Victoriano B. Tirol III emphasized that Himamat is not only a celebration of heritage but also an invitation to explore the unknown, discover new passions, and embrace the transformative power of community. He reminded students and administrators alike that they are more than individuals striving for academic excellence—they are a collective force, united in purpose and capable of creating meaningful, positive change. Tirol further remarked that the true essence of a vibrant community lies in its ability to welcome differences, value one another’s stories, and stand united in the face of challenges. “Just as Chromatopia—a world alive with colors—brings students together to rejoice, connect, and learn, we too unite in harmony through education, understanding, and friendship,” he added. This year’s annual Himamat celebration also served as the students’ general assembly and acquaintance party. (Leo Armando Boncales)
UB’s New Presidential Scholarship Program Admits 22 Scholars
A total of twenty-two students have been formally admitted into the University of Bohol’s (UB) newly established Presidential Scholarship Program (PSP) after successfully meeting the stringent requirements and passing the intensive screening interviews conducted by the University’s Scholarship Committee. The admission was formally sealed during the Presidential Scholarship Program Orientation and Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing held on August 29, 2025, at the University Instructional Resource Center (IRC). During the ceremony, the scholars, along with their parents and guardians, entered into an official agreement with the University administration. Under the MOA, a full scholarship is granted to qualified students who excel academically but are economically challenged, giving them renewed hope to complete the course of their choice. Unlike other existing school scholarship programs, the new Presidential Scholarship provides distinct, broader and more comprehensive benefits. In his message, UB President Dr. Victoriano B. Tirol III recalled the battle cry of his grandfather and UB’s first president, Atty. Victoriano B. Tirol Sr., who championed the cause of “education for the masses.” He honored the late president as the visionary behind the pioneering work-scholar program of the then Rafael Palma College, now the University of Bohol—a program that helped produce distinguished leaders and professionals in both government and private sectors across the globe. Addressing the scholars and their families, Dr. Tirol reminded them that “every opportunity comes with responsibility.” He emphasized that being named a Presidential Scholar is a privilege that entails diligence, responsibility, and a commitment to the conditions outlined in the MOA. On a more personal note, the youthful president urged the scholars to believe in themselves, keep their faith, and never lose sight of their dreams. He also encouraged parents and guardians for their unwavering support and called for their continued collaboration with the University in guiding the scholars toward academic excellence and holistic success. The program was graced by the presence of Atty. Marlumina B. Teh, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Ms. Ria Eva M. Sevilla, Vice President for Administration; Dr. Maricel A. Tirol, Vice President for Finance; Dr. Lemuel O. Belarmino, Dean of Student/Personnel Services; Mr. James Emmanuel Tabigue, Head of the Marketing Department and Concurrent OIC of the Community Extension Services Office; Ms. Edeza Maslog-Tabigue, Scholarship and Employment Facilitation Officer; Mr. Rogemer G. Ojendras, Internal Auditor; Mr. Leo Armando B. Boncales, Alumni Affairs and Public Relations Officer; Mrs. Merry Grace S, Sumampong, Head, Guidance Counselors Office; and Ms. Francis Mae Trabajo, Psychometrician. The signing of the MOA was also witnessed by Dean James P. Uy of the College of Engineering Technology, Architecture and Fine Arts; Dean Myrna B. Bernaldez of the College of Allied Health Sciences; Dean Jane Doren A. Bungabong of the College of Hospitality Management, Tourism, Nutrition and Dietetics ; and Dean Karen C. Labor of the College of Business and Accountancy. Notably, UB already offers a wide range of scholarships and discounts, including the Employee’s Schooling Privilege, Employees’ Legal Dependent Privilege, Dependent’s Academic Excellence Privilege, Family Relations Discount, Loyalty Awardee Scholarship Privilege, Athletic Scholarship Program, Leadership Scholarship Privilege, Student Assistant Scholarship Program, Mr. & Miss UB Personality, Academic Scholarship Program, Creative Staff Scholarship Program, as well as scholarships funded by government and private institutions. (Leo Armando Boncales)
