Communitas 2010 Issue for PDF File.pmd - University of San Agustin

June 2010
Communitas

June 2010
UNIVERSITY OF SAN AGUSTIN
Iloilo City
Vision
A community of one mind and heart affirming its position as an
excellent center of humanistic, Christian-Augustinian education, committed
to promote the common good and the transformation of the
person and society.
Mission
The University of San Agustin is a Catholic-Augustinian educational
institution that aims to propagate the Gospel of Christ and the ideals
of St. Augustine to the youth and the people of the Western Visayas
region, the Filipino nation and the world. It is committed to:
1. Provide research-based, innovative and fulfilling education;
2. Enhance the diversity and vitality of its research and
extension initiatives;
3. Build partnerships and promote effective governance;
4. Provide a wholesome atmosphere for an excellent teaching
and learning experience in its campuses; and
5. Enhance the competency and welfare of its human
resources.
Jigger S. Latoza
Executive Editor
Mona V. Pico
Editor
Teresita Silma S. Balgos
Ronelia C. Lacson
Ritchie G. Bayuran
Nancy F. Latumbo
Marjorie S. Carisma
Arlene M. Moscaya
Rodalyn E. Daylo
Jazzie Jane C. Pama
Rojane A. Deleña
James V. Pedregosa
Eric C. Divinagracia
John Paul J. Petrola
Lucio T. Encio
Antonia M. Perales
Asuncion L. Faro
Lorena B. Salazar
Gemma B. Halili
Maribuen G. Salmorin
Ma. Alma S. Hermo
Joyliet S. Velez
Ma. Eden O. Yap-Aguirra
Information Coordinators/Contributors
Noel G. de Leon
Staff Photographer
Samuel A. Dela Cruz
Lay-out Artist
Carmen G. Dureza
Circulation Manager/Associate Editor
Fr. Raul M. Marchan, O.S.A.
Editorial Consultant
Communitas is published by the University of San Agustin, Iloilo City,
through its Coordinating Center for Research and Publications.
Address all communications to:
USA Coordinating Center for Research and Publications
5 th Level Fray Luis de Leon Building
University of San Agustin
General Luna St.
5000 Iloilo City, Philippines
Tel. Nos. (033) 337-7716 and (033) 337-4841 to 44 loc. 242
Fax. No. (033) 337-7716
E-mail: usa.research@yahoo.com.ph
Communitas
IN THIS ISSUE
FROM THE PRESIDENT ........................ page 01
NEW ....................................... page
02
� Augustinian tops LET 2009 � USA is 3rd best nursing school
in WV � University ranks 9th in CE board exam ‘09 � CoEd
regains Level III accreditation �CBAA mentor is outstanding
business educator � Augustinian accredited as psychometrician �
Med tech students win best oral paper in microbio � CN opens
first virtual lab in Panay � Biology eagles grab reg’l bio quiz
championship � USA ROTC wins reg’l speech title � USAGIASA
is ICSAA fellowship overall champ � Augustinian mentor speaks in
PCQACL nat’l confab � Outstanding engineer addresses 2010
graduates �
ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ................. page 11
� Administration releases employee TIP share � Pharmacy lab in
full-swing � University names 45 service awardees � HRD
conducts 2 summer 2010 seminar-workshops � Math profs attend
int’l conference � 4 Ford fellows boost USA faculty �
RESEARCH AND PUBLICATIONS .................. page 14
� Libro Agustino books in library of top institutions �UCRP now
registered with NBDB � HR bueau holds 7th justice and peace
forum � UCRP engaged as AIM Policy Center research partner
anew �
OFF-THE-PRESS ............................. page 16
PARTNERSHIPS AND EXTENSION ................. page 17
� HR bureau conducts forum on youth rights � USA hosts 2010
mayorables forum � Tilipunan publishes ‘Little-big things in service’
� Community service volunteer is Metrobank finalist � Tilipunan
salutes 30-year teacher-volunteer � 6th “Salamat Tilipunan, Salamat
Aganan” art exhibit mounted � CAS leads Tilipunan computer
literacy project � CSC ‘Food for the Soul’ project launched
�PMT prof in extension and research activities �
AT-A-GLANCE ................................ page 22
CULTURE AND ARTS........................... page 31
� USA Kawilihan is Ani ng Dangal awardee � Agustinian wins
poetry interpretation stilt � UCRP holds 8th San Agustin writing
fellowship � USALT in nat’l arts fest � USA performing arts
group in Lihok Bisaya ‘09 � Augustinians host, shine in 44th
ILOPRISAA meet �
ANNOUNCEMENTS ............................ page 35
ALUMNI UPDATES ............................ page 38
�CAS holds pre-diamond jubilee � USAAA launches search for
most updated alumni directory � Some Lessons on Leadership �
ON THE COVER
Urdaneta Hall. On the cover is a replica of the southern-most wall of
the newly-renovated Urdaneta Hall, facing the Blanco Park. It houses
the Auditorium, Archives and Museum, Clinical Laboratory, Med Tech
Laboratory, Dental and Medical Clinics and the Nursing Review
Room.

June 2010
Communitas

June 2010
University University of of San San Agustin
Agustin
GRADUATE GRADUATE SCHOOL
SCHOOL
• Doctor of Philosophy in Education*
(Educational Management, Psychology and Guidance)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology
• Doctor of Business Management
• Master of Arts in Education*
(Catechetics, Chemistry, Educational Management, English, Filipino,
Mathematics, Natural Science, Pastoral Ministry, Physics, Pre-School,
Religious Education, Social Science, Special Education)
• Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling
• Master of Arts in Literature
• Master of Arts in Nursing
• Master of Arts in Philosophy (Augustine)
• Master of Arts in Psychology
• Master of Arts in Religious Studies
• Master of Arts in Teaching Augustine
• Master of Business Administration*
• Master in Public Administration
• Master of Science in Economics
• Master of Management in Human Resource Management
• Master of Science in Medical Technology
• Master in Nursing
*PAASCU Accredited
COLLEGE COLLEGE OF OF EDUCATION
EDUCATION
(PAASCU Accredited)
• Bachelor of Elementary Education
(General Curriculum, Pre-School Education, Special Education)
• Bachelor of Secondary Education
(English, Filipino, Mathematics, Physical Education, Health,
Music and Arts (PEHMA), Social Studies, Values Education)
• Bachelor of Library and Information Science
• Bachelor in Educational Management
• Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management
• Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
• Certificate in Culinary Arts
• Teacher Certificate Program
CONSERVATORY CONSERVATORY OF OF MUSIC
MUSIC
(PAASCU Accredited)
• Bachelor of Laws
COLLEGE COLLEGE OF OF BUSINESS BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION ADMINISTRATION ACCOUNTANCY
ACCOUNTANCY
• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration*
(Management Accounting, Marketing Management,
Financial Management, Operations Management,
Business Economics, Human Resource Development Management)
• Bachelor of Science in Accounting Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Accountancy
*PAASCU Accredited
Member:
International Federation of Catholic Universities (IFCU),
Association of Southeast and East Asian Catholic Colleges and Universities (ASEACCU),
Association of Catholic
Universities of the Philippines(ACUP),
Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP)
For more information, contact:
THE REGISTRAR
University of San Agustin
General Luna St., Iloilo City 5000, Philippines
Tel.: (63-33) 337-4841 to 44 Fax: (63-33) 337-4403
Email: info@usa.edu.ph or registrar@usa.edu.ph
Website: www.usa.edu.ph
Excellent Education for the Common Good
The First University in Western Visayas
Since 1904
COLLEGE COLLEGE OF OF ARTS ARTS AND
AND
(PAASCU Accredited)
• Bachelor of Arts
(Literature, Mass Communication, Philosophy, Political Science)
• Bachelor of Science in Biology
• Bachelor of Science in Psychology
• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
• Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service
• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Tourism
• Bachelor of Science in Criminology
COLLEGE COLLEGE OF OF NURSING
NURSING
(PAASCU Accredited)
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing
COLLEGE COLLEGE OF OF PHARMACY PHARMACY AND AND MEDICAL MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY
TECHNOLOGY
• Bachelor in Medical Laboratory Science (Medical Technology)*
• Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy*
*PAASCU Accredited
COLLEGE COLLEGE OF OF ENGINEERING ENGINEERING AND AND ARCHITECTURE
ARCHITECTURE
ARCHITECTURE
• Bachelor of Science in Architecture
• Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering*
• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering*
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Electronics & Communications Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering*
• Bachelor of Fine Arts (Painting)
• Bachelor of Science in Interior Design
*PAASCU Accredited
BASIC BASIC EDUCATION EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
DEPARTMENT
• Secondary Program*
• Elementary Program*
*PAASCU Accredited
EXTENSION CENTER/CONSORTIA
• USA-St. Thomas of Villanova Institute of Philosophy, Quezon City
• USA-St. Monica Institute of Religious Studies, Cebu City
• USA Graduate School Offshore Extension Program, CSA-Bacolod City
• USA-MPC Learning Center, Mati, Davao Oriental
• USA-SAC Learning Center, San Jose, Antique
• USA-ACC Learning Center, Kalibo, Aklan
OTHER SERVICE CENTERS AND OFFICES
• Institute for Augustinian Studies
• Villanova Institute for Social Science Research and Cultural Studies
• Fray Luis de leon Creative Writing Institute
• Institute for Panayana and Cross-Cultural Studies
• Mendel Institute for Science and Technology Research
• Institute for Social Development Issues and Initiatives
• Martin de Rada Human Rights Bureau
• Center for Alternative Law
• Augustinian Center for Continuing Education and Special Studies
• Institute for Foreign Languages
• USA Psychology Testing Center
• USA Museum and Archives
• Center for Culture and the Arts
• Tilipunan Community Service Center
• Statistical Analysis Center
• USA Clinical Laboratory
• Center for Research and Publications
• Center for Educational & Institutional Research
• Resource Center for Public Management and Governance
• Campus Ministry
Communitas

June 2010 FROM THE PRESIDENT
Evangelization through Values
Education
Aside from announcing, witnessing,
celebrating, and renewing the world with
the Gospel, offering it a new way of being
and living with Jesus’ Real Presence in the
liturgy, the University finds it even more
urgent to work for renewal of the ‘city of
man’ (the earthly city guided by self-love
and lives according to the natural man
whose thoughts, actions, and desires are
not ordered to God as to their supreme
end) by appealing to the values
emphasized by Augustine. This then could
lead to conversion, a change of structures
and models of life contrary to the ‘City of
God’. And so, it is fitting that before we
discuss about the Augustinian values as
the University’s way of discovering her
identity and her unique way of
evangelization, let us first have few words
on values as commonly understood.
It is said that every day we make
choices. And we translate these choices
into action. In fact, some of the choices
we act on make us feel good and happy;
while some of them we regret. Further,
some of our choices are minor and have
little or small implications; others are
major and have great implications. Besides,
for every choice we make, we attach a
personal meaning. The personal meaning
we have identified becomes a definite
value when the choice we act on brings
about positive feelings. In short, behind
Communitas
Augustinian Educational Centers: Venue for Evangelization
(conclusion of a 2-part series)
Fr. Raul M. Marchan, O.S.A., Ph.D.
every choice we act on that makes us feel
good is a value.
In simple terms, a value is commonly
defined as “something which we consider
important and essential to our life”
(Ulgado, 1989). Others would offer a
more functional definition of a value as
“something that is freely chosen from
alternatives and is acted upon, that which
the individual celebrates as being part of
the creative integration of his development
as a person” (Simon, 1972).
By these we can say that values are
important because they serve as “guiding
stars which navigate our life”.
Consequently, knowing our values gives us
a definite direction. Knowing our values
and living according to our values lead us
towards personal integration. The process
by which a value becomes an integral part
of us is known as the valuing process.
This process involves the journeying inward
into the core of our person. It touches the
deepest part of ourselves as we introspect,
analyze, and explore who we are and what is
important to us at a certain moment in time.
As we engage in the valuing process,
however, we have to be aware of the three
dimensions of a person: the cognitive
structure (choose), the affective life (prize),
and the behavioral patterns (act on). The
first requires that the choice must be done
freely, must be made from alternatives, and
must be done after considering
consequences; the second necessitates that
the choice must be cherished and prized for
the person feels good about it, and the
person is willing to publicly affirm that
choice; and the third entails that the
cherished choice must be acted upon, and
it must not only be acted once, but
repeatedly and consistently in life.
The Augustinian Values
With the preceding common
understanding of values, we can affirm
that whatever values that are emphasized
in Augustine’s life, reflected in his
voluminous writings, followed the same
process of choosing, prizing, and acting on
consistently. Furthermore, while he chose
them freely from so many alternatives
present during his time, he publicly
affirmed them in his dialogues with his
friends, shared them with others through
his sermons, and wrote about them for
others to know and to perpetuate them.
Our Augustinian scholars would
estimate that more than five million words
have been preserved from his
autobiographical book “The Confessions”
to his inspiring “Sermons”; from his
catechetic “On Christian Teaching” to his
theological “City of God”. It is from these
sources that these values are wellenshrined;
and from where we will choose
the more common and familiar values that
the Saint mentions. Since we are in an
educational setting, we may say that these
values are those that find relevance in our
educational ends.
Not too long ago that the Order of
St. Augustine came up with a more
systematic approach to value formation
typical of an Augustinian as her way to
assess the educational centers found in
many parts of the world, especially as to
how the stakeholders would benefit from
the Christian integral education, the
Augustinian way. This process is not only
meant to share the values endeared to
Augustine, or to disseminate for the sake
of sharing them, but to give an identity
proper to an Augustinian education. This
can also be a potent means for a new
Augustinian educational evangelization in
the 21 st century as she dialogues with the
times. As experts say, Augustinian values
may define clearly our education and may
be converted into clean air that may be
breathed in our educational communities.
Common Values
For whatever reasons there are, there
is a tendency to simplify the presentation
of the values found in the writings of St.
Augustine. Though several authors’
to page 9
1

June 2010 NEWS
Losabia
JAYLORD Losabia, a cum laude
from the College of Education
(CoEd), topped the Licensure
Examination for Teachers or LET
(Elementary) in October 2009.
Losabia, a graduate of Bachelor
of Elementary Education major in
General Curriculum, earned a
BASED on the recently released
result of the December 2009
Integrated Comprehensive Nurse
Licensure Examination, the
University of San Agustin–College
of Nursing placed 3 rd among the
twenty-three nursing schools in
Western Visayas.
The college obtained an overall
passing performance of 83.82 per
cent, which is far beyond the
national passing performance of 39
per cent. In the national level, the
University ranked 14 th among the
more than 300 schools of nursing in
the country. This is according to
the data published by the Board of
Nursing and the Professional
Regulation Commission (PRC).
Records show that more than
half of the nursing schools in Region
Augustinian tops LET 2009
general average of 89.6 per cent. He
is the first Augustinian to top the
licensure examination for teachers.
In an interview, Losabia said he
didn’t see it coming. “I was
surprised with the results but I am
happy about it.”
Both a St. Augustine
Scholarship grantee and an
academic scholar during his college
days, Losabia admitted he was
focused on his academic studies. “I
was an ordinary student then. My
teachers asked me to join different
organizations but I refused. I told
them I was already overwhelmed by
extra-curricular activities when I
was in high school,” he said.
According to him, he prepared
for the LET through the review
classes organized by former CoEd
dean, Dr. Nenita V. Quiñon. He
USA is 3 rd best nursing school in WV
6 have not
obtained more
than a fifty per cent
passing rate. St.
Paul University and
West Visayas State
University bagged
the number one
spot in the region
for schools having
100 and more
examinees and
having thirty to
ninety-nine examinees, respectively.
In November 2009, the
Commission on Higher Education
released a memorandum citing the
best nursing schools in the
Philippines. In said memo, the
University of San Agustin placed
15 th among more than 300 schools.
Communitas
2
added, “I also attended a four-day
review class at the St. Louis Review
Center.”
Losabia was a graduate of the
Iloilo City National High School
in 2005. He finished his
elementary education at the
Andres Bonifacio Elementary
School. He hails from Infante,
Molo, Iloilo City and is son to
proud parents, Jose and Nelida
Losabia.
The licensure examination
consisted of three parts: General
Education (20%), Professional
Education (40%), and a more
specialized General Education
(40%). It was originally scheduled
on 27 September but was
postponed to 4 October due to
typhoons “Ondoy” and “Peping.”
(The Augustinian/UCRP)
The Mendel Hall that houses the College of Nursing
These data have clearly
shown that the college is
continuing to attain its goal to
be one of the best nursing
schools that offer satisfactory
nursing education, not only in
the region but also in the
country. (J.J.C. Pama)

June 2010 NEWS
THE University of San Agustin
(USA) emerged as ninth best
performing school in the country
as per result of the November
2009 Civil Engineering (CE)
Licensure Examination. This
national performance ranking
involved schools with 25–50
examinees during the most recent
board exam.
USA received the citation by
obtaining an overall passing score
of 68 per cent, vis-à-vis the
national performance of only 46
percent. On top of this feat, the
University registered a passing
score of 83.33 per cent for the
batch 2009 civil engineering
graduates alone.
THE Federation of Accrediting
Agencies of the Philippines (FAAP)
confirmed the Level III status of
the College of Education (CoEd)
in December 2009.
“I am overwhelmed with the
results after the rigorous
preparation,” CoEd Dean Alex B.
Facinabao stated. “Bringing back
the Level III status is the greatest
achievement we’ve got since this is
my first (term for the) deanship. It
was really a challenge for me.”
Established in 1977, FAAP is
the umbrella organization of all
accrediting agencies in the
Philippines. It is authorized by the
Commission on Higher Education
(CHED) to certify the quality
levels of accredited programs at the
tertiary level for the purpose of
granting progressive deregulation
and other benefits. “The
Philippine Association of
Accrediting Schools, Colleges and
University ranks 9 th in CE board exam ‘09
In a related story, the College
of Engineering and Architecture
got an overall rating of 86 per
cent in the October 2009
CoEd regains Level III accreditation
Universities (PAASCU) recommends
the status of all institutions to FAAP,
until it confirms the results,” said Ms.
Gladys Confesor, Accreditation and
Quality Assessment Office Executive
Secretary.”
When asked about his future
plans for the college, Facinabao
stresses he wants to maintain the
Level III status by improving
Blanco Hall, home of the Augustinian civil engineers
Communitas
licensure examination for mechanical
engineers. The 2009 graduates
recorded a 100 per cent passing rate.
(The Augustinian/UCRP)
Facade of Rada Hall that houses the College of Education
instruction, research and
community extension; by making
the passing percentage for LET at
least 75 per cent; and, by
achieving accreditation for the
following courses: B.S. in Library
Sciences, B.S. in Hotel and
Restaurant Management and B.S.
in Nutrition and Dietetics. (The
Augustinian/UCRP)
3

June 2010 NEWS
CBAA mentor is outstanding business educator
EFRAIN Francis Encanto, a faculty
member of the College of Business
Administration and Accountancy
(CBAA), was named national
finalist in the 2010 Search for
Outstanding Business Educators by
the Philippine Council of Deans
and Educators in Business
(PCDEB).
Encanto received the award on
12 March at the Lyceum University
in Intramuros, Manila. All the
finalists were from Luzon, except
Encanto who hails from Iloilo.
With the theme “Beyond the
Bottom Line: Our Social
Responsibility and Commitment,”
the 2010 national search awarding
ceremonies coincided with the 9 th
Annual PCDEB Conference and 3 rd
Business Education-Industry Summit.
“The students must dig for
knowledge and the teachers must
be prepared for it,” Encanto said in
an interview. He added, “The
trophy of a teacher comes when he
is able to see the good contributions
of this learner (to the community).”
AUGUSTINIAN Joy Yongque-
Robles, university guidance
counselor, was accredited as
Psychometrician by Behavioral
Dynamics, Inc. after passing the
test given in Cebu City early this
year. She received the
accreditation on 19 February
2010.
Yongque-Robles took the
examination as official
representative of the University,
and, in her capacity as In-Charge of
Dr. Encanto (4 th from L), after receiving his award (R)
Encanto served as president of
the Rotary Club of Jaro (2005-06)
and of Rotary International District
3850 (2009-10). He was as
coordinator of the management
department (1995-98) and is a
loyalty awardee of the University of
San Agustin.
The national search was for the
fields of accountancy, economics,
entrepreneurship, finance marketing,
office administration and
management.
Augustinian accredited as psychometrician
Yongque-Robles
Psychological Testing at the
Guidance Services Office. As a
Psychometrician, she is now
qualified to procure psychological
Communitas
The finalists were chosen
based on the following criteria:
teaching experience; educational
background; service to students;
curriculum development;
research; books published;
employment or consultancy in
business; service to community;
membership in professional,
civic and religious organizations,
speakership; and seminars
attended. (The Augustinian/
UCRP)
4
testing materials at level A. She
is qualified, as well, to
administer and interpret results
for said tests. Level A testing
materials refer to all
psychological tests, except
clinical tests.
Behavioral Dynamics, Inc.’s
accreditation of Yongque-
Robles also means the
accreditation of the University
of San Agustin as an institution.
(J.S. Velez/UCRP)

June 2010 NEWS
Communitas
Med tech students win best oral paper in microbio
A TEAM of four Medical
Technology students won the Best
Oral Paper Presentation in the
undergraduate category during the
17 th Annual Convention and
Regional Scientific Meeting of the
Philippine Society for
Microbiology, Inc., Visayas
Regional Chapter, on 23-24
October 2009 at the Punta Villa
Resort in Iloilo City.
The research team was declared
best among seven groups coming
from three competing schools:
three from the University of the
Philippines Visayas, two from the
Riverside College and two from the
University of San Agustin. The
Augustinian team members were
Serren Lor Gallinero, Ellen Mae
THE first of its kind in the
island of Panay, the Virtual
Laboratory in the College of
Nursing commenced its operations
on 11 January 2010.
The initiative to construct a
Virtual Laboratory was brought
about by the college’s adoption of
a new B.S. in Nursing curriculum
embodied under Memorandum
Order #14 of the Commission on
Higher Education. Article VI,
Section 13.5 clearly states that
“higher education institutions are
encouraged to put up virtual skills
laboratory to supplement and
complement the related learning
experiences prior to actual
experience.”
Thus, the College of Nursing,
in partnership with Healthcare
Advantage Institute (HCAI), built
Cerena, Diane Lorraine Loreña and
Rachelle Ann Sayomac.
The group’s research was on
“Parasite Larvae in Soil Samples
from Brgy. Calaparan, Arevalo,
Iloilo City.” The members
defended their study in front of a
panel composed of microbiologists
coming from within and outside
the country.
The contest had three
categories: high school,
undergraduate, and graduate levels.
Each contesting group was given
ten minutes to present its study
and to defend the same in an open
forum – where the panelists, other
contestants and other research
advisers were allowed to critique
the study and ask questions.
CN opens first virtual lab in Panay
a Virtual Laboratory utilizing NAL
B and C at the Gamboa Hall.
The curricula of the courses
offered by HCAI are based on the
Joint Commission International
(JCI) standards. JCI is a subsidiary
of Joint Commission
“I think what is best in our
study is that it is new – we have
used a modified Baermann
technique for the experiment;
and it has greater benefit to the
public: there is still hope for
parasitism incidence in Iloilo to
be controlled or lowered now
that we have found out the
reason why this is so,” Gallinero
stressed.
The group had three months
(June-August 2009) to finish the
study as part of the
requirements of the research
subject under Professors
Christine Villanueva and Lerma
Paris, who also served as the
group advisers. (The Augustinian/
UCRP)
Virtual Laboratory ICU set up Bed 1 (Suction machine, Cardiac monitor, Defibrillator,
Emergency Cart and Geri Mannequin
5
Accreditation of Hospitals
Organization (JCAHO) which is
renowned globally in the field of
healthcare delivery accreditation.
With this upgrade, the
students enrolled in the college are
to page 6

June 2010 NEWS Communitas 6
A MONTH after winning the
university inter-college quiz bowl,
Marisol Soliva and Karen Claire
Ebreo gave the university pride by
garnering the championship trophy
in the 5 th Regional Inter-college
Biology Quiz Bowl.
The competition was held last
17 February 2010 at the Nursing
Review Room, Urdaneta Hall of this
university. Twelve tertiary schools in
CN opens first.... from page 5
Biology eagles grab reg’l bio quiz championship
assured to receive laboratory skills
of international standards. This is
significantly advantageous in the
preparation of students in the
clinical setting and during the
provision of concrete methods
and processes in client care.
Furthermore, this will bridge the
gap between the academe and the
hospital industry by enhancing
the students’ skills in
manipulating modern equipment.
Some of the equipment to be
used in this facility are: Geri
Advanced Manikin, Biphasic
Defibrillator with ECG monitor,
Infusion and Syringe Pump,
Electronic Ventilator, Electric Bed
with remote control, Sheridan Flex
– C-Pap System, ECG, Adult and
Pedia radio transparent electrodes,
and Feeding Tube Machine.
The curriculum design, aside
from being based on JCI
standards, is also taught in a
manner adopted in the United
States. This would cultivate a
paradigm shift in the nursing
mentality from being passive to
assertive. A process of
acculturation will also be
the region participated in the said
event. Ma. Eva Claire Sayson and
Jaynos Amolar of the Western
Visayas College of Science and
Technology took the second place,
while Philip Ribay and Jesse Dann
Abella of the West Visayas State
University garnered the third
place.
This was the very first victory
of the Augustinians since the
ascertained, helping the students
improve their learning curve.
The courses offered were
divided into three categories to
guarantee proper acceleration of
learning. The building-block
courses contain basic
documentation and basic life
support. Basic Skills level include
Intensive Care Unit and Maternal
and Child Nursing. Advanced
Skills have Telemetry, Intensive
Physical Assessment, and Pediatric
and Neonatal Advanced Cardiac
Life Support. These are just a few
of the lessons that will be taught
competition was launched. The
contest was co-sponsored by
the Department of Biological
Sciences in coordination with
the Biology Teachers
Association of the Philippines
(BIOTA-Phils.)-WV Chapter.
Prof. Nancy F. Latumbo,
faculty member of the
department was the team
coach. (N.F. Latumbo)
Virtual Laboratory Nurse’s Station with supplies cabinet
to the nursing students at
different levels of their academic
life.
This innovation in nursing
education was made possible
through the leadership of College
Dean Sofia Cosette
Monteblanco, with the support
of University administrators.
Indubitably, this Virtual
Laboratory has proven that the
college can offer quality nursing
education at par with
international standards and can
produce globally competitive
nurses. (J.J.C. Pama)

June 2010 NEWS
AUGUSTINIAN CDT CPL Reed
Mae Magbanua bested other
contestants in the 10 th Annual
Regional ROTC Speech Competition
held at the University of Iloilo
Auditorium in October 2009.
All speeches were anchored on
this year’s theme, “ROTC: Preparing
the Youth to Become Better Citizens
and Future Leaders.”
THE UNIVERSITY of San
Agustin Grant-In-Aid Scholars
Association (USAGIASA) was
declared the overall champion in
the 10 th Iloilo City Student
Assistants Association (ICSAA)
Fellowship Day held at the John
B. Lacson Foundation Maritime
University (JBLFMU) late last
year.
With the theme “ICSAA: We
Are One… One in Thought… One
USA ROTC wins reg’l speech title
Magbanua, a B.S. Accounting
Technology II student from the
College of Business Administration
and Accountancy, attributed her
success to the inspiration given by
significant people in her life. “My
father was my number one
inspiration; also, Mr. Elmer Tolosa
and my ‘buddies’ in the ROTC,”
claimed Magbanua. She further said:
Communitas
“In a contest, the only obligation of
the contestant is to deliver and
perform what s/he had practiced; s/
he should not expect anything in
return.”
Mr. Tolosa was Magbanua’s
trainer. A faculty member in the
University, he is an alumnus of the
USA ROTC and the Red and Gold
Frasority. (The Augustinian/ UCRP)
Augustinian mentor speaks in PCQACL nat’l confab
PROFESSOR Lerma Paris, R.M.T.,
faculty member from the College of
Pharmacy and Medical Technology,
was one of the resource speakers
during the 6 th National Convention
of the Philippine Council for
Quality Assurance in Clinical
Laboratories (PCQACL) held in
October 2009 at the Century Park
Hotel, Malate, Manila.
An M.S. in Public Health
holder, Paris spoke about
“Intestinal Parasite Diagnosis:
Current Issues and Implications for
Standardization and Quality
Improvement” during the first day
of the convention.
With the theme, “Ensuring
Quality Healthcare through Quality
Laboratory Testing,” the
convention was attended by
pathologists, chiefs of clinical
USAGIASA is ICSAA fellowship overall champ
in Deed… Together for Change,”
the fellowship was attended by
delegates from different colleges and
universities in Iloilo City. Contests
were held at the JBLFMU-Arevalo
Gym and JBF Hall.
USAGIASA won the first
place in the following contest
categories: Essay Writing, Logo-
Making, Dance Sports, Body
Painting, Tall Tales, Group
Impersonation, Vocal Solo, Lip
laboratories, and medical
technologists nationwide.
Modern clinical laboratories
are considered important
components of Medical and
Public Health Services. The
Professor Paris (3 rd from L) receiving her certificate
laboratory data they provide are
integral parts of decision-making
in the health services, especially
in the diagnosis and
management of patients. (R.G.
Bayuran)
7
Synchronization, and T-shirt
Modeling. It won the second
place in Verse Choir; and the
third place in Vocal Duet and
Spelling Bee contests. Carmille
Leuterio was crowned Ms. ICSAA
2009; Jeinard Lerona was hailed
Mr. ICSAA 1 st Runner-Up.
USAGIASA bested six other
organizations from other schools
and universities in the city. (The
Augustinian/UCRP)

June 2010 NEWS
Outstanding engineer addresses 2010 graduates
ENGINEER Jeffrey
Mijares, a 2001
Outstanding Chemical
Engineer Awardee,
addressed and inspired
the nearly one
thousand and five
hundred Augustinian
2010 graduates last
March.
Mijares finished his
B.S. in Chemical
Engineering from the
College of Engineering
and Architecture, then
College of Technology,
at the University of
San Agustin. At
present, he is the
manager of the
Corporate
Environmental
Management and
Safety Group, and the Ethanol
Project Team Leader of the
Roxol Bioenergy Corporation,
both of Roxas Holdings, Inc.—
the biggest sugar manufacturer
in the Philippines.
Concurrently, he is Pollution
Control Officer III of Central
Azucarera Don Pedro in Luzon.
This outstanding engineer is
also one of the recipients of the
Ten Outstanding Pollution
Control Officers (TOPCO)
Award in 1998. He is engaged in
various undertakings related to
his profession. He has served as
member of the Board of
Examiners in Chemical
Engineering and the Philippine
Association of Professional
Regulatory Boards at the
Professional Regulation
Engr. Mijares with Father President Raul M. Marchan O.S.A.
Commission, from 2006 to the
present.
Mijares has likewise served as
a member of the DENR
Pollution Adjudication Board
from 2003 to the present. He
had been president of the
Pollution Control Association
of the Philippines, Inc. for two
administrative years, from 2001-
2003. He has been chair of the
Sugar Industry Environment
Committee and the Committee
on Environment of the
Federation of Philippine
Industries.
Engineer Mijares has traveled
to various places in Asia, North
and South America, and Europe
in an on-going effort to enhance
his skills and knowledge in his
Communitas
8
chosen field. He has likewise
delivered talks, sharing his
learning with his colleagues and
countrymen.
The commencement speaker
opened his speech by challenging
the graduates through the
following question: “After you
leave your comfort zone within
the walls of the university…, will
your new life as a college
graduate (be) a constant struggle
for survival or will it be a walk
in the park?” He ended it by
giving them hope, saying: “Your
journey to follow your dreams
had just begun. Keep holding
unto it. It will take a little
while, but for as long as you
know where you are going, you
will surely get there.” (UCRP)

June 2010
Augustinian Educational..... from page 1
opinions may vary as to how many there
are of them, others would just classify them
into three, or four, or even ten. While
limiting them to smaller numbers, some
values are rather subsumed by the more
commonly known ones.
In our school, the values of
community, charity and truth are being
popularized, while other values may just
belong to any of these Trinitarian values.
Discussing these values, we may notice that
they are interconnected with one another.
1. Community.
The most familiar way our school has
understood this value is through the phrase
taken from the Rule of St. Augustine,
“oneness of heart and mind”. For him, the
source of this communitarian spirit is love;
love that creates an attitude of life in
which the common things are preferred to
what he owns, and what he owns are not
preferred to the common ones. Thus,
community is opposed to egoism and
individualism.
This communitarian dimension of the
person is important in St. Augustine both
in theory and in practice and love of
neighbor is its foundation. He says that
“the measure of love is love without
measure” (Letter 109, 2).
Community as a value carries with it
other values such as solidarity and justice.
And speaking of these values, two other
ideas come to fore: private property and
common good. According to him, private
property is a human institution, not
divine. It causes many human reactions
like enmities, disagreements, wars, mutual
conflicts, among others; while things which
we possess in common we never have
dispute over -- like breathing air and seeing
the sun. In his commentary on Psalms, he
admonishes us “to refrain from possessing
private things. If we cannot do so in
reality, at least for the sake of love, let us
make room for the Lord” (131, 5, and 6).
Thus, the community of goods would be
preferable. And religious life opted for the
community of goods as the perfect system
of life (Rule no. 4).
FROM THE PRESIDENT
As a value, when practiced within
our academic milieu, community is a way
to overcome our egoism and individualism.
Employees can allow more the spirit of
cooperation and availability in favor of the
common good. We can even overcome
envy, self-esteem, or pride. We can also
outgrow destructive criticism, while sisterly
or brotherly constructive criticism takes
place in favor of the community.
Since our school is a venue for
evangelization, within the premises,
community as a value would allow us to
remember more the rights of others and
our personal obligations than our own
rights and the obligations of others. Then,
our outreach program would have more
meaning because we can sincerely
manifest our solid preferential love for the
poor and the needy. And above all, our
school can be the best place to practice the
love of God and love of neighbor toward
the union of souls and of hearts for God’s
honor and glory.
2. Truth
Truth as a value in Augustine is
inseparable from another value,
interiority, the way toward the truth.
Thus, he puts it in these words: “If you
don’t want to overflow outside, enter
within yourself, because the truth lives
in the interior man…” (On True
Religion, 39, 72). For him, we need to
know the truth and live in it and of it
so that we can have self-fulfillment.
Interiority is necessary for us to avoid
purposelessness and superficiality of life.
This value leads us to imitate Augustine
who reflects on himself and on the
fundamental things of life, such as God,
faith, work, study, friendship, even
leisure time, etc., in order for us to
discover our true life’s meaning.
For us to appreciate interiority as a
way to truth, let us be reminded of a
sermon of Augustine which suggests to
us to “Let us leave some margin of
silence. Return to your interiority and
keep away from all noise. Look again
into your interiority, where there are no
Communitas
9
confusions neither reproaches, where
you have a peaceful asylum for your
conscience. Attend with calmness and
serenity to the truth in order that you
will understand it” (Sermon 52, 30).
Through interiority, therefore, all the
truths and the Truth are found. For
Augustine, truths are found when our
mind reflects on the reality of anything.
He further opines that truth is also found
when we discover the realities and values
that lead, give sense, and bring happiness
to human life. Ironically, we are capable
of knowing many truths but at times we
ignore the truth about ourselves, which for
Augustine, is the deepest reason and
purpose of our existence. Most
importantly, he points out that for us
Christians, Jesus Christ, the Son of God
made man, is the most profound and
complete revelation of the truth of man
and of the truth of God.
As in the value of community, we can
attain positive personal maturity while we
practice the value of truth by way of
interiority. Augustine teaches us that the
search for truth draws us away from
frivolity and even superficiality. It can mean
that while on earth we only seek things we
can have forever; that we will deal with
facts of life as they relate to life eternal.
Part of this value of truth is to have
foresight. Foresight helps us to avoid evil by
anticipating it, like fixng our roof before it
rains. Thus, a person who has foresight will
be reflective; being reflective is being
prayerful. Prayer not only prevents us from
becoming too preoccupied with ourselves,
but it also opens us up to God’s presence.
In addition, we who practice the
Augustinian value of truth can overcome
whatever tendency we have to live in vain
events; instead, we become sensible and
attentive toward the most important things
in life. Consequently, we ask these
questions: “What is the proper goal of our
lives? For what (whom) are we made?” For
Augustine, the goal or end of our lives is
happiness. We are made for happiness. But
(and this is a big but) we are made for
happiness rightly understood. That is,
happiness is the blessedness and well-being
to page 10

June 2010
Augustinian Educational..... from page 9
which comes from realizing our ultimate
end. We are made for God. God is the
fulfillment of our deepest longing and
most hopeful desires. As Augustine puts it,
all our searching and seeking is the quest
for God. At times we may not know it;
we may lose our way; we may even reject
the end for which we are made – but
searching and pursuing us is the God of
love.
3. Love
Augustine reminds us that love is the
substance of our Christian life. Love is to
desire the good for oneself or for another.
To put emphasis on this idea, he says that
love is the weight of the soul, “amor meus,
pondus meum” (Confessions, 13, 9, 10).
This means that any thought, desire, timely
action, or permanent attitude, as well as
the fundamental option that sustains
everything of that matter, is attributed to
love. But, he says, too, that love is good or
bad, from the moral perspective. The good
or bad love sees to it that thoughts, desires,
actions, or conducts that are derived from
it shall be good or bad. As a consequence,
if our love is good, then, all that we do
shall be good. It is for this reason that
Augustine says, “Love and do what you
will”. To put it shortly, love is the
substance of human and Christian life.
How can we make love concrete on
the human level? Augustine in his work
says that “God is love” (1 John 4: 8) but
this love cannot be seen in the form of
face, body, stature, feet, and hands. In
spite of this, love can indeed be concrete
through Jesus’ followers, “it is true that it
has feet: they are those who walk toward
the Church. It has hands; they are those
that extend toward the poor. It has eyes;
they are those who see the needy. It has
ears; they are those that listen to the Lord”
(Tractates on 1Letter of John 7, 10).
For an institution of higher learning
that claims the spiritual guidance of St.
Augustine, it is clear that for us to be
authentic Christians, our attitudes and
actions must be imbued with love. For
where there is true love, shall there be real
Christianity. Where there is no love,
neither shall Christianity exist. This means
that if what moves us in life is love, then,
FROM THE PRESIDENT
we are Christians; if it is not so, then, we
are like pagans.
All our conduct as teachers, students,
administrators, and personnel of the
University in work, personal relationship,
recreations, etc., must be motivated by true
love and must therefore end in forming us
in love with God’s grace by means of the
sacraments, liturgical participation, prayer,
etc. (please refer to an article in the April
2009 issue, “A Catechism of Faith for our
University”).
St. Augustine writes that the love of
God and the love of men “is what you
must always remember, and always
practice, and always comply” (Tractates on
the Gospel of John, 17, 18). Should this
value deserve utmost attention in this
academic community, important attitudes
then related to it can be derived from.
We can mention some of them here
such as: helping others in the search and
possession of the Greatest Good who is
God. In addition, we let the spirit of
collaboration and of solidarity work with
each and everyone. While we collaborate,
coordinate and cooperate with our coemployees,
we can achieve our purpose
with ease when we develop clean mind, a
noble heart in our judgments and words
for others. This we can achieve if we do
not think evil, talk ill and do evil of
anybody that at times can make any of
our co-worker suffer intentionally.
Love as an Augustinian value finds a
very close affinity to what the Saint
describes as a human component of
Christian life: friendship. The experience of
having friends was so important since
Augustine’s childhood until the last days
of his life. He affirms that “in this world
there are two necessary things: health and
a good friend” (Sermon 299). He lived
friendship with much intensity that his
track of life tells us that he could not live
without friends.
His book, “The Confessions”, speaks
of an extraordinary friendship on the loss of
a friend (4, 4, 7-9, 14). His other writings,
“On the Happy Life”, “The City of God”,
and “Letter 155”, also tell us of the same.
Good friendship contributes to the
happiness of the person. It is a precious gift
of social life. It consists descriptively of the
joyful and personal coexistence in all noble
aspects of life. It requires love of truth as an
Communitas
indispensable condition. That is to say, s/he
who is not sincere is never a good friend.
In our academic milieu, Augustine gives
us his best ideas on friendship. According to
him, we don’t love our friend if we love her/
him for something different from her/him;
that we love our friend if we hate what
harms her/him; that bad friendships are
deceitful and make enemies with God,
because anyone who displeases God for love
of a friend is an enemy of her/himself and of
her/his friend.
This important role of friendship in
Augustine’s life never tired him in
enumerating its benefits. And so with us, in
our present times, we can derive few
attitudes in the practice of this value. For
one, we can reject that which harms our
friend even if it pleases her/him. We have to
remember that to love our friends does not
mean that we too have to love their vices or
approve of their errors. But we can love them
in spite of their failures and defects. Our love
can also be disinterested love when we do
not expect anything in return for a good
done to a friend. For we have to love a
friend for what s/he is, not for interest or
convenience.
Conclusion
10
It is imperative that the best things in
Augustinian education and pedagogy be
presented to our academic community.
Augustinian values are such that are indeed
important and essential to achieve our
educational vision and mission. These are
supposed to be freely chosen from among the
other values in and outside our campus. It is,
however, a must for us that we cherish and
extremely value them after which we are
demanded to act upon them repeatedly and
consistently. Drawing out some of the values
from Augustine’s writings then, is our living
response to the demands and sensibilities of
our clientele and partners in education.
It is our hope that the values presented
here provide a glimpse of a model of a
human person formed in an Augustinian
educational institution from which, later on,
our society will benefit. It is our peculiar way
of announcing, witnessing, celebrating and
renewing the ‘city of man’, offering it a new
way of being and living so that one day it
befits St. Augustine’s dream of the ‘City of
God’.

June 2010 ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
LAST 8 March 2010, the
University of San Agustin complied
with the Supreme Court decision
in G.R. Case No. 177594 and
released the “undistributed” tuition
incremental proceeds (TIP) for
Academic Year (AY) 2001-02 and
AY 2002-03.
Rendered in December 2009,
the Supreme Court decision
mandated the University to “pay to
the employees covered by the
Collective Bargaining Agreement
(CBA) an additional or incremental
amount on top of the amounts of
1,500.00 already paid” during the
above mentioned academic years,
“and the resulting increase in
related benefits.”
The case between the
University and the University of
San Agustin Employees Union-
THE Pharmacy laboratory of the
university which started operations
a few years back is now in fullswing.
Located at Room 403 of the
Mendell Hall, the lab includes a
Chemical and Apparatus
Dispensing Area, a Records and
Documentation Area, a
Production or Manufacturing
Area, a Research and Quality
Control Area, a Chemical
Preparation Area, as well as a
Chemical and Apparatus Room. It
is fully air-conditioned and has
access to the internet for ready
reference.
The Pharmacy Laboratory was
once part of the Pharmacy and
Chemistry Stockroom. It was
Administration releases employee TIP share
Federation of Free Workers
(USAEU-FFW) stemmed from the
parties’ disagreement on the
computation and distribution of
TIP arising from tuition fee
increases during AY 2001-02 and
AY 2002-03. As to computation of
TIP, the USAEU-FFW insisted that
scholarships be included in the
computation. The University
opposed the inclusion of
scholarships arguing that no actual
tuition was paid to and earned by
the University. As to distribution,
the USAEU-FFW argued the CBA,
as worded, mandated that the TIP
should be allocated to salaries
alone. The University, on the other
hand, argued that as is the
customary practice, the TIP should
apply to salaries wages and other
benefits and not to salaries alone.
Pharmacy lab in full-swing
separated from the Chemistry
Stockroom in 2006, as the latter
was transferred to the first floor of
the Mendel Hall. This was due to
the minimum standard set by the
Philippine Association of Colleges
of Pharmacy (PACOP) requiring a
separate Pharmacy lab for the B.S.
in Pharmacy program.
The new pharmacy laboratory
is under the management of the
College of Pharmacy and Medical
Technology through its pharmacy
laboratory personnel, Ms. Julienne
Osdaña and Ms. Eufemia Arabia.
Several equipment were already
purchased for the lab, as follows:
tablet press machine, universal
driving unit, 256-340 nm
wavelength UV lamp TLC
Communitas
As to the computation of
TIP, the University’s stance was
upheld. As to the manner of
distribution of TIP, the
USAEU-FFW position was
sustained.
In distributing TIP,
notwithstanding that the
Supreme Court decision covered
only rank and file employees
during AY2001-02 and AY
2002-03, the University, out of
sheer generosity, applied the
decision even to confidential,
supervisory and managerial
employees.
As the dispute took roughly
a decade to be finally resolved,
the distribution of TIP covered
a ten-year period from AY 2001-
02 to AY 2009-10. (Office of the
President)
detector, 2-centrifuge, ph meters,
laboratory glass wares, analytical,
to-loading and platform balances,
mono- and binocular electronic
microscopes, blenders, sieves,
prepared slides for microscope
viewing, hot plates and fume
hood. Manual and computerized
inventory of chemicals and
apparatuses could be performed in
the lab.
The administration believes
that this laboratory will be
instrumental in strengthening
the pharmacy profession since
the University of San Agustin is
the only university in Western
Visayas that offers a B.S. in
Pharmacy program. (R.G.
Bayuran)
11

June 2010 ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
THE University gave honor to fortyfive
service awardees during a
personnel recognition held at the
Iloilo Grand Hotel on 13 February
2010. The awardees were led by
forty-year service awardees Sebastian
Isiderio and Rolando Zabala, both
from the non-academic department.
Other service awardees were as
follows: 35-year service awardees –
Corazon Buenvenida and
Leodegario Zabalo; 30-year service
awardees – Adelino Beaniza,
Segundina Buenasflores, Edison
Didon, Josephine Gellecanao, Nora
Legaspi, Cecilia Macalalag, Ramon
Maquiling, Rolando Medel,
Romeo Mirasol, Joel Piñas, Sr.,
Ruben Santacera, Paul Saul, Marie
Lou Serantes, Victoria Sustento,
Perfecta Solocasa, Lyn Feliza Tonko,
and Jose Espinosa, Jr.
Leonida Alolong, Fely Caturas,
Juana David, Jesusima Monserate,
and Mary Sonia Sollano were
honored as 25-year service awardees.
Given the 20-year service awards
University names 45 service awardees
were: Adalia Adricula, Ronela
Agero, Ma. Eden Yap-Aguirra, Diana
Albellar, Marifel Anatan, Edna
Basillas, Sylvia Calantas, Gladys
Confesor, Atty. Julius Elvas, Rosalie
Espartero, Ester Gaitana, Nancy
Latumbo, Jane Manila, Lerma Paris,
Godofredo Sorgon, Maria Nemia
Sudaria, Josephine Tandug, Ma.
Psyche Dolorosa Valencia, and
Joyliet Velez.
USA service awardees with friar-administrators
Communitas
12
Jose Espinosa, Jr., thirty-year
service awardee, delivered the
response on behalf of the honorees.
The USA Personnel
Recognition Program is an annual
event meant to honor employees
who have rendered long years of
service to the University. This year’s
program was spearheaded by the
College of Arts and Sciences. (M.G.
Salmorin/UCRP)
HRD conducts 2 summer 2010 seminar-workshops
COMMITTED to the thrust of
incessantly enhancing and
upgrading the competency of the
university personnel, the Human
Resource Department (HRD)
conducted two seminars in
summer 2010.
A week-long training and
workshop on Research Proposal
Writing was held on 5-8 April 2010
at the Nursing Review Center. This
is in recognition of the inadequate
facility of most of the members of
the faculty for research.
The seminar resource persons
were Dr. Alejo P. Biton, research
teacher at the Graduate School,
and Dr. Remedios Somcio,
director of the Center for
Educational and Institutional
Research. The activity was
attended by sixty-six participants,
mostly members of the respective
Research Management Groups
(RMG) of the different
departments. At the end of the
training, each RMG presented a
research proposal to the University
President for approval.
Another seminar, Data
Processing and Generation/MS
Powerpoint, was conducted on 6-7
April 2010 at the Computer
Laboratory A. The resource
persons were Prof. Michelle
Tribaco and Prof. Erlita
Gonzales, Information
Technology faculty members.
The training was attended by
thirty-nine faculty members,
mostly, newly-hired personnel.
All these capacity building
activities were facilitated by the
Training and Development
Committee, chaired by HRD
Director Carmen N. Hernandez,
D.M. The summer 2010 seminars
form part of the Personnel
Development Program of the
University of San Agustin. (M.G.
Salmorin/UCRP)

June 2010 ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
PROFESSORS Pilar Arguelles and
Rhodora Cartagena of the
Department of Mathematics and
Physics attended the International
Conference in Mathematics
Education sponsored by the 7 th
Biennial Conference of the
Philippine Council of
Mathematics Teacher Educators
(MATHTED), Inc. This was held
last 23-24 October 2009 at the
Palawan State University in Puerto
Princesa City, Palawan. The theme
of the conference was “Setting
Goals, Directions and Standards in
Mathematics Education.”
The conference included
plenary sessions, lecturedemonstrations,
workshops, and
paper presentations with and by
mathematics educators and
researchers from both the basic
education and university levels.
FOUR fellows of the Ford
Foundation-International
Fellowships Program have in the
last two years returned and rejoined
the faculty of the University of San
Agustin. Their graduate education
in the United States of America
and the United Kingdom is
expected to provide fresh and
innovative perspectives in the
university’s programs.
The Ford fellows include Eric
Divinagracia, Liby Norman Limoso,
Leo Satana and lawyer Danny
Valenzuela.
Divinagracia had finished a
master’s degree in Arts Management
from the Eastern Michigan
University in the USA. He is
concurrently the Coordinator of
Math profs attend int’l conference
Professors Arguelles and Cartagena
It was participated in by the
international colleagues in the field
through partnerships with Filipino
educators.
The conference was designed to
update mathematics educators and
4 Ford fellows boost USA faculty
Co-Curricular Activities,
Coordinator of the Center for
Culture and the Arts and Director
of the Little Theater. He is also on
the faculty of the College of Arts
and Sciences, teaching Dramatics.
Limoso had earned his master’s
degree in Fine Arts from the
University of Pennsylvania, USA.
He is expected to rejoin the faculty
of the B.S. in Fine Arts program at
the College of Engineering and
Architecture.
Leo Satana of the Commission
on Human Rights – Region VI,
teaches part-time in the College of
Arts and Sciences. He obtained a
master’s degree in the Sociology of
Law at the University of
Southhampton, UK.
Communitas
13
specialists on the current trends
and issues concerning
mathematics education and
research; identify appropriate and
effective teaching and research
approaches that can be utilized in
the mathematics classroom for
students at different levels; and
help strengthen the commitment
of mathematics educators in
promoting understanding,
interest in, and appreciation of
mathematics. It also aimed to
serve as a venue for mathematics
teachers, teacher educators, and
researchers to work together and
share their knowledge in
teaching approaches and research
that could contribute to an
improved mathematics
education in the country and
throughout the world. (R.A.
Deleña)
Lawyer Danny Valenzuela,
former director of the University
of San Agustin Center for
Alternative Law, has resumed
teaching at the College of Law.
He earned a master’s degree in
Law from Georgetown
University, USA.
The University of San
Agustin Center for Research and
Publications (UCRP) has served
as the regional center for
Western Visayas of the Ford
Foundation –International
Fellowships Program since
2006, with Asst. Prof. Jigger S.
Latoza as Regional Partner
Representative and Mrs. Carmen
G. Dureza as Program Assistant.
(UCRP)

June 2010 RESEARCH AND PUBLICATIONS
Communitas
Libro Agustino books in libraries of top institutions
BOOKS published by the
University of San Agustin
Coordinating Center for Research
and Publications (UCRP), through
its publishing label Libro
Agustino, have been acquired by
libraries of leading institutions in
the country and abroad.
Internationally, UCRPpublished
books are in the
libraries of Stanford University,
Cornell University, Yale
University, University of
California-Berkeley, University of
Michigan, Pennsylvania State
University, San Jose State
University (California, USA),
International Islamic University
(Malaysia), Institute of Southeast
Asian Studies (Singapore), and
Vietnam Academy of Social
THE NATIONAL Book
Development Board (NBDB) has
recently approved the registration
of the USA Coordinating Center
for Research and Publications
(UCRP) as Book Publisher,
through Certificate of
Registration No. 1254.
NBDB is the government
agency mandated to develop and
support the Philippine book
publishing industry. It was
created by R.A. 8047 or the
Book Publishing Industry
Development Act in 1995. Its
major areas of concern include
the following: enhancing the
competitiveness of the Book
Industry, developing and
supporting the creative sector,
enhancing textbook quality
procurement, enhancing local
Sciences. They are also listed in the
holdings of the National Library of
Australia, Library of Congress
(USA), San Jose Public Library
(California, USA) and Jacksonville
Public Library (USA).
In the Philippines, UCRPpublished
books are listed in the
internet-accessible catalogues of the
libraries of the following
institutions: Ateneo de Manila
University, University of the
Philippines–Diliman, University of
the Philippines–Baguio, University
of the Philippines–Los Banos, De
La Salle University–Manila, De La
Salle University–Dasmarinas, De La
Salle–College of Saint Benilde,
University of Santo Tomas,
University of San Carlos–Cebu,
Centro Escolar University, Holy
UCRP now registered with NBDB
and international markets for
Philippine books, and
strengthening the NBDB.
UCRP’s registration is in
accordance with the provisions
of R.A. 8047. As a registered
book publisher, UCRP will be
able to enjoy the following,
among others: tax- and duty-free
importation of books, fiscal and
non-fiscal incentives of the Board
of Investments, availment of free
symposia and seminars on book
development and related
activities, display and promotion
of books in international and
local book fairs, access to
industry information through
technical studies and
publications, as well as
participation in NBDB programs
like the Integrated Book
Angel University (Pampanga),
Angeles University Foundation
(Pampanga), Assumption College–
Makati, and Miriam College.
Other institutions in the
Philippines that have acquired
UCRP publications are the
National Library of the Philippines,
the Electronic Library of the
Philippines, and the National Book
Development Board.
Libro Agustino titles are also
carried by international online
booksellers such as Mary Martin,
Amazon, Book Finder, Good
Reads, Open Library, Depot,
among others.
Institutions whose library
catalogues are not accessible
online are not included in the
list. (UCRP)
Development Program, the
Manuscript Fair and Book
Festivals.
The registration of UCRP is
valid within the period 14 April
2010 to 30 April 2013. (UCRP)
14

June 2010 RESEARCH AND PUBLICATIONS
THE MARTIN de Rada Human
Rights Bureau at the University
Coordinaring Center for Research
and Publications (UCRP) held the
7 th St. Augustine Justice and Peace
Forum on 10 February 2010 at the
President’s Conference Room, as part
of the University week celebration.
Titled “Pursuing Peace through
Justice: A Search for Authentic
Existence,” this year’s forum had as
resource person, Rolando E. Medel,
MAT (Philo), faculty member from
the University Department of
Humanities. Prof. Medel
emphasized, among others, that there
can never be peace without justice.
Rowena Isidro, Ph.D., and
Abraham Pinuela, M.A., chairs of
the Social Sciences Department
HR bureau holds 7 th justice and peace forum
and of the Humanities
Department, respectively, were the
forum reactors. Mona Pico,
UCRP Research and Advocacy
Associate, was emcee and
moderator.
Communitas
UCRP engaged as AIM Policy Center research partner anew
THE UNIVERSITY of San
Agustin Coordinating Center for
Research and Publications
(UCRP) has been engaged by the
Asian Institute of Management
(AIM) Policy Center to be the
research partner in Western
Visayas in the conduct of the
nationwide 2009 Philippine
Cities Competitiveness Ranking
Project (PCCRP). This is the
fifth time for the UCRP and the
AIM Policy Center to work
together in the biennial project.
Unlike the previous studies,
the PCCRP 2009 covers only
urbanized cities and excludes
Metro Manila. In Western Visayas,
only Bacolod and Iloilo Cities are
covered in the current round. It is
funded by the United States
Agency for International
Development (USAID) – Local
Implementation of National
Competitiveness through
Economic Growth (LINC-EG)
project and the German Technical
Cooperation (GTZ).
The PCCRP aims to measure
the ability of cities to attract
investments and residents. It
looks at the following
competitiveness indicators: cost
of doing business, dynamism of
local economy, human resources
Professor Medel (L) rousing his audience’s (R) interest
15
This year’s forum was attended
by administrative personnel, faculty
members and Philosophy students of
the University, as well as some invited
guests. It was co-sponsored by the
Humanities Department. (UCRP)
and training, infrastructure,
responsiveness of the local
government unit to business needs,
and quality of life. The project
seeks to promote healthy
competition among cities and
assist their executives and planners
in fine-tuning development plans.
The PCCRP 2009 officially
started in October last year but was
held in abeyance because of the May
2010 campaign and elections. It is
set to resume in June 2010.
Fr. Raul M. Marchan, O.S.A.,
University president, earlier entered
into an agreement with Dr.
Edilberto de Jesus, AIM president,
for this partnership. UCRP
Director Jigger Latoza leads the
Western Visayas research team. He
is assisted by Mona Pico and
Carmen Dureza. (UCRP)

June 2010 RESEARCH AND PUBLICATIONS
SanAg8: The Literary Journal of
the University of San Agustin.
This issue publishes a collection
of Maikling Kuwento, Tula,
Sanaysay, Mga Bagong Likhang
Aklanon, and Mga Rawitdawit
Mula sa Bikol, contributed by
Palanca-winning writers:
Genevieve Asenjo, Isidoro Cruz,
Alicia Tan-Gonzales, John Iremil
Teodoro, and several leading
writers from Manila, Iloilo City,
and the provinces of Capiz,
Aklan and the Bikol region.
I Asked A Cicada & Other
Poems (2 nd printing) by Atty.
Julius P. Elvas. This book is a
compilation of the author’s
poems from 1975-1984.
OFF-THE-PRESS
Pungsod: Damming the Nation:
Region/Nation and the Global
Order in Contemporary West
Visayan Literature by Dr.
Isidoro M. Cruz. This book
examines the discourse of
contemporary West Visayan
literature on region/nation and
the global order, which may
evince a particular imagining of
the nation from a regional
standpoint. It describes how
the region and the nation are
constructed and deconstructed
in writings in the three lingua
franca (Hiligaynon, Filipino, and
English), published from 1986
(EDSA Revolution) to 2003.
Communitas
16

June 2010 PARTNERSHIPS AND EXTENSION
IN CELEBRATION of the
International Human Rights Day,
the Martin de Rada Human Rights
(MdRHR) Bureau at the University
Coordinating Center for Research
and Publications held the 6 th Rada
Human Rights Forum on 10
December 2009 at the USA
Conference Room.
With the theme “Human Rights
of the Youth, Youth for Human
Rights,” the activity was conducted
in partnership with the Commission
on Human Rights-Regional Office
(CHR-RO) 6. It primarily served as a
venue for the presentation of the
Ten-Point Youth Agenda to a panel
composed of representatives from
concerned government agencies. The
activity was attended by various
youth group representatives coming
from different schools and
communities in the island.
Serving as members of the panel
of reactors were: Asec. Raul Banias,
Presidential Assistant for Western
Visayas; Atty. David Bermudo, CHR-
THE UNIVERSITY of San
Agustin hosted a forum of Iloilo
City mayoral candidates last 19
February 2010. Dubbed “Who’s
Ur Mayor: A Forum on Good
Governance,” the event brought
together candidates Raul
Gonzalez, Sr. and Lorenzo “Larry”
Jamora.
Gonzalez and Jamora talked
about their respective platforms
of government. Also, each
introduced his line-up of
HR bureau conducts forum on youth rights
RO 6 Director; Mr. Christopher
Montaño, CHR-RO 6 Information
Officer III; Mr. Sonny Patron,
Office of the Presidential Adviser
on the Peace Process (OPAPP) Area
Officer; and Mr. Mark Borres,
National Youth Comission
Representative.
The Youth Agenda was
crafted during the Youth
Congress held at the USA
Training Center on 9 December.
Participated in by youth and
student organizations from all
over Panay, the congress provided
USA hosts 2010 mayorables forum
candidates for congressman, vicemayor
and city councilors. During
the open forum, various
questions concerning the youth,
the urban poor, health,
education, as well as peace and
order were asked by the audience.
Each candidate was given two
minutes to answer each question.
The event was attended by
students from the University of
San Agustin as well as from other
schools and universities in the city
Communitas
a venue for the young leaders to
identify major issues affecting
their sector and to surface
corresponding solutions. Congress
resource persons were Mr. Leo
Satana, Investigator II of CHR-RO
6, and Mr. Patron of OPAPP.
The youth congress and the
forum aimed to encourage the
youth to exercise their right to
participation. The activity was
facilitated by Mona Pico of the
MdRHR Bureau and Sedfrey
Cabaluna of the CHR-RO 6.
(UCRP)
Participants to the Youth Agenda crafting (L) and presentation (R)
17
of Iloilo. Also present were the
supporters of the mayorables.
Held at the USA Conference
Room, the activity was jointly
organized by the USA Rotaract
Club, the USA Student Council
and the Rotary Club of Iloilo. It
was covered by several media outfits
and was aired live in one of the
local radio stations. Prof. Jigger
Latoza of the College of Arts and
Sciences moderated the forum. (The
Augustinian/UCRP)

June 2010 PARTNERSHIPS AND EXTENSION
TILIPUNAN, also referred to as the
University Community Service
Center, compiled and published the
best practices of the program
services in Alimodian, Iloilo last
December 2009, as it turned
twenty-nine. The document
includes stories of the Agustino Para
Sa Tao volunteers on their simple
attempts of service to make a
difference, which eventually
transformed individuals, families
and communities the Augustinian
way. In the document, one will
learn how Augustinians extended
little acts of kindness and lots of
love, by discovering all possibilities
and knowing no boundaries in
serving others.
“Little-Big Things in Service”
was written and told by fifty-one
community volunteers and Agustino
Para Sa Tao volunteers of the
University who decided to share
how the simple services and
activities in Tilipunan enabled them
to better understand themselves,
and, eventually, to transform a
Christian community.
The essays in the document also
highlight lessons learned in service
both by the community members
and the Augustinians. It hopes to
inspire Augustinians to create more
ways in delivering service. The articles
have sketches on the rationale of
these activities and how they became
important components of the
Tilipunan dynamics.
The document has seven
sections. The first section is entitled
“Our Community Entry–Family
First.” This covers stories about the
Tilipunan Kiddie Center, the feeding
project, health drive–malunggay
planting, USA’s Tilipunan
Tilipunan publishes ‘Little-big things in service’
anniversary, fun games, volleyball
and basketball clinic, and
tournament.
The second section is about
“Tilipunan Banquet;” it contains
articles on the celebration of the
Holy Mass and para-liturgical
services, the banana-leaf plate
making, the food basket, and the
community banquet.
The third section is focused on
“Partnership for Empowerment.”
Topics in this section are as follows:
the Tilipunan Educational Assistance
Project, the Tilipunan-Ginomoy
Blood Bank Account, the “Piso sa
Puso” Fund Raising Campaign,
“Tilipunan Tiyangge,” the
community mural, and the Tilipunan
beauty contests.
The fourth section is about
“Teaching Service.” This spans on
the Agustino Para Sa Tao
volunteers’ experiences as
facilitators and trainees. The
articles encase home visits, first
Communitas
lunch of volunteers, the
volunteers community program,
volunteers’ time, the actionreflection-action
session, and the
volunteers’ overnight immersion.
The fifth section is entitled
“Echoes of Service.” The articles
shared are all about services of the
Agustino Para Sa Tao after their
training as volunteers. This covers
the old clothes donations,
“Simpatiya sa Pamilya” Project,
painting jobs, play-to-learn activity,
Tilipunan Brotherhood Project, and
baranggay police empowerment
activities.
The sixth section is about the
“Community Treasure–The Aganan
River.” This part documents the
efforts poured in for the “Pag-ulikid
sang Tilipunan sa Suba Aganan.”
Lessons from activities like the
carpentry work for the seedling
nursery, tree planting, lantern
parade, parol and Christmas tree
contests, and the children’s art
exhibit are well-covered.
The last section is entitled
“Our Gifts.” This has stories of
volunteers who have come to
embrace the gifts of persons, events,
especially volunteerism.
“Little–Big Things in Service”
was materialized through the
leadership of the Community
Service Center’s Executive Director,
Rev. Fr. Danilo M. Carido, O.S.A.;
editing job was by Ma. Eden O.
Yap-Aguirra, Training Officer; the
computer lay-out was done by Mr.
Dominico Laude, teacher
volunteer; and cover illustration
was by Ronniel Gentica, a College
of Engineering and Architecture
student volunteer. (M.E.O. Yap-
Aguirra)
18

June 2010 PARTNERSHIPS AND EXTENSION
DR. LILIA S. Teves, the
faculty coordinator for
community service of the
College of Education, was
provincial finalist in the
Metrobank Foundation
Search for Most Outstanding
Teacher in the College Level
category last March 2010. She
was given recognition for her
contributions in inspiring
colleagues to adapt her
concept of Full Circle in
Teaching that is, teaching
future teachers to teach
others through community
service.
The Augustinian teacher
was noted to have consistently
COMMUNITY members in
Alimodian and Augustinian
volunteers paid tribute to Ms.
Corazon Buenvenida, faculty
coordinator for community
service of Tilipunan in the
Basic Education Department.
The tribute was done in
Ginomoy, Alimodian last 20
March 2010.
Ms. Buenvenida volunteered
her services for Tilipunan way
back in 1980. She was part of
the original team spearheaded
by then University Rector, Rev.
Fr. Eduardo Perez, O.S.A., who
established the pillars of the
Community Service Center.
Communitas
Community service volunteer is Metrobank finalist
Dr. Teves
earned an excellent evaluation
from the dean of her college
Tilipunan salutes 30-year teacher-volunteer
Ms. Buenvenida
During the tribute, the
contributions of Ms. Buenvenida
and her students. She also
framed the curricula for B.S.
in Hotel and Restaurant
Management (HRM) and for
the certificates in Food
Service Technology and the
Culinary Arts (CA). She has
further served the University’s
Tilipunan for twenty-nine
years. At present, she is the
head of the HRM, CA and
Nutrition and Dietetics
Department of the College of
Education.
Dr. Teves was nominated
in the Metrobank search by
the University President, Rev.
Fr. Raul M. Marchan, O.S.A.
(M.E.O. Yap-Aguirra)
to Tilipunan were recognized,
especially in the formulation of
the Tilipunan Brotherhood
Project and the opening of the
Tilipunan Reading Center. She
has inspired the younger
Augustinians in serving others
through simple efforts like
declaring special days to
campaign for reading materials,
rain coats, socks, toys and
toothbrushes.
While in the community,
Ms. Buenvenida was valued most
because of her influence in
teaching parents to value
children’s education. (M.E.O.
Yap-Aguirra)
19

June 2010 PARTNERSHIPS AND EXTENSION Communitas 20
6 th “ Salamat Tilipunan, Salamat Aganan” art exhibit mounted
Art works of the Tilipunan kids
ART WORKS hanged proudly in
the walls of the Ginomoy Multi-
Purpose Hall in Alimodian, Iloilo as
seventeen pre-schoolers of the
Tilipunan Kiddie Center opened the
annual “Salamat Tilipunan, Salamat
THE COLLEGE of Arts and
Sciences (CAS), with its dean,
Dr. Isidoro M. Cruz,
spearheaded the kick off of the
Tilipunan Computer Literacy
Project last 6 December 2009 in
Alimodian, Iloilo. The college
turned-over to the Ginomoy
Barangay Council a computer
unit for community use,
particularly in the preparation of
documents and in incorporating
computer lessons for the
Tilipunan children.
To start off the alternative
education, faculty members from
the CAS-Information
Technology (IT) Department,
with their head Prof. Josephine
de Asis, and Tilipunan
volunteer Dominico Laude,
spent their time last 29 May
2010 in Alimodian to facilitate
hand-on basic computer
training to barangay officials
Art Art works works of of the the Tilipunan Tilipunan kids kids
Aganan” Art Exhibit last 20 March
2010. The exhibit is the Tilipunan
children’s way of expressing their call
to protect and conserve the
resources of the Aganan River. The
master pieces of the children were
CAS leads Tilipunan computer literacy project
and community volunteers. IT
Professors Christopher Langrio
and Rodrigo Delmoro served as
speakers for Microsoft Word
and Excel. The training will
arm the community in
improving documents
preparation in the barangay.
made out of materials collected from
the river banks in the community.
Prior to the exhibit, Agustino
Para Sa Tao volunteers Ronniel
Gentica (College of Engineering and
Architecture), Marfred Gene
Camtan (College of Arts and
Sciences) and Ruben Ryan Camina
(College of Business Administration
and Accountancy) daubed the
replica of the Aganan River in the
walls of the hall where the art works
were displayed. Ma. Eden O. Yap-
Aguirra, Community Service Center
Training Officer, together with Ms.
Flordeliza Tagurigan facilitated the
art workshop with Tilipunan
Children. (M.E.O. Yap-Aguirra)
CAS faculty members mentoring the barangay officials
For School Year 2010-11, the
college, with its faculty coordinator
for community service, Ms. Irene
Grace Galon, and the student
volunteers, will conduct a series of
computer education sessions with the
Tilipunan children. (M.E.O. Yap-
Aguirra)

June 2010 PARTNERSHIPS AND EXTENSION
THE COMMUNITY Service
Center (CSC), the apostolate arm
of the University of San Agustin,
always pursues the promotion of
family life development through
spiritual formation for
community transformation. This
gave birth to the launching of the
“Food for the Soul Project” in
October 2009.
CSC ‘Food for the Soul’ project launched
Tilipunan volunteers and staff segregating the rosary beads
Prof. Lerma Paris, faculty
member of the College of
Pharmacy and Medical Technology
participated in various activities in
May 2009. She represented the
University during the launching of
Earth Hour at SM City,
Mandurriao, Iloilo City. The
launching was backed-up by the
exhibits put up by the Community
and Public Health Class in the
university. She delivered a talk on
important information concerning
ozone layer protection after the
opening of the exhibit.
Paris also attended a seminar
on “Research Assessment
The CSC Management team
led by Fr. Danilo M. Carido,
O.S.A., campaigned for rosary
beads and Hiligaynon Bibles from
the members of the University.
The effort formed part of the
annual gift giving during the
Tilipunan anniversary’s Regalo
Agustino. The overwhelming
response of the Augustinians to
PMT prof in extension and research activities
Framework” conducted by the
Regional Health Research and
Development Committee
(RHRDC) of the Department of
Science and Technology-Regional
Office 6 (DOST-RO 6), at the
Sarabia Manor Hotel last 20 May
2009. The seminar was all about
concerns and needs in health
research, framework and gathering
of researches from different schools
in Region VI, identification of
agenda, funding institutions, and
research consultancy. Paris
participated in the activity as
member of the RHRDC-DOST 6
and as representative of the
Communitas
Tilipunan’s call to share led to
the distribution of three
hundred twenty copies of bibles
and six hundred forty pieces of
rosary beads to Tilipunan
children and parents in
Alimodian, Oton and Leganes,
Iloilo.
The project sustained the
spiritual feeding activities of the
CSC like sharing of life’s stories
during the monthly Word of
Life sessions among the children
and their parents, and the
annual community recollections
during the Holy Week.
Further, having been
inspired by the project, the
Basic Education Department,
with its faculty coordinators for
community service Ms. Rizalin
Gubatanga and Ms. Corazon
Buenvenida, facilitated the Live
Rosary in Ginomoy last 24
October 2009. (M.E.O Yap-
Aguirra)
University by virtue of her being
chair of the college’s Research
Management Group.
In a “Planning Workshop on
Priority Health Research
Programs for Region 6”
sponsored by the DOST-RO 6,
Paris also acted as participantfacilitator.
The activity was held
at the University Instructional
Media Center on 9-10 November
2009. It enabled the members of
the research team determine the
health profile and status of the
region and helped them identify
researchable areas in health care.
(R.G. Bayuran)
21

June 2010 AT-A-GLANCE
GRADUATE SCHOOL
GS acting dean attends PAGE assembly, elected to
nat’l board
Dr. Ruby D. Catalan, acting dean of the Graduate
School (GS), attended the 44 th National Assembly
and Seminar Workshop of the Philippine Association
for Graduate Education (PAGE) held last 24-26
February at the Punta Villa Resort, Iloilo City. This
activity is a yearly gathering of graduate school deans,
professors and students to discuss issues relative to
graduate education.
This year’s theme is “Enhancing Research Culture
in Philippine Higher Education Institution, Part III.”
Dr. Rosita L. Navarro, former PAGE National
President and current Chairman of the Philippine
Association of Colleges and Universities Commission
on Accreditation (PACUCOA), gave the keynote
address. Dr. Navarro stressed that the most important
way of enhancing research culture in a graduate
school, is for it to undergo voluntary accreditation of
its programs.
In the same event, Dr. Catalan was elected
member of the PAGE National Board representing the
Visayas region. She is currently PAGE-VI Vice-
President for Iloilo. (A.M. Perales)
Grad School sponsors 2 nd research colloquium
As part of the University Day activities, the
Graduate School (GS) sponsored the 2 nd Research
Colloquium last 13 February 2010. The activity was
primarily organized to recognize the graduates of
Academic Year 2008-09. It also served as a venue for
research dissemination.
Three research presenters were chosen by the
different program advisers during the colloquium. Dr.
Rowena V. Bañes, Ph.D. in Psychology, presented her
dissertation on “Youth Sexuality and Psycho-Sexual
Lifestyle: Keystone Towards a Gender Responsive and
Transformative Psycho-Educational Program.”
Ms. Nelda S. Sumaculub, M.A. in Education-
Filipino, presented her study entitled “Kakayahan sa
Talasalitaan at Kaalamang Natamo sa Filipino ng mga
Communitas
Estudyante sa Unang Taon sa Kolehiyo.” Mr. Audy
Morphy Deasis, faculty member of the USA Basic
Education Department, presented his thesis on
“Study Habits and Attitudes of the High School
Students of the University of San Agustin: Basis of
Guidance Program on Academic Excellence.”
During the event, the guests were welcomed by
Dr. Ruby D. Catalan, acting dean of the Graduate
School. Dr. Remedios S. Somcio, chair of the GS
Research Management Team, provided the statement
of objectives of the colloquium. Dr. Somcio stressed
the importance of research not only for earning an
academic degree but also as a contribution to the
body of knowledge. Prof. Salome O. Siaton, closed
the program with a strong challenge to the GS
students to pursue research not only as an academic
requirement but as an opportunity to contribute to
society’s development. (A.M. Perales)
COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
Former CAS dean elected CTGP-R6 prexy
The Catholic Teachers Guild of the Philippines
(CTGP) has elected Dr. Nora P. Legaspi, former dean
of the College of Arts and Sciences, as president for
Western Visayas, during its Regional Conference and
Board of Directors’ Election for Western Visayas, held
at the Iloilo Grand Hotel in December last year.
Four other Augustinian professors also earned top
posts in said organization. College of Pharmacy and
Medical Technology Dean Victoria Sustento was
elected as Vice-President, and Department of
Humanities Chair Abraham Pinuela was elected as
Secretary. Faculty members Flora Hojilla and Reynold
Tavares, on the other hand, were elected as Treasurer
and Board Member, respectively.
With the theme, “The Role of the Catholic
Teacher in the Mission of the Church,” the seminar
was co-sponsored by the Theology Department
headed by Fr. Jonas M. Mejares. Outgoing CTGP
President, Dr. Belen Tanco, opened the event and
spoke about the organization’s goals of infusing
Catholic ideals in improving educational values in the
country, and, living up to the virtues of being a
22

June 2010 AT-A-GLANCE
Catholic teacher. Other speakers were Ms. May Erika
Bolaños and Arch. Susan Petilla from the University
of Sto. Tomas, who respectively talked about religious
values in learning and the implementation of new
technology in the classroom, better known as “elearning.”
CTGP was originally founded in 1957 as a
Catholic Action organization mandated by the
Archdiocese of Manila. It is a member of the Union
Mondiale des Enseignants Catholiques (World Union of
Catholic Teachers. (The Augustinian/ UCRP)
COLLEGE OF PHARMACY AND MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY
College med tech personnel attend lectures
To improve faculty instruction in the field of
medical technology, the college encouraged the
attendance of its medical technology personnel to
a series of scientific lectures.
Last 27 October 2009, the department
conducted a lecture on “Basic Principles of Blood
Group Antibody-Antigen Reactions” at the
University Instructional Media Center (IMC).
The activity was attended by the following:
Rosario Barrido, Consuelo Martina Daza, Zesil
Gay Gelle, Elsa Juanillo, Jose Perez, Lerma Paris,
and Rosemarie Visitacion. The resource person
was Prof. Josephine Milan from St. Louis
University in Baguio City.
The department invited Dr. Mary Giselle S.
Alfeche to share her comprehensive knowledge on
“Blood Components and Their Indications.” The
same personnel attended the talk held at the IMC
on 9 December 2009. They were also at the “Lecture
on Smoking” by Dr. Lorelei Sirilan, conducted on
13 February 2010 at the USA Conference Room.
The lecture was sponsored by the Health and Safety
Committee of the University.
Gelle participated in the “Training on Good
Clinical Practice” last 3-4 December 2009. It was at
the Colegio San Agustin in Bacolod City.
Three professors from the department attended
the lecture-seminar on Pre-Analytical Variables for
Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APPT) and
Communitas
Prothrombin Time (PT), Fibrinogen Degradation
Products and Fibrin, Thrombophilia,
Standardization of Peripheral Correlation of Acute
Leukemias. They were Barrido, Gelle and Paris. Held
at the PHO Conference Room of the Iloilo
Provincial Capitol, the lecturers were Dr. Alejandro
Arevalo and Dr. Rodrigo Domingo. (R.G. Bayuran/
UCRP)
3 Augustinians get PAMET scholarship
After a two-month screening process, three
sophomores taking up Bachelor in Medical
Laboratory Science (B. M.L.S.) got three of the
fifteen slots for the 2009 Philippine Association of
Medical Technologists (PAMET) scholarships.
Allin Joy Emboltura, Jel Ann Suclan, and Iris
Isobelle Sumaculub qualified as national PAMET
scholars after undergoing a series of panel interviews
and an IQ test. As PAMET scholars, they will enjoy
a 100 per cent scholarship, to cover tuition and
miscellaneous fees, from the sponsoring
organization. In addition, they will receive book
allowances until they graduate.
The aspirants were endorsed by the College of
Pharmacy and Medical Technology, basing on their
academic performance and exemplified leadership.
They then joined the top twenty-five applicants for
the final screening.
After being notified by mail that they reached
the final fifteen, Emboltura, Suclan, and Sumaculub
attended the orientation and awarding ceremonies at
the Manila Peninsula Hotel in October 2009.
Procter and Gamble Philippines and the
Philippine Association of Schools of Medical
Technology and Public Health (PASMETH), Inc.
have been granting these scholarships to deserving
students for the past twenty years.
To continue their scholarship, the students need
to abide by these regulations: maintain a grade of at
least eighty per cent in all their subjects, take the
required number of units or subjects prescribed by
the school curriculum, must not accept other
scholarships, must not abandon or relinquish the
study grant or take a leave of absence without
permission, and must not violate school policies
rules and regulations.
23

June 2010 AT-A-GLANCE
The primary aim of the PAMET scholarship
program is to support and promote medical
technology as a profession, give back to society, and
uplift public health as a measure of a healthy lifestyle.
A total of 156 applicants vied for this year’s
PAMET scholarships. (The Augustinian/ UCRP)
39 th PASMETH convention challenges med tech
educators
Participants to the PASMETH convention
The 39 th PASMETH (Philippine Association of
Schools of Medical Technology and Public Health)
convention challenged the medical technology
educators of the university to be globally
competitive.
With the theme “Responding to Global
Challenges through Educational Innovations,” the
convention was hosted by the Medical Technology
Department-College of Arts and Sciences of the
University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos in
Bacolod City last 23-24 April 2009.
Fr. Raul M. Buhay, O.A.R., VP-Academics,
welcomed the participants to the convention while
PASMETH President Dean Zenaida C. Cajucom gave
the Opening Remarks. The keynote Speaker was
Hon. Wilson Gamboa, Jr., Member of the
Sangguniang Panlungsod ng Bacolod.
Some of the topics which challenged the
academic teaching and learning preferences of the
Augustinian educators included the bench-marking
of the B.S. in Medical Technology ladderized
program for the certification of phlebotomist and
Communitas
the presentation of the matrix-question format for
the Bachelor in Medical Laboratory Science
(formerly, B.S. in Medical Technology) board
examinations. It was discussed in the convention
that PASMETH continually provides services to
improve the quality of education in the country in
the field of clinical laboratory science.
The medical technology educators coming from
the University of San Agustin were Dean Victoria
Sustento, together with Professors Lerma Paris, Ma.
Deanna Jolito, Zesil Gay Gelle, Helen Samson, Ma.
Consuelo Martina Daza, and Rosario Barrido. (R.G.
Bayuran)
College faculty members in pharmaeconomics
seminar
24
Professors Richie Bayuran, Jacqueline Blancaflor,
Mary Anne Corpus, and Remi Charlene Salvilla of
the college attended the Philippine Association of
Colleges of Pharmacy-Faculty Development Seminar
(PACOP-FDS) on Pharmacoeconomics and
Pharmaceutical Marketing last 17 April 2009 at the
Adamson University.
The invited guest speaker during the seminar was
Dr. Jonas M. Policarpio, Medical Director for
Consumer Health and Pharmacoeconomics
Program, Coordinator of United Laboratories
(Unilab), and Chief Operating Officer of
TransMedica Inc. He noted that pharmacoeconomics
and pharmaceutical marketing, though the term
themselves depict the financial aspect of the
profession, have great impact on health care in
general and on pharmaceutical care in particular.
Dr. Policarpio shared how pharmacoenomics
influences both the pharmaceutical and commercial
industry. He also shared that he was one of the
persons behind various Unilab TV commercials.
When he quoted the talent fee of various actors and
actresses endorsing Unilab products, the seminar
participants realized how amazing
pharmacoeconomics is. Dr Policarpio also shared
the studies he conducted about the differentiation
and clustering of medication in reference to age and
type of disease. The information and data obtained
in some of his scholarly works in medical

June 2010 AT-A-GLANCE Communitas 25
fellowship helped big pharmaceutical companies
maintain their pride and strengthen their
credibility.
Before ending his lecture, the resource person
challenged all participants to teach
Pharmacoeconomics.
The seminar ended with astounding feedback from
the participants. The guest speaker, however, remarked
that it was not him who made a name; it was
pharmacoenomics. (R.G. Bayuran)
AMHERST conducts talk with pharmacy students
Amherst Laboratories, Inc. held a lecture attended
by senior Pharmacy students of the University last 2
July 2009. The one-hour lecture was conducted by Ms.
Eloisa Casis and Mr. Misael Cullano, both from
Amherst.
The speakers shared that Amherst Laboratories,
Inc., subsidiary of United Laboraties, Inc., is a state-ofthe-art
pharmaceutical plant located at Mamplasan,
Biñan, Laguna. They also informed the students that
the inauguration of Amherst Laboratories was led by
President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
Quoted from the newsletter, “The Filipino
Entrepreneur Website,” Amherst Laboratories, Inc.
is a 1.7 Billion Pharmaceutical Plant. It’s
administrators are seeking to hire competent
individuals who are interested to be part of the
young, dynamic, and talented workforce in
pharmaceutical industry.
Amherst Labotatories, Inc. visits different
schools of Pharmacy in Luzon, Visayas and
Mindanao to inform senior Pharmacy students that
the company has already existed for almost two
years, and is in need of qualified workers coming
from the profession. (R.G. Bayuran)
PMT college visits Ginomoy
The college conducted a Medical-Dental
Mission at Brgy. Ginomoy, Alimodian, Iloilo last
21 February 2009. Prof. Mary Ann Corpus,
Coordinator for Community Outreach, managed
and facilitated the said program in coordination
with the Iloilo Dental Society.
Dr. Melvin Gregorio Sumagaysay and Dr.
Adeno Bermejo joined the mission for free and
helped in the assessment and diagnosis of patient’s
health condition. On the other hand, health
lectures about preventive measures and proper use
of herbal plants were delivered by some faculty
members of the college. The Epsilon and
Apothecarian Council officers, together with other
student volunteers participated in tree a planting
activity.
Free medicines like antibiotics, antidiarrheals,
antihypertensives, cough and cold preparations,
multivitamins and minerals were distributed to the
residents of the barangay.
One of the goals of the college is to provide the
best care possible to the people of Ginomoy, its
adopted barangay. Through this outreach program,
the calling and pride of both pharmacy and medical
technology profession as members of the health care
team is manifested. (R.G. Bayuran)
COLLEGE OF NURSING
Nursing students top city-wide research tilt
Augustinian student-researchers from the
College of Nursing topped the first Inter-school
Nursing Students’ Research Contest held at the
De Paul College on 08 April 2010, and earned
for the University its first research award in the
field of nursing.
“Guava Leaves Decoction: Its Healing Effect
on Diabetic Foot Ulcer among Diabetic Clients
from San Miguel, Iloilo,” was the title of the
research paper of the group that garnered an
average score of 86. 30 per cent and won first
place in the contest.
The research group was composed of Kevin
Villa (group leader), Emmanuel Barcelona,
Marjoelyn Calico, Gladys Dorilag, Lowie
Gumawag, Jade Ann Jayme, Ma. Ruthelia
Majano, and Noreen Mae Orquinasa. The
research adviser was Ms. Lorna Badian, R.N.
In an interview, Villa expressed his happiness
saying, “It’s so fulfilling to give honor to the

June 2010 AT-A-GLANCE Communitas 26
college and the University.” He added, “I’m very
proud that, at last, we have been rewarded after
the hard work of finishing the paper.”
Brainwest Career Direction Specialist, review
and training center for various professions,
organized the first Inter-School Nursing
Students’ Research Contest. The final criteria for
judging included: 1) manuscript, 20 percent; 2)
presentation, 25 per cent; and 3) defense, 25
percent.
The judges for the contest were Roman Sanares, a
statistician from the University of the Philippines
Visayas, Dr. Ma. Helena Desiree from Colegio del
Sagrado Corazon de Jesus, and Dr. Sofia Chua from
the Center for Health Development of the
Department of Health – Region VI. (The Augustinian/
UCRP)
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE
CEA faculty elected PSME-Iloilo prexy
Engr. Elmer N. Tolosa, faculty member of the
College of Engineering and Architecture, is now the
new president of the Philippine Society of Mechanical
Engineers, Inc. (PSME), Iloilo Chapter. He was elected
during the General Assembly and Technical Seminar
held at the Sarabia Manor Hotel on 17 October 2009
by the 2010 Board of Directors.
In his acceptance speech during the turn-over
ceremony and New Year’s Party on 6 January 2010 at
the Marina Restaurant, he stressed the importance of
mechanical engineers in today’s global industrialization.
He challenged all the mechanical engineers present
during the occasion to actively exercise the profession
pursuant to the provisions of R.A. 8495, the law
which regulates the practice of mechanical engineering
in the country. He also encouraged them to convince
graduating high school students to take the Mechanical
Engineering (ME) course. He said that the demand for
mechanical engineers here and abroad will increase in
the next five years but it could hardly be filled in
because of the dwindling number of ME graduates.
Engr. Tolosa is also former Chapter President of
the Pollution Control Association of the Philippines,
Inc. (PCAPI), Region VI, while working at a sugar
refinery. He was also one of the founding members of
the Sugar Industry Environment Committee, whose
chairman was no other than the 2010 Commencement
Speaker of the University of San Agustin, Engr. Jeffrey
Mijares. (M.A.S. Hermo)
COLLEGE COLLEGE OF OF EDUCA EDUCATION
EDUCA EDUCA TION
Values Ed classes co-sponsor CTGP seminar
The College of Education (CoEd) values
education classes, under the advisory of Dr. Aurora P.
Julito, and in cooperation with the Catholic Teachers’
Guild of the Philippines (CTGP) held an echo
seminar and lecture on “The Role of the Catholic
Teacher in the Mission of the Church” at the Iloilo
Grand Hotel last 6 March 2010.
The participants were the Bachelor of Elementary
Education sections 1-1 and 1-2 students from CoEd.
Dr. Alex B. Facinabao, Dean of the college, opened
the activity with his welcome remarks. Dr. Nora P.
Legaspi, Dr. Aurora P. Julito and Sr. Serafica
Tolentino, O.P., delivered their speeches respectively,
focusing mainly on the idea about being a lay teacher
with a vision and mission of that of the Catholic
Church. Dr. Legaspi is the president of CTGP. Both
Dr. Julito and Sr. Tolentino are present members of
said organization.
One of the lines underscored in the seminar was
that found in the book, The Modern Challenge to
Religious Education, edited by W. Reedy: “The
harvest of the Catholic teachers is also the concern of
all who understand the value of Catholic
education.”(J.V. Pedregosa)
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION AND ACCOUNTANCY
Augustinian accountants in 64 th PICPA nat’l confab
Five Augustinian accountants attended the 64 th
PICPA (Philippine Institute of Certified Public
Accountants) Annual National Convention held in
Manila on 30 November to 2 December 2009 with
the theme, “Live it up . . . the PICPA spirit.” They
were Dr. Lucio T. Encio, Prof. Christine P. Gamba,

June 2010 AT-A-GLANCE Communitas 27
Prof. Fatima T. Peralta, Prof. Hazel Sabio, and Prof.
Dionisio Villeta.
The most important topics discussed, among
others, was the proposal to implement the five-year
Bachelor of Science in Accountancy (BSA) curriculum
effective the Academic Year 2010-2011. The proposed
five-year BSA curriculum was recommended by the
Commission on Higher education (CHED) Technical
Committee for Accountancy Education based on its
comparative analysis of the educational systems in
various countries (USA, Canada and other European
countries). The analysis showed that it takes an
average of sixteen years for a student in other
countries to complete a college education (seven years
in the elementary, five years in high school, four 4
years in college). This may imply, therefore, that the
level of education of our first year college student is
equivalent to 3 rd to 4 th year high school. In view of
this, the first two years of the proposed five-year
program is referred to as pre-university education.
Accordingly, professional education courses should be
offered only after completion of the two-year preuniversity
education.
The proposed BSA 2 + 3 program is a very
demanding, competitive, and rigorous course of study
that develops skills in critical thinking, problem
solving, written and oral communication, and
decision making, in addition to developing the
necessary tools to engage in lifelong learning after
graduation. To successfully complete the BSA
program, students are expected to possess a high level
of maturity, motivation, and self-discipline.
Specifically, CHED policies and standards state,
“Educators delivering professional accounting
education programs need to respond to the changing
needs of the international accountancy profession as
well as individual professional accountants. Hence,
their teaching methods should focus on providing
students with the tools for self-directed learning after
they become professional accountants. Educators are
free to adopt the methods that work best in their
particular cultures. However, they may need to be
trained and encouraged to use a broad range of
learner-centered teaching methods that include the
use of case studies, projects and other means to
simulate work situations; working in groups; adapting
instructional methods and materials to the everchanging
environment in which the professional
accountant works; pursuing a curriculum that
encourages self learning so that students learn to learn
on their own and carry out this skill with them after
becoming professional accountants; integrating
knowledge, skills, professional values, ethics and
attitudes across topics and disciplines to address
many-sided and complex situations typical of
professional demands; emphasizing problem
identification and problem-solving which encourages
identifying relevant information, making logical
assessments and communicating clear conclusions;
exploring research findings; and stimulating students
to develop professional skepticism and professional
judgment.” (L.T. Encio)
BIOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Dept hosts 6 th reg’l quiz bowl
The USA Department of Biological Sciences
hosted the 6 th Regional Inter- High School Biology
Quiz Bowl last 17 February 2010 at the Nursing
Review Room, Urdaneta Hall, University of San
Agustin. Thirty-eight public and private schools from
the region participated in the said event.
Anfernee Joan Ng of Sun Yat Sen High School,
Iloilo City emerged as the champion. Carl Lurenz T.
Ferasol from Buenavista National High School and
Smith N. Nuevaespaña from St. Louise de Marillac of
Miagao, garnered the second and third places,
respectively. (N.F. Latumbo)
Bio faculty elected as BIOTA-WV prexy
Prof. Ma. Delsa P. Gange, chair of the Department
of Biological Sciences of the University of San
Agustin, was elected president of the Biology Teachers
Association of the Philippines (BIOTA-Phils.), Inc. –
Western Visayas Chapter during the regional
convention held last 4-5 December 2009 at St.
Anthony’s College in San Jose, Antique.
Professors Ferly V. Peñaverde and Jennifer F.
Wong, both faculty members of the same department,

June 2010 AT-A-GLANCE Communitas 28
were likewise elected as Treasurer and as member of
the Board of Directors, respectively, for the tertiary
level during the said convention. (T.S.S. Balgos)
Bio dept co-sponsors reg’l student research
competition
The department co-sponsored with the BIOTA-
Philippines – Western Visayas Chapter the 5 th
Regional Student Research Competition held last 18
February 2010 at the Conference Room of this
University. The competition was participated in by
students from the secondary and tertiary schools who
either gave oral presentations or submitted research
poster papers.
In the secondary level individual oral
presentation, Prebillo of Janiuay National High
School won the first place, Buenafe of Oton National
High School, second place, and Pacheco, also of
Janiuay National High School, third place.
The group category had the duo of Indicao and
Sumagpao from Janiuay National High School
emerging as champions, De la Pena and Cruz of Iloilo
National High School-SSC, second, with Limuel and
Davila, also of Janiuay National High School, placing
third.
Esmillarin of Negros Occidental National High
School got the first place in the research poster paper
category; Tagurigan of Alimodian National High
School came in second, and Toroy of Oton National
High School won the third place.
A special award was given to the University of San
Agustin in the tertiary level poster paper category.
(N.F. Latumbo)
CHEMISTRY DEPARTMENT
Dept celebrates chem week 2010
The Department of Chemistry and the Junior
Council of Chemists joined the week-long
University Week celebration through the 11 th
Interschool Chemistry Quiz, the 2 nd Interschool
Scientific Poster Competition and the 2 nd On-the-
Spot Poster Making Contest.
Scientific Poster Competition champs from WVSU-ILS
The 11 th Interschool Chemistry Quiz and the
2 nd On-the-Spot Scientific Poster Competition
were participated in by high school students from
all over Region 6. The team from Guimbal
National High School emerged as champion after a
three-point lead over the First runner-up from
Philippine Science High School-Western Visayas.
Second runner-up was SPED-ISEC. Prof. Lorena
L. Chinprahat was the Quiz Master. Mr. Steve
Janagap of the University of the Philippines
Visayas was the chief judge, with Prof. Aneline P.
Tolones, Chemistry Department chair, and Prof.
Vilma G. Silla, department faculty member, as cojudges.
On-the-Spot Poster Making Contest champion, Francisco Lo II
“Bioplastics: Going Green Can Be Easy” of
West Visayas State University-Integrated
Laboratory School (WVSU-ILS) was adjudged

June 2010 AT-A-GLANCE
Chemistry Quiz winners with judges and coaches
champion in the 2 nd Interschool Scientific Poster
Competition. Another entry from the WVSU-
ILS entitled “Vermicast: An Organic Growth
Enhancer for Tomatoes” was First runner-up, and
the study on “Design and Performance Evaluation
of a Waste Digester” from Sta. Barbara National
Comprehensive High School was Second runnerup.
Professors Lerma Paris and Nia Bayona were
the judges.
Last among the list of activities was the 2 nd
On-the-Spot Poster Making Contest. This was
opened to all bonafide students of the University
of San Agustin. The creative artists were each
provided with a drawing board and, using their
own art materials, worked on a poster relevant to
this year’s theme, “Creating Green Solutions
through Chemistry”.
Chief Judge Fr. Nelson Zerda, O.S.A., and
co-judges, Prof. Alma Hermo and Prof. Remi
Charlene Salvilla, declared Architecture student
Francisco Lo II of the the College of
Engineering and Architecture as champion.
Noreen Ponesto and Wilhelm Lizada, both from
the Basic Education Department, Alyn Paul
Emnacen from the College of Nursing, and Fine
Arts student Jeff Ryan Modilla from the College
of Engineering and Architecture were given
special awards. These posters are now on display
at the chemistry bulletin boards of Mendel Hall.
(M.S. Carisma)
Communitas
MATHEMATICS AND PHYSICS DEPARTMENT
Dept sponsors 8 th reg’l quiz, poster-making
contest
The USA-Department of Mathematics and
Physics held the 8 th Regional High School
Mathematics Quiz and the 3 rd Physics Postermaking
Contest last 8 February 2009 at the USA
Conference Room. The theme was “Mathematics
and Physics: The Interconnectedness.”
Fifteen secondary schools coming from the
different parts of Region 6 participated in the
revived regional high school math quiz.
Participants from Iloilo Scholastics Academy (ISA)
bagged the first place; the second place was won
by Iloilo Angelicum School and the third place by
SPED-Iloilo.
The 3 rd Physics Poster-making Contest was
participated in by physics students in the
University. The first place was the poster done by
the BSIT-3A students, second by the BSIT-3C
students, and the third by the BSCS-3 students.
The said poster making contest was sponsored by
the Physics Laboratory headed by Engr. Hazel
Hidrosollo.
Math and Physics Society officers with advisers, Profs. Deleña and
Marquelencia and department chair, Prof. Cartagena
The math quiz and poster making contest were
realized through the efforts of the faculty members of
the Department of Mathematics and Physics headed by
the chair, Prof. Rhodora Cartagena, and the USA-
29

June 2010
Mathematics and Physics Society headed by the
president, Ramuel Borja with advisers, Dr. Rojane
Deleña and Prof. Alfonso Marquelencia. (R.A. Deleña)
SOCIAL SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
Soc Sci profs in conferences and seminars
Professors from the Social Science Department were
part of several conferences and seminars that were recently
conducted in various places in the region and in the
country.
Dr. Rowena V. Isidro, department chair, attended the
30 th National Conference on Local and National History.
It was held at the Holy Name University in Tagbilaran
City, Bohol last 22-24 October 2009.
Professors Teresita Silma S. Balgos and Lorena B.
Salazar attended the “Orientation on R.A. 9700: The
Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program with Extension
and reforms (CARPER) and its Major Programs and
Components.” Conducted by the Department of
Agrarian Reform Regional Office 6, the activity was held
at the Iloilo Grand Hotel on 23 November 2009. Salazar
was also a participant to the “2008 National
Demographic and Health Survey Data Dissemination
Drive” held at the Iloilo Grand Tower, Iloilo City on 2
March 2010. This activity was sponsored by the National
Statistics Office–Regional Office 6.
In the General Assembly and Conference of the
Association of Philippine Colleges of Arts and Sciences
(APCAS) VI, Inc., Prof. Grace D. Galon and Dr. Nora P.
Legaspi, former dean of the College of Arts and Sciences,
were present. Galon attended the activity as participant;
Dr. Legaspi was speaker. Held at the Filamer Christian
College in Roxas City on 22 January 2010, the theme of
the conference was “The Role of HEIs in National
Development.”
Prof. James Mozart R. Amsua was paper reader in the
20 th National Conference on History and Culture
sponsored by the National Commission on Culture and
the Arts and the Asosayon ng mga Dalubhasa, may Hilig
at Interes sa Kasaysayan ng Pilipinas (ADHIKA). The
conference was held at the GSIS Art Museo, Pasay City on
28 November 2009. Amsua’s paper was on “Tatak Pinoy:
Pasajero Sosyal at Patoo Wheel, Gaano nga Ba Ka Sosyal
ang Dating?” (L.B. Salazar/UCRP)
AT-A-GLANCE Communitas 30
OFFICE OF GUIDANCE SERVICES
Guidance Office sponsors Job Fair @ USA
The Office of Guidance Services organized a
university-wide Job Fair last 28 January 2010 at the
USA Student Center. Dr. Ernesto S. Garin, a faculty
member of Saviour International College, was the
invited resource person. He shared his expertise on
enhancing personality and developing knowledge and
skills in job hunting.
During the fair, company representatives visited the
University to conduct on-the-spot interview of
prospective applicants from among the graduating
students who participated in said activity. (J.S. Velez)�
USA recognizes feeder schools
The Office of the University President, in cooperation
with the Office of Guidance Services, made possible the
recognition of Feeder Schools last 10 February 2010.
Recognition was given to the top sixteen city and
provincial high schools that consistently provided the
university with placement test takers and, eventually,
enrollees for the past three consecutive years (2007-2009).
The principals and guidance counselors of the concerned
schools were formally invited and were respectively given
plaques of recognition during a program held at the USA
Gymnasium.
Simple USA tokens were also given to the guests after
a tribute lunch held at the University Instructional Media
Center. (J.S. Velez)
Counselors attend reg’l seminar
Guidance counselors from the University attended
this year’s Philippine Guidance and Counseling
Association (PGCA) Regional Seminar-Workshop held
last 1-3 March 2010 at the Sarabia Manor Hotel, Iloilo
City.
The theme of the event was “The Counselor: In the
Service of the Community.” Augustinian counselors
present were Mrs. Joy Yongque-Robles, Mrs. Myrna Sazon,
and Dr. Nenita L. Villanueva, director of the University
Guidance Services.
Yongque-Robles attended as a participant while Dr.
Villanueva and Mrs. Sazon attended as PGCA officers. (J.S.
Velez)

June 2010 CULTURE AND ARTS
THE USA Kawilihan Dance
Troupe, the world renowned dance
group from the University of San
Agustin, was given the Ani ng
Dangal Award by the National
Commission for Culture and the
Arts (NCCA) and the Office of the
President during an Awarding
Ceremony held last 26 February
2010 at the Heroes Hall of
Malacanang Palace.
Ms. Annie D. Sartorio, USA
Kawilihan Artistic Director, and
Rev. Fr. Pederito A. Aparece,
O.S.A., Prefect of Students and
Director of the Center for Culture
and the Arts, received the award
on behalf of the university.
Ani ng Dangal is a
recognition and appreciation
awarded by the country through
NCCA to artists and arts groups
who have won first prizes or gold
trophies or medals in prestigious
international competitions.
USA Kawilihan Dance Troupe
won the Gold Medal during the 3 rd
International Junior Delphic
Games (Contemporary Dance) held
in November 2007 in Baguio City.
The Dance Troupe presented
its original piece entitled
“Construction Worker.” It was
NOREEN Mae Orquinaza, a 4 th
year B.S. in Nursing student,
won the First Place in the
Poetry Interpretation category
during the Region VI Literary
and Cultural Festival on 1
February 2010. Held at the
West Visayas State University,
the festival was sponsored by
USA Kawilihan is Ani ng Dangal Awardee
choreographed by its Artistic
Director, Ms. Annie D. Sartorio.
During that year, Ms. Sartorio
Augustinian wins poetry interpretation stilt
Communitas
Divinagracia-Sartorio (C) and Fr. Aparece, O.S.A. (extreme R),
with Kawilihan Dance Troupe alumni
Divinagracia-Sartorio (3 rd from L) and Fr. Aparece, O.S.A. (C) with Kawilihan
dancers and other winners
received the Lyra Award for
Excellence in Choreography. (J.P.J.
Petrola)
the Commission on Higher
On the first week of March
Education (CHED) Regional 2010, Orquinaza represented
Math and Physics Society officers with advisers, Profs. Deleña and
Office 6.
Marquelencia Region and department 6 in chair, the Prof. CHED Cartagena National
Orquinaza was trained by Ms. Literary and Cultural Festival
Gladys Confessor, member of the with her piece entitled
faculty of the University of San “Phenomenal Woman” by Maya
Agustin and Executive Secretary Angelou. She won the Second
of the Accreditation and Quality Place in the aforementioned
Assessment Office.
category. (J.P.J. Petrola)
31

June 2010 CULTURE AND ARTS Communitas 32
TRUE to its commitment to
continue harnessing the writing
skills of young and promising
writers of the region, the USA
Coordinating Center for Research
and Publications (UCRP)
conducted the 8 th San Agustin
Writers Workshop on 3-8 May
2010 at the Casa Santo Agostino,
Villa de Arevalo, Iloilo City.
The workshop was
participated in by ten students and
professionals coming from the
provinces of Iloilo and Capiz. The
fellows included: Johnny Artates, Jr.
(Roxas City), Rommel John
Belonio (Roxas City), Norman
Darap (Tigbauan, Iloilo), Lucell
Larawan (Iloilo City), Jamar
Montehermoso (Miag-ao, Iloilo),
Gil Montinola (Mina, Iloilo),
Jerome Norico (Roxas City), Pietros
Val Patricio (Iloilo City), Julie
Prescott (Btac. Nuevo, Iloilo) and
Michelle Serrano (Oton, Iloilo).
The fellowship started with
short talks on “The Art of Creative
Writing” by Dr. Isidoro M. Cruz,
Dr. Alice Tan Gozales and Dr.
Leoncio P. Deriada— all awardwinning
members of the workshop
panel. Dr. Deriada also gave lectures
on “Language is the Medium,”
“Writing a Poem,” and “Levels of
Usage.”
The activities of the four-day
workshop likewise included
critiquing sessions involving the
poems and short stories previously
submitted by the fellows. These
were facilitated by the awardwinning
writer-panelists. To cap the
four-day event, a poetry writing
contest – in English, Filipino,
Hiligaynon and Kinaray-a – was
held. The winners were given books
and medals as prizes during the
UCRP holds 8 th San Agustin writing fellowship
closing ceremonies. Of the short
stories submitted, the top three
best stories were also chosen, and
their authors given prizes.
During the closing ceremonies,
UCRP also launched two Libro
Agostino titles: “I Asked a Cicada”
by Atty. Julius P. Elvas, and
“Pungsod: Damming the Nation”
by Dr. Isidoro M. Cruz. The
ceremony was graced by Rev. Fr.
Edgardo L. Lazo, O.S.A., prior of
the USA community, and Rev. Fr.
Mamerto A. Alfeche, former
president of the university, among
others. (UCRP)
Atty. Elvas (extreme R) presenting a copy of his
book to Fr. Lazo, O.S.A. (C), with UCRP
Director Latoza (extreme L)
Dr. Cruz (extreme R) presenting a copy of his book to Fr. Lazo, O.S.A. (extreme L),
with Director Latoza (C)
Fellows of the workshop with panelists, UCRP staff and volunteers, and guests

June 2010
THE USA Little Theater (USALT)
once again brought the University of
San Agustin to the national scene by
staging “Tarangban” at the Cultural
Center of the Philippines (CCP) and
at the College of St. Benilde-De la
Salle University Manila (CSB-
DLSU) on February of this year.
For the first time in its 35-years
of existence, the USALT performed
in said venues, coinciding with the
National Arts Month celebration.
The theater group performed
“Tarangban” as a participant to the
14 th Tanghal National University and
College Theater Festival and
Conference at the CSB-DLSU from
1-5 February 2010. The play was
then re-staged by the Augustinian
performers at the CCP on 7
February as an official entry to the
2010 Pasinaya CCP Open House
Festival.
The play was written by Edward
Divinagracia, former USALT Artistic
Director, based on Dr. Isidoro
Cruz’s Palanca award-winning poem
which was inspired by Panay’s
indigenous Bukidnon tribe.
Accompanying the USALT
members in their week-long
performance tour in Manila were
Artistic Director Edison Sicad,
former Executive Director Eric
Divinagracia, several alumni of the
USALT and Stage One Company, as
well as local musicians who
performed the music of the play.
Despite initial difficulties in
raising funds for the Manila tour, the
theater group’s performances earned
positive reviews, as printed in the
national broadsheet, The Philippine
Daily Inquirer. In the article titled
“Theater of the young, the here and
now” by Walter Ang and dated 18
March 2010, the USALT’s
CULTURE AND ARTS Communitas 33
USALT in nat’l arts fest
performance was referred to as a
“damned good show.”
In his write-up, Ang elaborated:
“The show was great fun. There was
adventure, a search for love, magic,
monsters, battles. The chanting (by
members of the Panay Bukidnon
Society) throughout the tight show
added a unique aural texture; the
rousing music and sound design was
exhilarating.” (The Augustinian/
UCRP)

June 2010 CULTURE AND ARTS
IN SUPPORT of the United
Nations Millennium Development
Goals, the University’s Performing
Arts groups participated in a threeday
cultural anti-poverty event
called “Lihok Bisaya,” together with
other city-based performing arts
counterparts, at the SM City Iloilo
Activity Center late last year.
Joining the global call against
poverty, the event was realized
through the initiative of the
National Commission for Culture
and the Arts, believing that poverty
alleviation, social transformation
Augustinians host, shine in 44 th ILOPRISAA meet
THE UNIVERSITY hosted the
44 th Iloilo Private Schools
Athletic Association, Inc.
(ILOPRISAA) Meet held last 17-
24 November 2009. With the
theme: “Youth Empowerment
through Education, Culture and
Sports,” the competition was
participated in by teams coming
from different private schools in
the elementary, secondary and
tertiary levels.
The offices of the Center for
Culture and the Arts and of the
Prefect of Students, headed by
Rev. Fr. Pederito A. Aparece,
O.S.A.; the Office of the Cocurricular
Activities, headed by
John Paul J. Petrola; the Basic
Education Department, headed
by its principal, Rev. Fr. Dante
O. Juloc, O.S.A.; and the
Physical Education Department,
with its chair, Ms. Eva Zaldivar,
took charge of the academic,
literary and cultural contests.
USA performing arts group in Lihok Bisaya ’09
and economic sustainability could
be achieved through the power of
art and culture.
The Visayas-wide activity
covered a total of sixteen sites
across the region, including twelve
provinces, six cities and sixteen
municipalities. These areas joined
the campaign with the pledge to
put an end to poverty in the world
by projecting the region’s cultural
diversity.
For the Iloilo City event, the
activities were supported by the city
government which took the lead in
The thirty-five contest categories
were participated in by forty-two
private schools.
The following were the
Augustinian talents who won in
the ILOPRISAA competition:
Jezza Mae Arroz from the
Conservatory of Music,
Champion, Vocal Solo-Classical;
Angelica Edang and Karlo Jay
Laud from the College of
Pharmacy and Medical
Technology, Champion, Dance
Sports-Modern Standard
Category; Kevin George Barrios
from the College of Nursing,
Champion, Filipino Oration;
Quezzy Claire Pedregosa (CAS),
Dyezel Moya (CAS), Peter Deocos
(CAS), Crimson Guirjem
(CoEd), Mark Divinagracia
(CoEd), Kristoffer Paborada
(CoEd), Kissa Kipte (CBAA),
Mary Jane Momper (CBAA),
Roxan Eslaban (CBAA),
Charlson James Guirjem (CN),
Communitas
showcasing the different city-based
cultural groups: USA Choir, USA
Troubadours, CPU Engineering
Chorale, Irong-Irong Dance
Company, USA Kawilihan Dance
Troupe, the University of Iloilo,
NC Gonzales School of Ballet,
USA Little Theater, and the Anne
Divinagracia School of Performing
Arts.
A “Stand Up Against Poverty
Exhibit” by the Visual Artists of
Iloilo was also held at the SM City
venue on the same dates. (The
Augustinian/UCRP)
34
Marriane Joy Mallorca (CBAA),
Francis Louise Montenegro (CN),
and Joem Junsan (CoEd),
Champion, Contemporary
Dance.
The other winners were:
Wilhelm Delos Reyes and Johna
Love Segovia from the
Conservatory of Music, 2nd place,
Vocal Duet-Pop; Alexis Kerr
Alvior from the College of
Business Administration and
Accountancy, 2nd place, English
Extemporaneous Speech; Nikki
Blanco and John Palma from the
College of Pharmacy and Medical
Technology, 1st Runner- up,
Dance Sports-Latin American
Category; and Angelo Oro from
the Conservatory of Music, 3rd place, Guitar Solo.
The first place winners from
the University represented the
Iloilo private schools in the
Western Visayas Private Schools
to page 39

June 2010
Lawyers
(September 2009)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
NEW AUGUSTINIAN PROFESSIONALS
BOARD PASSERS
Communitas
TOPNOTCHER
Jaylord S. Losabia – 1 st place, October 2009 Licensure Exam for Teachers (Elem)
Alpasan, Roumelia B.
Borres, Mark D.
Delfin, Gerri Ann C.
Diestro-Deslate, Gwendolyn B.
Fetilo, Aires P.
Filarmeo, Charmaine Joy P.
Gabinete, John Warren J.
Ganzon, Leo Theodore A.
Layson, Reinier B.
Magallosa, Jan Rey E.
Marquez, Jemil Christian B.
Nuñez, Rene John V.
Pacheco, Peter John Raymund B.
Pagunsan, Pampross J.
Sobrevega, Mary Jane Q.
Suganob, Lynie C.
Viterbo, Llonil R.
Medical Technologists
(March 2010)
Anas, Mark Kennith S.
Belarmino, April Ann G.
Belarmino, Jeannie Lou G.
Bermejo, Chona L.
Billones, Dan Jarvy S.
Cabaluna, Josie C.
Calantuan, Bhea Mae C.
Debuyan, Hyazel T.
Demetillo, Karlyn Joy S.
Lira, Sheena Marie T.
Mirasol, Kimberly L.
Nieves, Joann Marie C.
Nismal, Mary Grace C.
Noriega, Mahal P.
Padernal, Tezza Amor L.
Patrocinio, Christine Joy P.
Pe Benito, Karla Christine G.
Samiana, Mae Flor F.
Tonog, Susan Jane A.
Civil Engineers
(November 2009)
Araneta, Arturo II J.
Ariston, Katherine M.
Baltero, Cywen T.
Cabingasan, Jaypee P.
Cabial, Hervic John A.
Cabrias, Claudio Jr. C.
Caliston, Antonio Jr. P.
Calumag, Sheryl C.
Castro, Aileen M.
De Los Santos, Cheryl N.
Dilag, Michael C.
Garces, Ryan G.
Jalbuena, Christian S.
Meren, Kristan Aris P.
Pabe, Marven P.
Semic, Lorimar S.
Tamayo, Dionice Gabriel G.
Chemical Engineer
(November 2009)
Marsonia, John Lije L.
Electronics Engineers
(October 2009)
Balbontin, Louie John V.
Dequilla, Rejon P.
Masculino, Jo Xi D.
Pe-Benito, Gabriel Ricjohn B.
Mechanical Engineers
(October 2009)
Amon, Raymundo Jr. S.
Asuncion, Ronald T.
De la Goza, Joseph S.
Ecube, Herbert E.
Fernandez, Guiller L.
Villavicencio, Jesus Virgilio B.
Teachers (Elementary)
(October 2009)
Andrade, Mary Hope I.
Antic, Chepeline B.
Apolinario, Richelle Mae M.
Arevalo, Vinzi Marie T.
Ciasico, Liezel D.
De la Cruz, Kristy Marie B.
Delfin, Ednalyn A.
Esclaña, Richard E.
Fajardo, April Faith F.
Gallego, Sharah Mae G.
Genive, Lea G.
Lim, Ivan John T.
Lim Mary Therese P.
Pasigue, Jobert M.
Peñaflor, Florie May R.
Susmeña, Arlene Joy
Ta-aca, Phoebe Denebe T.
Tababa, Ma. Asuncion D.
Tamson, Rhea May G.
Toledanes, Ariane Mae T.
Villareal, Myka Angela P.
Teachers (High School)
(October 2009)
Altobar, Flora Mae M
Apurada, John Royd D.
Bergantino, Myra Lyn S.
Clavecillas, Randy L.
Delmoro, Rodrigo, Jr. V.
Francisco, Gerald S.
Gamlanga, Jocelyn G.
Gayoma, Rhea D.
Gomilla, Lovelyn H.
Lim Carmela D.
35

June 2010 ANNOUNCEMENTS Communitas 36
Pagente, Dyna A.
Pañada, Virna B.
Peñafiel, Christine P.
Ponsaran, Lorena B.
Praile, Gwenlyn Faith C.
Sayno, Calen Grace B.
Sorial, Maricel
Tuburan Dearie Mae B.
Villa, Jefelyn S.
Interior Designers
(September 2009)
Aguilar, Lorie Emilie
Arceno, Russel
Edang, Jinnelyn
Te, Angela Patria
Architects
(June 2009)
Abayon, Lieven L.
Ablanido, Marlon A.
Agustin, Elissa S.
Alfaro, Donnie Ray R.
Jaleco, Dennis A.
Jaruda, Robemar L.
SEARCH FOR THE MOST NUMEROUS AND UPDATED ALUMNI DIRECTORY
University of San Agustin Alumni Association
Iloilo City
RATIONALE:
The University of San Agustin Alumni Association (USAAA) has been constantly endeavoring to update
its Roster of Members in the last couple of years. It has gradually done so through the various lists forwarded by
the Offices of the Registrar and of the Deans of the different colleges in the University. The registration forms filled
out by a number of alumni requesting for ID cards and certificates also helped.
In spite of these, however, the Roster of Alumni Members remains wanting in data. Most of the information
contained therein is either out-dated or inadequate. More specifically, some addresses and contact numbers are
wrong and/or non-existent. This gap is more pronounced among the married female alumni, owing to the fact
that they are more difficult to locate because of the changes in their last names.
Thus, to ensure an extensive and updated Roster of Alumni Members, this contest was launched. The
USAAA believes that in order to activate its members and to involve them in various undertakings of the association,
it first needs to know who and where its members are.
CONTEST RULES AND MECHANICS:
Locsin, Cherry Alpha T.
Loyola, Bryan D.
Quirino, Joel M.
Saluna, Tyrone A.
Salvacion, Allan Bryan D.
Pharmacists
(June 2009)
Abis, Debbie Ann A.
Belonio, Irene Gay S.
Raiza S. Bergalino
Bermejo, Achim Juhara B.
Blando, Jessa Mae D.
Bolivar, Lorenz Ann P.
Buison, Rosca J.
Cachero, Mabelle L.
Castillo, Ma. Jessa Rhayda D.
Celestial, Larle May A.
Chua, Jan Niña Romana T.
Cerveza, Emma Belle A.
Dalisay, Justinne Elaine M.
Ebrada, Mary Jane E.
Fortich, Johna P.
Franco, Connie M.
Glumalid, Nezette Joy G.
Go, Darlene Ann D.
Hanif, Zaineb B.
Hiponia, Ma. Liza A.
Jaen, Irish P.
Joven, Ma. Cecilia P.
Lasdoce, Analei C.
Ng, Julie Ann S.
Po, Ma. Eden Corazon B.
Sua, Ma. Daisy C.
Superal, Mae Joy S.
Tolentino, Nicole S.
Medical Technologists
(March 2009)
Abonado Ma. Kristine M.
Embalsado, Russel G.
Espino, Angelo A.
Estaya, Lovie O.
Flaminian, Ma. Joan P.
Matiling, Elzenor Gloria Alanna D.
Paniza, Menzy P.
Tampos, Marigold O.
Zulla, Peter Niel C.
1. This contest shall be known as the “Search for the Most Numerous and Updated Alumni Directory.”
2. The contest is open to all alumni groups composed of graduates from the University of San Agustin
representing a college, a course or a batch.