Academia - December 2024 Archives - ¾ÅÉ« /category/academia/academia-december-2024/ The Pontifical and Royal Catholic University of the Philippines Thu, 06 Mar 2025 01:23:08 +0000 en-US hourly 1 /wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cropped-800px-Seal_of_the_University_of_Santo_Tomas.svg_-32x32.png Academia - December 2024 Archives - ¾ÅÉ« /category/academia/academia-december-2024/ 32 32 CEAP honors Education Dean Romero with Catholic School Heroes Award /ceap-honors-education-dean-romero-with-catholic-school-heroes-award/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ceap-honors-education-dean-romero-with-catholic-school-heroes-award Thu, 06 Mar 2025 01:23:07 +0000 /?p=192287 The Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) conferred this year’s Catholic School Heroes Award to the Dean of the College of Education Assoc. Prof. Pilar Romero, LPT, Ph.D., at…

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The Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) conferred this year’s Catholic School Heroes Award to the Dean of the College of Education Assoc. Prof. Pilar Romero, LPT, Ph.D., at the CEAP National Convention last November in Davao City.


Dean Romero was recognized for her exceptional service to Catholic education, serving as a guiding light to Campus Ministers and Christian Living Education (CLE) teachers through the Christian Formation Program of CEAP.


Dean Romero was previously the inaugural principal of the UST Senior High School from 2015 to 2018, formerly served as Supervising Teacher for Religious Education majors in the Education High School, and was a recipient of the 18th Dangal ng UST (Honor of UST) Awards – Gawad Benavides during her 35th year of service to the university in 2017.


Aside from her work in UST, Dr. Romero is a seasoned textbook writer and editor, consultant to various Catholic schools on their religious education program. She has been invited to talk on topics related to catechesis, religious education, Catholic education, teacher formation, school administration, and values integration in schools all over the Philippines. She serves as Technical Consultant of the Philippine Catholic School Standards for Higher Education and has participated in international seminars and conferences in key cities in Asia, the USA, and Europe, either as an official University delegate or as paper presenter, and has published articles in journals both local and international.


CEAP is the national association of Catholic educational institutions in the Philippines. Founded in 1941, it now has 1,500 members, which include universities and colleges offering academic and continuing education programs.

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UST’s month-long, multi-campus Paskuhan celebrationsfeature increased community gift-giving efforts, Olympic-themed lights /usts-month-long-multi-campus-paskuhan-celebrationsfeature-increased-community-gift-giving-efforts-olympic-themed-lights/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=usts-month-long-multi-campus-paskuhan-celebrationsfeature-increased-community-gift-giving-efforts-olympic-themed-lights Thu, 06 Mar 2025 01:19:17 +0000 /?p=192286 The ¾ÅÉ« concluded its month-long community celebration of Christmas. With the theme “Ever Thankful, Ever Hopefulâ€, the festivities began with the Lighting Ceremony on November 29, 2024,…

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The ¾ÅÉ« concluded its month-long community celebration of Christmas. With the theme “Ever Thankful, Ever Hopefulâ€, the festivities began with the Lighting Ceremony on November 29, 2024, and culminated on December 20, 2024, with the annual Paskuhan concert and pyromusical display.


The said lighting ceremony on November 29, the last school day before the first Sunday of Advent, began with the Angelus at 6:00 P.M. The UST Secretary-General Rev. Fr. Louie R. Coronel, O.P., EHL, led the Rite of Blessing for the Christmas Tree and Ornaments.
For this year, the 21.5-hectare Manila campus was decorated with over 2000 strands of energy-efficient LEDs, including the 20-meter Christmas tree, and various symbolic lights shaped in line with the Olympic theme, such as rings, bigger-than-life sports equipment, and torches.
UST Facilities Management Office Director Rev. Fr. Dexter A. Austria, O.P., shared that the Olympics was chosen as the decoration theme since it is a global symbol of hope and solidarity.
“In our world right now that is being ravaged by different forms of distress and division, the Olympics brings together countries that may be at odds with each other. Stories of athletes’ perseverance bring hope to many. The Olympic Games are all about coming together, similar to the birth of Christ, whose birth is a symbol of hope for all nations,†said Fr. Austria, who added that the dominant colors visible in the campus decorations are also based on the colors of the Olympic rings.
A highlight of this year’s lighting ceremony is the presence and special participation of the Thomasian Olympic athlete EJ Obiena, who served as the torch bearer. As emphasized by Fr. Austria, Obiena’s strong heart, faith, and positive outlook amid his hard work and life experiences are symbols of hope that strongly align with this theme.

Paskuhan Mass and Agape
The Paskuhan Mass was held at the Plaza Mayor on December 13, presided over by the UST Rector Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., with Rev. Fr. Louie R. Coronel, O.P. as the homilist, and concelebrated by the Dominican Fathers of the Priory of St. Thomas Aquinas.
Prior to the Mass, the Tanglaw ng Tomasino parol-making contest, a sustainable initiative themed “Liwanag ng Mundo, Kulay ng Paskong Tomasino,†served as a pre-event activity spearheaded by the Student Organizations Coordinating Council (SOCC). The various academic units each submitted their own parol.
After the Mass, the Thomasian community partook in the Agape, or Thomasian Christmas Feast. Thomasians claimed their free meal packs from over 20 food stations around campus. Various Hapag Salamat stations with free bibingka, puto bumbong, and ice cream were also available.
During the merry feast, Thomasians were treated to variety shows at different locations around campus. A Christmas-themed drone show above the field signaled the start of the variety show.

Multi-campus festivities
This year is also the first time that the Thomasian community’s celebrations are not limited to the Manila campus: UST General Santos simultaneously joined the lighting ceremony on December 1, and they had their own festivities at the UST GenSan Main Building on December 17 and 18.
For their lighting ceremony, the Associate Vice Rector for Religious Affairs Rev. Fr. Gerard Zabala, O.P., presided over the Rite of Blessing for the Christmas Tree and Ornaments at UST General Santos, assisted by Rev. Fr. Alfredo Fernandez, O.P., while the Associate Vice Rector for Finance and Administration Rev. Fr. Edmund Nantes, O.P., shared his reflection and declared the Paskuhan Season in General Santos open.
Their Christmas tree, inspired by Mindanaoan design, has five carefully crafted layers, representing the first five program offerings of the school for their inaugural academic year 2024-2025. In a communal display of Christmas cheer, each member of the community—support staff, academic staff, and Dominican priests—held a star, each inscribed with their names and wishes, marking their personal connection to the institution and its future.
On December 18, UST Rector Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., presided over the first Paskuhan Mass in UST General Santos.
Meanwhile, the Santa Rosa Research Complex also held its first-ever lighting ceremony and Agape on December 14, 2024. Local government officials including Santa Rosa City Mayor Hon. Arlene Arcilla, benefactors, and researchers joined the celebration.
Before the UST Dr. Tony Tan Caktiong Innovation Center (TTCIC) was lit with colorful lights, UST Secretary-General Rev. Fr. Louie R. Coronel, OP, EHL, presided over a Eucharistic Celebration, with the Facilities Management Office Director Rev. Fr. Dexter A. Austria, O.P. serving as the homilist. Fr. Coronel also led a reflection on the meaning of advent and a few rounds of fellowship games for the alumni, students, academic staff, support staff, and benefactors who joined the festivities.
Also gracing the event were civil engineering alumnus and Archipelago Builders Corporation owner Engr. John Paul Pe, who donated the chapel, and chemical engineering alumna, and Green Canyon Resort and Leisure Farm owner Ms. Adela Palad Jose, who donated the interdisciplinary research hotel at the UST-TTCIC building for the UST College of Tourism and Hospitality Management. The facilities were blessed on the same day, including the UST BEATS (Bacteriophage Ecology, Aquaculture, Therapy and Systematics) Research Group’s Laboratory.
With TTCIC now operational, the UST-Dr. William T. Belo Interdisciplinary Research Institute will soon rise at the 40-hectare campus in Santa Rosa.

Project Ningning
Never forgetting opportunities to give back, the SIMBAHAYAN ¾ÅÉ« Development Office leads the University’s sharing of blessings through their multi-sectoral gift-giving and aid programs under Project Ningning.
Given that the University’s mission is to spread the Light, and the coming of Christ was signified by a bright star, “NINGNING 2024: A UST Paskuhan ¾ÅÉ« Gift-giving Project†shared over 2000 bags of food and school supplies to various sectors: “Kaagapay†(KAsama sa maAGAp na aksyon at PAYo) for University event partners (i.e. barangay officials, police officers, traffic officers, fire safety officers, and disaster risk reduction officers), “Kaparokya†for families of the Basic Ecclesial Communities of the parish, and the Sambahaginan for the maintenance, housekeeping, and security personnel, and the AKaP (Agape para sa mga Kamanlalakbay ngayong Pasko) for the partner communities of the University. AKaP included the turnover of a total of 720 food packs and 480 school supplies to Sulyap Bukas Palad Foundation Inc.; Holy Family Social and Educational Center-Religious of Mary Immaculate; Santissima Trinidad Parish, Malolos, Bulacan; Brgy. Pinagbarilan, Baliuag, Bulacan; Sitio Buga Elementary School; Brgy. Balucuc, Apalit, Pampanga; Brgy. Tabuyuc, Apalit, Pampanga; and Jubilee Shelter Program, Bulacan.
Under Project Ningning, all the University administrative offices and academic units prepared and contributed food items and school supplies for community gift-giving. Sambahaginan was held on December 8, Kaagapay was held on December 13, and AKaP distributions were held from December 16 to 20, while Kaparokya was held on December 21.
UST General Santos also shared gifts with the Muslim community of Ligaya Elementary School near the UST GenSan campus on December 18 through “Makibataâ€, a project advocating for children’s rights by means of creative and strategic workshops and activities.

Concert Gala
Following the Manila campus lighting ceremony, the Thomasian Christmas celebration continued with the UST Christmas Concert Gala on December 2, 2024, directed by the Conservatory of Music Dean Assoc. Prof. Antonio P. Africa, Ph.D. The two-hour live concert at the Santísimo Rosario Parish Church featured popular Christmas songs in English and Filipino performed by various choirs of the University and performers from the Conservatory of Music, which will celebrate its 80th anniversary in 2025.
The concert featured different arrangements of traditional Christmas carols and post-war carols, played by the UST Symphony Orchestra, UST Jazz Band, and UST Wind Orchestra, with vocals by the UST Singers, Coro Tomasino, Liturgikon Vocal Ensemble, and various performers, under the baton of conductors Herminigildo Ranera, Anthony Villanueva, Mark Agpasa, Michael Jacinto, and Reynato Resureccion, Jr. There were also guest performances from the Parent Advocates for Visually Impaired Children and the Aeta ¾ÅÉ« Choir.
Designed to be a family concert that people of all ages can enjoy, the Conservatory of Music Dean Dr. Antonio Africa shared that it is meant to be an enjoyable aural experience for Thomasians of all ages. It remains available to watch online via the UST Facebook page.

Month-long celebration
Also included among the Paskuhan activities were the Christmaseum exhibit at the UST Museum Gallery from November 26 to December 20, the Paskuhan Christmas Pop-up Village from December 2 to 7, the Institutional Advent Recollection on December 9, the ¾ÅÉ« Gift-giving from December 13 to 20, the Paskuhan Mass and Agape on December 13, and the Simbang Gabi from December 15 to 24, among others.
A Thomasian tradition since 1991, the UST Paskuhan season ended on December 20, 2024, with the annual Paskuhan concert featuring OPM Bands December Avenue, Spongecola, and SUD, P-pop group Alamat, and singer Maki. For this day, UST partnered with San Miguel Yamamura Packaging Corporation for their “Balik Lata, Balik Bote†project for proper waste management and recycling in line with the University’s sustainability initiatives.
Aside from the concert, activities on the 20th also included the “Merrython†Paskuhan Fairgrounds at the Plaza Mayor, the Paskuhan Raffle with over 170 minor and 110 major prizes up for grabs, and the highly-anticipated pyromusical display.

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Father Rector leads UST group at QS Higher Education Summit in Macau /father-rector-leads-ust-group-at-qs-higher-education-summit-in-macau/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=father-rector-leads-ust-group-at-qs-higher-education-summit-in-macau Thu, 06 Mar 2025 01:09:53 +0000 /?p=192266 The ¾ÅÉ« (UST) participated in the QS Higher Education Summit: Asia Pacific 2024, held from November 5 to 7, 2024, at the Macau University of Science and…

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The ¾ÅÉ« (UST) participated in the QS Higher Education Summit: Asia Pacific 2024, held from November 5 to 7, 2024, at the Macau University of Science and Technology (MUST). UST was part of the Philippine CHED Delegation led by CHED Chairman Dr. J. Prospero E. De Vera III. The UST delegation included the UST Rector Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., Ph.D., Office of the QS/THE Rankings Deputy Director Engr. Nestor Ong, OGEP Director Mr. Levine Lao, and REFI Stakeholders Engagement Head Mr. Cristian Naval.


This year’s summit focused on “Shifting Landscapes, Collaborative Solutions: Pioneering innovation in Asia Pacific higher education,” emphasizing universities’ pivotal role in shaping future work dynamics across the region. During the summit, selected Philippine Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs) were provided space within the Philippine Pavilion to highlight their programs and initiatives. Participants also engaged in panel discussions that fostered partnerships between academia and industry sectors. Exploring AI & Lifelong Learning was another highlighted feature during the summit where attendees learned strategies for leveraging AI technologies to enhance educational delivery while building lifelong learning ecosystems.


UST’s participation in the QS Higher Education Summit: Asia Pacific 2024 sought to enhance its collaboration with industry partners through several key outcomes: (1) by showcasing UST’s programs at the pavilion, the university increased visibility among potential partners, highlighting its strengths and capabilities for future collaborations; (2) by engaging in panel discussions and networking sessions, UST representatives were able to forge stronger ties with industry partners that could lead to enhanced internship opportunities or collaborative research initiatives for the University; and (3) by gathering insights from the sessions on leveraging AI and digital technologies, UST could integrate these tools into its educational offerings, enhancing its appeal as a partner for industries seeking tech-savvy graduates.
An interesting discussion during the summit addressed shifts in learner profiles due to changes in work patterns and global imperatives for upskilling/retraining. The role of new forms of credentials, playing critical roles post-secondary education, aligns well with UST’s goals on international reputation enhancement as the University strengthens global connections that drive academic excellence. All of these efforts are aligned with the QS rankings criteria emphasizing sustainability.


The Fr. Rector seeks to strategically position UST by addressing global trends while enhancing international collaboration and innovation. Key initiatives include fostering regional excellence, integrating sustainable practices into operations and academics, aligning with QS sustainability criteria, strengthening its academic reputation, and preparing students for future digital challenges—efforts that support innovation and internationalization through capacity-building.


In recent years, UST has consistently demonstrated its commitment to international collaboration and innovation in higher education. In 2023, UST, through Ong, joined a Philippine CHED delegation to the QS Higher Education Summit: Asia Pacific 2023. During the summit, Ong was recognized with a Certificate of Commendation from CHED iAS and a Certificate of Appreciation from QS’s Global Advisory Committee for his efforts during the summit.


In September, during Fr. Rector’s installation, he spoke of his six-point agenda which includes developing more partnerships and collaborations in government and industry sectors. He also emphasized that “it [UST] should also be one of the most innovative universities in this part of the world.†As such, UST’s presence in the summit reinforces this agenda as it strengthens its commitment to fostering global connections that drive academic excellence while contributing positively towards regional educational advancements. This also provides students with a learning environment that bridges education and employment effectively through strategic partnerships with industry sectors.


In the duration of the summit, the UST delegation, as represented by Ong, was given the opportunity to participate in a courtesy visit upon the Philippines Consulate General in Macau SAR China. While the Fr. Rector, together with Lao and Naval, had a meeting with international partners from Malaysia and attended the QS Stars Rating Masterclass.


The next QS Higher Education Summit will be hosted by Korea University in Seoul, South Korea from November 4 to 6, 2025. The summit will focus on “Advancing Generational Potential: Skills and Partnerships in the Asia Pacific.â€

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EdTech holds Tiger Tech Digital Expo /edtech-holds-tiger-tech-digital-expo/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=edtech-holds-tiger-tech-digital-expo Thu, 06 Mar 2025 01:03:29 +0000 /?p=192268 The ¾ÅÉ«, through its Educational Technology Center, held the Tiger Tech Digital Expo 2024 from November 20 to 22, 2024. This expo explored how customization and flexibility…

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The ¾ÅÉ«, through its Educational Technology Center, held the Tiger Tech Digital Expo 2024 from November 20 to 22, 2024. This expo explored how customization and flexibility can shape the future of learning in the digital world and highlighted the importance of these elements in creating a vibrant and adaptable learning environment, offering various sessions aimed at meeting the evolving needs of today’s students.


Throughout the event, various internal stakeholders learned about innovative digital tools and strategies designed to support different learning styles. The goal was to create a more engaging and fair educational landscape that caters to the unique requirements of all learners. Key features included presentations on the latest technologies and personalized learning approaches to inspire and empower everyone in the Thomasian community. These innovations aim to make sure that the use of technology in learning and work feels relevant and meaningful.


The expo served as a lively space for teachers, policymakers, technology experts, and students to discover advanced educational technologies that support personalized and independent learning. Attendees participated in sessions about how these new technologies can lead to custom learning experiences, making it easier for learners to take control of their education through UST’s existing subscriptions, such as Zoom Events, Coursera, Grammarly, Adobe Firefly, and Canvas. They also had the chance to explore various exhibition rooms that showcased the latest technology and personalized learning tools.


The keynote speech by Vice Rector for Academic Affairs Prof. Cheryl Peralta emphasized micro-learning and micro-credentialing and focused on the idea of continuous growth for both students and teachers, emphasizing a commitment to lifelong learning that encourages educators to bring fresh ideas and tools into their classrooms. Ms. Mona Magno-Veluz, known for her online presence as “@mightymagulangâ€, addressed the importance of providing quality information in an age dominated by social media. She explained the concept of “EDU-tainment,” which blends education with entertainment and challenges teachers to manage the bias on the use of TikTok, mitigate its risks, understand the appeal of short-form content, and imagine possibilities to create socially relevant content through innovation.


The expo provided a comprehensive glimpse into the future of learning, positioning UST as a leader in personalized digital education and offering the Thomasian community

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CTRSE researchers co-author article in Spanish book on Thomistic tradition /ctrse-researchers-co-author-article-in-spanish-book-on-thomistic-tradition/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ctrse-researchers-co-author-article-in-spanish-book-on-thomistic-tradition Thu, 06 Mar 2025 01:00:49 +0000 /?p=192242 A groundbreaking collection, recently released in Spain, titled “Tomismo Hispano: Ocho Siglos de Tradición Intelectual,†offers a comprehensive exploration of the rich tradition of Thomism in the Hispanic intellectual landscape.…

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A groundbreaking collection, recently released in Spain, titled “Tomismo Hispano: Ocho Siglos de Tradición Intelectual,†offers a comprehensive exploration of the rich tradition of Thomism in the Hispanic intellectual landscape. Published in 2024, this book celebrates eight centuries of philosophical and theological engagement with the teachings of St. Thomas Aquinas.

Highlighting its scholarly depth, the volume includes contributions from renowned academics and thinkers. Among those published is an article co-authored by CTRSE researchers Fr. Félix de los Reyes, O.P. and Levine Andro Lao, “Zeferino González: Inheritor of Salamantine Thomism in the Nineteenth Century”. Their study delves into the life and intellectual legacy of Cardinal Zeferino González, a Thomasian and a central figure in the transmission of Thomistic thought in 19th-century Spain. González played a pivotal role in preserving Thomism, particularly in Manila, a tradition passed down from the Escuela de Salamanca, with the University of Santo Tomás serving as a central institution in its perpetuation.

A living testament to the vitality and relevance of Thomism today, the book emerges from the IX Symposium of Thomistic Studies held in Barcelona in commemoration of the 800th anniversary of the canonization of St. Thomas Aquinas. The symposium was organized by leading institutions, including the Instituto Santo Tomás de Balmesiana and the Universitat Abat Oliba CEU. Scholars, students, and enthusiasts of philosophy and theology will find this book an invaluable resource for understanding the enduring influence of Thomistic thought in the Hispanic world.

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 Ong joins CHED delegation for international qualifications programme in Malaysia /ong-joins-ched-delegation-for-international-qualifications-programme-in-malaysia/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ong-joins-ched-delegation-for-international-qualifications-programme-in-malaysia Thu, 06 Mar 2025 01:00:00 +0000 /?p=192243 Asst. Prof. Nestor Rubio Ong, M.S.I.E., P.I.E., ASEAN Eng, representing the Philippine Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the ¾ÅÉ« (UST), recently participated in the Malaysian Qualifications…

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Asst. Prof. Nestor Rubio Ong, M.S.I.E., P.I.E., ASEAN Eng, representing the Philippine Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the ¾ÅÉ« (UST), recently participated in the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) Internship Programme 2024 in Putrajaya, Malaysia. The three-day program in September 2024 fostered the exchange of best practices and strengthened collaboration among quality assurance agencies and higher education institutions in Southeast Asia.

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Ong, who serves as a Deputy Director at the UST-Office of QS/THE Rankings and a member of the CHED-iNRC (National Review Committee on CHED Funded Internationalization Programs), was granted a scholarship to participate in this exclusive internship. The internship program aimed to foster potential partnerships and collaborations between Philippine and Malaysian universities, aligning with CHED’s goal of implementing Transnational Higher Education (TNHE) in the Philippines. This initiative resonates with UST’s commitment to global engagement and continuous improvement in educational standards.
During the internship, Ong engaged in high-level discussions on several impactful topics, including establishing collaborative frameworks for joint degree programs to enhance academic offerings and provide students with diverse educational experiences or international learning opportunities. Harmonizing quality assurance standards and accreditation processes was also a key focus, as it is crucial for ensuring that programs meet international benchmarks, fostering mutual trust and recognition between institutions.


Additionally, the development of capacity-building initiatives for TNHE partnerships can strengthen these collaborations by equipping institutions with the necessary skills and resources. Promoting cultural exchange programs was another key topic, as such exchanges enrich the educational experience and promote understanding among students from different backgrounds. Finally, exploring avenues for joint research projects/opportunities can lead to innovative solutions and advancements, benefiting both institutions and society at large.


Reflecting on his internship experience, Ong emphasized the program’s impact on shaping international education strategies. He stated, “This internship has provided invaluable insights into Malaysia’s approach to quality assurance in higher education. The knowledge and connections gained will significantly enhance the global competitiveness of Philippine higher education, including the ¾ÅÉ« and other institutions.”


A key highlight of the program was a meeting of Engr. Ong, Ms. Mabel A. Gutierrez the Officer-in-Charge of CHED International Affairs Service, and MQA officials responsible for internationalization. The meeting explored pathways for lecturer exchanges between the two countries, further strengthening bilateral educational ties and expanding collaboration opportunities.


The successful participation of Ong in the MQA Internship Programme 2024 marks a significant step towards implementing and advancing TNHE initiatives in the Philippines. It is expected to lead to enhanced quality assurance mechanisms, expanded international partnerships, and improved educational standards that align with global best practices.


There were 16 participants from various Southeast Asian countries, including Japan, Taiwan, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, who took part in the MQA Internship Programme. Together with the Commission on Higher Education, the participants represented institutions such as the National Institution for Academic Degrees and Quality Enhancement of Higher Education, Japan; the Higher Education Evaluation and Accreditation Council of Taiwan; Malaysian Medical Council; and Universitas Islam Bandung, Indonesia.


As the University continues to strengthen its position in the global education landscape, collaborations like these play a crucial role in shaping the future of higher education in the country. UST’s involvement, through Ong’s participation, reaffirms its commitment to upholding its tradition of excellence while embracing international cooperation and innovation in education.

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CRS academic staff, students present studies at OT congress in Japan /crs-academic-staff-students-present-studies-at-ot-congress-in-japan/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=crs-academic-staff-students-present-studies-at-ot-congress-in-japan Thu, 06 Mar 2025 00:55:23 +0000 /?p=192244 Several academic staff and students from the ¾ÅÉ« College of Rehabilitation Science (CRS) Department of Occupational Therapy presented their research at the 8th Asia Pacific Occupational Therapy…

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Several academic staff and students from the ¾ÅÉ« College of Rehabilitation Science (CRS) Department of Occupational Therapy presented their research at the 8th Asia Pacific Occupational Therapy Congress held from November 6 to 9, 2024 at the Sapporo Convention Center. The   congress explored the many facets of the sustainable practice of occupational therapy with this year’s conference theme, “Empowering Collaborative ¾ÅÉ«: Sustainable and Evidence-Based Occupational Therapy.â€

Assoc. Prof. Ivan Neil Gomez, Ph.D., presented his study titled, “Association between Occupational Balance and Mental Health among Undergraduate Occupational Therapy Students.†He also served as a chair in a series of oral presentations clustered under Health promotion. Gomez‘s research presentation explored the relationship between occupational balance and mental health among undergraduate occupational therapy students. It found that students with a well-balanced mix of activities—combining study, rest, and leisure—reported better mental health outcomes. His study highlighted that poor occupational balance may be associated with increased psychological distress, such as anxiety and depression. The findings underscore the importance of maintaining a structured yet flexible routine to support student well-being in educational settings.

Assoc. Prof. Kim Gerald Medallon, Ph.D., presented his study titled, “Determining the retirement preparedness of Quezon City-based middle-aged Filipino workers using the culturally adapted Retirement Resources Inventory.†Medallon’s research presentation focused on determining the preparedness of Quezon City-based middle-aged Filipino workers using the culturally adapted Retirement Resources Inventory. The findings of the study revealed that participants who were females, with higher levels of education, or with higher monthly family incomes had the highest emotional, cognitive, motivational, social, physical, and financial resources and, thus, were the best prepared. Meanwhile, preparedness levels based on age, civil status, and number of children varied for the different resource domains.

Asst. Prof. Paulin Grace Morato-Espino, M.A., participated in the poster presentation with her study, “A Peek into Young Filipino Children’s Happiness to Understand Their Well-being: A Focused Ethnographic Study.†Morato-Espino’s research explored how young Filipino children conceptualize well-being. Kindergarten to Grade 2 students enrolled in private and public schools from different areas in Luzon actively participated in the data collection and analysis. They drew images, took photographs,and discussed within small groups to answer the question, “What makes you happy?†Three general themes were identified, highlighting the importance of the family, the school, and play to children’s well-being.

Students Sandra Tan Pascual and Angelica Tricia Choy were part of a team that participated in the student poster presentation with their project, “Being a Super Duper Special Day Buddy: A Novel Opportunity to Prepare Occupational Therapy Students for Clinical Practice and Inter-institutional Interaction.†They conducted various activities together with Children with Disabilities (CWDs), ranging from song and dance to crafts; those with the parents of the CWDs conducted respite activities and peer support sessions. Overall, the project allowed them to engage meaningfully with people who have a range of special needs.

According the conference convenor Mr. Shinichi Yamamo, President of the Japanese Association of Occupational Therapists, the 8th Asia Pacific Occupational Therapy Congress (APOTC 2024) was successfully held with over 2,000 registrants from over 30 countries and regions.

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Honorary Professor Cordell lectures on scientific publications, provides insights on developing innovative programs for UST GenSan /honorary-professor-cordell-lectures-on-scientific-publications-provides-insights-on-developing-innovative-programs-for-ust-gensan/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=honorary-professor-cordell-lectures-on-scientific-publications-provides-insights-on-developing-innovative-programs-for-ust-gensan Thu, 06 Mar 2025 00:51:17 +0000 /?p=192246 The UST College of Science Department of Chemistry, in cooperation with the Research Center for the Natural and Applied Sciences and the Graduate School, recently organized the first Honorary Professor…

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The UST College of Science Department of Chemistry, in cooperation with the Research Center for the Natural and Applied Sciences and the Graduate School, recently organized the first Honorary Professor Lecture Series in line with the centennial of the College of Science with Professor Emeritus Dr. Geoffrey Cordell last December 4, 2024, at the Central Laboratory Auditorium.

The lecture, titled, “C.A.R.E.: Writing and Publishing Manuscripts and Beyond,†was attended by students of the B.Sc. Chemistry program, DOST-ASTHRDP scholars under various natural science programs of the UST Graduate School, and academic staff of the Department of Chemistry.


During the event, Cordell emphasized on the importance of properly communicating one’s scientific knowledge through publications in valid, peer-reviewed journals and how this is important in the development of capable scientists. Throughout his lecture, he used the acronym C.A.R.E. to highlight his key takeaways for the audience such as “Conduct Appropriate and Rigorous Experiment,†“Commit to Accurate Report as an Experimentalist,†“Critically Assessing Research Expenditures,†among others. These examples, as well as many other CARE acronyms he has developed, have been published in the journal Natural Products Communications in September 2021.


Prior to the lecture, Cordell met with Assistant to the Rector for UST General Santos Acad. Prof. Emeritus Maribel G. Nonato, Dean of the College of Science Prof. Rey Donne S. Papa, and Chair of the Department of Chemistry Assoc. Prof. Alan Rodelle M. Salcedo to discuss potential program offerings in UST. Cordell’s insights as an academic official of the University of Illinois and natural products researcher were instrumental as the department is preparing its program offerings for UST GenSan.


Cordell, who is an emeritus professor in the University of Illinois at Chicago and former Dean of its College of Pharmacy, is a long-time collaborator of several natural products chemists of the UST Department of Chemistry such as Prof. Emeritus Beatrice Q. Guevara, Acad. Prof. Emeritus Maribel G. Nonato and Prof. Ma. Alicia M. Aguinaldo. He was given the title Honorary Professor of Chemistry by the UST College of Science in 2017.

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Metagenomics expert from Australia delivers lecture for MedTech, Pharmacy students /metagenomics-expert-from-australia-delivers-lecture-for-medtech-pharmacy-students/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=metagenomics-expert-from-australia-delivers-lecture-for-medtech-pharmacy-students Thu, 06 Mar 2025 00:44:39 +0000 /?p=192245 Head of the Microbiology Laboratory and Lead for Antimicrobial Resistance at the University of South Australia (UniSA), Assoc. Prof. Henrietta Venter, Ph.D., FASM, delivered a discourse on “Beyond Culturing: Metagenomics…

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Head of the Microbiology Laboratory and Lead for Antimicrobial Resistance at the University of South Australia (UniSA), Assoc. Prof. Henrietta Venter, Ph.D., FASM, delivered a discourse on “Beyond Culturing: Metagenomics and Whole Genome Sequencing for Antimicrobial Resistance Detection and Discovery” on November 29, 2024, at the Thomas Aquinas Research Complex (TARC) in the ¾ÅÉ« (UST).


This event, sponsored by the Faculty of Pharmacy’s Department of Medical Technology, in collaboration with the Graduate School’s Medical Technology and Pharmacy clusters, highlighted the application of metagenomics and whole genome sequencing in combating antimicrobial resistance. The participants were officially welcomed by Dean of the UST Faculty of Pharmacy Prof. Aleth Therese L. Dacanay, Ph.D.
Venter’s presentation detailed the advantages of these methods over traditional culturing, explored their use in various settings, and showcased relevant research, such as identifying novel resistance genes and developing rapid diagnostic tools for detecting specific resistance mechanisms.


The discussion provided valuable insights into this advanced research, potentially inspiring future collaborative projects between UST and UniSA, and fostering further investigation into the application of these powerful techniques within the Philippines and beyond, ultimately contributing to more effective strategies in combating the global threat of antimicrobial resistance. The discourse itself is expected to significantly impact the field by disseminating knowledge of these advanced techniques to a wider audience of researchers and practitioners.


The UST Graduate School Dean Prof. Michael Anthony C. Vasco, Ph.D., delivered the closing remarks.

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CTHM co-hosts Cathay for Students Talk Series /cthm-co-hosts-cathay-for-students-talk-series/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=cthm-co-hosts-cathay-for-students-talk-series Wed, 05 Mar 2025 07:37:54 +0000 /?p=192197 Students from the ¾ÅÉ« College of Tourism and Hospitality Management (UST-CTHM), in partnership with Cathay Pacific organized, “Cathay for Students Talk Series: Reaching New Heights,†on December…

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Students from the ¾ÅÉ« College of Tourism and Hospitality Management (UST-CTHM), in partnership with Cathay Pacific organized, “Cathay for Students Talk Series: Reaching New Heights,†on December 3, 2024, at the UST Albertus Magnus Building Auditorium.


The event was geared towards providing students with transformative insights into the aviation and tourism industries, offering them the tools and inspiration to advance their careers. Bringing together tourism and hospitality students from various universities and colleges, the event fostered a day of meaningful dialogue and learning.
The Cathay for Students Talk Series featured an array of insightful sessions which included a showcase of Cathay Pacific services as one of the top airlines in the world; a deep dive into the tourism aspect of Hong Kong and its key role as a major travel hub in Asia; and a glimpse of student life in Hong Kong which emphasized the benefits of cultural exchange and global learning.

The learning session ended with CTHM Dean Atty. Gezzez Giezi G. Granado delivering an inspiring message to the students. He emphasized the importance of actively seeking out opportunities, such as the Cathay for Students Talk Series, which provide invaluable experiences that can significantly enhance one’s skills and knowledge. The Dean urged students to take full advantage of such opportunities to broaden their horizons and better prepare themselves for a future of success in the ever-evolving tourism industry.
The Cathay for Students Talk Series exemplifies the strong industry-academe collaboration that is one of the thrusts of the University. By exploring educational events like this, students gain insights that enable them to meet the challenges of an increasingly globalized world.

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