Written by Jessa Mae Bustillo (Graduate School)
The University of Baguio Graduate School held its General Assembly at the FGB Hall, University of Baguio. With about 170 participants, including some who joined online, the event celebrated the Graduate School’s strong sense of community, collaboration, and academic excellence, showcasing the dedication of both faculty and students in advancing their academic journey together.
The program began with Dr. Charesma Grace K. Lud-ayen, Dean of the School of Criminal Justice and Public Safety (SCJPS), who delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting as one academic community after years of virtual engagements.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Jojet Lamberto R. Mondares, psychologist and UB Graduate School alumnus (PhD Development Education), through his talk, “Paglalayag ng Graduate Student: A Bangka Framework for Work–Study–Life Balance.”
Dr. Mondares likened the graduate student journey to a sea voyage on a bangká, introducing a framework with seven essential parts: the hull (boundaries), sail (integration), outriggers (emotional balance), passengers (role prioritization), compass/stars (cultural anchors), fuel and supplies (resource stewardship), and oars (intentional life crafting). He encouraged students to reflect on whether their “boat” was steady, overloaded, or adrift, inspiring them to strengthen their balance to thrive academically and personally.
Complementing this were institutional updates crucial for graduate students:
- Dr. Donnavila Marie B. Panday-Herbster, RIECO Director and MPA Program Chair, discussed research policies and ethical standards.
- Dr. John V. Balanquit, Dean of the School of Business Administration and Accountancy (SBAA), presented graduate school policies to guide academic progress.
- Dr. Antonio D. Mangaliag, Dean of STELA, delivered the Synthesis, tying together the themes of flexibility, balance, and policy support.
The event included the introduction of faculty members, deans, and program chairs, strengthening student-faculty connections, followed by the Student Body reports and the election of new officers to ensure student representation in governance.
The General Assembly was made possible with the assistance of the Graduate School staff and the Student Body officers, led by Dr. Warren G. Moyao, SB Adviser and Program Chair for PhDCJSC and MSCJSC. The program was gracefully facilitated by Dr. Michelle P. Ranges, Program Chair of MA English, who served as emcee and ensured the event ran smoothly.
This General Assembly was more than just a return to in-person gatherings; it was a powerful reminder of the Graduate School’s dedication to holistic development—nurturing scholars who can balance the demands of work, study, and life while navigating their academic journey with purpose and resilience.
