THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE COLLEGE OF FORESTRY VOLUME 8. ISSUE 1 AUGUST - NOVEMBER 2023 BSU - CF Produces Topnotcher, Esquejo breaks 10-year lull Femima Balangan Magna Cum Laude graduate, Forester Mikaella Gabrielle Allas Esquejo landed top ten spot in the October 17-18, 2023 Professional Forester Licensure Examination with an outstanding overall rating of 89.95 percent, Esquejo along with 39 passers were informed about the results while she was attending the Regional Research Congress, presenting their thesis paper in Apayao. She shared that organized files including soft and hardcopy, and stock knowledge were helpful during her exam. "Unahin yung concept, parang sa undergraduate palang iniexplain mo na yung concept sa sarili mo kung nagets mo ba, hindi yung word per word yung alam mo, {at} importante 'yong stock knowledge talaga" she shared. Photo: CF Page Photo: Mikaela Gabrielle A. Esquejo She who shined: The Benguet State University - College of Forestry congratulates For. Mikaella Gabrielle Esquejo, the Magna Cum Laude S.Y 2022-2023 for being the top 10 in FLE Esquejo, now serve as Instructor I at BSU-CF, starting January 24,2024, teaching, 4 forestry subjects; Tropical Jelian Clydel B. Almesa "Gab top ka daw", a phrase forestry, Silviculture, The College of Forestry defining the fruit of her Enterprise and Forest proudly announces the hardwork. Genetics. outstanding performance of its graduates in the Forester Licensure Examination on October 17-18, 2023. Garnering an impressive 69.39% rating for first-timers and a commendable 54.79% for the Overall Passing Rate, the College celebrates the licensure of 40 new Forestry professionals. Among the accomplished individuals is Mr. Shallum Balangyao, former Vice President of the Future Foresters Society (FFS) and now an esteemed Instructor I at the College of Forestry, Photo: CF Page and Ms. Stephanie Suzanne Triumphant Achievement: The Benguet State University Valdez, former President of College of Forestry congratulates the 40 newly licensed Forester with impressive 69.39 % for first-timers. FFS. CF Hails 40 New Licensed Foresters Reflecting on his journey, Mr. Balangyao expressed, “When I am reviewing before the board exam, I am really expecting that at least half of what I have read will be included in the actual exam. I hoped and prayed that those knowledge would retain in my mind. During the exam, I never thought of anything, I just wanted to finish the exam with ease and without violating the rules that could invalidate my test paper. Expecting to pass it, as I believed that I did well in answering the questions. After the exam, the same with my friends and classmates we expected everyone to pass, we gave encouragement to each other. And after we passed continued on page 4...
SH NTOG NEWS (left) Sharing words of wisdom!...The CF Dean, For. Gerry M. Alfonso, PhD with the resource speakers For. Bernard Bawing, For. Frank Vincent D. Danglose and For. Rhenalyn Abiadew. (from left to right). (right) The Great and Successful alumnus of BSU- CF. Photo: Shontog Archives CF Holds 2nd Forestry Alumni Homecoming 2023 Jelian Clydel B. Almesa and Estefa Sibaen In line with the University's 107th Foundation Anniversary, the College of Forestry held the 2nd Forestry Alumni Homecoming 2023 with a theme, "Kwentuhan sa Kagubatan: Foresters' Symposium on Emerging Forestry Research and Technology," at the Benguet Pine Hall-College of Forestry on September 27, 2023, starting at 1:00 pm. Forester Bernard O. Bawing (Class 2011), the esteemed President of CS First Green Agri-Industrial Development Inc., set the tone with his resonant message: "Wala kami kung wala ang mga tatay namin… (We wouldn't be here without our fathers)" His enlightening talk delved into "NTFP: Bamboo Industry Technologies," showcasing the ecological significance of sustainable bamboo practices. Adding depth to the symphony of insights, Forester Frank Vincent D. Danglose (Class 1997), CENRO, and NGP Regional Coordinator for Region 1, orchestrated a discussion on "Forest Management: Panacea to Climate Change." He not only shared invaluable career tips but also emphasized the harmonious blend of collaboration and robust education for a prosperous future. His resounding advice echoed, “Kung magtrabaho na kayo, magtulungan na kayo... (If you work, you work together)” With a powerful crescendo, Forester Rhenalyn Abiadew (Class 2014), the spokesperson for Forester Marilyn L. Malecdan (Class 1981), CENRO, and NGP Regional Coordinator for CAR, unraveled the complexities of "E-National Greening Program: Perils and Dissonance." With an inspiring call to action, she declared, “Tayo lang din ang magtutulungan sa Academe… Researches, (We are also the only ones who will work together in Academe...researches)”,emphasizing the need for unity and research in nurturing our shared environment. This symphony of wisdom and shared experiences not only celebrated the rich legacy of the College of Forestry but also resonated with a commitment to environmental stewardship and collaborative growth. The CF Dean, For. Gerry M. Alfonso, PHD, sharing his welcoming remarks. Photo: Shontog Archives Post-pandemic Convocation Held After Years of Challenges Arnie Marrie S. Carpio The College of Forestry (CF) of Benguet State University welcomed 136 Bachelor of Science in Forestry (BSF) freshmen on August 16, 2023 at the Benguet Pine Hall, CF. During the event, For. Josel M. Alfonso introduced the different CF staff. Dr. Gerry M. Alfonso, dean of the college, highlighted various opportunities awaiting the students in a Level IV Accredited Program. On the other hand, For. Nova D. Doyog provided an overview of the College's History, Goals, and Logo, along with the objectives of the BSF program. Meanwhile, For. Milbrenne D. Yabes expounded the BSF Curriculum and admission and retention policies ensuring the students are well informed. Furthermore, the Future Foresters’ Society and Shontog officers displayed their talents in their presentations. The two student organizations within the college, outlined their respective goals and planned activities for the semester. For. Sano Ngiwas concluded the program by assuring the new students that they would enjoy their time at the college and the university. Special thanks were extended to Ms. Maricel Tay-og and Mr. Freniel Budas, both fourth-year students, for their musical performance, as well as the FFS officers for their valuable assistance in organizing the event. CF Freshmen intently listening to the CF professors’ lectures. Photo: Shontog Archives Forestry Enrolment Surges for A.Y 2023-2024 Laarnie L. Luis A notable surge in enrollment is witnessed in Academic Year 20232024 with a total of 399 students signed up for first semester Bachelor of Science in Forestry, broken down as follows, 136 freshmen, 245 continuing, and 18 Master’s Degree Program (MS) students. This surge marks a considerable increase compared to the AY 2021- 2022 with 320 undergraduates and 16 MS for the first semester and 309 undergraduates and 21 MS for the second semester in AY 2021-2022 Earlier, the University announced that the mode of classes will be face-to-face. The CF offers a variety of courses such as watershed management, geospatial science, dendrology, surveying etc.
SH NTOG NEWS CF Students Join 3rd Quarter Balili Clean-up Drive Jelian Clydel B. Almesa BSU - College of Forestry joined the 3rd quarter Balili Clean-up Drive in La Trinidad Municipality. The event unfolded on September 15, 2023, from 7:00 am to 12:00 pm, drawing in a robust assembly of 270 participants, each passionately contributing to the enhancement of environmental well-being and the safeguarding of the Balili River. Guided by Forester Arthur A. Pedro, the Designated Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer (MENRO), volunteers from 25 different barangays and organizations, including the forestry students, gathered at the Municipal Gym, km.5, La Trinidad, Benguet for orientation. "Protection of water is our mandate," and stressing that their efforts were an investment in the future for the sake of the children. Ms. Regina Elizabeth L. Mamag, the LTB Provincial Director of the Department of Interior and Local Government, expressed solidarity with the initiative, pledging support for environmental preservation. "We would like to join you in whatever we can do so that the environment would look really good and makalanghap tayo iti mayat nga angin (for us to breathe fresh air)," she stated, emphasizing the importance of collective action. Following the orientation, the 270 volunteers were strategically assigned to nine different stations along the Balili River, spanning Bell Clean as One. MENRO, volunteers from 25 different barangays and organizations, including the forestry students, assembled at the Municipal Gym, km.5, La Trinidad, Benguet for orientation. Photo: Shontog Archives Church, Stobosa, Mamaga, Central Balili, Tabangaoen, Als Bridge, Bolo Creek, and 1st Bridge Pico. Forestry students, divided into two groups, played pivotal roles in the Tabangaoen and Pinespark stations. "The concluded 3rd quarter Balili Clean-up Drive allowed us, forestry students, to appreciate the value of the environment and that collective action from everyone matters," remarked FFS President, Ms. Willyn D. Docogan, a 4th-year CF student, reflecting on the profound impact of the activity. SHONTOG Scribes Attend Intercollegiate Conference Cup 2023 Bags 2 Golds Jelian Clydel B. Almesa SHONTOG, the official publication of the College of Forestry, fielded its participants on the Intercollegiate Invitational Press Conference Cup 2023, held at Chrysanthemum Hall, College of Publication Administration and Governance (CPAG) from October 26-27 with the theme, "Naming the narratives of marginalized youth in the border blues of the digital present." Distinguished talents from SHONTOG, Mr. Joshua Bucasan, a senior cartoonist, and Ms. Jannesse Pacio, a senior photojournalist, brought home first-place awards in the editorial cartooning and photojournalism, respectively, both in the English category. Their exemplary work showcased their artistic prowess and commitment to capturing the essence of contemporary issues. Meanwhile, Mr. Clifton Alsaen, a staff writer for SHONTOG, secured the fifth position in sports writing in the Filipino category, demonstrating the publication's versatility across different languages and genres. Shontog members along with the Mountain Collegian staffs. Photo: Shontog Archives Notably, other staff writers of SHONTOG also participated in various categories at the event. Ms. Jelian Clydel Almesa and Ms. Christy Sumali showcased their skills in development communication and writing editorial in English, respectively. Ms. Maricel Tay-og and Ms. Laarnie Luis engaged in sports writing (English) and spoken poetry (English), while Ms. Femima Balangan and Ms. Frances Burgos demonstrated their expertise in feature writing (Filipino) and editorial cartooning (Filipino), respectively. The collective efforts of the SHONTOG team underscored the publication's commitment to excellence and its ability to excel across a diverse range of journalistic and creative disciplines. Ms. Laanie Luis (left side), Ms. Arnie Marie Carpio (middle part) and Mr. Joshua Bucasan (right side) during Global Entrepreneurship Week 2023. Photo by Shontog ArchivesBezzie Ann N. Baniaga KATNAY FASHION BOUTIQUE Shines in Business Pitching Competition during Global Entrepreneurship Week 2023 Bezzie Baniaga The College of Forestry Katnay Fashion Boutique emerged as the first runner up in the business pithing competition. The event, held on November 17, 2023, was part of the Global Entrepreneurship Week 2023 celebrations, organized by the College of Home Economics and Technology in collaboration with Global Entrepreneurship Philippines. The Katnay Fashion Boutique, representing the College of Forestry, participated in the Business Pitching competition with the enthusiastic support and encouragement of Ma'am Jonalyn P. Dagupen, a Instructor in College of Forestry. Led by Mr. Joshua Bucasan and Ms. Laarnie Luis, the team presented an innovative and sustainable business that emphasized the use of ecofriendly materials and ethical production practices. The Katnay Fashion Boutique's achievement in the business pitching competition serves as a testament that there are talent, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit fostered nurtured within the College of Forestry. It does not only showcases their ability to think outside the box but also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in driving innovation. continued on page 9...
NEWS / EDITORIAL SH NTOG SHONTOG EDITORIAL BOARD Editor in Chief: Associate Editor in Chief: Finance Manager: Layout Artists: Staff Writers: Cartoonists: Photo-Journalist: Contributor: Adviser: ALMESA, JELIAN CLYDEL B. BANIAGA, BEZZIE SIBAEN, ESTEFA TIBANGAY, RICO JR SUMALI, CHRISTY ESPADA, JUN RAYNE D. AGPAO, ZATCHIKU LUIS, LAARNIE L. CARPIO, ARNIE MARIE BALANGAN, FEMIMA OMAKING, MARIEL SITENG, RIZALOU DOCAYAG, ANGELICA MARAFO, MARINELLA ALSAEN, CLIFTON RACUYA, KERSTINE TAY-OG, MARICEL BUCASAN, JOSHUA BURGOS, FRANCES MARI M. MANGLICMOT, JAMAIGNE JANNESSE C. PACIO PEDLING, JOEL CARL ALMOITE, CLARENCE GIO FOR. JOSEL M. FLORENTIN Footprints through Happy Soul Mariel Omaking The College of Forestry (CF) actively, in celebrating Benguet State University (BSU) 10th Foundation Anniversary, participated in various activities organized by the university at the BSU gymnasium from September 25 to 29, 2023. The celebration CF Hails...from page1 the board, we just hoped and prayed that the license can provide us the career path we want to take.” Offering valuable advice to current and future students of the College of Forestry, Mr. Balangyao recommends, “As a passer, I would recommend/suggest that as you start the degree from first year, make sure to take your lessons and classes seriously, it would make you take the exam easier if you really understood it from your classes. For graduating students, it is good to start reading materials as early as now, and do it continuously so that the knowledge will become long-term in your mind. Also, pray to God before, during, and after the exam that he will help you. Lastly, make sure to have a goal that can encourage you to do your best and to do it without regret.” Ms. Stephanie Suzanne Valdez also shared her thoughts on the revolved around the theme 'Beaming with Pride, Surmounting Engagements and Excellence, Unfolding Medical Futures Today and Beyond.' This theme symbolized the university's commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and the pursuit of a pre-exam anxiety, stating, “Before the FLE board exam, we are anxious due to uncertainty about the questions. However, upon receiving the questionnaire, we are relieved as we discovered that the majority were from past board exams. This boosted our confidence, making us believe we could successfully pass the FLE.” Ms. Valdez imparts valuable insights to fellow forestry students, emphasizing the importance of consistent reading and focusing on past exam reviewers, as many questions are recycled. She also highlights the effectiveness of group reviews, noting that questions encountered in group sessions often reappear in the actual exam. Her final words of encouragement are to maintain faith, pray, and believe in one's ability to excel and pass the board examination. She said, “For forestry students, especially those graduating Photo source: The Mountain Collegian brighter future." The College of Forestry (CF) wholeheartedly embraced the spirit of celebration during Benguet State University's (BSU) 10th Foundation Anniversary. During the celebration, they actively participated in the OSShayao event, which aimed to recognize outstanding ndividuals and achievements within the university community. Dr. Rocinto Ian C. Lumbress, a prominent figure in the field of forestry, was honored with the prestigious Outstanding Thesis Adviser award and received a special citation for his exceptional mentorship. guidance and , success in the board exam lies in consistent reading, focusing on past exam reviewers as many questions are recycled. Also, group review experience proved to be helpful since most of the questions that we encountered during our group review reappeared in the actual exam. Lastly, maintain faith , pray, and believe in your ability to excel and pass the board examination.” The College of Forestry celebrates not just the academic accomplish- ments but also the spirit of camaraderie and support that propels its graduates toward success in the field of forestry. The College of Forestry faculty, staff, and students, on the other hand, dazzled the audience with their extraordinary moves and talents during the slicing of BSU everlasting cake and variety show. The performances showcased the immense creativity and dedication of the College of Forestry community. The BSU 10th Foundation Anniversary left a profound mark on our hearts and souls, leaving behind footprints that will remind us of our rich history.
SH NTOG OPINION Empowering the Leaders of Today: The Synergies of Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) in the Philippines and the Sustainable Development Agenda Clarence Gio Almoite In the Philippine context, youth leadership has experienced a notable advancement with the establishment of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), a youth council entrusted with the representation of the voices and aspirations of young constituents at the grassroots level, particularly within the Barangay. This undertaking has not only fostered the empowerment of young leaders but has also underscored the inherent synergy between youth leadership and the Sustainable Development Agenda. The Sustainable Development Agenda, delineated by the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), is committed to addressing the most pressing global challenges, encompassing issues ranging from poverty and inequality to climate change and environmental sustainability. In the Philippines, the contribution of the Sangguniang Kabataan to the attainment of these goals assumes an unmistakable significance. Foremost among the pivotal roles of the SK in advancing the Sustainable Development Agenda is its role in empowering the youth. By providing young leaders a platform for proactive involvement in local governance, the SK not only encourages civic participation but also facilitates the cultivation of critical competencies and leadership attributes that are indispensable for instigating transformative change. Through these experiential opportunities, youthful leaders acquire a profound comprehension of the challenges afflicting their communities and emerge as advocates for change. The SDGs are explicitly oriented towards the principles of inclusivity and equity, with a commitment to 'leaving no one behind.' Within the Philippines, the SK assumes an essential function in championing these principles. Acting as representatives of the youth within the Barangay, SK leaders are well-placed to champion policies and initiatives that endorse gender parity, universal access to education, and societal inclusion. They stand as vocal advocates for the rights of marginalized youth, ensuring that no individual within their community remains marginalized in the pursuit of sustainable development. Present-day environmental challenges represent a key aspect of the Sustainable Development Agenda. Youth, characterized by their energy and capacity for innovative thinking, are ideally positioned to engender environmental stewardship. Leaders within the SK can spearhead local initiatives aimed at addressing pertinent concerns such as waste management, reforestation, and the adoption of renewable energy solutions. In these endeavors, they make tangible contributions to the enhancement of the local environment and the broader global campaign against climate change. Youth leaders operating under the aegis of the SK possess the potential to galvanize innovation and collaboration within their communities. They are capable of orchestrating programs designed to stimulate entrepreneurship, foster the adoption of technology, and facilitate knowledge dissemination among their peers. Through the cultivation of an innovation-centric culture, they play a pivotal role in stimulating economic growth, a fundamental component of sustainable development. Sangguniang Kabataan represents a significant opportunity for the alignment of youth leadership with the imperatives of the Sustainable Development Agenda. These young leaders are not mere predictors of the future; they occupy a distinct and influential role in the present. Through their active involvement in local governance, their advocacy for inclusivity and equity, their commitment to environmental stewardship, and their facilitation of innovation and collaboration, they make substantive contributions to the actualization of the SDGs. As these young leaders engage with their communities and drive transformative change, they serve as living examples of the profound synergy that exists between youth leadership and the cause of sustainable development. In the Philippines and on the global stage, the empowerment of youth through instrumental mechanisms like the SK represents a formidable stride towards a future characterized by sustainability and equitability. Unwavering Unity Jelian Clydel B. Almesa Like the resilient trees weathering the fiercest storms, student leaders stand united, shielding the campus community with their unwavering unity, a fortress of support amid turbulent times. Just as branches intertwine to form a sturdy and resilient structure in a tree, the officers must work together, support, and rely on each other to achieve common goals. Like the branches of a tree, they need to collaborate to fulfill their roles and responsibilities, complementing each other's strengths and providing support where needed. Being a student leader is not just about holding titles but it is about commitment and cooperation. Every officer bears the weight of their obligations, from every task and activity, and must work in tandem with their co-officers to achieve collective goals. When there is unity among the leaders, tasks will be done efficiently, conflicts will be resolved, and the organization will thrive. The strength of a student organization depends on the unity and dedication of its leaders. Just as trees stand firm in the forest, they serve as pillars of strength to provide a safe haven for all students. Their collective efforts remind us that unity is our greatest strength that will guide us through unpredictable challenges.
LITERARY SH NTOG Forestry Bezzie Ann N. Baniaga Maricel C. Tay-og Where does the soul rest when this world has wrecked too much havoc? Who’s there to call upon, when everything’s just so heavy? Who can turn back a once happy soul from the monster he became? Why does the world so ruthless in incapacitating the potential of every individual? All the heartfelt sorries now turned to meaningless words The laughters and giggles filled with emotions now delivers a void The sincere worries, unfeigned passion The heart-warming conversations, the peaceful nights Went from a life that used to feel like a vibrant movie To a black and white clip taken from centuries ago Paths taken with passion Trials dealt with cleverness Unprecedented feelings out of interactions Faces that were painted with bright smiles A heart that is ready to heal another Where are they now? Where is the love? What about hope? The joy? The peace? The freedom? Where did they all went Everyone’s hurting; Let us not take our pain to others Look at how broken everybody is Heal, Let’s heal one another Violence, murderous intentions Wrecked havocs that brought chaos to the mind Since when did humanity became so rogue? The desire to destroy escalates Slowly corrupts the eunoia Darling, You’ve lost so much interest You’ve been through highs and lows You’ve been through states of alamort, yet the hope you offered lingers You’ve witnessed enigmatic events and it made you even stronger You haven’t healed but you offered help You haven’t forgotten your pain yet you pacified yourself You’ve been through series of trauma yet you assembled yourself You’ve been abandoned yet you put up a fight You’ve faced every battle life has put you through You’ve been through fragments of violence yet you supplemented assurance for others Even when the world and humanity sucks You have somehow proved your worth!, you have given hope and faith to humanity Again, please live and make life a vibrant movie as it was before Please don’t let a happy soul say, “once again I’m disappointed in humanity” In the realm of knowledge, where trees of wisdom grow, There lies a course, where forestry's secrets flow. A journey of learning, in the forest's embrace, The forestry course, a path to embrace. With eager minds, we step into the woods, Guided by professors, who understand the goods. They unveil the wonders of each leaf and tree, Teaching us the language of nature, wild and free. From dendrology to forest ecology, We delve into the depths of forestry's philosophy. Learning to identify species, both near and far, Understanding the intricate web of life, like a shining star. In the classroom, we study the science behind, The growth of forests, a treasure we find. We explore the impact of climate and fire, And the importance of conservation, never to tire. The forestry course, a gateway to a world so vast, Where we become stewards, ensuring forests last. With knowledge and passion, we take up the call, To protect and preserve, for one and all. So let us embrace this forestry course with pride, A journey of discovery, where our dreams collide. For in the realm of forestry, a future lies in store, Where trees and knowledge intertwine forevermore.
LITERARY SH NTOG Raging Battle Maricel T. Tay-og A world where violence can’t be silenced An environment that doesn’t supply self-nourishment A home filled with dry tears and loneliness A soul filled with absolute unknown Who’s going to survive? When everything seemed to be a battle needing an immediate attention As the chaos not only did penetrate in the society But it’s unprecedented chaos that requires the functionality of emotions And a maneuver to fight The people, differences, perspectives, ideations, everything varies In order to survive; firstly, adapt!! For the very indomitable weapon is to get a fixated mindset And the battle needs to be to be done within the mind Fight for the peace you deserved, as well as the freedom you needed Fight for the joy you wished for, as well as the respect you longed for Bring back the smile lines drawn in your face, As well as the as the wrinkles painted in your eyes as you laugh hard You are a masterpiece! A supreme kind in a play that is valued to win the game For you offered too much tears, sweat and effort So win!, win until you see the symptoms of victory Fight for what you’ve been dreaming of Win the rules of life and it’s your job to keep it that way Ang Malusog Na Bayan Christy C. Sumali Kay gandang pagmasdan ng nagkakaisang bayan Tungo sa pagbabago at maunlad na kabuhayan Makabagong teknolohiya ay pinapakinabangan, Mabuting edukasyon ang siyang puhunan. Pagiging masipag at matiyaga sa hanapbuhay Aktibo, alerto, produktibo na siyang taglay Katalinuhan, kasanayan, kaalaman, at kakayahan Mga katangiang kailangan ng bawat mamamayan. Masinop at marunong mangalaga ng likas na yaman Upang mga susunod na henerasyon ay makinabang Hindo mag aaksaya at magnanakaw sa sariling bayan Upang ang ating lahi ay mapagyaman. Maging maalaga tayo sa ating kapaligiran Upang sakit ay maiwasan, Walang salot sa lipunan ay ating kalimutan Yan ang malusog na Pilipinas na aking bayan.
SH NTOG FEATURES She Who Shines Femima Balangan Incredible! A topnotcher after 10 years. Calm as the forest, and like a river she goes with the flow, simple, bright and compassionate. Forester Mikaella Gabrielle Allas Esquejo, 22 years of age, the second child of Mr. Noel V. Esquejo and Mrs. Airen B. Esquejo from Tayug Pangasinan, recently graduated from college and gained recognition after reserving one of the seats on the top list of examinees last October, along with 39 passers. Growing up, she never dreamed of any profession she wants, in her Grade school years she studied at Tayug Elementary School, where she graduated as top 8 among her batch, then in High school she she studied at Pangasinan State University Urdaneta City Campus where she also finished, with flying colors. In her pursuit as a student, she took exams on three Universities, two represent Agriculture program and one BSF program, namely; Central Luzon State University(CLSU), UP, and Benguet State University(BSU), where she passed all the entrance examinations. Inspired by her teacher in Grade 10, she thought of Agriculture, since the Philippines also practices agriculture, which later on she and her parents agreed on, to study BSABE at CLSU. Unpredicted, her plan altered, swayed by her friends who enrolled Nursing at BSU, she took the courage and discovered BSF program under DOST scholarship priority list, which she finds unique, "marami ng kumukuha ng Agriculture, kaya doon ako sa road less taken, kaya nag forestry ako" she said. On her journey as a freshman, she faced trials, hindering her to reach the dream she started. Due to her weak lungs, she ON TOP: Forester Mikaella Gabrielle A. Esquejo in her emotional speech during the Acquaintance party held at the College of Forestry-Benguet State University. Photo by Joel Pedling easily gets tired during fieldwork which includes other related activities, "matatakutin ako, iyakin, tas madaling magulat lalo na sa mga lumilipad" she explained with her sweet voice. One of her moments was when Dr. Tacloy announced the top of the class during exam which, she was first, leads to people fix their eyes on her. The pressure she felt during her college years made her to further excel, this also made her realize she can do more than whatshe can, "Hindi kasi ako yung palaging/super top sa klase kasi lulubog lilitaw ako sa honor list, kaya hindi ako sanay na ganon, parang kung ano lang kaya ko, naging pressure yon na palaging mag top dahil kay Dr Tacloy", she expounded. Dr Tacloy, is a retired teacher who was their instructor under Introduction to Forestry. Despites her situation, full of perseverance, and the urge to achieve her goal, she enjoyed doing fieldworks. Which was victoriously followed by a certificate and medal in the month of July 2023, Magna Cum Laude. Recollecting her experience before the board exam on March, she represented the University at the National Forestry Quiz Con along with her coaches, Sir Gerryc, Ma'am Milbrenne and Ma'am Renchel who accompanied her and studied for 6 weeks. She was so pressed down due to pressure. This made her think that if this goes on she would not be able to take in good results from the upcoming exam. Side by side, storms came and struck her, making her cry every night as she prepares for exam. In order to feel less pressure, she found a diversion. She applied at Baguio Ten studio's. Where she was a part timer, and took the board exam on October 17-18, after which, Forester Esquejo traveled to Apayao along with her friends and research companion Forester Suzanne and Forester Keliah to present their thesis paper in Regional which landed second place, "masyadong masaya, kaso disappointed kami kasi goal namin mag first, pero at least naka place parin" she said disappointingly. Agony came as she awaits the results. Then, it was out. Her friend informed her, "Gab top ka daw", tears fell as she processed the moment, after all, it was worth it. When asked about her life quote she said she never had one, "parang wala" she stated in a prolonged questioning way, yet, gave an advise with regards to students who are to take the board exam next year. "Unahin yung concept, parang sa undergraduate palang iniexplain mo na yung concept sa sarili mo kung nagets mo ba, hindi yung word per word yung alam mo, tas importante yung stock knowledge talaga" she answered. It is also good that even before exam, files of both soft and hardcopy are organized, "hindi sa review nag-aayos" she further advised. Spilling all the burden she carries, the cheerful exchange of information did not seem to end, not after, the shaking of hands and her saying goodbye.
FEATURES SH NTOG Muscle of Mind Femima Balangan Dr. Roscinto Lumbres, resource speaker and facilitator during a Workshop on Basic GIS for Mapping and Risk Assessment at Aspulan Hall, ATI-RTC-CAR BSU, Cmpd. Photo Source: Center for Geoinformatics-BSU He who walks in the corridor with composure as he enters the room, wearing commonly a t-shirt topped with university/jersey jacket paired with jeans and flat or rubber shoes. He who puts on a straight face, however, loads his students with knowledge and a little bit of humor, and is one of the tall, "kayumanggi" and handsome professors of College of Forestry. Dr. Roscinto C. Lumbres, a licensed Forester and Environmental planner, the designated Director of Center for Geoinformatics, born in the "1980isssssh" as he pronounced, who hails from Calamba Laguna and whose father is from Tanauan "Tanawan" Batangas and mother from Poblacion Calamba, receives yet another award. Dr. Roscinto was awarded as the Outstanding Young Scientist last year 2022, this year, he was awarded in the Individual Category CSC-CAR with Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award. He stood happily as I approached him for the interview, with a loud voice he said, jokingly, "Maglalagay pa ba ng makeup?", While he made his way to another table crowded with papers and where there are chairs for two. In a city known as the "Spring Resort Capital of the Philippines" and the hometown of the de facto Philippine National Hero, Jose Rizal, is where Dr. Roscinto spent his years exploring the core of his purpose at a Catholic school in Canossa Academy (Elementary) and Rizal Institute Don Bosco (High School), where he later on graduated. Dreaming, his mind wandered on how numbers would apply in the real world, this captivated him to grasp the opportunity in UPLB, "I really love math, long time ago pa, so, gusto ko sana ipursue ang Accountancy or Engineering", he said cheerfully, "how to use those numbers in real application, pero hindi pinalad kaya ginawa kong stepping stone ang BSF program para makapasok sa UPLB", he explained. Taking another step as a freshman of Forestry, his love for numbers lead him to build a muscled mind in UPLB as an undergraduate student, completing seven semesters, at the same time passing the board exam. Onto his next journey, he was like a candle, ignited by a flame. In the summer of 2006, the gust of the wind changes it's course, carrying him to the mountains away from his hometown and landed at a place where fruit and vegetable crops are bountiful, specifically, Strawberries. There, he stayed at Benguet State University and aimed of becoming a permanent teacher and since it is closer, he gathered the courage and pursued his Masters major in Urban Environmental Management that same year, then, marched happily in the eleventh month of the year. Consuming a year trade of peace, he enjoyed the heat of the sun and the cool breeze of winter, preparing himself to battle. In the year 2010, he flew to a place of tranquil scenery, "The land of morning calm", where it's known for its globally influential pop culture, particularly k-pop and fascinating dramas. His intent of finishing his doctorate degree in Forest Resources at Kongju University triumphed in 2013, and that same year he went back home to unwind. Flourishing, he got himself a ticket back to South Korea for his Post-doctoral, ending with cap, tassel, and a ceremony. In his pursuit, opportunities was unlocked in Korea, however, he chose to pack his luggage to repay the kindness of the University (BSU) for supporting his studies, through scholarship. The past decade made him bright and promising, it was also those times when storms came and he felt homesick, however, he was encouraged by people who cared, "actually the main man to encourage me to pursue graduate studies and research was our former University President, Dr. Feliciano G. Calora Jr., then nandyan si Dr. Marissa Parao, and Kenneth Laruan, sila yung mga mentors ko dito sa BSU'', he mentioned.Dr. Lumbres who has worked hard gained lots of awards and recognition, producing piles of papers on his table, before pandemic he started developing the former GIS Lab, now, recognized as Center for Geoinformatics, for gaining a seat. The key was also entrusted to him for the World Ranking in the University, specifically the SDG (Sustainable Development Goals) and WURI (World University with Real Innovation) ranking 38th in Industrial Revolution and 238th in World Ranking, currently Center for Geoinformatics won Best Organization with the aid of his team who were also foresters. Dr. Roscinto, a man who was once carrying a pen and a paper full of perseverance, is now molded and polished with such a great experience, thrives in forestry. When asked about his career as "manggugubat" and with regards to students who used Forestry program as their stepping stone, he responded "Hindi mo kailangang mahalin lahat ng Forestry courses, maghanap ka lang ng pinakagusto mo na reason to stay, for my case that's Geographic Information System, Forest Biometry, Surveying and Management", he commented while staring at one of his team who was once in the same shoes, "try to open your eyes, your mind, kung sa tingin mo dimo siya mahal, baka nga, it's better for you to change the program, he enunciated. Clothed with simplicity, his life quote is the same "DO WHAT YOU LOVE", interrogation with his love life was inserted, making his team in the lab chuckle and gossip, changing the peaceful atmosphere, "isusulat mo ba yon sa Shontog?", he asked in a stifled laugh, "siguro sa accomplishment nalang" he added, leaving a lively ambiance as he stood and went back to his space, facing his computer and paperworks. The mood went back to normal as the door locks.
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