Bicol University

𝗨𝗡𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗜𝗧𝗬 𝗡𝗢𝗧𝗜𝗖𝗘 | 𝗔𝗣𝗥𝗜𝗟 𝟮𝟳, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲
Strict Enforcement of CMO No. 63, s. 2017

All College Student Affairs and Services Coordinators (CSASCs) are hereby strongly reminded to ensure the full and uncompromising enforcement of CMO No. 63, s. 2017 in all student-related undertakings.

This directive explicitly covers the conduct of:
• Research activities
• Extension work
• Community engagement initiatives, and among others.

All such activities must be carried out under strict supervision of the designated faculty-in-charge and with proper institutional authorization at all times.

Let it be clearly understood:
The University shall not be held liable for any student participation in private, personal, or external engagements conducted without prior approval and official consent from the University.

All CSASCs are expected to exercise heightened vigilance, accountability, and due diligence in monitoring compliance to safeguard student welfare and uphold institutional integrity.

Immediate and strict compliance is hereby enjoined.

Congratulations to Rommel M. Valenzuela and Danelene Rae Brutas, BUeños from the , for securing 1st and 3rd Place in the CBRC Teacher Education Quiz Bee – Regional Qualifying Round and the CBRC 3rd National Education Quiz Bee, respectively, held last April 23, 2026!

We take great pride in our BUeños' accomplishments and their embodiment of a true ISKOLAR ng BAYAN!

The Bicol University community is proud of you!

[ LOOK ] The Bikol Foundation for Higher Education (BFHE) held their 2nd Quarter Meeting at the Casa Lourdes Hall, Naga College Foundation, April 22, 2026.

BU President and BFHE President Dr. Baby Boy Benjamin D. Nebres III discussed key agenda items, including the presentation of the concept note for the 2026 BFHE Conference and General Assembly; updates on the status of SEC registration; publication of extended abstracts from the 2024 and 2025 RDE Symposia; and an advocacy paper supporting the COCOPEA call for “No Teachers to be Left Behind in Salary Reform,” among other matters.

The meeting gathered academic leaders and representatives from higher education institutions (HEIs) across the region. It also concluded with a simple send-off gathering in honor of Nielo M. Cantilado, SVD.

#

BU ADVISORY: ADOPTION OF ECONOMY AND ENERGY CONSERVATION MEASURES

In line with the issuance of National Budget Circular (NBC) No. 602 dated April 23, 2026, entitled "Adoption of Economy Measures in View of the Declaration of a State of National Energy Emergency Under Executive Order (EO) No. 110, s. 2026", all concerned offices and personnel are hereby directed to observe and implement the prescribed guidelines.

The Circular mandates adoption of cost-saving and energy-conservation measures across all government agencies, including state universities and colleges, to ensure judicious use of resources during the declared national energy emergency. Compliance with these measures is essential to support the government's efforts in addressing the current energy situation and to promote responsible stewardship of public funds by ensuring a 20% reduction in the MOOE as stated in the said NBC; hence, the reiteration of all previously released issuances that would support this initiative.

For reference and guidance, a copy of NBC No. 602 is attached to this memorandum. Immediate dissemination and strict compliance are expected.

SOURCE: Office Memorandum No. 113, series of 2026 (comment section)

BU, TRAC Forge Sisterhood in Landmark Virtual Meeting for “BU KUGOS TRAC” Sisterhood Program

In a decisive toward strengthening interregional academic sisterhood collaboration, Bicol University (BU) and Tawi-Tawi Regional Agricultural College (TRAC) convened today in a high-impact virtual meeting to launch the proposed “BU KUGOS TRAC” Sisterhood program an initiative envisioned as a transformative and collaborative partnership between the two state higher education institutions.

Leading the discussions were BU President Dr. Baby Boy Benjamin Nebres III and TRAC President Dr. Dayang Hadja Sitti Amina Jaafar Mohamad, alongside key school officials, program heads, and coordinators. The meeting underscored a shared commitment to inclusive development, knowledge exchange, and capacity-building tailored to the unique socio-cultural and agricultural landscape of Tawi-Tawi.

Framed as more than a conventional collaboration effort, BU KUGOS TRAC with “KUGOS” symbolizing unity and collective upliftment that aims to bridge geographic divides through collaborative programs in sustainable agriculture, community empowerment, research mentoring, high impact instruction, and culturally responsive education.

Dr. Nebres emphasized BU’s readiness to deploy its expertise and resources in co-developing programs that are both locally grounded and globally informed. “This partnership reflects our mission to extend the reach of education where it matters most through solidarity, respect, and shared growth,” he noted.

Echoing this vision, Dr. Mohamad highlighted the significance of the initiative for TRAC and the communities it serves. “This sisterhood is a powerful affirmation that no region is too distant when institutions come together with purpose. We are building pathways for our students and stakeholders to thrive,” she said.

The meeting concluded with a unified agreement to finalize program frameworks, establish joint technical working groups, and initiate pilot activities in the coming months. As both institutions move forward, BU KUGOS TRAC is poised to become a model of inter-island cooperation anchored in trust, cultural sensitivity, and a shared aspiration for sustainable progress.

The Bicol University Polangui Entrepreneurship Department marked a memorable evening of inspiration and celebration as University President Dr. Baby Boy Benjamin Nebres III graced its Department Night last evening.

In his message, Dr. Nebres emphasized the vital role of entrepreneurship in driving inclusive growth and innovation, urging students to become “creators of opportunities rather than seekers of them.” He highlighted the university’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial mindsets that respond to real-world challenges, particularly in local communities.

The event gathered students, faculty, and alumni in a vibrant showcase of talent, enterprise, and collaboration. Through performances, recognition of student entrepreneurs, and networking activities, the night underscored the department’s growing impact in shaping future business leaders.

Dr. Nebres’ presence elevated the occasion, reinforcing institutional support for entrepreneurship as a cornerstone of academic excellence and community development. The celebration concluded on a high note, leaving participants energized to pursue bold ideas and transformative ventures.



📷 R.Llandelar

The Bicol University College of Arts and Letters brought culture, color, and creativity to life in its striking showcase, KOLOR KÀN ORAGON: Lain-Lain na Kolor kan Init sa Kabikolan, an exhibition by the BA Communication Arts program celebrating the vibrant spirit of Bikolanos through photography at the Ayala Mall of Legazpi yesterday.

Gracing the event was University President Dr. Baby Boy Benjamin Nebres III, whose presence underscored the institution’s strong support for the arts as a powerful medium of storytelling and cultural preservation. In his remarks, he emphasized that visual narratives captured through the lens of young artists and serve as compelling reflections of identity, resilience, and regional pride.

The exhibit featured a dynamic collection of photographs portraying the intensity of color in everyday Bikolano life from sun-drenched landscapes and bustling streets to intimate human moments that reveal both struggle and triumph. Each frame stood as a testament to the creativity and critical eye of students, transforming ordinary scenes into extraordinary expressions of meaning.

More than an artistic display, the event became a celebration of heritage and perspective, highlighting how communication arts students translate lived experiences into evocative visual stories. With Dr. Nebres’ support, the exhibition reaffirmed Bicol University’s commitment to fostering artistic excellence while amplifying the diverse voices and colors of the Bikolano community.



📷R. Llandelar

BU OSAS-ISPSD Holds Virtual Consultation for Tulong Dunong Program Grantees

The Bicol University Office of Student Affairs and Services – Institutional Student Programs and Services Division (OSAS-ISPSD) successfully conducted a virtual orientation and consultation meeting for Tulong Dunong Program (TDP) grantees on April 17, 2026. The activity aimed to promote transparency in scholarship processes and provide essential updates on fund disbursement.

The session drew strong participation, with over 250 participants from various campuses, including BU Polangui, Gubat, Tabaco, Guinobatan, and the Daraga, Main, and East campuses. Key discussions covered the multi-level validation process for disbursement, status updates for Batches 3, 5.1, 6.1, and 9.1, and the university’s ongoing coordination with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

By addressing individual concerns—ranging from technical form errors to ATM account issues—the OSAS-ISPSD continues to strengthen communication and support for its scholars.

𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐘 𝐆𝐀𝐃-𝐈𝐍𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐄𝐃

The Bicol University Center for Gender & Development (CGAD) proudly introduces its 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗚𝗔𝗗 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗿—your accessible hub for resources, latest news and updates, and relevant GAD materials.

The Online GAD Corner includes information and updates on the following:
- GAD News
- BU GAD Focal Point System & Secretariat
- BU GAD Policies
- GAD Accomplishment Reports
- GAD Plan and Budget
- GAD Programs, Activities, and Projects
- Estado ni Juana 2025
- GAD Knowledge Management System
- GBSH/GBSV Reporting Mechanism
- And more!

Explore, learn, stay connected, and 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗚𝗔𝗗𝘃𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 as we continue to promote gender awareness and inclusivity in the BU community.

For easy access, scan the QR code on this poster—also available at the Physical GAD Corner located at the BU CGAD Office.

This initiative would not have been possible without the active support of the 𝗕𝗶𝗰𝗼𝗹 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲, to whom we extend our sincere appreciation.

Link to Online GAD Corner: https://bicol-u.edu.ph/bu-center-for-gender-and-development

[ 𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊 ] As of April 23, 2026, Bicol University has officially recorded a total of 355 Scopus-indexed publications since 2004. With 17 new documents already added in 2026 alone, the university continues to demonstrate its commitment to high-impact global research.

This steady climb in scholarly output reinforces our dedication to academic excellence and innovation. Congratulations to our hardworking faculty and researchers for pushing the boundaries of knowledge!

ℹ️ Dr. Erwin Torres
Source: Elsevier Scopus
ForHumanity