The Harrow-RSU Official Student Publication

PUB UPDATE | The Harrow introduces its new Editorial Board for Academic Year 2026–2027

Following the screening and deliberation process conducted on May 28, which included interviews, portfolio reviews, and a written examination to evaluate applicants' journalistic skills, leadership potential, publication experience, analytical abilities, and knowledge of the organization's Constitution and By-Laws, The Harrow formally introduces its newly appointed Editorial Board for Academic Year 2026–2027.

The screening process was facilitated by SDSO Director Engr. Kenreid Nuel F. Dela Vega, Publication Adviser Mrs. Maria Josefa O. Punongbayan, and outgoing Editor-in-Chief Justine S. Machon.

Upon the completion of the evaluation and deliberation process, the following individuals were selected to serve as members of the Editorial Board for Academic Year 2026–2027:

• Alaisa Mae Reloj – Editor-in-Chief, former Internal Managing Editor
• Rheana Guirindola – Associate Editor-in-Chief, former and current Associate Editor
• Mardy Visca – External Managing Editor, former Broadcaster and Asst. External Managing Editor
• Ada Fetalvero – Internal Managing Editor, former Cartoonist and Asst. Internal Managing Editor
• Eden Gercan – Opinion Editor, former Opinion Writer
• Annesty Dela Torre – Head Cartoonist, former and current Head Cartoonist
• Jerick Mayor – Circulation Manager, former Opinion Writer and Asst. Circulation Manager
• Edlyn Zuela – Media Manager, former Broadcaster and Asst. Media Manager

The newly appointed Editorial Board is entrusted with the responsibility of leading the publication in the pursuit of responsible journalism, editorial excellence, and meaningful service to the student body. As stewards of the institution's official student publication, they are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and press freedom throughout their term of office.

For the freedom of the press.

// words and layout by JM

CAMPUS NEWS| RSU holds 50th Commencement Exercises for Class of 2026

Romblon State University successfully conducted its 50th Commencement Exercises on June 4–5 at the University Quadrangle, celebrating the achievements of the graduating Class of 2026 from various academic colleges and programs.

The two-day commencement celebration honored graduates from the Graduate Education and Professional Studies (GEPS), College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), College of Business and Accountancy (CBA), College of Engineering and Technology (CET), College of Computing, Multimedia Arts and Digital Innovation (CCMADI), College of Education (CED), and College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Environmental Sciences (CAFES).

The event commenced with a Thanksgiving Service and Baccalaureate Ceremony officiated by Rev. Fr. Errol Fonte. Following the religious rites, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Emelyn F. Montoya led the academic ceremonies, while University President Prof. Merian P. Catajay-Mani, Ed.D., CESE, delivered an inspirational message to the graduating students prior to the formal commencement exercises.

During the graduation program, Vice President for Student Affairs and Services Dr. Giannina Elaine M. Labicane welcomed the graduates and guests, emphasizing the significance of intentional decision-making and continuous personal development.

“The future doesn't happen when people don't make it happen. Rather, it's something that we make by the choices we make, the skills we master,” Dr. Labicane said.

Vice President for Research, Extension, Development, and Innovation Prof. Eddie G. Fetalvero, Ph.D., introduced the commencement speaker, Dr. Michelle Aguilar Ong, Commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

Addressing the graduating class, Dr. Ong encouraged the students to uphold integrity and authenticity as they embark on their professional journeys.
“Speak from the heart,” she urged, emphasizing the value of “working even when no one is watching you.”

The commencement exercises also featured the Words of Challenge delivered by Hon. Eleandro Jesus F. Madrona, Representative of the Lone District of Romblon, before the formal conferment of degrees and awarding of diplomas.

The graduation rites were conducted in two clusters. Cluster 1, held on June 4, recognized graduates from GEPS, CAS, and CBA. Delivering the valedictory address was Pearl R. Musa, a Bachelor of Science in Biology major in Microbiology graduate from CAS, who encouraged her fellow graduates to remain steadfast amid life's challenges.

“Failure doesn't define us; what truly matters is our willingness to work, rise again, and keep moving forward despite the setbacks,” Musa said. ”

Meanwhile, Cluster 2, held on June 5, honored graduates from CCMADI, CED, CET, and CAFES. Aira M. Sarzona, a Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Science graduate from CED, delivered the valedictory address, highlighting resilience and perseverance through Winston Churchill's renowned quote:“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”

The ceremony concluded with the induction of graduates into the RSU Alumni Association led by its president, Dr. Renato R. Menrige Jr. The pledge of loyalty was administered by Ms. Mia Scent T. Falqueza, Vice President of the Graduating Class of 2026, during Cluster 1, and by Mr. Russel Jude C. Mondia, President of the Graduating Class of 2026, during Cluster 2.

The graduates then joined in the traditional rendition of the graduation song, marking the culmination of RSU's golden commencement exercises and the beginning of a new chapter in their academic and professional lives.

via Xian Dane Gaboc
// photos by Edene Gercan and Rheana Nicolette Guirindola

Congratulations to our graduates!

It feels like just yesterday that you joined The Harrow, eager to learn, create, and make your mark. Now, as you reach this milestone, we cannot help but look back on all the memories, challenges, deadlines, laughter, and achievements we shared together.

Thank you for being part of this publication and for giving your time, talent, and heart to every story, project, and activity. Your contributions helped shape not only The Harrow but also the people who had the privilege of working alongside you.

We hope you carry with you the lessons, friendships, and experiences you gained here. Wherever life takes you, know that The Harrow will always be proud to have been part of your journey. You may be graduating, but you will always have a place in this family.

Congratulations, graduates. We are proud of you and excited to see where your next story leads.

// pubmat by Mark Andrew Fabella

FEATURE| From watching the stage to owning it

"Noong baccalaureate, nakaupo lang kami ni mama tapos pumapalakpak sa mga may Latin honors na umaakyat sa stage habang sinasabitan ng medals. Medyo disappointed ako sa sarili ko, at the same time, nanghihinayang ako."

This is how Paul Kennedy F. Fajel started his story. Raw. Honest. Just the truth, the truth where it all started.

Paul lives in Pangulo, Calatrava, Romblon. He is a son of Berlito F. Fajel Jr. and Rosalie F. Fajel. He graduated from Romblon State University - Main Campus with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education, Major in Science. And now, Top 5 in March 2026 Licensure Examination for Teachers. But before everything, he was once a student who always said, "pwede na 'to."

He is not the type of student everyone expected to reach this point. He personally admitted that he is just an average student, graduated without Latin honor nor distinction, and with little achievements. He didn't want stress, he didn't want to push himself beyond his limits. Before, he believed that "pwede na 'to" was enough.

Graduation came. No Latin honor. No distinction. He sat beside his mother during baccalaureate, clapping for those who received medals, and with every clap, a thought settled in him. "Ang sarap pala sa feeling na maiakyat mo ang parents mo sa stage tapos maramdaman nila yung bunga ng kanilang sakripisyo," he said. "Kaso wala, 'di ako naka-abot." His mother told him that it was okay, that it wasn't not that important. But inside, Paul felt differently.

That feeling stayed with him for a long time. Until one afternoon, while scrolling through TikTok, he watched a video of graduates stepping onto the stage with their parents, medals, and tears. And something he hadn't felt in a long time came back to him: hope.

"May chance pa ako na maiakyat ang parents ko sa stage. Kahit impossible, nag-set ako ng goal na makasama sa topnotchers."

He started reviewing in September. The setup was online, personal pacing, personal strategy, and a deeper understanding of himself. His routine was simple: 2 hours review in the morning, 2 hours in the afternoon, and in the evening, online classes. Sunday was his rest day. He slept enough. He used Artificial Intelligence tools to generate practice exams and to break down complicated concepts he couldn't fully understand. He used Quizlet for flashcards. Active recall, spaced repetition, and the Feynman technique, were his study techniques. He focused on topics aligned with the Table of Specifications (TOS). "Study smart, not hard."

He reviewed alone in their other house. "First time ko ring umiyak dahil sa review journey ko," he admitted. "Naranasan ko yung lungkot, pressure, pagod, stress, at overthinking." He was uncertain. He was not sure if he was doing the right thing. He kept asking himself if his efforts were enough. All those questions had only one answer, God. "Everytime na nanghihina ako, si Lord talaga yung nagpapalakas sa akin."

Then came the examination day.

He didn't get enough sleep the night before the exam. He felt uncomfortable in the hotel. His back had also been aching, something he had endured throughout his review from sitting for long hours. He sat down to answer his board exam tired, in pain, and full of doubt. He kept squirming in his chair, finding a comfortable position. Every 10 to 15 items, he would stand, stretch, pray, and sit back down. During the Professional Education subject, his mind went blank. Suddenly, everything he had studied felt like it had vanished. There were items he skipped. Fortunately, there was still time to go back and answer them.

"Gusto ko nalang tapusin ang exam kahit 'di na ganun kataas makuha ko," he said. But something kept pulling him back, the thought of not wanting to fail. The time he gave. The exhaustion he carried. The tears he shed. He had given so much for this. And thinking of his parents, failing was simply not an option.

He finished the exam. He walked out with uncertainty. When the results came out, he saw his name. Top 5.

"Speechless ako. Ayaw mag-sink in sa'kin na nakapasok ako sa top." He didn't just pass the board exam. He didn't just add three letters, LPT, to his name. He hit the top.

Once the student who simply sat beside his mother, watching others receive their medals, he is now one of the country's Top 5. A dream that once seemed impossible was no longer a dream.

"Na-realize ko na may mga bagay minsan na hindi ibinibigay agad sa'yo kasi may mas malaking plano pala para sa'yo," Paul said.

And to those who are nearly at the edge of giving up, to those who silently studying alone in the dark, to those who graduated without medals but carry a heart that desires something greater,

"Hindi mo kailangan maging pinaka-matalino para magtagumpay. Kailangan willing ka lang matuto, mag-effort, at bumangon kahit mahirap. Do your best, and God will do the rest."

This is not just advice. For Paul, this is his story, his journey over those months of struggle and faith. And now, this is his testimony.

// written by Rhea Lee B. Gado
// pubmat by Janellie Muyo

CAMPUS NEWS| RSU records six passers in May 2026 Certified Public Accountant Licensure Examination

Romblon State University recorded six new passers in the May 2026 Certified Public Accountant Licensure Examination (CPALE), based on the results released by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on June 2.

RSU posted a 60.00% passing rate among first-time takers and 40.00% overall passing rate, both of which exceeded the national average of 30.83%.

The newly registered Public Accountants from RSU are:

1. Princess Izza F. Falculan, CPA
2. Jennelyn R. Grospe, CPA
3. Lester M. Nagora, CPA
4. Gylbee Ysabelle F. Palomata, CPA
5. Trishaneil F. Patnon, CPA
6. Liza Mae C. Vicente, CPA

via John Alfred Baldera
// pubmat by Cyrah Jenn Falcunitin

Commissioner Hon. Michelle Aguilar-Ong of the Commission of Higher Education shares the inspiration behind the Project Pag-ibig.





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HAPPENING NOW
Romblon State University officially launches Project PAG-IBIG with a Ceremonial Signing of commitment in support of CHED ARUGA program, today, June 3, 2026, at the University Quadrangle.

Through CHED ARUGA and Project PAG-IBIG, RSU and other SUCs takes another step toward creating a nurturing space where children, parents, and families can grow, dream, and thrive together.

“When we invest in families, we invest in the future.”

A message of hope and empowerment from CHED Chairperson Hon. Shirley C. Agrupis as the Project PAG-IBIG Family Empowerment Center is officially launched, strengthening families, empowering communities, and ensuring that no learner is left behind.





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“When we invest in families, we invest in the future.”

A message of hope and empowerment from CHED Chairperson Hon. Shirley C. Agrupis as the Project PAG-IBIG Family Empowerment Center is officially launched, strengthening families, empowering communities, and ensuring that no learner is left behind.

As Project PAG-IBIG officially begins, University President Dr. Merian P. Catajay-Mani underscores the power of a supportive community where solo parents are empowered, and children are given opportunities to flourish. Her message reflects the project's vision of building a better future together.





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As Project PAG-IBIG officially begins, University President Dr. Merian P. Catajay-Mani underscores the power of a supportive community where solo parents are empowered, and children are given opportunities to flourish. Her message reflects the project's vision of building a better future together.

HAPPENING NOW
Romblon State University formally opens the Family Empowerment Center of the Project PAG-IBIG through a ribbon-cutting ceremony today, June 3, 2026, at the RSU Community Outreach Center, ushering in a new space dedicated to empowering solo parents, children, educational institutions, and communities.





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HAPPENING NOW
Romblon State University formally opens the Family Empowerment Center of the Project PAG-IBIG through a ribbon-cutting ceremony today, June 3, 2026, at the RSU Community Outreach Center, ushering in a new space dedicated to empowering solo parents, children, educational institutions, and communities.