Vol 1 – No. 3 – August 2023

The Official Online Monthly Newsletter of the Office of the President

Vol 1 – No-3 August 2023

KOLEHIYO NG LUNGSOD NG DASMARIÑAS HOLDS INAUGURAL COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES
The first batch of KLD graduates as they march on the processional of the 1st Commencement Exercise. (photos courtesy of SPM Kiko Barzaga FaceBook Page)

 Kolehiyo ng Lungsod ng Dasmariñas celebrated a historic moment as it held its first-ever commencement exercises on August 30, 2023. The event, which took place at the KLD Gymnasium, was a significant milestone for the institution, as it saw 46 graduates from the Diploma in Midwifery program don their academic regalia and receive their well-deserved diplomas

The academic convocations commenced with a clinical graduation ceremony at 7:00 a.m., where the graduates participated in the ring and pin imposition ceremony. Ms. Patricia Gomez, RM, MCHS, delivered an inspiring address as the guest speaker. 

The top 10 students for their clinical practice pose after receiving their awards. (photo courtesy of Los Sueños)

At 10:00 a.m., the first institutional commencement exercises unfolded, featuring a grand processional that included the graduates, faculty, staff, unit and department heads, officials, directors, and deans, as well as vice presidents, the board of trustees, and city officials led by Cong. Elpidio F. Barzaga, Jr. and Mayor Jennifer Austria-Barzaga, the college president, and the guest speaker. Atty. Reina Villa-Guro delivered an insightful address to the graduates.

  During this session, academic honors and special awards were presented. The following students were recognized for their outstanding achievements:

            Academic Honors:
                        Juhanna Padin (With High Distinction)
                        Maricris Talon (With High Distinction)
                        Elmira Niña Espiritu (With High Distinction)

            Special Awardees:
                      Elmira Niña Espiritu (Elpidio F. Barzaga Jr. Outstanding Leader
                        Award)
                      Maricris Talon (Jennifer Austria-Barzaga Leaderboard Award for
                        Diversity and Inclusion)
                      Juhanna Padin (Kiko A. Barzaga Emerging Leader Award)
                      Gerenilyn Cristel Samson (KLD President’s Rising Leader Award)

Elmira Niña Espiritu smiles as she receives her Elpidio F. Barzaga Jr. Outstanding Leader Award. She is joined by her parent and Mayor Jennifer Austria-Barzaga. (photo courtesy of SPM Kiko Barzaga FaceBook Page)

 Dr. Juanito O. Cabanias led the confirmation of graduates, and following this, diplomas were distributed along with transcripts of records, certificates of moral character, and alumni IDs. Engr. Kim Carlo Lat, Dean of the Institute of Engineering, capably served as the master of ceremonies for this momentous occasion.

The first commencement exercise of Kolehiyo ng Lungsod ng Dasmariñas was a testament to the hard work, dedication, and academic excellence of the graduates. As they take their next steps in their respective careers, they carry the values and knowledge imparted during their time at KLD. The College looks forward to witnessing the continued success and contributions of its graduates in various fields, especially as they will now take their Midwifery Licensure Examinations this coming November 9-10.

STATE OF THE COLLEGE ADDRESS

Dr. Cabanias delivers the First State of the College Address

The KLD officials, faculty, and staff after the SCA, with Dr. Juanito Cabanias in the center. (photo courtesy of Los Sueños)

Last August 23, 2023, the first State of the College Address (SCA) was held where Dr. Juanito O. Cabanias, LPT, President of Kolehiyo ng Lungsod ng Dasmariñas (KLD), delivered and shared his planned strategic directions for KLD until 2033. Prof. Andy Nestor Ryan Pazon, Vice President for Academic Affairs, delivered the opening remarks, while Hon. Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga, Sangguniang Panlungsod Member, shared a thoughtful message to the attendees.
 
During the SCA, Dr. Cabanias presented his various plans for the college, including the offering of new programs, scholarships for the students, and improvements in the college, among others. Dr. Cabanias also shared and presented the accomplishments of the various domains within the institution.

The State of the College Address also featured the faculty, staff, and students who achieved notable recognition in international and local research presentations and publications; licensure and civil service examinations; completion of graduate studies; top-performing faculty in students’ evaluation; membership in professional organizations; participation and initiation of community engagements; and, excellence in student leadership.

Assoc. Prof. Keno Villavicencio, Dean of the Institute of Information and Computing Sciences, closed the ceremonies. Assoc. Prof. Jezreel del Espiritu Santo, Dean of the Institute of Student Affairs, Character Education, and Citizenship, served as the Master of Ceremonies.

The event was organized by the Office of the President, headed by Dr. Cabanias, with Inst. Rudy Bhonne De Lara, Director for the Center of Philanthropic and Resource Generation, Inst. Jerbert Abargos, Director for the Center for Public Affairs and Strategic Communications, and Assoc. Prof. Robbie Jan Vincent Buelo, Special Assistant to the President.

KLD WELCOMES THE NEW ACADEMIC YEAR WITH A BANG

Kolehiyo ng Lungsod ng Dasmariñas welcomed the new Academic Year 2023-2024 with a flag-raising ceremony in front of College Building 1 on August 22, 2023, at 6:50 a.m. Students from the five different academic programs of the College were present and participated in the ceremony. The ceremony also included messages from Dr. Juanito O. Cabanias, LPT, College President, and Prof. Andy Nestor Ryan Pazon, Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Various student organizations helped the administration prepare for the first day of this academic year. They also initiated decorating the facade of the building to colorfully welcome the students. A Freshmen Walk also happened to welcome the first-year students of KLD.

The flag-raising ceremony was spearheaded by the Institute of Information and Computing Sciences.

KLD FACULTY SHINES ON GLOBAL RESEARCH STAGE

Kolehiyo ng Lungsod ng Dasmarinas may be a new school, but its faculty members are competitive and explorative enough to venture into the research world. During this month, several faculty members participated in various research conferences where they not only presented their research work but also brought home some bacon – not once, but twice.

Last August 11-12 at the La Carmela de Boracay Hotel and Convention Center, Boracay, Aklan, the team headed by Inst. Fatima Tabia, with Dr. Ernesto Bastida Jr., Vice President for Research and Linkages, Asst. Prof. Catherine Oliquino, Inst. John Derick Denzo, Inst. Judemar Miel, and Inst. Ma. Cecilia Maurillo authored and presented the research study, “The Role Of Youth Organizations Through Creating A Sustainable Development-Oriented Youth Empowerment Framework And Community Engagement Plan” in the DLSU International Social Science Conference 2023, with a theme Sustainable Development Goals and the Social Sciences. The KLD Team won the Best Paper Award among 160 other research studies. The paper also qualified to be published in the Scopus-Indexed Journal of De La Salle University, Asia-Pacific Social Science Review.

The Team KLD, (From L-R) Inst. Fatima Tabia, Inst. John Derick Denzo, Dr. Ernesto Bastida Jr., Inst. Judemar Miel and Asst. Prof. Catherine Oliquino,  joyfully shares their award as the Best Paper during DISSCon 2023. (photo courtesy of Asst. Prof. Catherine Oliquino)

Also, the research team headed by Inst. Noel Digma, Director for Research and Innovation, with Dr. Ernesto L. Bastida Jr., Vice President for Research and Linkages, Assoc Prof. Ma. Victoria Balbio, Vice President for Administration, Planning, and Development, Inst. Patricia Rose Baguinon, Head of Futures Thinking and Sustainability Unit, Asst. Prof. Russel Gatdula, Head of Computing Sciences Unit, Engr. Grace Y. Ramones, former General Education Coordinator and Inst. Cecilia Raquel Alvaran, Director of the Center for Knowledge Management, won the Best Paper Award for “Tech for Good:  Innovative Practice Category” for their paper presented at the 5th International Conference on Open and Distance eLearning (ICODeL) held at the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) on August 22-23, 2023.

Together with UPOU Chancellor, Dr. Melinda dela Peña Bandalaria, (from L-R) Inst. Noel Digma, Inst. Patricia Rose Baguinon, Asst. Prof. Russel Gatdula, Assoc. Prof. Ma. Victoria Balbio, Inst. Cecilia Raquel Alvaran and Dr. Ernesto Bastida smile as they gratefully celebrate their recognition. (photo courtesy of Inst. Cecilia Raquel Alvaran)

These huge successes of KLD researchers exemplify the skills, passion, and dedication they put into, not only in their academic responsibilities but also in their research activities. 

The Office of the Vice President for Research and Linkages continuously oversees the current and future research works of the institution’s faculty members. In the coming weeks, more research presentations will be attended by the faculty members, and for sure, more bacon will be bagged and celebrated by the institution.

FACULTY DEVELOPMENT TRAINING 2023 FOSTERING EXCELLENCE AND BUILDING BRIDGES

In a bid to equip faculty members with the latest knowledge and tools necessary for enhancing their academic careers and creating a more inclusive campus environment, KLD organized a comprehensive Faculty Development Training program from August 14 to August 18, 2023. This event featured a diverse range of sessions, workshops, and discussions aimed at faculty members’ personal and professional growth.

Day 1: August 14 – Research Enhancement and Campus Support
The training kicked off on August 14 with a series of engaging talks focusing on Research Improvement, the Safe Spaces Act, and the invaluable services offered by the Guidance Services and Career Development Office and the Vice President for Academic Affairs. The Research Improvement session delved into various strategies and best practices for advancing academic research, aiding faculty members in achieving more significant research outcomes. The Safe Spaces Act discussions highlighted the College’s commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students and staff. Faculty members were encouraged to play an active role in fostering such spaces within their departments. The Guidance Office session emphasized the support and resources available to faculty and students, guiding them on academic and personal matters.

Day 2: August 15 – Orientation Day for Research and Linkages
     August 15 was dedicated to the Office of Vice President for Research and Linkages orientation. Faculty members had the opportunity to gain insights into the office’s functions, objectives, and the various research initiatives they could participate in. The session aimed to strengthen the link between faculty research efforts and the institution’s broader research goals.

Day 3: August 16 – Building Social Capital and Nurturing Excellence
The third day featured discussions on “The Role of Knowledge, Learning, and Development (KLD) in Building Social Capital” and “KLD Nurturing Excellence and Sustaining Transformation,” where Dr. Raymundo Arcega, ALCUCOA

Executive Director and President of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Muntinlupa, discussed and solidified various strategies about the topics. He also praised the KLD FB page for bringing insightful news and features about the institution. These sessions were designed to empower faculty members with skills and knowledge to establish strong professional networks and enhance their social capital within the academic community. The KLD Nurturing Excellence session emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and transformation in academic careers, providing practical personal and professional growth strategies.

Day 4: August 17 – Administration, Planning, and HR
On August 17, the focus shifted to discussions from the Office of the Vice President for Administration, Planning, and Development, including insightful HR talks. Faculty members were given valuable insights into the administrative and planning aspects of the College’s operations, as well as updates on HR policies and procedures.

Day 5: August 18 – Academic Affairs and Celebration
The training program concluded on August 18 with discussions from the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs. These discussions included important announcements regarding academic policies and initiatives, ensuring faculty members are well-informed about the College’s academic direction. The closing highlight of the day was the “KLD Colorful Lunch,” where participants had the opportunity to network, exchange ideas, and celebrate the successful completion of the Faculty Development Training through the colorful menus of food from various Units and Institutes.

Throughout the week-long program, faculty members had the chance to engage in meaningful conversations, gain new insights, and strengthen their professional and personal connections within the university community. This Faculty Development Training underscored KLD’s commitment to continuous learning, growth, and the development of a vibrant and inclusive academic environment, especially in building the foundation for Dasmarinenos.

As the new academic year begins, the faculty members who participated in this training are poised to make valuable contributions to the College’s mission of excellence in education and research.

KLD ENROLLMENT BALOONS THIS AY 2023 – 2024

This new academic year 2023-2024 saw a drastic rise in the number of enrollees in the College. From last year’s number of 1828 students enrolled in the three initial programs in KLD, now a whooping 4101 students took the chance of becoming city scholars enrolled across the five programs of the College.  Below are some graphs of the enrollment status in our institution, as provided by The Registrar.

The graph shows the comparison of the enrollment status of AY 2022-2023 where KLD only has three programs. Now, KLD offers five programs and caters 4101 students.

This graph shows how the enrollment of KLD students is distributed to various year levels. The new programs, BS Nursing and BS Civil Engineering, definitely have lots of students who waited for these programs to be offered.

This graph shows the visualization on how KLD students are distributed across its five different programs.

This graph shows the distribution of the enrollment of KLD students according to their year level.

Kolehiyo ng Lungsod ng Dasmariñas is up for the challenge of honing the minds of the future of our city. As the institution has promised, KLD will exert efforts in building foundations for Dasmarineños.

EXPLORING NEW HORIZONS: KLD FIRST OFF-SITE ADVENTURE

Various KLD heads embarked on an exciting off-site adventure at Rosalio Y Mar Private Resort in Calamba City, Laguna, on August 4-5, 2023, marking the first-ever off-site activity for the institution. The event’s activities fostered collaboration, creativity, and a deeper understanding of KLD’s strategic directions.

Dr. Cabanias Illuminates the Path for KLD’s Future

The day began with the crisp morning air resonating with anticipation. Faculty members, each assigned to different rooms, gathered in eager clusters, ready to embrace the adventure ahead. As the sun’s first rays painted the horizon, the opening program kicked off with an air of excitement.

Dr. Juanito O. Cabanias, the esteemed KLD President, graced the occasion as the keynote speaker. His address was nothing short of inspiring, as he unveiled the College’s Strategic Directions for KLD. Dr. Cabanias emphasized the institution’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and the development of its most valuable resource – its faculty.

The President’s message set the tone for the day, infusing participants with a renewed sense of purpose. The KLD Heads and Officials were encouraged to take ownership of their roles in realizing KLD’s strategic objectives, reaffirming their position as torchbearers of academic advancement.

Unleashing Creativity with Doc Estong

Following the President’s address, the spotlight turned to Dr. Ernesto L. Bastida, renowned for his creativity and innovation in academia. Dr. Bastida took center stage, leading a captivating and interactive presentation on bringing the KLD Strategic Directions to life in the most creative and engaging manner.

With Dr. Bastida’s creative inspiration in their hearts, heads and officials were dispersed and delved into interactive workshops and discussions tailored to KLD’s Strategic Directions through a creative presentation. These sessions encouraged participants to brainstorm, collaborate, and explore innovative ways to implement the strategies outlined by Dr. Cabanias.

In each area, a flurry of ideas and discussions unfolded. Faculty members shared diverse perspectives, drawing on their expertise to find common ground and identify creative solutions to challenges. It was a testament to the power of collective wisdom and the potential for transformation when like-minded individuals collaborate. The teams’ presentations were full of surprises and creativities, and were awarded monetary prizes.

A Day to Remember

The first off-site activity of KLD at Rosalio Y Mar Private Resort was more than a break from the ordinary; it was a day of inspiration, creativity, and collaboration. The Heads and Officials returned to campus with a renewed sense of purpose, armed with innovative ideas and a deeper understanding of KLD’s Strategic Directions. As the sun set on this memorable day, it was evident that KLD’s off-site adventure had not only strengthened the bonds among faculty members but had also ignited a spark of creativity that promised to light the way for KLD’s journey into the future. With the KLD’s Strategic Directions as their guiding stars, the KLD community is now equipped to embark on a new academic year filled with innovation, excellence, and limitless possibilities.

STARS OF THE MONTH

In a well-deserved honor, The Registrar, led by its College Registrar, Dr. Ernesto L. Bastida Jr., has been recognized as the “Staff of the Month.” Their dedication and tireless efforts, from streamlining enrollment processes to orchestrating the inaugural commencement exercises, have been pivotal in ensuring a smooth academic journey for students. As guardians of academic records and the backbone of the commencement ceremonies, their commitment to excellence shines through. This accolade acknowledges their invaluable contributions, and KLD commends their unwavering commitment to student success. 

The hardworking staff of The Registrar: (from left to right) Ms Karren Miranda, Mr. Jeffrey Canaynay, Ms. Thalia Balmes, Mr. Leo Giuseppe Dinglasan, and Ms. Macy Joy Ala-Frani. (photo courtesy of Ms. Macy Joy Ala-Frani)

Congratulations to the staff of the The Registrar for their outstanding service to the KLD community; our Staff of the Month!

OFFICE OF THE MONTH – INSTITUTE OF NURSING

The faculty members and students of the Institute of Nursing during their program orientation program. (photos courtesy of Los Sueños)

The Institute of Nursing, headed by Prof. Ma. Lovella Monderin-Aure, the Dean of the Institute, takes center stage as the “Office of the Month” for their remarkable achievements. From the intricacies of enrollment processes to the successful launch and ongoing dedication to the inaugural BS Nursing program, this dynamic team has exemplified unwavering commitment. Their tireless efforts have not only paved the way for aspiring nurses but have also set a high standard for academic excellence. 

 KLD celebrates the Institute of Nursing’s dedication to shaping future healthcare professionals and commends its pivotal role in this historic endeavor. 

Congratulations to the Institute of Nursing for their outstanding contributions and hailed as the Office of the Month!