
The Official Online Monthly Newsletter of the Office of the President
Vol 1 – No-5 October 2023
KLD at UM’s Global Conference: Nurtures Vision for Sustainable Education Development
In the nurturing embrace of the University of Malaya (UM) in Kuala Lumpur, the International Conference on Sustainable Education Development unfolded its intellectual wings, igniting a beacon for a sustainable future in education.
The ceremonial genesis transpired within the hallowed halls of the Auditorium, where a symphony of scholarly voices painted a canvas of educational revolution.

One resounding note emerged from the presentation titled “Enhancing High School Students’ Knowledge and Awareness of Disaster Readiness and Risk Reduction through Interactive Anime-Inspired Computer Simulation,” sculpted by the collaborative minds of Inst. Cecilia Raquel C. Alvaran, Inst. Noel A. Digma, Asst Prof. Kenneth A. Cualbar, Inst. Lodelio Millo and Dr. Ernesto Bastida Jr. Their pioneering fusion of education and technology captured the audience’s imagination.

Equally riveting was the discourse on “Community Engagement and Citizenship Competence of Tertiary Students in a Public Higher Educational Institution,” spearheaded by the esteemed Dr. Ernesto L. Bastida, Assoc Prof. Luchel Gloriani, and Inst. Rona Liezl Hernandez, lauded for its depth and insight into civic pedagogy.
Amid the proceedings, a pivotal meeting set the stage for a multifaceted collaboration and partnership between KLD and UM, marking the commencement of a promising alliance. The discussions hinted at an expansive collaboration spanning various educational domains, marking the dawn of a holistic partnership between the institutions. This union seeks to intertwine its expertise across diverse facets of academia, promising a comprehensive collaborative effort toward a progressive educational horizon.





Team KLD forays possible partnership with the Faculty of Education of University of Malaya. (photo courtesy of Inst. Cecilia Raquel Alvaran and Assoc. Prof. Robbie Jan Vincent Buelo)
Continuing the scholarly Odyssey, the conference resonated with the discourse on “Participation, Promotion, and Practices of the IPEd-Implementing Schools in Localizing Sustainable Development Goals towards Development-Oriented Inclusive Education Governance.” This groundbreaking exposition, authored by Inst. Rudy Bhonne De Lara, Inst. Jerbert Abargos, Asst. Prof. Catherine Oliquino, Assoc. Prof. Robbie Jan Vincent Buelo, Inst. Fatima Tabia, and Dr. Ernesto Bastida, Jr., illuminated a transformative path for inclusive educational governance.

Dr. Bastida, a beacon in the academic realm, not only contributed as an author but also graced the panel, representing the Philippines and delineating the country’s strides in implementing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). His discourse lent a global perspective, enriching the dialogue with multifaceted insights.


Dr. Bastida during the plenary session as he discusses the situation of SDGs in the Philippines. (photo courtesy of Inst. Cecilia Raquel Alvaran)
The apex of the event crowned the research on “Community Engagement and Citizenship Competence of Tertiary Students,” bestowed with the esteemed Best Paper (Platinum Award), celebrating its unparalleled contributions to the academic sphere.




This global congregation boasted luminaries from diverse nations, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Australia, China, Hong Kong, South Korea, Philippines, New Zealand, and Pakistan, fostering a rich mosaic of perspectives, and enriching the symposium’s intellectual landscape.
The International Conference on Sustainable Education Development at UM emerged as a crucible for visionary thought, paving a path towards a sustainable and enlightened future in education, and resonating a harmonious symphony of global pedagogical evolution.
Fervent Pursuit: Passion-Fueled Research at the Heart of Education
In the scholarly landscape of the International Conference on Sustainable Education Development at the University of Malaya, an undercurrent of passion and unwavering dedication was the driving force behind three (3) pioneering research papers. These works not only exemplified academic excellence but also radiated with the fervor of those who sought to catalyze change in the realm of education.
A Quest in Francisco E. Barzaga Integrated High School:
The first paper, “Enhancing High School Students’ Knowledge and Awareness of Disaster Readiness and Risk Reduction through Interactive Anime-Inspired Computer Simulation,” was not just a compilation of data but a labor of passion and commitment. The research team, led by Inst. Cecilia Raquel C. Alvaran, Inst. Noel A. Digma, Asst Prof. Kenneth A. Cualbar, Inst. Lodelio Millo, and Dr. Ernesto Bastida, Jr., ventured into Francisco E. Barzaga Integrated High School, where they embarked on a journey to uplift the educational landscape. Their data gathering process was not merely a routine exercise but a heartfelt pursuit of making a difference in the lives of high school students, ensuring they were prepared for unforeseen calamities.


Intellectual Odyssey
The second paper, “Community Engagement and Citizenship Competence of Tertiary Students in a Public Higher Educational Institution: An Explanatory Sequential Mixed Methods Study,” led by Dr. Ernesto L. Bastida, Assoc Prof. Luchel Gloriani, and Inst. Rona Liezl Hernandez, delved into intellectual avenues. Their data gathering was more than an exploration—it was a fervent endeavor to understand and foster a sense of civic responsibility among tertiary students. The passion resonated in their thorough methods, ensuring a holistic understanding of student engagement and citizenship competence.
Unified Effort in Agusan Del Sur
The third paper, “Participation, Promotion, and Practices of the IPEd-Implementing Schools in Localizing Sustainable Development Goals towards Development-Oriented Inclusive Education Governance,” authored by Inst. Rudy Bhonne De Lara, Inst. Jerbert Abargos, Asst. Prof. Catherine Oliquino, Assoc. Prof. Robbie Jan Vincent Buelo, Inst. Fatima Tabia, and Dr. Ernesto Bastida, Jr., embodied an exceptional dedication that unfolded in multiple phases.
Dr. Bastida and Assoc. Prof. Buelo embarked on their first visit to Agusan Del Sur, humbly seeking consent and sending formal letters to the concerned educational institutions. Their initial visit was marked by the establishment of rapport and the initiation of a collaborative journey.
For the second crucial phase, Dr. Bastida and Assoc. Prof. Buelo were joined by Inst. Tabia for the actual interview process, marking an essential juncture where the research transcended theoretical dimensions and took root in the very fabric of educational institutions. Their visit was not just a mere journey; it was a passionate quest to understand and amplify the voices of these institutions, nurturing a collective ambition for sustainable development goals and inclusive education governance. The dedication and tireless efforts of these scholars in Agusan Del Sur reflected an unwavering commitment to the pursuit of a more informed and empowered educational landscape.





These research endeavors were not mere scholarly exercises but embodiments of fervor and dedication, weaving together the fabric of a more empowered, informed, and inclusive educational future. Their extra passion was the invisible thread binding these papers, making them a testimony to the transformative power of enthusiastic scholarship.
Midterm Triumph: Students Navigate Academic Milestones with Resilience
In a display of unwavering commitment, students recently undertook the formidable task of midterm examinations at Kolehiyo ng Lungsod ng Dasmarinas. Within the hallowed halls of academia, both students and faculty members played pivotal roles, in ensuring the integrity and success of this academic milestone.
Faculty members, diligently serving as proctors and examiners, demonstrated a shared dedication to fostering an environment conducive to academic achievement. Their commitment to the examination process was evident in the seamless execution of their responsibilities.
However, amidst the camaraderie, subtle academic challenges surfaced, but faculty members navigated the situation with poise, ensuring the examinations proceeded with minimal disruption. The silent sacrifices made by these educators highlighted a commitment that transcended the call of duty. Despite these challenges, faculty members were steadfast in ensuring the examinations ran smoothly, sparing no effort to guarantee a fair and comprehensive evaluation of student knowledge.
As the echoes of pens settling onto desks faded and examination halls emptied, students departed knowing they had overcome challenges with resilience and determination. The recent midterm examinations at KLD stand as a testament to the collective efforts of both students and faculty, underscoring the commitment to academic excellence even in the face of subtle adversities.
Dasmariñas Forges Strategic Alliances and Welcomes Collaborative MOUs with Leading Institutions
In a trailblazing move, the City of Dasmariñas has embarked on a journey of educational advancement, forging pivotal Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with two esteemed institutions on October 16, 2023. These transformative partnerships signal a significant stride towards shaping a progressive educational landscape for the city.

The first in this series of collaborations was with the Lyceum of the Philippines Cavite (LPU), symbolizing Dasmariñas’s commitment to fostering academic excellence. This pioneering MOU was signed in the presence of key figures, including City Mayor Hon. Mayor Jenny Austria-Barzaga, KLD President Dr. Juanito O. Cabanias, and representatives from LPU, such as Dr. Ma. Cecilia O. Quibel, RN, Dean, College of Nursing; Jan Jarrel Gillego, RN, MAN, College Secretary; and Noel Christian Cruz, RN, MAN, Clinical Coordinator. The occasion marked the initiation of a strategic partnership which prioritizes the synergy between academia and the broader community.



Following this landmark agreement, the second MOU was inked with Concentrix CVG Philippines INC., further solidifying Dasmariñas’s dedication to providing diverse educational opportunities. Present at this significant signing were notable figures, including City Mayor Hon. Mayor Jenny Austria-Barzaga, KLD President Dr. Juanito O. Cabanias, and representatives from both Concentrix and KLD. This collaboration emphasizes the city’s commitment to bridging the gap between academia and industry, preparing students for a dynamic and evolving professional landscape.

In attendance were Dr. Ernesto L. Bastida Jr., KLD’s Vice President for Research and Linkages; Inst. Rudy Bhonne R. De Lara, KLD’s Director for Linkages and External Affairs; Inst. Maria Beatrize M. Malicdem, KLD’s Head for Industry Engagements and Partnerships; Inst. Jerbert M. Abargos, KLD’s Head for Internationalization and Global Relations; Mr. Alnard Pagulayan, Concentrix’s Leader for Talent Delivery; and Ms. Tisha Luistro, Concentrix’s Senior Trainer for Academic and Community Engagement.
These groundbreaking MOUs not only symbolize a commitment to collaboration but also signify the city’s proactive stance in pioneering innovative educational initiatives. Dasmariñas looks forward to a future defined by transformative partnerships which will elevate education and industry engagement to unprecedented heights.
STARS OF THE MONTH -HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT UNIT STAFF
In a well-deserved recognition, the Human Resource Management Unit at Kolehiyo ng Lungsod ng Dasmariñas, led by the esteemed Ms. May-ann S. Villapando, MBA, with Ms. Maylyn Ekit, Mr. Maurice Villena, and Ms. Caren Campaner, has been honored as the Staff of the Month!

Their exceptional dedication and hard work, notably in processing the salaries of faculty members and other employment-related documents needed by KLD employees, set them apart. Ms. Villapando and her team exemplify excellence in managing human resources, ensuring the smooth and efficient functioning of crucial processes.

This accolade not only celebrates their achievements but also acknowledges the vital role they play in fostering a supportive and effective work environment at KLD. Congratulations to the HRM Unit, our Staff of the Month!
OFFICE OF THE MONTH – HEALTH SERVICES UNIT
For the month of October, a well-deserved accolade goes to the Health Services Unit, led by the dedicated Ms. Julie Ann Jasmin, RN, as they are honored as the Office of the Month!

Their outstanding commitment to addressing health concerns for students and faculty, coupled with their proactive assistance in distributing vitamins and vaccines, has set them apart. The Unit plays a pivotal role in ensuring the well-being of the KLD community, making this recognition a testament to their invaluable contributions.

Congratulations to the Health Services Unit for their unwavering dedication and exceptional service, our Office of the Month!
EDITORIAL BOARD |
Consultant |
DR. JUANITO O. CABANIAS, LPT |
Editor-in-Chief |
ASSOC. PROF. ROBBIE JAN VINCENT T. BUELO, MC, LPT |