The CHED-AIM Global Academic Leadership Program (GALP) was created under the Higher Education Act of 1994 (RA 7722) and is guided by CHED Memorandum Orders (CMOs) No. 14, s. 2020 and No. 25, s. 2016.

The event commenced with an inspirational message from CHED NIR Regional Director, Dr. Raul C. Alvarez, Jr., REE, EdD, CESO III, "BCC has done so much, but there are still many things to be done." he remarked.

Dr. Menchie M. Cuenca, Dean of the College of Business and Office Administration (CBOA) and Quality Assurance Director, welcomed the CHED representatives, emphasizing the visit as a collaborative opportunity for the continuous development of the institution.

BCC College Administrator, Dr. Ma. Johanna Ann R. Bayoneta, shared her valuable experience from her AIM-GALP training, "My training has been instrumental in deepening my understanding of transformation leadership— one that should give visionary, value driven, responsive to the challenges in higher education in a rapidly changing world," she said.

In her message, Atty. Lily Freida C. Macabangun-Milla, CESO III, Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the Deputy Executive Director IV and concurrent Director of the International Affairs Service (IAS), provided insights on the implementation of the AIM-GALP REAP projects.

"While compliance is very important, compliance is not your standard-excellence is your standard, and we owe it to our students," she emphasized.

BCC is the first local city college in the Philippines to be visited by CHED Commissioner Hon. Dr. Myrna Q. Mallari. In her message, she explained the purpose of their visit, saying, "We are here to document the success stories resulting from the government's investment in internationalization programs, one of which is AIM-GALP. We will listen and assess how far you have gone and how much impact you have created in your city college."

Afterwards, Dr. Bayoneta presented the BCC Re-entry Action Plan, Innovation Hub: Center for Experiential Learning, supervised by Mr. Jeff A. Azucena.

Meanwhile, John Limuel Tajanlangit of Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship, and Sophia Nicole Ng of Bachelor of Science in Information Systems, proudly introduced their capstone project created at the innovation hub, the JACKK's Guava Blooms with Smart Dispenser (loT).

After the presentation, Commissioner Mallari expressed her profound sense of fulfillment over the success of the project in the open forum.

"The success is not about us; our success is about what we have done to our students— and I think what they have presented to us is exactly an example of how we empower students," she shared.

Present in the event were the National Review Committee on CHED funded internationalization programs and documentation team led by Ms. Jing Castañeda of ABS-CBN.

The IAS office in partnership with the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) School of Executive Education and Lifelong Learning implemented the CHED GALP for State Universities and Colleges

(SUC) and Local Colleges (LUC) Presidents around the Philippines, part of the program's output is the REAP or the capstone project implemented in the institution.

Credits: The City Smile | Via John Vincent Semillano

| Photos by Pierce Gide Panisales

This activity forms a critical part of the college's ongoing recognition renewal process and aims to assess whether the institution continues to meet the required standards for delivering quality higher education.

The evaluation commenced at the newly inaugurated President's Hall, where key representatives from CHED, OIQAG, Bacolod City Government, and the BCC administration gathered for a series of discussions.

Among those present were Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya, BCC College Administrator Dr. Ma. Johanna Ann R. Bayoneta, heads of institutional offices, and the Board of Trustees.

The significance of the visit was underscored by its potential impact on over 4,000 enrolled students, whose academic futures hinge on the outcome of this evaluation.

In his welcome and commitment remarks, Mayor Gasataya acknowledged the existing challenges faced by the city and the institution, but assured CHED and OIQAG of the city's full cooperation and commitment to compliance. "Right now, we have so many challenges—I won't name them one by one. But I will say this: we give our full commitment to comply with CHED and OIQAG's standards. If necessary, we are willing to explore other legal funding sources to ensure full compliance," the mayor stated.

Dr. Raul C. Alvarez, Jr., REE, EdD, CESO III, Director IV of CHED Regional Office VI and concurrent Director of CHED Regional Office XVIII, emphasized the purpose of the visit, clarifying that the inspection was not meant to criticize but to guide the institution toward improvement. 

“We're not here to be faultfinders. This is an evaluation designed to help the college move forward," Dr. Alvarez explained.

He also reiterated the importance of upholding the rights of students to access government-provided educational support, adding, "Ihatag na ang tanan sa kabataan. These students are citizens of the Republic of the Philippines and are entitled to the services of this college."

Adding context to the visit, Mr. Glenn Marco Antonio discussed CHED Memorandum Order (CMO) No. 004-07, which provides the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for the establishment and operation of Local Colleges and Universities (LUs) in the country, pursuant to CMO No. 32, Series of

2006. 

The order outlines the essential prerequisites for opening and maintaining LCUs, including proper consultation between Local Government Units (LGUs) and CHED, and the formation of governing boards such as Boards of Trustees and Regents.

These mechanisms ensure that LCUs like BCC operate within the standards set by CHED and are equipped to deliver quality education.

Other key evaluators from OIQAG present during the activity included Mr. Foulette Gunao, Dr. Lourdes, Cesar, Dr. Louie U. Callora, and Dr. Roxanne I. Edrosolano.

These officials conducted a meticulous assessment of BCC's physical infrastructure and institutional systems, offering constructive feedback intended to support the college in achieving full recognition renewal.

| Via Hannah Joy Nepocpan, John Vincent Semillano | Photos by Pierce Gide Panisales, Khen Luther Bunda

The program opened with a welcome reception led by BCC ushers and usherettes, followed by a cultural presentation, the Chabacano de Zamboanga, performed by selected BCC College of Education (COEd) students.

Dr. Ma. Johanna Ann R. Bayoneta, College Administrator, formally welcomed the delegates and expressed how internationalization is one of BCC's strategic priorities that is aligned with the institution's vision of being a "paragon of excellence in education."

"So, this historic visit affirms our commitment to expanding academic horizons, fostering intercultural understanding, and building sustainable partnership to enhance the quality of instruction research and institutional development." she expressed her confidence that the engagement will lead to beautiful exchanges.

Dr. Sharon Rose Lin T. Masa, CEO and Chair of the Board of Trustees then introduced the Educators of Negros Island Incorporated (EONII). She stressed that good relationships do not begin with documents, agreements or signatures, but with people who believe in each other's advocacies, values, and shared vision.

"In every good and effective collaboration there is one quiet, yet powerful force that binds everything together, and that is good understanding-strengthened by hard work, integrity, respect and deep friendship ... these values are not optional," she added.

Dr. Masa also recognized the role of the provincial government of Negros Occidental in making initiatives such as the exchange program possible and highlighted how their steadfast support affirms that "when [the] government, education, and international partners work together, opportunities for our youth expand beyond borders."

Representing the Lao PDR delegation, Ms. Niphada Vanthanouvong, in behalf of Madam Xanachith Vanthanouvong, Executive Director of Sivilay School, Luang Prabang, Lao PDR, shared their message of cooperation and interest in exploring collaborative educational opportunities with BCC.

Ms. Kerstien B. Trayco, PhD(c), BCC International Relations Officer and Research Director, then presented the rationale of the proposed international exchange program which is anchored in service and volunteerism and shared the background of the said initiative, and where it is headed.

"We are now ready for international collaboration, we need to start somewhere, so we have that connections so why don't we cross the bridge now? So, while we are envisioning it, we have to prepare ourselves also," she shared.

Afterward, an exchange program conference was attended by the Lao PDR delegates, BCC department and program heads and staff, and members of the EONIl board.

In the end, the program concluded with an exchange of tokens and a group photo opportunity. The exploratory meeting marked a significant step toward future collaboration and the possible implementation of an international exchange program at BCC.

Three other delegates from Laos were Vahnsouda Manivanh, Consultant, Sivilay School, Luang Prabang, Laos; Neo Abell P. Obligar, PhD, Campus Director, Sivilay 3, and International Program Director, Educators of Negros Island Incorporated; and Lester O. Elipse, Deputy Director and Foreign Campus Director, Educators of Negros Island Incorporated.

Credits: The City Smile | Via Mikylla Rico | Photos by Pierce Gide Panisales, Khen Luther Bunda

An impressive 87.8% performance result for the Bachelor of Elementary Education Program, and 97% for the Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in English.

Furthermore, PRC announced the results of the LEPT, with 21,967 elementary teachers out of 43,035 examinees (51.04%) and 57,729 secondary teachers out of 79,493 examinees (72.62%) successfully passing the exam.

Warmest congratulations to the newly licensed BCCian graduates.

Credits: The City Smile | Via John Vincent Semillano, CJ Mae Pardorla | Layout and design by Reymark Jake Amar

The activity was part of Bacolod City College (BCC)-Advocates for Kalikasan; Unifying, Restoring, Augmenting, and Nurturing (BAKURAN) and the United Seniors Organization (USO) second Tree-Growing event.

The initiative helps the city reach its goal of increasing green spaces and fighting climate change. It is also in line with City Ordinance No. 533, which promotes widespread tree planting.

Together with the faculty and staff from the ACT-BSIS Department and CBOA, they showed the importance of working together and how education can help create responsible environmental leaders.

The tree-planting area covers 25 hectares, with 8.5 hectares set aside by the government for eco-park use. Since the start of the tree-growing project, about 5,000 trees have been planted thanks to the efforts of both public and private groups.

Councilor Homer Bais, Chairperson of the Committee on Environment, along with Councilor Wilson Gamboa and the Bacolod Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO), were present to mark the success of the event, providing snacks and two Ceres buses.

Additional support also came from the City Engineer's Office, the Office of the Building Official, the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO), Vice Mayor Kalaw Puentevella, and Councilor Bobby Rojas.

More students continue to join the event each month, showing a strong commitment to long-term environmental care.

Credits: The City Smile | Via April Joy Tumbali | Photos by Pierce Gide Panisales

This event is part of Bacolod City's effort to protect the environment and promote sustainability. It was done in support of City Ordinance No. 533, which requires tree planting to fight climate change and increase green spaces in the city.

Organized by BAKURAN and USO, this event became a successful and meaningful day for the graduating seniors of BCC. Both groups were led by Roderick Dela Rosa, a 4th-year Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd) student majoring in English. Dela Rosa is well-known for his leadership and passion for environmental causes. For him, getting students involved in tree planting is an important way to teach the youth about their responsibility to protect the environment.

These efforts of the students and student-leaders contribute directly to the goals of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)-namely SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Life Below Water, and SDG 15: Life on Land.

Proud adviser of BAKURAN, Dr. Junalyn C. Libiran, encouraged the students in her speech to be more aware of and participate in initiatives like this. "Kalapad sang talamnan pero ka-dutay sang manugtanom," she said.

The Bacolod Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO), led by Atty. Allyn Zamora-Dignadice, along with some city engineers, prepared the site for planting. This ensured that the seedlings would grow well in their new location. BENRO has also provided transportation for the students from the campus to the site.

Meanwhile, other transportations for the event were provided by Honorable Councilor Homer Bais, Chairperson of Ecology Committee, who also served some snacks right after the event. Honorable Bais also shared his dreams for BCC in relation to this activity, supporting BCCians all the way through.

Moreover, faculty members from BSIT and CoEd, including Sir Jobert Mirasol, Sir Romulo Bendo, and Ms. Faith Bellocillo, also took part in the activity.

Moreover, faculty members from BSIT and CoEd, including Sir Jobert Mirasol, Sir Romulo Bendo, and Ms. Faith Bellocillo, also took part in the activity.

The tree-growing event will continue with more planting sessions scheduled for December 6, 13, and

20, 2025.

Thus as more trees are planted the activity will encourage students and the local community to keep working together to address environmental challenges and improve the city’s green spaces.

Credits: The City Smile | Via Hannah Joy B. Nepocpan | Photos by Mary Edearlyn C. Manacio

The TechnoHub serves as a collaborative space where students can freely explore their potentials, develop innovative ideas, and design practical solutions that address real-world challenges. It is envisioned to be a center for creativity and experimentation - a place where imagination meets innovation.

Through the TechnoHub, the College aims to strengthen its commitment to nurturing a culture of research, innovation,

and entrepreneurship, empowering students to become future-ready problem solvers and innovators who can contribute meaningfully to community and national development.

Location: 2nd Floor, Information Systems Building, BCC Taculing Campus

Open: Monday thru Saturday

Person In-Charge: Mr. Jeff A. Azucena

#BCCTechnoHub

#InnovationStartsHere

#BacolodCityCollege

As recalled, the Christmas Wish Tree display began on November 21 and featured hygiene kits, groceries, and underwear. These items were generously donated by BCCians, as well as faculty and staff.

The culminating activity was initiated by JSINSP Divina G. Salazar, Acting Warden of the Metro Bacolod District Jail-Female Dormitory, and was warmly welcomed by Dr. Ma. Johanna Ann R.

Bayoneta.

According to JSINSP Salazar, BCC was chosen because when those who struggle the most choose to give, it is not merely an act of kindness but a true expression of love.

Faculty members, staff, and students of BCC attended the activity and led the distribution of gifts.

The delegation was headed by the College Administrator, Dr. Ma. Johanna Ann R. Bayoneta, who delivered an inspiring message. She was joined by Mr. Adnan Balisi, DrPH(c), PTRP, RGC, Director of Student Affairs and Services; Mr. Jessie Solas, IS Program Head; and Paul Dennus Gerasmia, Program Head of BS Entrepreneurship.

In appreciation, the PDLs prepared a heartfelt performance and delivered a message of gratitude.

Credits: The City Smile | Via Mica Mae Ramilla | Photos by Johan Agupitan

Organized by the head librarian, Ms. Fritzel C. Tabaque, RL, MLIS, the event aimed to improve students' research skills and show the important role of libraries in school success and national development.

The resource speaker, Ms. Kristine E. Salaritan, Sales Manager for Visayas and Mindanao of LibTech Source Phils. Inc., gave a clear training session on how to use BCC's main online databases. She explained that these online tools offer high-quality, peer-reviewed materials that students need for writing research papers, theses, and capstone projects.

BCC librarians shared that this year's Book Week supports the national goal of promoting literacy, encouraging learning, and reminding everyone of the lasting value of libraries in helping students become informed.

For academic communities like BCC, the celebration not only promotes the love of reading but also helps develop strong research and information-literacy skills needed for success in college.

To increase student interest, the library also opened a New Acquisitions Display, showing the newest books, e-books, and e-journals in both physical and online formats.

Credits: The City Smile | Via Hannah Joy B. Nepocpan | Photos by Mary Edearlyn C. Manacio

A total of 232 female Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) from the Metro Bacolod District Jail-Female Dormitory wrote their Christmas wish lists, which were hung on the tree displayed at the campus entrance. Many of the wishes included hygiene kits, groceries, and underwear.

The event was facilitated by various sectors and their heads such as the Community Extension Services

(CES) Office headed by Ms. Mary Jane Alunan, Dr. Ma. Johanna Ann Bayoneta, BCC College Administrator, and Paul Dennus Gerasmia, BS Entrepreneurship Program Head together with Ms.

Divina Salazar, the Female Warden and her officers, J03 Cristine Jallorina, Assistant Warden, J01 Lovely Joy Gregorio, Unit Welfare Development Officer.

The event started with opening remarks from Ms. Alunan and was followed by a heartfelt message from Dr. Ma. Johanna Ann R. Bayoneta, College Administrator, who emphasized that the event was an

"opportunity to go back to society."

The event concluded with closing remarks delivered by Mr. Adnan Balisi, DrPH (c), PTRP, RGC, Director of Student Affairs and Services.

The initiative reflects BCC's core value of Community, affirming that even in challenging circumstances, every person deserves to be seen, heard, and valued.

Credits: The City Smile | Via Mica Mae Ramilla | Photos| Denmark Bandiola

On November 4, 2025, Bacolod City was placed under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 4 as Typhoon Tino brought maximum sustained winds of around 155 kilometers per hour and gusts reaching up to 200 kilometers per hour across the Visayas region, including Negros Island Region.

The typhoon uprooted trees, shattered glass windows, and caused major damage to several classrooms and buildings. The campus, usually filled with students, was left covered in debris and fallen branches.

Despite the destruction, the BCC community continues to show strength and determination. Faculty members, staff, and students have joined together to clear the grounds.

This teamwork reflects the wider recovery efforts taking place across Bacolod City after the devastating storm.

Even after facing one of the strongest typhoons in recent years, the school's spirit remains unbroken.

It is ready to rebuild, reopen, and move forward together.

Credits: The City Smile | Via Hannah Joy Nepocpan | Photos by Khen Luther Bunda, Some photos Courtesy of Ms. Margie Tagle

The event was organized by the Art Association of Bacolod in which Ms. Tey, the President, marked it as their golden anniversary.

The first Mask-Higante Contest with the theme, "Totoy and Inday sa Masskara" was part of this year's Masskara Festival Celebration, showcasing the creativity of different barangays and school, each given character assignment express through their puppets.

"Enjoy lang tanan, para ni sa aton tanan ang aton na Masskara Festival," Vice Mayor Puentevella shared in his special message during the event, he also reminded everyone that they were already winners even before the contest began extending his congratulations.

The Central Student Government (CSG) partnered with the Philippine Association of Students in Office Administration (PASOA) had their theme centered around photography while United Seniors' Organization and Consortium of the Artistically Driven embraced the lively carnival theme, reflecting the playful side of the Masskara celebration.

Barangay Villamonte named as champion with their "Electric Masskara" performance. While Barangay 11 with their "Tourist and Partygoers" and Barangay Tangub's "Artist Making Mask and Costume" placed 1st and 2nd respectively.

Credits: The City Smile | Via Kimberly Galas | Photos by Pierce Gide Panisales

Led by the BCC Advocates for Kalikasan: Unifying, Restoring, Augmenting, and Nurturing (BAKURAN). this large-scale cleanup targeted some areas of the campus in support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Climate Action (SDG 13), Life Below Water (SDG 14), and Life on Land (SDG 15).

The event, which saw participation from 18 clubs and organizations, spanned the entire Taculing Campus, focusing on key areas such as the COEd Building, BSOA, and ACT/IS.

By removing waste from both land and water systems, students directly contributed to SDG 13's call for climate action—addressing pollution that impacts the local environment and contributes to global climate challenges. In addition to the physical cleanup, students were reminded of how land-based waste affects marine ecosystems—a critical issue under SDG 14. 

Items improperly disposed of on campus can easily enter waterways, posing serious threats to marine life. In line with SDG 15, students took action to ensure a healthier, more resilient environment for both land and aquatic ecosystems.

This drive demonstrated that small but united actions at the campus level can meaningfully contribute to the global fight against environmental degradation.

Credits: The City Smile | Via Hannah Joy Nepocpan | Photos by Pierce Gide Panisales

The officers pledged to faithfully discharge their duties and responsibilities, uphold their organization's Constitution and By-Laws, and serve the student body with integrity, honesty, and dedication.

College Administrator Dr. Johanna Ann R. Bayoneta gave a speech, encouraging the student leaders to lead with passion and humility as committed representatives of the school.

Present at the ceremony were the Student Development Officer, Ms. Angelica T. Apawan, LPT, MAEd, and the Director of Student Affairs and Services, Sir Adnan N. Balisi, DrPH(c), PTRP, RGC.

Credits: The City Smile | via Hannah Joy B. Nepocpan | photos by Pierce Gide Panisales, Rexter Guanzon

In her opening message, BCC Administrator Dr. Ma. Johanna Ann R. Bayoneta shared the importance of promoting global collaboration while preserving local identity. "We need to look into collaboration beyond our borders, while still remaining locally grounded and thriving within the culture of ASEAN countries," she said. She also extended her gratitude to Dr. Raul C. Alvarez, Jr., REE, EdD, CESO III, Director IV of CHEDRO VI and concurrent Director of CHEDRO XVIII, for leading this initiative that strengthens the role of LUCs in the regions.

The seminar-workshop aimed to enhance participants' understanding of internationalization (IZN) and guide LUC officials in designing initiatives anchored on CHED's IZN Pillars. It also served as a platform for academic leaders to exchange ideas and build partnerships in advancing internationalization.

Dr. Danebeth G. Narzoles, Officer-in-Charge and Chief Education Program Specialist of CHED Regional Office VI, and Internationalization (IZN) Focal Person for both CHEDRO VI and XVIII, delivered a comprehensive presentation on CHED's IZN Pillars, Goals, and Indicators. She also facilitated the workshop on Strategic Internationalization Planning, assisting participants in drafting and presenting their respective plans.

In the afternoon session, Mr. Raymond Vergara, Assistant Professor IV of Mabalacat City College (MCC), shared the institution's journey toward international recognition. He highlighted MCC's focus on sustainability, innovation, and accessibility, which earned the college citations from respected organizations, including Times Higher Education (THE) Asia, the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI), and THE Impact Rankings.

Closing the program, Regional Director Dr. Raul C. Alvarez, Jr. commended the LUC presidents and representatives for their active participation. He encouraged them to draw inspiration from MCC's achievements, stressing that with strong local government support, visionary leadership, and academic commitment, LUCs in Western Visayas and Negros Island Region can likewise excel on the international stage.

The initiative supports CHED's thrust to strengthen internationalization by enabling higher education institutions to engage globally while remaining rooted in their communities. CHEDRO VI and XVIlI also expressed their appreciation to CHED Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis for her support, and to Atty.

Lily Freida Macabagun-Milla, Director of CHED International Affairs Service, for championing efforts that balance cultural preservation with global engagement.

The event was attended by representatives from several LUCs under the two regional offices. From CHEDRO XVIII - Negros Island Region (NIR), participants included Bacolod City College, Bago City College, La Carlota City College, and Colegio de la Castellana. From CHEDRO VI, participants came from Altavas College, Balete Community College, Batan Integrated College of Technology, Iloilo City Community College, Malay College, and Passi City College.

Credits: The City Smile | via Hannah Joy Nepocpan, CJ Mae Pardorla | photos by Khen Luther Bunda

The event opened with a cultural dance performance by the BCC Dance Enthusiasts, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Central Student Government (CSG) President Christian Lloyd R. Despi, Dr. Ma. Johanna Ann R. Bayoneta, and Mr. Adnan N. Balisi, DrPH(c), PTRP, RGC.

Students from different colleges participated in a booth-making contest that showcased the culture of assigned ASEAN countries.

The College of Education (COEd) featured the colorful culture of Myanmar, while the College of Business and Office Administration (CBOA) presented the heritage and landscapes of Indonesia.

Moreover, the Bachelor of Information Systems (BSIS) Department displayed Thailand's culture of hospitality, and the Bachelor of Industrial Technology (BIT) Department offered a glimpse of Singapore's territory.

The ASEAN celebration reflects a cultural and international understanding across diverse nations, unifying with one another without crossing one's borders.

| via John Gabriel Esmenos

 | photos by Pierce Gide Panisales, Khen Luther Bunda

The celebration began with a flag ceremony in front of the Activity Center led by the Central Student Government, setting the tone for the academic year and bringing back the school spirit among students.

This was followed by the main program inside the Activity Center, where the Dance Enthusiasts energized the crowd with their lively performance.

College Administrator Dr. Ma. Johanna Ann R. Bayoneta gave an opening message encouraging students, especially freshmen, to explore and familiarize themselves with the campus.

Mr. Adnan N. Balisi, DrPH (c), PTRP, MA, Director of Student Affairs and Services, then delivered a special message.Organizations and clubs are featured during the program.

They also set up booths around the campus to introduce themselves and invite students to join, share, and enhance their talents and skills in the different fields.

Ms. Angelica T. Apawan, LPT, MAEd, Adviser of the Central Student Government, concludes the program, emphasizing the spirit of unity for a fruitful academic year."Let's face this year with energy. teamwork, and a smile," Ms. Apawan expressed.

The event not only welcomed students back to campus but also aimed to make them feel at home again, fostering strong bonds and building a solid foundation for another productive academic year.

Credits: The City Smile | Via | Nicole Depiño Photos | Pierce Gide Panisales, Khen Luther Bunda

The BAKURAN nursery showcased a lush collection of 4,297 seedlings collected from the four departments and colleges of the institution, creating a vibrant and eco-friendly green space.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Junalyn C. Libiran, BAKURAN adviser, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the students who willingly contributed seedlings and helped bring her long-envisioned nursery project to life.

"I am just very grateful and hope na nawa ang napakagandang simula na'to ay maipagpatuloy hindi lamang ng BAKURAN members and officers but nang lahat ng mga BBCians," she said.

Roderick Dela Rosa, BAKURAN president, shared the inspiration behind the nursery initiative. "Recently Negros Occidental faced environmental challenges. These are clear manifestations of climate change.

We must no longer turn a blind eye, it is time to act," he stated with conviction.

Dr. Ma. Johanna Ann R. Bayoneta, College Administrator, delivered an environmental message during the ceremony, uttering, "Why does the environment matter? Because we live in it." The program featured a symbolic unveiling and ribbon-cutting, led by Dr. Bayoneta together with the Director of the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS), Sir Adnan N. Balisi, DrPH(c), PTRP, RGC, Central Student Government (CSG) Adviser Ms. Angelica T. Apawan, Dr. Libiran, and Mr. Dela Rosa.

Following the ribbon-cutting, Dr. Bayoneta led the pledge of commitment to the BAKURAN nursery. In unison, BAKURAN officers and members, and various student organizations declared, "Magtatanim ako, hindi lamang ng punla, kundi ng malasakit, disiplina, at pag-asa."

The unveiling ceremony concluded with a nursery walk and the closing remarks delivered by Sir Adnan N. Balisi.

This initiative by BAKURAN reflects BCC's unwavering commitment to a greener Bacolod City and its desire to become a catalyst of change in the environmental community.

Credits: The City Smile | Via John Vincent Semillano | Photos Pierce Gide Panisales