This week’s flag-raising ceremony, hosted by Human Resource (HR) Management Office and HR Development Office, highlighted the launching of Benguet State University’s (BSU) 109th Foundation Anniversary with the theme “Nurturing Roots, Growing Futures: Legacy of Stewardship and Innovation”, and the 125th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary celebration with the theme “Bawat Kawani, Lingkod Bayani: Puso, Dangal, at Galing para sa Bayan.”

The ceremony commenced with a prayer by the Center for Culture and Arts Director Leonardo Samonte in the form of “Uggayam”, a special chant that seeks protection, fertility of the land, forgiveness, recovery, and other needs through singing. This was followed by a “Pitik” with the rice wine, performed by University President Kenneth A. Laruan to seek blessings and give thanks for the prosperity of the Foundation celebration.

Laruan also led the Panunumpa ng Kawani ng Gobyerno and the oath-taking of the newly hired and promoted employees of the university.

To promote well-being, the Supervising Administrative Officer of the Human Resource and Management Office, Raymundo H. Pawid Jr., guided the employees in a short muscle relaxation and a spiritual healing meditation. The meditation helps in removing the negative energies and enhances productivity.

Afterwards, VP for Admin and Finance Richard H. Kinnud and University Public Affairs Office Director Jennyline S. Tabangcura introduced the Project Logo. Kinnud emphasized the need for a unified use of the BSU logo to strengthen the university’s branding and identity. He encouraged everyone to contribute to the effort and join in the branding awareness in the use of the official logo. Tabangcura also shared the importance of a brand guide for maintaining consistency. She reminded everyone that the official logo’s details and symbolism are available at the university’s website at bsu.edu.ph under the BSU Brand Security and Social Media Policy.

General Services Office Director Sheriff La Madrid announced the schedule of activities for the month-long celebration of the university foundation anniversary. LaMadrid is also the overall coordinator of the event. Meanwhile, the details of activities for the 125th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary can also be accessed through the website at csc.gov.ph.

In his closing, VP for Research and Extension Roscinto Ian C. Lumbres applauded the participants and winners of the 2025 Annual Agency In-house Review and encouraged participation in upcoming research events. He concluded by congratulating BSU for reaching its 109th anniversary and urged everyone to commit to their duties as good public servants. “Maging tapat tuwina, sa ating tungkulin paglingkuran lagi, bayang giliw,” he added.

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The Flag Raising Ceremony and the short program that follows it usually consisting of announcements, recognition of student and employee achievements, physical exercises, performances and speeches from guests and university officials is a regular activity of BSU that supports and contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals specifically #Goal3, #Goal4, #Goal8, #Goal10, #Goal16, and #Goal17. In essence, the activity serves as a regular platform to reinforce values, disseminate information, and celebrate achievements.