19 May 2026
Benguet State University, through the University Public Affairs Office (UPAO), spearheaded a hybrid Lecture-Workshop on Basic Graphic Design, Canva, and Cinematography at the ICT Hall and via Zoom.
The activity, attended by BSU Information Coordinators and other interested individuals, aimed to enhance the visual communication competencies of BSU employees through training in graphic design principles and the use of Canva. It is also intended to develop participants’ practical skills in creating and updating critical content, including website inputs aligned with the BSU’s institutional standards.
In her written message, VP for Academic Affairs Janet P. Pablo emphasized that the workshop equips participants to turn ideas into visuals that inform, inspire, and connect.
Beyond design skills, Pablo stressed the importance of content substance, noting that Information Coordinators play a vital role in bringing office stories, updates, and achievements that deserve to be known.
She highlighted that the information released by the college is not just a data — it is a reflection of institutional identity that drives local and global visibility.
“By communicating effectively using various platforms, we ensure that the world recognizes the value of what we do, the excellence we uphold, and the impact we create,” Pablo wrote.
UPAO Director Jennyline S. Tabangcura began the session by presenting the historical eras and movements of graphic design. In her presentation, she emphasized the critical role of “white space” in providing visual breathing room. Her discussion also covered considerations in design, such as color theory, semiotics, purpose, harmony, and various technical elements.
UPAO Staff Member Christian Dion De Guzman followed with a discussion on design elements and principles. He also introduced various design tools, including Canva, Microsoft, and Adobe software, and shared a practical guide and visual review of design.
At the end of his presentation, De Guzman showed how AI can assist in the creative process. However, the speakers reminded the participants not to be overly reliant on AI.
“Given all that was said about how AI can be used in graphic design, mas maganda pa rin na aralin natin ang graphic design (It is still better for us to truly learn graphic design),” Tabangcura encouraged. She added that AI cannot push boundaries like humans do but will only regurgitate what is uploaded into it. “If you offload all your thinking to AI, then you’ll get stuck,” she warned.
Following these lectures, Information Officer 1 Prince Jheruel D. Gadang demonstrated the versatility of Canva, guiding participants through its key features and showing how to apply the design elements, principles, and tips discussed.
He encouraged the participants to explore Canva’s features, while they were reminded that good design is a process. According to the speakers, a designer needs to internalize the information, identify its purpose, and carefully plan the layout.
Administrative Assistant II Ellejohn Bawang then tackled the foundations of videography and cinematography, discussing the core exposure triangle, including Aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISO.
Bawang later presented the cinematography composition techniques to enhance storytelling, along with camera movements and post-editing techniques.
Following the lecture series, participants transitioned into hands-on workshops where they applied the tips and concepts learned throughout the day.
To wrap up the activity, ICT Staff Member Julie Ann D. Tabdi conducted a one-on-one session with College of Nursing information coordinator Jonalyn S. Esco on how to navigate the backend of their college’s page in the BSU website.//
