20 July 2026
Office of Extension Services (OES) and the Office of Research Services (ORS) led the University Flag Raising Ceremony marking the opening of classes and the beginning of the first work week for the academic year.
Representing the OES, Angelica L. Aquino welcomed everyone, emphasizing that the weekly flag-raising ceremony is more than a tradition. She highlighted that it serves as a reminder of the University’s shared responsibility to uphold integrity, excellence, accountability, and service while honoring the Philippine flag as the enduring symbol of the nation’s freedom, unity, and sovereignty.
Aquino recalled the significant national and regional observances celebrated throughout July. She noted the 39th Cordillera Month, commemorating the establishment of the Cordillera Administrative Region through Executive Order No. 220 signed on July 15, 1987. This year’s celebration carries the theme, “SMART Cordillera: Enabling Local Enterprises through Digital Transformation and Accelerated Regional Autonomy.”
She also highlighted the celebration of the Nutrition Month, observed every July pursuant to Presidential Decree No. 491 or the Nutrition Act of the Philippines. This year’s campaign bears the theme “Sama-samasaNutrisyongSapat Para sa Lahat,” with the sub-theme “Nutrition at Kalikasan, Atin itongPangalagaan,” encouraging healthy and sustainable lifestyles.
In addition, Aquino acknowledged the observance of Philippine Agriculturists’ Month, established through Proclamation No. 544, recognizing the invaluable contributions of professional agriculturists in advancing agricultural productivity, strengthening food security, promoting innovation, and improving the welfare of farming communities. As a premier institution in agriculture and allied sciences, BSU joins the national celebration in honoring its faculty, researchers, extension workers, students, alumni, and agricultural professionals for their continuing contributions to sustainable agricultural development and nation-building.
Following the opening message, announcements were made by various University offices.
From the University Business Affairs, Menjo P. Felino announced the conduct of the “Biggest Loser 20 Challenge 2026” initial weigh-in scheduled on July 20, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. He encouraged all offices to disseminate the information and advised applicants for the University Sariling Sikap to monitor the UBA’s official Facebook page for updates regarding qualified applicants.
Meanwhile, Jeftee B. Pinos-an of the College of Home Economics and Technology announced activities in support of Nutrition Month, including the University’s Egg Drive, which showcases fresh eggs from the BSU Poultry Project and various egg-based products at the Marketing Center. The initiative aims to support local production while promoting nutritious food choices in the University community.
The Human Resource Management Office (HRMO) also facilitated the oath of office of 13 newly appointed and promoted BSU employees. This was officiated by BSU President Kenneth A. Laruan.
Recognizing excellence in research, Recah L. Ligligon from the Office of the VP for Research and Extension announced the recipients of certificates of recognition for researchers and project leaders who generated research outputs from externally funded projects from January to July 2026. University President Kenneth A. Laruan and the University’s Vice Presidents joined the awarding ceremony in honoring the awardees for their significant contributions to the University’s research productivity.
In his closing remarks, VP for Administration and Finance Richard H. Kinnud announced several important University activities. He informed the BSU community of the scheduled Budget Workshop on July 22–24, 2026, urging all sectors to coordinate with their respective Vice Presidents regarding budget proposals for the University’s 2027 National Expenditure Program and internally generated funds.
He also encouraged faculty and staff to join the University’s Volunteer Core Group, which will support civic engagement and disaster preparedness initiatives. Interested employees were advised to coordinate with the Office of the Vice President for Administration and Finance.
Kinnud likewise announced the upcoming employee sports activities organized by the College of Human Kinetics through the Department of Sports Development. The games are set to begin in August, with championship events to be held during the University’s Foundation Anniversary celebration.
He congratulated the newly promoted and appointed personnel and welcomed students back to campus as classes officially opened on July 20. He also acknowledged the efforts of the Research and Extension Sector in organizing the week’s flag ceremony.
Concluding his message, Kinnud explained that the traditional Science and Research Week celebration has been moved to August and will now be observed as Science, Research, and Innovation Week. He emphasized that innovation does not always mean creating something entirely new but also involves applying existing knowledge and technologies to improve work processes and deliver better services.
The ceremony concluded with a renewed sense of purpose as the BSU community begins the new academic year, inspired to strengthen research, extension, innovation, and public service while remaining committed to the University’s mandate of excellence and sustainable development.//NBSudaypan
