The Madz Performs at Our Lady of Grace Church, Mabalacat City

I have always been a fan of the Madz, the Philippine Madrigal Singers, since I first saw them during my high school years (early 1990's). I was then studying at Urios College High School in Butuan City when the Madz performed in Butuan City. For lack of a better venue, the concert was held at the St. Joseph Cathedral, Diocese of Butuan. It turned out to be a perfect venue. Looking at the arcade ceilings of our simple church, the Madz founder, the late Prof. Andrea O. Veneracion, remarked: "this is so far our best concert venue. Madrigal performances in Europe are done inside churches."

From then on, I became an avid fan. Before I graduated college (mid 1990's) I saw another Madz performance at the Dimaporo Gymnasium, Mindanao State University, Marawi City. This time, I was able to verify Prof. Veneracion's statement. Their angelic voices echoed well in a cathedral venue than in a wide gymnasium. Nevertheless, they delivered a great performance and the students of MSU asked for an encore, which they gladly gave. But still, the students asked for more. Prof. Veneracion had to pull the hand of the member sitting next to her to lead the group to exit.

Thanks to YouTube, I have followed the Madz in many of its performances in Europe and all over the world. I rejoiced at their triumphs especially in international competitions. I was also saddened about the death of Prof. Andrea O. Veneracion in 2013.

And now, after 20 years, they are here, right at my doorstep! On November 24, 2014, they performed here at Our Lady of Grace Parish, Mabalacat City, Pampanga. And yes, I still enjoy the Madz music. I have reservations, though, with their use of musical instruments, for I have loved them singing a cappella. But I still did have a standing ovation for the group. Thank you for the music.

Singaporean Hindus Commemorates Draupadi's Walk through Fire

Sunday, October 12, 2014 in Singapore. Hindus, in their traditional garb, converged barefoot and waving neem tree branches in front of the fascinating Sri Mariamman Temple along South Bridge Road. They gather to honor Draupadi, a deified character in the epic Mahabharata. Draupadi was said to have walked barefooted across a burning coal to prove her loyalty, fidelity, innocence and sincerity to her husbands (she had four).

The festivity is marked by non-stop revelry of music, chants and dances. Colorful garlands and flowers adorn the giant icon of Draupadi in a chapel within the temple compound. The whole temple complex was richly decorated with colorful garlands and flowers, making the event a grand feast of sounds and sights.

The highlight of the festival is the thimithi, where devotees, young and old, imitate Draupadi's ordeal by walking over the burning coal. The priest begins the ritual by walking across the burning pit with a sacred pot, Karagam, on his head. He is then followed by the devotees. At the end of the ember pit, is a pond of goat's milk where the the participants wade. Then they stain their feet with turmeric.

While the ritual honors a Goddess, only men are allowed to participate. Devotees believe that the act of fire-walking will purify and bless them. It is also widely believed that Draupadi grants the prayers of those who participate in the ritual.

Mrs. Remedios Jocson Joins Mabalacat City College as a Trustee

     Mrs. Remedios T. Jocson joined Mabalacat City College as a member of the Board of Trustees representing the business sector. She took her Oath of Office before the MCC BOT Vice Chairman, Dr. Leonardo C. Canlas on March 7, 2014.

      Mrs. Jocson will represent the business sector at the highest policy-making body of the College. Her long experience as a business woman is expected to help narrow the business-academe mismatch. She is the owner-manager of Jocson Trading, Dau Plaza, Mabalacat City, Pampanga.

MCC Closes the Academic Year 2013-2014 with Ceremonias de Clausura Academica

The graduands showing  their  medals during the Creme de la Creme. They also defaced their College uniforms even before the Graffiti officially started. (Photo: Ricky T. Umlas)

Mabalacat City College (MCC) closed the Academic Year 2013-2014 with a grand repertoire of ceremonial activities dubbed as Ceremonias de Clausura Academica (Clausura) on April 3 and 4, 2014 at the MCC Quadrangle. A sui generis event, the Clausura featured the Baccalaureate Mass, the Hooding Ceremony, Crème de la Crème, Graffiti, the Commencement Exercises and the Seniors’ Departure. The event’s highlight was the Seniors’ Departure where the graduates ran (in suits and heels) out of the College gate.

The Clausura premiered on April 3, 2014 with a Baccalaureate Mass officiated by Rev. Fr. Florentino G. Lavarias, D.D., a proud son of Mabalacat City who is now the Bishop of Iba, Zambales. It was followed by the Hooding Ceremony where the parents donned the graduands with academic hoods symbolizing their entry into professional life.

Then followed the Crème de la Crème, a special ceremony organized to award the members of the Administration, Faculty, Staff and Student body who brought honors to the College. Of special mention was the MCC Sepak Takraw Team who won gold during the 5th National ALCU Games.

The night was capped with the Graffiti, a ceremonial defacement of the graduands’ College uniforms, symbolizing their parting with student life. Dr. Leonardo C. Canlas, the College President, endorsed this practice as he himself had his barong defaced by Mr. Niel P. Rigdao, the President of the College Student Council.

The next day, April 4, 2014, MCC held its 3^rd Commencement Exercises at 5:30 p.m. This year, 451 graduates were installed. Mr. Renz Q. Rosario, BSHRM Magna Cum Laude, in behalf of the batch, delivered the petition for the conferment of their respective degrees. Dr. Leonardo C. Canlas, by virtue of MCC Board of Trustees resolution 1, s. 2014, granted the petition and declared them graduates.

After the recessional march followed the Seniors’ Departure where the new graduates were formally sent off by the academic community at the portals of the Alma Mater. Mayor Marino P. Morales unlocked the gates which symbolized the opening to the world of opportunities for the graduates. Dr. Caridad O. Abuan, the CHED Region III Director, delivered the Admonition  – a heartfelt opinion suggesting to the graduates to make the most of their lives. Vice Mayor Christian D. Halili delivered the Serviam – a sincere assurance to the graduates (now Alumni) of the continued support of the Local Government Unit of Mabalacat City. Then, the graduates left the College with joy. Their parents followed suit. Dr. Leonardo C. Canlas, the College President, officially closed the Academic Year with the sounding of the gong.

While each academic year at MCC closes with a Baccalaureate Mass and Commencement Exercises, these solemn celebrations had evolved into a series of ceremonies. Graffiti was started in 2013. This academic year, the Hooding, Crème de la Crème, and the Seniors’ Departure were added and the program is repackaged as Ceremonias de Clausura Academica.

The Ceremonias de Clausura Academica 2014 is a pet project of Mr. Raymund John D. Vergara, Atty. Robert John I. Donesa and Mr. Eduard D. Ramos. Dr. Leonardo C. Canlas, the College President, fully supported the activities and expressed that he wanted the Clausura to be included in the college heritage resolution.

MCC Installs 451 Graduates

Despite odds, Mr. Judel J. Timpug triumphantly claimed his hard-earned diploma.    

Mabalacat City College, during its 3rd Commencement Exercises, installed 451 graduates who had successfully complied with the rigorous requirements of their respective programs. With the theme, Globally Competitive Leaders-Graduates: the Cornerstone in Nation-Building, the solemn investiture was held at the MCC Quadrangle on April 4, 2014, 5:30 p.m. The event was witnessed by the Mabalacat City officials, the MCC community, and hundreds of proud parents, relatives and friends of the graduates.

This is, so far, the College’s biggest batch of graduates with 122 granted with degrees of Bachelor of Science in Information Technology; 101 with degrees of Bachelor in Secondary Education; 41 with degrees of Bachelor in Elementary Education; 113 with degrees of Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management; 19 with degrees of Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management and 55 with degrees of Associate in Computer Technology.

This year’s commencement speaker is Police Chief Superintendent Rene D. Ong of the Directorate for Police Community Relations, Philippine National Police. He is the first Mabalaqueño to attain the rank of a general at the PNP.

The event was made even more meaningful with the presence of Mayor Marino P. Morales, Vice Mayor Christian D. Halili and the members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Mabalacat City, Pampanga. Per MCC charter, they sit as members the Board of Visitors of the College. They were instrumental for the establishment and continued existence of Mabalacat City College. Also present were Dr. Caridad O. Abuan, CHEDRO3 Director, and the rest of the members of the Board of Trustees.

Leading this year’s batch is Ms. Sarah D. Lusung, BEED, Magna Cum Laude. In behalf of the graduates, she delivered the message of gratitude.

Here is a complete list of the Graduates of the Batch 2014:

I. Bachelor of Elementary Education (area of concentration: General Education)
  
1. Banag, Anjenett C.
2. Banag, Mary Joy B.
3. Bernal, Evelyn Y.
4. Bernardo, Roxanne L.
5. Castillo, Jenalyn Q.
6. De Lara, Angelina V.
7. Dela Cruz, Gerica Mae V.
8. Dela Cruz, Richard D.
9. Dizon, April Joy M.
10. Dizon, Peter Edryne G.
11. Gomez, Jonabell C.
12. Gonzales, Angelica Faye D.
13. Lagman, Mildred N.
14. Limpin, Julie Ann M.
15. Limpin, Rhelin Joy P.
16. Lusung, Sarah D.
17. Magsino, Cielo Grace N.
18. Majan, Jayceca D.
19. Manalo, Ma. Claire Therese C.
20. Mandal, April Joy T.
21. Mendoza, Joanna Niecelle T.
22. Mendoza, Prince Fernan S.
23. Mijares, Charmaine M.
24. Miranda, Sarah V.
25. Morillo, Lalaine M.
26. Pabustan, Mian Abigail D.
27. Pangan, Marje Dyll N.
28. Parillo, Maricel D.
29. Pineda, Dennis D.
30. Rollan, Marielle S.
31. Salcedo, Elyka N.
32. Santos, Michael Roden P.
33. Sawal, Melody T.
34. Tanglao, Eutilia Rose C.
35. Tolentino, Inah Marie S.

II. Bachelor of Elementary Education (major:  Pre – School)

36. Bautista, Renalyn D.
37. Cayanan, Ma. Consuelo M.
38. Datu, April D.
39. Medina, Judith Y.
40. Riboroso, Mikhael I.
41. Sicat, Carmelyn T.

III. Bachelor of Secondary Education (major: Biological Science)

42. Bartido, John Vincent V.
43. Carbungco, April I.
44. Delos Reyes, Edmar B.
45. Garcia, Richard Er Lui D.
46. Guiao, Ma. Dolores O.
47. Jocson, Cindie Lein F.
48. Lampano, Rozelle Mae A.
49. Lim, Rich Paulo S.
50. Madamba, Ann Rachel T.
51. Magat, Liera May G.
52. Manalang, Rea F.
53. Ocampo, Aileen D.
54. Polloso, Maria Kristina B.
55. Rigdao, Neil P.
56. Romero, Mark Lloyd C.
57. Santos, Stefen M.
58. Sicat, Riza Joy F.
59. Uson, Michael John S.
60. Ventura, John Robert D.

IV. Bachelor of Secondary Education (major: English)

61. Arches, Jenesys R.
62. Badato, Sarah S.
63. Bais, Aibee Crissa A.
64. Cabigting, Genesis R.
65. Cauguiran, Diana 
66. David, Micah Ira C.
67. De Leon, Danica V.
68. Dilag, Joseph Arthur Y.
69. Dizon, Jaypee P.
70. Dizon, Kevin Francis S.
71. Espeleta, Mariane T.
72. Gallo Jr., Estelito D.
73. Garcia, Robert Carl J.
74. Lalic, Lyndon M.
75. Madelo, Sharmaine B.
76. Martin, Christina A.
77. Medina, John Leann Roi R.
78. Miclat, John Paulo D.
79. Nabong, Misty Ann C.
80. Nicdao, Angelina C.
81. Pacia, Leilani A.
82. Pantig, Rashid D.
83. Pascual, Regine L.
84. Pineda, Mark Sunday D.
85. Quinsay, Kyle C.
86. Rosario, Allen M.
87. Sangcap, Emilio M.
88. Teopaco, Justine Kyrine R.

V. Bachelor of Secondary Education (major: Filipino)

89. Alforque, Judith O.
90. Cruz, Laurence A.
91. De Jesus, Mark Anthony S.
92. Halili, Michelle L.
93. Manalo, Berlin D.
94. Mataba, Nieva D.
95. Miranda, Anjenette S.
96. Munoz, Michelle G.
97. Ogerio, Katrina Gail F.
98. Paguio, Charmaine R.
99. Panlican, Michael C.
100. Valdez, Allen P.

VI. Bachelor of Secondary Education (major: MAPEH)

101. Baguingay, Mike Lorenz S.
102. Botictic, Jeverey M.
103. Co, Angelyn B.
104. Enaje, Mariel Y.
105. Garcia, Francis E.
106. Lapaz, Jade L.
107. Maramba, Dariel R.
108. Mariano, Alyssa Jane A.
109. Naga, Argie Q.
110. Quijano, Ana Marie C.
111. Ramos, Hanna Lory A.
112. Rollan, Mark Ariel S.
113. Tayag, Mary Rose G.
114. Villanueva, Florence F.

VII. Bachelor of Secondary Education (major: Mathematics)

115. Canlas, Jonathan D.
116. Castro, Mark Anthony D.
117. Cayanan, John A.
118. Celis, Alvin M.
119. De Ocampo, Donabel G.
120. Diaz, Jenny Rose B.
121. Dimla, Arabel T.
122. Garcia, Archimedes Arvie A.
123. Gubantes, Lina Rose P.
124. Halili, Lester P.
125. Lobo, Lurieta L.
126. Mallari, Lloyd F.
127. Mercado, Kristia Mae B.
128. Mina, John Emmanuel S.
129. Natac, Elyka M.
130. Paglinawan, Rachelle N.
131. Pamintuan, Dennis Q.
132. Panganiban, April Joy G.
133. Pantig, Michael C.
134. Pilares, Jose Marie G.
135. Reyes, Jowhie Anne E.
136. Rosauro, Romilyn T.
137. Sangil, Kenji'
138. Sicat, Jacob H.
139. Soratio, Kay-Anne P.
140. Tomas, Nikko R.
141. Turla, Krizha B.
142. Visda, Justin John S.

VIII. Associate in Computer Technology

143. Acosta, Maria Camille Jane L.
144. Aguas, Jeffrey
145. Arpon, Tyron Jay Q.
146. Baldonado, Junmar D.
147. Basilio, Mariziel A.
148. Belardo, Angelica R.
149. Cabatuando, Jemma D.
150. Capili, Jamaica Marcel
151. Catli, Sheena
152. Cauguiran, Chris Jerald
153. Carman, Thasya Jayne D.
154. Concepcion, Johnielyn D.
155. Cunanan, Rosemarie D.
156. David, Calvin John L.
157. Dayrit, Raffy P.
158. De Dios, Francis Allan G.
159. De Leon, Ria Aira A.
160. Dela Cruz, June Tric C.
161. Dungca, Camille G.
162. Dungo, Marc Christian Pol T.
163. Ellar, Patricia C.
164. Estocado, Gil G.
165. Gianan, Grace Ann G.
166. Gomez, Clark R.
167. Improso, Jimboy Q.
168. Jimenez, Jonathan T.
169. Lacsina, Roi L.
170. Lavarias, Nikolai Hans F.
171. Laxa, Krizel Aira T.
172. Lazaro, Michael D.
173. Lim, Jerome D.
174. Lugtu, Mildred
175. Lumanlan, Ace G.
176. Manalac, Alyssa Mae M.
177. Manaloto, Edward Q.
178. Mangune, Krizzia Joi Kamille M.
179. Ocana, Joel C.
180. Olendan, Analyn C. C.
181. Pabustan, Alona R.
182. Pamintuan, Richard E.
183. Pantig Jr., Fernando M.
184. Paran, Ryan
185. Pascua, Jerwin H.
186. Pineda, Julie
187. Pingol, Mark Albert G.
188. Rivera, Katrina Marie S.
189. Robles, Ray Mark F.
190. Sicat, Merwin P.
191. Sunga, Adrian Lee M.
192. Simbulan, John Justo P.
193. Tubon, John Mardee R.
194. Turla, Richard L.
195. Valdez, Edwin Jay J.
196. Valenton, Kathleen D.
197. Wenceslao, Erickson
  
IX. Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
  
198. Alquero, Jamil A.
199. Ano-An, Roselyn Lou M.
200. Aquino, John Michael R.
201. Arellano, Jonathan A.
202. Austria, Jaylo D.
203. Bagunas, Mildred A.
204. Baluyut, Ramil P.
205. Baluyut, Ronnel P.
206. Bamba, Earl Justine O.
207. Banawa, Fermin
208. Bombita, Christine B.
209. Bravo, Erika Jane F.
210. Bulacso, Billy Bryle G.
211. Bulanduz, Aivie M.
212. Cabrera, Gellie Ann V.
213. Calaguas, Christopher P.
214. Calma, Romarlon N.
215. Camon, Joriel B.
216. Cañete, Darwin G.
217. Canlas, Maridol M.
218. Canlas, Zady R.
219. Capulong, Jane Jane M.
220. Catahum, Jemilcan N.
221. Cayanan, Abelardo Benz M.
222. Cayanan, Melvin D.
223. Concepcion, Karessa Lina O.
224. Corpuz, Lester A.
225. Corpuz, Mark Oliver A.
226. Cortez, Adrian T.
227. Cuellar, Kelvin P.
228. David, Brenda C.
229. David, Amila G.
230. David, Erickson D.
231. David, Kim Claudine S.
232. David, Michael Rhua C.
233. Dayrit Jr., Avelardo N.
234. Dela Cruz, Elvin C.
235. Dela Fuente, Marie Jelly D.
236. Dingal, John Kevin Y.
237. Dizon Jr., Antonio G.
238. Dumaya, Faira Mae Vica D.
239. Eligores, Michael C.
240. Facun, Johnrey S.
241. Felix, Eleyna Francesca B.
242. Flores, Bryan M.
243. Galang, Rey Anne P.
244. Galvez, Gio Airvin S.
245. Gamboa, Artwil C.
246. Gamboa, Wilart C.
247. Garcia, Jonadel Reduel S.
248. Gilbuela, Arnel A.
249. Gomez, Cristine M.
250. Gueco, Lysa Betina D.
251. Gueco, Mayben O.
252. Inguillo, Ian D.
253. Layug, Angela P.
254. Lobo, Dexter L.
255. Lobo, John Vincent C.
256. Lumbre, Eva Gracia F.
257. Luzung, Ria Kathrina C.
258. Madriaga, Jay-B M.
259. Magsino, Cez Girlie N.
260. Mañalac, Karen D.
261. Manalili, Christian B.
262. Mandal, Marica Fatima M.
263. Maniego, Jessie Jr. C.
264. Manipon, Chimuel V.
265. Marculeta, Geraldine P.
266. Masim, Jessica B.
267. Mendoza, Gerard B.
268. Mercado, Noemi N.
269. Moscoso, Marvin G.
270. Munoz Jr., Danilo S.
271. Navarro, Harold Ian T.
272. Nolasco, Jonalyn Z.
273. Olivo, John Nerson C.
274. Oray, Mary Rose D.
275. Paa, Jennica E.
276. Pangan, Christopher John Lloyd  D.
277. Pangan, Gladys C.
278. Panganiban, Alexis D.
279. Pangilinan, Rollie M.
280. Panlilio, Jomar M.
281. Pare, Tristan C.
282. Puno, Jennielyn B.
283. Punsalan, Francesca Lucia T.
284. Quiambao, Jelly A.
285. Quito, James Matthew M.
286. Quizon, Jayson R.
287. Rabino, Arlene S.
288. Reyes, Edking M.
289. Rivera, Michael D.
290. Romero, Jayson S.
291. Romero, Jovelyn N.
292. Rosario, Rhommel Q.
293. Salas, Aldrine C.
294. Sampang, Ralph Darren J.
295. Sanchez, James Abram S.
296. Sandig, April Lyn F.
297. Santos, Jemuel G.
298. Santos, Jomar C.
299. Santos, Warren Q.
300. Sarmiento, Ivan Jo T.
301. Sarmiento, Jonathan David G.
302. Sibal, Aziel R.
303. Soriano, Rowell S.
304. Tayag, Cindy P.
305. Tolingan, Myron Jay C.
306. Torres, Christian Jasper M.
307. Tuazon, Elaine Joy J.
308. Tuquilar, Katrina V.
309. Turla  Jr., Leonilo L.
310. Umlas, Ricky T.
311. Viado, Israel Jacob P.
312. Victorio, Almond A.
313. Vigilante, Sarah Joy P.
314. Villanueva, Kevin S.
315. Villena, Louie B.
316. Waje, Ana May H.
317. Yangco, Camella Antoniette E.
318. Yusi, Kristian M.
319. Yuzon, Agustin Edmin S. 

X. Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management
  
320. Acordon, Jonet C.
321. Alabado, Jenny E.
322. Along, Jovelyn T.
323. Alvarado, Mary Jane A.
324. Angeles, Lady Mae E.
325. Anunciacion, Melody T.
326. Arce, John Rhey P.
327. Arcilla, Jesica Rose S.
328. Bagani, Joel B.
329. Bautista, Roansen M.
330. Bergonio, Leylani G.
331. Besabe, Maria Carla A. 
332. Bingcang, Frances Clovelle M. 
333. Bolaton, Jessielyn N.
334. Bondoc, Ariane P.
335. Briones, Jemayca A.
336. Bundalian, Algie D.
337. Cabana, Vanesa S.
338. Cabrera, Mary Ann M.
339. Caisip, Angie C.
340. Calaguas, Marinel R.
341. Canlas, Mark Kennen G.
342. Canlas, Norberto G.
343. Canoza, Angelito E.
344. Capacio, Anna Lou M.
345. Carlos, Crissa H.
346. Castro, Reiner D.
347. Chica, Renz Marion P.
348. Cortez, Darwin N.
349. Cortez, Evy Lyn R.
350. David, Herdie C. 
351. Dayrit, Mark G.
352. De Jesus, Carlo C.
353. De Leon, Kathleen Alyssa D.
354. Dela Cruz, Reynald T.
355. Dela Fuente, Jennylyn D.
356. Delos Reyes, Anna Joyce M.
357. Demeterio, Julie Ann B.
358. Dizon, Bryn Carlo D.
359. Dizon, Florlyn Mae C.
360. Dizon, Jessa Mae S.
361. Domingo, Regelyn D.
362. Dumip-ig, Mitchie T.
363. Espiritu, Jonis D.
364. Estanislao, Cathleen T.
365. Gamana, Glennalyn L.
366. Garcia, Janine Anne N.
367. Garcia, Lester G.
368. Garcia, Lou Wella P.
369. Garcia, Maybell S.
370. Generalao, Charlene T.
371. Gomez, Jholi R.
372. Gomez, Carla Yvette L.
373. Grey, Kimberly S.
374. Gutierrez, Frances Diane D.
375. Hipolito, Geremie M.
376. Ilumin, Daniel M.
377. Ines, Danielle Kristine D.
378. Lacsina, Ralph Louis N.
379. Lacsina, Rowena L.
380  Liwag, Rizza B. 
381. Llames, Juvy C.
382. Lopez, Eunice R.
383. Lopez, Ryan A.
384. Macaspac, Raineer Jon L.
385. Madayag, Katherine Joy P.
386. Malig, jhelmero B.
387 Manabat, Eric R.
388. Manarang, Aldrin A.
389. Mariano, Joseph D.
390. Mariano, Sunshine O.
391. Masiclat, Aljon C.
392. Mendoza, Anthony
393. Miranda, Eloisa B.
394. Narciso, Christian Frederick A.
395. Nuqui, John Lender S.
396. Obillo, Jan Paolo A.
397. Oblea, Rosalyn S.
398. Padiernos, Maria Olive Gay A.
399.  Padiernos, Maria Emiliana Francesca A.
400. Pamindanan, Thrizzie Joyce G.
401. Panhon, Andrew A.
402. Penamante, Charmaine F.
403. Perit, Beverly
404. Quiambao, Hazel A.
405. Quiambao, Princess Deanna M.
406. Razon, Geleen Aizza H.
407. Regala, John Oliver G.
408. Reyes, Ariel D.
409. Reyes, Ma. Cristina D.
410. Rivera, Donald S.
411. Rodriguez, Mhikee Sharlyn T.
412. Ronquillo, Precious V. 
413. Ronquillo, Roan Kristianne L.
414. Rosario, Renz Q.
415. Salunga, Jerome P.
416. Santos, Archie C.
417. Santos, Arlon F.
418. Sibal, Dexter C. 
419. Sigua, Aikatherine A.
420. Soliman, Glaiza Grace R.
421. Solmia, Ednelyn S.
422. Suarez, Michael P.
423. Suyat, Mae Joy P.
424. Tapic, Adrian C.
425. Terante, Ricky O.
426. Tiglao, Krisha Katrina B.
427. Timpug, Judel J.
428. Tuazon, Mariz B.
429. Villar, Jamaica Z.
430. Villegas, Marlo P.
431. Vital, Carlo Joseph B.
432. Yalung, Janela Mae C.

XI. Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management

433. Adi, Alyssa Joy M.
434. Aguilar, Camille G.
435. Babadilla, Janica M.
436. Boyonas, Kimberly M.
437. Camoral, Elvie H.
438. David, Kimberly W.
439. David, Shantal Ivy L.
440. Dimalanta, Apple M.
441. Francisco, Danica Ann O.
442. Gianan, Sharmane G.
443. Gonzales, Realyn
444. Lumberio, Ahmil C.
445. Lusung, Dyan G.
446. Masiclat, Precious Joy C.
447. Quiambao, Leverlee Mae N.
448. Ramos, Fatima B.
449. Tanglao, Marielle B.
450. Tunog, Karen C.
451. Villaruz, Kevin P.

CHED Evaluates the Political Science Program of Mount Carmel College, Baler, Aurora

The Commission on Higher Education Region III Regional Quality Assurance Team in the field of Humanities, Social Sciences and Communications (RQAT) headed by Ms. Lora L. Yusi evaluated the Bachelor of Arts in Political Science program offering of Mount Carmel College, Baler, Aurora last January 29-30, 2014.

Atty. Robert John I. Donesa, member of RQAT, inspected the College vis-à-vis CHED Memorandum Order 31 s. 2011. The team inspected the College in the areas of curriculum, program administration, faculty, library, facilities and equipment, student support services, admission and retention policies, among others.

The Executive Vice President, Fr. Andres A. Lumasac, College Affairs Officer, Dr. Rowel G. Olila, the Program Dean, Mr. Mariano A. Quiñones, and the HRD officer, Ms. Ameurpina DL. Costa, accommodated the evaluators.

The RQAT strongly recommended that the College should hire a full-time professional librarian and a full-time professional Guidance Counselor. Both should have a Master’s degree in their respective fields. Other than these recommendations, the College generally complied with the requirements of the program. 

MCC Opens the A.Y. 2013-2014 with Ceremonias de Apertura Academica

The MCC Administration with the CHED Regional Director Dr. Virginia D. Akiate at the portals of the College awaiting the grand entrance of the freshmen. 

Mabalacat City College opened the Academic Year with festive Ceremonias de Apertura Academica (Apertura) on July 5, 2013 at 5:30 p.m. The Apertura is a repertoire of ceremonial activities geared at formally opening the Academic Year. It includes, among others, the Freshmen Walk, Misa Apertura, Lector Apertura and the Freshmen Night.

During the Freshmen Walk, the newly matriculated students were formally welcomed by Mayor Marino P. Morales and the whole Academic Community at the portals the Alma Mater. To open the gate, the Mayor ceremonially broke the chains which also symbolize poverty and ignorance. A freshman representative made an enquiry to formally petition for their reception to MCC community. Dr. Leonardo C. Canlas granted their admission. Then, the freshmen entered the campus with glee. The other students cheerfully met them.

Then followed the Misa Apertura. This year, the mass included the Blessing of Fire and Lumina Pandit where the faithfuls lighted candles and renewed their commitments. After the mass, a program to introduce the members of the Board of Trustees, Board of Visitors, Administration, Faculty and Staff followed. During the program, Mrs. Rowena Macapagal, ITE faculty, was recognized as this year’s awardee of the coveted Lector Magnificus Award. This award is given to any member of the Administration, Faculty or Staff who published an outstanding research relevant to their fields of expertise.

The day was capped with a Freshmen Night. The event is a grand party where freshmen from the different Institutes show off their talents. The party’s guest of honor was the dashing Brian Poe Llamansares, a young model and son of Senator Grace Poe Llamansares. He did not only mesmerize the crowd with his charm, he also impressed us with his wit and dance moves.

While each academic year at MCC opened with a Mass of the Holy Spirit, this simple celebration had evolved into a series of ceremonies. Lumina Pandit and Lector Apertura were added in 2012. This academic year, the Freshmen Walk and Freshmen Night were added and the program was repackaged as Ceremonias de Apertura Academica.

          The Ceremonias de Apertura Academica 2013 is a brainchild of Mr. Raymund John D. Vergara, Atty. Robert John I. Donesa and the MCC Supreme Student Council. Its execution was under the able direction of Mr. Eduard D. Ramos. On July 13, 2013, the Board of Trustees, through resolution 26, s. 2013, included the Apertura as one of the college's heritage activities.

MCC-IBE Holds Business Conference 2014

The Mabalacat City College Institute of Business Education (MCC-IBE) held its Business Conference 2014 at Shanghai Palace, Balibago, Angeles City. The Conference gathered together students and faculty members of the Customs Administration and Accountancy programs of the Institute.

Atty. Robert John I. Donesa, MCC-IBE business law instructor, in his opening remarks, inspired the students by sharing his personal journey to becoming a lawyer. He believed that passing any board examination entails long term preparation and it should start during the freshmen year. He challenged the students to focus and start preparing for their future careers.

          This year’s guest speakers were Dr. Albert G. Morales, CPA and Dean Leah S. Antineo, LCB. They are the distinguished personification of the Public Accountant and  Customs Broker professions. Dr. Morales is the current executive secretary of Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants – Angeles City while Dean Antineo is the current Vice President for Subic and Clark Operations of the Professional Customs Broker's Association of the Philippines Inc.

The participants. (Photo: Glenn L. Remoquillo)

Dr. Albert G. Morales, CPA presented a paper entitled “The Accounting Profession in 2016 and Beyond.”He gave a general orientation on the accounting profession and the academic preparation to becoming one. He also encouraged the students to always give their best in their studies. “Always aim to top the CPA Boards. So that if you fail to top, you will at least pass!” he emphasized.

Mrs. Leah S. Antineo, LCB, on the other hand presented a paper entitled “The Customs Brokers Profession and Code of Ethics.” Her 31 solid years of experience in the brokerage business made her a good resource for anecdotes in the practice of customs broker’s profession. She encouraged the future customs brokers to hold on to what is ethical despite the allegations of corruption that besieged the brokerage profession and the Bureau of Customs.

In general, the conference was a success. Dr. Eriberta T. Maglaqui, the Vice President for Academic Affairs, graced the conference. She was joined by Mrs. Rebecca Q. Lising, Faculty Club President and Mr. Glenn L. Remoquillo, MCC-IBE customs administration instructor. Ms. Cherry Ann N. de Ausen and Mr. Rex Q. Pabalan served as masters of ceremonies. The registered participants totaled to 145.

          Congratulations to the MCC-IBE, headed by Dean Reynaldo L. Laxamana, for a successful Business Conference 2014. 

Dean Reynaldo L. Laxamana and Mr. Glenn L. Remoquillo with guest speaker Dean Leah S. Antineo  (Photo: Glenn L. Remoquillo)

MCC College Days Opens with Pomp

The MCC Days 2014 opens with a Holy Mass officiated by the revered Archbishop Paciano B. Aniceto.

     The thought of studying in a local college does not seem to deter the students of Mabalacat City College (MCC) from celebrating the college days with pomp. On February 5 to 8, 2014, MCC celebrated its College Days with a fabulous repertoire of competitions, pageantry and a concert. 

     On February 5, 2014, the College Days, opened with a Holy Mass officiated by no less than the Most Reverend Paciano B. Aniceto, D.D., Archbishop of San Fernando, Pampanga. During the mass, Apo Ceto, congratulated Mabalacat City and its officials for the successful conversion the town into a city - Pampanga's third. In his thanksgiving message, the elated College President, Dr. Leonardo C. Canlas, praised the members of the Administration, Faculty, Staff and Student body for upholding a culture of excellence which had become a habit in the College.

   After the mass, the recognition of the September 2013 passers of the Licensure Examinations for Teachers (LET) followed. The successful alumni, now professional teachers, enjoyed their homecoming. They stayed to cheer for their former home Institutes in the subsequent competitions.

     Mrs. Amelia Z. Macapagal, the Vice President for Student Affairs and Services formally announced the opening of the College Days. Mr. John Lymon Pacia, the Supreme Student Council External Vice President, led the pledge of Sportsmanship. Mayor Marino P. Morales formally opened the Sports Competition by leading the ceremonial ball tossing.

     The highlight of the night was the hotly contested Cheerdance Competition which literally made the crowd roared in excitement. Each highly competitive Institute representatives wowed their fans with their feisty, and no-holds-barred dances and stunts. The Institute of Business Education (IBE) ruled the night with their fabulous military-inspired nei plus ultra cheerdance. The Institute of Teacher Education (ITE) came second with their unique Avatar-inspired cheerdance. The Institute of Computing Studies came third. The chair of Board of Judges, Mr. Jun Magbalot, was so happy with the competition that he pledged additional cash prizes for all the contestants.

     Congratulations to the MCC Supreme Student Council headed by Mr. Niel P. Rigdao and advised by Mr. Raymund John D. Vergara for a successful College Days 2014.

Ms. MCC 2014, Tine Caranay, and her escort, Mr. MCC 2014 Enzo B. Policarpio

LET Passers from Mabalacat City College

     The January 2014 Licensure Examinations for Teachers yields  another batch of teachers coming from Mabalacat City College. The College posted passing rates higher than the national passing rate. For the Elementary Level, MCC posted a 65.38% passing rate while the national passing rate is only 28.98%. For Secondary Level, MCC posted a 33.33% passing rate while the national passing rate is only 28.41%. 

    

     Congratulations to MCC Alumni who passed the January 2014 Licensure Examinations for Teachers!

Elementary Level

430 Alconcel, Julie Anne Galzote

3831 Dizon, Danica Hipolito

4809 Garcia, Jenny Marie Estardo

5174 Gundayao, Jennifer Garcia

5671 Jimenez, Sherlyn Lopez

6296 Lozano, Jezelle Camille Rivera

6769 Manese, Irish Lusterio

7555 Narciso, Erika Janine Garcia

7698 Nucum, Angelie Marie Cruz

7743 Ocampo, Joyce Ann Sibal

8196 Pangan, Justine Co

8292 Pare, Darwin Jay Tayag

8293 Pare, Paul John Gomez

9983 Socrates, Maica Davis

10426 Tiamzon, Joven Valencia

10523 Tongol, Princess Karla de Guzman

10633 Tungol, Marie Joy Nicolas

Secondary Level

1324 Balagtas, Albert Caligagan

2875 Castro, Jocelyn Manapat

9167 Pineda, Menzi Gomez

11855 Viray, Al Kevin Canlas

11756 Villanueva, Arvin Gania

Archbishop Aniceto Ordains Rev. Fr. Romer O. Tubu Priest

Fr. Romer prostrated  before the altar as the prayers of the Litany invoke the intercession of all the Saints to send down the Holy Spirit upon him.  (Photo credit: Ms. Irene Christy M. Bacolod)

   
     On February 27, 2014, 2:30 p.m., Most Reverend Paciano B. Aniceto, D.D., Archbishop of San Fernando, Pampanga ordained Rev. Fr. Romer O. Tubu as a new priest at Sto. Tomas Parish Church, Sto. Tomas, Pampanga. The Mass of Ordination was witnessed by the joyous faithfuls of Sto. Tomas, Pampanga who waited for 47 years for their parish to produce another priest. Fr. Romer's family, co-priests, friends, former teachers and classmates, and well-wishers from all over Pampanga also came to witness the event.

     Emotions flow when the parents of Fr. Romer assisted him as he changed his garment from that of a deacon to a full-pledged priest. In his speech, he inspired the crowd by a narration of his journey as a young boy who was always assigned as the keeper of keys since his elementary years. Now, he is a shepherd of souls. Before his ordination, Fr, Tubu served as the secretary to the Archbishop of San Fernando, Pampanga, Most Reverend Paciano B. Aniceto, D.D.. He will celebrate his first thanksgiving mass on March 1, 2014, 7:00 am at his home parish, Sto. Tomas Parish Church, Sto. Tomas, Pampanga.

     Well-wishers from Mabalacat City College (MCC) attended the Mass of Ordination. They are Raymund John D. Vergara, Franz Lawrence C. Senapilo, Eduard D. Ramos, Robert John I. Donesa, Romeo Ligutan, Jr. and Irene Christy M. Bacolod. Fr. Tubu, at one time, attended an MCC College Days mass with the Archbishop.

The most moving part was when Fr. Romer removed his deacon's stole and was presented with a priestly stole and chasuble. His mother sobbed in his embrace. (Photo: Ms. Irene Christy M. Bacolod)

Well-wishers from Mabalacat City College. (Photo: Ms. Irene Christy M. Bacolod)

Fr. Romer at Mabalacat City College. One of his last days as a deacon. (Photo: Mr. Michael T. Villanueva)