The HERO Group is a civil society organization that focuses on four main areas: health, education, livelihood, and sustainability. The group operates in 12 provinces and implements programs that support individuals on the spectrum, helping them develop skills and transition to livelihood opportunities.

The meeting was attended by IRO Director Rex John G. Bawang, HERO Group Founders and CEO Lormie Garay and Rod Eric Garay, IRO Deputy Director Doreen Allasiw, IRO Coordinator Decimam Carantes, and IRO staff Racquel Fatog.

During the discussion, both sides explored emerging technologies and how these can support more sustainable, inclusive, and accessible programs. These efforts aim to help the University provide services that respond to the needs of its diverse academic community, including persons with disabilities and individuals with special needs.

They also shared ideas on assistive technologies, knowledge exchange, and possible joint initiatives that can benefit both students and communities. The meeting opened opportunities for future partnerships, including projects, trainings, and community-based programs.

This initiative supports the University’s goals in innovation, internationalization, and inclusive development by building collaborations that connect education, innovation, and social responsibility, while promoting sustainable and inclusive growth.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #HERO, #BSUstainable […]

👩‍🎓 Who can apply?Students aged 17–18 who are preparing for university and want to build confidence, independence, and a global perspective.

📍 When & Where:🗓 10–28 August 2026📌 Huelva, Spain — near the Atlantic coast, close to Seville and Portugal

💡 Programme Highlights:✔️ Academic sessions and university preparation✔️ 45-hour Spanish language course (no prior knowledge required)✔️ Full-board accommodation on campus✔️ Cultural visits, social, and sports activities✔️ Certificate of completion

🌍 What you’ll gain:Participants will develop essential university skills such as critical thinking, communication, and independent learning—while experiencing student life in a supportive international environment.

💰 Programme Fee: €1,730(Includes accommodation, meals, classes, and activities; excludes travel, personal expenses, and insurance)

📌 Application Timeline & Reminders:✔️ Pre-register by 15 May 2026✔️ Complete enrollment by 30 May 2026

⚠️ Important Notice:Applicants are advised not to arrange or purchase travel (flights, transfers, etc.) until they receive formal confirmation after pre-registration, indicating they may proceed with full enrollment.

More detail on the program and the application procedure can be accessed at their website at: https://uhu.es/english/experience-uhu-pre-university-summer-programme

#CallforApplications, #StudyInSpain, #ScholarshipCorner […]

Based in Jakarta, fellows will work closely with ERIA researchers and the ASEAN Secretariat, contributing to policy research, regional dialogue, and community-building across Southeast and East Asia.

🔍 Who can apply?✔️ Candidates must:✔️ Hold a doctoral degree or higher (for academic applicants), or have at least 10 years of experience as a government official (for professionals).✔️ Demonstrate proficiency in written and spoken English.✔️ Be open to any nationality, with research interests focused on regional issues in ASEAN and East Asia.✔️ Have policy-relevant experience or knowledge in government, academia, think tanks, international organizations, or similar institutions.

📅 Fellowship Duration:3 to 11 months (October 2026 – August 2027)

💡 What to expect?

Conduct policy-relevant research and publish a policy paper

Engage with regional experts, policymakers, and institutions

Participate in presentations, discussions, and ERIA programs

Receive an allowance of up to USD 5,000 per month (pro-rated)

📌 Application Deadline: 14 May 2026

🌏 Read more details at: Call-for-Applicants_ERIA-School-of-Government-Fellowship-Batch2

#CallforApplications, #StudyAbroad, #ScholarshipsCorner […]

Indigenous Healing as Silenced in Health Discourses and its Privileges Along the Cultural Assertions of Indigenous Peoples in Northern Luzon, Philippinesby Christine Grace B. Sidchogan-Lazaro, DCOMM

Ms. Christine Grace B. Sidchogan-Lazaro, DCOMM, is a faculty member from the Benguet State University-College of Information Sciences, Department of Development Communication

𝐀𝐛𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭:In health discourses, Indigenous Healing is marginalized by the State itself, specifically coming from the Biomedicine health workers who would always uphold Biomedicine and stay silent towards indigenous healing. Silencing is also found in the information drives of health agencies, which positions indigenous healing as unfounded. The lack of concrete policies supporting indigenous healing further puts Biomedicine in a power-holding position and putting other health systems as merely “alternatives”.Despite this vulnerability of Indigenous Peoples (IPs) to systematically driven, hegemonic agendas, indigenous is thriving in the cultural assertions of IPs as they sustainably validate their values and cultural integrity. Their self-determination is manifested in their capacity to choose indigenous healing as the first option when met with health concerns. To ensure that indigenous healing science is innovated on and sustained, these are institutionalized in larger cultural practices. Indigenous healing is likewise privileged in environmental conservation practices of IPs. The environment is the space of healing if conserved. In the spirit of multiculturalism, where various cultures are accommodated, it becomes essential to assert that humans and their cultures do not exist in isolation. Diversity should be embraced, differences should be accepted and understood. Discursive spaces espousing pluriversal epistemologies or multiple knowledges encapsulated in the concepts and practices of IPs should be upheld and sustained.

We hope you will explore the key findings of this work and share or cite it to spread knowledge and insights to the wider academic community.

You can find the full publication here: https://www.irjms.com/journal/indigenous-healing-as-silenced-in-health-discourses-and-its-privileges-along-the-cultural-assertions-of-indigenous-peoples-in-northern-luzon-philippines/

#BenguetStateUniversity, #PublicationAlert, #ResearchCorner […]

✨ Scholarship Benefits:✔️ 25% tuition discount for Undergraduate programs (1st year)✔️ 30% tuition discount for Master’s programs

📚 Available Programs Include:

International Relations

Economics and International Business

Business Administration & Management

Applied Modern Languages

Business Communication & Digital Media

MBA and Global Management

And more!

📅 Deadline: July 1, 2026🌏 Open to Filipino students (in the Philippines or abroad) and Southeast Asian residents.

Take this opportunity to study in Spain and gain global experience!

Additional Information about the scholarship program can be accessed here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xLrH1X7WcACThOdTq8Bmvv9IVDe3BsRM/view?usp=sharing

Check their website at: https://www.nebrija.com/becas/becas-alumnos-internacionales/

#CallforApplications, #StudyAbroad, #ScholarshipsCorner […]

From 2023 to 2024, the collaboration came to life through the Transdisciplinary Intercultural International Partnership (TIIP) Program, enabling BSU faculty and students to take part in international exchanges, assemblies, and collaborative meetings. Primarily supported through EHL funding and supplemented by BSU, these activities enhanced intercultural academic engagement and strengthened shared scholarly perspectives on social work and global challenges. Notable components of this collaboration included institutional leadership visits, participation in the TIIP Annual Assembly, and BSU’s hosting of the MISOTRANS Network Meeting in September 2024.

A significant milestone followed on April 20–24, 2026, when BSU President Kenneth A. Laruan and College of Agriculture Dean Constantino T. Sudaypan represented the university at the 2026 International Assembly of EHL and its partners, held under the theme “Social Work, Human Rights, and the Rights of Nature.” During this gathering, President Laruan and EHL Rector Prof. Dr. Andrea Dietzsch signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding, reaffirming a partnership rooted in shared academic goals and a commitment to people, communities, and the planet. The partnership between BSU and EHL was approved through BOR Res. No. 412 s. 2025.

📸Prof. Melinda Madew

#BenguetStateUniversity, #EHL, #PartnershipsCorner […]

More than just a food showcase, the activity served as the students’ final examination for their courses in International Cuisine and Introduction to Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions. It provided them with the opportunity to apply their knowledge in planning, organizing, and executing a large-scale event.

The fair featured booths inspired by different countries, each designed to reflect its assigned culture. From flags to traditional outfits, every detail added to the immersive experience. The booths featured a wide selection of dishes representing France, Thailand, the Middle East, the Caribbean, the Philippines, Mexico, South America, and Italy, each offering a taste of global flavors in one venue.

The Food Booths officially opened through a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the start of the two-day culinary showcase. Students took on various roles, from food preparation to booth management, demonstrating teamwork and professionalism throughout the event. Adding depth to the experience, Mr. Gerry Gabertan, co-founder of Nori Sake Sushi and Chill, was invited as a guest speaker. He shared his journey in building a local business that offers international cuisine, along with insights and lessons that inspired students to pursue innovation and excellence in the field.

At the same time, on April 29, second-year students from the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics also conducted their Global Entrepreneurial Food Fair, a Mini Food Fair featuring a delicious mix of native and international cuisines at the BSU Marketing Center parking lot. The activity also served as the culmination and final examination for their subject, Native and Foreign Cookery.

The mini fair featured an outfit showcase and creatively prepared food booths representing different countries, including Japan, South Korea, Thailand, China, Australia, and the British Aisle. Students presented a mix of native and international cuisines, showing their skills in food preparation and presentation while highlighting cultural diversity.

These events also drew a lively crowd, gathering students, BSU staff and faculty, and even members of the local community, all coming together to experience and enjoy the diverse food prepared by the students. The series of food fairs reflected the students’ hard work and dedication, showing how classroom learning can be applied in real-life settings. Through these activities, students developed their culinary and organizational skills while also building confidence and teamwork in both culinary arts and event management. The event creates a meaningful impact by promoting cultural appreciation among attendees and celebrating the richness of global cultures through food. It also supported student-led initiatives that connect the university with the wider community.

(Song used in the video: Nowhere Fast by Neptune)

#BenguetStateUniversity, #FoodFair, #InternationalCuisine […]

The group was warmly received by University President Kenneth A. Laruan, alongside IRO Director Rex John G. Bawang, and American English alumni from the Department of English, College of Arts and Humanities, who have actively participated in the Regional English Language Office (RELO) programs. Among the participating alumni were Samuel S. Poliden, Ronda B. Tullay, Joseph B. Quinto, Kara S. Panolong, and Julienne C. Cariño.

The visit provided an opportunity to introduce RELO programs and share experiences from past activities. It also opened discussions on possible partnerships, with the goal of strengthening collaboration in English language teaching, training, and other related initiatives.

With pictures courtesy of UPAO.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #RELO, #SDG17PartnershipsfortheGoals, #SDG4QualityEducation […]

The meeting aimed to strengthen the relationship between Benguet State University and the Municipality of Yona, Guam. Both sides explored possible partnerships through joint projects, cultural exchanges, and other activities, with plans to establish a Memorandum of Understanding.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #PartnershipsCorner, #SDG17PartnershipsForTheGoals […]

“Impact of rice husk derived biochar pyrolysis temperature on food waste anaerobic digestion”by Marvin T. Valentin, Katarzyna Ewa Kosiorowska, Agata Siedlecka, Kacper Świechowski, Paweł Lochyński, Marzena Domińska, Kamila Hamal, Vitalii Demeshkant, Paweł Wiercik, Andrzej Białowiec

Mr. Marvin T. Valentin, is a faculty member from the BSU-College of Engineering and an assistant to the BSU Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs

Abstract:

This study investigated the influence of rice husk biochar (RHBC) prepared at 300, 500, 700, and 900 °C (BC300, BC500, BC700, and BC900) on the anaerobic digestion (AD) of food waste. The properties of RHBC related to AD, including high heating value, specific surface, porosity, elemental mapping through scanning electron microscopy – energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), thermal decomposition, electrical conductivity (EC), elemental composition, functional groups, and mcrA gene copy numbers, were investigated. The specific surface area and mcrA gene copy numbers are listed as a property of the RHBC relating to AD. Parameters investigated during the AD process were biomethane potential, biomethane production rate, biodegradability, variation in the total volatile fatty acids, specific volatile fatty acids, pH, EC, and chemical oxygen demand, functional groups, changes in the nitrite, nitrate, ammonia, and nitrogen concentration. The study show that increase in the pyrolysis temperature (300 to 900 °C) resulted to the devolatilization and heteroatom removal in the RHBCs, resulting in decreased concentrations of H, N, and S, while the C content was relatively consistent across pyrolysis temperatures (38.09% to 39.62%). The reactors dopped with BC300 had the highest cumulative BMP at 335.76 mL/g-VS followed by BC500, BC700, and BC900 at 325.63, 316.76, and 311.36 mL/g-VS, respectively. These findings suggest that, compared to highly carbonized biochars made at higher temperatures, lower-temperature biochars, which retain more functional groups and labile components, offer better conditions for the production of biomethane.

This research was funded by the Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences under the Innovative grant with Agreement No. N0N00000/0241/41/2023

We hope you will explore the key findings of this work and share or cite it to spread knowledge and insights to the wider academic community.

You can find the full publication here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0961953426003740?via%3Dihub

#BenguetStateUniversity, #PublicationAlert, #ResearchCorner […]

The event has gathered 116 participants from 42 countries and higher education institutions (HEIs), creating a vibrant platform for academic exchange and global collaboration.

As the International Staff Teaching Week continues, participants are engaging in a range of academic and cultural activities. These include institutional presentations, lectures by visiting professors, and professional development sessions for staff. They are also taking part in socio-cultural events that provide opportunities to experience Lithuanian culture, build international networks, exchange best practices, and strengthen cooperation between their home institutions and Vytautas Magnus University.

This ongoing participation reflects BSU’s commitment to internationalization by enhancing global competencies, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and promoting collaborative learning within its academic community.

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, this initiative supports #SDG4QualityEducation and #SDG17partnershipsforthegoals by promoting inclusive learning opportunities and strengthening international academic cooperation.

📷Alexander Killip Jr.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #VMU, #InternationalStaffMobility […]

The event was graced by Sir Stanley Anongos, Dean of the College of Social Sciences; Sir Rex John Bawang, Director of the International Relations Office; Sir Jude Tayaben, Director of the Gender and Development Office; Sir Roscinto Ian Lumbres, Vice President for Research and Extension; Ma’am Gigy G. Banes, Project Leader of OPAPRU SIPAT IKS Project 4, and the course facilitator. Also in attendance were teachers from DepEd-Benguet and DepEd-Baguio, faculty members from the College of Social Sciences and National University- Manila, and students from various degree programs and Benguet National High School, all gathered in support of cultural appreciation and academic engagement.

The intercultural exchange featured vibrant presentations of indigenous songs, dances, and foods representing the six provinces of Cordillera. These were prepared and performed by third-year students from the BS Nutrition and Dietetics and BS Food Technology programs as part of their course ‘Cordillera: History and Socio-Cultural Heritage (CORDI 101).’ Each group highlighted unique cultural practices, offering the audience a deeper understanding of the region’s rich and diverse heritage. The display of traditional cuisine emphasized the connection between food, identity, and community life.

In the afternoon, participants engaged in indigenous games. The students took part in activities such as the kadang-kadang, tug of war, arm wrestling, and sack race, fostering camaraderie and shared appreciation for traditional forms of recreation that have long been part of community life.

The activity aimed to encourage and educate younger generations about the importance of cultural identity by immersing them in an actual and experiential learning environment. Through active participation, attendees were able to not only observe but also practice and appreciate these cultural traditions. In her closing remarks, Ma’am Kristine Dela Cruz challenged the participants to “become ambassadors of these cultural identities outside BSU,” noting the role of the students in preserving and promoting cultural heritage beyond the university setting. //R. Batalier, IRO BAEL Intern

#BenguetStateUniversity, #InterculturalExchange, #SDG11SustainableCitiesandCommunities, #SDG4QualityEducation […]

The event carries the theme “Social Work, Human Rights, and the Rights of Nature,” drawing from long-standing international collaborations addressing migration, poverty, conflict, climate justice, and Indigenous peoples’ rights—key issues affecting Global South societies within a neoliberal context. From a human ecology perspective, these concerns highlight the urgent need to address the commodification of nature.

BSU President Kenneth A. Laruan and College of Agriculture Dean Constantino T. Sudaydan proudly represented the university, sharing meaningful insights on “Interactive Practices and Learning Spaces” — strengthening collaboration and advancing innovative approaches in social work, extension, and teaching and learning.

This participation underscores BSU’s commitment to global collaboration, transformative learning, human rights, and environmental stewardship.

This post is shared for informational purposes only. Follow the original post below for further details.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #EHL, #InternationalWeek […]

The visit focused on identifying strategic areas for collaboration, with the USDA-APHIS visiting the different centers under R&E:📍 NPRCRTC (Northern Philippines Root Crops Research and Training Center)📍 CRAC (Cordillera Regional Agriculture Center)

This engagement marks a significant step toward internationalizing our research efforts and enhancing plant health and agricultural standards in the region. We look forward to a fruitful partnership that bridges innovation and global expertise!

This post is shared for informational purposes only. Follow the original post below for further details.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #USDA-APHIS, #PartnershipsCorner […]

The Fast Retailing Foundation Scholarship Program is open for Filipino students who aspire to pursue higher education in Japan and grow into global leaders. This program supports not only your academic journey, but also your cultural and personal development through international exposure.

✨ What’s covered?✔️ Full tuition and school fees✔️ ¥200,000 preparation support✔️ Monthly stipend (¥144,000–¥160,000)✔️ Up to ¥4,500,000 per year

📅 Application Period:July 1 – September 1, 2026

🎓 Intake:Spring and Autumn 2027

👥 Limited slots available (approx. 10 scholars per year)

If you have the passion to learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact in society, this opportunity might be for you.

Share this with someone you know who might apply.

You can check the application Guidelines and FAQs in the following links:

Scholarships for Studying in Japan

Scholarship Program FAQs

Application Guidelines

List of Designated Universities in Japan

#CallForApplications, #FastRetailingFoundationScholarshipProgram2027, #ScholarshipCorner […]

The event was attended by representatives from the Department of Education (DepEd), La Trinidad and Baguio City, as well as students from various colleges, educators, faculty members, and researchers. The program began with an opening prayer led by Ma’am Michelle Gabol, OPAPRU 4 Project Staff. This was followed by the opening remarks from Sir Rex John Bawang, IRO Director, and the rationale delivered by the OPAPRU Project Leader, Ma’am Gigy Banes, who emphasized the importance of young people learning about and being aware of indigenous knowledge in peace education.

Insights into various indigenous peace practices were shared by the resource speakers. The first speaker, Ma’am Kacy Labon, a staff member from the Institute of Social Research and Development (ISRD), presented “Justice on the Ground: Bultung as a Pathway to Where Peace is Found.” This was followed by Ma’am Melody Angco, a faculty member from the College of Social Sciences (CSS), who discussed “Weaving Peace in Apayao: The Role of Awat, Palna, Lapat, and Pumiyan in Indigenous Conflict Resolution.”

Meanwhile, Ma’am Freda Kate Samuel, Associate Dean of the College of Numeracy and Applied Sciences (CNAS), talked about “Echoes of Tongtong: Understanding YBenguet’s Peace Process Dynamics.” Sir Jeff Feliciano, a faculty member from CSS, presented the “Traditional Framework for Discipline and Self-regulation in Mountain Province.” Sir Charles Atonen, OPAPRU SIPAT IKS Project 4 Staff, shared “Where Hands Meet and Harmony Returns: Indigenous Peace Process in Abra.” Lastly, Sir Jefftee Ben Pinos-an discussed “An Appreciation of an Indigenous Conflict Resolution Model in the Case of Kalinga’s Bodong System.”

An open forum followed, allowing participants to ask questions and seek clarification on the topics discussed. This was followed by the awarding of certificates to the resource speakers, facilitated by Ma’am Kristine Dela Cruz, Chairperson of the Department of History and Philosophy under CSS, together with Sir Rex John Bawang.

The activity formally concluded with the closing remarks delivered by Sir Stanley Anongos, Dean of CSS. //J. Victorino, BAEL Interns

This event supports #sdg16peacejusticeandstronginstitutions, #sdg5genderequality, and #SDG11 by promoting peace education and highlighting indigenous knowledge and practices.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #PeaceProcessCapacityBuilding, #BSUstainable […]

“Genre‑Oriented Philippine Literary Pieces That Appeal to the Learners’ Motivation to Read”by Jason V. Chavez, Erwyn O. Valencia, Etchel B. Palma, Pearly Jade E. Samilo, Neña Vanessa A. Cabiles, 𝙅𝙤𝙨𝙚𝙥𝙝 𝘽. 𝙌𝙪𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤, Angeline L. Ramos, Haydee G. Adalia , Ivy M. Nazareth, and Collin C. Ceneciro

Mr. Joseph B. Quinto, PhD, is a faculty member from the BSU-College of Arts and Humanities, Department of English.

Abstract:

Despite the rich landscape of Philippine literature, there remains a limited understanding of how specific literary forms and their linguistic delivery influence students’ motivation to read across the archipelago. Grounded in Guthrie and Wigfield’s Engagement Model, this study addresses this gap by exploring the intrinsic and extrinsic factors that shape learners’ engagement with local texts. Utilizing an exploratory qualitative design, the study involved 18 language students purposefully selected from the Philippines’ three major island groups, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, who participated in semi-structured one-on-one interviews. Reflexive thematic analysis revealed a duality in reading motivation: while learners are primarily driven to read contemporary genres due to their social realism and linguistic accessibility via “Taglish”, they simultaneously exhibit deep engagement with complex historical narratives like Noli Me Tangere. This finding suggests that historical consciousness, the desire for identity reclamation, can override linguistic barriers regardless of regional background. The study concludes that effective literature instruction must navigate both the psychological need for mirroring lived experiences and the sociological need for anchoring a unified national identity. These insights support a pedagogical strategy of thematic pairing, where educators integrate high-interest contemporary texts with canonical works to optimize student engagement on a national scale.

We hope you will explore the key findings of this work and share or cite it to spread knowledge and insights to the wider academic community.

You can find the full publication here: https://ojs.ukscip.com/index.php/jqre/article/view…

#BenguetStateUniversity, #PublicationAlert, #ResearchCorner […]

Offered by India’s ICCR, this scholarship provides international students the opportunity to pursue diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programs at Indian universities.

The scholarship covers tuition fees, stipend, return economy airfare, local travel (air or AC train), house rent allowance, contingent allowance, and thesis/dissertation allowance.

Interested applicants are advised to visit the ICCR A2A portal which may be accessed at https://a2ascholarships.iccr.gov.in for details and guidance on the application process.

This post is shared for informational purposes only. Follow the original post below for further details.

#CHEDIAS, #CHEDIZN, #ScholarshipsCorner […]

Language learning naturally involves absorbing elements of the target culture. While full immersion in the community offers the most effective path to meaningful proficiency, it’s not always feasible. In such cases, supplementing traditional classroom strategies with cultural activities—like singing native songs, learning dances, and cooking local delicacies—can greatly enhance retention and engagement.

This is why our class incorporated a song and a dance performance. The song, “Eres Tu,” is an enduring love song, while the dance makes use of Latin-American Salsa steps, but the music used is the Spanish song “Vivir Mi Vida”.// D. Alawas, CTE Faculty

#BenguetStateUniversity, #SpanishLanguage, #SDG4QualityEducation […]

Parul University is an international higher education institution that promotes global academic collaboration and cultural exchange through programs including faculty exchanges, student mobility, internships, and research engagements.

Further information regarding the submission and deadline may be accessed at https://bit.ly/PUInformation and https://a2ascholarships.iccr.gov.in

Also attached for reference is the program flyer. Should there be any queries, applicants may directly contact the Parul University Mobility Office at Mobility@paruluniversity.ac.in.

This post is shared for informational purposes only. Follow the original post below for further details.

#CHEDIAS, #CHEDIZN, #ParulUniversity […]