UCU marks 58th founding anniversary
- UCU marks 58th founding anniversary; kicks off with praise, tribute
Urdaneta City University marks its 58th Founding Anniversary in a four-day line up of activities from February 27, 2024 to March 1, 2024.
The celebration officially opened with a Thanksgiving Mass presided by Fr. Edwin Fernandez, who pressed on the significance of leading by example.
“A community will flourish when its leaders do not only preach and teach well with words, but they always walk the talk, they always lead by example,” he said.
“The best way to accelerate progress, and to achieve progress that truly benefits people, and gives glory to God– the best way is to rely on the Lord,” Fernandez added, emphasizing the vital role of a godly governance in an academic community.
The mass was followed by a wreath-laying and tribute ceremony for Dr. Pedro T. Orata, the founding father of the once then known Urdaneta Community College, to honor his determination, passion, and sacrifices in establishing the institution, which now stands as UCU.
“Certainly a man ahead of his time, the visionary– that was our founder– embodied the United Nations convention by providing access, equity, and quality of education to the Pangasinenses…” Dr. Amihan April C. Mella-Alcazar, the Acting University President, said as she commemorated the humble beginnings of Dr. Orata.
“And here we are, after 58 years of establishment of our beloved institution, and we are marching ahead, and progressing to our greatest strength as an institution. I beseech the whole UCU community– everyone– to continually contribute to the upliftment of our institution,” Dr. Alcazar added, reinforcing that progress can only be attained with collective efforts from the community.
Further, Chief Operating Officer Atty. Dar A. Diga officially opened the annual academic festivity.
UCU top officials shared a meal in one table as simultaneous feasts among offices and colleges were also shared, making the solidarity lunch more special.
To continue the first day of the series of celebrations in this year’s founding anniversary, a Lantern Parade under the banner, “Silaw, Kantiyaw ken Garaw” awaits the UCU community.
UCU lights up in Lantern Parade
February 27, 2024 - Urdaneta City University (UCU) hosted the second edition of Lantern Parade, under the banner of “Silaw, Kantiyaw ken Garaw '' during the first day of the University’s 58th Founding Anniversary.
Different colleges decorated the city streets with festive vibes and shining lanterns.
The College of Health Sciences (CHS) emerged as the champion with its graceful maneuvers, followed by the stunning performance of College of Criminal Justice Education that hailed them as first runner-up. The College of Information and Technology Education, with their minecraft-themed lanterns, made the cut as second runner-up.
Meanwhile, the following are the set of winners in different categories: CHS - Best in Silaw and Best in Kantyaw; and College of Teacher Education - Best in Garaw.
The parade symbolized unity and collective determination from a diversity of backgrounds and disciplines.
As UCU gears up for its theme, “Accelerating Progress,” the testament of the University's unwavering commitment to excellence and its dedication moves forward with a brimming light with a bright future
Foundation on Roll: Day 2 jam packed with various acts
The second day of the 58th Founding Anniversary laid simultaneous events in various disciplines and occasions, February 28.
Hope instilled
The Center for Community Development and Extension Services delivered its hope among the students of Labit National High School during the 58th Nga Namnama “Kalusugang Pansarili: Mental, Emosyonal, at Espiritwal Linangin.”
Grade 11 and 12 students took part in the lectures on spirituality led by NSTP instructor Rev. Christopher Ian O. Bulac; on uplifting self-esteem by PACC Dir. Monette S. Locquiao; and on living in gratitude by CCDES Dir. Jerry C. Dichoso.
Student beneficiaries received customized shirts bearing the logo of the 58th foundation
Pharmacy, Social Work dominate the Academic Challenges
The College of Pharmacy once again prevailed in the fields of science, mathematics, and technology categories of the Academic Challenge. Students in violet (Team B), namely: Jefferson Portante, Yvonne Cantor, Kystrel Blanco, and Andrea Bernate garnered 150 points to claim the championship.
They were followed by the College of Teacher Education (Team B) with 145 points and College of Engineering and Architecture (Team A) with 135 points, respectively.
Meanwhile, the College of Human Sciences, played by students: Fatima Lorraine Balares, Victor Ruel Carpio, John Michael Perez, and Dominic Martin, championed the Language, Arts, and Social Sciences category garnering 235 points.
The College of Pharmacy, with 230 points, won first place while the College of Criminal Justice Education, with 210 points, was placed second.
As per guidelines of this year’s challenge, participants per college are allowed to have at most two teams (Team A and Team B) to compete in the tilt.
First Lifestyle Fest installed
For the first time, UCU introduced the Lifestyle Festival to unleash the star factor among students.
The “Cosmoplay: A Creative Showcase of Fashion and Confidence” paved the way to UCUians to exhibit their unique sense of style, poise, and self-assurance. While the “Cosplay: Philippine Myths and Legends,” showcased the ingenuity and craftsmanship of UCUians in promoting a deeper appreciation for fashion art rooted in the rich tapestry of Philippine folklore.
In the Cosmoplay, entry no. 13 Judea Macanlalag, from the College of Business Management and Accountancy (CBMA) won first place, followed by entry no. 2 Winston Gale, from the College of Human Sciences as second placer, and another CBMA entry no. 12, represented by Christ Zafra, won third place.
In the Cosplay competition, the College of Hospitality and Tourism Management stood as the first placer with their representative, entry no. 5 Mikaela Joyce Clemente, cosplaying Mayari, the goddess of the moon, who was believed by the Katagalugan as the daughter of Bathala; followed by the College of Human Sciences as the second placer with their representative, entry no. 7 Elouisa Biason, cosplaying Magwayen, the goddess of the sea from Visayan mythology; and the College of Criminal Justice Education as third place, with their representative, entry no. 2 Jefferson John Llamas, portraying the legendary demigod, Lam-ang of the Ilocos Region.
Pasiklaband 2.0 echoes musicians’ talents
In a crescendo of talent and rhythm, Pasiklaband 2.0 echoed through the University Gymnasium on February 28, marking the second installment of the contested band competition among nine colleges.
College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) Iustitia Band emerged victorious, claiming the top spot with a powerful performance of “Nosi Balasi” of Sampaguita.
CCJE also lauded in receiving the Best Lead Guitarist, Best Keyboardist, and Best Vocalist.
Also, the College Teacher Education’s Didas Kalos secured a solid second place after its rendition of Isang Linggong Pag-Ibig by Imelda Papin while the College of Business Management and Accountancy notched the third spot, showcasing their version of Gloc 9’s Magdalena.
Further, College of Information and Technology Education’s Java Script grabbed the Best in Guitarist and Best in Drummer.
Moreover, Pangasinan-grown band “Fika” serenaded the crowd with hymns of their original and cover songs while the 5-piece Pop Rock band “Nobita” known for their hugot love songs hyped the University with their famous hit Ikaw Lang and Unang Sayaw.
As the echoes of Pasiklaband 2.0 fade, the event stands as a resounding success, underscoring the exceptional musical talent within the university and solidifying its place as a platform that amplifies the voices of student musicians, making it a memorable night for all who attended.
Day 3: UCU opens competition for talent potentials
February 29, 2024 - UCU hosted its talent festival featuring singing, spoken poetry contest, and hip-hop dance competition at the UCU Forest, continuing the third day of the foundation celebration.
In the solo singing category, contender no. 7 Lord G. Macaraeg from the College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) won the champion title; contender no. 9 Necole Velasco from the College of Health Sciences (CHS) was named first place; and contender no. 3 Lucilla Pabunan from the College of Business Management and Accountancy (CBMA) garnered second place.
The spoken poetry category named three winners. namely: contender no. 4 Winston Jay Austria (CCJE) emerged as the champion; contender no. 5 Fanayah Mae Cayao from the College of Human Sciences (CHUMS) obtained first place; and contender no. 6 John Rey Mayo from the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) was named second place.
Hip-hop dance competition hailed three contenders as its winners: Victo Crim Dance Troupe (CCJE) was named as champion; the CHTM Dancers of the College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CHTM) won first place; and the Dance Teachers of the College of Teacher Education (CTE) won second place.
The morning's festivities set the stage for an evening of glamor as UCU hosted the search for Mr. and Ms. UCU.
Demonstrating that UCUians possess not only exceptional talent but also stage presence, the event underscored the university's commitment to nurturing both artistic and personal development among its students
UCU crowns this year’s student royalties
Urdaneta City University held the search for Mr. and Ms. UCU 2024 on the third day of the week-long celebration of the 58th founding anniversary on February 29, 2024 at the University Gymnasium.
Out of ten contenders for men and women categories , Jazien C. Abuan of the College of Business Management and Accountancy (CBMA) and Irene D. Co from the College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) were crowned as Mr. and Ms. Urdaneta City University 2024.
Abuan earned major and minor awards including: Mr. Articulate, Mr. Photogenic, Mr. Legends Gym, Best in Casual Wear (male), and Best in Formal Wear (male) while Co won the titles, including: Ms. Articulate, Student Choice Award (female), and Best in Summer Wear (female).
Abuan defined his winning moment after he nailed the final question in the contention, “How do you define progress and what can you do to promote it?”
“I believe in success in progress, learning the experiences and lessons you have learned that helps you to continue to accelerate yourself and accelerate progress itself. So, first let's look back on the world view of Dr. Pedro T. Orata which was education for all for life and throughout life. So, that’s why I believe that progress especially in today's generation, change is constant we need that’s why I want to empower each and everyone of you and to create, as an ambassador of UCU, an adaptable and sustainable environment for there’s love, peace, compassion, respect, unity, and tolerance because through this, we can become the embodiment perfect reflection of our University and that is the noble identity,” he elaborated.
Co made a clean shot to win the crown after hitting her final question, “Is there a need to accelerate progress or should we wait for its natural course?”
One of the many reasons why I really love Urdaneta City University [is because] it is fortifying its commitment in providing a sustainable, not just sustainable, but practical programs and services. I can attest how hardworking and how sacrificial our University in providing us a very progressive and accelerated program and as an ambassador, I strongly believe that it is my duty and role to promote that kind of program because in life, [we] shouldn’t be stagnant, we shouldn’t wait for something if we could do something. And as a woman standing in front of you, I really want to encourage everyone of you tonight that whatever the reasons will be, let's just pursue to create progress because as long as we have the information, we have the power to create a change,” she exclaimed.
Meanwhile, John Vincent Sacdalan from the College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) and Graciel Parayno (CBMA) landed as first runners-up. Also, Arnold S Ellana from the College of Information and Technology Education (CITE) and Angela Rivera from the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) secured second runners-up.
The following are the winners in major, minor, and special awards:
Major Awards:
Best in Casual Wear (Male) - Jazien Abuan (CBMA)
Best in Casual Wear (Female) - Trisha Mae Soriano (COP)
Best in Summer Wear (Male) - Arnold Ellana (CITE)
Best in Summer Wear (Female) - Irene Co (CEA)
Best in Formal Wear (Male) - Jazien Abuan (CBMA)
Best in Formal Wear (Female) - Graciel Parayno (CBMA)
Minor Awards:
Mr. Friendship – Erickson Importa (CEA)
Ms. Friendship – Graciel Parayno (CBMA)
Mr. Articulate - Jazien Abuan (CBMA)
Ms. Articulate - Irene Co (CEA)
Mr. Character – John Vincent Sacdalan (CCJE)
Ms. Character - Colleen Khey Pascua (CHUMS)
Mr. Photogenic - Jazien Abuan (CBMA)
Ms. Photogenic - Graciel Parayno (CBMA)
Best in Talent (Male) - John Vincent Sacdalan (CCJE)
Best in Talent (Female) - Graciel Parayno (CBMA)
Best in Production Number (Male) - Arnold Ellana (CITE)
Best in Production Number (Female) - Norilyn Miguel (CHTM)
Special Awards:
Student Choice Award for Male - Erickson Importa (CEA)
Student Choice Award for Female - Irene Co (CEA)
Mr. Wundt Psychological Institute - Irvin Clark Padios (COP)
Ms. Wundt Psychological Institute - Colleen Khey Pascua (CHUMS)
Mr. Yves Drop - John Vincent Sacdalan (CCJE)
Ms. Yves Drop - Graciel Parayno (CBMA)
Mr. Legends Gym - Jazien Abuan (CBMA)
Ms. Legends Gym - Trisha Mae Soriano (COP)
Mr. Luxury Brows - Irvin Clark Padios (COP)
Ms. Luxury Brows - Norilyn Miguel (CHTM)
Mr. F3 (Full Force Fitness) Gym - Arnold Ellana (CITE)
Ms. F3 (Full Force Fitness) Gym - Graciel Parayno (CBMA)
Mr. Prestige International - Tyrus Mein Talifa (CHTM)
Ms. Prestige International - Graciel Parayno (CBMA)
May the new ambassadors of Urdaneta City University embody its core values: integrity, competence, teamwork, and transcendence to all members of the community. May you advocate harmony and excellence in the spirit of this year’s theme - Accelerated Progress.
Congratulations to all winners!
UCUPA, UCUAAI conclude week-long foundation
Two prime associations of Urdaneta City University closed its 58th Founding Anniversary last March 1.
The UCU Personnel Association (UCUPA) and UCU Alumni Association, Inc. led the final events, including the Color Run, Zumba, and Gala Night and Variety Show.
Alumni dept declares fastest sprinters
The Color Run hosted by the UCUAAI, in coordination with the University Physical Education Department, tested the speed of UCUians in 3-kilometre, 5-kilometre, and 10-kilometre runs.
The route traversed from San Vicente Road to Barangay Lelemaan, Manaoag.
The following are the winners in different categories:
3-kilometer Male Category
1st place - Nejel Viloria (15:27)
2nd place - Lloyd Catubig (15:40)
3rd place - Francis Bustillos (16:50)
3-kilometer Female Category
1st place – Mary Rose Frias (15:16)
2nd place – Althea Kate Menzon (23:47)
3rd place – Jinalyn Esteves (26:24)
5-kilometer Male Category
1st place – Mark Anthony Fernandez (19:53)
2nd place – Gio Jordan (24:53)
3rd place – Dj Doot (24:57)
5-kilometer Female Category
1st place – Nicky Solis (32:09)
2nd place – Heart Peralta (40:21)
3rd place – Alexa Mae Sulit (46:29)
10-kilometer Male Category
1st place – John Patrick Fernandez (40:30)
2nd place – John Calvin Banaag (46:44)
3rd place – Deniel Mingrajal (53:19)
10-kilometer Female Category
1st place – Faye Angela Guitang (1:19:00)
2nd place – Kaye Andrada (1:21:39)
3rd place – Alicia Banigued (1:21:37)
3-kilometer Walk-in Category
Male - Collins Prago (12:46)
Female - Choole Cuecaco (26:08)
5-kilometer Walk-in Category
Male - PJ Aquino (21:13)
10-kilometer Walk-in Category
Male - Rufeno Javier (36:54:02)
Female - April Esteves (57:48:88)
It was followed by a mini-zumba exercise to cool down the sweat of the runners.
Furthermore, a zumba students’ fair was enjoyed by the events’ participants, supporting various food stalls and booths organized by the different colleges of the University. The proceeds of the fair will go to the respective students’ organizations accordingly.
UCU honors employees in Gala Night
Administrators, teaching and non-teaching personnel displayed glamor, fashion, camaraderie, and excellence during the Gala Night and Variety Show.
Recognition of outstanding employees through loyalty of service awards was also part of the program, appreciating the vital role of the working force to the success of the University.
Among the awarded non-teaching personnel are the following:
Thirty-five (35) years of service
Brenda S. Consolacion
Twenty (20) years of service
Cindy E. Barroga
Arceli M. Guerzon
Cristina S. Lomboy
Gladys M. Obado
Renante L. Ojerio
Cindy N. Parayno
Artemio L. Serquillos
Johnny E. Ventura
Fifteen (15) years of service
Jovelyn R. De Leon
Benjie D. Justo
Jhonny A. Soria
Johnrey T. Soriano
Ten (10) years of service
Angelo L. Banaag
Meanwhile, the following are the awardees from the teaching personnel:
Twenty (20) years of service
Prof. Raquel S. Arcaina
Prof. Jofil Z. Lomboy
Fifteen (15) years of service
Prof. Louie D. Juguilon
Prof. Johanns B. Rabago
Prof. Lindbergh Lendl S. Soriano
Ten (10) years of service
Prof. Mailyn D. Campos
Prof. Rondenia O. Contapay
Prof. Adeline H. Ellasos
Prof. Arnel B. Ocay
Prof. Irene F. Salvador
Prof. Sharon B. Valencia
Prof. Rhealyn B. Valenzuela
Prof. Arly N. Visperas
Filled with dancing and socialization, the endeavor put a testament to the unwavering spirit of unity and commitment that defines the institution, continuing on the journey toward academic legacy.
