Bicol Orientation and Training on Student Affairs and Services (BOAT-SAS)

The two-day of the inaugural Bicol Orientation and Training on Student Affairs and Services (BOAT-SAS), was held on August 24-25, 2023, at the Alingal Multipurpose Hall, Ateneo de Naga University (ADNU), Naga City.

This pioneering event, organized by the Bicol Council of Deans/Dir`ectors of Student Affairs and Services (BCODDSAS) under the leadership of Rodolfo “Sonny” Virtus Jr. from ADNU, was held in collaboration with the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office V (CHEDROV). The BOAT-SAS gathered 152 student affairs and services (SAS) practitioners, guidance counselors, and student leaders from 66 colleges, universities, and a high school.

On Day 1, participants were warmly welcomed by ADNU University President, Fr. Roberto Exequiel Rivera, S.J. The morning sessions featured an orientation on CHED Memorandum Order (CMO) No. 9, Series 2013, led by CHEDROV Education Supervisor Engr. Geronimo Buenavente. This was followed by an insightful discussion on SAS Management and Administration theories, practices, and innovations, presented by Dr. Baby Boy Benjamin D. Nebres III, President IV of Bicol University.

The afternoon session focused on the Mental Health Law, with Dr. Carolina Uno-Rayco, Executive Director of the Philippine Mental Health Association, serving as the keynote speaker. Following her talk and an engaging open forum, three registered guidance counselors and administrators shared best practices and innovations from their institutions. Angelica Cadag of the University of Nueva Caceres, Dr. Gemma Clet of Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges, and Sarah Abawag of Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology each presented their successful strategies.

Adrian Giovanni Gerona, BCODDSAS Public Information Officer and SAS Director of Osmeña Colleges, Masbate, expertly served as the master of ceremonies and moderator for the day. The event was further enlivened by performances from the ADNU Symphonic Band instrumentalists, the Naga College Foundation Rondalla, and the Bicol State Colleges of Applied Sciences and Technology Voyadores dance group, adding a vibrant touch to the proceedings.

It was attended by 152 student affairs and services (SAS) practitioners, as well as guidance counselors and student leaders from sixty-six (66) colleges, universities, and a high school.