CHEFS Conducts their First Leadership Training for the A.Y. 2023-2024

The College of Human Environmental Sciences and Food Studies (CHEFS) launched its First CHEFS Leadership Training and Oath-taking last August 5-6, 2023 at JAN Nature Farm, Tibungco, Davao City. The program aims to equip leaders with leadership skills and further establish teamwork and collaboration skills.

Among the officers present are: CHEFS College Officers, the Philippine Association of Nutrition – Theotokos Chapter (PAN), the Association of Courier and Epicurean Students (ACES), and the Junior Institute of Tourism Professionals (JITP). The activity was organized by the CHEFS faculty members and academic club moderators to mold the students by providing them with opportunities to develop their leadership skills.

Dr. Nelca Stephany Amatong, RND, the dean of CHEFS, formally opened the leadership training, urging students to represent the core values of a student leader of the University of the Immaculate Conception (UIC) - CHEFS department.

The leadership training provided by the college has established the framework for understanding how to work for oneself, as a team, and as a college under UIC. As student leaders, the leadership training highlighted the importance of practical experiences in line with their chosen field like preparing meals with available ingredients. The program also includes their leadership responsibilities through formulating the one-year activity plan for the upcoming A.Y. 2023-2024 and acquiring insights into being an effective leader for the CHEFS students.

In addition, the academic clubs - ACES and JITP vow their oath as officers during the program to signify their commitment, headed by Ms. Alezandra Marzeil  Dalagan, JITP moderator, and Mr. Bryan Nahine, CGSP, ACES moderator.

As the first cohort of students embarks on this transformative journey, the CHEFS department looks forward to witnessing the positive outcomes of the leadership training and the lasting impact it will have on shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

Parents’ Orientation 2023

By: Hannah Joy Fernandez

As classes for the academic year 2023-2024 began in the University of the Immaculate Conception, the College of Human Environmental Sciences and Food Studies conducted their Parents’ Orientation last August 9, 2023, from 1:00-3:30 PM, at the ND/HRIM/TM Function Hall organized by the CHEFS officers.

The program commenced with an ecumenical prayer followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, before the masters of ceremony, Jannah Marie Boiser, and Hannah Joy Fernandez, welcomed the parents, teachers, and students present at the event. The newly appointed college dean, Dr. Nelca Stephany A. Amatong, RND, then addressed the audience in her opening remarks. This was then followed by the introduction of the CHEFS Faculty, the University Student Government Officers, as well as the CHEFS Officers by the emcees.

Called back to the stage, Dr. Amatong then gave a concise but comprehensive reorientation of what went on during the parents’ general assembly, which happened earlier that day at the UIC auditorium. She also gave the parents an overview of the college policies and programs, as well as gave them a virtual tour of the college facilities. An open forum then took place where Dr. Amatong, former Dean Mr. Jason Molina, the parents, and even some of the students, were engaged in an animated discussion as concerns and queries were raised.

Once all concerns had been addressed, college governor Jannah Marie Boiser then gave her closing remarks. The event was formally wrapped up with a closing prayer and the UIC Hymn.

CHEFS ASSEMBLE: THE 2023 CHEFS GENERAL ASSEMBLY

A MEANINGFUL BEGINNING STARTS WITH A MASTER PLAN.

THE COLLEGE OF HUMAN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES AND FOOD STUDIES CONDUCTED ITS GENERAL ASSEMBLY FOR THE ACADEMIC YEAR 2023-2024, LAST SEPTEMBER 1, 2023, AND WAS HELD AT THE AUDITORIUM OF THE MAIN CAMPUS. THE EVENT HIGHLIGHTED THE OATH-TAKING OF SELECTED CLUB OFFICERS AND THE MOA SIGNING BETWEEN THE CHEFS DEPARTMENT AND THE CDS DEPARTMENT. IN COLLABORATION WITH THE CLUB OFFICERS AND THE COLLEGE OFFICERS OF CHEFS, BREAKOUT STAGES WERE GIVEN IN RESPECTIVE COURSES FOR THEM TO BE ABLE TO INTERACT AND GET TO KNOW THEIR FELLOW COURSEMATES MOST ESPECIALLY THEIR CURRENT CLUB OFFICERS. THE MEETING WAS A SUCCESS AS IT BEARED FRUIT IN CREATING A HARMONIOUS CHEMISTRY WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT. THIS CREATED AN AVENUE FOR THE STUDENTS TO BE AWARE OF THE CURRENT AND NEW POLICIES AND PROTOCOLS  OF THE SCHOOL AND THE DEPARTMENT. HENCE WITH THE EVENT'S CULMINATION, THE CHEFS STUDENTS WERE ALREADY WELL VERSED WITH THE SYSTEM AND AT THE SAME TIME WERE ABLE TO INTERACT WITH ANOTHER.

THE GREATEST PARTY

Davao City, September 15, 2023 — The College of Human Environmental Sciences and Food Studies (CHEFS) at Rogen Inn, Mt. Apo, played host to an event of history on Friday evening from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, as students and faculty gathered for the much-anticipated CHEFS Acquaintance Party. The theme, "Under the Big Top of Unity: Celebrating Diversity in the Circus of Togetherness," set an atmosphere of joy and togetherness, bringing people together in a celebration that embraces unity despite our differences.

The venue transformed into a vibrant circus atmosphere, with lively decorations and a sea of colorful costumes inspired by "The Greatest Showman." The event aimed to celebrate the diverse talents and backgrounds within the College. 

The highlight of the evening was the series of captivating performances that left attendees in awe. Mesdames, with its opening salvo, wowed the audience with a graceful and powerful display of talent. The LED LIGHT Performance illuminated the stage, creating a mesmerizing visual display that set the tone for the night.

The stage came alive with the dynamic duo of emcees, Kerubin and Manay Kenita, who guided the audience through the night's festivities with humor and charm. They kept the crowd entertained and connected.

The event showcased a diverse range of talents, featuring performances by Black Propaganda, whose electrifying act left the audience on the edge of their seats. Adriana Warr, with her soulful voice, captivated hearts, while Pairshoes brought a unique and lively flavor to the stage, keeping the energy high throughout the night.

The winners of the Acquaintance Party were announced, adding a touch of glamour and recognition to the evening. Mr. Kyle Juone Marante and Ms. Maria Kwynceza Camocamo stole the spotlight as the Couple of the Night, while Mr. Neftali Abergas and Ms. Norika Domingo turned heads, earning the title of Head Turners. 

Mr. Raymond Ranara and Ms. Razael Faith Gonzales were crowned Best in Casual Wear, showcasing their style and fashion sense. Mr. Neftali Abergas and Ms. Gabrielle Kara Lademora took the spotlight for Best in Make-up Transformation, displaying their creativity and artistry. 

The titles of Congeniality went to Mr. Wilmark John Llevado and Ms. Thersha Flor Donguila, recognized for their friendly and approachable demeanor. Finally, the Star of the Night were bestowed upon Mr. Butch Klarence Franco and Ms. Jaden Gayle Luig, who shone brightly throughout the event.

The party concluded with a sense of fulfillment and unity, as attendees left with smiles on their faces and memories of a night that truly celebrated the spirit of the CHEFS community. The success of the event affirmed CHEFS' commitment to creating an inclusive and vibrant academic community, where diversity is not only acknowledged but celebrated under the big top of unity.

Reinforcing the Bonds through Catholic Educators’ Day

By: Queen Jayag

Davao City, Philippines – January 26, 2024 The University of the Immaculate Conception (UIC) held a celebratory event for Catholic Educators' Day, led by the University Student Government (USG). The festivities took place at the UIC Bonifacio Campus, with participation from the College of Human Environmental Sciences and Food Studies (CHEFS) and other colleges across the university.

The celebration provided an opportunity for faculty and staff, particularly those from the CHEFS Department, to come together and enjoy a day of appreciation. The USG organized various programs and games specifically designed for educators, fostering a fun and interactive atmosphere.

Adding to the celebration were photo booths and a food service section. The CHEFS Department officers, along with officers from the PAN-THEOTOKOS, ACES, and JITP clubs, played a key role in managing these elements. They were responsible for providing snacks and refreshments (pika-pika) to the UIC faculty and staff throughout the event.

The Catholic Educators' Day celebration served as a heartwarming occasion for the UIC community to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of its educators. The positive energy was palpable as teachers from different departments and offices came together. The sense of community and shared purpose highlighted the values that make the UIC a unique place to learn and work. 

It was a day to recognize and appreciate the dedication of Catholic educators who play a pivotal role in shaping young minds. Catholic Educators Day at UIC was a success, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the USG, CHEFS, and other university organizations. The event not only honored the educators but also reinforced the bonds that make the UIC community strong.

CHEFS 2ND SEMESTER GENERAL ASSEMBLY: “MOVING FORWARD AS ONE UNIT”

By: Jyg Domini Masanegra and Mary Maurene Arban

As the second-semester classes began, the College of Human and Environmental Sciences and Food Studies has embraced the virtual realm to convene its annual assembly. The shift to online platforms reflects not only the adaptability of academic institutions but also a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility because we prioritize the students' safety.

It was held last January 31, 2024, at exactly 1:00 PM and was organized by CHEFS officers. The assembly commenced with an opening prayer, followed by the singing of the Philippine Nation Anthem before the masters of ceremony Ms. Mary Maurene Arban welcomed the dean, faculty, officers, and students virtually. Our dear college dean Dr. Nelca Stephany Umblero-Amatong, RND discussed the rules and regulations for this second semester. She also gave an overview of the different programs under the CHEFS department.

Furthermore, a breakout session per academic club was then held during the event as the officers discussed the status of the clubs. This includes the presentation of finished events, upcoming events in the second semester of the academic year, preparation for the Open House 2024, and more.