The Bloom

Happy Birthday to our Column Writer, Roy G. Tañedo!

Wishing you a day full of joy and all the best in everything you do. May this special day and the year ahead bring you endless blessings, joy, and even bigger platforms to share your amazing talent.

Sending you the warmest cheers on your special day, Your Bloom Publication Family!

𝙆𝘼𝙇𝘼𝙔𝘼𝘼𝙉𝙂 𝙈𝘼𝙔 𝙋𝘼𝙉𝙄𝙉𝙄𝙉𝘿𝙄𝙂𝘼𝙉

‎Hindi lamang araw ng kasaysayan ang Hunyo dose, ito ay paalala na minsan nanindigan at piniling maging matapang ang bansang Pilipinas kaysa manatiling alipin at mamatay ng may takot sa kamay ng mga mananakop. Ang kanilang tapang ang nagsilbing liwanag sa gitna ng madilim na kabanata ng ating kasaysayan.
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‎Sa bawat watawat na iwinawagayway ay simbolo ng sakripisyo at buhay ng ating mga bayani na piniling ialay ang buhay para sa bansang may sariling tinig, dangal at pagkakakilanlan. Bawat luha, bawat sugat, at bawat dugo na dumanak sa ating lupain ay pundasyon ng isang bansang malaya na ating tinatamasa ngayon.
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‎Ang tunay na diwa ng kalayaan ay hindi lamang sa paggunita sa tuwing araw ng kasarinlan. Ito ay makikita sa bawat galaw at salita ng mga Pilipino, malayang tumindig para sa bayan, malayang magsalita para sa katotohanan, malayang piliin at mahalin ang ating bayan.
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‎Ang tunay na malaya, may pakialam, may paninindigan at may silbi sa bayan, dahil ang kalayaan ay hindi pribilehiyong minana natin ito ay ipinaglaban ng ating mga bayani kung kaya't ito ay may kaakibat na responsibilidad dapat pinapangatawan at isinasabuhay ng bawat mamamayang Pilipino.
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‎Sa panahon ngayon kung saan maraming hamon ang kinakaharap ng bansa, nawa'y manatiling buhay ang diwang mapagmahal, makabayan sa puso ng bawat isa. Dahil ang pagiging malaya ay hindi lamang sa pagkakaroon ng pagkakakilanlan ng bansa o sa pagpugay ng watawat, kundi sa pagkakaroon ng boses, tapang, prinsipyo, at paninindigan ng tama sa kabila ng hamon. Ang tunay na bansang malaya ay marunong lumingon sa kasaysayan at tumindig para sa kinabukasan.
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‎Habang ipinagdiriwang natin ang Araw ng Kalayaan, nawa'y hindi lamang tayo manatili sa pag alala sa nakaraan, bagkus gawin natin itong inspirasyon na ipagpatuloy ang laban ng ating mga bayani sa pamamagitan ng pagiging mamayang Pilipino na may pananagutan, paninindigan, at pagmamahal sa sariling bayan. Ang kalayaan ang pinakamagandang simbolo ng pag asa para sa bayang minsang inalipin at nabuhay sa takot.

✒️: Ella Mae Estipona | Literary Writer
🎨: Francine Dollesin | Layout and Graphic Artist

Happy Birthday to our Layout and Graphic Artist, Bryant Alexandry Enraca!

Wishing you a day full of joy and all the best in everything you do. May this special day and the year ahead bring you endless blessings, joy, and even bigger platforms to share your amazing talent.

Sending you the warmest cheers on your special day, Your Bloom Publication Family!

𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗣𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀: 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘂𝗿 2026 𝗘𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗕𝗼𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗲
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‎The official student publication of Sorsogon State University–Castilla Campus, The Bloom, proudly honors one of its own, Jan Kenneth D. Rosare, former Chief Layout and Graphic Artist, as he graduates as an academic achiever of Batch 2026.
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‎As one of our senior members who helped pave the way from the very beginning up to the upcoming third volume of our magazine, your unwavering effort and dedication have left an indelible mark on our publication. You didn't just contribute; you helped build The Bloom from the ground up. From a blank page to beautiful publication materials, from newsletters to full magazines, you crafted countless masterpieces that gave life and identity to every issue.
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‎Even with a demanding schedule, you illustrated stories that words alone could not tell. Your passion for delivering timely, relevant updates through striking visuals and layouts has been nothing short of inspiring.
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‎Beyond your creative brilliance, we celebrate you for all your achievements, big and small. You are one of the students who brought honor not only to our university but to the entire The Bloom family. Your success is our pride, and your journey inspires every member of this publication to strive for excellence.
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‎Thank you for your camaraderie, your laughter, your friendship, and the countless hours you poured into making The Bloom what it is today. You have given us more than designs; you have given us a family, a foundation, and a future to look forward to.
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‎Congratulations, Jan Kenneth D. Rosare, and to all our Batch 2026 graduates from Sorsogon State University–Castilla Campus. You have reached this milestone with strength and perseverance, and we couldn't be prouder.

As you step into new endeavors, we are confident that the same dedication that built our magazine will guide you toward even brighter futures. We will miss you dearly, but we will always carry the positive and productive environment you cultivated. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. Know that we will always be praying for your success and rooting for you in every chapter that lies ahead. May you continue to shine and embody the values of the Pamantasang May Puso wherever you go. ❤️🎓

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After years of dedication, commitment, and perseverance, the Class of 2026 has finally taken their march and stepped into the next chapter of their journey. ✨

The road was tough, but every hour invested, every late-night realization, and every silent battle brought them closer to the life they've always dreamed of. Behind every degree lies a story of unyielding perseverance and sacrifices that words can barely capture.

For four years, these students turned every challenge into a stepping stone and every late night into a testament of dedication. Today, the fruits of their hard work have finally been harvested. Beyond academic triumphs, they leave behind a tapestry of shared memories, laughter, and lifelong friendships.

As they now walk forward with humility, pride, and commitment, may they continue to serve and embody the values of the Pamantasang May Puso! ❤️🎓

To the graduates: your sacrifices have not gone unnoticed. Let this milestone be the anchor of your hope and the fuel for the brilliant journeys ahead. The future is ready for you.

𝗦𝗼𝗿𝗦𝗨 𝗖𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗮 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗱𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺 𝗛𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲𝘀-𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗗𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀

𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | Sorsogon State University–Castilla Campus conducted its Recognition Program on June 3, 2026, at the Castilla Campus Grounds, honoring students for their academic achievements under the theme “Honoring Values-Driven and Digitally Empowered Lifelong Learners.”

The program formally opened with a solemn processional, followed by an opening prayer led by Romeo Gideon F. Gonzalgo, the entrance of colors by the ROTC Castilla Campus Unit, and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem led by Ms. Charlene N. Lagunilla.

In his welcome remarks, Campus Director Prof. Andrew F. Detera congratulated the awardees and acknowledged the hard work, perseverance, and dedication that led to their success. He emphasized that achievements are made possible through sacrifices, determination, and the support of family, mentors, and friends. He also reminded the audience that academic success is measured not only by awards received but also by the character and resilience developed throughout one’s journey.

The highlight of the event was the inspirational message delivered by guest speaker Ms. Clarisse Bonos Liwanag, Agricultural Technologist from the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist. She was introduced by Ms. Celine N. Talagsad, Student Development and Services Coordinator.

In her speech, Ms. Liwanag shared her personal journey of overcoming challenges and embracing change. She recounted her transition from being an architecture student to pursuing agriculture, describing it as a difficult yet rewarding decision that eventually became one of the best choices she had made. Through her story, she encouraged students to remain resilient amid setbacks and to view challenges as opportunities for growth.

She also highlighted the advantages of digital technology and internet access among today’s learners, noting that students can now obtain information more easily compared to previous generations who spent long hours in libraries searching for reference materials. Reflecting on her academic journey, she expressed gratitude to those who supported her and acknowledged the campus community where she once contributed through research initiatives.

As guidance for the students’ future endeavors, Ms. Liwanag shared five life lessons: courage is more important than confidence; perseverance has great value; asking for and extending help are essential; growth is not always defined by titles, positions, or wealth; and success should be defined on one’s own terms. She concluded by encouraging students to continue moving forward despite challenges.
Following her address, the university presented Ms. Liwanag with a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of her meaningful contribution to the program. The ceremony then proceeded with the awarding of certificates and medals to students who excelled academically.

Representing the awardees, Mr. Richie M. Pineda delivered the Words of Gratitude, reflecting on his educational journey from elementary school to college. He expressed appreciation to his parents, teachers, friends, and mentors for their guidance and support throughout the years. He emphasized that the recognition they received was the result of perseverance, sacrifice, and unwavering determination.
Meanwhile, Dr. Maria Crisanta E. Mella, Student Development and Services Director, underscored the significance of the program’s theme by emphasizing the importance of values as the foundation of success. She reminded students that achievements are built through patience, discipline, and consistent effort.

Drawing from an agricultural perspective, she shared the analogy: “Ang masaganang ani ay hindi bunga ng pagkakataon lamang; ito ay resulta ng tamang pagpili ng binhi, maingat na pag-aalaga, at patuloy na pagsisikap sa kabila ng bawat hamon.” She also emphasized the importance of becoming digitally empowered learners who can maximize technology while maintaining strong values and integrity.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Oscar Peter D. Pascual, Program Chair of Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (BSABE), expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the students’ success, especially their parents and families whose sacrifices often go unnoticed. He encouraged the awardees to give back to their communities and share the knowledge and lessons they have gained with others. He further reminded the students that true success is measured not only by personal achievements but also by the positive impact they create in the lives of others.

✒️: Abegail Diaz | Associate Editor
📷: Jimboy Tabanao | Video Journalist, Aljhun Hebres | Junior Photojournalist

𝗦𝗼𝗿𝗦𝗨 𝗖𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗮 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 242 𝗡𝗦𝗧𝗣 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗶𝗻 2026 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗥𝗶𝘁𝗲𝘀
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‎𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | Sorsogon State University–Castilla Campus, guided by the theme “Empowered SorSUeños in Service, United for Sustainable and Resilient Communities,” formally held its National Service Training Program (NSTP) 2026 Completion Rites on June 3, 2026, honoring 242 completers from the Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS) and Literacy Training Service (LTS) components.
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‎The ceremony served as a meaningful celebration of growth, civic responsibility, and volunteerism as students completed their service training and prepared to take on greater roles in nation-building and community development.
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‎In his opening remarks, former dean Dr. Oscar Peter D. Pascual underscored the perseverance and dedication demonstrated by NSTP students throughout the academic year. He reminded the completers that their sacrifices and efforts would translate into meaningful growth and service to others. He also encouraged them to carry forward the values and lessons they had gained as they assume broader responsibilities in society.
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‎The formal presentation of completers was led by Ms. Maria Theresa M. Ragasa, College Registrar, who confirmed a total of 242 completers from the CWTS and LTS components. This was followed by the confirmation of NSTP completers and an inspirational message from Prof. Andrew F. Detera, Campus Director, who extended his congratulations and commended the students for successfully fulfilling the requirements of the program.
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‎Certificates of completion and recognition were awarded by NSTP implementers, dean, program chairs, and campus officials, marking a proud milestone for the completers and their families.
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‎The program continued with the introduction of the guest speaker by Ms. Jeah M. Alipio, NSTP Implementer, followed by the keynote address of Mr. John Glenn Barquilla. In his speech, Mr. Barquilla emphasized three core values for the completers: putting heart into every mission, upholding the dignity of every person, and embracing even the smallest acts of service.
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‎He reminded the audience that the true impact of service is not always measured through material accomplishments, but through the kindness and compassion extended to others. He also highlighted the importance of collaboration in community development, stressing that meaningful change cannot be achieved alone.
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‎Anchoring his message on Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals, Mr. Barquilla encouraged the NSTP completers to actively participate in volunteerism, partnerships, and community initiatives that contribute to youth and societal development.
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‎He concluded his speech with a statement that resonated strongly with the audience: “Hindi ako scholar ng bayan, kundi scholar para sa bayan.”
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‎A token of appreciation was awarded to the guest speaker by the NSTP Coordinator and NSTP Kaagapay Officers in recognition of his inspiring message.
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‎The ceremony proceeded with the Pledge of Service Commitment led by NSTP Kaagapay President Jesus Francisco Enteria, followed by the Oath of Membership to the National Service Reserve Corps (NSRC), administered by Prof. Achilles G. Honasan, DRRM-CC Coordinator. The oath formally marked the completers’ continued commitment to public service and disaster preparedness.
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‎In her closing remarks, Ms. Ghenly M. Gonzales, NSTP Coordinator, extended her heartfelt congratulations to the completers and expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the event. She encouraged the students to continue embodying the values they learned in NSTP, remain active volunteers, and become catalysts for positive change in their communities.
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‎She also reflected on the friendships, camaraderie, and sense of family built throughout the program, emphasizing that NSTP became a shared journey of growth, discipline, and service.
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‎The program concluded with a heartfelt performance of the completion song by the NSTP completers, followed by the singing of the SorSU Hymn, symbolizing unity, pride, and continued commitment to the university’s mission of service and excellence.
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‎The NSTP 2026 Completion Rites ultimately served as a reminder that genuine service begins with compassion and that even the smallest acts of kindness can create lasting ripples of change in society.
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‎✒️: Sarah Jean M. Lovendino | Feature Editor
‎📷: Neil Johnson Dellosa | Junior Photojournalist
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𝗦𝗼𝗿𝗦𝗨 𝗖𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗮 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗡𝗦𝗧𝗣 𝗗𝗮𝘆 2026 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲, 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁

𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | Sorsogon State University – Castilla Campus, through the National Service Training Program Office, successfully celebrated NSTP Day 2026 on June 2, 2026, carrying the theme “Lingkod-SorSU: Kabataang Iskolar ng Bayan para sa Serbisyo, Pagkakaisa, at Kaunlaran.” The event was organized in collaboration with the School-Based National Service Reserve Corps (SB-NSRC), NSTP-Kaagapay, and the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). Faculty members, NSTP students, and partner organizations across the campus took part in the celebration.

The program featured three major activities: a morning team-building session, an afternoon outreach and gift-giving activity for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), and an evening pageant and social gathering for NSTP students.

The morning session highlighted interactive team-building activities facilitated by NSTP in partnership with SB-NSRC and ROTC. Students participated in ten activity stations under the theme “DUYOG 2026: Isang Bigkis, Isang Yugto, Isang Puso,” which aimed to strengthen teamwork, leadership, communication, and cooperation while reinforcing the values of unity, discipline, and service.

In the afternoon, the outreach activity titled “Kaagapay: An Outreach Program for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)” gathered the Campus Director, faculty members, representatives from the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO), PWDs, and NSTP students. During the program, PDAO representative Mr. Charlie Lasalita discussed the rights and privileges of PWDs and encouraged them to continue recognizing their worth and contributions to society.

NSTP students also demonstrated the process of making dishwashing liquid by presenting the materials, sources of ingredients, and estimated costs as a possible livelihood opportunity for PWDs and their families. Selected PWDs and parents shared inspiring stories of resilience, while participants received grocery packages as part of the outreach initiative.

The celebration culminated in the evening with the highly anticipated Mr., Ms., and Mx. Kaagapay 2026 pageant. Candidates showcased their confidence, talents, and advocacies through various segments, including the School Uniform and Creative Attire competitions, followed by the final question-and-answer portion. Intermission performances and the recognition of outstanding participants added excitement to the program.

NSTP-Kaagapay President Jesus Francisco Enteria welcomed the students and encouraged them to enjoy the evening while promoting unity, camaraderie, and meaningful memories.

Meanwhile, NSTP Director Mr. Al Alcantara emphasized leadership, service, and civic responsibility in his message, urging students to apply their NSTP learnings in empowering communities and contributing to nation-building.
Crowned as the new ambassadors of service were Ivan Ocampo from the BSABE Department as Mr. Kaagapay 2026, Maricar Cañeta from the BTVTED Department as Ms. Kaagapay 2026, and Joshua Laguerta from the BSACS Department as Mx. Kaagapay 2026.

The program concluded with a candle-lighting ceremony symbolizing commitment to service and nation-building, followed by a social night that fostered friendship and unity among NSTP students.

In the closing segment, Ms. Ghenly Gonzales, NSTP Adviser and Coordinator, expressed her gratitude to the faculty members, NSTP implementers, organizations, NSTP students, and student publication staff who contributed to the success of NSTP Day 2026. She recognized their dedication, cooperation, and collective efforts in making the activity meaningful and successful.

NSTP Day 2026 ended with a stronger sense of unity and purpose among students, reminding everyone that genuine service is reflected through collective action and compassion for the community. The event also reaffirmed the vital role of the youth in building a more empowered and socially responsible society.

✒️: Nicole B. Suarez | News Writer, Sarah Jean M. Lovendino | Feature Editor
📷: Neil Johnson Dellosa, Joshua Ferreras | Junior photojournalist

𝘽𝙖𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝘽𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘽𝙮𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙚: 𝘼 𝙎𝙖𝙡𝙪𝙩𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝘽𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙢'𝙨 𝘼𝙘𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙢𝙞𝙘 𝘼𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙨

Celebrating the achievements of individuals who dedicate themselves to empowering others through knowledge, service, and journalistic integrity.

Warmest congratulations to the student journalists of The Bloom Publication, the official student publication of Sorsogon State University – Castilla Campus, for your outstanding academic accomplishments as President's Listers, Dean's Listers, and awardees. Your dedication, perseverance, and passion for excellence truly reflect your remarkable commitment both as students and as campus journalists.

We are so proud of your achievements in academics and in being student journalists, balancing it all with grace and determination. These accomplishments are not only personal milestones but also a source of inspiration to the entire academic community. Your hard work and sacrifices have truly paid off, bringing pride and honor to the university.

May you continue to excel and empower others with your skills to support our community. The whole The Bloom family cheers for you all! May this recognition open more doors and lead to continued success as you inspire and shape the lives of many learners.

🎨: Jan Kenneth B. Rosare | Chief Layout and Graphic Artist