Loida C. Mangangey and Genevieve B. Kupang
BCU commemorated its 80th Founding Anniversary with a series of events underscoring eight decades of academic excellence and forward-thinking vision. Under the theme “Legacy of 8 Decades: Moving Forward,” the Graduate School faculty and staff, led by Dean Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang, actively participated in celebrations that showcased the University’s enduring contributions to higher education, research, and leadership development throughout the Cordillera Administrative Region and beyond.
Dean Genevieve B. Kupang was accompanied by a distinguished cohort of educators, including Dr. Manion K. Alcantara, Dr. Leonardo Aquino, Dr. Lourdes A. Bela-o, Dr. Lourdes Trajano, Dr. Marilou Eguia, Dr. Loida C. Mangangey, Dr. Jennifer Longchasen, Engr. Criselda Felix, Dr. Mico de Roxas, Dr. Samuel Neyney, Dr. Michael T. Sibullen, and Dr. Wayawaya D. Tactay. Their presence exemplified the Graduate School’s steadfast commitment to fostering ethical, innovative leaders equipped for contemporary global challenges. Notably, Dr. Manion K. Alcantara, a Graduate School faculty member, delivered one of the key messages during the anniversary program.
Recognition of Distinguished Service: Dr. Samuel K. Neyney, Dr. Manion S. Alcantara, and Dr. Remedios O. Laroco
Graduate School Presentation: A Tribute to Enduring Bonds
Prior to the presentation of graduate school faculty, Dean Kupang introduced the Graduate School’s performance of “Endless Love,” performed in Korean and Chinese. She emphasized that “education at its highest level is about academic rigor, relationships, and the enduring bonds we create with our students as they pursue their dreams. It symbolized unwavering dedication, mirroring BCU’s pledge to excellence in instruction, research, community extension, publications, global partnerships, and developing compassionate leaders.” Dean Kupang highlighted recent accolades, including the ICONS International Award received on December 10, 2025, from CHED Central Office at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City— through the leadership of our President Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera through its marketing officer Sir Karl Matthiue Rillera, our vice presidents, deans, heads of offices, faculty and students. She honored pioneers like the college’s first dean, Dr. Margarita Joven Fernandez, while dedicating the milestone to future generations.
Employee Recognition Ceremony: A Pinnacle of the Celebration
The anniversary festivities culminated in the Employee Recognition and Awarding Ceremony on December 15, 2025, held at the Cordillera Convention Hall, Baguio Country Club. This event honored faculty and staff for their longstanding service and transformative impact on BCU’s institutional mission. Dr. Alcantara also delivered a poignant response on behalf of the awardees, articulating the profound personal and professional fulfillment derived from their roles.
“As we reflect on our years of service with gratitude and reverence, BCU has been more than a workplace—it has been a place where we discovered purpose, grew in wisdom, and witnessed countless students enter our halls with hope and leave as capable individuals prepared for the world’s challenges,” Dr. Alcantara remarked. “Guiding and supporting them has been a privilege we hold dear. We extend heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Margarita Cecilda Rillera for her steadfast leadership, vision, and commitment to BCU’s advancement; to the administration for their trust and support; and to our colleagues whose professionalism, dedication, and unity strengthen our daily efforts for our students. The values we upheld, contributions we made, and relationships we nurtured will continue to live within the university.”
This ceremony not only reaffirmed BCU’s culture of excellence but also reinforced its position as a pillar of scholarly achievement not only Northern Luzon but worldwide.
Authored by Dr. Loida C. Mangangey, Faculty Member, and Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang, Dean of the Graduate School, respectively.