On March 17, 2025, Laguna University (LU) held a pivotal public forum for the selection of its new university president. The event, attended by the Search Committee Members, students, parents, alumni, faculty, and non-teaching personnel was hosted in the Audio-Visual Room of the RLH Building Conference Room.
Dr. Monette O. Bato, OIC – Office of the University President, opened the forum with heartfelt remarks, underscoring the significance of this event in identifying a leader who will inspire and guide the university into its next chapter. She expressed gratitude for the community’s enthusiastic participation.
Afterwards, Provincial Administrator, Atty. Dulce H. Rebanal, representing Governor Ramil L. Hernandez, conveyed warm regards and emphasized this forum as a crucial milestone for LU’s commitment to providing quality education. Engaging every individual in this decision-making process ensures that the future leadership truly embodies the values and aspirations of the entire Laguna University community.
Before the presentation, Dr. Candida B. Adalla of UP Los Baños, Chairperson of the Search Committee, outlined the rigorous selection process that narrowed down three applicants to one qualified candidate. The comprehensive process involved pre-qualification, presentations, and interviews, ensuring that the selected individual possesses the right qualities to lead the university effectively.
Dr. Charlemagne G. Laviña, the presidential candidate and former university president, presented his vision for Laguna University, titled “Laguna University: Transforming Students into Globally Competitive Professionals.” He highlighted key initiatives such as offering high-quality, free education and promoting social responsibility among students. He emphasized the need for strategic partnerships with industries and other educational institutions to enhance the academic experience and align students’ skills with market demands.
The forum also featured an engaging open question-and-answer session, where the community had the opportunity to raise important issues. Here are some key questions from the audience:
- Joseph Cesar, 3rd Year BS Mechanical Engineering Student:: “Can you assure that the scholarship program will continue if you are appointed as the new university president?”
- Ms. Escoleta Concenso (Parent): ” Due to a recent fire accident in a university, what can be done for the safety of the students?
- Dr. Marie Joy Q. Elomina (Non-Teaching Personnel): “As you prepare to lead LU for the 2nd time, what concrete strategies will you implement to support the professional growth and workplace satisfaction of both teaching faculty and non-teaching staff since non-teaching also provides service to LU? Could you elaborate on specific initiatives for resource allocation, workload equity, and fostering collaboration between these critical groups??”
- Dr. Josephine Bermudez (Teaching Personnel): “How will you ensure integrity towards excellence? What specific program will you implement for character building of the students?”
In closing, Dr. Alex Macario C. Cecilio, OIC of the Office of the Vice President for Administration, wrapped up the event, emphasizing the significance of this pivotal moment for LU. The forum provided an invaluable chance for the university community to connect with the presidential candidate and understand his vision for the future.
This event has not only fostered a sense of involvement but has also laid the groundwork for a collaborative transition into an era of new leadership, one that aspires to uphold the standards of excellence and community engagement that define LU.
By: Winslet L. Fernandez and Marie Joy Q. Elomina
Photos by: Samuel Nikkolei C. Reodica
