NVSU-CFERM Celebrates 50 Years of Sustainable Transformation, Innovation

The Nueva Vizcaya State University-College of Forestry, Environment & Resource Management (NVSU-CFERM) marked its 50^th Founding Anniversary with a three-day celebration from September 26 to 28, 2024. Themed “CFERM strides to 50: Sustainable Transformation Reinforcing Innovative Developments for the Environment and Society,” the milestone event showcased the college’s five-decade journey of academic excellence, environmental stewardship, and community development.

Day 0: A Festive Start with Sports and Pageantry

The celebration kicked off on September 26 with a College Sports Festival at the CFERM Grounds and CLISOC Field. The two main teams, representing the Department of Forestry and Agroforestry versus the Department of Environmental Science & Ecotourism, battled it out in friendly competition to select the athletes for the upcoming University Intramural Meet.

The day's highlight was the highly anticipated Mr. & Ms. CFERM 2024 pageant, which took place in the afternoon at the CFERM Canopy. Six pairs of candidates from the four undergraduate programs of the college—Forestry, Environmental Science, Agroforestry, and Ecotourism—graced the stage in various rounds, including Active Wear, Formal Attire, and the Onstage Question and Answer. The pre-pageant events, such as the Casual Attire and Closed-Door Panel Interview, were held earlier at the Student Affairs & Services Hall.

CFERM Dean, Dr. Jayson Q. Caranza, opened the evening with an inspirational message, emphasizing the role of the youth in the continued pursuit of sustainable environmental practices. Faculty-in-Charge of the pageant, Mr. Angel L. Genato, IV, introduced the board of judges and presented the criteria for judging: beauty, poise, and wit.

In a spectacular finale, Jembo F. Guimbongan, a first-year Bachelor of Science in Forestry student, was crowned Mr. CFERM 2024, while Francine Keith W. Bacani, a first-year Bachelor of Science in Ecotourism student, took home the Ms. CFERM 2024 title. The event also honored academic excellence with the awarding of Best Thesis in Forestry, Environmental Science, and Agroforestry, sponsored by For. Joseph T. Abuan, Prof. Elmer T. Castañeto, and Dr. Susana C. Osingat, respectively.

Day 1: A Celebration of Skills and Camaraderie

The second day, September 27, was packed with student-contested events designed to highlight the practical skills and academic prowess of CFERM students. Competitions such as Seed Estimation, Leaf Identification, Wood Identification, College Trivia, Tree Volume Estimation, Tree Climbing, Entomology & Pathology Quiz, Bird Watching, and the Philippine Environmental Science Olympiad saw students from all programs showcase their expertise.

A fellowship lunch followed at the Joseph T. Abuan Sentosa Friendship Hall, where the NVSU Administrative Council led by President Dr. Wilfredo A. Dumale, Jr., joined the CFERM faculty and staff for a celebratory gathering.

The day concluded with an Acquaintance Party themed “Old but Gold,” where students and faculty gathered for an evening of fun and camaraderie. The event featured a College Trivia segment, followed by a symbolic turnover of leadership from outgoing CFERM Student Council Governor Michael T. Tayaban, represented by Asther Faith G. Tobias, to incoming Governor Jasper Mark T. Palcon. Awards like Star of the Night and King & Queen of the Dancefloor added to the excitement, marking the day as a memorable one.

Day 2: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future

The final day on September 28 began with a Thanksgiving Mass, setting a reflective tone for the day's festivities. The Opening Program that followed was attended by alumni from as far back as the class of 1978, bringing generations of CFERM graduates together.

Dean Dr. Jayson Q. Caranza delivered a heartfelt State of the College Address, recounting the achievements of CFERM over the last 50 years. Special messages from special guest Ret. PMGEN Valeriano T. De Leon, and prominent alumnus For. Joseph T. Abuan, NVSU-CFERM Alumni Association President, underscored the college’s legacy in producing leaders in forestry, environmental science, agroforestry, and ecotourism. NVSU President Dr. Wilfredo A. Dumale, Jr. also shared his visionary remarks on the future of CFERM.

The keynote address was delivered by Hon. Antonio Sergio G. Bagasao, Mayor of Bayombong, who highlighted the vital role that CFERM graduates play in promoting environmental sustainability in local governance and beyond.

The event culminated in a Recognition Program where Jubilarians, Student Achievers, Outstanding Alumni, and Benefactors were honored for their contributions to the college and society. A socialization and get-together followed, allowing alumni, faculty, and students to reconnect and celebrate the bonds forged through their shared experiences.

As CFERM strides into its next 50 years, the college remains committed to its mission of sustainable transformation, fostering innovative solutions for the environment and society. This anniversary celebration not only honored the past but also inspired a future filled with promise and progress.