Writer: Edelyn Pelaez
Photographer: DEdilberto Mendez Jr, Ricky John Ocapan, & Ralph Dale Ramirez
The School of Agriculture, Forestry, and Environmental Studies (SAFES), under the leadership of Dean Dr. Emelyn D. Tormes, celebrated SAFES Day 2025 on November 20–21, 2025, at the JHCSC Main Campus. The event was organized by the SAFES Student Organization (SSO), under the guidance of its adviser, Dr. Nelmie P. Ponio, with the theme “One SAFES, One Goal: Growing Together for a Greener Tomorrow.”
The two-day celebration opened with a parade, followed by the presentation of the Houses representing the different academic programs: Red Phoenix (BSES), Green Bulls (BSA–Dumingag), Yellow Lions (BSA–Main), and Blue Eagles (BSF)· The unity dance and the sashing of the Mr. and Miss SAFES 2025 candidates followed it.
Day 1 featured morning competitions, including Bench Cheering and Barn Dance, followed in the afternoon by Open-Field events such as Tug of War, Load Carrying, and Wood Chopping. Arts and design contests, such as Flower Arrangement and Poster Making, were also held.
The event’s guest speaker was Mr. Joseph Francis Ruelos, a student researcher from MSU-IIT pursuing a master’s degree in Environmental Science. He delivered a talk on climate change, emphasizing that the Earth has natural limits—its nine planetary boundaries, of which six have already exceeded the safe zone. He reinforced the message: “There is no Planet B or C—we only have this one,” encouraging everyone to make the right choices to protect the environment.
In the evening, SAFES held an Alumni Homecoming for its undergraduate programs (BSF, BSES, BSA, and BAT) and graduate programs (MagDev and MSERM)· It was a night of cherished memories, achievements, friendship, unity, and camaraderie among the SAFES family.
During the Alumni Night, the college presented Certificates of Recognition to licensure and Civil Service Exam passers. It was followed by the election and induction of the new officers of the SAFES Alumni Association, with Mr. Cyrel Judaya elected as president. Mr. Judaya was also the one who generously sponsored fertilizers, a half-sack of rice, and cash prizes for the alumni raffle draw.
The Search for Mr. & Miss SAFES 2025 highlighted the evening celebration. Candidates showcased their poise and confidence in the Production Number, Mafia Attire, Rodeo Attire, and School Uniform Attire, as well as the Long Gown and Suit categories. During the coronation, both candidates from BSA–Main were crowned Mr. and Miss SAFES 2025. The audience also witnessed the final walk of the reigning Mr. & Miss SAFES 2024, Mr. Rhaingie Sulatorio Tangarurang (BSA–Dumingag) and Ms. Frett Niñajale Monsalud Garcenes (BSES).
Various program-based competitions were also integrated into the pageant, where participants demonstrated their talent and creativity in Vocal Solo, Duet, Street Dance, and Wannabe performances.
Day 2 featured literary competitions, including Essay Writing, Extemporaneous Speaking, Quiz Bowl, and Concept Paper Writing. In the afternoon, the closing program was held, where the following were declared during the awarding ceremony:
• 3rd Runner-Up – BS Environmental Science (Red Phoenix)
• 2nd Runner-Up – BS Agriculture – Dumingag (Green Bulls)
• 1st Runner-Up – BS Forestry (Blue Eagles)
• Overall Champion – BS Agriculture – Main (Yellow Lions)
The two-day SAFES Day celebration promoted unity, sportsmanship, and camaraderie, and showcased the students’ talents and creativity. It also served as preparation for participation in the upcoming Federation of Agriculture Students in Mindanao (FASMin) Congress.
Soar high, J.H. Cerilles State College!
“Stronger and Bolder JHCSC for Quality Tertiary Education”
