𝑩𝑺𝑭 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒎 𝑯𝒐𝒍𝒅𝒔 𝑭𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕-𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝑷𝒊𝒏𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 & 𝑺𝒆𝒏𝒅-𝒐𝒇𝒇 𝑪𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑶𝑱𝑻-𝑩𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝑺𝒕𝒖𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔

The Bachelor of Science in Forestry (BSF) program, led by its Program Chair, For. Nomar A. Ramoncito held its first Pinning and Send-off Ceremony with the theme, “From Classrooms to Canopies: Nurturing Future Foresters in the Field.” The event brought together 39 third-year BSF students, who will soon begin their On-the-Job Training (OJT), along with their proud parents, at the J.H. Cerilles State College (JHCSC) Gymnasium in Mati, San Miguel, Zamboanga del Sur, on July 12, 2025.

The Student Forestry Organization facilitated the ceremony with the support of BSF Internship Coordinator Ms. Rovana M. Jawani-Ramoncito, alongside BSF faculty and staff. Dr. Jerry B. Superales, Dean of the School of Agriculture, Forestry, and Environmental Studies (SAFES) and Vice President for Research, Extension, and Resource Generation (VPRERG), graced the event.

In his inspirational message, Dean Superales reminded students of the noble calling they have chosen: “Forestry is more than just a course—it is a calling. It is a commitment to protect, conserve, and sustainably manage our precious forest resources for our present and future generations.” He encouraged the students not to grow weary in their endeavors, as their activities will hone both their intellectual and emotional intelligence in preparation for their roles as future foresters.

Ms. Jawani-Ramoncito delivered a comprehensive presentation on the Forestry Internship Overview, Roles and Responsibilities, and Program Implementation. She highlighted the internship’s objectives: Strengthen internship implementation through academe industry linkage, establish collaboration, and emphasize workplace human relations.

A key agency partner in the internship program is the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), where students will complete their 240-hour On-the-Job Training across various field offices, including CENRO Guipos, PENRO Pagadian, the DENR Regional Office, and CENRO Ramon Magsaysay.

For. Louie Francis C. Flores, DENR Representative – CENRO Guipos, presented the mandates and protocols for the internship. He commended Ms. Jawani-Ramoncito for her efficient coordination with DENR, including the timely submission of the Letter of Intent, Application for Acceptance, and full compliance with requirements that led to the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement. He also announced that orientation would be held at the respective assigned offices before the internship officially begins on June 16, 2025.

Representing the interns, Ms. Sofia Bianca Jubay delivered a heartfelt message. She described the pin they received as a pebble of their journey—symbolizing the countless hours spent in the field, their sacrifices, and their commitment. “Wear it with pride,” she encouraged fellow interns while expressing heartfelt gratitude to their parents, mentors, and peers for their unwavering support.

The Pinning and Send-off Ceremony marked a significant milestone for BSF students, signifying their readiness to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired at JHCSC and the trust and confidence bestowed upon them by their mentors as the next generation of forestry professionals.