NEWS | Stars of Excellence: The JFINEX-PUP Recognition Ceremony 2023

The Junior Financial Executives - PUP beamed Claro M. Recto Hall with pride and excellence as they held its annual awarding ceremony titled 'Transcending Stars: PUP Financial Management Community Recognition 2023' last Saturday, December 11, 2023. 

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The Junior Financial Executives - PUP beamed Claro M. Recto Hall with pride and excellence as they held its annual awarding ceremony titled 'Transcending Stars: PUP Financial Management Community Recognition 2023' last Saturday, December 11, 2023. 

The event was a stellar showcase of achievements within the PUP financial management community, honoring the outstanding accomplishments of students, faculty, and esteemed alumni.

The recognition commenced by granting students who achieved excellence in their research studies during the 2022–2023 academic year. The Best Group Presenter and Best Research Award was given to the following groups: 

Group 3 (BSBAFM 3-8s)

Group 3 (BSBAFM 3-10s)

Group 2 (BSBAFM 3-9s)

Group 2 (BSBAFM 3-2)

Group 2 (BSBAFM 3-1)

Group 6 (BSBAFM 3-7s)

Group 5 (BSBAFM 3-4)

Group 1 (BSBAFM 3-8s)

Group 3 (BSBAFM 3-3)

Group 2 (BSBAFM 3-10s)

Group 4 (BSBAFM 3-5)

For the Individual Category, ten students were deemed to receive the Best Research Presenter Award, namely: 

Krysta Lyn T. Quisao

Ashlene Jay P. De Guia

Leanne Aazil A. Aranda

Natalia Marie A. Sarcos

Dominique M. Calungcagin

Khent Raven O. Contez

Marielle Jean B. Alibugha

Paulhine A. Avenido

Mary Christine Joy A. Chua

Aurlyn A. Liwanag

These groups and individuals have not only demonstrated academic excellence but have also set a commendable standard for dedication and proficiency in research in the field of finance.

The individuals who willingly showcased their time, expertise, and commitment to assist the research endeavors of a thesis project were awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for their genuine involvement in progressing the academic enthusiasm and passion in the field studied. The thesis volunteers involved were: 

Luisa May V. Almodovar

Keanna Denise Q. Bermudo

Alliza Ashley N. Castro

Sharlene Joie V. Matrimonio

Carl Marie S. Alvarado

Emilie A. Nabablit

Raye Julianne A. Recierdo

Ira Mae R. Alhambra

Julianne Rose C. Martinez

Aira Mae T. Masangkay

Angelo N. Hufancia

Lyka C. De Villa

Ma. Luisa Nichole Z. Amador

Kyla Abbery L. Abesamis

Mary Dzajel A. Tolentino.

The Department of Financial Management has experienced notable advantages due to the dedicated contributions and motivation of dynamic student leaders, specifically from JFINEX-PUP. Mr. Mark Christian R. Santos, representing the organization's officers, graciously accepted the Certificate of Appreciation. This recognition acknowledges their commitment, extending from mentoring to assistance, enhancing the extracurricular and academic experiences of the students.

The next segment unfolded the Outstanding Student Award to Aaron James L. Aglubat, Allaine Dialino, and Princess Van Andrelle A. Galsim. The Academic Award was bestowed on Katrina Paula V. Portillo. The Student Leadership Award was given to Sasha Mitchell J. Castro and Jeanelle L. Pagtalunan. They have shown great potential in imparting integrity to the educational institution.

To honor the four consecutive years of service in the FM, the prestigious Leadership Award was granted to John Lawrence A. Abello and Kristine Joy Israel, former presidents of the JFINEX-PUP. Their commitment and passion to inspire and lead as role models will be a legacy to shape the future of Financial Management in PUP—an indelible mark of the lasting impact of their contributions and leadership.

Going beyond academics, financial management students have also displayed their athletic skills and remarkable sportsmanship in different fields of sports. The following teams have shown their exemplary individual and teamwork skills on and off the field:

Basketball:

Justin Yam Santos

Trazer John A. Araojo

John Rafael C. Isidro

Vincent Dave O. Bariuan

Jan Immanuel D. Volante

Wyn Ford Q. Lumbao

Men's Volleyball:

Jean Denmar L. Baguisi

Charles Jerome A. Gagno

Marcuz Allen D. Ignacio

John Kyle R. Nazarrea

Joshua P. Sitjar

Ramil E. Decrepito

Women's Volleyball Team:

Pamela Anne C. Bongalonta

Davy M. Calusin

Eunice Jamilah A. Dela Peña

Jasmin C. Ignacio

Jhelai M. Marcos

Anne Phoebe D. Batalon

Patricia Nicole S. Gamas

Sandara Kate S. Gonzales

Badminton:

Luiza B. Bernaldez

Sarah Mae V. Matados.

In pursuit of transparency and a strategic roadmap, Dr. Ria Fajilago enlightened the audience regarding the Year-end Report and Development Plan of the Department of Financial Management. It consists of a blueprint for maintaining the Level 4 Accreditation of the program, which was recently re-accredited. 

All programs to be constructed in this plan will be based on the umbrella program ‘FINAHUSAY,’ constituting Harmonized programs with the ten pillars of PUP, Upskilling students and faculty of the department, Systematized procedures and guidelines, Advocate financial literacy and awareness, and Yield recognitions. 

It consists of initiatives and subcategories in support of the five areas of accreditation: 1) FINAdama for Extension; 2) FINAsaliksik for Research; 3) FINAalam for Teaching and Learning; 4) FINAlawak for Internationalization; and 5) FINAayos for Well-developed Objectives. 

As the ceremony shifts to the introduction of the DFM Faculty for the academic year 2023-2024, the spotlight turned towards the educators and mentors who play a significant role in carving both the academic and professional journey of financial management students at PUP. In line with this, the Outstanding Faculty Award was awarded to Dr. Allan A. Calderon and Prof. Darren D. Cortez.

The expertise and guidance of the DFM faculty lay the foundation for the continued excellence that defines the PUP FM community. To honor their service and commitment to academic excellence, the Excellent Faculty Service Award was given to Dr. Ria S. Fajilago, Dr. Henry B. Prudente, Prof. Realin C. Aranza, Assoc. Prof. Bernadette M. Panibio, and Prof. Aris G. Norberte.

In recognition of their unwavering efforts and outstanding contributions that surpass conventional expectations, the Extra Mile Award was bestowed upon Prof. Daren D. Cortez, Dr. Allan A. Calderon, and Prof. Rolando I. Fernandez. Their relentless dedication has played a significant role in realizing the department's development plan.

The Certificate of Lifetime Appreciation was bestowed upon two individuals, including retired professors, former DFM administrators or employees, or non-DFM personalities, who have rendered overwhelming support. The award was given to Mr. Vic Bulan and Mr. Onofre Marcos Jr. as a sincere expression of gratitude for the lasting impact and steadfast support that these people have given, providing an enduring legacy for the DFM community.

Amidst the celebration of excellence, the ceremony continued as it ascended emphasis toward the PUP Financial Management Alumni Association, Incorporated (PUPFMAAI), introduced by the organization's President and outstanding alumnus, Mr. Gem Galapar. His path from the corridors of PUP to the pinnacles of success serves as an inspiration to all. 

In his words, "We are here to bring the corporate world to you." His presence and wisdom of experience provided the event of his integrated legacy—connecting the past with future aspirations.

The fourth awarding portion recognizes their remarkable accomplishments and the beneficial impact they've made in their careers, among other things. The Outstanding Alumni Award honors their firm commitment to becoming constant beacons of pride, motivating the present and future members of the academic community. It was conferred to the following alumni: Arthur Gozum, Iylmer Pontejos, Lloyd Christian Calvario, Randy Borbe, and Agape Genio.

These outstanding alumni have shared their words in inspiring the audience of the ceremony. Most were noteworthy, emphasizing how the current life of FM students will shape their future in the finance and corporate world. 

In a quote from Mr. Randy Borbe, he remarked, "Don't be afraid to take the  small steps; they'll take you to big stages like this one." His words encouraged the aspiring individuals in the audience,  underscoring the necessity of embracing the journey and understanding the transforming impact of incremental growth.

Mr. Lloyd Christian Calvario likewise expressed some tips after graduating—that despite being sought after by companies—we must apply equal efforts, such as upskilling ourselves in the changing and challenging world, to better ourselves. “The life you built here will last you a lifetime,” he said. 

As a token of appreciation, all student, faculty, and alumni awardees have received Belo Products, Vitamins, and a 20% exclusive discount on interiors and curtains designed by Mondragon House.

Behind excellence lies the key individuals—dedicated people who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to orchestrate this grand celebration of achievements. It includes JFINEX-PUP officers as follows:

Executive Heads:

Mr. Mark Christian Santos

Ms. Kirsten Joyce Q. Roberts

Ms. Kutleia Abby B. Ancheta

Human Resources Department:

Ms. Emerose D.Echon

Ms. Kyna Joy G. Cruz

Ms. Angel Jesaiah L. Salumbides

Ms. Erica M. Rodelas

Finance and Audit Department:

Ms. Princess Jane P. Capilastique

Ms. Lea C. Vargas

Mr. John Paul A. Maliwat

Ms. Jhonna Lien P. Elorde

Ms. Daryl Mey N. Manalo

Mr. Sherwin Paul R. Padillon

Publicity Department:

Mr. Clint Justin N. Aribara

Ms. Joana Mae T. Rinon

Marketing Department:

Ms. Ella Mae C. Rivera

Ms. Pauline Nicole C. Cambal

Ms. Aira Faye R. Galarde

Year Level Representatives:

Mr. John Kirby T. Valmores

Ms. Xyza R. Fullante

Ms. Demi-Rae Camacho

Ms. Geraldin B. Almazan

Ms. Jeanelle L. Pagtalunan

Ms. Kristine Joy Israel

Ms. Dominique M. Calungcagin

Chairman of the Junior Officers:

Ms. Daphne Char P. De Guzman

Co-Chairman:

Ms. Julla Angeli J. Gerodias

Committee Department’s Junior Officer:

Ms. Nathalia Sofia D. Violata

Along with the JFINEX-PUP officers are volunteers from its sub-organizations: Elite Singers, JFINEX Creatives, The Luminary, and FINEX Dance Company, who have contributed to the flow and preparation of the recognition ceremony.

The last and final awarding constitutes the highest and most prestigious award granted by the DFM, surpassing traditional benchmarks and on par with the recognition deserving of an Honorary Award—The DFM Pillar Award. 

It was granted to:  Dr. Henry B. Prudente for his remarkable 21 years of service to the Department of Financial Management, Dr. Ria S. Fajilago for her outstanding 24 years of commitment, Prof. Bernadette M. Panibio, who has dedicated an impressive 36 years, and Prof. Realin C. Aranza who has devoted 40 years of her life.

They have the unabated portrayal of unrivaled commitment to the long-term development of the department, visioning its history from past to future endeavors. Indeed, they have been profoundly shaping the trajectory of the department—a befitting pillar of inspiration for everybody.

Aside from the achievements in academics, sports, profession, and leadership, the ceremony also showcased talents and aesthetics. To acknowledge the efforts of awardees and participants in dressing up for the event, two "Stars of the Day" were chosen—Ashlene De Guia and John Lawrence Abello. They were deemed best dressed on the day of the event and received PHP 1,000 in cash each as a token of appreciation.

Furthermore, the JFINEX Elite Singers led the doxology while members of the FINEX Dance Company also prepared and presented their intermission number as entertainment in between awarding segments. They were students exhibiting voices and dance moves of incredible talents.