The University of Baguio successfully concluded its Giving Recognition for Excellent Service, Achievement, and Talents of Student Assistants and Marshals (G.R.E.A.T. SA and SM) activity, held last November 29, 2025, at the University of Baguio Gymnasium. This landmark event prominently featured a key, heartfelt segment: the Tribute to Graduating Student Assistants (SAs) and Marshals.
Recognition Beyond Student Compensation
Efficiently organized by the Human Resource Management Center (HRMC), in collaboration with the Society of Working Scholars (SWS Officers) and the Security Office, the program aimed to recognize the invaluable contributions of the university’s working scholars. Having the activity rooted in psychological and organizational principles, the formal recognition is a powerful strategy to enhance and strengthen organizational commitment, motivation, and retention. Recognizing the students for their service moves beyond simple transactional compensation to embrace relational and developmental aspects, all while preparing them for their future careers.
Alt Text: Retired PCOL Leon P. Taleo, the former Regional Chief of the CIDG, Cordillera (left), and UB President, Dr. Javier Herminio D Bautista (right), giving their speech during the recognition event
The importance of the working scholars was immediately highlighted with the opening address by the University President, Dr. Javier Herminio D. Bautista, starting off the message by congratulating the graduating Student Assistants and Marshals and their parents/guardians, who were invited as distinguished guests for the event.
Sharing the history and background of the Student Assistant and Marshal program, recounting its growth and the increasing number of beneficiaries. President Javier reminded scholars of the importance of valuing their opportunity, being among the select few chosen for the program.
Inspiring Institutional Paths to Success
A major highlight of the tribute segment was the inclusion of inspirational talks from successful alumni who were once working scholars themselves. These resource speakers provided living testaments to how perseverance and hard work lead to successful careers. The first resource speaker was Retired PCOL Leon P. Taleo, the former Regional Chief of the CIDG, Cordillera, and a proud former Student Marshal of the University of Baguio. PCOL Taleo’s journey served as a powerful example. Sharing the steps to overcome challenges and including the personal take on various part-time jobs like shoe shining and running errands in addition to his duties as a marshal/scholar, all to support his studies.
Mr. Taleo proudly assured the parents of the graduating scholars of the needed recognition in entrusting their children to the program and the university, emphasizing that the institution consistently produces successful individuals like him. This moment of recognition, which includes a tribute performance and the formal awarding of certificates to the graduating scholars, fosters a stronger sense of perceived organizational support and belonging, ensuring these high-performing students leave the university feeling valued and prepared for their next chapter.
The second inspirational talk was delivered by Ms. Marieta Collintas Alvarez, the current Division Head of the Baguio City Treasury Office. Ms. Alvarez’s journey held profound personal significance for the audience, as she was a former Student Assistant under the President’s Office of the university.
Alt Text: Student Assistants with Ms. Judy-an Im-motna, HRMC (left), and Ms. Marieta Collintas Alvarez, division head, Baguio City Treasury Office (right), during the recognition event
Her tenure as a dedicated working scholar from 1988 to 1991 meant her success story began right where the current graduating scholars were sitting. Standing before the graduating SAs and Marshals, Ms. Alvarez shared how her experience in balancing rigorous studies with the responsibilities of service set a robust foundation for her esteemed career in the city government. Emphasizing the qualities that were honed during their time as working scholars. Hard work, perseverance, and a spirit of service are essential keys to opening doors to meaningful and impactful careers.
Her message was a reminder to the scholars to be well-prepared when the “true battle of career starts.” Ms. Alvarez ended her impactful speech by encouraging the scholars to embrace every challenge, knowing that dedication will invariably lead to success.
A significant highlight of the day was the moving tribute to graduating SAs and SMs. It proved to be a deeply memorable experience, particularly for the parents and guardians of the graduating scholars, who proudly accompanied their wards onto the stage. Each student received their certificates and tokens, a symbolic recognition of their dedicated service to the UB community while successfully managing their studies and enjoying the benefits of their scholarship.
Alt Text: Highlights and awards from the recently conducted Giving Recognition for Excellent Service, Achievement, and Talents of Student Assistants and Marshals (G.R.E.A.T. SA and SM) activity, held at the University of Baguio
Inclusive and Goal-Oriented Success
The very existence of the Student Assistant and Marshal program profoundly aligns with two major Sustainable Development Goals, SDG 4 (Quality Education), by offering scholarships in exchange for service. In doing so, the university is actively reducing financial barriers to higher education, ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education, and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.
The program exemplifies a commitment to academic access for financially challenged but deserving students. The program also highlights SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), wherein the roles of SAs and Marshals provide students with practical, on-the-job experience and professional soft skills.
The awarding ceremony was gracefully facilitated by Ms. Judy-an Q. Im-motna, the Student Welfare Services (SWS) Adviser. She was joined on stage by key university officials, including Ms. Mary Joy Bulatao-Limpin, the HR Director; Mr. Jayton Anae, the Director of the Security Office; and one of the Resource Speakers, PCOL Leon P. Talleo.
The event was a resounding success, fostering a deep sense of community and appreciation for the dedication of the students who contribute significantly to the university’s daily operations. The university ensures these high-performing students leave the institution feeling not only valued but also thoroughly prepared for their next professional chapter.
