Now in its third series of implementation, the University of Baguio‘s Bachelor of Arts in English Language (BAEL) promotes creative and liberated expression through academic learning and transformation via the Empowering Expression, Critical Thinking, Engagement, and Leadership in English (EXCEL) series, which is part of its Student Development Program (SDP).
The program, which showcases talent and basic training for student leaders, prospects, and representatives from the School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (STELA), held two seminars on March 12, 2026, at the FGB Hall of the university. These seminars were part of the experiential learning sequence and provided a meaningful exchange of learning experiences through engagements and opportunities to explore both the creative and practical aspects of language and its specificities.
Alt Text: Highlights from the University of Baguio’s EXCEL Series 3, hosted by the Bachelor of Arts in English Language Program
Championing Through the English Language
The morning session, entitled ‘Ink to Spotlight,’ featured theater artist, director, and educator Katherine Nobleza-Estavillo, who delivered a seminar on dramatic writing and performance.
Emphasizing how theatre creates a profound sense of language and literature to be experienced through conversation, movement, and teamwork, all while discussing the principles of turning written screenplays into stage shows. Additionally, Ms. Katherine discussed her experiences in theatre, including her involvement with different plays and her position as artistic director and trainer under Saint Louis University’s Tanghalang SLU performing arts group.
The afternoon session brought out Nihongo instructor Ms. Danielle Hannah R. Malitao, from the University of the Cordilleras, to explore and give strategies in foreign language learning. Titled ‘Lost in Translation: Navigating the Road to Fluency,’ the talk explores the challenges and tested strategies for learning a foreign language. The talk draws inspiration from her experience teaching language and communication subjects. She encouraged students to view foreign language learning as a game, one where learners may win or lose but continue enjoying the process, rather than a strict piano lesson that requires rigid adherence to convention.
Alt Text: Guest Speakers from the EXCEL Series 3, hosted by the UB Bachelor of Arts in English Language Program
The commitment to quality education and inclusive enrichment opportunities expresses itself through implementation and supportive efforts that champion Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number 4. It also involves collaborating with professionals and institutions to deliver educational initiatives that prepare students for a more global and interconnected world, as expressed by goal number 17.
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Written by: Kristine Gabrielle Banggawan
Article Enhancement by: Gabriel Madriaga
