The Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST – SEI) conducted a 5-day national scholars leadership camp last November 12 – 16, 2025 for graduate scholars under the Capacity Building Program in Science and Mathematics Education (CBPSME) at Glory Hotel, Pampanga.
The first day of the CBPSME Scholar Leadership Camp began with a session by Mr. Robby L. Reyes, who discussed Values: What Define Us, encouraging scholars to reflect on the principles that shape personal and professional conduct. This was followed by an engaging activity facilitated by Ms. Rosejelynn C. Bulante, which allowed participants to practically explore and internalize these values. Later, Dr. Segundo Joaquin E. Borromeo Jr. led a discussion on the second SLC core value, social responsibility, emphasizing youth participation, citizenship, and democracy. He addressed pressing national issues, including flooding, corruption, and poverty, while scholars participated in activities aimed at identifying solutions and strengthening their sense of civic responsibility.
The activities for the second day were designed to deepen the scholars’ understanding of servant-leadership and professional excellence. Dr. Xiao Chua delivered a lecture on the scientist’s role as a Filipino patriot and servant leader, emphasizing the responsibility of scholars in nation-building. This was followed by an interactive GRIT workshop aimed at strengthening resilience and perseverance. Engr. Bernie C. Cangrejo further highlighted the importance of maintaining professional excellence as a core value of DOST-SEI scholars. The day concluded with a session on Growth Mindset and Self-Leadership, encouraging continuous improvement and proactive leadership. Collectively, the sessions offered a meaningful blend of conceptual insights and practical leadership development.
The concluding day of the CBPSME Scholar Leadership Camp brought together a series of reflective and inspiring activities that highlighted the program’s core values. The day began with Zumba and spirited team yells, followed by alumni testimonials facilitated by Dr. Michael Charleston “Xiao” Chua, emphasizing patriotism and national service. Dr. Jayeel S. Cornelio then delivered an insightful session on personal excellence, underscoring resilience, purposeful living, and the importance of giving back. Under the guidance of Engr. Bernie C. Cangrejo, scholars developed personal vision statements rooted in servant-leadership. The camp concluded with the Star Gaze reflection, the Pinning and Graduation Ceremony, the Candle Lighting and Credo Recitation, and the Balik Tanaw Community Dance—bringing the transformative experience to a meaningful close.
The CBPSME scholars from WMSU—Ms. April Joy B. Atilano, Ms. Luiscele Mae O. Barrios, Ms. Rhyza A. Espiga, and Ms. Richelle Faith B. Gealon—took part in the highly anticipated 2025 DOST-SEI National Leadership Camp, accompanied by their dedicated project staff, Ms. Ryanna B. Damsalin. The scholars’ participation was strongly supported and guided by their project director, Dr. Mohammad Nur S. Paspasan, whose mentorship and encouragement contributed to making the event a truly enriching and memorable experience for all.
Fueled by passion and dedication, the scholars embodied the spirit of DOST-SEI—leading with integrity, serving with purpose, and shaping a brighter future for the nation. Agham na Ramdam Para sa Bayan! (RYANNA B. DAMSALIN, MOHAMMAD NUR S. PASPASAN, Ph.D.)
