Saint Mary’s University (SMU) proudly celebrates the outstanding achievements of its Capacity Building Program in Science and Mathematics Education (CBPSME) graduate scholars, who were recognized during the 2026 In Touch with Excellence national tribute organized by the Department of Science and Technology–Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI). The annual event honors the dedication, academic excellence, and transformative contributions of scholar-graduates to advancing STEM education in the Philippines.

The gathering was highlighted by inspiring messages from distinguished leaders in science and education, who reminded the awardees that scientific excellence must go hand in hand with ethical responsibility and service to society. DOST-SEI Director Dr. Jayeel S. Cornelio challenged the graduates to look beyond academic achievement, emphasizing that moral integrity is at the heart of true leadership. In his address, he said:

“Hindi maaaring matalino ka lamang, dapat mabuting tao ka rin.” Dr. Cornelio urged the awardees to remain steadfast in their commitment to justice and the common good, using their knowledge and expertise to help address society’s pressing challenges.

Echoing this call to purposeful service, Keynote Speaker Dr. Rowena Cristina L. Guevara, Undersecretary of the Department of Energy, shared valuable insights drawn from her 41 years of public service. Encouraging the scholars to lead with grit, humility, and purpose, she offered this heartfelt advice:

“I hope you find something that brings you pure joy and gives meaning to the work and life ahead of you.”

During the awarding ceremony, Dr. Melanie G. Sarmiento, CBPSME Project Director of Saint Mary’s University, and Dr. Monera A. Salic-Hairulla, CBPSME Project Director of MSU-IIT, assisted Engr. Alberto G. Mariño, DOST-SEI Deputy Director, conferred the prestigious awards on scholars.

Saint Mary’s University proudly congratulates its 2026 DOST-SEI CBPSME Awardees!

Doctor of Philosophy in Science Education Graduates

• Ella Tricia M. Aquino – PhD Sci. Ed. (Mathematics)
• Somerson C. Kis-ing – PhD Sci. Ed. (Mathematics)
• Allan Gregy V. Balic – PhD Sci. Ed. (Biology)
• April B. Tuliao – PhD Sci. Ed. (Mathematics)

Master of Science in Teaching Graduates

• Christony G. Duyapat – MST-Mathematics, Magna Cum Laude
• Nover Luke T. Saludares – MST-Mathematics, Cum Laude

The SMU community proudly commends these exceptional scholars for bringing immense honor to the University. May they continue to lead with moral courage, advance scientific innovation, and serve as beacons of Marian excellence in education and public service.

Congratulations, CBPSME scholars! Your achievement is a testament to the power of excellence, purpose, and service.