The Kapisanan ng mga Manunudlo ng Filipino sa Negros (KAMFIL-Neg) held its oathtaking ceremony for newly elected officials and the induction of members today, October 12, 2024, at the Luisa Medel Little Theater in La Consolacion College Bacolod. The event, attended by 120 members from different schools across Negros Island, was also streamed online to accommodate more participants.
The newly elected officers for 2024 are as follows:
Pangulo: Jose John Mendez, PhD
Pangalawang Pangulo: Ma. Leni C. Francisco, PhD
Kalihim: April Shane Marie P. Felongco
Ingat Yaman: Junalyn C. Libiran, PhD
Tagasuri: Felisa A. Arroz, MAEd, Khristine S. Mulleta
Tagapamayapa/PRO: Lorelyn A. Antipuesto, PhD, Anthony C. Pineda
Tagapamahala: Lara C. Osoya, Vhanie Rose Arro
Board of Directors: Anelia B. Bascos, EdD, Princes R. Maravilla, Annelee Baguna, Alliah Jairra Pascual, Everly Hope Felongco
Consultant: Mary Rose A. Bañas, EdD
Tagapayo: Edna D. Fregil, PhD
The event was graced by Atty. Omar Francis P. Demonteverde, Assistant City Legal Officer, representing the Mayor of Bacolod City. In his speech, Atty. Demonteverde emphasized the symbolic importance of the oathtaking, noting that it signifies the responsibility of the leaders in guiding the association to strengthen its mission for the benefit of students. He highlighted the essential role of KAMFIL-Neg’s members in promoting the Filipino language and safeguarding the country’s cultural heritage both inside and outside the classroom.
Dr. Edna Fregil, the founder and adviser of KAMFIL-Negros, also delivered an inspiring message about the significant role of Filipino teachers in shaping national identity. As a token of gratitude, the association presented her with a special appreciation towards the end of the program.
Outgoing president Dr. Mary Rose A. Bañas was honored for her nine years of service. She expressed her gratitude to the officers and members who supported KAMFIL-Neg throughout her term and helped in achieving the association’s goals.
Newly elected President Jose John Mendez thanked Dr. Bañas for her leadership and called on the members to support the association’s future initiatives, particularly in the programs they have lined up for the coming year. La Consolacion College Bacolod’s Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Linkages, Dr. Rodjhun Navarro, also addressed the assembly. He commended the association for its growing membership despite the challenges posed by the removal of Filipino courses from the General Education curriculum. He noted that the increase in membership is a strong testament that the Filipino language remains vibrant. Dr. Navarro also expressed LCC Bacolod’s enthusiasm to continue collaborating with KAMFIL-Neg in future research conferences, citing the success of the 7th and 8th International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR), where the association played a significant role. #RBN