The College of Information Technology and Computer Studies (CITCS) in partnership with the Office of the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) led this morning's flag-raising ceremony, at the PLMun quadrangle, hosted by CITCS faculty member, Mr. Sherwin Esteron.

The program commenced with an Invocation led by Mr. Paul Joshua Maglaya, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, recitation of the Panunumpa sa Watawat ng Pilipinas by Ms. Juvi Sedano, singing of Muntinlupa March and PLMun Hymn, and the recitation of the Panunumpa ng Lingkod Bayan by Ms. Kirsten Patricia V. Maglaya.

The Asst. Vice President for Technology Integration and Dean of CITCS, Assoc. Prof. Alain J. Anuevo delivered a special message on behaving professionally in the workplace. He noted that one of the best ways to become professional is to improve one's speech. According to Dean Alain, speaking professionally means speaking with confidence and clarity. It is also the ability to persuade and inform others on specific matters.

"When we speak professionally, we can help prevent misunderstanding. When we are capable of listening and accepting other's ideas, we can create a good working environment where everyone is encouraged to do better and become better", added Dean Alain.

He also mentioned that ensuring our pleasant voice tone, having a kind and right attitude, and using the right professional terms are the key components of Professional speaking.

The flag-raising ceremony was followed by the opening program for the National Women's Month celebration hosted by Ms. Alda Baarde. In an opening message, Dr. Darwin Carmelina, the PLMun GAD Focal Person mentioned the celebration's theme, "WE for Gender Equality and Inclusive Society, with the hashtag #WEcanbeEquALL.

He added that the celebration will also feature the Women's Stress Management event happening on March 14, a Webinar on Career Path and Women Empowerment in partnership with Soroptimist Alabang, and the annual Gawad Parangal para sa Kababaihan on March 30.

"We must continue to carry the banner of excellence as a caring university, where values matter," Dr. Carmelina concluded.

Another special message was delivered by the University President, Dr. Raymundo P. Arcega, CESE. He made mention of the gender inequality that is still prevalent in our society, thus the theme of desiring equality.

"No national development can be achieved if there are no women. We recognize their salient contribution to life and reproduction. We have to celebrate women's month and their lives every day," these were the closing statements of Dr. Arcega as he emphasized the need to celebrate women and their significant contribution to nation-building.

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(Photos captured by Mr. Exekiel Mariñas)