May 2020

BSIS Holds its First Webinar on MC N Tech…

Last April 2, 2022, the webinar on the Fundamentals of Robotics was held and conducted through a virtual setting via Zoom, which is one of the online platforms to conduct seminars and classes in this time of pandemic. The webinar began with a simple but a heartfelt prayer followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem. After which, Mr. Prince Ace L. Cutaran, the Program Chair of the College of Business, delivered his opening remarks connected to the central theme of the webinar. As the opening speech was concluded, Engr. Erwin G. Santos, one of the activity coordinators, formally introduced the resource speaker, Mr. Allan De Guzman, who would be sharing his precious time to impart his knowledge and invaluable experience acquired through the years in the field of Information Technology.

Throughout the webinar, the resource speaker discussed the relevant facts about the fundamentals of robotics wherein the participants were able to understand thoroughly the benefits of these latest developments in technology as far as our daily lives and the progress of our society are concerned.  

To name a few, it enhances how people can be able to apply technology with confidence and to utilize it through innovative means. It also helps shape the student’s ingenuity and imagination as well as develop their skills, which are rather indispensable in achieving their academic goals, especially in the fields of Science, Mathematics and Engineering. It is vital for the students to be fully equipped with these recent innovations, particularly in the field of robotics engineering so as to sustain their progress in terms of programming and professional development. To educate further, Mr. De Guzman discussed the history of robotics, which was necessary to deepen the understanding of the participants regarding the central topic. 

However, robotics does not only focus on how it can help an individual do his/her tasks immediately and efficiently or a business/company to be efficient and productive, but it also strengthens the system of every educational institution. Aside from the fact that it helps nurture the skills of every student, it is one of the most effective strategies for students to become technologically literate or to become inclined to technology. In this sense, teachers could adopt vital teaching methods to help widen students’ knowledge in different subjects, particularly Science, Math and Computer. With the integration of robotics, students will become more interested to delve deeper in their studies as they find the activities more fascinating and engaging that help implement lively discussions. Yes, they will engage more through the motivational effects of robotics as it excites them to learn more enthusiastically and to acquire more skills efficiently. Moreover, robotics in education engages every student to develop cooperation among their peers. 

Lastly, Mr. De Guzman discussed the different areas of robotics where students could adopt in their chosen fields to fully strengthen their skills and deepen their knowledge that will make them more productive. Consequently, they will be able to successfully achieve their academic goals.  

True enough, the topics that Mr. De Guzman had discussed were really informative because students could get vital knowledge necessary for their chosen courses. Though some of the participants found it difficult to stay put due to the intermittent internet connection, it never hindered each one of them from gleaning from the rich information that the resource speaker had imparted. Indeed, it was really a productive time listening to the benefits and advantages that robotics could provide to every individual in society. 

Conclusively, the webinar on the Fundamentals of Robotics was successfully conducted through the initiation of every spokesperson in the said event. It was concluded with the closing remarks of Mr. Jestony S. Alvarez, one of the activity coordinators who graciously contributed his part in making the webinar successful. Yes, with the concerted effort of the activity coordinators, the active participation of students and most especially, the invaluable input of the resource speaker, the webinar was worth spending precious time with.

August 2020

Best Paper Award in 2021 IMRC

Dr. Richard L. Oandasan, the Academic Director and Mr. Christian M. Santiago, the Research and Extension Coordinator as well as the interim academic secretary, received the Best Paper Award in the recently concluded 2021 International Multidisciplinary Research Colloquium (IMRC) held last August 10-11, 2021 via online teleconferencing. Sharing the recognition with them was Ms. Pauline Kay S. Gaya, a senior high school faculty member who also participated in the event.

Their paper titled “Thriving amid the pandemic: Learners’ perceived assessment of the remote flexible learning program (ReFlex-LeaP) using the Technological, Pedagogical, and Content Knowledge (TPCK) Model”, vesting other 24 papers in the education cluster, was hailed as outstanding by the panel of evaluators based on its content, significance, contribution to the field, and the researchers’ oral presentation.

The aim of the paper was to assess the effectiveness of the implementation of the ReFlex-LeaP, Midway’s first phase of the learning continuity plan in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The results obtained from the research serve as basis for improving the curriculum, delivery of instruction, learning management system, faculty competence, and most importantly, the teaching-learning experience of the primary stakeholders of the institution – the students.

The 2021 IMRC, anchored on the theme “Strengthening Research for a Better Normal,” was organized by the President Ramon Magsaysay State University (PRMSU), Zambales. The event aimed to gather scholars, researchers, practitioners, students, and other stakeholders from various disciplines to share their scholarly works and research. Adding prestige to the event were the keynote address of Her Excellency Vice President Maria “Leni” Robredo and the plenary talk of international speakers from Indonesia, Nigeria, South Korea, and the USA.

#Congratulations

#Excellence

June 2020

International Commercial Terms 2020

The International Commercial Terms (Incoterms) is the largest business organization in the world published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) that promotes and facilitates domestic and international trade transactions. Incoterms are internationally accepted commercial terms used to clearly describe obligations, risks, and costs of parties (buyer and seller) involved in the transactions and those responsible for the transportation arrangement and payment of transportation fees and/or charges over the goods. These Incoterms rules also prevent confusion in commercial trade contracts.

The Bachelor of Science in Customs Administration under the College of Business conducted a webinar exclusive for the BSCA Student entitled “International Commercial Terms 2020”, last April 22, 2021, via MS Teams. This webinar aimed to enhance students’ skills in applying the principles of International Commercial Terms 2020.

The 3-hour lecture was led by CB Roberto T. Domondon, AB, LL. B, MBA who is currently the CEO and Chief Advocate of CUSTOMS AND LOGISTICS ADVOCATES OF THE PHILIPPINES, INC. in coordination with the Student Organization which is the PSCAS-MIDWAY CHAPTER.  His expertise and experiences in the field was truly shared to the participants, the students and the faculties are more likely planning to have more webinar.

The said webinar was spearheaded by the Customs Administration faculty members. This is the 2nd webinar that the department has conducted to keep the students abreast with latest and best practices in their chosen program and field in general amidst of the prevailing restrictions.

Truly a feat for the department!

#DRIVENAduana

June 2020

Computation of Revenue Tons, Chargeable weight & Conversion of…

The Philippine Society of Customs Administration Students (PSCAS) – Midway Colleges (MCi) – Chapter in partnership with CLAP Customs Review & Center for Professional Development Inc., conducted a 3-hour webinar entitled “COMPUTATION OF REVENUE TONS, CHARGEABLE WEIGHT AND CONVERSION OF TARIFF UNITS” which was participated by BSCA students at Midway Colleges last February 26, 2020, via Zoom. The lecture was led by Prof. Ruben C. Pedreza, EE, CB, MCA, who is currently the CEO/Review Director of CLAP Review & Center for Professional Development Inc., and the Pedreza Customs and Tariff Webinars.

It aimed to enhance the student’s skills in the proper computation of units of conversion, revenue ton and chargeable weight as applied on importation cases and to keep the students abreast with the latest developments, implementation, and updates in the field.

The discussion was fully engaging because there were questions raised during the discussion which every student must answer and after the webinar proper the coordinators facilitated a workshop wherein the students were required to answer the questions with a passing grade of 80% to assess their understanding of the webinar topics. On that way, they were able to apply their skills in computing units of conversion, revenue ton and chargeable weight as applied on importation cases.

Truly a feat for the department!

#DRIVENAduana

June 2020

Customs Administration’s first Webinar series

Bachelor of Science in Customs Administration program develops the academic prowess of its students and molds them accordingly to become community-caring individuals founded by integrity, professionalism, and discipline. As part of its commitment that “No one should be left behind”, the College of Business is dedicated to immerse students on the current trends in the industry. 

The College conducted a webinar series last June 1-3 entitled “Acing the Job Interview: Basic Tips and Guidelines” which features the latest trends and practices of Job Application in the new normal which contributes to the development of the student interns in an academic perspective and as a preparation to their future undertakings as License Customs Brokers. 

“Write to not to impress but to express”, these are the candor words that Dr. Richard L. Oandasan said on the first session of the three-day webinar series with the topic of “Making the First Impression: Cover Letter and Resume Writing Conventions”. During the discussion, he gave tips on writing an effective cover letter. He also highlighted the 4C’s which must be present in the cover letter: Clarity, Completeness, Conciseness, and Courtesy. In addition, he also shared the Do’s and Don’ts in creating a resume because as he stated “resume is someone’s masterpiece”. 

The second session happened on June 2 which focused on “Setting a Professional Mindset: Preparations and Considerations” with Ms. Ellen Gay I. Singson, HR Director, as the Resource Speaker. In her talk, she encouraged everyone to always excel in everything that they do, as there is no elevator to success. She also leaved this message to everyone “The difference of who we are and what we want to be, is what we do today”. 

Mixed emotions- this is how the participants describe the third session of the webinar series which is the Interview Preparation Workshop. In this session, the participants attended a virtual interview to apply the learning they got from the previous discussions and to enhance their communication and reasoning skills as they present themselves in the interviewers. The interviewing panel includes the Customs Administration Faculty members and a Guest interviewer in the person of Mr. Robie Mar A. Dayto, General Education Coordinator. 

The supplementary webinars does not just stop here because more are still coming! Clearance Procedure on Consumption Entry on June 28 and “Transcending Customs Broker: Profession and Opportunitieson July 16. This is how the College of Business show its commitment in delivering EXCELLENCE. 

 

#DRIVENAduana 

June 2020

Global Trade Knowledge with Customs Administration

Hear ye!

We are proud to present to you our partnership with eKonek Pilipinas Inc. for the Summer Internship Program 2021!

Want a glimpse of the field of Customs Administration?

Have you caught the circulating issue on gift importation by a certain personality? If so, this article is for you!

According to the law, Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (RA 10863), Sec. 104, first par. “When Duty and Tax are Due on Imported Goods. —Except as otherwise provided for in this Act or in other laws, ALL goods, when imported into the Philippines, shall be subject to duty upon Importation, including goods previously exported from the Philippines.”

For wider public information, the Bureau of Customs have published an infomercial for Frequently Asked Questions on Importation of Gifts: https://bit.ly/2SZgNbP

Here is the text of the FAQs as published:

1. Do I have to pay taxes for packages sent as gifts?

Duties and taxes are imposed on ALL imported goods, regardless of the mode of acquisition or how these were acquired, except those with value not exceeding P10,000.00 and those exempted by other laws. (RA 10863, Sec 104 and 423)

2. When is proof of payment needed for the importation of gifts?

The Bureau of Customs has the rights to ascertain the truth or accuracy of any statement, document, or declaration presented for customs valuation purposes, thus, it may ask the importer or receiver to provide further explanations, including documents or other evidence that the declared value represents the actual price of the item. (RA 10863, Sec 707)

3. What are the other options if proof of payment, such as a receipt, cannot be submitted because the item(s) is/are gifts?

The value of the goods will be determined based on the established or reference value of the same or similar goods. (RA 10863, Sec. 701 par. 2, 702 and 703)

4. Why do I still have to pay tax when the sender already paid at the country of origin?

The payment made to the country of origin is referred to as “Export Duties and Taxes” subject to their own rules and regulations. On the other hand, “Import Duties and Taxes” are payable in the Philippines, as enforced by the Bureau of Customs.

5. Do I still have to pay tax when the sender already paid for the shipping cost?

The shipping cost is charged by the nominated courier for the delivery and handling of packages from abroad to the Philippines and is different from the import duties and taxes due to the Bureau of Customs.

6. If I will not pay duties and taxes, what will happen to my package?

When the duties and taxes have not been paid within the prescribed period, the parcels will be considered abandoned and forfeited in favor of the government. Thereafter, it will be sold at auction or disposed accordingly. If the goods are regulated, these will be turned over to the concerned regulatory agency. (RA 10863, Sec. 1129 (c), 1141 and 1148)

Be globally competent! Be an International Trade Specialist!

Enroll Customs Administration in Midway Colleges, Inc.!

 

#DRIVENAduana Source: https://customs.gov.ph/faqs-on-importation-of-gifts/

May 2020

MUP 2020 Rabiya Mateo in her National Costume

HAVE YOU MOVED ON FROM RABIYA’S NATIONAL COSTUME? 

Did she violate the Philippine Flag Law? 

(Picture from Rabiya’s Instagram)

It is indeed hard to forget Ms. Rabiya Mateo’s plumed ensemble of vibrant blue and red during the national costume event of the 2020 Miss Universe Pageant. The colors, the golden yellow stars, embellishments, and two-colored strappy heels are eye-catchers.  The costume itself is said to be a progressive take on representing the Philippines by the late avant-garde designer Rocky Gothercole. Preview magazine described it as “a vision of a winged goddess representing the Philippine flag in a feather-adorned frock”.  Would you have guessed that such would be a costume for a Philippine delegate to Miss U? 

This design elicited murmuring reactions and social media came alive with differing opinions whether its wearer violated the Philippine Flag Law. Butuan City-based influencer Jam Magno reportedly twitted on May 14, 2021, that the Filipina delegate, “didn’t seem to know one important law:  to never use make use of our flag as Costume other than put it on a flagpole”.  On the same day, lawyer Tony Roman III posted on social media his reply to a question asked by a netizen, “Mali ba ang costume ni Rabiya Mateo?“. Atty. Roman responded, “Under RA 8491, it is prohibited to wear the Philippine flag in whole or in part as costume or uniform. Pero yung costume ni Ms. Rabiya, inspired lang by the Philippine flag, kasi may mga elemento ng Philippine flag. At yung costume niya, creative interpretation of the Philippine flag by an artist, which is protected speech in Bill of Rights in our Constitution“. 

What’s your take on whether this costume is or is not a lawbreaker?

Let’s have a closer look at the Philippine Flag Law before we head on to different directions. 

(Picture from GMA Network)

The Philippine Flag Law or RA 8491 is just among the mouthful bites of Philippine laws that each Filipino should take time to read, understand, and heartedly appreciate.  Republic Act No. 8491 An Act Prescribing the Code of the National Flag, Anthem, Motto, Coat-of-Arms and Other Heraldic Items and Devices of the Philippines (we did say it was a mouthful)  tells us the lawful ways of treating our flag, national anthem, official seal, other heraldic items which include “appropriate coat-of-arms, administrative seals, logo, insignia, badges, patches, banners and initiate awards, citations, orders or decorations, as may be authorized by the Congress or the Office of the President” (Sec. 44, Ch. VI, RA 8491). 

This law describes how “(r)everence and respect shall at all times be accorded the flag, the anthem, and other national symbols which embody the national ideals and traditions and which express the principles of sovereignty and national solidarity. The heraldic items and devices shall seek to manifest the national virtues and to inculcate in the minds and hearts of our people a just pride in their native land, fitting respect and affection for the national flag and anthem, and the proper use of the national motto, coat-of-arms, and other heraldic items and devices”  (Sec. 2, RA 8491). 

In particular to the Philippine flag, Sec. 34 lists prohibited acts as follows: 

SECTION 34. It shall be prohibited  

  • To mutilate, deface, defile, trample, on or cast contempt any act or  omission casting dishonor or ridicule upon the flag over its surface;  
  • To dip the flag to any person or object by way of compliment or salute;
  •  To use the flag:  
    1. As a drapery, festoon, tablecloth 
    2. As covering for ceilings, walls, statues or otherobjects; 
    3. As a pennant in the hood, side, back and top of motorvehicles; 
    4. As a staff orwhip;  
    5. For unveiling monuments or statues; and 
    6. As trademarks or for industrial, commercial or agricultural labels or  designs. 
  • Display the flag:   
    1. Under any painting orpicture; 
    2. Horizontally face-up. It shall always be hoisted aloft and be allowed to  fall freely;  
    3. Below any platform; or 
    4. In discotheques, cockpits, night and day clubs, casinos, gambling joints,  and places of vice or where frivolity prevails. 
  • To wear the flag in whole or in part as a costume or uniform; 
  • To add any word, figure, mark, picture, design, drawings, advertisements, or  imprint of any nature on the flag;  
  • To print, paint or attach representation of the flag on handkerchiefs, napkins, cushions, and other articles of merchandise;  
  • To display in public any foreign flag, except in embassies and other  diplomatic establishments, and in offices of international organizations.  
  • To use, display or be part of any advertisement of infomercial; and 
  • To display the flag in front of buildings or offices occupied by aliens.

Any person or organization in violation of any provision of the Heraldic Code may be penalized. Penalties include public censure, payment of fines up to Php 20,000.00, and imprisonment depending on the severity of the offense.   

May 2020

BS in Customs Administration – eKonek Pilipinas Experient: Sandbox…

Hear ye!

We are proud to present to you our partnership with eKonek Pilipinas Inc. for the Summer Internship Program 2021!

How can an educational institution provide quality and alternative internship among students during these restrictive times?

We made sure that competencies are met thru integration of technology and strategic frameworks are laid out, hence, the Experient: Sandbox Portal. Here in Midway Colleges, Inc., we ensure that education is always topnotch and transformative!

It is our shared objectives:

  • To help the students develop the knowledge and skills in the field of trade, transportation and 
    supply chain management by way of exploration and experimentation on real technology 
    solutions and its applicability to their chosen field.
  • To help students to have appropriate educational foundation, effective independent mentoring 
    and appropriate meta curricular balance 
    Let us present to you the key features of this transformative technology:
  • Individual and unique User Management/Administrator rights access to the various e-Konek VASP 
    systems per student.
  • Access to the latest version of the VASP applications whenever there are modifications as required 
    by BOC, PEZA, SBMA, CDC and AFAB
  • Tutorial videos and online user manuals to guide the students in navigating the applications. 
    Pertinent rules and regulations like Department Orders, Customs Administrative Orders, Customs 
    Memorandum Orders and other related Orders shall be made available to the faculty and 
    students through the e-Konek online portal as soon as they are published.
  • Sandbox computing environment that mimics or replicates the targeted application for all types 
    of users including simulated responses from the government agencies’ back-end systems
  • One free lecture and hands-on orientation to faculty and students and consultations on the 
    Orders and issuances pertinent to the course

This is BSCA for you!

#ExperienceTransformativeEducation!    #ExperienceThe“Experient”!

May 2020

MCI VIRTUAL INTRAMURALS 2021

In the middle of the pandemic’s challenges and uncertainty. In the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, Midway Colleges, Inc. has launched a Virtual Intramurals with the theme of “Adaptive Sportsmanship in times of COVID-19 pandemic”, March 5, 2021.

Padrid, John Christopher Y.

All students with their respective program are obliged to participate in a range of sporting challenge, including those pursuing Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation, Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Customs Administration, ITSD Department and Senior High School. They desire to compete with-and against- their colleagues while managing and balancing their academics, such as assessments, activities, and tests. As a result, many departments are ready to cheer on their respective programs in order to help their participants.

Virtual Intramurals: Adaptive Sportsmanship in the times of Covid-19 Pandemic, March 5-April 10,2021.

This semester has been the same way. Despite the COVID-19 Pandemic, Midway Colleges, Inc. students competed in Virtual Intramurals to exhibit their unique talents in KAKAIBA KA! see their artistic performance talent-fine arts in PHONE PHOTOGRAPHY, SLOGAN MAKING CONTEST, SPOKEN WORD POETRY and POSTER MAKING CONTEST, as well as their ability to test players’ intellectual capabilities in PALAKASAN NG ISIP, when it comes to DANCE CHALLENGE, some students are demonstrating their aptitude for expressing their bodies in motion and also their physical performance test that all student are required to participate in PHYSICAL STRENGTHENING CHALLENGE.

Standings were calculated based on performance and sportsmanship after all of the games had been played and the results had been submitted.

Students who competed in respective challenges and games  received a Certificate of Recognition.

Bactol, Ramon Patrick from BSMT2B1 earned the top rank in showcasing his special and unique abilities in KAKAIBA KA! as a result of his efforts. Although, Abalos, Jun Denver from BSMTNM4A2 came in second place as showed off his best talent and skills.

The POSTER MAKING CONTEST, was dominated Orpiano, John Paulo Q. while Quiniones, Dhexter Z. from Sidhaya Warriors took 2nd place as he showed off his skills and ability in terms of creativity in fine arts.

On the other hand, Reyes Jhess Gerome from BSME6A1 got the highest score which land him as champion for  Slogan making contest followed by Paligar, Kelly S. from CSHRS4A1 as  2nd place.

Phone Photography Contest, was championed by Ordonio, Rensyl Mark from BSME2A1.

For his efforts in highlighting his skills in presenting spoken word poetry, Cedrick, Martin John R. was awarded as Champion while  Nunez, Sherwin was awarded as 2nd place

BSMT-TEAM-ON Department earned the highest ranking after collaborating and demonstrating their dancing abilities as they are bagged Champion

Finally, after a whole month of showcasing talent and skills, We ended it with our Culminating activity in which we celebrate how wee conquered the challenges of the pandemic through learning and adaptation.

The virtual Intramurals ended with a virtual Victory Day through breakout rooms facilitated by the Physical Education teachers and student Leaders.

This virtul intramurals was new to every students of Midway but surely this is something that Midway students will treasure and remember.

May 2020

MCI – On the Road to Being a Certified…

Midway Colleges further asserts its motto, “Experience Transformative Education” as it takes another leap forward to being a certified Microsoft Showcase School. As of this writing, MCI proudly has 61 of its faculty certified as Microsoft Innovative Educator (MEIs) and is actively using Microsoft in its Learning Management System (LMS).

All Midway students have Microsoft accounts and use Microsoft applications as part of their routine learning. This is integrated into the school’s LMS in response to flexible learning guidelines and in observance of health and safety protocols that calls for deferred face-to-face instruction. Midway’s LMS ensures learning despite the absence of traditional classroom activities and allows for interaction with fellow students through linkages inherent in the system.

Midway teachers are using Microsoft applications as well in carrying on with their duties. Online lectures coupled with engaging virtual activities, keeping track of attendance, submission of requirements, assessments, and even reaching out to students were all made possible through this smart deployment of technology. In this time of Covid19 when most former lectures and activities are replaced by virtual instruction, blended and hybrid learning becomes indispensable.

Technology is but one end of the equation. Students can experience continuity in their learning and gain valuable life skills through Microsoft technologies at the same time. Skills that students need in this century, like working with computer applications, collaboration and creative problem solving are made possible with linkages featured in the Microsoft Learning System. Teachers also enable the use of the technology in collaborative and creative activities apart from enriching the interaction among students.

Microsoft describes its Showcase Schools as those schools that incorporate “student-centered, immersive, and inclusive experiences that inspire lifelong learning, stimulating the development of essential future-ready skills so students are empowered to achieve more.” Midway reiterates this by empowering its teachers and students with knowledge and know-how of emerging technologies.