Midway Colleges, a Centriport Authorized Testing Center (CATC)

Midway Colleges is dedicated to providing a high-quality education to its students and the community. Being the first Certiport Authorized Testing Center (CATC) in Nueva Ecija, the institution is consistent with this commitment as it will help prepare students and other test takers for the workforce by providing valuable credentials and access to certification exams for various technology products and tools, such as Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, CISCO, and other application software and digital literacy programs, allowing individuals to improve their job prospects and opportunities.

To meet the requirements of the CATC program, Midway Colleges had to ensure that their hardware and software are up to date and are compatible with the testing environment. They also need to ensure that their staff members were certified and are qualified to provide support and assistance to the test takers. This includes providing testing candidates with an optimal experience that minimizes technical difficulties and maximizes their performance.

Moreover, to become a CATC, the institution must also adhere to strict testing security protocols. The test center must maintain the confidentiality and integrity of the test materials and the test-taker information. The staff must ensure that all test takers comply with the testing policies and procedures, including verifying their identity, and adhering to the test center’s code of conduct.

This partnership with Certiport by becoming an authorized testing center and by providing these resources, Midway Colleges is showing its dedication to meeting the highest standards of higher education and in ensuring that their students are well-equipped for success in the future.

A Real-life Situation Simulation for a Real-life Navigation Preparation

Last March 09-10, 2023, at the Midway Academics Building 1, the College of Maritime Education Department held its second phase of Developmental Training for the BSMT Faculty Member. “A Real-life Situation Simulation for a Real-life Navigation Preparation,” this has been the resonating slogan of the deck team as they braised themselves with the two days upskilling training on the use of our Mini-Bridge Poseidon Deck Simulator.

Regarded as a state-of-the-art system designed to train seafarers in the operation and maintenance of marine navigation equipment. The simulator is an essential tool for familiarizing and training our marine professionals and students to become proficiently ready in the competitive world of Seafaring, thus making them globally indomitable in the ever-changing modernization and technology.

The chief objective of the retraining program is to set the level of standards by enhancing the team’s knowledge and skills in the safe operation and maintenance of marine navigation equipment, with a particular focus on the use of Mini-Bridge Poseidon simulator. The training also aims to ensure the roster of our BSMT Faculty receives the best firsthand experience as they explore and discover various features of the innovative equipment.

The workshop Training started at first light of March 09, 2023, headed by the lead facilitator 2M Ferdinand Romero, an industry expert and seasoned trainer from Poseidon. He made a smooth run of equipment and software introduction. He then deliberately divided the discussion into three main topics: theory, simulator training, and practical assessment process.

The theory component covered the basic principles of marine navigation, including the use of radar, GPS, and other navigation equipment. The simulator training component involved the use of the Mini-Bridge Poseidon simulator to simulate different navigation scenarios and train the team members in the use of the simulator. Finally, the practical assessment training component involved the application of the knowledge and skills gained from the theory and simulator assessment training as to real-life scenarios.

On the second day, March 10, 2023, the team members had made a significant progress during the upskilling and training program. During the group sharing session they obtained a deeper understanding on the principles of marine navigation and the operation of navigation equipment. Unassisted, they became more assertive in navigating the Mini-Bridge Poseidon simulator. Also, they were able to manage complex assessment scenarios with ease. Furthermore, Deck instructors demonstrated their individual ability to operate and maintain marine navigation equipment effectively at various weather challenges set-up and conditions.

In a nutshell, the reequipping and rehabilitation training workshop of the Mini-Bridge Poseidon simulator was truly a remarkable success. The BSMT Team have acquired valuable tips, abundant information and have geared up the caliber of their interpretation of the equipment. This are indeed vital on delivering quality educations and training to our students for the proper utilization of the Mini-Bridge Poseidon simulator.

Once again, Midway have just proven its commitment and dedication for a promised of a transformative Education, not just for the students but for our faculty and staff. As an old saying goes, “Officers don’t create excuses, they create results.

Upskilling Training on the Operation of Engine Room Simulator…

As the time goes by, The Philippine Educational System continuously evolves. The goal of each MHEI is not just merely giving learning, but also producing globally competitive professionals. One of the keys to adapt with this evolving process is to gear-up instructors to become physically and mentally prepared to give the best quality education to learners.

Last February 6-7, 2023, Midway Colleges Inc., College of Maritime Education Department in supervision of Dean 2/E Erdie P. Taganguin and Assistant Dean Engr. Isidro Arvin Roberto, an upskilling training on the operation of Midway Colleges Inc Engine Room Simulator was conducted. It was led by Senior Technical Representative from Poseidon Asia, Inc 3/E Nilo Ortega. He facilitated the two-day training with the Marine Engineering Faculty. Driven with our forged mission and commitment from our partnership with Poseidon which is to continuously develop and improve the training services, and to equip our Marine Engineering Department with sophisticated and innovative competence enrichment training, the invigorating event kick-off.

On day one (February 6, 2023), Sir Ortega handed out a smooth introduction of the training itinerary and coverage. He then started it with the operation of Engine room machinery and watch keeping engine control room of vessel with high level of automation. He explicitly extended the discussions by giving pointers and ideas to the instructors on how to handle situations in the Engine room. He also shared the specification of equipment on Virtual Engine Room 6 (VER6) and machinery as added information.

On day 2 (Feb 7, 2023), The Marine Engineering Faculty were individually familiarized with the operation of VER6 Program. Marine Engineering Instructors were attested by trying out different assessments and scenario. Sir Ortega and the instructors also tackled the operation of gas turbine and steam turbine and how to create an assessment task on the specific course. Before the successful wrap up of the comprehensive workshop training, Sir Ortega encouraged the trainees to raise some other concerns and inquiry with the various features of the simulator program. The training triumphally ended with a harmonious and thriving sharing of experiences.

Change is inevitable. Our education is continuously evolving and changing. To adapt to change, we must be equipped with new sets of skills and knowledge that we can use to produce world class professionals in the battlefield.

Research Colloquium 2021

Midway’s first ever Research Colloquium with the theme Architecturing research culture: Prospects and Perspectiveswas spearheaded by the Research Coordinator of Midway Colleges, Inc., Mr. Christian M. Santiago. It was held last April 30, 2021, using zoom and MS Teams as the platform.

The purpose of this colloquium is to promote the culture of Data-driven decisions, planning, strategy creation and evaluation through research amongst students, faculty and employees across all programs and departments.

The colloquium ran from 0800H-1700H. The morning session started with a prayer and followed by singing of the national anthem through the help of the supreme student council.

After, the CEO of Midway Colleges, Inc, Mr. Sabino Czar Cloma Manglicmot II, was introduced by the Masters of Ceremony, Ms. Ria Luz R. Celindro and Mr, Robie Mar A. Dayto, for the welcome remarks. The welcome remarks was then followed by the introduction of the keynote speaker by the Institution’s Academic Director, Dr. Richard L. Oandasan.

Dr. Jerome Buenviaje discussing the CARS model during his keynote address.

The keynote address during the colloquium is about “Constructing Research Habit: Rationale and Fundamentals of Research Process” delivered by the Dean of the College of Education of University of the Philippines, Dr. Jerome T. Buenviaje. During his talk, he gave tips on conducting the research, the steps and the fundamental process of research as well as the importance of conducting researches. He also shared his journey conducting his researches.

The first session, with the theme “Mining the Rudiments: Assay of Quantitative Experimental Research” was delivered by Mr. Christian M. Santiago. During his talk he shared his research entitled “Flipped Mendelian Genetics Class: Effects Differentiation on Student’s Motivated Strategies for Learning and Concept Mastery against Lecture Discussion”.

Mr. Christian M. Santiago during his plenary talk on “Mining the Rudiments: Assay of Quantitative Experimental Research”.

Ms. Princess A. Garcia delivered her talk on the theme “Knitting the framework: Analyzing the Landscape of Qualitative Designs” for the second session. She shared about her research on “Shaping the Duty of a Filipino: An Investigation of the Practice of the Philippine Flag and Heraldic Code in Talavera Senior High School.” 

Dr. Richard L. Oandasan sharing his research entitled “Linguistic Schoolscape: A Pedagogical Tool for Increasing Critical Language Awareness and Positive Language Attitude.”

For the third session, Dr. Richard L. Oandasan shared his ideas on “Forging All Up: The Interplay of Research Designs”, through his research “Linguistic Schoolscape: A Pedagogical Tool for Increasing Critical Language Awareness and Positive Language Attitude.”

The plenary talk was followed by an open forum where the participants had the chance to ask the speakers about the topics they talked about. It was then followed by the awarding of certificates.

Sir Sabino Czar Cloma Manglicmot, the CEO of Midway Colleges, asking the first plenary speaker about the reasons why students are more anxious taking pen and paper test than taking practical tests. 

The afternoon session of the Colloquium is allotted for what we call the Breakout Sessions. Months before the Colloquium, the institution announced a call for paper where researchers from various fields were given the chance to share their researches and its findings to the participants of the colloquium. The first 30 minutes were allotted for orientation of the breakout sessions. 

There were three breakout sessions during the colloquium. We have the session for Educational Research, with Ms. Ria R. Celindro as the moderator, Social and Psychological Research, with Ms. Amy Grace Collado as the moderator, and also Business, Administration and Management Research, with Mr. Prince Ace Cutaran as the moderator.  

In the first breakout session, Educational Research, Ms. Lynjane Tabelisma, presented her research entitled “Technological, Pedagogical and Content Knowledge (Tpack) Of Grade VI Mathematics Teachers and Learners’ Mathematics Performance: An Assessment”. Followed by Ms. Khaysielyn Nortez’ presentation on her research entitled “Effectiveness of The Procedure of E- Review in Passing on all the Functions of STCQ for Marine Engineering”. The last presenter for the breakout session is Mr. Jerome A. Abanilla who presented his research entitled “Technological Approaches in Teaching Biology: Module Development and Validation.” 

The second breakout session is on Social and Psychological Research where the first presenter is Mr. Jan Ashley D. Casco who presented his research entitled “Ethnographic Study: The Religious Practices of the Cult Iglesia Kritiana Adarnista”. It was followed by the presentation of Mr. Robie Mar A. Dayto with his research entitled “Pearl Among Fins: The Effects of Classroom-Based Gender Stereotyping on the Perception of MMFI Female Maritime Students on Job Opportunities at Sea. After, students from the Senior High School Department of Midway Colleges presented their research entitled “Quantitative Analysis of Career Interest of Grade 12 Technical Vocational-Livelihood Maritime Specialization and Pre-Baccalaureate Maritime Students in Midway Senior High School Class 2020-2021”. The last presentation in this breakout session is a presentation on the research entitled “Stress Strata of Midway Pre-Baccalaureate Maritime Students during Remote Flexible Learning: Measurement Across Selected Variable”.  

The researches on last breakout session are researches on Business, Administration, and Management. Dr. Jemmuel C. Roque presented his research “Service Standards of Student Affairs and Services (SAS) Among Maritime Higher Institutions (HEI) In   Central Luzon: Basis for Strategic Plan”. It was followed by the presentation of Mr. Kevin Juan of his research entitled “Facets of Absenteeism among College Students: Basis for Developing Attendance Intervention Program”.  

Presentations from the breakout sessions happened simultaneously as well as all the open forums for each breakout session.  

After all the presentations and open forums, awards were awarded to the presenters followed by the closing remarks from Midway’s Research Coordinator and the over-all in charge for the Research Colloquium, Mr. Christian M. Santiago. 

Survey forms and evaluation forms were disseminated after the colloquium. 

All in all, the research colloquium was a success and it delivered its goal of promoting the Research Culture in the institution and also to the other participants.

Studentcaster Episode 1

Ma. Solla Baluya from Las Navas, Northern Samar, a second-year student taking up Bachelor of Science in Information Systems, testify the commitment of Midway in delivering the highest quality of service. 

She comes from Samar going to Cabanatuan City hoping to experience a quality education: 

“Sa Totoo lang, di’ ko alam kung san talaga ako mag-eenroll;…My Tito recommended Midway Colleges” Ms. Baluya said. 

For her almost two years in the institution, she proudly says that “Ung pagiging approachable and responsible ng mga teachers, staffs, and officers, yun ang nagustuhan ko sa Midway Colleges, kaya dito ako nag-enroll at nag-aral.” 

She discusses the advances of taking Bachelor of Science Information Systems that aside from earning good money, the program is in demand and applicable in a lot of opportunities. 

She narrates her experience and memorable moment in the institution which she actively participated for developing student holistic learning. She has a strong faith and beliefs in how the institution can help her to fulfil her dreams. 

Continue your determination and passion, Ms Baluya, continue in being DRIVEN. 

Teachercaster Episode 10 (College)

Recapitulated the highlights of activities and learnings during the pandemic time.

Teachercaster Ms. Marie Aliling recapitulated the highlights of activities and learnings of students during the 1st semester for the past 10 weeks of distance learning.

Videos of recent events were played as Ms. Aliling narrated the highlights of the activities. These include the collaboration of Senior High School and College departments in producing weekly updates for Teachercaster program, lesson preparation of teachers for the upcoming assessments of their students, and summary of teaching techniques for the subjects Social Sciences and Mathematics.

Midway Colleges have proven that distance is not a hindrance in delivering transformative education even with the ongoing battle against the pandemic.

This pandemic has led everyone to give importance to their health. With this, Physical Education teachers and Midway’s multi-awarded coach, Edwin Lobenia worked together to produce instructional videos on how to properly execute home workout exercises in an episode of Teachercaster.

The students of Midway are fortunate enough to be able to experience the use of technology through online learning. Students are not only using Microsoft 365 as a Learning Management System, but they have also been open to opportunities for learning with great ease, for the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) teachers are all equipped and ready to teach in a virtual learning environment. These expert teachers handled the lessons in depth.

Moreover, teachers ensure that students get a balance between their studies and non-academic related activities. Like in the recent acquaintance and TikTok challenge, these activities are proven to be engaging and fun for students.

In summary, Ms. Aliling thanked everyone who has been part of Teachercaster program for all the hard work they shared. She reminded the students to be DRIVEN in all their ways and said “Remember that in everything we do, we must always give our best and strive for excellence. God bless on your assessments.”

The storyline was written by Teachercaster Ms. Marie Aliling who is a program coordinator herself while Mr. Jestony Alvarez directed the episode.