Mdpn. Joey Serra Jr., a student of John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation–Bacolod and photojournalist of The Carrier, the institution’s official student publication, earned international recognition after his photograph was selected for the “Seafarer Stories” exhibit during the Singapore Maritime Week held on April 21, in Asian Civilizations Museum, Singapore.

Chosen among more than 1,000 entries submitted worldwide, Mdpn. Serra’s work was placed among the top 16 in the selected images featured in the international exhibit organized by CFARERS.

With the support of the C/M John Erll N. Destacamento, Ph.D, Dean of the College of Maritime Education, the achievement reflected the institution’s continued commitment to developing globally competitive student leaders.

“I am truly honored and grateful that my photo was chosen to be part of the ‘Seafarer Stories’ exhibit because this achievement reflects not only my passion for photography but also the experiences and realities of life at sea,” said Mdpn. Serra.

According to CFARERS organizer Stefan Froebe, the success of the exhibit was made possible through the contributions of participants whose photographs brought authentic maritime stories to life and encouraged conversations about the realities faced by seafarers beyond vessels and schedules.

“This is a big achievement for me, and I hope my photo will continue to inspire others while representing the dedication and sacrifices of seafarers around the world,” Mdpn. Serra added.

The organizers also shared that the “Seafarer Stories” initiative continues to gain attention from maritime organizations through the exhibit and online engagements, opening opportunities for wider discussions about the maritime profession and the experiences of workers at sea.

The international exhibit aimed to highlight the lives, journeys, and contributions of seafarers through photography, while promoting awareness and appreciation for the global maritime community and its vital role in society.

Words by l John Andrei Estoesta

Graphics by l Merben John Alelis

The President Emeritus Award recognizes a John B. Lacson Foundation Unit that has shown a strong commitment to Total Quality Management (TQM) through continuous improvement in education and training. This achievement is the result of the collective efforts of all stakeholders, including top management, employees, students, parents, alumni, and industry partners, working together to meet the needs of the community and uphold excellence.

The award promotes key principles such as visionary leadership, continuous learning, innovation, collaboration, agility, social responsibility, and a shared commitment to building a better future.

There are four recognition levels under the President Emeritus Award:

• Level 1 – Recognition for Commitment to Performance Excellence
• Level 2 – Recognition for Proficiency in Performance Excellence
• Level 3 – Recognition for Mastery in Performance Excellence
• Level 4 – President Emeritus Award for Performance Excellence

Congratulations to the entire JOHN B. LACSON COLLEGES FOUNDATION (BACOLOD), INC. community!

#TatakLacsonian

#TheMaritimeVanguard

#PEA #excellence

With great pride, we honor our Administrator, Engr. Sylvino V. Tupas, PhD, for receiving the prestigious 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗘𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘂𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱 for Academic Year 2024–2025.

This distinguished recognition is awarded to a unit administrator whose leadership has created a lasting and meaningful impact, not only within the institution through students, faculty, parents, and stakeholders, but also across the entire JBLF System through exemplary service and contributions to institutional advancement.

Through his dynamic leadership, unwavering dedication, and commitment to delivering noble, accessible, and globally competitive education, Dr. Tupas has truly exemplified excellence in administration and service.

Your passion, vision, and commitment continue to motivate the entire community to strive for greater heights. We are proud to celebrate this remarkable achievement with you, Sir Bing!

#LeadershipExcellence

#PresidentEmeritusAward

#JBLCFBPride

#TheMaritimeVanguard

#TatakLacsonian

#PEA

Congratulations to 3/E Bernard M. Sorbito Jr., Unit Quality Assurance Manager, for winning 1st Place in the Master’s Level, and to Dr. Joni P. Gan, CME Program Head for BSMarE, for securing 2nd Place in the Doctoral Level during the 5th JBLFMU Graduate Education Research Colloquium held on May 15, 2026.

Your remarkable achievements reflect academic excellence and commitment to research and innovation.

May your success continue to inspire the academic community and bring pride to the institution.

Dr. Mary Lou Lacson-Arcelo, Chairman of the Board of Trustees and President Emeritus of John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU), has been recognized as one of the Business Icons in the Visayas during the 35th Visayas Area Business Conference held at L’Fisher Hotel in Bacolod City.

The prestigious award honors Dr. Lacson-Arcelo’s exemplary leadership, enduring contributions to education and enterprise development, and her significant role in advancing economic growth and excellence across the Visayas region. Her recognition stands as a testament to her visionary stewardship and impactful legacy in both the academic and business communities.

Joining her at the event were Engr. Sylvino V. Tupas, Ph.D, Administrator of JBLCF–Bacolod, along with other department heads, who shared in celebrating this milestone achievement and reaffirmed their collective commitment to upholding the institution’s tradition of leadership and service.

We Lead. We Excel. The Lacsonian Legacy.

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#MaritimeVanguard

#TatakLacsonian

#maritime

#awards

#achievement