After successfully coursing through the various screening stages, including the online bid screening, the essay writing challenge, and finally the interview rounds, Pumaren prevailed over other nominees in the award-giving body.

In its 16th year, JCI-Regatta continues its commitment to recognize junior high school and college students who have excelled in academics, leadership, a high sense of social responsibility, and are grounded in faith.

TOSIA 2025 aims to recognize student leaders who excel in academics, community involvement, leadership, and faith—the four pillars of creating positive change, and is held in partnership with the Department of Education - Iloilo and the Commission on Higher Education - Region VI.

Mdpwn. Pumaren represents John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (Molo), Inc., and notably, she is currently in her second term as The Seagull Publication's Editor-in-Chief.

Caption by Mdpwn. Alexandra May Tarroja

PubMat by Mdpwn. Juvylyn Oquendo

Photo Courtesy of The Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards FB Page

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In a stunning showcase of talent and determination, the JBLFMU Dolphins delivered breakthrough performances across multiple events at the 2025 National PRISAA held on April 9-11 in Tugegarao City, Cagayan.

Facing off against top-tier athletes from different regions, the team rose to the top, snatching medals, setting new personal bests, and marking their success at the pool side.

This landmark achievement not only brought pride to JBLFMU but also solidified the Dolphins’ status as rising forces in the higher stages of competitions.

Proving that excellence knows no bounds, Yulo is the first athlete to represent WVPRISAA in this category—an inspiring leap from her swimming roots.

She was previously featured in the Seagull’s February 2024 issue titled “From Pool to Peak: Exploring Waves and Storms,” where her journey as a top-tier swimmer was celebrated. Now, she’s lifting more than just weights—she’s lifting the standard.

Caption by Dave Tubio

Pubmat by Maverick Gemarino


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With the theme “Generation of Unity: Partners for the New Philippines,” the event celebrates the achievements of students who have shown excellence in academics, leadership, and character throughout the school year.

Parents, teachers, and school staff are gathered to witness the awarding of top-performing students.

The event continues to highlight JBLFMU-Molo’s commitment to molding future maritime professionals and active nation-builders.

Words by Fatima Louise Pumaren

Photos by Saraih Villanueva

In a remarkable showcase of intellect and expertise in Iloilo's culinary heritage, three Cruise Ship Management students from John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (Molo) triumphed in the Quiz Bowl Competitions held during the 2025 Filipino Food Month Celebration at SM City Iloilo, April 22.

Mdpwn. Shaira Faith Polizon won First Place in the Individual Category while Mdpwn. Natasha Lyn Sumbi and Mdpwn. Alexandra May Tarroja also earned First Place in the Group Category, showcasing their extensive knowledge of the rich Ilonggo cuisine.

Coached by Sir Rey Samulde, with special thanks to Dr. Ma. Agnes Regina Torres, the trio brought home a trophy, a medal, a certificate of recognition, and a cash prize corresponding to their earned titles.

With this year's theme "Sarap ng Pagkaing Pilipino: Yaman ng ating Kasaysayan, Kultura, at Pagkatao," the Filipino Food Month Celebration is held annually and is participated by various HEIs in the city such as the Central Philippine University, University of the Philippines Visayas, PHINMA University of Iloilo, Iloilo Science and Technology University, and the University of San Agustin.

PubMat by: Mdpn. Maverick Gemarino

The event, which runs from April 22 to 24 at the Main Events Center of SM City Iloilo, aligns with this year’s national theme, “Sarap ng Pagkaing Pilipino: Yaman ng ating Kasaysayan, Kultura, at Pagkatao.”

JBLFMU-M's exhibit demonstrates how common food wastes, often discarded, can be transformed into valuable skincare products— featuring the concept of a circular economy and addressing issues like food oversupply and kitchen waste by repurposing waste products from food ingredients, not only minimizing environmental impact but also promotes sustainable practices in skincare.

The exhibition was led by Chief Cook Rey Samulde, with the guidance and support of TechVoc Head Dr. Ma. Agnes Regina Torres, with Mr. Michaelou Baligaya handling the table setup and skirting, Ms. Jessica Fuentes for the write-ups, with special thanks to the generous assistance of Ms. Angelie Galvan and Mr. Nimrod Cordero, along with the TechVoc students.

This collaboration included the participation of various educational institutions, such as Central Philippine University, Iloilo Science and Technology University, and the University of the Philippines Visayas, alongside support from the Department of Agriculture Region VI, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region VI, National Dairy Authority – Western Visayas, and the Philippine Coconut Authority Region VI, with the joint efforts of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), Department of Agriculture, Department of Tourism, Iloilo City Government, Iloilo City MICE Center, and SM City Iloilo.

Caption by Mdpwn. Alexandra May Tarroja

Photos by Chief Cook Rey Samulde and Mr. Michaelou Baligaya

Leading the way was Hans Iñigo Parreño, who powered through the 8-kilometer swim to be crowned the Overall Champion — a true test of endurance, circling Nogas Island before making it back to the mainland. Amerson Espinosa also made an incredible splash, finishing 2nd Overall in the 3-kilometer swim, conquering both distance and waves.

Not far behind, Ted Lester Tan showed determination, earning a Silver Medal in the 18–29 Men's 3-kilometer category. And in a proud moment for our alumni, Brian Caluba, now coaching the JBLFMU Dolphins Swim Team, took home Gold in the 30–39 Men's 1.5-kilometer swim, crossing from mainland to island with strength and focus.

We also recognize the amazing support of coaches Mark Catalan and Ronald Sta. Ana, Student Activity Coordinator Mrs. Ive Sta. Ana, the parents and their chaperones, and to the school administration.

Today, we celebrate their wins, their courage, and the inspiring message they bring back to all Lacsonians: with preparation, respect, and passion, we can make waves anywhere we go.

Congratulations to our champions!

The exhibit showcased various maritime equipment, rescue gear, and informational materials, highlighting the PCGA's dedication to service, volunteerism, and maritime safety.

Visitors had the opportunity to learn more about the tools and resources the PCGA utilizes in its operations.

Additionally, the photo exhibit provided a visual journey through the PCGA’s history, featuring images of their humanitarian missions, community outreach efforts, and the evolution of their voluntary service over the years.

The 40th National Convention stands as a powerful reminder of the bayanihan spirit in safeguarding the nation's waters and ensuring maritime safety.

Photos by Saraih Villanueva

Words by Jan Reynard Galilea

Their participation was made possible through the coordination of the JBLFMU-Molo International Relations Office.

The exhibition, hosted by Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U), featured the International Industrial Talents Education Special Program (INTENSE) initiated by Taiwan’s Ministry of Education.

The INTENSE Program aims to attract international students—especially from the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia—to pursue higher education and employment in Taiwan.

The program offers opportunities in various fields, including STEM, finance, and semiconductors, along with benefits such as tuition subsidies, living allowances, and paid internships.

A total of 20 higher education institutions (HEIs) from across the Philippines participated in the program, with JBLFMU-Molo among the select institutions representing Western Visayas.

The event targeted graduating students and alumni seeking academic and career advancement through international programs.

Words by Fatima Louise Pumaren