JCI Surigao North•Articles by: Eric Libay

Author: Eric Libay

Tech for Inclusive Growth 2025

Leading the Future: Mastering Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics, and Machine Learning for Executives and Technopreneurs (Year 2) - 2 Day Masterclass Session 2

Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leoIn celebration of the 2025 National Innovation Day, JCI Surigao North, in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology – Surigao del Norte (DOST-SDN), DOST Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI), and the Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte, proudly supported the successful conduct of a 2-day Masterclass on Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics, and Machine Learning held last April 23–24, 2025 at the Provincial Research, Innovation, and Science Museum (PRISM).

This initiative brought together representatives from SUCs, HEIs, national government agencies, and industry partners, providing them with in-depth exposure to emerging technologies and practical tools for data-driven decision-making. As a community-based organization committed to sustainable development and innovation, JCI Surigao North recognizes the importance of building digital capacities to future-proof our local institutions and services.
With expert sessions led by DOST-ASTI’s top minds — Engr. Eduardo D. Piedad, Jr., Engr. Reynaldo Ted L. Peñas II, and Engr. Gary Chris D. Lacdang — participants explored real-world AI applications in governance, research, agriculture, and education, along with hands-on training on platforms like Google Colab and Gemini AI. The program also introduced the principles of Design Thinking to spark creativity and human-centered innovation.
This collaborative effort reflects JCI Surigao North’s mission to create positive change through impactful partnerships — bridging the gap between technology and community empowerment. By investing in upskilling the Surigaonon workforce, we #KeepGoingForward to building a more innovative and resilient Surigao del Norte.

#ProvinceOfSurigaoDelNorte.

Surigao Marathon 2025 Hydration Station

Fueling Every Step: JCI Surigao North Supports Surigao Marathon 2025

In pursuit of a healthier lifestyle for our community, JCI Surigao North, led by 2025 LO President Atty. Krystel Grace Calderon-Buniel, proudly served as a hydration station for the runners of the Surigao Marathon 2025. We believe in supporting initiatives that promote well-being and encourage active living and to #BuildBetter communities.
Providing essential hydration to the dedicated athletes was a small but significant way for us to contribute to their success and to foster a stronger sense of community spirit during this inspiring event. We were thrilled to witness the incredible determination and perseverance of each participant, a testament to the power of commitment and the pursuit of personal goals.
As they crossed the finish line, they weren’t just ending a race; they #KeepGoingForward on a path of self-improvement, setting an example for others to follow.

Tech for Inclusive Growth 2025

Leading the Future: Mastering Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics, and Machine Learning for Executives and Technopreneurs (Year 2) - 2 Day Masterclass Session 1

In proud partnership with the Department of Science and Technology – Surigao del Norte (DOST-SDN), JCI Surigao North co-implemented the transformative 2-day masterclass on Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics, and Machine Learning for Local Government Units held on April 21–22, 2025, at the Provincial Research, Innovation, and Science Museum (PRISM). This initiative, which commemorated the 2025 National Innovation Day, brought together key stakeholders across LGUs to accelerate digital transformation efforts in Surigao del Norte and to #BuildBetter communities. It served as a vital platform for fostering innovation and building technological capacity — a cause fully aligned with JCI’s mission of providing leadership development opportunities towards creating positive change.
As an organization committed to empowering communities through sustainable impact, JCI Surigao North was honored to take part in this milestone event, represented by its 2025 LO President, Atty. Krystel Grace Calderon-Buniell together with its Vice President for Community and Project Chair, Ms. Mariel Makinano. The sessions led by experts from DOST-ASTI — Engr. Eduardo D. Piedad, Jr. and Engr. Reynaldo Ted L. Peñas II — not only introduced practical applications of AI, machine learning, and data analytics tools, but also reinforced the importance of human-centric design in technological innovations. Through the lens of design thinking, participants learned to ground their innovations in empathy and real-world challenges — an approach that JCI strongly advocates in its leadership and community development work.
This collaborative training emphasized a future-forward vision anchored in responsible innovation. JCI Surigao North proudly stands alongside DOST Surigao del Norte and the Provincial Government in equipping local leaders with the knowledge and tools necessary to drive data-driven policies and smarter governance. By engaging in this initiative, we reaffirm our role in building a digitally empowered, innovation-driven province — where technology becomes a powerful equalizer and catalyst for inclusive growth. Together, we #KeepGoingForward, creating a digitally empowered province.

JCI Week 2025: A Grand Finale!

From Classrooms to Camaraderie: JCI Surigao North Ends JCI Week on a High Note

April 12, 2025 – Day 7 of JCI Week 2025 began with a powerful display of collaborative service. JCI Surigao North, alongside JCI Surigao Nickel and JCI Surigao Wensie, implemented the “Bags-to-School” JCI Philippines National Project initiative in Tapian Elementary School, Mainit, Surigao del Norte, ensuring that underprivileged students have the necessary tools for their education. This collaborative effort underscores our commitment to #BuildBetterTogether and making a tangible difference in our community. It’s a perfect example of how we #KeepGoingForward, creating positive change.
Following the morning’s project, we convened for a Joint General Membership Meeting at Palma Beach Resort. This provided a valuable opportunity for reflection, planning, and strengthening our bonds as an organization. We celebrated the successes of the past week, shared insights, and strategized for future initiatives. The collaborative spirit and shared commitment to service were palpable throughout the meeting, inspiring us to continue our work. Special thanks goes to RVP David Emmanuel T. Piol, Regional Vice President for JCI Philippines Northern Mindanao for his inspiring message.
The evening culminated in a spectacular closing ceremony, featuring a breathtaking fire dance performance—a wonderful surprise from our hosts, JCI Surigao Wensie led by 2025 LO President Maraya Lorente. This vibrant and unforgettable display perfectly capped off an incredible week of service, growth, and camaraderie.
JCI Surigao North under the leadership of our 2025 LO President Atty. Krystel Grace Calderon-Buniel, extend our deepest gratitude to our Project Chairperson Charis Guerra for her tireless dedication, passion, and hard work in making this year’s JCI Week such a resounding success. Congratulations for a job well done!
Reflecting on a week of service and camaraderie, we’re already excited for what’s to come. Until next year’s JCI Week Celebration! 🥳

JCI Week 2025: Day 6

Career Talks Year 3 Inspires Future Leaders at JCI Week 2025

JCI Surigao North concluded its Career Talks Year 3, as part of Day 6 of JCI Week 2025, successfully implementing “The Next Step: Lead with Purpose, Grow with Passion” Training. The event, held at Mat-i National High School, provided invaluable career guidance and inspiration to a room full of eager students. We believe that empowering young people is key to building a better future, and this initiative reflects our dedication to #KeepGoingForward and build better together, aligning perfectly with our mission of creating positive change.
The Career Talks served not only to equip students with practical career skills but also to instill in them a sense of purpose and the importance of active citizenship. Our speakers shared their personal journeys, inspiring the students to pursue their passions and make a difference in the world. This focus on leadership development is a crucial aspect of our mission, and we are proud to contribute to the growth of these future leaders.
The day’s activities extended beyond the Career Talks, culminating in an evening gathering of prospective members from diverse backgrounds. These individuals, united by their commitment to community service, represent the future of JCI Surigao North. Their shared passion for service to humanity is a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of JCI, and we are excited to welcome them as we continue to #BuildBetterTogether.

JCI Week 2025: Day 5

Driving Innovation: JCI Week 2025 Event Equips MSMEs to Scale and Succeed

In celebration of the JCI Week 2025, a dynamic collaboration between JCI Surigao North, the Department of Science and Technology DOST Surigao del Norte and Local Government Unit of Tubod, brought a spark of innovation to the local business landscape through the successful conduct of “MSME Forward: Bridging Businesses to Innovation” on April 10, 2025, at the LGU Tubod Municipal Hall, Tubod, Surigao del Norte.
With the goal of accelerating the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the province, the event spotlighted DOST’s flagship initiative for the business sector — the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP). This program champions technological innovation as a key driver of productivity, sustainability, and market competitiveness, urging local businesses to embrace science and technology to transform their operations and scale up.
Participants were also introduced to a wide spectrum of DOST’s comprehensive services for the industry sector, including technology trainings, technical consultancy, packaging and labeling assistance, nutritional facts analysis, and shelf-life testing — key support mechanisms designed to ensure that MSMEs can meet market standards and customer demands.
A showcase of DOST-developed and funded technologies was also featured, opening opportunities for MSMEs to adopt ready-to-deploy innovations tailored to various sectors such as food processing, metals and engineering, product manufacturing, among others. These technologies present not only efficiency improvements but also pathways to expand product offerings and reach new markets.
Recognizing the importance of strategic support, a one-on-one pre-technology needs assessment was conducted with participating firms. This personalized session served as a foundation for crafting responsive and customized interventions aligned with each business’ goals and challenges — demonstrating DOST and JCI’s commitment to building long-term, high-impact support systems for MSME development.
To further empower local entrepreneurs, the Caraga Food Safety Team delivered a crash course on Food Safety and Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP). This timely training ensured that business owners are well-informed and equipped with essential knowledge to uphold quality and safety standards in their products and operations.
The event is a testament to #BuildBetterTogether and to what can be achieved through purposeful partnerships and a shared vision for inclusive growth. As JCI Surigao North and DOST Surigao del Norte continue to converge efforts, the province takes a bold step closer to becoming a hub of innovation-driven entrepreneurship — where local businesses not only thrive but lead the way forward. 🧡🚀

JCI Week 2025: Day 4

JCI Surigao Chapters Unite on Day 4 of JCI Week 2025 to Serve, Strengthen, and Soar

JCI Surigao North, together with JCI Surigao Nickel and JCI Surigao Wensie’s Day 4 of JCI Week 2025 exemplified our commitment to JCI’s vision of a better world, achieved through active citizenship, individual growth and to #BuildBetterTogether.
We started with the JCI Philippines National Program “Got Heart,” a bloodletting drive called “Valor of Every Drop,” commemorating “Araw ng Kagitingan”. This initiative, aligned with our mission of service to humanity, demonstrates our dedication to improving the lives of others and underscores our commitment to #KeepGoingForward. The selfless act of donating blood reflects the courage and sacrifice of Filipino heroes, inspiring us to continue our work.
Following the morning activity, we invested in the well-being of our members with a mental health forum titled “Mind Project: Empowering JCI Members with Mindfulness and Self-Awareness for Improved Mental Health” under JCI Philippines National Program – Mission Possible, recognizing and focuses on health and well-being that strong individuals are essential to building strong communities. This emphasis on personal growth aligns with JCI’s focus on leadership development.
We would like to thank the following Guest Speakers for the Mind Project Forum:
Mr. Joseph Ace P. Balaga, RSW
Community Affairs Officer I, PSWDO
Ms. Julian G. Galing, RSW
Mental Health Focal Person, CSWDO
Ms. Beverly S. Elizar, RSW
Social Welfare Assistant, CSWDO
The evening’s friendly badminton games further fostered camaraderie and teamwork, essential skills for effective active citizenship. This balanced approach to service and personal development empowers us to achieve our goals.

JCI Week 2025: Day 3

Day 3 JCI Week 2025: Community Spirit - Courtside and Beyond

April 8, 2025, JCI Surigao North together with JCI Surigao Nickel and JCI Surigao Wensie extended our community engagement to the PDLs of BJMP Surigao del Norte with the implementation of the Beyond Prison Walls’ JCI Philippines National Project Initiative- Empowering Lives with Legal Support with our very own 2025 LO Legal Counsel Atty. Princess Jezrael A. Frondozo and Spiritual Support, Care and Guidance with Pastor Jose Plaza. We then transitioned to an evening of friendly competition and camaraderie with basketball and badminton games.
It was indeed a day filled with service and sportsmanship! 🧡
3 days down! 4 more days to go!

JCI Week 2025: Day 2

Growth, Unity, Service: Day 2 of JCI Week 2025 was a resounding success!

The day 2 began with the following significant milestones:
📌 the Signing of a Partnership Agreement between JCI Surigao North and the Sama Badjao Community, a collaboration poised to create impactful change in our community.
📌 followed by an insightful Decoding Leaders Training session hosted by JCI Surigao Nickel and co-hosted by JCI Surigao North, featuring the dynamic speaker Engr. Gideon G. Buniel, which expertise equipped JCI members with valuable skills to enhance their leadership capabilities, styles and strategic decision-making.
📌 Online Training hosted by JCI Surigao Wensie and co-hosted by JCI Surigao North – “Unleash your Potential: Discover Your Purpose” with 2025 RSDD of Central Luzon, Angela Dominique Lazatin of JCI Angeles City Culiat
The evening’s session were further elevated by the presence of 2025 JCI Philippines National President Felix Venson “Thirdie” A. Chua and 2025 National Chairperson for JCI Week, Ma. Corazon Xy-za Escobar of JCI Tuguegarao Ybanag. Their inspiring words reinforced our commitment to #BuildBetterTogether and to #KeepGoingForward, creating a brighter future for our community. We are energized and inspired to continue this momentum throughout the week. 🧡
SUMAKSES sa Day 2 ng JCI Week 2025! 🥳

JCI Week 2025: Day 1

SUMAKSES sa Day 1 of JCI Week 2025

The vibrant spirit of JCI Week 2025 ignited as JCI Surigao North, JCI Surigao Nickel, and JCI Surigao Wensie joined forces for a spectacular kickoff! The day unfolded with a heartfelt Thanksgiving Mass, setting a tone of gratitude and unity. The streets came alive with the colorful spectacle of our motorcade, drawing enthusiastic participation from the community. Our radio guesting at Tingog sa Kabatan-onan provided a platform to share our vision and inspire others to join our cause. The energetic opening of our sports activities showcased the spirit of healthy competition and camaraderie.
This collaborative effort is a powerful demonstration of our shared commitment to #BuildBetterTogether. We are excited to continue this momentum throughout the week, creating impactful projects that will leave a lasting positive mark on our community. 🧡
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