by Daniel Varias | Isochore
We have not gathered and bonded on campus for almost two years now.
Such prolonged separation continues to throw challenges of various shapes and sizes—academic, personal, financial, and a lot more. Everyone’s spirit, i.e., those who belong to both the members of the organization and every person it aims to help, tries to endure such heavy blows.
However, a selected few have answered the call to not only incessantly serve by leading, but also uphold the welfare of everyone. Each person is unique yet closely-knit together, physically distant yet always in touch, young yet bears a servant-leader’s obligation upon their shoulders with everyone’s hearts in mind.
On July 14, 2021, the members of The UPLB Genetics Society (GeneSoc) finalized their roster of chosen leaders for GeneSoc’s 38th year in its second remote and online election through a series of Zoom meetings. Since then, they trailblazed a path towards change: challenging norms and solving puzzles in their respective committees while maintaining such finessed coordination and meaningful relationships between every officer. They even went through the very first leadership summit tailored-fit for their term.
Four months have passed, and here they stand: up close and personal with their hopes for their committee, the organization, and the advocacies it upholds.
Jessica Mae “Jessi” Cortezano (Polyplex), President and Executive Committee Head
Jessi’s refined skill in leadership truly gained the respect and admiration of her constituents. She inspires every person she works with as she brings out the hundred percent they can give while trying her hardest in ensuring their fervor to serve never burns out. She has made her mark as a leader since her days of service as the past term’s PRO. However, such praises do not fuel her desire to lead GeneSoc; instead, it is her satisfaction in seeing every member grow in the organization and translate their love for the organization through passionate and excellent service.
“Every officer of the 38th term is highly passionate in what they do. In fact, their comments are always insightful. They also make sure to look out for each other’s wellbeing and help with their utmost capabilities. Despite the constant stresses life throws at them, they still always try their very best to be there for the committee and the org. And for that, I am very proud [of them],” Jessi narrated when asked about what she likes the most about working with the Executive Committee.
Her desire to lead also lies in her unrelenting desire to serve others through GeneSoc’s long-withstanding and various activities, which effective servant leadership permits. According to her, “I would love to make sure that the future leaders of GeneSoc are honed, passionate, and would seek more ways in helping the members and meeting their needs, especially in their academics and their personal welfare. I believe this would effectively sustain GeneSoc's tradition in helping other people and promoting the science of Genetics through various activities. To make this happen, I would want the Executive Committee to connect with every member, and for everyone to experience various encounters to help them discover their passion and hidden skills. Still, I want the 38th term to empathize with everyone, especially amid the struggles of remote learning setup.”
When asked about her insight on GeneSoc’s first leadership summit which made her reflect on her leadership, she realized how flexible her leadership style can be. “Before, I have always thought that I can be ‘soft’ towards other people, but I have learned to tailor my way based on the person I am guiding. Sometimes, I must be stern but still empathetic to get the point across. At the same time, I can also be tolerant towards them because they fulfill their responsibilities through their own strategies, which may differ from mine,” she said.
On top of leading an academic organization, Jessi is a BS Biology senior who majors in Cell and Molecular Biology. She balances her roles with her best friend: sticky notes. She ensures that all her tasks are prioritized, written, and within her field of vision, so she never forgets. She also fixes her monthly schedule a week before the month. Also, she closes her “office” on executive work after sunset to find time to do her responsibilities as a student. She also finds time to unwind by spending time solely on movies, Anime, K-drama, or game nights with the people she holds dear.
Jonalyn Jame “Jona” Catedrilla (Polyplex), Vice President and Membership Committee Head
Jona embodies passion and compassion as she sets her eyes on every member’s wellbeing while they strive for excellence. She also envisions a closely-knit, growing family as she leads the Membership Committee and the whole organization in tandem with Jessi. Ask anyone how she is like, and they will tell you that she is an ever-accommodating, empathetic guide with a heightened sense of responsibility.
In leading a student organization, nothing motivates her more than seeing GeneSoc serve the community. Whenever she gets asked about the activities and events of the organization, she proudly shares about serving Filipino children with rare genetic diseases, medical missions, BIO 30 tutorials, and events revolving around genetics. She knows that realizing the objectives of the organization requires hard work but seeing and sharing how everyone’s cumulative efforts serve the community gives her the utmost satisfaction.
Jona shared what she likes the most about her position: “I love how I get to interact with other resident members I haven’t really interacted with before. I came from the Education Committee, and back then, I usually only mingle with the committee members. Now, whenever we have events, I get to interact and ask for participation from members outside the Membership Committee. Also, I get to learn about the members’ situations whenever they share about their academics and personal life. I may be an introvert and social interactions can potentially drain me, but I love being there for them—not necessarily in giving advice, but in listening and empathizing with them.”
She envisions the continuous expansion of the ever-growing GeneSoc family while enabling the organization to ease the lives of the members and upholding and respecting their mental health. She would love everyone to speak up with confidence by upholding a culture of positive reinforcement. She also aims to see everyone bonding together, especially with the new members forming bonds with their batchmates and other resident members and alumni of the organization.
While leading the organization as the Vice President and Membership Committee Head, she is also a BS Biology senior who majors in Ecology. She tries to keep her weekends free, especially on Sundays. She also loves self-care through reading Manga and learning to write and speak in Japanese in her free time.
Justin Gabriel Badlis (Crypton), Secretary and Documentation Committee Head
Justin always tackles his leadership role with a bright smile and a positive, jolly, and occasionally playful attitude. But beneath such carefree demeanor is a master of delegation and a lover of learning new things.
“I like how in the 38th term, there's an organized process in the tasks and duties I am currently undertaking. I also feel like I'm learning new things. What I like about the current executive committee is how each of our personalities complements one another. We even share bardagol moments, my love language!” he jested. “As for the Documentation Committee, I like how they're all approachable and easy to communicate with.”
He also bares his plans for the term. “I plan on having our committee take on more active roles and be able to be familiar with the roles and acquire the necessary skill sets for being a Documentation Committee Head (e.g., Formal Letter making, e-mail etiquette). I will start first by properly delegating and managing my committee members. Then if I already feel like I have a grasp of how I can work with my committee, I may be more comfortable tapping them for work in advance, especially utilizing the "Docute of the Month" system. I would also like for our advisers to get to know the resident members more. In each event, I would try to ask the availability of our advisers, and in turn become familiar with the names and faces of the organization. I hope that when face-to-face classes come back, they may be able to identify and greet us in the hallway,” he said.
Justin is also a BS Biology junior who majors in Systematics. He balances his responsibilities by making a mental schedule apart from his written schedule on how he will spend the day. He also takes time to rest by playing Genshin Impact and listening and watching his LOMLs (loves of my life), Seventeen and Twice.
Beatrice Daniella “Bea” Negosa (Ikirara), Treasurer and Finance Committee Head
As someone who loves to learn new things every day, Bea enjoys leading the organization through managing its finances. She brainstorms on ways to ensure that money will not be an issue on every event, hence looking at possibilities on how to revolve and generate funds. She finds motivation in the achievements of the organization, its members, and the bonds she shares with the Executive Committee.
In fact, she also loves how the 38th Executive Committee is so supportive towards her work, among other things. “What makes the Executive Committee so special is our no-filter honesty. As much as possible, the 38th Executive Committee tries to reach out to one another. Being part of it is not merely a bunch of tasks to accomplish; we also give and gain motivation from one another to keep the enlivened spirits of everyone. We all believe that the organization will continue to reach feats as we keep everyone motivated with their passions unwavering. As I monitor the Finance Committee, I like how the members never overwork themselves,” she shares.
Apart from being the organization’s treasurer, she is also a senior under the degree program of BS Biology major in Genetics. She unwinds by eating her meals outside her home while she feels the outdoor breeze. “Nothing beats the comfort that nature brings to someone who needs rest,” she added.
Christian Allan “Chan” Natanauan (Ikirara), Public Relations Officer and Public Relations Committee Head
As GeneSoc’s resident caffeinated wordsmith, Chan enjoys writing and inspiring his committee to write the most eloquent captions for GeneSoc’s social media posts, to speak up in representing the organization to many external meetings, and a lot more responsibilities on communication. Nothing motivates him more than helping GeneSoc to carry on activities and advocacies throughout the years. “[It] is enough motivation for me to give my all as a leader in this 38th year and as a lifetime member of the organization, as well,” he added.
He also loves being part of the 38th Executive Committee. “What's amazing about the 38th Executive Committee is that it is a group of people that are very goal-driven and always take the time to intricately plan everything out. The care for the members and the org itself permeates through every activity, putting importance on everyone's mental health and wellbeing. Aside from that, I really love the energy of the Executive Committee, both in comedic matters and in providing innovative ideas,” he said.
“Being the PR Committee Head allows me to be immersed in different activities which are not only org-based—this position has helped me be present even in university-wide events and helped me hone my writing and management skills. What's good about working with anyone in GeneSoc is that most are easily-approachable and would be ready to help if their circumstances allow them to. A shout out to my PR Committee members who always accomplish their tasks with exemplary writing skills, I'm always proud of your works!” he responded when asked about what he likes the most in terms of his position.
When asked about his plans for the committee, he passionately responded: “It is of utmost importance that the PR Committee maintains the efforts it provides to the social presence of the organization. By supervising the different PR works and being active in external matters, I believe that this goal can be achieved, while also keeping the well-being of my committee members in mind. I also plan to improve the GeneSoc website, which can help broaden the reach of the org in its online presence. In the goal of creating awareness on the science of Genetics in the country, it is important that the external presence of GeneSoc is managed so that we may effectively inform others about how amazing genetics is through GeneSoc's activities and advocacies. But along with all of this, we still strive to extend consideration and leniency to the members, for their mental health and well-being.”
He is also a BS Biology junior who majors in Cell and Molecular Biology, so he balances his tasks via prioritization. In his free time, he loves watching sitcoms and sci-fi movies and listening to music to lighten up his mood.
Hanz Benedict Aguilar (Ikirara), Education Committee Head
Hanz’s passion in the science of Genetics and seeing everyone taking part in GeneSoc led him to take the responsibilities of the organization’s head of the Education Committee. During his time spent with the 38th Executive Committee, he fell in love with working with everyone. “We care for each other and lift our spirits despite the struggles we are facing. There’s always a genuine and uplifting atmosphere despite everyone’s busy schedules. We hold on to each other,” he added.
He also shared what he loved the most about being the Education Committee Head: “My position allows me to see the intellect of every committee member. I learn a lot from them—the way they write and speak makes me learn tactics in academics which I can apply even in life. In the Education Committee, everyone is so understanding whenever there are suggestions and points to raise.”
Hanz is also a BS Biology junior who majors in Wildlife Biology. He balances his responsibilities through proper time block assignments. He unwinds by playing mobile games and traveling with his bicycle.
Brian Alfred “Bam” Mortera (Crypton), Projects Committee Head
With the prowess on visual arts that would appease all known art deities, Bam offers his talents in promoting the science of Genetics in the Philippines. “I love that I am able to merge a hard science like Genetics with the Arts. It is a common trope that science and art are two very separate concepts, yet I am able to prove with my held position that these two are actually intertwined and inseparable,” he said.
He also loves being part of the diverse 38th Executive Committee and Projects Committee. “The 38th Executive Committee is filled with people with different talents and views in life, yet we are able to work together for our single goal: to promote the science of Genetics in the Philippines. We utilize our differences and turn them into each other's assets and help serve the organization in unique ways. I admire them for being so dedicated to their respective positions. Being able to work with such devoted individuals helps me remember why I'm doing all of this—to serve the people. For my committee, they have always been supportive with my plans for the committee and never fail to help me grow, both as a leader and as a person. They all work hard to help the organization in any way possible, and I love them so much for that.” he said.
“The mere fact that my act of organizing activities and people for certain causes can affect somebody in any way imaginable is what keeps me motivated to do what I do. Knowing that through our activities, we are able to inspire others to become future Filipino Scientists helps me push through with everything I am faced with,” Bam shares as we delve into what drives him to lead in GeneSoc.
But in terms of his goals for the committee, he shares: “As part of the Projects Committee, being able to conduct successful exhibit weeks is the main goal we wish to meet throughout this term. Aside from this, another goal of mine for the committee is to establish rapport within the committee and in between committees and to be able to collaborate with them to organize quality events. Being able to conduct the semestral exhibits coincide with the organization's objective to promote the science of Genetics in the Philippines, as well as serving as a study group for students interested in Genetics and its related fields where they can share insights, ideas, and breakthroughs, such as in this year's installation of Phenes and Inks.”
Bam is also a BS Biology junior who majors in Systematics, so he taught himself to prioritize his tasks to keep up with all his responsibilities. “A few hours of rest, playing games, and catching up with my special people helps me cope with everything going on inside my head,” he shared.
Paolo Miguel Anico (Crypton), Technicals Committee Head
Silent, simple, but ever-responsible and duty-driven, Paolo likes being the organization’s go-to person in organizing movie and game nights, troubleshooting, providing the technical aspects of events held during the remote learning setup, and other membership-related tasks. He also aims to build a legacy for the Technicals Committee by training members interested in the job. He would like to provide opportunities for them to learn the technical ins and outs. Other than his responsibilities in GeneSoc, he is also a BS Biology junior who majors in Cell and Molecular Biology. He likes to take breaks when needed and finds time to enjoy playing video games like VALORANT.
Fatima Serene “Patdee” Desuasido (Hachimoji), Publicity Committee Head
Patdee shares a passion for both Genetics and graphic design, which led her to be the 38th term’s Publicity Committee Head. Though she shows exemplary work in leading the design of the publicity materials of the organization and delegating tasks, her humility does not let it get to her. Nevertheless, she adores that she plays a part in her committees.
“I love how the 38th Executive Committee values self-care and rest! Jessi even banters about reprimanding us when we take up huge chunks of tasks without adequate rest. In terms of the Publicity Committee, I like how involved I am in the process of making and releasing publicity materials, especially in looking out for the members to ensure they do not get burned out. Also, everyone strives to make each other comfortable. I also look up to the skills of the publicity committee members. They always have many, different ideas to improve our publicity materials,” she shares.
“Art burnout is a real thing, so I see my role in ensuring that the committee members don’t experience that under my watch. Most of them do art for fun as a recreational activity, so I don’t want them to be stressed on the thing that relaxes them,” she answers when asked about her motivation for leading the publicity committee.
Patdee is now a junior student taking up BS Agricultural Biotechnology. In balancing her roles, she dedicates time for every task she listed based on its designated priority. She also takes breaks by finding some “me time” and watching movies with her sister while her phone is away.
Koozae Calvin Umali (Hachimoji), GENEWS Editor-in-Chief
In the midst of disinformation and misuse of power of the current regime, Koozae picked up the pen, shuffled through the parchment, and took up the challenge of leading the writing machinery of GeneSoc. A young mind with a sense of adventure and the willingness to learn and deliver amid challenges, he dived towards the responsibilities of leading and managing GENEWS and providing a voice for the masses through GeneSoc’s statements. He does not find the task a walk in the park, but he sure loves what he does along with the support of the 38th Executive Committee.
“In preparing for the role of EIC, I would look into it as a different way to know the org better. I perused the previous issues of GENEWS, and I knew the org better by reading the articles written before. Seeing how GENEWS was built challenges me to do better. I also love seeing my social skills improve as I coordinate with the editors and contributors, and I love how these interactions form bonds with them. As a whole, I love learning about many things,” Koozae answers when asked about what he loves the most about being an EIC.
On top of his responsibilities as an EIC, he is also a sophomore under the BS Biology program. He makes sure to take short breaks, savoring his time away from screen. He also unwinds by doing chores, watching TV, or listening and singing with OPM songs.
Alyannna Nicole “Bunik” Hidalgo (Ikirara), Outreach Committee Head
As someone who loves to inspire and be inspired, Bunik takes service towards the community close to her heart. This is exactly why Bunik loves leading the outreach programs of GeneSoc: constantly motivated by the people she aims to serve—the ones who need help the most in these trying times. “As someone who has never experienced participating in any school outreach activity but have always wanted to, this position holds a special place in my heart. I just love every single thing outreach stands for. We share a common goal; to help people and give them hope during these trying times,” she said as her eyes twinkled.
She also treasures every person in the 38th Executive Committee. “I just believe that I wouldn't ask for more. My fellow officers are extremely hard-working, flexible, and resilient. Yet, they never fail to make me smile, regardless of the situation. In fact, they always have my back. When problems arise, they aid me in finding solutions and they are quick to respond to my requests. For my own committee, words cannot describe how proud I am of them. Being in a position that requires leadership, it gave me anxiety as to how I could handle my committee. Regularly, I have doubts and fears but when I see my Outreach Committee trying their best, I get inspired to work just as hard, if not harder,” she narrates.
In terms of her goals for the committee, she said, “My goal is to conduct the outreach activities successfully without compromising one over another. I really want to provide as much help as we can, but at the same time, without jeopardizing the health of my committee members. I want them to feel and embody the real message of outreach. I believe all of these can be fulfilled with proper planning, contingency plans, and everyone’s satisfaction and enjoyment in taking part in outreach activities.”
Bunik is also a BS Biology junior who majors in Cell and Molecular Biology. She still continues to figure out the best way to juggle her responsibilities, but says that she has discovered how helpful task trackers and to-do lists can be. She also finds time to unwind. “I sleep, sleep, sleep. Talking with the Executive Committee really helps, too!” she said.
Princess Yra “Cess” De Silos (Ikirara), Genetics Camp Steering Committee Head
As a luminary, Cess enjoys taking charge of GeneSoc’s flagship national event, Genetics Camp. According to her, the 38th Executive Committee amazes her for taking up the challenge of leading and taking up responsibilities currently. “The Executive Committee shows professionalism yet accommodates one another, especially in matters about Genetics Camp,” she said. She also expressed her excitement in organizing and steering such a grand event. The thought of inspiring and bringing something worthwhile for the organization, the members, and GeneSoc’s beneficiaries motivates her.
“I saw everyone’s capability to make a difference and individual strengths and strategies to lead, so I also ask myself about my capability in making a difference. As a leader, I want to be someone reliable, approachable, and respectable, and I want to be the same kind of person to everyone who takes part in Genetics Camp,” she shares as she recalls her insights on GeneSoc’s leadership seminar.
“I want to inspire and motivate other people, especially young minds. That’s why I would want the heads and co-heads participating in Genetics Camp to know that they have people who they can lean on and hold on to. I want everyone, myself included, to rest in times of difficulty, but continue striving for the young students waiting to learn and have their fill of enjoyment in Genetics Camp, and hopefully, we can inspire them to pursue the sciences in the future. I only wish the best for Genetics Camp, so we’ll always do our best to ensure that the kids will have a good, if not the best, weekend during the two-day event,” she passionately shares.
Beyond her responsibilities in the organization, she is also a senior who takes up the BS Biology degree program and majors in Wildlife Biology. She balances her roles and responsibilities by sorting and prioritizing them in checklists. She also makes it a habit to do her academics in advance. For her wellbeing, she always allots time for herself and enjoys her “me time.”
Abegail “Abeng” Luna (Helraiser), National Intercollegiate Genetics Quiz Contest Steering Committee Head
While NIGQC will not push through for 2021, Abeng continues to use her leadership skills as a Genetics Camp co-head. Also, her inputs in leadership are very welcome in the 38th Executive Committee. “What I find laudable in the 38th Executive Committee is how flexible they are. As much as possible, they adjust matters to prioritize everyone’s well-being. All leaders show compassion, and all of them bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the table,” she said.
“I see how passionate the officers and the members are. Seeing them gives me the desire to be part of something meaningful,” Abeng said as she shares her motivation in leadership. “My utmost goal is to have a successful Genetics Camp—one which everyone enjoys. I believe that this is possible through thorough preparation. I see how hardworking Cess is, and I am willing to extend my hands to help. Along with fulfilling these goals, I’d love to continuously instill why we hold these kinds of events. So, I would want more young minds and even the members to continue their interest in Genetics and its allied fields” she narrates.
Abeng is also a BS Biology senior who majors in Genetics. She likes to manage her time to balance her responsibilities. She also unwinds by playing video games and finding time for adequate sleep.
Andriana “Ania” Crisostomo (Ikirara), Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health Committee Head
Ever since Ania fell in love with the advocacies of VYLH-Philippines, they have been inseparable ever since. Her heart goes for all the pregnant women and neonates of the Philippines, and her role as the VYLH Committee head magnifies that well. “It feels great to help and contribute to saving lives, especially babies’ lives. Even though we are in an online setup, it is still fulfilling to see your advocacies spread to give them a chance to live a normal, long, and healthy life,” she said.
She also shares how the 38th Executive Committee became her comfort zone. “The people I work with drive me to keep going—they’re very engaging and encouraging to work with. Even though we laugh and joke a lot, we know when to put on a serious, focused face. Our tasks may be shifted away from our usual comfort zones, but the committee always helps to adjust,” she shared.
“My main goal is to establish the organizations who would want to be part of VYLH-Los Baños, which is currently ongoing. I also aim for GeneSoc members to ultimately become members of VYLH-Philippines, so I coordinate closely with the officers of VYLH. Through this stronger foundation of VYLH-Los Baños, we can work more effectively towards a healthier Philippines,” she narrated.
Other than leading the VYLH Committee, she also is a BS Biology junior who majors in Genetics. To manage her responsibilities, she makes it a habit to list all her tasks and assign them on their respective day of the week. She is also never stingy when it comes to finding time for herself by practicing social media detox, playing mobile games, chatting with her friends, working out, or playing the piano.
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