Rightfully earning its title as Home of Bicol Achievers, the University of Northeastern Philippines (UNEP) added another laurel on its cap when its High School Department landed 1st runner up during the 2009 Students Technologists and Entrepreneurs of the Philippines (STEP-DSC) competition conducted on September 16 and 17 at Zeperino Arroyo High School in Iriga City .

        The competition was participated in by public and private secondary schools in the division in compliance with DepEd Memorandum No.348 series of 2009 with this year’s theme, “ STEP: Upgrading Skills, Improving Lives.” It aims to enhance the capability of the students in skills development and lifelong learning and upgrade the teachers’ capability in coaching and judging skills development activities.

        UNEP President Atty. Remelisa Alfelor-Moraleda expressed her elation and was jubilant with the recent accomplishment of their students. “They are already winners even before they joined the competition. I would say that the participants in the STEP-DSC contest belong to the ‘cream of the crop.’ They were all first place winners in all skills and non skills contest events and that is one of the prerequisites before they can join the STEP competition. The university is really so proud of their achievement.”

        Patrick Allan V. Peralta was cited as Mr. STEP 2009 and has earned for himself the Best in Filipiniana Attire and Best in Swim Wear titles. Stunning Nikki Charmaine B. Alfelor also won for herself the most coveted title of Miss STEP 2009 and capped the title for Best in Filipiniana attire. She also occupied the second place in the Facial Make-up and Trimming competition.

        Christopher Jean N. Manlapaz grabbed the 1st place win in the Electronics Poster- Making contest while Ma. Angelica M. Sergio and Maria Jela M. Moran, landed second and third respectively, on the Electronic Spread Sheet contest and Skirting and Table Setting, napkin Folding and Flower arrangement competition.

        The teachers and coaches, who have guided and supported their students all through out the competition, were Ms. Marivic S. Breboneria, Juvy A. Calabines, Roger L. Nierva, Gina B. Uvero, Hyan C. Nacario ,Nino Roger N. Dacara and Mrs. Edith O. Martinez. They were also very thankful for the full support of their principal, Mrs. Maria P. Dela Vega.

        This activity will surely strengthen UNEP’s academic resolve to keep on aspiring and continue giving the best quality education that all UNEPIANS truly deserve.