The Crisis and Emergency Response Unit (CERU) of the Security and Safety Office (SSO) unveiled and launched “UPLB READY BATINGAW,” an alternative fire alarm device that they designed due to the prevalence of non-functioning alarm systems on the campus.

BATINGAW, which is a Filipino term for a large bell or gong, is also an acronym that means Babala at Abiso para sa TIyak Na kaliGtasan ng bAWat isa (warning and notice for the safety of everyone).

To come up with the fire alarm devices, CERU recycled materials such as unused LPG tanks, dumbbell weights, and metal chains, inspired by learnings gained by Special Police Assistant Chief Jonathan D. Maliwat for his Master in Crisis and Disaster Risk Management at the Philippine Public Safety College. With his completion of his Master’s degree, Maliwat sees Batingaw as part of his return service obligation to UPLB. 

During the launch that was held at 9 a.m. on March 22, 2024, at the UPLB Student Union Building, Security Officer II Grizelda Penales-Marza gave a backgrounder on the rationale behind BATINGAW, underlining its pivotal role in fostering a culture of safety and readiness in the campus.

She said that CERU conceptualized BATINGAW to embody more than a fire alarm device but as a beacon of UPLB’s unwavering commitment to cultivating a safety, readiness, and community resilience culture. She further compared the BATINGAW to a steadfast guardian, which ensures that the UPLB community remains vigilant, informed, and safe amidst ongoing challenges and uncertainties.

Guests during the launch included Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs Roberto P. Cereno, who highlighted the importance of proactive safety measures in safeguarding the UPLB community.

Chancellor Jose V. Camacho, Jr. extended his heartfelt gratitude to all involved in bringing BATINGAW from conceptualization to its official launch. He commended the dedication and collaborative spirit of the team, acknowledging their tireless efforts in ensuring the safety and well-being of every member of the UPLB community.

Response messages were delivered by Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Janette M. Silva, CEAT Student Council representative Marc Angelo Roma, along with other key figures such as University Planning and Maintenance Office (UPMO) Director Haerold Dean Layaoen and Architect Jeffrey Rañola, who echoed the university’s commitment to safety and readiness, and its potential to revolutionize emergency response protocols on campus.

The event concluded with Deputy Director SOIV Renee Johnson M. Melgar giving the closing remarks, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in maximizing the effectiveness of BATINGAW. Attendees then had the opportunity to participate in a photo session, capturing the spirit of unity and dedication toward a safer and more resilient UPLB.

SSO, which is under the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs (OVCCA), partnered with the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs (OVCSA) to launch and unveil BATINGAW.

CERU credits faculty members Dr. Antonio P. Contreras of the School of Environmental Science and Management; Mark Lester Del Mundo Chico of the College of Development Communication and director of the Office of Public Relations; and Jerry Yapo of the College of Arts and Sciences and former director of the UPLB Office for Initiatives in Culture and the Arts for helping them design the batingaw. (Grizelda Penales-Marza)