The University of Batangas (UB) Junior High School (JHS) successfully conducted the 2nd Author Engagement Session of the UBianREAD (Read, Engage, Achieve, Discover) Program on January 22, 2026, at the UB JHS Learning Resource Center (LRC), strengthening the institution’s commitment to literacy, lifelong learning, and student engagement.
The session featured Ms. Jane Vergara, a distinguished author and professional from Bulacnin, Lipa City, as the guest speaker. She authored the Breaking the Scroll trilogy and the novel The Gap Between Forever. She also served as Chief Information Officer of a Philippine bank for 25 years and holds credentials as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Internal Auditor (CIA). Beyond her corporate career, she actively practices painting, sketching, and creative writing, embodying a balance of analytical and artistic skills.
A total of 177 UB JHS students attended the event, actively participating in the discussion and engaging with the author’s insights on storytelling, creativity, and discipline in writing.
Mrs. Leizel P. Natanuan, JHS Librarian, formally opened the program. Mrs. May M. Corong, Chief Librarian, delivered the welcome remarks and emphasized the library’s role in nurturing a strong reading culture. Dr. Augusto C. Africa, Basic Education Director and Senior High School (SHS) Principal, delivered the message of support and highlighted the importance of author engagements in developing critical thinking and creativity among learners.
Ms. Trisha D. Magno, Faculty Researcher of the Research Publications Office (RPO), presented the overview of the UBianREAD Program and reiterated its goals of promoting reading, engagement, and discovery across basic education. Ms. Clarisse Ann B. Conti, SHS Librarian, introduced Ms. Vergara and underscored her multifaceted career as a model of excellence for students.
During the session, Ms. Vergara shared her journey as a writer and professional, encouraging students to read widely, write consistently, and pursue their passions with discipline and curiosity. She emphasized that reading and creative expression build confidence, empathy, and lifelong learning skills.
Ms. Jessa C. Ramos, Assistant Principal for Student Affairs of the JHS, delivered the closing remarks and thanked the organizers, speakers, and participants for ensuring the program’s success.
The UBianREAD’s 2nd Author Engagement Session directly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education by promoting inclusive and equitable quality education through literacy and student-centered learning initiatives. The program also reflects SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by fostering collaboration among educators, librarians, researchers, and creative professionals to enrich the academic experience of UB students.