Get useful information regarding students activities and likes
Get useful information regarding students activities and likes
Continuing the legacy of merit-based selection, Louie T. Guerrero, top 1 applicant, took his oath as Legal Assistant III of the University Legal Unit before CatSU OIC Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr. on March 13 at the Office of the President. Guerrero, who previously served as Executive Assistant III under the Executive Assistance Services, secured the post through a stringent selection process by the Personnel Selection Board chaired by Vice President Benjamin Hannycel T. Nuyda. Meritocracy stood as one of the hallmarks of then-President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza’s administration, ensuring top-caliber hires for the university.
“I think it’s perfect since nobody got hurt. Today was an excellent job,” expressed by Mr. Andrew Hoar, an international disaster specialist who personally observed the earthquake drill featuring simulated emergency scenarios, which was hosted by Catanduanes State University on Thursday afternoon, March 13, in collaboration with various law enforcement and disaster response agencies. Hoar emphasized that safety is a key component of any disaster response, and suggested minor improvements, such as avoiding speeding and backing up vehicles onsite since during the simulation, emergency vehicles, including ambulances and fire trucks, responded promptly to conduct high-angle operations and extinguish a simulated fire at the university gymnasium. The 1st Quarter National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) simulated an 8.1 magnitude quake, where at 3:00 PM, a loud siren prompted CatSU employees and students to evacuate their classrooms and offices and head to designated safe areas. Other disaster response officials also provided feedback, applauding the quick response of the rescue teams and praising the inter-agency cooperation. They looked forward to more drills and training to continue improving the disaster preparedness of all involved. During the exercise, the CatSU community, led by Officer-in-Charge Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., witnessed simulated fires, search and rescue operations, and a rescue where a victim was lifted using a makeshift zipline from the top of a university building to the flagpole. Vice President for Administrative Affairs Engr. Benjamin Hannycel T. Nuyda expressed his gratitude and commendation to the responders, led by the director of simulation, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office Chief Luis P. Surtida Jr., for successfully conducting the earthquake drill with multiple emergency scenarios. Other participating agencies included the Catanduanes Provincial Police Office, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of Virac, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Army, Philippine Red Cross, CatSU Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, Provincial Engineering Office, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and Provincial Health Office, among others.
San Andres Hall of Justice opened its doors to the pioneer law students of Catanduanes State University College of Law (CatSU-COL) for a court observation under Hon. Judge Catherine A. Baldos of the San Andres Municipal Trial Court, March 12, 2025. The students sat in on a pre-trial hearing, in real courtroom proceedings as part of their Civil Procedure course. Judge Baldos lauded their eagerness to grasp court protocols and witness cases at their pre-trial stages.
A blood donation drive on March 8 at the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Gymnasium yielded 150 bags, totaling 67,500cc of blood, in a daylong activity led by the 503rd Community Defense Center. Lt. Col. Josephus Emar M. Rempillo, director of the 503rd CDC, said the initiative is part of their sustained efforts as Citizen Army Builders, working alongside line government agencies, local government units, and volunteer groups to extend essential services to Catandunganons. In a letter dated March 13 to CatSU OIC Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., Rempillo commended the university’s support in providing critical resources and logistics for the event. He assured their continued commitment to similar undertakings in the province.
“Your classroom will be a microcosm of the world," Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Officer-in-Charge laid bare the realities of teaching before student-interns at BEED Mentoring Program, March 12 at the gymnasium. Speaking to Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEED) interns deployed in public schools, Dr. Barba urged them to embrace both the joys and struggles of the profession—balancing lesson plans, managing diverse learners, handling workplace dynamics, and shouldering unexpected responsibilities. “Minsan, mapapatanong ka rin: ‘Pinili ko ba ito o pinili ako nito?’” he quipped, drawing laughter from the audience. As a father of three, Dr. Barba likened teaching to parenting, saying educators shape not just academic knowledge but also values and character. He reminded the interns that every classroom mirrors the larger world, where they will face challenges requiring both adaptability and compassion. “Teaching is beyond textbooks. It’s about understanding your students, responding to their needs, and preparing them for the real world,” he said. He also gave a candid glimpse into school realities—handling parent-teacher relationships, managing professional dynamics with colleagues and superiors, and handling the inevitable pressures of the job. He ended with a call for resilience, reminding them that teaching demands both intellect and heart. “Kung may pagkakataong mapagod, magpahinga pero huwag sumuko.” The BEED Mentoring Program is spearheaded by the College of Education with its Dean Dr. Maria Sheila R. Gregorio and Teacher Education Chairperson Dr. Edna A. Pante. The program continues to equip student-interns with firsthand insights from experienced mentors who are alumni of the university.
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) athletes shined in the 2025 Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA) Games, hauling 88 medals—20 gold, 38 silver, and 30 bronze—marking a major leap from last season’s 13-gold tally. Battling against eight other Bicol universities, CatSU clinched 5th place overall in the meet, held from February 17 to 21 at Camarines Norte State College. Kudos to our athletes, coaches, and staff for this stellar run!
Juris Doctor student Cloyd Roland I. Bernardo and BS in Internal Auditing student Remy T. Teves of Catanduanes State University (CatSU) claimed their FAAV Sponsor-Based Philippine Scholarship Stipend Certificates on February 21. CatSU Officer-in-Charge Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr. and former CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, FAAV’s authorized representative, handed the certificates, affirming their inclusion in the program. Bernardo and Teves draw 50,000 pesos each for SY 2024-2025 under the Filipino-American Association of Vancouver (FAAV) grant. FAAV Scholarship Committee Chair Maria Rita Schaljo stated in a letter that the aid backs costs for books, transport, food, school supplies, tech, and other needs. Azanza, who helped link FAAV’s scholarship to CatSU along with Mr. Hurbert Gianan and Ms. Theresa Mallari, noted that the selection process was tough, ensuring that only deserving students gained support. Teves, an ROTC cadet and honor student, shared that the aid let her secure key books on internal auditing, easing her studies. OIC Barba urged scholars to grasp the rare break, stressing that both sponsors and CatSU expect them to rise in their fields.
In a tribute to National Arts Month, a poetry writeshop titled Balhag: Pagsulat ng mga Akdang Nakaugat sa Danas ng Komunidad was held on February 20, 2025, at the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Little Theater, sharpening the literary craft of participants through community-rooted storytelling. Mounted by the Sentro ng Wika at Kulturang Filipino (SWKF) in tandem with the Center for Culture and Arts - Hablon Dawani (CCA) and Virac-based Aklat Ulagad, the session pulled in aspiring poets eager to refine their voices. Dr. Allan C. Popa, renowned writer, author, and editor, urged participants to mine their communities for poetic material, asserting that the most resonant narratives often emerge from lived experiences. He pressed writers to embrace the depth of local culture, to reinforce the power of intimate, place-based storytelling. Attendees sharpened their skills through guided writing exercises, with select participants stepping forward to deliver their freshly penned works before the audience. CCA-Hablon Dawani Director Santos G. Sorra Jr. kicked off the event, while Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs Dr. Rosana S. Abundo extended institutional support in a brief message. Capping the session, SWKF Director Dr. Jovert R. Balunsay commended the participants and lauded Popa for steering the conversation toward a deeper appreciation of community-driven poetry.
“Let’s make it happen. Let’s make it Bicol.” This was the challenge posed by CHED Regional Director Dr. Demetrio P. Anduyan Jr., CESO III, as he urged student journalists to dominate the Luzon-wide Higher Education Press Conference (LHEPC). Speaking at the opening of the 22nd Regional Tertiary Schools Press Conference (RTSPC) at Catanduanes State University (CatSU), Anduyan rallied the 416 participants from 33 student publications to sharpen their craft and take responsibility for their influence. “We have this RTSPC as we wish to add more to the reservoir of talents in our region—more presentable and confident personalities with the ability to write and present information accurately and concisely,” he stressed. Anduyan, a former TESDA provincial director in Catanduanes, praised the record turnout, noting that Bicol’s participation had tripled compared to other regional press conferences. He challenged the campus scribes to push the region to the top, declaring that five of the ten best LHEPC winners should come from Bicol. “Be a good influencer,” he urged, reminding student journalists to uphold truth and public welfare in their writing. The RTSPC, co-hosted by the Association of Tertiary Schools Publication Advisers of Bicol, Inc. (ATSPAB), features competitions in individual and group journalism categories. The top five winners in each event, along with the champion in Radio Script Writing and Broadcasting, will advance to LHEPC in Lucban, Quezon, from April 2 to 4.
The Catanduanes State University successfully passed its first surveillance audit for its ISO 9001:2015 certification evaluated by the representatives from TUV Rheinland Philippines, Inc., on February 25. With the College of Health Sciences’ "very high passing rate" in the nursing board exam over the past two years, the auditors lauded the university’s above the national average performance. They also noted the implementation of the Quality Management System (QMS) in university documents. Meanwhile, for areas that need further improvements, the auditors made some recommendations. The audit team, led by Ms. Lynn Gerzon with auditors Ms. Mary Grace Balobalo, Ms. Jessy Jessica Rosit, Mr. Eufronio Alonzo, and Mr. Rafael Magsino, confirmed that CatSU complied with the ISO 9001:2015 standards with no major non-conformities. “The Catanduanes State University has established and maintains an effective system to ensure compliance with its policy and objectives. The audit team confirms that the organization’s management system complies with, adequately maintains and implements the requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 standard,” the lead auditor expressed. The audit began with an Opening Meeting attended by top university management and unit heads on February 24, followed by an audit to assess compliance with the certified management systems. Interviews were conducted with key officials from both Main and Panganiban campuses to verify conformance on the processes. Class observations were also carried out in colleges and laboratory schools. Joining the closing meeting were ISO Chairperson and Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs Engr. Benjamin Hannycel T. Nuyda, and Officer-in-Charge Dr. Roberto B. Barba, along with other officials from top management and unit heads.
Political Science team from Catanduanes State University (CatSU) ruled the 2nd Bicol Political Science Consortium on February 21-22, 2025, at the University of Nueva Caceres, Naga City, beating teams from Ateneo de Naga University, Bicol College, the University of Northeastern Philippines, the University of Saint Anthony, and the host UNC. Czymon Balmadrid, Mikayla Soliveres, and Joshua Cariño topped the Politica Scientia Quiz Bee, while Aira Suplig seized 2nd place in Extemporaneous Speech. The 31-member team, led by Asst. Prof. Kristine Anne Razal and PSS Adviser Mr. Jobesan Yusores, also joined forums with lawyer-speakers, including senatorial aspirant Atty. Luke Espiritu, tackling elections, human rights, and political dynasties. During their courtesy call to OIC President Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., he praised their wins and hailed the Political Science Society’s role in pushing CatSU’s mark of excellence. The team also set plans with OIC Barba for CatSU’s bid to host next year’s meet, which would raise the program’s name across Bicol. With report from Mr. Jobesan Yusores
Inaugurated on June 28, 2024, the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) College of Law officially became a member of the Philippine Association of Law Schools (PALS) when Dean Atty. Santiago T. Gabionza Jr. and Associate Dean Atty. Gregorio M. Sarmiento Jr. represented the institution and joined the 2025 PALS Annual Convention. The CatSU-College of Law was one of the law schools in the country that received an invitation letter dated November 29, 2024, from PALS President Teodoro A. Pastrana for the event, recognizing its successful membership application to the organization. In collaboration with the Legal Education Board (LEB), the three-day in-person convention brought together law school deans, assistant deans, and professors from across the country to exchange insights, share best practices, and strengthen partnerships between PALS and LEB. Notable speakers included Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo, Associate Justice Amy C. Lazaro-Javier, chairperson of the 2025 Bar Examinations, and Associate Justice Mario V. Lopez, chairperson of the 2024 Bar Examinations. With the theme "Excellence in Legal Education: Transforming Society through LEB-PALS Collaboration," the convention took place from January 20 to 22, 2025, at the Park Inn by Radisson Clark, Clark Freeport Zone, Mabalacat City, Pampanga.
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) has landed in the January 2025 Webometrics Ranking of World Universities. Released on Jan. 27, the rankings evaluate universities based on online presence, research impact, and visibility. The latest report remains in its beta phase, with details on specific assessment areas—Impact, Openness, and Excellence—yet to be finalized. Webometrics, published biannually by the Cybermetrics Lab under Spain’s National Research Council (CSIC), measures how institutions share research online. Meanwhile, CatSU pushes to enter the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Stars Rating Audit, a move proposed to gain institutional insights from a global source by receiving a comprehensive analysis of the university’s strengths and weaknesses. This initiative aims to assist CatSU in its levelling as a State University and College (SUC) and attract both domestic and international students. Under OIC Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., the university builds on the legacy of former President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, who led CatSU’s inclusion in major global rankings like THE Impact Rankings, WURI, and UI Green Metric, where it ranked 8th in the Philippines and 481st worldwide. CHED recognizes QS, THE, and WURI as key global ranking bodies under the Transnational Higher Education Act (RA 11448).
Creativity thrived at Catanduanes State University as CatSU and the Catanduanes Provincial Police Office (CatPPO) launched Women’s Month with a creative crafts workshop, March 5, 2025 at the CatSU Extension Training Hall. Over 80 policewomen and non-uniformed personnel teamed up in crochet, card making, corsage crafting, and certificate holder production. Dr. Rosana S. Abundo, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs, stood in for Officer-in-Charge Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., who is attending the 2025 SUC first quarter governing meeting in Marikina. She lauded the CatSU-CatPPO partnership, citing its personal and professional impact on participants. CatPPO Provincial Director PCol Edward D. Quijano, through his representative, pushed the event’s aim to spark creativity, resilience, and resourcefulness among CatPPO’s women personnel. He also linked this year’s theme, “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,” to a vision of inclusive progress. The College of Industrial Technology led the workshop, with Extension Coordinator Jade Jean P. Uchi and CIT Indigenous Creative Crafts Manager Jeiscelle Tomagan steering the activities. Tomagan pointed out that the certificate holder-making activity supports local abaca farmers by using abaca-based materials.
The latest Uswag Journal: Philippine Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (Vol. 2, Issue 2, July – December 2024) is now available on the Catanduanes State University website, featuring twice the number of research articles from its previous issue. Submitted by Research and Development Services (RDS) Director Dr. Jose Z. Tria, the journal presents 10 peer-reviewed studies across various fields, each rigorously reviewed, revised, and finalized by experts. Uswag, meaning “development,” serves as CatSU’s official research journal. Indexed in the Philippine E-Journals (PEJ) since 2024, it ensures wider global access. Visit this link https://catsu.edu.ph/uswag.php
Honest service.
Outstanding and globally-competitive educational standards.
People-centered and planet-friendly programs where social safety nets are in place and harmony with the ecosystem is considered sacred. And above all, we shall provide for
Equal opportunity and fair treatment to all, where meritocracy, qualifications and potentials are given premium, instead of patronage and kinship relations.
By: Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza
SUC President III
“The University is the fruit of all the labors of every Catandunganon. The university is us”.
By: Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza
CatSU SUC President III
Get useful information regarding students activities and likes
Get useful information regarding students activities and likes
Continuing the legacy of merit-based selection, Louie T. Guerrero, top 1 applicant, took his oath as Legal Assistant III of the University Legal Unit before CatSU OIC Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr. on March 13 at the Office of the President. Guerrero, who previously served as Executive Assistant III under the Executive Assistance Services, secured the post through a stringent selection process by the Personnel Selection Board chaired by Vice President Benjamin Hannycel T. Nuyda. Meritocracy stood as one of the hallmarks of then-President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza’s administration, ensuring top-caliber hires for the university.
“I think it’s perfect since nobody got hurt. Today was an excellent job,” expressed by Mr. Andrew Hoar, an international disaster specialist who personally observed the earthquake drill featuring simulated emergency scenarios, which was hosted by Catanduanes State University on Thursday afternoon, March 13, in collaboration with various law enforcement and disaster response agencies. Hoar emphasized that safety is a key component of any disaster response, and suggested minor improvements, such as avoiding speeding and backing up vehicles onsite since during the simulation, emergency vehicles, including ambulances and fire trucks, responded promptly to conduct high-angle operations and extinguish a simulated fire at the university gymnasium. The 1st Quarter National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) simulated an 8.1 magnitude quake, where at 3:00 PM, a loud siren prompted CatSU employees and students to evacuate their classrooms and offices and head to designated safe areas. Other disaster response officials also provided feedback, applauding the quick response of the rescue teams and praising the inter-agency cooperation. They looked forward to more drills and training to continue improving the disaster preparedness of all involved. During the exercise, the CatSU community, led by Officer-in-Charge Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., witnessed simulated fires, search and rescue operations, and a rescue where a victim was lifted using a makeshift zipline from the top of a university building to the flagpole. Vice President for Administrative Affairs Engr. Benjamin Hannycel T. Nuyda expressed his gratitude and commendation to the responders, led by the director of simulation, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office Chief Luis P. Surtida Jr., for successfully conducting the earthquake drill with multiple emergency scenarios. Other participating agencies included the Catanduanes Provincial Police Office, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of Virac, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Army, Philippine Red Cross, CatSU Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, Provincial Engineering Office, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and Provincial Health Office, among others.
San Andres Hall of Justice opened its doors to the pioneer law students of Catanduanes State University College of Law (CatSU-COL) for a court observation under Hon. Judge Catherine A. Baldos of the San Andres Municipal Trial Court, March 12, 2025. The students sat in on a pre-trial hearing, in real courtroom proceedings as part of their Civil Procedure course. Judge Baldos lauded their eagerness to grasp court protocols and witness cases at their pre-trial stages.
A blood donation drive on March 8 at the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Gymnasium yielded 150 bags, totaling 67,500cc of blood, in a daylong activity led by the 503rd Community Defense Center. Lt. Col. Josephus Emar M. Rempillo, director of the 503rd CDC, said the initiative is part of their sustained efforts as Citizen Army Builders, working alongside line government agencies, local government units, and volunteer groups to extend essential services to Catandunganons. In a letter dated March 13 to CatSU OIC Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., Rempillo commended the university’s support in providing critical resources and logistics for the event. He assured their continued commitment to similar undertakings in the province.
“Your classroom will be a microcosm of the world," Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Officer-in-Charge laid bare the realities of teaching before student-interns at BEED Mentoring Program, March 12 at the gymnasium. Speaking to Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEED) interns deployed in public schools, Dr. Barba urged them to embrace both the joys and struggles of the profession—balancing lesson plans, managing diverse learners, handling workplace dynamics, and shouldering unexpected responsibilities. “Minsan, mapapatanong ka rin: ‘Pinili ko ba ito o pinili ako nito?’” he quipped, drawing laughter from the audience. As a father of three, Dr. Barba likened teaching to parenting, saying educators shape not just academic knowledge but also values and character. He reminded the interns that every classroom mirrors the larger world, where they will face challenges requiring both adaptability and compassion. “Teaching is beyond textbooks. It’s about understanding your students, responding to their needs, and preparing them for the real world,” he said. He also gave a candid glimpse into school realities—handling parent-teacher relationships, managing professional dynamics with colleagues and superiors, and handling the inevitable pressures of the job. He ended with a call for resilience, reminding them that teaching demands both intellect and heart. “Kung may pagkakataong mapagod, magpahinga pero huwag sumuko.” The BEED Mentoring Program is spearheaded by the College of Education with its Dean Dr. Maria Sheila R. Gregorio and Teacher Education Chairperson Dr. Edna A. Pante. The program continues to equip student-interns with firsthand insights from experienced mentors who are alumni of the university.
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) athletes shined in the 2025 Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA) Games, hauling 88 medals—20 gold, 38 silver, and 30 bronze—marking a major leap from last season’s 13-gold tally. Battling against eight other Bicol universities, CatSU clinched 5th place overall in the meet, held from February 17 to 21 at Camarines Norte State College. Kudos to our athletes, coaches, and staff for this stellar run!
Juris Doctor student Cloyd Roland I. Bernardo and BS in Internal Auditing student Remy T. Teves of Catanduanes State University (CatSU) claimed their FAAV Sponsor-Based Philippine Scholarship Stipend Certificates on February 21. CatSU Officer-in-Charge Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr. and former CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, FAAV’s authorized representative, handed the certificates, affirming their inclusion in the program. Bernardo and Teves draw 50,000 pesos each for SY 2024-2025 under the Filipino-American Association of Vancouver (FAAV) grant. FAAV Scholarship Committee Chair Maria Rita Schaljo stated in a letter that the aid backs costs for books, transport, food, school supplies, tech, and other needs. Azanza, who helped link FAAV’s scholarship to CatSU along with Mr. Hurbert Gianan and Ms. Theresa Mallari, noted that the selection process was tough, ensuring that only deserving students gained support. Teves, an ROTC cadet and honor student, shared that the aid let her secure key books on internal auditing, easing her studies. OIC Barba urged scholars to grasp the rare break, stressing that both sponsors and CatSU expect them to rise in their fields.
In a tribute to National Arts Month, a poetry writeshop titled Balhag: Pagsulat ng mga Akdang Nakaugat sa Danas ng Komunidad was held on February 20, 2025, at the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Little Theater, sharpening the literary craft of participants through community-rooted storytelling. Mounted by the Sentro ng Wika at Kulturang Filipino (SWKF) in tandem with the Center for Culture and Arts - Hablon Dawani (CCA) and Virac-based Aklat Ulagad, the session pulled in aspiring poets eager to refine their voices. Dr. Allan C. Popa, renowned writer, author, and editor, urged participants to mine their communities for poetic material, asserting that the most resonant narratives often emerge from lived experiences. He pressed writers to embrace the depth of local culture, to reinforce the power of intimate, place-based storytelling. Attendees sharpened their skills through guided writing exercises, with select participants stepping forward to deliver their freshly penned works before the audience. CCA-Hablon Dawani Director Santos G. Sorra Jr. kicked off the event, while Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs Dr. Rosana S. Abundo extended institutional support in a brief message. Capping the session, SWKF Director Dr. Jovert R. Balunsay commended the participants and lauded Popa for steering the conversation toward a deeper appreciation of community-driven poetry.
“Let’s make it happen. Let’s make it Bicol.” This was the challenge posed by CHED Regional Director Dr. Demetrio P. Anduyan Jr., CESO III, as he urged student journalists to dominate the Luzon-wide Higher Education Press Conference (LHEPC). Speaking at the opening of the 22nd Regional Tertiary Schools Press Conference (RTSPC) at Catanduanes State University (CatSU), Anduyan rallied the 416 participants from 33 student publications to sharpen their craft and take responsibility for their influence. “We have this RTSPC as we wish to add more to the reservoir of talents in our region—more presentable and confident personalities with the ability to write and present information accurately and concisely,” he stressed. Anduyan, a former TESDA provincial director in Catanduanes, praised the record turnout, noting that Bicol’s participation had tripled compared to other regional press conferences. He challenged the campus scribes to push the region to the top, declaring that five of the ten best LHEPC winners should come from Bicol. “Be a good influencer,” he urged, reminding student journalists to uphold truth and public welfare in their writing. The RTSPC, co-hosted by the Association of Tertiary Schools Publication Advisers of Bicol, Inc. (ATSPAB), features competitions in individual and group journalism categories. The top five winners in each event, along with the champion in Radio Script Writing and Broadcasting, will advance to LHEPC in Lucban, Quezon, from April 2 to 4.
The Catanduanes State University successfully passed its first surveillance audit for its ISO 9001:2015 certification evaluated by the representatives from TUV Rheinland Philippines, Inc., on February 25. With the College of Health Sciences’ "very high passing rate" in the nursing board exam over the past two years, the auditors lauded the university’s above the national average performance. They also noted the implementation of the Quality Management System (QMS) in university documents. Meanwhile, for areas that need further improvements, the auditors made some recommendations. The audit team, led by Ms. Lynn Gerzon with auditors Ms. Mary Grace Balobalo, Ms. Jessy Jessica Rosit, Mr. Eufronio Alonzo, and Mr. Rafael Magsino, confirmed that CatSU complied with the ISO 9001:2015 standards with no major non-conformities. “The Catanduanes State University has established and maintains an effective system to ensure compliance with its policy and objectives. The audit team confirms that the organization’s management system complies with, adequately maintains and implements the requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 standard,” the lead auditor expressed. The audit began with an Opening Meeting attended by top university management and unit heads on February 24, followed by an audit to assess compliance with the certified management systems. Interviews were conducted with key officials from both Main and Panganiban campuses to verify conformance on the processes. Class observations were also carried out in colleges and laboratory schools. Joining the closing meeting were ISO Chairperson and Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs Engr. Benjamin Hannycel T. Nuyda, and Officer-in-Charge Dr. Roberto B. Barba, along with other officials from top management and unit heads.
Political Science team from Catanduanes State University (CatSU) ruled the 2nd Bicol Political Science Consortium on February 21-22, 2025, at the University of Nueva Caceres, Naga City, beating teams from Ateneo de Naga University, Bicol College, the University of Northeastern Philippines, the University of Saint Anthony, and the host UNC. Czymon Balmadrid, Mikayla Soliveres, and Joshua Cariño topped the Politica Scientia Quiz Bee, while Aira Suplig seized 2nd place in Extemporaneous Speech. The 31-member team, led by Asst. Prof. Kristine Anne Razal and PSS Adviser Mr. Jobesan Yusores, also joined forums with lawyer-speakers, including senatorial aspirant Atty. Luke Espiritu, tackling elections, human rights, and political dynasties. During their courtesy call to OIC President Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., he praised their wins and hailed the Political Science Society’s role in pushing CatSU’s mark of excellence. The team also set plans with OIC Barba for CatSU’s bid to host next year’s meet, which would raise the program’s name across Bicol. With report from Mr. Jobesan Yusores
Inaugurated on June 28, 2024, the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) College of Law officially became a member of the Philippine Association of Law Schools (PALS) when Dean Atty. Santiago T. Gabionza Jr. and Associate Dean Atty. Gregorio M. Sarmiento Jr. represented the institution and joined the 2025 PALS Annual Convention. The CatSU-College of Law was one of the law schools in the country that received an invitation letter dated November 29, 2024, from PALS President Teodoro A. Pastrana for the event, recognizing its successful membership application to the organization. In collaboration with the Legal Education Board (LEB), the three-day in-person convention brought together law school deans, assistant deans, and professors from across the country to exchange insights, share best practices, and strengthen partnerships between PALS and LEB. Notable speakers included Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo, Associate Justice Amy C. Lazaro-Javier, chairperson of the 2025 Bar Examinations, and Associate Justice Mario V. Lopez, chairperson of the 2024 Bar Examinations. With the theme "Excellence in Legal Education: Transforming Society through LEB-PALS Collaboration," the convention took place from January 20 to 22, 2025, at the Park Inn by Radisson Clark, Clark Freeport Zone, Mabalacat City, Pampanga.
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) has landed in the January 2025 Webometrics Ranking of World Universities. Released on Jan. 27, the rankings evaluate universities based on online presence, research impact, and visibility. The latest report remains in its beta phase, with details on specific assessment areas—Impact, Openness, and Excellence—yet to be finalized. Webometrics, published biannually by the Cybermetrics Lab under Spain’s National Research Council (CSIC), measures how institutions share research online. Meanwhile, CatSU pushes to enter the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Stars Rating Audit, a move proposed to gain institutional insights from a global source by receiving a comprehensive analysis of the university’s strengths and weaknesses. This initiative aims to assist CatSU in its levelling as a State University and College (SUC) and attract both domestic and international students. Under OIC Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., the university builds on the legacy of former President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, who led CatSU’s inclusion in major global rankings like THE Impact Rankings, WURI, and UI Green Metric, where it ranked 8th in the Philippines and 481st worldwide. CHED recognizes QS, THE, and WURI as key global ranking bodies under the Transnational Higher Education Act (RA 11448).
Creativity thrived at Catanduanes State University as CatSU and the Catanduanes Provincial Police Office (CatPPO) launched Women’s Month with a creative crafts workshop, March 5, 2025 at the CatSU Extension Training Hall. Over 80 policewomen and non-uniformed personnel teamed up in crochet, card making, corsage crafting, and certificate holder production. Dr. Rosana S. Abundo, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs, stood in for Officer-in-Charge Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., who is attending the 2025 SUC first quarter governing meeting in Marikina. She lauded the CatSU-CatPPO partnership, citing its personal and professional impact on participants. CatPPO Provincial Director PCol Edward D. Quijano, through his representative, pushed the event’s aim to spark creativity, resilience, and resourcefulness among CatPPO’s women personnel. He also linked this year’s theme, “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,” to a vision of inclusive progress. The College of Industrial Technology led the workshop, with Extension Coordinator Jade Jean P. Uchi and CIT Indigenous Creative Crafts Manager Jeiscelle Tomagan steering the activities. Tomagan pointed out that the certificate holder-making activity supports local abaca farmers by using abaca-based materials.
The latest Uswag Journal: Philippine Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (Vol. 2, Issue 2, July – December 2024) is now available on the Catanduanes State University website, featuring twice the number of research articles from its previous issue. Submitted by Research and Development Services (RDS) Director Dr. Jose Z. Tria, the journal presents 10 peer-reviewed studies across various fields, each rigorously reviewed, revised, and finalized by experts. Uswag, meaning “development,” serves as CatSU’s official research journal. Indexed in the Philippine E-Journals (PEJ) since 2024, it ensures wider global access. Visit this link https://catsu.edu.ph/uswag.php
Honest service.
Outstanding and globally-competitive educational standards.
People-centered and planet-friendly programs where social safety nets are in place and harmony with the ecosystem is considered sacred. And above all, we shall provide for
Equal opportunity and fair treatment to all, where meritocracy, qualifications and potentials are given premium, instead of patronage and kinship relations.
By: Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza
SUC President III
“The University is the fruit of all the labors of every Catandunganon. The university is us”.
By: Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza
CatSU SUC President III
