Catanduanes State University (CatSU) is getting closer towards the establishment of its College of Law, as it progresses toward meeting the stringent requirements set by the Law Education Board (LEB).Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza expressed optimism about the university's progress in effectively addressing access to costly law books."Compliance with the law book requirements is no longer a problem as Rex Bookstore (rebranded as Rex Education) has donated books," he said after he secured this generous contribution by Rex Bookstore.Dr. Azanza also acknowledged the role played by CatSU Regent Atty. Santiago T. Gabionza Jr., who is also the legal counsel to Rex Publishing. Furthermore, President Azanza reassured that the moot court's completion is on track to meet the LEB's deadline, with an expected finish date before the end of October. "Nasa 70 percent completion naman po ang satuyang moot court sa third floor kan Main Building," said Dr. Azanza, indicating significant progress in the establishment of a moot court. This moot court, as another LEB requirement, is designed to replicate a real courtroom environment, providing law students with practical experience.He noted that the bidding process was followed diligently to ensure the quality and integrity of the construction materials used in the moot court's construction.President Azanza expressed hope that once CatSU passes the ocular inspection by the LEB and fulfills all requirements, the university will be able to offer the Juris Doctor degree by 2024. He emphasized the significance of this achievement, particularly for the people of Catanduanes."Base sa survey, nasa 200 po ang nagrespond positively sa satuyang feasibility study na requirement nin law board," the President highlighted, underscoring the feasibility and demand for the law program.Additionally, President Azanza revealed that the applications for the College of Law and the College of Medicine are top priorities in the university's plans. Under his leadership, CatSU has already introduced seven new courses in just over two years, including the Master of Arts in Nursing (MAN), Bachelor of Science in Architecture, BS Entertainment & Multimedia Computing with Majors in Game Development and Digital Animation, BS Electronics Communication Engineering, BS Library Science, and BA English Language. These new offerings have significantly boosted enrollment at CatSU, as noted by the President.In a remarkable surge, CatSU has witnessed a substantial increase in enrollment, climbing from 9,060 students in 2021 to an impressive 14,150 this year, marking a substantial growth of 56.09 percent."It is also a help for the people of Catanduanes because students need not go to mainland universities to study, highlighting that CatSU really serves the people," he said, highlighting this achievement. He expressed his concern for students and parents who may face financial challenges when seeking education elsewhere, emphasizing that CatSU has responded to this need by introducing industry-related new courses."Ibig sabihon mas dakula ang naseserbisyuhan nin CatSU. Kung pigpili ta sana, sain daw mapunta ang mga estudyante? Dakulang gastos sa mga magurang," President Azanza empathized, underscoring the importance of making quality education accessible to local students.President Azanza also outlined CatSU's mission to provide opportunities for island residents, both in terms of education and employment. "With our project na i-expand ang enrolment sa paagi nin pag-open nin bagong kurso, natawan nin opportunities ang mga taga-isla lalao sa employment. Iyan po talaga ang saro sa sakuyang programa na gibuhon ang CatSU na maging number one employment organization digdi sa isla," he explained. Dr. Azanza has secured approval for 56 new instructor positions from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and is awaiting approval for another 25 non-teaching positions, including five Administrative Officer V items at Salary Grade 18. #ATugay
In recent years, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) has been making remarkable strides in the field of sports. The addition of the ๐ข๐น๐๐บ๐ฝ๐ถ๐ฐ-๐๐ถ๐๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐๐๐ถ๐บ๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฝ๐ผ๐ผ๐น, an ๐ผ๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ป ๐น๐ฎ๐๐ป ๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ป๐ถ๐ ๐ฐ๐ผ๐๐ฟ๐, and an ๐๐ฝ๐ด๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐ด๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ๐๐๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ within the main campus marks a significant turning point for athletics at CatSU. The construction of the university's sports complex long-course swimming pool began in 2021. After a year of construction, CatSU now boasts the 10-lane Olympic-sized pool, complete with separate quarters for male and female athletes featuring comfortable changing rooms equipped with benches, shower rooms, and toilets. These amenities ensure that student-athletes have a convenient and enjoyable experience during sports activities.Moreover, todayโs sports complex has three grandstands with a 329-seating capacity each and features two additional rooms downstairs. These rooms will serve dual purposes, accommodating physical education classes and gym sessions as well as providing space for various sports activities. The grandstand is a versatile space that complements the sporting facilities, fostering a well-rounded athletic environment for students.๐ญ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ ๐ฝ๐๐๐๐๐During a swimming practice session for the National SCUAA delegates, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza expressed how fortunate CatSU athletes are to have access to these top-notch facilities. Dr. Azanza emphasized the crucial role of quality facilities in fostering a strong team. He acknowledged that for years, the needs of the athletes had not been adequately addressed, especially in terms of training facilities. However, with the establishment and improvement of the university's sports complex, CatSU is poised for greatness.The transformation of a once-barren hectare of land into a flourishing sports complex is a testament to CatSU's commitment to providing a world-class education. These infrastructural developments contribute to students' holistic growth and solidify CatSU's reputation as a leading educational institution. #AClemente
๐ถโ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐กโ๐ ๐ด๐ผ ๐ผ๐๐๐๐๐กCatanduanes State University (CatSU) President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza inked an MOU on September 12 to form a partnership with Bicol University and National University, solidifying their commitment to the "eParticipation 2.1: Harnessing Natural Language Processing (NLP) for Community Participation" project, which has secured funding and approval from CHED.This partnership, scheduled to last until September 2024, represents a major milestone for the universities as they unite to leverage the capabilities of Artificial Intelligence-Natural Language Processing (AI-NLP) technologies.One of the cornerstones of this partnership is the inclusion of CatSU in the AI-NLP training and capacity-building initiative, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of higher education institutions in the Philippines. Dr. Azanza expressed his excitement for the collaboration, highlighting its potential to transform community engagement and problem-solving using advanced technology. #ATugay
Consultants from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Philippines met with Catanduanes State University (CatSU) President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza to discuss project updates and opportunities for strengthening their collaboration, particularly in renewable energy solutions, September 13.IOM's initiatives in Catanduanes encompass a wide range of critical areas, including comprehensive skills training programs, campaigns promoting safe migration practices, and the construction of robust and typhoon-resilient safe houses strategically located across the province. These projects are aimed at uplifting local communities and enhancing their resilience to environmental challenges.As a testament to their commitment to these projects, IOM plans to conduct extensive site visits to witness the direct impact of their initiatives and extend their courtesies to the recipient's offices, including the Catanduanes State University. During the meeting, Dr. Azanza provided an overview of the university's people-centric projects. These initiatives include EduKain, an educational empowerment program, and robust Typhoon response protocols designed to prioritize community safety. Dr. Azanza also emphasized the innovative Solar Farm initiative, underscoring CatSU's dedication to sustainable energy solutions and environmental stewardship. Following the productive meeting, several IOM representatives, including their expert in Solar Grids and related technologies, visited the Solar Microfarm in the university campus. #ATugay
๐ป๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐ฝ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐ฏ๐๐๐In a recent General Orientation event organized by the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Office of the Registration Services, President Azanza emphasized his rallying cry, "๐ท๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐ท๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ด๐๐๐๐๐๐๐," as he encouraged students to unite and actively engage with their community and province, September 11 at the university gymnasium.He stressed the significance of CatSU's participation in the Commission on Higher Education's (CHED) free education program, urging the 4, 201 first-year students to proudly carry the title "๐๐ฌ๐ค๐จ๐ฅ๐๐ซ" and represent the university with honor."๐ท๐๐๐๐ก ๐๐ ๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐-๐๐๐๐๐ค๐๐ ๐๐ฆ๐ ๐๐ ๐๐ข๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ฆ-๐๐๐๐ค๐๐๐ ๐ ๐ ๐ ๐๐ก๐ข๐ฆ๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐," ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ก ๐ด๐ง๐๐๐ง๐ ๐๐๐โ๐๐ ๐๐ง๐๐ ๐กโ๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ก๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐ฃ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐ก๐ ๐กโ๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ข๐๐๐ก๐ฆ.Meanwhile, Ms. Marilyn G. Tejada, University Registrar III, expressed her enthusiasm for the orientation's success, highlighting the importance of students being well-informed about key members of the university's divisions and departments, including Central Management, Admin and Finance, Academic Affairs, Research, Extension and Production, and Panganiban Campus."๐ผ๐๐๐๐๐ก๐๐๐ก๐ ๐๐ ๐๐ ๐ ๐๐ก๐ข๐ฆ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐ก๐ข๐๐ฆ๐๐๐ก๐ ๐๐ฆ ๐ค๐๐๐-๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐, ๐๐ ๐๐๐ฆ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ก ๐๐๐๐๐ก ๐๐๐ฆ ๐๐๐๐ ๐ ๐๐๐ โ๐๐ค ๐ก๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ข๐๐๐๐๐ก๐ ๐ค๐๐กโ ๐กโ๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ค๐๐กโ๐๐ ๐ถ๐๐ก๐๐," Ms. Tejada stressed. This year's General Orientation aimed to empower and inform the student body about the university's structure, resources, and commitment to community service. #ATugay
The Catanduanes State University (CatSU), in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), organized a livelihood workshop to more than hundred Catandunganon families on Monday, September 11.Gracing the event, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza pledged support, through its Technical Assistance Program for Local Government Units (TAP-LGU), in facilitating the participants to qualify for and avail the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program. โTutulungan sila ng CATSU na ihanda ang business proposal upang makakuha ng pampuhunan sa DOLE sa halagang P500K hanggang P1.5M depende sa kanilang proposal,โ the president stated. DOLE explained that the amount of livelihood grant to be availed will depend on the number of members of the registered association and the business' budgetary requirement. #ATugay
In a two-day event titled "Bridging RD and E Programs of BIOTECH-UPLB to State Universities and Colleges: Introduction to Biotechnology Research on Industry, Energy, and Environment," academia met industry head-on at CatSU's Auditorium on September 7-8, 2023.The event drew attendees from the College of Science Faculty, Researchers, Staff, and Students.Dr. Francisco B. Elegado, the training coordinator, and Research Professor from UPLB, delivered a lecture emphasizing the importance of industrial biotechnology in converting agricultural materials to high-value products.He also discussed the applications of Nano biotechnology for the rapid detection of environmental contaminants.Dr. Ronilo P. Violanta presented BIOTECH innovations for agriculture, food, and feed industries, while Dr. Silvino D. Merca, a seed pathologist, addressed Human Factors in the Environment and Socio-Economic Changes.University Researcher Dr. Kristine Rose M. Ramos shared strategies for screening and characterizing microbes for heavy metal bioremediation, and Dr. Richard D. Tambalo explored the microbiological degradation of plastics and bioplastics.University Researcher Johnry S. Maloles provided technical insights into the screening of enzyme-producing microbes, while University Researcher Irene G. Pajares discussed the latest methods for isolating and screening yeasts with the potential for bioethanol and biodiesel production. Day two featured pre-lab lectures and hands-on laboratory activities, applying the concepts learned during the symposium, enriching participants' understanding and practical skills." #ATugay
The construction of Catanduanes Peopleโs Center inside the campus of the Catanduanes State University, which will serve as one-stop-shop for satellite offices of national agencies, is set to start this week. CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, represented by Executive Vice President Dr. Bernardino C. Abundo Jr., along with Congressman Eulogio โLeoโ Rodriguez, Department of Public Works and Highway (DPWH) Assistant District Engineer Max Eleda and other government officials, witnessed the groundbreaking ceremony for the P47 million project on Friday, August 11.โI remember the numerous times Cong. Leo Rodriguez and I met with Senator Francis Tolentino in the halls of Senate to seek budget for the Peopleโs Center that shall rise inside CATSU to serve as a one-stop-shop for processing important documents needed to be able to study, work, travel, and for other purposes,โ the president recounted on how it was started. โSurely, this is going to help many Catandunganons and I wish to congratulate Cong. Leo for having turned this into reality during his term of office,โ he added.The said one-stop-shop facility in the island-province will help Catandunganons to efficiently secure pertinent documents from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for clearances, Philippine Regulation Commission (PRC) for identification cards and other certifications, and passports to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to name a few.It can be remembered that in 2022, CatSU offered at least 1,000 square meters of its lot under a usufruct agreement with the congressional office in order to house the facility. Joining also the event were Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs Engr. Benjamin Hannycel Nuyda, Philippine Information Agency - Catanduanes chief Edna Bagadiong, Radyo Pilipinas Station Manager Arlene O. Bagadiong, CatSU Information Officer Anjo G. Tugay, and other officials. #AGC
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) made headlines as a trailblazer in green, inclusive, and sustainable development, with the groundbreaking of the first Knowledge, Innovation, Science and Technology (KIST) park in the Bicol region.The initiative was driven by CatSU President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, who actively advocated for the project's approval from the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), working closely with Governor Joseph "Boboy" C. Cua and the then Director General Charito "Ching" B. Plaza.PEZA Director General Tereso "Teo" O. Panga played a crucial role in providing essential information at the national level, ensuring the success of the endeavor with the full support of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos.On May 25, 2023, the groundbreaking ceremony for the KIST Park and agro-industrial processing zone took place, marking a significant milestone in CatSU's history. This is considered major milestone at CatSU, as these KIST Park and agro-industrial processing zone exemplify model economic zones that prioritize environmentally conscious and sustainable practices.The projects will utilize idle lands at CatSU, mobilizing cooperation among farmers, non-government organizations, business chambers, scientists, researchers, and key players in the information technology and agro-sector supply chains.The conversion of idle lands of CatSU into a KIST Park and Agro-Industrial Economic Zone will potentially change the future of the whole province of Catanduanes and benefit its 263,000 residents. The projects are projected to bring in a total of P1.55 billion in investments, promising a significant boost to the local economy.
Through the joint efforts between the Catanduanes State University (CatSU), University of the Philippines Los Baรฑos (UPLB) and other stakeholders, various projects involving rice component, livestock/dairy, and AgroForestry were presented during the launching of the Panganiban Rural and Agricultural Development Project on June 28, 2023. Following the launching, Dr. Renato Vega from the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and a UP Los Baรฑos professor, gave a lecture and distributed a sample of 20 rice varieties to the rice farmer-participants. Dr. Liborio S. Cabanilla, executive director of the UPLB College of Economics and Management Alumni Foundation, Inc. extended his gratitude to CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza for accepting the invitation to implement the project at Panganiban Campus. โAs the premier Agricultural Educational Institution in the community, CatSU is seen as a vital partner in achieving the project's objectives,โ he expressed.Among the other stakeholder partners was the Panganiban Local Government Unit (LGU), and the partnership aims to drive sustainable rural and agricultural development in the island-province.The event featured presentations outlining the project components and delineating the specific responsibilities of each partner. Following a short program, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding was held between the community stakeholders involved, symbolizing their strong commitment to the pursuit of empowering the local communities and paving the way for a vibrant agricultural sector in Panganiban.
Through the mandate of President Ferdinand โBongbongโ Marcos Jr., the Catanduanes State University started the distribution of the one-time 25-kilogram rice subsidy to the universityโs 959 qualified employees on July 27โ28, 2023.Under Administrative Order No. 2, signed by President Marcos last December 2022, the employees who are eligible to receive the rice aid are those who rendered government service as of November 30, 2022.As cited in the order, the initiative was meant to mitigate the effects of socio-economic challenges and boost domestic production of the Filipino farmersโ homegrown grains.Around 479 bags of rice from the National Food Authority (NFA) were delivered to the university. The 959 CatSU employees were among the 1,892,648 government workers, including Job Order (JO) and Contract of Service (COS) personnel, who benefited from the subsidy program.
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza led the turnover of 150 packs of assorted vegetable seeds to the Provincial Local Government of Catanduanes on Tuesday, July 25, 2023.The said seeds, comprised of upo, ampalaya, cucumber, and pole sitaw, were donated to CatSU by the University of the Philippines Los Baรฑos' Institute of Plant Breeding through Ms. Virma Rea G. Lee, University Researcher II and Head of the Extension and Business Development Division.This green initiative aligns with the President's vision of promoting sustainable agriculture not only within the campus but throughout the province. It can be remembered that one of his advocacy campaigns is the One Million Trees Project as the adviser of the Catanduanes Clean and Green Movement. #AGC Photos Credit to PLGU Catanduanes
Inscribed with the slogan โHOPE resides in the Happy Islandโ, the Catanduanes State University unveils the donated air-conditioned bus from Bicol Isarog Transport System Inc. during the blessing and turnover ceremony today, July 22.Witnessing the ceremonial turnover, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, together with Mr. Bonifacio Brian Cu, extended his gratitude to Bicol Isarog."Dakulang tabang ini para sa mga estudyante lalo so mga ga-join sa contest," the president said.When Dr. Azanza asked the student-attendees in the ceremony if they were happy about the donated bus, the students loudly cheered, โYes!โ.Dr. Gemma G. Acedo, Vice President for Academic Affairs, implored the students to take care of the said donation."After so long, magkakaigwa na naman kita ning bus, kaya alagaan ta, pahalagahan ta," the vice president stated.Meanwhile, Mr. Cu was glad to help and grateful for the universityโs contribution to their company, especially in manpower since they have employees who are products of CatSU.It can be recalled that Dr. Azanza requested an air-conditioned bus unit from Mr. Brian Cu of Bicol Isarog on April 20 this year during his visit, along with Engr. Hechanova at the Office of the President. He also expressed his profound gratitude to Gov. Joseph โBoboyโ Cua for all the help extended in securing the requested unit.The blessing was presided over by Rev. Father Eric John T. Rojas,and among the present were Dr. Kristian Q. Aldea, OIC Vice President for Research, Extension and Production Affairs (REPA), Mr. Robert Cabilao,and Engr. Romel Hechanova, HR consultants from Bicol Isarog, and the College of Industrial Technology (CIT) Dean, Dr. Edwin T. Romero, represented by Prof. Jonathan B. Capsa.
Serving as an accessible and strategic venue, Catanduanes State University (CatSU), through its auditorium, accommodated for free over 2,000 Catandunganons who availed the three-day mobile services of the Professional Regulation Commission Region V (PRC V), sponsored by the Office of Congressman Eulogio โLeoโ Rodriguez.Extending his gratitude to Congressman Rodriguez, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza expressed that the outreach program of PRC, through the initiative of the lawmaker, benefitted the Catandunganons, saving them both time and travel expenses. โFirst of all, we would like to thank Cong. Leo Rodriguez for this initiative of providing accessible service to our fellow Catandunganons. CATSU is always willing to support projects such as this that directly benefits our beloved kababayans,โ the president shared.From July 18โ20, at least 2,566 transactions were processed and finished through the PRCโs mobile services.Among these services offered, the highest number of recorded transactions within three days of the said activity, is the authentication of certificates, with a total of 1,014.Followed by certification with a total of 911 recorded transactions, while 247 newly registered Catandunganon professionals applied for the initial registration.Meanwhile, a total of 204 transactions were recorded in the renewal of professional identification cards; 148 aspiring professionals filed their applications; and 42 applied for changes of entries and status.Before the start of the application, the applicants were advised by the PRC V โto register online at https://prc.gov.ph to secure an appointment before proceeding to the mobile service venueโ. Dr. Azanza reaffirmed the universityโs commitment to serving the Catandunganons particularly those residing in remote areas, emphasizing that as a public institution, CatSU is always open and ready to cater to their needs. #AGC
The Catanduanes State University (CatSU) EIS team, under the leadership of the office of the Assistant Vice-President for Administrative and Financial Affairs (AVP-AFA), recently completed the second level of Public Scoping for their proposed projects, including the CatSU economic zones.This crucial step aims to secure an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) through the formulation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).During an online consultation held via Zoom on June 20, 2023, the EIS team presented the proposed projects to Engr. Maria Socorro A. Abu, the Regional Director of the Environmental Management Bureau. This platform provided an opportunity to address any potential issues or concerns that different sectors and offices may have regarding the plans and programs outlined in the EIS. Through this process, immediate solutions can be sought in relation to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process.The Public Scoping not only facilitates the collection of valuable feedback but also promotes public participation. A constructive open forum was conducted, enabling stakeholders to raise their concerns and gain a deeper understanding of CatSUโs strategic direction as the leading educational institution in the province. Distinguished participants, such as Hon. Samuel V. Laynes, the Virac Municipal Mayor; Hon. Arlyn C. Arcilla, the Virac Municipal Vice-Mayor; Ms. Jimma V. Tadoy, the Virac Municipal Agriculturist; and Engr. Angelo V. Marquez from the National Irrigation Administration-Catanduanes, among others, actively took part in the Public Scoping process. #RJI
June 18, 2023 marks a significant milestone for Catanduanes State University (CatSU) as it celebrates its 62nd anniversary. In an effort to ensure historical accuracy, the university has readjusted its founding year to reflect the true establishment date.Back on June 18, 1961, Republic Act 3398, entitled "An Act Providing for the Establishment of a National Agricultural and Trade School in the Municipality of Virac, Province of Catanduanes, and Authorizing the Appropriation of Funds Therefor," was promulgated. With its enactment, the Virac National Agricultural and Trade School (VNATS) came into existence.Ten years later, on June 19, 1971, the VNATS was transformed into the Catanduanes State Colleges (CSC) through Republic Act 6341. This transition marked an important step in the institution's growth and development.Further progress was made on October 19, 2012, with the enactment of Republic Act No. 10229, officially converting the Catanduanes State Colleges into Catanduanes State University (CatSU). This upgrade reflected the university's expanding academic programs and its commitment to providing quality higher education to the community.The university logo has been rectified to accurately represent the founding year of 1961. This symbolic change serves as a reminder of CatSU's rich history and its continuous evolution as a center of learning and innovation.Throughout its 62 years of existence, Catanduanes State University has remained dedicated to academic excellence, research, and community engagement. The university has played a vital role in shaping the educational landscape of the province and producing graduates who contribute to the development of Catanduanes and beyond. Unveiling the Illustrious History of VNATS, the Mother Institution of CatSU In commemoration of its 62nd founding anniversary, let us delve into the rich history of VNATS (National Agricultural and Trade School), the mother institution of Catanduanes State University (CatSU).Dr. Ramon Felipe A. Sarmiento, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs, takes us on a journey through time, highlighting the significant milestones that shaped VNATS into the institution it is today.The 1950s marked a pivotal era for the Philippines' pursuit of nation-building through rural development. It was during this time that numerous agriculture and trade schools emerged at the secondary level. In line with this nationwide movement, Republic Act 3398, titled "An Act Providing for the Establishment of a National Agricultural and Trade School in the Municipality of Virac, Province of Catanduanes, and Authorizing the Appropriation of Funds Therefor," was promulgated on June 18, 1961.With an initial appropriation of PhP200,000, VNATS was born on the Calatagan campus. Its inaugural main building occupied the very spot where the current College of Education stands proudly today. Mr. Maximo S. Binos assumed the role of the first Principal, leading VNATS on its path to excellence. In 1967, the school celebrated a significant milestone by producing its first batch of 31 graduates. The curriculum not only emphasized traditional secondary courses but also immersed students in the science and practice of agriculture, providing them with hands-on skills and knowledge.Campus life at VNATS possessed its own unique charm and characteristics, fostering a nurturing environment for its students:VNATSians were well-versed in parliamentary principles and rules, exhibiting their expertise by winning contests at the regional level.Students residing beyond a 10-kilometer radius were accommodated in dormitories constructed by their parents.Enrollees hailed from all corners of the province, walking to school and bringing packed lunches wrapped in banana leaves.VNATS students had the opportunity to earn money by engaging in various agricultural ventures facilitated by the school.Special working days were implemented, where teachers, administrators, and students labored together in the fields, fostering a sense of unity and community.Regular gatherings or "pabayle" were held on campus, offering young teachers a respite from rural life and giving students a chance to socialize and establish connections for the future.VNATSians encountered occasional teasing by being referred to as "taga pulang-lupa" (people from the red soil), but they proudly shrugged it off, knowing they were receiving a top-notch education and were well-versed in parliamentary procedures.The final batch of VNATS students received their diplomas in March 1972, marking the culmination of an era. In total, VNATS produced six batches, comprising 232 graduates. Shortly after the last graduation, Catanduanes State Colleges opened its doors for enrollment in graduate courses during the summer of 1972.Bikol historian Dr. Danny Gerona notes the possibility of a precursor school, reminiscent of the "farm schools" established by the Americans in the pre-war era. This intriguing aspect invites further research and exploration, according to Dr. Sarmiento.As we celebrate VNATS' 62nd founding anniversary, let us honor the institution's legacy, which has played a vital role in the educational landscape of Catanduanes. The journey of VNATS serves as a testament to the power of education, rural development, and the unwavering spirit of its students and educators. #FJBT
