Catanduanes State University (CatSU) is the lone higher education institution serving the island province of Catanduanes, Philippines. Amidst its numerous challenges, including infrastructural limitations, increased student enrollment, and budget constraints, the university's president, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza has been a tireless advocate for the institution's growth and success.In a recent Facebook post, Dr. Azanza shared the plight of CatSU as it grapples with the consequences of limited infrastructure and funding. The institution is currently facing a budget deficit of almost 54 million pesos for free tuition fees due to low allocations from Congress. Despite the pressing need for additional classrooms, the university's 85-million-peso request for repairing classrooms damaged by Typhoon Rolly remains unapproved.Dr. Azanza acknowledges that some past university officials may have mismanaged infrastructure budgets and engaged in corrupt practices. However, he highlights that, under his leadership, the situation has changed dramatically. The university has completed 17 previously unfinished infrastructure projects, garnering praise from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) during a technical budget hearing.With CatSU having an impressive track record, topping board exams in Engineering, Nursing, and Education, Dr. Azanza's commitment to the university's students is evident in his efforts to ensure their safety and learning environment. He has been resourceful in making the most of available spaces, and has even gone so far as to install benches and jazz up certain areas to create suitable learning environments.Dr. Azanza's plea to Congress is to prioritize CatSU in the allocation of infrastructure budgets, acknowledging the university's unique position as the only higher education institution on the island. With many students unable to afford studying in the mainland due to high living expenses, CatSU remains their only option for pursuing higher education.The passionate and dedicated leadership of Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza has made significant strides in transforming CatSU, even amidst financial and infrastructural constraints. His unrelenting efforts to advocate for a fair and equitable allocation of budgets among State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) have not gone unnoticed. With the support of the DBM, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), and Congress, CatSU can continue to provide quality education to the residents of Catanduanes, ensuring that no student is left behind.Dr. Azanza’s Visionary Approach for Global ImpactOne of the pressing issues faced by CatSU and many other state universities is the deficit in funding for free higher education tuition. Currently, the university's deficit is at PHP 17 million, and if left unaddressed, it is estimated to rise to PHP 54 million. In response to this challenge, Dr. Azanza and other state university presidents are actively seeking ways to secure the necessary budget allocation.Dr. Azanza acknowledged that securing funds is a crucial part of his role as the university president. He revealed that as of now, CatSU has a total budget of close to PHP 1 billion for 2023, with a proposed budget of PHP 1.4 billion for 2024. This increase signifies a doubling of the university's budget during his term and highlights the potential for economic growth and job generation for the island's residents.Another significant development at CatSU is the focus on internationalization. Dr. Azanza envisions putting CatSU on the world map, enabling students and faculty to access scholarships abroad and ensuring that graduates have better job prospects globally. He emphasized that the university's internationalization efforts come at no additional cost to the institution, as he personally covers travel, hotel, and food expenses for international meetings. Dr. Azanza's dedication to transparency and his commitment to enhancing the campus experience, expanding opportunities, and elevating CatSU's global presence serve as a testament to his visionary leadership. The president's approach has the potential to make a lasting impact on the university and the entire Catanduanes community. #FJBT
To promote awareness and preparedness among students and faculty, the Incident and Calamity Operations (ICO) conducted an Earthquake Drill on March 16, 2023, headed by its Commander, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza and assisted by Prof. Emlyn M. Lanon, In-charge of Continuing Education, Training, Drills, and Calamity Awareness Campaign.The Earthquake Drill was held in relation to the Memoranda from the RDRRMC regarding the regional conduct of the 1st Quarter National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) 2023. Students and employees participated in the drill at exactly 2:00 PM.According to Prof. Lanon, this drill is important to develop and practice muscle memory of the duck-cover-and-hold among students and faculty, build resilient communities in the university, and assess the readiness of students and faculty in times of earthquakes. Engr. Benjamin Hannycel T. Nuyda, Planning and Development Services Director, gave an orientation during the conduct of the drill, while Dr. Ryan T. Timbal, Head of CatSU Security Services, provided necessary assistance and monitoring during the activity. #CVecilles
To ensure that the plans and programs under the Vision of HOPE are properly implemented, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza created the position of Executive Vice President, a first for the institution in 62 years. Because of her integrity and proven track record as a faculty member and an administrator, the first Executive Vice President came on top of the list and personal choice for Dr. Azanza. Upon approval by the Board, he recommended the designation of Dr. Lily P. Custodio – and was endorsed as the first ever Executive Vice President of Catanduanes State University by the Administrative Council during its meeting on January 9, 2023. Her designation was unanimously approved by the Board of Regents during its 212th (Regular)/4th Quarter Board of Regents Meeting on January 18, 2023. As EVP, Dr. Custodio holds the second highest position in terms of authority.Fondly called "Doc Lily" by many, she graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Commerce Major in Accounting from the Catanduanes State Colleges (CSC) in 1979, and subsequently became a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).Dr. Custodio completed her Master of Science in Management, Major in Business Administration in 1989, where she received the Outstanding Research award for her thesis titled "Comparative Cases of Growth Rates Among Small Scale Manufacturing Businesses in Region V: Implications to Financial Management."She was among the faculty members sent to study in Australia for her graduate studies during the time of then visionary CSC President, Dr. Rodolfo V. Azanza, the father of the present CatSU President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza.She finished her Master of Educational Administration (MEdAd) at Flinders University of South Australia and continued to pursue her Post Graduate studies in the same institution, earning her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Strategic Management in 1996 with a dissertation titled "Career Perceptions in the Philippines: Study of Academic Executives."Dr. Custodio began her CatSU journey in 1980 as an Instructor and climbed up the ranks, achieving her current academic position as Professor VI.She also served as the Dean of the College of Business and Accountancy from 1998 to 2009, and held several administrative designations, leading major divisions such as Academic Affairs (AA), Administrative & Financial Affairs (AFA), and Research, Extension and Production Affairs (REPA).She also chaired the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) and served as the Dean of the Graduate School.Prior to her appointment as the first ever CatSU Executive Vice President, Dr. Custodio was the Vice President for Academic Affairs. In this role, she worked hard with the President to create 11 new academic programs, including those that required accreditation.As EVP, Dr. Custodio's principal responsibilities include overseeing and administering the planning process of the University, providing leadership to all academic programs and Units, leading the assessment of the University's strategic plan, promoting linkage and modification of academic programs to meet the evolving missions of the University, aligning academic programs with the University's strategic plan, and meeting the needs of students and faculty.The EVP is also expected to provide leadership to departments and offices responsible for the following functions: diversity and equal opportunity, external academic affairs, faculty development, academic assessment, institutional research, international programs, undergraduate affairs, and others as assigned.Furthermore, she is expected to provide leadership and guidance to all College Deans to enhance effective operation, cost efficiency, and high-quality academic programs while working with all constituency groups to ensure that the University's academic programs have achieved or are approaching high national ranking or are well-placed with respect to the University's peer or aspirational benchmark group.Lastly, the EVP is responsible for ensuring effective communication with the Office of the President, monitoring the agenda for inclusion in different councils such as the Administrative Council, Academic Council, University Research Council and Extension Council, and Resource Generation and Utilization Council.With her exceptional knowledge, intellect, and leadership skills, Dr. Lily P. Custodio is undeniably the ideal one for the position. #CVecilles
The Shared Services Facility (SSF) or Foodlab Center, under the auspices of CatSU College of Industrial Technology (CIT), was filled with bakers and local pili processors participating in a Skills Training on Pili-based pastries held on Friday, March 10, 2023.The training is a collaborative project of CatSU CIT and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) under its One Town product (OTOP) program, aimed at developing food products utilizing pili nuts as one of the main ingredients to strengthen the Pili Industry Cluster of the province.“We are always excited about skills training like this being held here in CatSU and really glad to note that we are a part of the community members’ learning and growth in business,” said Ms. Jessa Tria, CatSU SSF Supervisor.DTI Provincial Director Ma. Belma Q. Escueta expressed her gratitude and thanks to CatSU President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, for the strong partnership and providing a venue within the CatSU premises for business learnings and undertakings.Dr. Azanza responded that the university is here to serve a purpose, not just for its students and clientele, but for the community as a whole.“The university is for everybody; we exist not just as a higher learning institution in developing students to become future professionals, but also as a university that offers its services, expertise, and resources to help every individual in building their dreams and creating value-laden lives."Pastry Chef Marlon Dy, an Albay-based Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprise engaged in the same line of business, served as the Guest Trainer for the day. Mr. Dy shared his Mayon Treats recipes and techniques and was also joined by Mr. Medel Pasion of RFM Corp. #CVecilles
As part of the current administration's efforts to provide the best quality of education to its students, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) President, attended the EduCanada Pathways to Partnerships: Higher Education Forum held on March 8, 2023, at the Makati Diamond Residences in Makati City.During the forum, Dr. Azanza and his wife, Prof. Jane Rose C. Azanza, met with Canadian Ambassador David Hartman and exchanged discussions about the higher education sector, various approaches towards internationalization, including plans and programs useful to education delivery and research, as well as potential opportunities for collaboration towards internationalization.The event was attended by representatives of Canadian colleges and representatives from state universities and colleges (SUCs) in the Philippines."As we aim to achieve our target sustainable development goals for the university, it is very important and useful to become a part of this forum as we will also be able to apply and mirror the partnership opportunities here in CatSU," Dr. Azanza said.Presentations during the forum included an overview of Canadian colleges, institutes, and polytechnics to establish international partnerships, delivering micro-credentials, and enriching applied research. Moreover, the forum highlighted the one-on-one meetings between Canadian and Philippine Higher Education institutions, including Catanduanes State University. #CVecilles
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, shared the exciting news on his Facebook account that CatSU will soon offer a Master of Arts in Nursing program in the island.According to Dr. Azanza, the CatSU College of Nursing passed the Technical Panel Evaluation that began in November 2022. Once the resolution is signed, it will be forwarded to the CHED en Banc for approval.“The university has been dreaming of offering this program for over 15 years, and now islanders will have the opportunity to pursue their graduate degree in Nursing without having to spend a lot of money to cross to the mainland,” Dr. Azanza shared.The SUC President III of CatSU attributed the success of achieving the MA Nursing permit to "Teamwork".He commended the team, composed of the Executive Vice President (EVP) Dr. Lily P. Custodio, then Vice President for Academic Affairs, Vice President Dr. Bernardino C. Abundo, then Asst. Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Dean Joel T. Olfindo, for their relentless efforts to make this happen.The president expressed his gratitude to CatSU Board of Regents Chairman and the Commission on Higher Education Commissioner, Dr. Aldrin A. Darilag, CHED Regional Director, Atty. Septon Dela Cruz, and CHED RO V Education Specialist, Dr. Pamela S. Viñas, a CatSU Nursing alumna, for their all-out support in securing the MAN permit.He also announced that CatSU has secured a budget of 15 million pesos to upgrade the university's Nursing Laboratory facilities. He hopes to bring back the glory days of CatSU and be recognized as one of the top nursing schools in the country in terms of passing rates and having graduates who top or are in the top 10 of the Nursing Board Examination.Dr. Azanza is optimistic that with the strong support and cooperation from everyone, the university's goals are achievable. He also believes that with the leadership of Dr. Gemma G. Acedo and Dr. Joseph G. Zafe, the Vice President, and the Asst. Vice President for Academic Affairs, respectively, the permits for Law and Medicine, which are currently underway, will also yield positive results. #CVecilles
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Region 5 - Bicol donated a second-hand 9-seater Mitsubishi Adventure to Catanduanes State University (CatSU) on January 5, 2023.NEDA Director and CatSU Board of Regent, Engr. Luis G. Banua presented the vehicle to CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza at the NEDA compound in Legazpi City. The donation was in response to CatSU's request for transportation support due to the limited number of vehicles on campus.Dr. Azanza said that the University needed the vehicle for various community engagements and linkage activities in coordination with the Local Government Unit and other national agencies. The additional vehicle will help CatSU in its goal of extending its services to the community.Dr. Azanza also announced that the vehicle would be shared by the Office of Extension Services, and the Office of Research Development Services (RDS).“I am happy that finally our office and the RDS office will now have a car to use in our extension services and research activities. This will make us work harder,” Dr. Adem Nalu V. Rubio, Extension Services Director said.Dr. Rubio, along with Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs Dr. Ramon Felipe Sarmiento and RDS Director Dr. Jose Tria, expressed their gratitude to NEDA Director Banua and Dr. Azanza. #FJBT
The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Catanduanes Province, led by Provincial Director Uldarico Razal Jr., and the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Capacity Development Team presented the CapDev Analysis to the Provincial Local Government Unit (PLGU) and Municipal Local Government Units (MLGUs) on January 31, 2023, at Rhaj Inn in Virac, Catanduanes.The presentation aimed to inform the PLGU on the areas they can assist the MLGUs with in capacity development and the interventions needed to address their CapDev needs.The PLGU, headed by Governor Joseph C. Cua and represented by Provincial Administrator Lemuel Surtida, attended the event along with the Municipal Mayors, Municipal Planning and Development Coordinators, Municipal Local Government Operations Officers, CatSU CapDev Analysis Team, and other stakeholders.According to Section 10 of EO No. 8 s. 2021 on the Mandanas-Garcia Supreme Court Ruling, LGUs are required to prepare DTPs as requirements for the implementation of full devolution. These DTPs need to be analyzed to determine common and unique capacity priorities and to communicate the analysis results to stakeholders.The CatSU CapDev Team is composed of SUC President III Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, Executive Vice President Dr. Lily P. Custodio, Assistant Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs Dr. Arthur I. Tabirara, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Bernardino Abundo Jr., and Associate Professor V and BS Economics Program Adviser Dr. Noel De Leon. Dr. Tabirara stated that CatSU is commended by the DILG Region and the Province for providing an area-wide perspective and supporting shared development outcomes. This is in response to the implementation of EO 138 – Full Devolution of Certain Functions of the Executive Branch to Local Governments. #FJBT
The Catanduanes State University (CatSU) officials, student leaders, and representatives from the Philippine National Police (PNP) - Virac Municipal Police Station conducted a consultative meeting today, February 1, to strengthen the Anti-Drug Campaign awareness in the University.The meeting, presided over by Dr. Maria Edna R. Inigo, the Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs (VP-AFA), also addressed other security concerns, and to find possible interventions to tighten the safety, security, peace, and order in the campus.The Philippine National Police (PNP), represented by PSSG Antonio B Aquino, MCAD PNCO/KASIMBAYAN Focal Person, and PCPT Francis T. Tabo, DCOP, Virac MPS, discussed the significant security issues and the administration's plan to create a safer and more peaceful community.The CatSU Student Body Organizations, led by Hon. Angelo Piolo M. Laynes, FCSC President and Student Regent, also shared their observations and suggested the importance of wearing proper uniform and school IDs for easy identification and for the security of the students as well. Prof. John Cyrus B. Francis, the OSADS Director, also provided his recommendations on necessary interventions. He also supported the suggestions of the student leaders.Moreover, Dr. Inigo guaranteed the university's commitment to ensure a safe and peaceful campus in all its programs and activities most especially among its students.The VP-AFA likewise emphasized the university's continuous coordination with government entities, law enforcement agencies, other non-government organizations through conduct of symposium, seminars, including intensified information dissemination campaigns regarding campus policies, to raise awareness among students about compliance to laws, rules, and regulation. The aim is to create a safe and secure environment on campus, where students can learn and grow. #GZafe
The Administrative and Financial Affairs (AFA), and the Academic Affairs (AA) division respectively welcomed the new year with Review of Accomplishments for 2022 and Strategic Action Planning for 2023.According to Dr. Iñigo, Vice President for AFA, their whole day meeting last January 5 at the Female Dormitory Lobby, aims to discuss the highlights of the accomplishments of their division, and its impacts in the operations of the whole University for 2022. It became also an avenue to review the strengths and weaknesses in order to come up with recommendations for the areas that need improvement.“After we identify the success and areas for improvement in our Division, we presented it to the unit heads in the Academic Affairs and REPA divisions, both in the Central Management and Panganiban Campus whom we invited in the afternoon session, so we can make our services more effective and efficient,” the VP-AFA shared. Meanwhile, the Academic Affairs Division led by Vice President Dr. Lily P. Custodio had a two-day meeting on January 9-10, in the Accreditation Room at the Main Building.The first day focused on the Review and Presentation of 2022 Accomplishments vs Targets, and the second day became the Preparation of Strategic Action Plan for 2023 and Presentation of Outputs. Dr. Custodio rallied her division to work on the weaknesses and sustain the strength, share their best practices, have an open communication, and work as a team. #FJBT
In its quest to develop the Filipino workforce including students with competence and to provide quality technical-educational and skills development through its directions, policies and programs, Provincial Training Center – Catanduanes under the auspices of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), partnered with Catanduanes State University in offering a free training for students. The training included a 15-hour Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) which is an essential requirement in applying for a student license. In the enrollment conducted on August 25, 2022, around 524 students were recorded as enrollees.Students joined to prepare the requirement of the Land Transportation Office for the issuance of Student’s Driver’s Permit. Part of the course was an orientation on Defensive Driving to increase awareness on traffic rules and regulations. In the culminating activity, students were issued with an initial certificate recognized by the LTO which is a requirement when applying for the issuance of Student Driver’s Permit. This 3-day course was held at the university auditorium from September 19-21, 2022, and the final Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) certificate were released on November 7, 2022 at the CatSU covered court. #CVecilles
Christmas at Catanduanes State University (CatSU) kicked off with the Tree of HOPE and lighting of lanterns ceremony on December 15, 2022 at the CatSU Front Grounds.The university community composed of students headed by Student Regent, Hon. Angelo Piolo Laynes, faculty members headed by Faculty Regent, Dr. Rosanna Abundo and CASUNEA President Prof. Danilo Murillo and heads of offices, came together for a short program. Dr. Maria Edna R. Inigo, VP for Administrative and Finance and Dr. Ramon Felipe Sarmiento, VP for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs shared inspirational messages to the crowd. Dr. Inigo also welcomed the special guests from the BJMP San Andres District and acknowledged their support for the Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) who handcrafted the lanterns and said that the observance is “a moment of prayer and thanksgiving for the generosity of those who made the University Center project come to life." She added in her message the story of the symbolic meaning of the Parol ng Pag-asa (Lanterns).Adding highlight on this year’s collection of Christmas Lights are the big lanterns handcrafted by the Computer engineering students of the College of Engineering and Architecture, and students from the College of Industrial Technology. The lanterns have a special code mechanism skillfully designed by the students. The moment that many students and faculty had been waiting for came as the countdown for the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas Tree of HOPE took place which was led by no less than the president himself, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza. In his message, Dr. Azanza described the ceremony as very symbolic because all would want to light the Tree of Hope and Parol ng Pag-asa for everybody to have brighter days ahead, for all fellow Catandunganons.“May we not forget that the very meaning of this Christmas celebration is our own salvation from the greatest man who ever walked on earth, no other than our beloved savior the Lord Jesus Christ; let’s offer this night to Him and our families”, he added. With loud applause and good cheer, the evening continued a few feet away on the green grounds where the community gathered for the 2nd annual tree lighting ceremony. #CVecilles
In its quest to push for deeper financial education and awareness within the student body as well as members of the university faculty and administration, the Bureau of the Treasury Regional Office V headed by its Director, Ms. Everette E. Villaraza, conducted a Financial Literacy Session at the Accreditation Room on October 7, 2022.The event was a product of collabo - ration between CatSU and the Bureau of Treasury RO V following the initial meetings of possible partnership. With Director Villaraza serving as the resource speaker, salient points of the FinLit sessions were done in separate segments, according to the types of participants.In attendance were teaching and non-teaching personnel as well as heads of the various offices of the university.Dr. Maria Edna R. Iñigo, Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs, expressed her gratitude for the kind gesture and productive proposal of the agency.“This Finlit sessions can definitely be of great help to our employees and students in attaining a clear vision of their financial goals”, she said. Finlit is essentially a part of the activities set in celebration of the 10th University Charter Anniversary. #CVecilles
In less than 24 hours after Severe Tropical Storm Nalgae (locally named Paeng) made its first landfall in Virac, Catanduanes in the early morning of Saturday, October 29, 2022, Catanduanes State University SUC President III, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza personally led the distribution of food packs to 250 CatSU students who were not able to go home in their respective towns due to the calamity. Dr. Azanza, who is also an incumbent Board Member of the Philippine Red Cross-Quezon City Chapter, as well as the Catanduanes Chapter, immediately called for the relief distribution, dubbed as ‘Damayan sa CatSU’ with the help of the Federated College Student Council (FCSC) President Hon. Angelo Piolo M. Laynes and other Student Body Organization Presidents and student volunteers who also extended their time for the relief efforts. The active student leaders of the University started preparing the food packs Saturday morning at the Student Center and the FCSC Office. Inside the food packs are a kilo of rice, noodles, coffee, eggs, and canned goods which were received by the stranded students.Dr. Azanza also distributed free smart load cards to 100 students in order to contact their loved ones at home via their smartphones. The smart load cards given to the students were donated by Congressman Eulogio “Leo” R. Rodriguez to help them with online assignments.With the shutting down of the power supply in the entire island, the CatSUans were also able to charge their gadgets and rechargeable lights as the main building opened its generator set for the students. They were also served porridge for snacks while charging their gadgets. Also present during the Damayan sa CatSU were Atty. Gregorio Sarmiento, Jr., Chief Administrative Officer for Administration, Mr. Rommel Torres, Chief Administrative Officer for Finance, Prof. Ian Aranel, former CBO Director/Dean of CBA, Ms. Lolit S. Sicio, Supply Officer, Ms. Josephine Rojas, Executive Assistant II, Rommel Reyes from Motorpool Services, Aileen Llandelar from the Public Relations and Media Services (PRMS), Jasper Adrian Sidlacan and Caroline Vecilles from the Corporate Communications Services (CCS). Disaster Preparedness Campaign As early as August 2021, Dr. Azanza already organized CatSU’s Disaster Response Team, with Disaster Preparedness and Climate Adaptation Team in partnership with the Provincial Local Government Unit and Municipal Local Government Units, and even with private organizations and companies to be ready in case of calamities or disaster. “It is not that we want another calamity to hit the island after the devastating Super Typhoon Rolly. But we know it is just a matter of time before another disaster might come along. Thus, might as well prepare for it,” Dr. Azanza said in his Facebook campaign last August 23, 2021.“We want to have ready sacks of rice, medicine, drinking water, canned goods, coffee, noodles, blankets, emergency lights, candles, even before the emergency happens.” Dr. Azanza’s campaign for CatSU’s Disaster Preparedness started rolling then. On September 16, 2021, donations started to rain in CatSU. The Fraternal Order of Eagles – Isla de Cobos Eagles Club donated three (3) sacks of rice and a box of canned goods. The alumni group led by CatSU Alumni Regent Atty. Ramil B.Tamayo also donated alcohol and a humidifier. He was joined by Hi-Density President Arturo B. Lumahod who assisted Atty. Ta[1]mayo in securing the donated items. The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) also extended their medical donations thru Mr. Anjo De Leon. Not long after this, the PCSO gave the University earlier this year its first-ever ambulance with the help of Governor Joseph C. Cua. Reaping what was sownA year after Dr. Azanza’s Disaster Preparedness campaign, CatSU students have now benefit - ted because we have food and goods are available. This will, at least, help them survive for a day or two until the stores are open again to the public. It can also be recalled that donations from stakeholders, partners, and generous people and companies were also shared last December with the CatSU community, especial - ly the needy students. Even CatSU partners, the Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association (TODA), also received such assistance. This shows that the project and campaign planted have now been sown. The Vision to Care and Prepare Dr. Azanza calls upon private organizations and companies such as the Red Cross, PCSO, Rotary Club, Catanduanes Chamber of Commerce, Catanduanes Medical Society, Philippine Nurses Association-Catanduanes Chapter, Church-based organizations, Contractors Association, CIML 291, TFOE-Philippine Eagles, TGP, fraternities and sororities civil society, people’s organization, private companies like ARDCI, Mercury Drug, Watsons, Delex and others to help in this noble cause. Alumni and retirees are also asked to support and take an active role in this initiative. “CatSU has 50 years of experience on how calamities have wrought havoc on the residents of Catanduanes. We do not want to be caught flat-footed the next time. We want to be pre - pared. We want to make sure CatSU is ready to open its gates to the communities when another calamity or disaster strikes. CatSU will be there for and with the communities if and when it happens.”“Para tabi in isa karahayan kan gabos. Magpreparar na tabi kita bago pa mangyari ang emergency situation. Ta dae kita dapat gapreparar nin relief operations o disaster response habang andiyan na sa ngadang-ngadang ang makusog na paros o ang mismong sakuna,” he added. #FJBT
CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza in his official travel to Manila met with Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero, the current Chair of Senate Committee on Higher Education to discuss academic concerns including university budget. Dr. Azanza also had the chance to meet 9 members of the legislature during the Committee hearings/meeting of the 19th Congress, including Sen. Mark Villar, Sen. Bong Go, Sen. Grace Poe, Sen. Robin Padilla, Sen. Joel Villanueva, and Sen. Bato Dela Rosa. He also met with Sen. Francis Tolentino and Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla whom the president requested additional classrooms and faculty research center from. Dr. Azanza expressed his gratitude to Cong. Leo Rodriguez for his support to CatSU and fellow Catandunganons, and for personally accompanying him to the offices of Senator Francis Tolentino and Senator Bong Revilla. In the quest for working on CatSU’s budget to abate the decline in the annual budget of CatSU, Dr. Azanza continues to work in lobbying for more budget allocation for the university. It can be recalled that due to low absorptive capacity (the inability to spend the money given by the National Government) and other related reasons, CatSU’s capital outlay budget and the proposed budget for 2022 was placed in reduction. Dr. Azanza worked to ensure that the succeeding annual budget will be approved for the benefit of the whole university, thus the Php595.168M approved under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) 2022, inclusive of the 35M Infra project coming from Senator Sherwin Gatchalian. For Year 2023, Dr. Azanza hopes to have a bigger budget for CatSU. Thus, his efforts to lobby for assistance from Congress and Senate. #CVecilles
In a recent official travel to Mainland Bicol, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Bicol University on the sharing of academic resources, including the use of BU’s hospital for the training of CatSU nursing and medicine students.The agreement was made between CatSU President Dr. Azanza and BU President Dr. Noli Mascariñas on September 26, 2022. “The ultimate goal is to realize the dream of Catandunganons to have a working relationship with BU given its proximity to the island and also because of the vast resources and opportunities that can be shared by both SUCs”, Dr. Azanza said.It is specifically noted in the memo that nursing program as well as the envisioned medicine and law programs shall be strengthened as the MOU includes the sharing of academic resources, faculty and student exchange, and even the sharing of tertiary hospital and law library facilities of BU with CatSU. The agreement also stated that incoming nursing, medicine and law students of CatSU will be given permission to cross-enroll at BU. Also covered are academic consultations, participation in seminars and academic meetings, extension activities, joint research collaboration, sharing of faculty and research/library resources, promotion and peer review of research outputs, co-sponsorship of national and international conferences and research publication opportunities, publication of articles in each other’s Journals, exchange of educational materials, research publications and instructional information, provision of expertise in areas of strength of both parties, and sharing of technologies generated through research, among others. #CVecilles
