Catanduanes State University (CatSU) broke new ground as it launched its first out-of-province extension activity titled “Resilient Infrastructure and Communication Systems” at Craigville Resort, Goa, Camarines Sur, held April 9 and 11, 2025. Engineers, disaster risk officers, and tech experts delivered high-impact technical sessions, arming participants with life-saving knowledge in emergency communications and infrastructure resilience. Engr. Morris U. Aquino kicked off the two-day training with an intensive session on VHF radio systems, followed by Engr. Lino Nero Sorra’s practical rundown on basic radio operations. Engineers Ronnie Santelices and Lyndon Buenconsejo unpacked the integration of advanced technologies into traditional radio systems, pushing the boundaries of conventional communication tools. College of Engineering and Architecture Dean Engr. Dexter M. Toyado, PhD, stunned participants by demonstrating how to send emails without internet access, enabling cross-border communication in disconnected zones. Toyado also led a hands-on workshop on building functional antennas using affordable, easily sourced materials — a skill critical in post-disaster scenarios. Adding to the technological arsenal, Mark Anthony M. Del Rosario of the Philippine Science High School Bicol campus introduced participants to Slow-Scan Television (SSTV), a method to transmit images over radio for emergency use. He also guided attendees in capturing NOAA satellite imagery using improvised gear. The training drew barangay and municipal disaster risk reduction and management officers (BDRRMO/MDRRMO) from across Goa, equipping them with actionable, low-tech solutions for real-world emergencies.
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) advanced its flagship initiative, ‘Padagos na Patanos,’ during the Information and Service Caravan organized by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Catanduanes Information Center and the Catanduanes Government Communicators Network (CGCN), on June 29 at Barangay Timbaan, San Andres.PIA Information Center Manager Edna A. Bagadiong explained the caravan’s purpose, describing it as “an initiative to promote a one-stop shop for various social services needed by the constituents of the barangay.”A total of 31 agencies participated in the caravan, which commenced with a tree-planting activity. In addition to providing free services, agency representatives informed the barangay's residents about their programs, projects, and services.Key features of the caravan included a feeding activity for school children, senior citizens, and lactating mothers at the Timbaan Elementary School Covered Court. This initiative was supported by the Provincial Nutrition Office, Philippine Statistics Authority, Provincial Cooperative and Development Authority Office, and Catanduanes State University, which introduced its EduKain Program.CatSU offered medical and dental services, conducting free medical check-ups for 35 individuals and dental check-ups and fluoride applications for 46 primary grade pupils.The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) provided free massages, haircuts, pedicures, and manicures. The Department of Agriculture and the Provincial Agricultural and Services Office distributed vegetable seeds and farm tools to selected farmers' organizations in the barangay.Prominent agency heads actively participated in the event, including Congressman Eulogio Rodriguez, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, PIA Manager Edna A. Bagadiong, Radyo Pilipinas Catanduanes Manager Arlene O. Bagadiong, DOST Provincial Director Engr. Gram Molina, TESDA Provincial Director Archangel Rodriguez, DTI Provincial Director Maria Belma Escueta, PhilHealth Chief Maria Zaila B. Romero, PAGASA Chief Juan Pantino Jr., and representatives from other agencies.The event also featured a symbolic boodle fight, which PMAJ Rosalinda M. Gaston highlighted as a celebration of solidarity among the participating agencies. Building on the success of this event, organizers plan to cluster barangays for future caravans to serve more constituents effectively.
𝑭𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒄𝒉 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒓𝒌𝒆𝒕Catanduanes State University (CatSU) has taken a significant step towards community empowerment and sustainable livelihoods with an innovative training session on processing "Turay" fish into bottled sardines and ice cream, held at the College of Industrial Technology’s SS FoodLab on July 12." 𝑷𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒉𝒂𝒃𝒂𝒏𝒈 𝒃𝒖𝒉𝒂𝒚 𝒏𝒂 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒈𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒐 𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒂 𝒔𝒂 𝒑𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒚𝒂," said SUC President III Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, emphasizing the long-term benefits for the families of the 22 trainees, who are residents from Barangays Cabungahan and Manambrag, San Andres. This session marks the second run of the training, following the first all-women training for 60 participants held in Manambrag a few months ago.Under President Azanza's leadership, CatSU has consistently engaged in community outreach through its Padagos na Patanos Extension Service. The university's scientist-professors and extension service workers have diligently worked on initiatives to alleviate poverty and enhance industry standards in the province.The training, attended by Extension Service Director Dr. Adem Nalu V. Rubio and CIT Dean Dr. Edwin T. Romero, introduced participants to the production processes of Turay Sardines and Turay Ice Cream, focusing on creating marketable products from the province's abundant natural resources. They learned to make three flavors of Turay Ice Cream: sorbetes, plain, chili-infused.CatSU ensured full participation by providing transportation for the participants to the training venue. Prof. Tugay explained that in two days, a maximum of 80 bottles of Turay Sardines could be produced, with a break-even price of Php 139.12 per piece.President Azanza assured the marketability of the trainees' products, which will be showcased at the CatSU Pasalubong Center and ARDCI Mart. This initiative aims to provide the fisherfolk community with additional sources of income and sustainable livelihoods, creating new market opportunities and promising long-term progress for the families involved.
𝑻𝑨𝑷-𝑳𝑮𝑼 𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒔Recognizing the profound impact of early childhood education, the Catanduanes State University - College of Education (CatSU-CoEd) Extension Services is eyeing to replicate its Pundasyon 2.0 (Pundasyon+Educasyon): Instructional Enhancement Training for Child Development Teachers (CDTs) across the province after its successful implementation in Virac.“Panduwang taon na kang programa na ini, so with that masasabi talagang na-sustain natin. Our target [after this] is to have a replication of the Pundasyon activity in other municipalities in the province since this activity is also in line with the TAP-LGU initiatives of the president,” newly installed Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs (VPREPA) and CoEd faculty, Dr. Rosana S. Abundo, expressed during her opening remarks for the second staging of Pundasyon activity today, September 20.“We are working na magkaigwa kita ning MOA between CatSU and DSWD. ‘Yon yong mga future plans and we just started it, madami pa tayong pupuntahan sa mga maabot na panahon [and] that is our dream, para man gabos na CDTs [sa probinsya] ay mataw’an man ning Extension para maka-assist sa kung ano man ang kaipuhan niyo,” she added, encouraging the participants to volunteer as facilitators once the activity is rolled out to other municipalities.Joining the VPREPA, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza lauded the efforts of the 30 participating CDTs in providing support and education to the crucial formative years of a child’s life, emphasizing the foundational role they play in shaping the potential of young learners,“[Grabe] ang effort niyo every day and yet most of them, kadalasan dae natatawan ning pansin. Kung hihilingon tabi, sisay daw an mga bayani kang satuyang barangay? Kamo baga. Kasi kamo mismo ang gatao ning serbisyo, ning suporta para sa pangangaipo kang sektor na dae naataman ning husto sa mga barabarangay,” he said, underscoring the university’s commitment to providing support to the often-overlooked sectors through the Padagos na Patanos Movement.“Kaya kami man sa CatSU, sa paagi kang Pundasyon na programa kan COED, mamati niyo man na ang CatSU kaibahan niyo tabi, nakasuporta sainyo,” the president ensured. The Pundasyon activity is a series of seminar-workshops aimed at equipping the CDTs with the latest pedagogical skills and knowledge used in teaching pre-kinder pupils. The third part of the series will be conducted on September 27 and will feature a Demonstration Teaching among the participants to showcase their acquired knowledge and skills throughout the series. #AClemente
𝐴 𝑃𝑟𝑜𝑢𝑑 𝑆𝐴𝑅𝐼𝑁𝐺𝐺𝐴𝑌𝐴 𝐴𝑤𝑎𝑟𝑑𝑒𝑒A recognized SARINGGAYA awardee and a premier green research institution in the province, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) demonstrates its commitment to green initiatives and environmental stewardship as it took center stage at the International Coastal Cleanup 2023, September 16. Under the leadership of CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, the university rallied hundreds of volunteers, including faculty, non-teaching personnel, and students, for this crucial environmental initiative along the shores of Antipolo Del Sur and Antipolo Del Norte.In the opening program at the Provincial Capitol Grounds, Dr. Azanza delivered a message that pinned on the spirit of unity and environmental responsibility."Maogma na kita nagkakasararo, para sa maayos asin patanos na kapaributan sa isla," he said, emphasizing unity in taking care of the environment."Mabalik man sana ang problema na satong yatao sa kapaributan," he continued, highlighting the potential consequences of our actions, as the waste we discard may return as problems."Ipagrokyaw ang pangangaipo. Magkakasararo pirmi para sa karahayan kan satuyang gabos," he passionately expressed, underlining his Padagos na Patanos Movement, which expands the university's extension arm in the community. CatSU's participation in the cleanup event highlighted its commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. The university has long been at the forefront of green research and education, consistently emphasizing the importance of preserving Catanduanes' natural beauty.The involvement of CatSU faculty, staff, and students demonstrated the deep-rooted dedication to these ideals, as they worked tirelessly alongside other volunteers to clear beaches and coastal areas of all kinds of wastes. #ATugay
One of the ‘best selling’ authors from the University of the Philippines - Los Baños, Prof. Jerry R. Yapo, launched a landmark book about his personal life experiences with featured artwork in every narrative.Yapo on Monday, August 14, unveiled his 12-essay book ‘Artfully Speaking and Other Essays’ along with the students, faculty, and officials of the Catanduanes State University. The book was published by San Anselmo Publication Inc., and the launching was held at the university lobby and graced by CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza. “We always wanted to balance the sciences, and the culture and arts, and that is actually what you brought us here in CatSU,” the CatSU president stated, recognizing the support of his former professor from UPLB. Addressing the participants, Prof. Yapo advised aspiring writers that ‘writing is not a 100m dash, it is a marathon, be patient’. “You need to read to breathe in, write to breathe out,” he explained. Following the book launching and signing ceremony, the publisher, through Prof. Yapo, handed copies of assorted books to Dr. Azanza, for the university library. Meanwhile, commissioned paintings, that were included in the book, are presently displayed in the lobby for a week-long Art Exhibit, from August 14-17. ‘Artfully Speaking and Other Essays’ was sold at P375 and its signed copies are still available at the Corporate Communications and Multimedia Services, ground floor, CatSU Main Building. Prof. Yapo is set to render a lecture on ‘Writing for Publication’, on Tuesday, August 15, at the university’s Accreditation Room. #AGC.
In collaboration with Catanduanes State University – Extension Services (CatSU-ES) and Philippine Coconut Authority, Grameen Foundation USA, Inc. (GFUSA) organized a one-day assessment and closeout meeting along with the beneficiaries of the Farmer-to-Farmer (F2F) Cocos Program on Friday, July 21.With the technical assistance provided by the foundation to capacitate Catandunganon farmers, the seven Coconut Farmer Organizations shared their insights and lessons learned during the implementation of the program particularly in the aspect of financial management.Acknowledging the university’s steadfast commitment and support to the project, Regional Director in Asia and the Pacific Christine Jeanne G. Violago gladly expressed that CatSU is ‘the only state university’ that they have been ‘very successful’ and will now serve as their benchmark to enter other state college or university. GFUSA is a non-profit registered organization that aims to empower the poor, especially women, and eradicate poverty as well as hunger. It ties up with CatSU through a Memorandum of Understanding in 2021 with a mission of promoting sustainable agricultural productivity and profitability initiatives. #AC
In line with the Memorandum of Understanding between Catanduanes State University (CatSU) and Grameen Foundation, USA (GFUSA), the Farmer-to-Farmer Program Team, consisting of US Volunteer Ken Abbott and GFUSA Staff Arcee Pila, was warmly welcomed at the office of the President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, on June 7, 2023.Joining Dr. Azanza in welcoming the team were Dr. Ramon Felipe A. Sarmiento, Vice President for Research, Extension and Production Affairs; Dr. Adem Nalu Rubio, Extension Services Director; and Ms. Thelma Socito.GFUSA, a nonprofit organization with a mission to empower the poor, especially women, and eradicate poverty and hunger, aims to collaborate with CatSU to support sustainable agricultural productivity and profitability initiatives, ultimately improving the livelihoods of impoverished farmers in rural areas of the Philippines.Through CatSU's Extension Services, the understanding between both parties envisions GFUSA mobilizing volunteers to provide specialized technical assistance, focusing on two key outcomes: increasing production through optimal agricultural practices, including climate-smart farming and diversification strategies, and enhancing access to financial services and market opportunities.CatSU will support activities such as identifying and recommending farmer organizations, agribusinesses, cooperatives, microfinance institutions, and other relevant agricultural and financial institutions. Additionally, CatSU will collaborate on collecting baseline and outcome data necessary for measuring the impact of the volunteer assignments.GFUSA, funded by the US Agency for International Development (USAID), will work closely with CatSU to design appropriate scopes of work based on technical assistance needs, recruit and deploy volunteers for specific assignments in the Philippines, and provide logistical, technical, and administrative support throughout their assignments.The Farmer-to-Farmer initiatives, supported by USAID, contribute to rapid and sustainable economic growth in the agricultural sector. These programs also foster international goodwill, promote understanding of US foreign assistance programs, and encourage private engagement in development endeavors. #CIV
The Catanduanes State University (CatSU) has recently unveiled the CatSU Recycled Bike Park and Repair Station, a collaborative effort among CatSU, Catanduanes Cyclist United (CCU), and Sinag Kabataan.Led by CatSU alumnus Mr. Fred Gianan, the project has been successfully completed and is now ready to serve the CatSU community.The idea for the Bike Park and Repair Station was presented by Gianan to CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza during a visit in February. Dr. Azanza immediately showed support and directed Gianan to Engr. Benjamin Hannycel Nuyda, the Planning and Development Services Director and Building and Grounds Services (BGS) Director. This collaboration reflects CatSU's commitment to promoting sustainable initiatives and supporting the interests of the community.Engr. Nuyda, leveraging his expertise and engagement with various university stakeholders, proposed using metal scrap from CatSU as the foundation for the Bike Park. This innovative approach not only repurposes materials but also contributes to the campus's eco-friendly atmosphere."The Bike Park and Repair Station will greatly benefit the CatSU community by providing a dedicated space for cyclists and promoting an active lifestyle," shared Engr. Nuyda.He emphasized that the repair station will be a valuable resource for bike maintenance and repairs, ensuring that cyclists on campus have the necessary support.Gianan expressed his gratitude to Dr. Azanza, Engr. Nuyda, Mr. Florian Avila (CCU President), and the CatSU student volunteers for their valuable contributions to the project. Their assistance, efforts, and collaboration have been instrumental in the successful establishment of the Bike Park and Repair Station.Dr. Azanza commended Engr. Nuyda, Gianan, and Avila for their outstanding work."This initiative is a testament to CatSU's commitment to sustainability and providing facilities that enhance the campus experience for our beloved CatSUans."He also extended his congratulations to Gianan for his leadership in bringing the project to fruition. #CIV
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) and the Department of Interior Local Governance (DILG) of the province recently met on March 8, 2023, to discuss a potential partnership aimed at empowering local government units (LGUs) through training.The meeting was held at the DILG provincial office, with Provincial Director Uldarico Razal, Jr., and Dr. Ramon Felipe A. Sarmiento, the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs of CatSU.The partnership aims to provide basic training on parliamentary procedure, writing ordinances and minutes, resolutions, and other related skills to communities to help them govern themselves effectively.These trainings will be made available to LGUs in the province to enhance their capacity and capability to govern. Both parties expressed their enthusiasm and commitment to the partnership, which they believe will have a positive impact on the province's communities.Dr. Sarmiento shared the importance of empowering LGUs to achieve inclusive and sustainable growth."We believe that empowering the LGUs through training will lead to more efficient and effective governance, which will ultimately benefit the people of the province,” Dr. Sarmiento said.PD Razal, Jr. also expressed his appreciation for the partnership, saying that the DILG is committed to working with CatSU to provide the necessary training to LGUs in the province.He also shared that the DILG Office has reference books where students from CatSU can use in their research.“Igwa kami uyang corner na magagamit nin mga estudyante nin CatSU para sa researches manungod sa local governance. Parte pa ini nin satuyang partnership. Bukas kami pirmi sa anuman na makatabang nin opisina,” the DILG Provincial Director said.The training is expected to start soon, and both parties hope that it will result in better governance and improved quality of life for the province's communities. With this partnership, CatSU and DILG are taking a step towards empowering LGUs and building a stronger, more resilient province. #FJBT
The Catanduanes State University (CatSU) led by its Officer-in-Charge President and CHEDRO-V Regional Director, Dr. Freddie T. Bernal, conducted relief operations in the different barangays in the province which were severely affected by the onslaught of super typhoon Rolly on November 1, 2020 and tropical storm Ulysses. Dr. Marilyn B. Panti, CatSU’s Extension Services Office Director in whose office all relief assistance from various donors were either solicited or channeled, led the University’s provincewide relief operations in the aftermath of Rolly’s devastation. Dr. Panti reported that leading the list of donors to the CatSU’s relief operations is Vice-President Leni Robredo in her official capacity. Overall, Dr. Panti reported that the University received cash assistance from 9 outside donors worth P855, 846.00, 3,204 food packs and several other goods like blankets, trapal, mineral water, and flashlights canned goods, face shield/ mask, shirts, umbrella nail and sacks of rice. There were 28 barangays served with 3, 332 families benefitted in the relief operations of the University. Recipient municipalities were Virac, San Miguel, San Andres, Bato, Panganiban, and Viga. The donors of the University’s relief operations, aside from the Office of Vice-President Leni Robredo were the following: Association of Medical Doctors of Asia (AMDA) International, Japan; Asian Medical Students Association (AMSA); Buhay-buhay sa Amerika through Ms Tess Bongon, BSN 1980 who interviewed via Stream Yard live on Youtube the CatSU’s Exstension Services Director, Dr. Panti; CSU Nursing Alumni International through Ms Evelyn Beltran; Ms Lourdes Cueva, BSN 1976; UP Hamilia Sisterhood and UP Hamilia Brotherhood (UP VIsayas); and an Anonymous donor of 10 sacks of rice and food packs. Upcoming ones are UP Visayas through Dr. Ric Babaran; Ateneo de Manila University; the Ambassador of Taiwan; and the Masters in National Security Administration (MNSA).
As one of the premier Universities in Bicol, the Catanduanes State University (CSU) was identified to deliver its degree program in Master of Arts in Educational Management (MA-EM) being offered by the College of Education, a Center of Development (COD). This was revealed by Dr. Minerva I. Morales, CSU President, as she represented the institution being signatory in the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Rapu-Rapu, Albay represented by its Mayor, Hon. Ronald A. Galicia. The Rapu-Rapu Community College (RRCC) in Rapu-Rapu, Albay has been identified as a venue and host for the said offshore program. It started initially on January 2020 and will end on 2022. The CHED approved the implementation of a Faculty Development Program (FDP) through CHED Memorandum No. 26, series 2009 in which one of the modes that can be applied in the delivery of a course or program is offshore program. Under the agreement, the offshore program is contingent upon the funding support of the LGU of Rapu-Rapu, Albay which shall cover tuition and other fees for those who qualify as scholars. The scholars will be identified by the LGU.
