Dr. Jimmy T. Masagca, Professor VI at the Catanduanes State University College of Agriculture, was among the world scientists who gathered at the One Ocean Science (OOS) Congress held from June 3 to 6 in Nice, France. The congress, organized as a special event of the Third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3), tackled urgent global concerns including the collapse of marine biodiversity, unsustainable fisheries, and the need for stronger science-based action in ocean governance. Masagca, a member of the IUCN Climate Crisis Commission and DA-BFAR’s Scientific Advisory Group, was one of only three Filipino scientists selected by the French Embassy and the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) to participate in the high-level event. The other delegates were Dr. Cha Amedo Repollo, Deputy Director of the UP Marine Science Institute, and Dr. Connie Ponce, a chemist from UP Visayas. “I am honored to be a Philippine delegate to the UN Ocean Conference Special Event – One Ocean Congress in Nice, France,” Masagca posted on Facebook. “Thank you to the French Embassy and CNRS for selecting me.” The CatSU professor attended sessions on the IUCN Green List for Protected and Conserved Areas, the impacts of non-selective fisheries, the BBNJ (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction) Agreement and the Great Blue Wall, and the role of science in supporting BBNJ implementation. “Thank you, French Embassy, for sponsoring my travel to Nice, France,” he added. “The benefits are so immense. I have met and expanded connectivity for collaboration—on coastal restoration.” Masagca also leads the CatSU–Bicol University–Aklan State University Tri-University Consortium, which focuses on coastal and marine research in island regions.
𝐃𝐫. 𝐉𝐢𝐦𝐦𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐜𝐚, 𝐜𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐭, 𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐬 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐭 𝐔𝐍 𝐎𝐜𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐚, 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐧From the island-province of Catanduanes to the coastal city of Barcelona, Spain, Dr. Jimmy T. Masagca, a renowned climate change expert from the Catanduanes State University (CatSU), joined his fellow climate experts and scientists across the world at the three-day UN Ocean Decade Conference from April 10-12, and talked about mangrove restoration.Hosted by the Government of Spain and co-organized with UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC/UNESCO), the conference celebrated the three-year achievements of the 10-year framework initiative of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030) and set joint priorities to overcome the various challenges being confronted by our oceans including climate change, natural hazards, and pollution among others.As among the three invited Filipinos at the UN Ocean Decade, Dr. Masagca presented and spoke with his fellow climate experts about his paper entitled ‘A nature-based solution for climate adaptation and mangrove biodiversity rehabilitation as a conservation evidence initiative in the Philippines’, anchored with the 2nd of 10 Ocean Decade Challenges — protect and restore ecosystems and biodiversity.Aligned with the vision and mission of the UN Ocean Decade, the said paper, co-authored by the university president Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, and Dr. Jennifer A. Berces, stood out among over 5,000 submitted entries across the globe and made it to the conference, according to Dr. Masagca.“I presented each project from coastal oceanography, coastal biology, coastal livelihood, marine ecosystem-based management, marine social science, policy formulation, establishment and rehabilitation of mangrove centers in Catanduanes,” Dr. Masagca shared. This 10-million project is under the Academe for Community Empowerment - Holistic and Ecosystem-based Approach for Mangrove Sustainability or ACE-HEMS program, funded by the Commission on Higher Education - National Agriculture and Fisheries Education System (CHED-NAFES).“Although this is a local project, Catanduanes becomes a model of the Philippines and the World,” he proudly added. 𝐶𝑂𝑁𝐹𝐸𝑅𝐸𝑁𝐶𝐸 𝑇𝐴𝐾𝐸𝐴𝑊𝐴𝑌𝑆Sharing some takeaways from the conference, the CatSU professor cited the significance of community engagement, technology integration, and collaboration in addressing the environmental challenges.“University should not stand at the top of the pedestal, we should go down to the local communities, work with them, study with them,” he uttered.Looking ahead, Dr. Masagca's journey continues to unfold on the international stage. Following the success of the Barcelona conference, he is poised to attend future summits in Abu Dhabi and France in 2025.With his ceaseless dedication and commitment to environmental advocacy, the university professor has been selected to be part of the national panel of technical experts of the Climate Change Commission in 2021 and a member of the International Union and Conservation of Nature (UNCC) since 2009.Asked about his advice to the younger generations, Dr. Masagca's message resounds with clarity: "Study, do research, communicate, and never let financial difficulties hinder your dreams."He also believes that the success of one person is not about what school you graduated from, but rather on a person's ability to rely, connect, study, collaborate, and communicate. Dr. Masagca’s journey, from his humble beginnings as an islander and on becoming a renowned climate expert at the global arena, serves as a testament to the transformative power of education and passion for the environment. 𝑃ℎ𝑜𝑡𝑜 𝐶𝑟𝑒𝑑𝑖𝑡: 𝐷𝑟. 𝐽𝑖𝑚𝑚𝑦 𝑇. 𝑀𝑎𝑠𝑎𝑔𝑐𝑎 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑈𝑃 𝑀𝑎𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑒 𝑆𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝐼𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑡𝑢𝑡𝑒 𝑊𝑒𝑏𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒
Aimed to fortify the college's commitment to upscale research initiatives, the College of Health Sciences (CHS) of Catanduanes State University (CatSU) concluded its 3-day seminar workshop attended by its faculty-researchers, January 12, 2024, at the E-Crown Hotel and Resort.University President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, highlighted in his message the paramount importance of research in determining the university's standing on a global scale. "Distinguishing a true university from those aspiring to achieve that status, research stands out as a defining factor," emphasized Dr. Azanza.Dr. Maria Alma V. Tabirara, the Dean of CHS, shared her vision for the seminar's transformative impact on the college's research culture. "The participants' comprehensive learning will ultimately channel effectively into pertinent research outcomes, placing the college within the distinguished research culture expected of a university," she declared. Dr. Tabirara also underscored the alignment of the seminar's focus on experimental designs and ethical considerations with the college's overarching research goals, citing the inspiration and challenge it brings to the faculty.Reflecting on the achievements and future plans, College Research Coordinator, Dr. John F. Villegas, expressed satisfaction with the seminar's outcomes. "Mainly, the aim is to build the capacity of CHS faculty members, and I am humbly pleased to say that our goals have been met and achieved," he remarked. Dr. Villegas outlined his commitment to sustaining the newfound enthusiasm among faculty members by being readily available with his time and support.Sharing insights as a participant, faculty member Mr. Arnel Aarron M. Alcantara emphasized the applicability of the seminar's teachings to his work within CHS. "Acquiring knowledge of the latest research methodologies and staying updated on advancements can significantly improve the quality and effectiveness of research conducted within CHS," he noted. Alcantara also highlighted the seminar's influence on problem identification and the formulation of specific research questions, stating, "Understanding ethical considerations can help us formulate research questions that adhere to ethical standards and prioritize the well-being of participants."
In accordance with the DBM-CHED Joint Circular No. 3, s. 2022, the Catanduanes State University, through its Academic Service Division spearheaded by the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs in partnership with the Federated Faculty Union, organized the Orientation on the Reclassification of Faculty Positions on Thursday, July 27, at the university gymnasium.Dr. Rosana S. Abundo, the faculty regent, gave an overview of the Guiding Principles for DBM CHED JC No. 3, s. 2022, which covered the point system for professor ranks, cycle evaluation, and merit promotion. She also presented the entirety of the Professional Certification process. Meanwhile, Prof. Moreno D. Tabios Jr., a faculty member from the Math Department of the College of Science, presented the Appreciation of Documentary Evidences required in the evaluation of faculty reclassification. Moreover, during the orientation proper, Prof. Tabios elaborated on the criteria and its supplemental guidelines that are grouped into four (4) Key Result Areas (KRAs), namely: (1) Instruction; (2) Research, Invention and Creative Work; (3) Extension; & (4) Professional Development. In the afternoon session, Dr. Gemma G. Acedeo, Vice President for Academic Affairs, discussed the summary of faculty position classification, its forms and applications. CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza thanked the faculty members of both campuses for their enthusiasm and interest. The president shared the good news about the extension given by CHED as the deadline for submission, which is on August 15, and reminded the importance of being on time. He also encouraged all the College deans to assist their respective faculty members to be able to comply. After the orientation and workshop proper, an Open Forum followed which engaged the faculty members in a Q&A Session, and queries were addressed. Ms. Sionne May T. Crispino, the Head of Human Resources Management Services (HRMS), explained the flow of the evaluation procedure.Relatively, the DBM-CHED Joint Circular No. 3, s. 2022, entitled: “𝘎𝘶𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘙𝘦𝘤𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘍𝘢𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘺 𝘗𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘜𝘯𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘊𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘦𝘴 (𝘚𝘜𝘊𝘴),” aims to carry out the following objectives, to wit: (1) To provide an updated and revised policies and guidelines for the reclassification of faculty positions across SUCs; (2) To serve as the basis for policy decisions for faculty development in SUCs; and (3) To motivate a faculty to upgrade his/her rank and compensation by improving his/her academic qualifications, achievements, and performance.
To foster social relations and in effect improve the interpersonal ties and work relationships as well as address gender sensitive issues in the workplace, the Catanduanes State University College of Education conducts a team building activity dubbed as BUROGKOS: A team Building Activity developing Committed and Gender Sensitive CoEd Faculty and Staff on April 16, 2023 at Amenia Beach Resort, Barangay Palawig, Virac, Catanduanes. Before subjecting the faculty and staff of CoEd to fun and puzzling and sometimes physically-challenging activities which also encourage teamwork, two topics were discussed by its invited resource speakers: Developing Committed faculty and Staff with the CatSU’s Guidance, Counseling & Testing Officer, Mr. Noly Benavides and Physical, Social, Mental, Psychological, and Spiritual Well-being with GAD Focal Person, Ms. Reashiela L. Khan.Specifically, the activity aimed at sustaining healthy working relationship anchored on value-laden principles and committed towards excellence in government services and living out core values enabling to respond to colleagues’ varied needs and to promote others’ physical, mental, psychological, social and spiritual well- being which are gender-responsive. The said activity was initiated by the CoEd Faculty Association President, Prof. Jowi B. Resayaga and supported by the college’s GAD Coordinator, Ms. Ena Marie M. Sarmiento. “We will certainly meet our goals for the College of Education and for this University, if we work committedly together as a team- as a family.”, said Dr. Maria Sheila R. Gregorio, Dean of the College of Education. #CoEd
Faculty members from various colleges at Catanduanes State University (CatSU) participated in a Training for Trainers (TOT) program organized by the ASEAN Data Science Explorers (ADSE).This initiative, a collaboration between the ASEAN Foundation and SAP, aims to equip educators across the region with the skills and knowledge needed to teach data science and analytics to students.The event was initiated by ASEAN Data Science Explorers Youth Ambassador, Mr. Mhar Ariz T. Marino, and the Director of the Center for International Relations and Continuing Professional Development Services (CIRCPDS), Zyra Mae T. Tumala.A total of 33 CatSU faculty members took part in the program.Upon completing the session, participants are expected to hold echo sessions with their colleagues and students to share the knowledge and skills they have gained. #CVecilles
A professor from Catanduanes State University's Panganiban Campus is among 10 educators from the Philippines selected to join the 2023 Cohort of Country Ambassadors for the T4 Education Community.Gregorio V. Angeles Jr., Assistant Professor, will serve in this role for a year, ending on January 31, 2024.As an Ambassador, Prof. Angeles must commit to 50 hours, or approximately 4 hours per month, of voluntary service throughout the year.In his capacity as an ambassador, Prof. Angeles will choose a volunteer role in either the Social Media Squad or the Teacher Outreach Squad.As a member of the Social Media Squad, Prof. Angeles will need to be active on at least three platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, or YouTube. His responsibilities will include supporting the community during major events like the Teacher Tech Summit, as well as similar regular events launching in 2023. Additionally, he will assist with co-hosting or supporting live events, such as Twitter chats.As part of the Teacher Outreach Squad, Prof. Angeles will prioritize contacting teachers in the country to recruit them to join the community, including the T4 Communities app, registering them for events, and encouraging participation in research, prizes, and challenges. He will be expected to have methods for contacting and engaging teachers in the country, with guidance from the T4 Ambassadors. He will also take on the role of hosting (or co-hosting with T4) webinars to promote various activities."I am privileged to be one of the Country Ambassadors for the Philippines. As a 2023 Cohort, I am proud to represent our country and offer selfless service to fellow educators not only in our nation but also in other countries. I am honored to be part of this significant advocacy," Prof. Angeles shared.About T4 Education and its Founder, Vikas PotaT4 Education is a digital platform created by founder and CEO Vikas Pota. This platform emerged in response to the global challenges the pandemic posed to education. T4 aims to empower educators and schools by offering opportunities for learning and collaboration, while developing tools to support their global community's progress.Before T4, Vikas was heavily involved in the education sector. He founded and managed a philanthropic foundation dedicated to teachers, launching the Global Teacher Prize to celebrate the teaching profession. He has also advocated for the Sustainable Development Goals at the UN, G20, and various governments. Additionally, he established a technical and vocational skills business in Africa to address youth unemployment, created a corporate venture capital business investing in high-growth edtech companies, and led branding, marketing, communications, and corporate affairs strategies for a renowned K-12 education business.Vikas serves on numerous non-profit boards, including The Education Outcomes Fund, Artists in Residence, Global School Leaders, Queen Rania Teacher Academy, Educate Girls, and Teach for All. He is an Honorary Lecturer at the UCL Institute of Education, a former Visiting Practitioner at Harvard Graduate School of Education, and a Senior Policy Fellow at the University of Cambridge's Centre for Science & Policy. Recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, Vikas has been named one of London's 1000 most influential people, is a member of the Young Presidents Organization, and has received two honorary doctorates for his accomplishments. A frequent voice in the media, Vikas passionately advocates for the transformative potential of quality education and actively works to build a global community of educators and schools to make that vision a reality. #FJBT
Dr. Balunsay is an Associate Professor V at Catanduanes State University's College of Humanities and Social Sciences. He is currently the director of the Sentro ng Wika at Kultura, an office created by the SUC President III, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, and approved by the Board of Regents in January 2022.Among his administrative designations, Dr. Balunsay served as the Graduate School Chairperson for Non Education-related graduate programs in 2021, and was previously the research coordinator at the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS). He also guided the CatSU Statesman, the university's student publication as its former adviser.From his teaching experience at DepEd in Sto. Domingo National High School in Sto. Domingo, Albay, Dr. Balunsay transferred to CatSU and began his journey in 2013 as an Instructor I. This was the start of his rising through the ranks to his current position. Dr. Balunsay has provided expert services in Research with involvement in committees covering Specialization for Undergraduate Thesis in the different programs in the College of Education, as well as in Filipino, Graduate School Level IV, and the Accreditation Task Force for Master of Arts in Filipino Education. He also served as a committee member for its Dissertation.With his expertise, he has become one of the most sought-after resource persons for Consultancy services, serving as a Panelist/Evaluator for Master's Thesis, editor and adviser of Masters in undergraduate thesis, and a LET Review lecturer. He also takes resource speakership as well.Recently, Dr. Balunsay was pleased to share the availability of physical copies of the copyrighted books which were outputs of his research in CatSU. These research outputs are for utilization in some Filipino subjects in CatSU."All outputs were submitted to the National Library for copyright registration and were approved in December 2022," Dr. Balunsay said."I am really motivated because I get to discover new knowledge, and because of that, I am more driven to create and finish instructional materials that could help our students," he added. Dr. Balunsay remarked that students need to be supported in terms of helping them understand, especially Education students, that research and teaching are two essential things they need to learn to produce higher learning outcomes, which is a vital effort in improving our quality of instruction. #CVecilles
Dr. Jimmy T. Masagca, Professor VI of Catanduanes State University, has been chosen as a distinguished recipient of Asia’s Modern Hero Awards as Heroes’ Outstanding College Professor for this year, 2023. The Award-giving body, which also produced the successful Asia’s Golden Icons Awards, and Asia’s Pinnacle Awards, gave the prestigious recognition after weighing of pertinent factors to Dr. Masagca’s contribution in education and research.“There is an eminent need to recognize the scintilla of hope and aspiration in your role in nation-building and socio-economic changes, that you may become a beacon of inspiration. This nomination is a token of appreciation as we value your remarkable contributions to our country,” Dr. Ronnel P. Ybanez, President of the Award-giving body, said in his letter to Dr. Masagca.“We are now opening its Hall for you to walk in this pedestal of Awardees wearing the badge of honor as an ASIA’S MODERN HERO, wherein you may exchange the best practices in your field of expertise. Humanitarian endeavors and philanthropic activities that may possibly result to noble collaborations,” he added. The recognition given to Dr. Masagca was unanimously decided by the Board of Council which is compose of four highly competent individuals namely: Mr. Vidal D. Villanueva III – Deputy Director General, TESDA; Mayor Marcos M. Mamay – National Vice President of League of Municipalities of the Philippines; Ms. Erarev Bacho – Eralista Worldwide Founder; and Dr. Alim Fatani Sultan Abdul Malik, DPA – National President of Ulama and Imam of the Philippines Association. #FJBT
With the objective of orienting and empowering of the newly hired and current faculty members, the College of Health Sciences (CHS) headed by Dean Joel T. Olfindo, conducted a seminar workshop held on January 9-11, 2023, at the CSH Amphitheater."We want our new faculty members to get familiarized with the vision, mission, goal, core values, quality policy, and institutional outcomes of CatSU and the program outcomes of Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics towards achieving quality education”, Dean Olfindo said. The (3) three-day seminar-workshop aimed to help the faculty members to demonstrate understanding of the policies and academic requirements for an effective teaching-learning environment, to rekindle and revitalize the essence of good values and professionalism for a harmonious relationship in the workplace, personal advancement, and mutual respect.“This activity is very important as we prepare our teaching force to acknowledge the provisions in the Faculty, Research, and Extension Manuals in order to effectively carry out the mandate of the university”, Dean Olfindo added. Organized and facilitated by Dr. Erlinda F. Tabor, CHS Quality Assurance Adviser, the seminar workshop yielded a full attendance from the BS ND and BSN Faculty, and with active participation that include topics discussed about Research and Development, led by Dr. John Villegas, CHS Research Coordinator. The college Extension and Community Services was presented by Prof. Kevin Asmer Aldave, Extension Coordinator, while the preparation of IPCR and other pertinent Academic Reports was discussed by Dean Olfindo. The second day featured the Assessment and evaluation/preparation of Specification led by Dr. Tabor, and the Informatics and other related IT in Nursing education such as the use of MS Excel in the preparation of grades was tackled by Associate Professor Aries Gianan. Another topic of the workshop is the preparation of Syllabus, Teaching Plan and other RLE requirements which was discussed by Associate Professor Lilibeth I. Tubalinal. The Seminar workshop concluded on its third day with a presentation and critiquing of outputs, as well as it submission. Dr. Tabor shared that it is but academically essential to prepare and present academic-related requirements that adhere to standards and following the prescribed format. #CVecilles
Dr. Jimmy T. Masagca, Professor VI of the Catanduanes State University attended the 2022 International Symposium on Small Pelagic Fish: New Frontiers in Science for Sustainable Development held in Lisbon, Portugal on November 7-11, 2022. The scientific meeting was organized by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), the North Pacific Marine Science Organization (PICES) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere, I.P. (IPMA) is a public institution, part of the indirect administration of State, following the responsibility of the Ministry of Economy and Sea and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food, under the supervision and guardianship of the respective ministers. Dr. Masagca presented his oral presentation on ‘small pelagic fishes and fisheries in the coastal waters of Catanduanes Island, Philippines within climate variability” in the topic Session S4, and a poster on “An integrated risk-based assessment of Cabugao Bay in Catanduanes, Philippines for small pelagic fishes to guide ecosystem-based management” in the topic S7.Dr. Masagca is one of the members of the National Panel of Technical Experts (NPTE) by the Climate Change Commission (CCC) whose goals are to localize science-based climate actions. Dr. Masagca has fields of expertise that include Biology, Aquatic Science, Natural Science, and Fisheries. His affiliations include that of being a Professor VI in CatSU, Member of PIPERS Committee (CatSU), Commissioner Member, IUCN-CEC, and Scientific Advisor of Pacifictech RTIC Inc. NGO.Subsequently, Dr. Masagca was also awarded by the Office of the President, Climate Change Commission a Certificate of Appearance for being present during the 11th NPTE Forum, with the theme: “Transforming Science into Local Actions Towards Climate Resilience” held on November 23, 2022 at Novotel Manila, Quezon City. Dr. Masagca holds a degree in BS Fisheries from UP Diliman, MS Biology from De la Salle University, Meritissimus Doctorate in Education from CatSU, and finally impregnated and mixed with CatSU education forming the best combination to work with the locals of the island, the Bicol region, and the country. #CVecilles
Prof. Mark Anthony R. Dalipe, Chairperson of the Physical Education Department, College of Education of CatSU was recently awarded as Most Outstanding Innovative Leader and Educator in Physical Education and Sports in honor of his outstanding qualities, excellence, highest moral standards, honesty, civic accountability and social responsibility. The award was given by the International Organization of Educators and Researchers Inc., (IOER) during its first International Excellence Awards on December 12, 2022 at Grand Ballroom, Okada, Manila, Philippines. The International Organization of Educators and Researchers Inc., (IOER), is an academic organization of eminent educationists, researchers, and practitioners across the globe. It aims to conduct national and international activities related to education and research, such as conferences, research forums, seminars and training, and other events supporting the importance of education and research. The IOER also aims to intensify collaboration and expand partnerships among academic scientists, educators, researchers, research scholars, practitioners, and students worldwide as well as exchange and share their innovative ideas, practices, experiences, and research results in various disciplines. The IOER vehemently strives to engage, thrive, and lead in the international platform through innovative and collaborative research that transforms knowledge and scientific discoveries into action. The organization is committed to strengthening and transforming synergies of expertise in the field of Scientific and Academic Research activities across the globe and provides leadership training and promotes integrated scholarly activities to enhance research productivity. #CVecilles
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) faculty, Dr. Jose Z. Tria of the College of Education (CoEd), was awarded as one of the Most Inspiring Teachers (MIT) of the Republic of the Philippines July 2021 last year, and was recently granted an honorary degree, Profesor Ad Honorem Vitasta Ambassador Distiction Honoris Causa by the Saceda Youth Lead School last August 4-6, 2022. It was in celebration of the 10th anniversary of MIT with the MIT Convention 2022 held at Foundation University, City of Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines, in collaboration with the Universite Henry Dunant, Republic of Ivory Coast, a subsidiary of the UHD Geneva, Switzerland. Saceda Youth Lead is a Youth Serving Institution of the Philippines under the auspices of the National Youth Commission of the Philippines. Since 2013, the organization has been awarding teachers and school heads in the country that possesses strong leadership, passion and dedication to education, which have become great inspiration to the youth. Their partner institutions are DepEd, CHED, TESDA, ASEAN, UNESCO, NYC (National Youth Commission), various local government units, and many more. Dr. Tria presently the Director of Research and Development Services, gained recognition for his exceptional efforts that made an impact inside and outside the University. Dr. Tria is a Ph.D. graduate and has participated in several local and international conferences, awarded with best presenter and paper award. He conducted and published studies with more than 200 Google Scholar citations. Along with more than thirty copyrighted creative works used in instruction, research and extension activities, and different musical performances. He has co-led academic programs and spearheaded vital projects that involved teachers, youth, and the Local Government Units (LGUs) in the Philippines. He is also an Associate Member of the National Research Council of the Philippines and an active member of various education-related organizations locally and internationally.Dr. Tria was the youngest to receive the MIT award at 26 in 2021, an honorary degree in 2022, the only Bicolano MIT in the 2022 batch, and the first Catandunganon to receive both. He mentioned that the most valuable legacy of an Honoris Causa is for making it possible to influence and inspire change for himself, thus, ensuring stronger families and communities for a better and safer Philippines. He said, "being a teacher is a multifaceted profession - we teach and we learn, we relearn and we unlearn, we adopt and we adapt, we love and we care, but most of all, we always inspire. The pandemic has changed how we live. The face of education has also changed dramatically - and one thing a teacher can do is to do the right thing and to teach ourselves right - and to balance everyone's aptitude and attitude." The Profesor Ad Honorem/Vitasta Ambassador Distinction Honoris Causa is an acknowledged mark of professional excellence and ability, inspiring and outstanding professional career, services to humankind, and international achievements. Some of his co-MITs conferred with the honorary degree were heads of academic institutions, university presidents, directors, SDS, program supervisors and specialists, professors, deans, principals, school heads, retired professional teachers and teachers coming from different parts of the Philippines. To obtain the Profesor ad Honorem Vitasta Ambassador Distinction, the nominated MIT must have at least 120 points coming from several sets of criteria such as achievements, travels and conventions, leadership, contributions and influence, affiliations, awards, talents and skills. The Conferral Ceremony of the MIT was presided by the Universite Herny Dunant of Ivory Coast through the leadership of Dr. Aimé Kouassi Malanhoua, President and Co-Founder of Université Henry Dunant and made possible by the partnership between the University and Saceda Youth Lead, headed by Dr. Dave G. Saceda. #GZafe Photo Credits: Dr. Jose Tria
