Faculty and students of Catanduanes State University (CatSU) were urged to critically and ethically integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into education and research during a 3-day workshop held from November 11-13, 2024, at E-Crown Hotel & Resort.Research and Development Services (RDS) Director Dr. Jose Z. Tria pinned on the importance of thoughtful AI use, and its potential to transform teaching and research when applied responsibly. “Our idea is our own prompt. We must consider how we will use AI critically and ethically,” he said. Director Tria also recommended tools such as ORCID, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate to help participants streamline research workflows and boost academic productivity.The workshop, titled “Empowering Innovations through Integrating AI and LLM Tools for Effective Teaching, Learning, and Research,” introduced participants to Brisk Teaching, an AI-powered platform for creating dynamic presentations and lesson plans. College of Education faculty member Emlyn M. Lanon demonstrated the tool, and the need to balance AI with traditional teaching approaches to preserve the human element in education. Director Lanon’s presentation banked on the perspectives from education experts Kovalenko and Baranivska (2024) on integrating technology without compromising pedagogical values.Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs (VP REPA) Dr. Rosana S. Abundo opened the workshop by welcoming participants and stressing the significance of strengthening faculty capabilities in teaching, learning, and research through AI integration. “This workshop empowers us to adapt to innovations while ensuring that these tools enhance, rather than replace, our expertise as educators and researchers,” the Vice President said.
Graduates often take diverse journeys as they pursue their careers following the conferral of their degrees. Each path is unique, shaped by personal dreams and professional aspirations. Yet, how truly remarkable it is when alumni not only excel in their chosen fields but also seek ways to give back to their alma mater and communities, with their stories becoming a source of pride for the university.Such exceptional achievement was celebrated at the CatSU Parangal 2024 on October 18 at the gymnasium, where two outstanding alumni who have stood out among others were recognized for their success in their fields.Following a rigorous selection process by the Search for Outstanding Alumni of CatSU, chaired by College of Law Associate Dean Atty. Gregorio M. Sarmiento Jr. with Alumni Relations Director Maricel S. Cariaso, two exemplary alumni emerged as this year’s honorees – Department of Agrarian Reform Provincial Officer Dr. Nerisa B. Aldea and Dean of CatSU Graduate School Dr. Arthur I. Tabirara.Notably, Dr. Aldea has advanced agrarian reform and community development in Catanduanes. Her work focuses on improving service efficiency, overseeing the distribution of land ownership certificates, and implementing various programs that support farmers and beneficiaries. Under her leadership, several cooperatives and associations received support for climate-resilient agricultural practices, boosting productivity and sustainability. Moreover, she established a Farmer's Business School and secured funding for farm machinery, which provided much-needed resources for local agriculture.Meanwhile, CatSU's Graduate School has been stepping up under the leadership of Dr. Arthur I. Tabirara. As Dean, he introduced reforms such as updating the Graduate School Manual and enhancing curricula to meet current needs. He facilitated program upgrades and proposed the opening of doctoral programs to meet growing demands.In community service, Dr. Tabirara actively leads the Knights of Columbus, an international religious-based organization committed to serving different community sectors. He was recently appointed district deputy, covering six councils in the province. He also played a principal role in local legislation, particularly in environmental conservation and waste management, which have earned him awards and recognition.Dr. Tabirara viewed the award as a reminder for all CatSU graduates to uphold the university’s core values. He also emphasized that such recognition serves as encouragement to continue their commitment to community service and faith-driven leadership, extending blessings to the university for its role in inspiring service to others."Receiving this award is an enduring reminder for CatSU graduates to embody the university’s core values in serving others and honoring God,” he shared. As these stories of achievement and service unfold, it is clear that the legacy of CatSU thrives through its graduates. Dr. Aldea and Dr. Tabirara are just two shining examples of the many alumni whose service to their communities and fields of expertise serves as an inspiration to future generations. It is certain that many more exceptional alumni will be recognized as the search continues, further solidifying the reputation of the university as a catalyst for change, progress, and service, and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
In his homily at the 2024 Diocesan Youth Day, Most Rev. Luisito A. Occiano, the Bishop of the Diocese of Virac, compared the youth to a fire that provides warmth and hope to others. He encouraged them to embrace their role in lighting the way for others.“Pag ang kalayo kinaputan mo, makukulgan ka. Pero ‘pag ang kalayo, dinala mo sa diklom, matatabangan ka,” Bishop Occiano said, speaking to hundreds of young Catholics gathered for a day of worship, fellowship, and spiritual growth at the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) on December 14.Rev. Fr. Benju Royce T. De Jesus, who spoke on the topic "APARTINENS: Youth Desiring to Belong to the Church," expanded on this idea by emphasizing that the youth are not just the hope of the Church but are the Church itself.“Ang kabataan, bako sanang pag-asa ning simbahan. Ang kabataan mismo ang simbahan. Remember, bako ta ika an paglaom, kundi ika mismo simbahan. Ika mismo parte nin simbahan,” Fr. De Jesus declared, stressing the vital role of young people in the life of the Church.The theme of youth actively contributing to the Church continued with Rev. Fr. Ryan T. Zafe’s session on “PREASTATIO: Youth Serving Fellow Youth.” Fr. Zafe encouraged the youth to promote inclusivity within their communities.“Ang mga youth kayang maging inclusive sa community. We serve one another, we help one another build a stronger and more vibrant Church,” he said, pointing out the power of youth-led service.In another session, Rev. Fr. Herald B. Cueva, speaking on “QUARENS: Youth in Search of Faith” at Risen Christ Hall, urged the youth to deepen their faith, especially in the face of life’s challenges.“An pagtubod somehow minakusog sa tahaw nin diklom. Sa tahaw ning pagduda. Alagad, apisar kan pagduda, and still, we choose to trust in God. That is faith,” Fr. Cueva shared, encouraging the young attendees to remain steadfast in their faith despite doubts.During the plenary session, Rev. Fr. Eduardo Z. Zafe reminded the youth of the importance of upholding the Eucharist, saying “Walang magiging bunga ang ating youth ministries sa parishes, if we, youth ministries, do not realize the importance of upholding the Eucharist.”In closing, Rev. Fr. Nestor Perpetou Pastor, the director of the Catholic Youth Apostolate (CYA), expressed his gratitude to the young participants. Reflecting on the theme “IGNITE: Youth on Fire with Faith and Love in the Golden Jubilee,” he thanked the youth for coming together to answer God's call and for their active participation in the event. Photo Credit: CYA Apostolate
To equip them with knowledge to protect intellectual property rights and effectively share their research findings, faculty members of the Catanduanes State University-College of Information and Communications Technology (CatSU-CICT) attended a two-day seminar-workshop on intellectual property rights. Held at Midtown Inn and Resort in Batag on December 12-13, 2024, the event featured invited resource speakers: Ms. Ma. Monette DR. Tugay, Engr. Dexter M. Toyado, and Dr. Jose Z. Tria. They led discussions on topics such as intellectual property rights, patent strategies, copyright laws, pathways for commercializing academic research, and current trends and best practices in research. Photo Credit: CICT
To guide the efforts and ensure the continued success of the university in research and extension, the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs (OVPREPA), led by Dr. Rosana S. Abundo, organized a three-day Research, Development, and Extension (RD&E) Planning Workshop and Stakeholders’ Forum for Calendar Year 2025 on December 12-14, 2024. “This meeting marks a significant milestone in our journey towards fostering knowledge, driving innovation, and making a tangible impact in our community,” Dr. Abundo expressed in the event that brought together government agencies, stakeholders, and university faculty. The Vice President also briefed other stakeholders on the mandates of her office, emphasizing its role in promoting research excellence and sustainable development. Dr. Abundo enumerated the offices under the OVPREPA, including the University Intellectual Property Rights and Commercialization (UIPRC) Office, the Abaca Technology Innovation Center (ATIC), Center for Catandungan Heritage, and the Center for Culture and Arts.“These centers, working collaboratively and translating research findings into practical solutions, contribute to the economic well-being of the institution and the community,” she added.She likewise stressed the importance of bridging the gap between the academe and real-world applications through extension programs and innovation initiatives, aiming to nurture creativity and a culture of experimentation. “As we delve into the intricacies of our operational plan, let us keep in mind the goal of our institution and the province – to be a catalyst of progress and a beacon of excellence,” Dr. Abundo concluded.The workshop featured presentations from representatives of various government agencies, such as Provincial Agricultural Services, DOST-Provincial Science and Technology Center, Department of Trade and Industry-Catanduanes, Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Catanduanes, and Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) Regional Office V. Director of Research and Development Services Dr. Jose Z. Tria provided the overview of activities of the three-day event, featuring different discussions. The final day featured the presentation of preparatory phase outputs and college extension agenda operational plans by extension coordinators. The event, themed “Empowering Innovations and Community Impact: Navigating the Future of the Province Through RD&E”, was held at the E-Crown Hotel and Resort in San Vicente, Virac, Catanduanes.
The College of Education (COED) of Catanduanes State University (CatSU) delivered much-needed relief to 239 pupils of Dugui Too Elementary School in Virac on December 14, 2024, through its extension project, EduKalinga.Combining the Filipino words for education and care (kalinga), EduKalinga aimed to support the post-typhoon recovery of the remote school through a day of Psychological First Aid activities through games, gift-giving of school supplies and clothes, and a feeding program. The initiative, led by Extension Coordinator Jowi B. Resayaga, was made possible by donations from faculty members and external sponsors.The event was attended by the College Student Council officers, and faculty, alongside the College Dean, Dr. Ma. Sheila R. Gregorio. The beneficiary-school, accessible only through rugged terrain and unpaved roads, has faced challenges since the typhoon damaged two classrooms and left others in need of repair.School Principal Neil F. Bañares expressed gratitude for the assistance and its impact on their ongoing recovery efforts. "Education must continue kahit nasira ang dalawa naming classrooms at need naman ng minor repairs ang iba pa. Ngayon, tuloy po ang aming recovery efforts at malaking tulong po ang gawaing gaya nito sa adhikain naming makabangon at maipagpatuloy ang edukasyon ng mga kabataan," he said. This marks the first time since the typhoon that an external stakeholder has extended direct support to the school, that give hope to both the teachers and learners striving to rebuild.
To spread love and joy this yuletide season, the CatSU-Karibangbang, a recognized LGBTQIA+ organization of Catanduanes State University, collaborated with non-government organizations Meal for Happiness and Heart for Philippines to bring smiles to children in need. The joint initiative benefited over 50 pupils from Bacak Elementary School in Bagamanoc, providing them with clothes, toys, shoes, slippers, books, food, and hygiene kits on December 9, 2024. CatSU-Karibangbang President Gilbert Lorens Vargas shared that the activity was realized despite limited preparation time, expressing gratitude to the members’ enthusiasm and determination to make a difference.“This was never forced—everyone volunteered willingly because we all wanted to contribute in our own way,” Vargas said. He further explained how members worked hand-in-hand, reaching out to donors, repacking items, and coordinating efforts to ensure the outreach activity was a success. "It was a genuine expression of our desire to help," Vargas added.
To spread love and joy this yuletide season, the CatSU-Karibangbang, a recognized LGBTQIA+ organization of Catanduanes State University, collaborated with non-government organizations Meal for Happiness and Heart for Philippines to bring smiles to children in need. The joint initiative benefited over 50 pupils from Bacak Elementary School in Bagamanoc, providing them with clothes, toys, shoes, slippers, books, food, and hygiene kits on December 9, 2024. CatSU-Karibangbang President Gilbert Lorens Vargas shared that the activity was realized despite limited preparation time, expressing gratitude to the members’ enthusiasm and determination to make a difference.“This was never forced—everyone volunteered willingly because we all wanted to contribute in our own way,” Vargas said. He further explained how members worked hand-in-hand, reaching out to donors, repacking items, and coordinating efforts to ensure the outreach activity was a success. "It was a genuine expression of our desire to help," Vargas added.
In the spirit of generosity and solidarity, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Extension Services conducted the Paogma Gift-Giving Outreach Activity at JMA Poniton Elementary School on December 11.Led by Dr. Adem Nalu V. Rubio, Director of Extension Services, alongside CatSU extensionists and staff, the initiative brought smiles to the faces of 78 pupil-beneficiaries.“This outreach activity was not just about providing material aid but also about showing the pupils that they are cared for and supported by their community. We are deeply grateful to the CatSU office heads and everyone who donated clothing, toys, and other valuable resources for the children,” Dr. Rubio said. The event was organized in response to the needs of JMA Poniton’s young learners, many of whom come from families facing financial challenges. Alongside food packs containing rice, canned goods, and other staples, the activity distributed second-hand clothing, toys, and learning materials, making the season brighter for the pupils.
Addressing 133 new nurses and 30 new nutritionist-dieticians, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Atty. Septon A. de la Cruz pinned on his message that they should serve with dignity and humanity during the Testimonial Dinner held on December 6 at the university gymnasium.“In every step you take, let compassion be your compass and guide you to offer not just care, but dignity and humanity. Remember, true service extends beyond hospital walls and clinic doors. It reaches the outskirts, where healthcare is a distant dream, and touches the lives of the less privileged, where hope often flickers faintly,” Atty. de la Cruz said, and further expounded on true service measures that extend beyond hospital walls and clinic doors to the less privileged.Atty. de la Cruz also commended the passers and said they should take pride in themselves for passing the rigors of their education to earn the profession.“You must take pride in yourselves. Everyone knows it was no easy feat. From meeting admission requirements to excelling in exams, to competing in an ever-challenging field—your achievements are a proof of your grit and determination,” the OIC said.He also advised them to balance ambition with humility, knowledge with empathy, and success with service, noting that the profession they have chosen is both a privilege and responsibility that will demand strength, wisdom, and kindness.With special accolade, he lauded Mikael Angelo R. Romero, who made it to the top 10 nationwide, saying Mikael’s journey is an inspiring example of discipline and leadership, for Mikael being a high school Corps Commander of the Advanced Citizenship Training Program (ACTP) and now a topnotcher in the academe side.“Your achievement reflects not just personal excellence but also the potential every student of this university possesses when discipline meets determination,” the OIC said. The OIC also lauded the Vice Presidents, dean, chairpersons, faculty, and support staff of the College of Health Sciences (CHS) for achieving another laurel for the university.
Now in its third year of implementation, the Catanduanes State University-College of Education (CatSU-CoED), in collaboration with the CatSU Laboratory Schools, has broadened the reach of its extension program, PundAsyon (Pundasyon+Edukasyon): Instructional Enhancement Training for Child Development Workers/Teachers (CDW/Ts), now including participants from the municipality of Bato, in addition to its initial coverage in Virac.Pundasyon is an extension program of CoED consisting of a series of seminar-workshops aimed at equipping CDW/Ts with the latest pedagogical skills and knowledge for teaching pre-kindergarten pupils.Attended by CDW/Ts from Virac and Bato towns, CoED Extension Coordinator, Jowi B. Resayaga, emphasized the program’s goals were not just to impart learning but most importantly for CDTs to demonstrate competence aligned with the government-set standards. “Hindi lang target ng PundAsyon ang learning, ang gusto po namin lahat kayong CDT ay competent sa kung ano man ang standard ng gobyerno sa pagtuturo,” Resayaga told the participants during the two-day simultaneous training on December 11-12, 2024, at the CatSU Extension Training Hall and Accreditation Room. Echoing this sentiment, CoED Dean Dr. Maria Sheila R. Gregorio said, “Nandito kami para punan ang kulang sa inyong mga alam na at natutunan na.”The training for Bato CDW/Ts covered topics discussed by CoED faculty facilitators, such as the Principles of early childhood development, developing phonemic awareness, and developing instructional materials through MS Application. Meanwhile, Virac CDW/Ts now in their third year of training, focused on strengthening early education in which the facilitators presented the results of the CDW/Ts classroom observation, classroom demonstration was also taught by the facilitators. The trainers also engaged in a small-group discussion and enhancement session with the facilitators.
Atty. Septon A. de la Cruz, Officer-in-Charge of Catanduanes State University (CatSU), turned over Php 70,500 in cash donations collected by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region V to CatSU Panganiban Director Dr. Ramon F. Samonte on December 5 at the Office of the President.The donation was used to purchase goods for CatSU Panganiban Campus students and personnel, who were severely affected by the destruction caused by Super typhoon Pepito. Dr. Samonte said the financial aid would support the recovery efforts of the campus community and help both students and staff rebuild after the calamity.
Community’s Hope for the Unemployed and Marginalized Sector of Society: Adopted Community Organizations Extension Services (CHUMSS: ACOs) project, led by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, was recognized as Rank 26 under the A8 category: Support for Global Resilience at the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI).WURI is one of three Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) recognized ranking systems for higher education institution internationalization, such as the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS World, Asia, and Stars), and Times Higher Education (THE World, Asia, and Impact Rankings).It evaluates and ranks top universities around the world for the institution’s real contributions to industry and society.Launched in September 2023, the CHUMSS: ACOs Project reflects the university’s drive to community development and sustainable livelihoods. According to CHUMSS faculty member, Ricardo Arcilla Jr., who is also the brainchild of the project, the program supported four ACOs, benefiting 106 members through training and resources to promote self-sufficiency.The college also partnered with TESDA-CSHCI and the Local Government Unit of Bagamanoc to strengthen the project’s impact. CHUMSS ACOs focuses on five key components. First is Capacity Building, equipping ACO members with essential skills in organizational management, financial literacy, and leadership. The second one is Technical Skills Development, where the members receive specialized training in food production and service industries, followed by Sustainable Livelihood Projects and Income-Generating Projects (IGPs), wherein ACOs are guided in creating proposals that align with community needs and available funding opportunities.Another one is Team Building and Leadership Training. This aspect strengthens community cohesion and develops leadership skills through collaborative activities and training sessions.The last component is ACOs Community Outreach, addressing both immediate and long-term recovery needs in times of disasters.On December 4, CHUMSS faculty and students organized an outreach activity to help their adopted organizations recover from the Super Typhoon Pepito’s devastating effects, distributing generator sets funded by CHUMSS faculty and sacks of rice provided by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO). Photo credit: CHUMSS
Through Board Resolution No. 93, s. 2024, some changes have taken place for the Catanduanes State University’s office in charge of the promotion and implementation of cultural heritage programs. Started on November 6, 2024, the Center for Catandungan Heritage and the Arts, or CCHA as known by the CatSU community, became two separate offices: Center for Catandungan Heritage (CCH), and Center for Culture and Arts (CCA) - Hablon Dawani. Former CCHA Director Francis B. Tatel will now lead the CCH with focus on research and academic initiatives in heritage studies. This includes emerging fields such as Cognitive Humanities and Health Humanities. Operating under the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs, Director Tatel’s office will oversee the university museum, resource material collections, and organize seminars and conferences on culture and heritage.Meanwhile, the CCA-Hablon Dawani, will be led by Santos G. Sorra Jr. It aims to develop the artistic talents of CatSU students while preserving the Catandungan cultural heritage. The center will support various cultural arts groups, including the CatSU Hablon Dawani Performing and Visual Arts groups, Koro Hubilyo, Rondalla, and the Saliw Hangin Concert Band. Activities will include performances, exhibitions, and participation in local to international events, guided by CHED Memorandum Order No. 09 s. 2013.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) - Bicol recognized Prof. Maricel S. Cariaso, the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Manager and Alumni Relations Officer of Catanduanes State University (CatSU), as the Most Outstanding Job Placement Officer.Prof. Cariaso received the award during the 2024 PESO Year-End Performance Assessment held at Villa Caceres Hotel in Naga City, Camarines Sur on December 4, 2024. The event was attended by PESO managers and Job Placement Officers (JPO) from across Region 5. Joining Prof. Cariaso on stage during the awarding were Robert Andrei L. Cimbracruz (LEO III, Bureau of Local Employment), Marilyn L. Luzuriaga (TSSD Chief), Engr. Julie C. Manalang (Senior LEO, DOLE Catanduanes Provincial Office), Imelda F. Gatinao (Regional Director, DOLE Bicol), Eduardo C. Lovedorial (DOLE Catanduanes Provincial Head), Imelda E. Romanillos (Assistant Regional Director, DOLE Bicol), and Ryan Roberto E. Delos Reyes (Senior LEO, DOLE NCR).
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) has pledged its support to Gawad Kalinga’s (GK) initiative to mobilize youth volunteers for recovery efforts following the devastation of Super Typhoon Pepito. During a courtesy visit on December 6, 2024, GK Regional Director Marc Sebastian met with CatSU Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Atty. Septon A. de la Cruz, who affirmed the university’s commitment to join in the upcoming Bayani Challenge.Set to bring over 5,000 volunteers to Catanduanes between April and June 2025, the five-day event will focus on house-building, feeding programs, school repainting, coastal clean-ups, and other community-driven activities. Sebastian lauded the university’s support and recognized its role in rallying the local youth for bayanihan efforts.The non-government organization has already extended aid to the province through food pack donations, feeding programs, and school supply distributions in six barangays in Viga. GK also plans to establish the first-ever GK Community in Catanduanes, with 30 to 50 concrete homes slated for construction to benefit families most affected by the typhoon. "We are committed to helping Catanduanes rise again, and the support of institutions like CatSU strengthens our mission," Sebastian said.
