Catanduanes State University (CatSU) athletes shined in the 2025 Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA) Games, hauling 88 medals—20 gold, 38 silver, and 30 bronze—marking a major leap from last season’s 13-gold tally. Battling against eight other Bicol universities, CatSU clinched 5th place overall in the meet, held from February 17 to 21 at Camarines Norte State College. Kudos to our athletes, coaches, and staff for this stellar run!
In a tribute to National Arts Month, a poetry writeshop titled Balhag: Pagsulat ng mga Akdang Nakaugat sa Danas ng Komunidad was held on February 20, 2025, at the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Little Theater, sharpening the literary craft of participants through community-rooted storytelling. Mounted by the Sentro ng Wika at Kulturang Filipino (SWKF) in tandem with the Center for Culture and Arts - Hablon Dawani (CCA) and Virac-based Aklat Ulagad, the session pulled in aspiring poets eager to refine their voices. Dr. Allan C. Popa, renowned writer, author, and editor, urged participants to mine their communities for poetic material, asserting that the most resonant narratives often emerge from lived experiences. He pressed writers to embrace the depth of local culture, to reinforce the power of intimate, place-based storytelling. Attendees sharpened their skills through guided writing exercises, with select participants stepping forward to deliver their freshly penned works before the audience. CCA-Hablon Dawani Director Santos G. Sorra Jr. kicked off the event, while Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs Dr. Rosana S. Abundo extended institutional support in a brief message. Capping the session, SWKF Director Dr. Jovert R. Balunsay commended the participants and lauded Popa for steering the conversation toward a deeper appreciation of community-driven poetry.
“Let’s make it happen. Let’s make it Bicol.” This was the challenge posed by CHED Regional Director Dr. Demetrio P. Anduyan Jr., CESO III, as he urged student journalists to dominate the Luzon-wide Higher Education Press Conference (LHEPC). Speaking at the opening of the 22nd Regional Tertiary Schools Press Conference (RTSPC) at Catanduanes State University (CatSU), Anduyan rallied the 416 participants from 33 student publications to sharpen their craft and take responsibility for their influence. “We have this RTSPC as we wish to add more to the reservoir of talents in our region—more presentable and confident personalities with the ability to write and present information accurately and concisely,” he stressed. Anduyan, a former TESDA provincial director in Catanduanes, praised the record turnout, noting that Bicol’s participation had tripled compared to other regional press conferences. He challenged the campus scribes to push the region to the top, declaring that five of the ten best LHEPC winners should come from Bicol. “Be a good influencer,” he urged, reminding student journalists to uphold truth and public welfare in their writing. The RTSPC, co-hosted by the Association of Tertiary Schools Publication Advisers of Bicol, Inc. (ATSPAB), features competitions in individual and group journalism categories. The top five winners in each event, along with the champion in Radio Script Writing and Broadcasting, will advance to LHEPC in Lucban, Quezon, from April 2 to 4.
Political Science team from Catanduanes State University (CatSU) ruled the 2nd Bicol Political Science Consortium on February 21-22, 2025, at the University of Nueva Caceres, Naga City, beating teams from Ateneo de Naga University, Bicol College, the University of Northeastern Philippines, the University of Saint Anthony, and the host UNC. Czymon Balmadrid, Mikayla Soliveres, and Joshua Cariño topped the Politica Scientia Quiz Bee, while Aira Suplig seized 2nd place in Extemporaneous Speech. The 31-member team, led by Asst. Prof. Kristine Anne Razal and PSS Adviser Mr. Jobesan Yusores, also joined forums with lawyer-speakers, including senatorial aspirant Atty. Luke Espiritu, tackling elections, human rights, and political dynasties. During their courtesy call to OIC President Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., he praised their wins and hailed the Political Science Society’s role in pushing CatSU’s mark of excellence. The team also set plans with OIC Barba for CatSU’s bid to host next year’s meet, which would raise the program’s name across Bicol. With report from Mr. Jobesan Yusores
Inaugurated on June 28, 2024, the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) College of Law officially became a member of the Philippine Association of Law Schools (PALS) when Dean Atty. Santiago T. Gabionza Jr. and Associate Dean Atty. Gregorio M. Sarmiento Jr. represented the institution and joined the 2025 PALS Annual Convention. The CatSU-College of Law was one of the law schools in the country that received an invitation letter dated November 29, 2024, from PALS President Teodoro A. Pastrana for the event, recognizing its successful membership application to the organization. In collaboration with the Legal Education Board (LEB), the three-day in-person convention brought together law school deans, assistant deans, and professors from across the country to exchange insights, share best practices, and strengthen partnerships between PALS and LEB. Notable speakers included Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo, Associate Justice Amy C. Lazaro-Javier, chairperson of the 2025 Bar Examinations, and Associate Justice Mario V. Lopez, chairperson of the 2024 Bar Examinations. With the theme "Excellence in Legal Education: Transforming Society through LEB-PALS Collaboration," the convention took place from January 20 to 22, 2025, at the Park Inn by Radisson Clark, Clark Freeport Zone, Mabalacat City, Pampanga.
Creativity thrived at Catanduanes State University as CatSU and the Catanduanes Provincial Police Office (CatPPO) launched Women’s Month with a creative crafts workshop, March 5, 2025 at the CatSU Extension Training Hall. Over 80 policewomen and non-uniformed personnel teamed up in crochet, card making, corsage crafting, and certificate holder production. Dr. Rosana S. Abundo, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs, stood in for Officer-in-Charge Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., who is attending the 2025 SUC first quarter governing meeting in Marikina. She lauded the CatSU-CatPPO partnership, citing its personal and professional impact on participants. CatPPO Provincial Director PCol Edward D. Quijano, through his representative, pushed the event’s aim to spark creativity, resilience, and resourcefulness among CatPPO’s women personnel. He also linked this year’s theme, “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,” to a vision of inclusive progress. The College of Industrial Technology led the workshop, with Extension Coordinator Jade Jean P. Uchi and CIT Indigenous Creative Crafts Manager Jeiscelle Tomagan steering the activities. Tomagan pointed out that the certificate holder-making activity supports local abaca farmers by using abaca-based materials.
The latest Uswag Journal: Philippine Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (Vol. 2, Issue 2, July – December 2024) is now available on the Catanduanes State University website, featuring twice the number of research articles from its previous issue. Submitted by Research and Development Services (RDS) Director Dr. Jose Z. Tria, the journal presents 10 peer-reviewed studies across various fields, each rigorously reviewed, revised, and finalized by experts. Uswag, meaning “development,” serves as CatSU’s official research journal. Indexed in the Philippine E-Journals (PEJ) since 2024, it ensures wider global access. Visit this link https://catsu.edu.ph/uswag.php
Welcoming new sponsors and honoring outgoing batch, the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) staged the Presentation of Sponsors and Escorts this morning, March 11, at the Front Grounds of the CatSU Administrative Building. Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., CatSU Officer-in-Charge, fired up over 400 cadets with his speech, recalling his days as a CAT battalion commander at Catanduanes National High School. He shared his dream of joining the military but was barred by height limits, noting that destiny takes its own path. “Today, I may not be standing here as a soldier, but as the Officer-in-Charge of this university, leading a different kind of mission—one that builds future leaders, instills discipline, and nurtures service-oriented individuals like you,” Dr. Barba said. He pinned on the impact of ROTC beyond drills and commands and its role in shaping discipline, grit, and leadership. He challenged cadets to value time, noting that in ROTC, “there is no ‘Filipino time’—only ‘military time.’” Dr. Barba stressed true leadership, saying real leaders earn respect rather than demand it. Addressing the Sponsors and Escorts, he commended them as pillars of support, strength, and excellence in ROTC. “You are more than just the faces of this occasion. You represent the values of ROTC—the grace in discipline, the strength in leadership, and the commitment to excellence,” he asserted. Closing his speech, Dr. Barba left cadets with a message on service and character. “In life, it doesn’t matter how tall you are. What matters is how high your dreams reach,” he declared. “Yes, I was 5’3, and yes, I didn’t make it to the military. But did that stop me from serving? No. Because true service is not defined by height—it is defined by heart.”
“Your classroom will be a microcosm of the world," Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Officer-in-Charge laid bare the realities of teaching before student-interns at BEED Mentoring Program, March 12 at the gymnasium. Speaking to Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEED) interns deployed in public schools, Dr. Barba urged them to embrace both the joys and struggles of the profession—balancing lesson plans, managing diverse learners, handling workplace dynamics, and shouldering unexpected responsibilities. “Minsan, mapapatanong ka rin: ‘Pinili ko ba ito o pinili ako nito?’” he quipped, drawing laughter from the audience. As a father of three, Dr. Barba likened teaching to parenting, saying educators shape not just academic knowledge but also values and character. He reminded the interns that every classroom mirrors the larger world, where they will face challenges requiring both adaptability and compassion. “Teaching is beyond textbooks. It’s about understanding your students, responding to their needs, and preparing them for the real world,” he said. He also gave a candid glimpse into school realities—handling parent-teacher relationships, managing professional dynamics with colleagues and superiors, and handling the inevitable pressures of the job. He ended with a call for resilience, reminding them that teaching demands both intellect and heart. “Kung may pagkakataong mapagod, magpahinga pero huwag sumuko.” The BEED Mentoring Program is spearheaded by the College of Education with its Dean Dr. Maria Sheila R. Gregorio and Teacher Education Chairperson Dr. Edna A. Pante. The program continues to equip student-interns with firsthand insights from experienced mentors who are alumni of the university.
A blood donation drive on March 8 at the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Gymnasium yielded 150 bags, totaling 67,500cc of blood, in a daylong activity led by the 503rd Community Defense Center. Lt. Col. Josephus Emar M. Rempillo, director of the 503rd CDC, said the initiative is part of their sustained efforts as Citizen Army Builders, working alongside line government agencies, local government units, and volunteer groups to extend essential services to Catandunganons. In a letter dated March 13 to CatSU OIC Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., Rempillo commended the university’s support in providing critical resources and logistics for the event. He assured their continued commitment to similar undertakings in the province.
San Andres Hall of Justice opened its doors to the pioneer law students of Catanduanes State University College of Law (CatSU-COL) for a court observation under Hon. Judge Catherine A. Baldos of the San Andres Municipal Trial Court, March 12, 2025. The students sat in on a pre-trial hearing, in real courtroom proceedings as part of their Civil Procedure course. Judge Baldos lauded their eagerness to grasp court protocols and witness cases at their pre-trial stages.
“Please do not argue with someone’s suicidal thoughts, just listen,” advised Dr. Rucelle C. Zuniega, head of the Eastern Bicol Medical Center (EBMC) Psychiatric Unit, during a mental health awareness seminar for College of Education (COEd) students on February 5, 2025. She emphasized the importance of allowing individuals to express their distress without judgment. “Encourage them to talk and truly listen,” she urged, reminding students never to leave someone feeling suicidal alone and to check on them regularly. For those experiencing psychosis, substance abuse, or severe distress, she recommended seeking emergency assistance immediately. If help is delayed, she suggested taking the person to a safe space like in a church. Supporting this, Rev. Fr. Nestor ‘Butch’ R. Buena encouraged students to bring individuals with suicidal thoughts to church for spiritual counseling. “Spirituality connects us to ourselves, to others, and to God,” he said, sharing his experiences in guiding those struggling. Organized by COED Guidance Service, the seminar also tackled depression where Mr. Noly T. Benavides, head of the university’s Guidance, Counseling, and Testing Office, described it as a serious medical condition and the leading cause of disability among American adults. He clarified that depression is often mistaken for sadness, highlighting biological factors such as genetics, hormones, and brain function. Before concluding, Dr. Zuniega left the participants, together with the COEd faculty, with a powerful reminder: “Remember that despite your best efforts, some people will still die by suicide. However, always do your best for the person you are helping.” The event was originally scheduled in October 2024 but was postponed and rescheduled due to typhoon.
After successfully hosting the Division Schools Press Conference for elementary and secondary journalists last January, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) is now gearing up to host the Regional Tertiary Schools Press Conference (RTSPC) on February 26–28, 2025. Co-hosted with the Association of Tertiary Schools Publication Advisers of Bicol Inc. (ATSPAB), led by President Dr. Rafael V. Oñate, the event's opening and closing ceremonies will take place at Rakdell Inn in San Pedro, Virac. Meanwhile, some participants will be accommodated at Gab’s Place, a resort in Barangay Pajo San Isidro, Virac, according to Dr. Jovert R. Balunsay, adviser of The CatSU Statesman, the official student publication of the university. Dr. Balunsay assured that preparations are well underway, covering logistics, venue arrangements, certificates, and stage decorations. The Office of Student Affairs and Development Services (OSADS), headed by Director Ma. Nena V. Masagca, is overseeing logistical preparations, including coordinating the use of CatSU buses to transport participants between venues. An ocular inspection of the sites was conducted on January 21 in collaboration with ATSPAB. The opening ceremony is expected to be attended by CatSU’s Officer-in-Charge, Dr. Roberto B. Barba, Jr., along with key officials from Local Government Units. RTSPC is an annual gathering of campus journalists from private and public higher education institutions across the Bicol region. Participants will compete in various individual and group events, including news writing, editorial writing, and radio broadcasting to name a few. Photo: Dr. Jovert R. Balunsay
Catanduanes State University paddler Arci Marin clinched silver in the Table Tennis Men’s Singles A category at the Regional SCUAA Games on February 19, 2025, at Camarines Norte State College. Marin fought hard but fell 0-2 to a National SCUAA player from Bicol University in the finals. Despite the loss, he took pride in bringing home a medal and testing his skills against a national-caliber opponent. “Masaya pa rin kahit natalo dahil naiuwi ko ang silver at nakalaro ko National SCUAA player. Ginawa ko lang ‘yong best ko,” he said. Marin trains under Coach Pastor Mendez.
With the theme “Unto the Centerfold: Shaping Stories in the Shine of Catandunganon Faith and Fortitude,” the conference highlighted the vital role of campus journalism in promoting truth and accountability. CatSU Officer-in-Charge Dr. Roberto B. Barba, Jr. warmly welcomed the student scribes and coaches and emphasized the importance of honesty and fairness in journalism. “As student journalists, your work bridges the gap between facts and understanding. The battle for truth does not end with machines; it begins and ends with us,” he said, addressing the challenges posed by misinformation and disinformation. Meanwhile, for LabSchools Principal Joerandy C. Tablizo, this year’s theme reflects deeply within every Catandunganon’s heart. “As this reminds us that the stories we tell, the narrative we weave, have the power to inspire, to inform, and to uplift us,” the host school principal expressed. This 2025 DSPC keynote speaker, Bea Jerika J. Amador, content editor of Greenpeace International, shared also her journey from campus journalist to professional writer. She urged students to step out of their comfort zones, ask critical questions, and seek the truth. “To everyone here, go out of your comfort zone, ask more questions, and always seek truth. Do not stop when the information is given to you, ask questions, like the systems we have,” Amador said. “We live in a country where democracy is always challenged. You have the opportunity to challenge what is happening and make a better system for you. The world that you are building now is going to be the world you will live in,” she added. Schools Division Superintendent Cecile C. Ferro also expressed during the opening ceremony the Department of Education’s commitment in nurturing students’ potential through values and competencies that contribute to nation-building. Joining the opening ceremony were Education Program Supervisor and Division Campus Journalism In-Charge Dr. Gina B. Pantino and other key officials from DepEd-Catanduanes and CatSU. The 2025 division press conference will feature various contests, including individual writing events, group events for TV broadcasting, radio broadcasting, collaborative publishing (desktop and online), and school paper category, running until January 19, 2025.
To guide the “would-be workers” on their rights at work and responsibilities, the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) organized a one-day Pre-Internship and Labor Education Seminar among fourth-year students from the College of Agriculture and Fisheries (CAF) on January 20, 2025. Graced by CatSU Officer-in-Charge Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., the former CAF dean noted the seminar's crucial role in preparing students for careers. The seminar featured two sessions: in the morning, Atty. Pamela Joy T. Herrera-Sanchez provided a comprehensive discussion of significant laws addressing sexual harassment, including the Safe Spaces Act, the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act, and the Violence Against Women and Children Act. Meanwhile, in the afternoon session, Senior Labor Employment Officer Danilo B. Balilo from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) provided an overview of the labor code's salient provisions. Director of CatSU Alumni Office and PESO Manager Associate Professor Maricel S. Cariaso, presented to the participants the National Skills Registration Program, emphasizing the program’s objective of improving employment facilitation services and providing up-to-date labor market information. The event, with the theme "Equipping Future CAF Professionals: Bridging Academia and Industry", was also attended by CAF Dean Dr. Michael Owen P. Malijan, CAF faculty, and other key university officials, held at the CatSU Gymnasium.
