The construction of Catanduanes People’s Center inside the campus of the Catanduanes State University, which will serve as one-stop-shop for satellite offices of national agencies, is set to start this week. CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, represented by Executive Vice President Dr. Bernardino C. Abundo Jr., along with Congressman Eulogio ‘Leo’ Rodriguez, Department of Public Works and Highway (DPWH) Assistant District Engineer Max Eleda and other government officials, witnessed the groundbreaking ceremony for the P47 million project on Friday, August 11.“I remember the numerous times Cong. Leo Rodriguez and I met with Senator Francis Tolentino in the halls of Senate to seek budget for the People’s Center that shall rise inside CATSU to serve as a one-stop-shop for processing important documents needed to be able to study, work, travel, and for other purposes,” the president recounted on how it was started. “Surely, this is going to help many Catandunganons and I wish to congratulate Cong. Leo for having turned this into reality during his term of office,” he added.The said one-stop-shop facility in the island-province will help Catandunganons to efficiently secure pertinent documents from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for clearances, Philippine Regulation Commission (PRC) for identification cards and other certifications, and passports to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to name a few.It can be remembered that in 2022, CatSU offered at least 1,000 square meters of its lot under a usufruct agreement with the congressional office in order to house the facility. Joining also the event were Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs Engr. Benjamin Hannycel Nuyda, Philippine Information Agency - Catanduanes chief Edna Bagadiong, Radyo Pilipinas Station Manager Arlene O. Bagadiong, CatSU Information Officer Anjo G. Tugay, and other officials. #AGC
The tradition of excellence lives on as the Catanduanes State University - Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (CatSU-JPIA) bagged major awards in the National Federation of Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (NFJPIA) - Region V Council’s Year-End Awards (YEA) held at the Royal Emelina in Naga City on July 22, 2023.Garnering the highest points among the 14 participating State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), the CatSU-JPIA was hailed as the Most Outstanding Local Chapter across bicol for their consistent display of exemplary performance throughout the federation year 2022-2023.With their high-level commitment to conducting local chapter activities and active participation in regional and national activities, CatSU-JPIA was also conferred with the awards as the Most Active Local Chapter and Most Productive Local Chapter in the NFJPIA – Region V community.According to CatSU-JPIA President Darcy Rinsfer B. Tabor, who also won the Most Outstanding Local Chapter President, the key to winning these awards was the members’ commitment to fulfilling their duties and responsibilities as JPIA officers, underscoring their willingness to explore and carry out the organization’s projects.He likewise commended the university’s all-out support when it comes to implementing their projects and letting them participate in various regional and national activities, which became their edge over other JPIA local chapters.“The university’s support became our edge among the different local chapters. They allowed us to participate in different opportunities and activities in this federation year whereas others are somewhat strict and did not allow them to participate. ”“This only show that CatSU and CatSU-JPIA can keep up or even become more productive, progressive, and competitive despite the prestige and calibers of different colleges and universities,” Tabor added.Recognizing the legacy left by the previous federation officers of JPIA-CatSU, Tabor reflected on how it inspired his current administration to remain dedicated to bringing honor to the university and to continue the legacy of CatSU-JPIA.“As the president of JPIA-CatSU, I always tell my officers to stand firm to their sworn duties and responsibilities, explore, and expand our networks to preserve and continue the legacy of JPIA-CatSU… These awards reflect how the previous federation officers of JPIA-CatSU made an impact on the dedication and commitment of this year’s federation officers, advisers, and members,” Tabor recounted.
Following his lecture about Catanduanes Component of the Bikol Multilingual Corpus at Catanduanes State University (CatSU) on June 26, 2023, Bikolano linguist and Ph.D. student-researcher from the University of Hawai’i, Manoa, Louward Allen Zubiri encouraged language faculty members from CatSU to contribute to the Bicol Multilingual Corpus (BMC) Project, the largest corpus of child-directed and child speech in any Philippine language. According to Zubiri, faculty-participants from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUMSS) and College of Education (COEd) can build the Northern Catanduanes subcorpora by focusing on the varieties on the northern part of the island and investigating the intergenerational transmission through documentation of the input to and output of multilingual Bikolano children. Through this community-driven initiative, faculty members will be capacitated to conduct their own research on the Catandunganon Bikol language using various linguistic approaches, further strengthening CatSU’s advocacy in promoting inclusivity and language diversity on the island through community-based research. Upon the project’s completion, the BMC will serve as a model for combining language acquisition and documentation techniques to study the language development and use of emergent multilingual children. The Hawai’i-based linguist likewise pledged to come back to the island next year to conduct a seminar-workshop on language documentation and its methodologies. Zubiri was invited to serve as the speaker on the above-cited lecture which was spearheaded by the CatSU Research and Development Services (RDS) in collaboration with the Center for International Relations and Continuing Professional Development Services (CIRCPDS). Presently, he is also a Visiting Research Fellow for Summer 2023 at his alma mater school, UP Diliman, where he completed his BA and MA in Linguistics.
For 25-year-old Engr. Divina V. Gonzales, acing the 6th spot in the Master Plumbers Licensure Examination (MPLE) was not easy, defying all odds to achieve greatness as a full-time structural engineer while self-reviewing for the board examination.But through her hard work and perseverance, the cum laude civil engineering graduate of the Catanduanes State University turned the impossible into possible after the results of the July 2023 MPLE unfolded, and was still in utter disbelief.Raised in Hawan Grande, in the capital town of Virac, this young achiever attained a rating of 85.70 percent and bested 5,107 other examinees across the country. “Hanggang ngayon ‘di pa rin ako makapaniwala dahil kaonti po ‘yong oras ko sa review at sinabay ko po ‘iyon sa trabaho. May mga tanong na ‘di ko na-encounter during self-review,” Gonzales shared in an interview.“Pero sobrang saya ko kasi knowing na nagbunga ‘yong pinaghirapan ko, kahit maraming beses ako pinanghinaan ng loob. Ipinagpatuloy ko lang para sa sarili at pamilya ko,” she added.Chartering a different pathUnlike many aspiring master plumbers who join review centers, Engr. Gonzales decided to take a different route. With her full-time job, she undertook a self-review journey.“Pagkatapos ng office hours, pagod na physically at mentally, ‘di na po ako nakaka-review nang maayos. Wala rin akong maayos na space para mag-review dahil may mga kasama po ako sa staffhouse at lights off na usually ng 10-11 p.m., kaya nagbabasa na lang po ako ng reviewer sa phone,” she shared.But drawing inspiration from her parents’ struggle in raising five children, the daughter of a surveyor and a housewife persisted in achieving her ultimate goal.“Nakita ko ‘yong hirap nila para makapag-aral kaming magkakapatid. Gusto ko lang po silang mabigyan ng mas maayos na buhay. Ang sarap lang po sa pakiramdam na nakakatulong na ako sa kanila,” Gonzales said. Mapping out opportunitiesDuring her five years stay at CatSU after graduation in 2019, the native Viracnon not only excelled in academics but also in off-campus competitions, learning to always enter a door of opportunities.“As CatSU student, you have to make the most out of every opportunity na binibigay sayo. Ilang beses din ako nabigyan ng chance para i-represent ang CatSU sa iba’t ibang contest, at dahil dito na-invite ako ng isang review center upang bigyan ng free review for civil engineering board exam kasama na lodging,” she recounted. One of the contests she joined with flying colors was the 37th National Civil Engineering Students Quiz as a grand finalist, after notching first place at the regional level.Her achievement did not end after graduation, falling short of only two points to the Top 1o spot at the National level, she attained an incredible rating of 89.35% during the November licensure examination for civil engineers. Setting wise cues Imparting advice to fellow CatSUans to pass and even top the board exam, Engr. Gonzales shared some important tips to follow: study routine, possess self-discipline, take care of one’s health, focus, and avoid distractions.“Be consistent and make studying a habit. Kailangan sanayin ang sarili sa pagsagot ng exams sa reviewers para pagdating ng actual na board exam ‘di ka na mabibigla at medyo confident ka nang sumagot,” Gonzales stated.“Gumawa ka ng sarili mong schedule at magbigay ng extra effort para masundan ito. Make studying easier. Hindi mo kailangang kabisaduhin lahat ng nasa reviewer word by word. Puwede kang gumawa ng patterns and mnemonics, or i-relate mo sa ibang bagay ‘yong inaaral mo,” she added. Also, the master plumber topnotcher advised the takers to avoid distractions and always set priorities.“Magpahinga rin nang tama sa oras at alagaan ang katawan. Balewala lahat ng aral mo kung magkakasakit ka sa mismong araw ng exam,” Engr. Gonzales added. With her unwavering spirit, Engr. Gonzales has proven that she is not just a master plumber but a master of life's extraordinary journey. She has now etched her name in the records of CatSU’s historical feats and serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring engineers, especially for young women, for taking the uncharted path and now standing with pride in the middle of a less traveled road. #AGC
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) made headlines as a trailblazer in green, inclusive, and sustainable development, with the groundbreaking of the first Knowledge, Innovation, Science and Technology (KIST) park in the Bicol region.The initiative was driven by CatSU President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, who actively advocated for the project's approval from the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), working closely with Governor Joseph "Boboy" C. Cua and the then Director General Charito "Ching" B. Plaza.PEZA Director General Tereso "Teo" O. Panga played a crucial role in providing essential information at the national level, ensuring the success of the endeavor with the full support of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos.On May 25, 2023, the groundbreaking ceremony for the KIST Park and agro-industrial processing zone took place, marking a significant milestone in CatSU's history. This is considered major milestone at CatSU, as these KIST Park and agro-industrial processing zone exemplify model economic zones that prioritize environmentally conscious and sustainable practices.The projects will utilize idle lands at CatSU, mobilizing cooperation among farmers, non-government organizations, business chambers, scientists, researchers, and key players in the information technology and agro-sector supply chains.The conversion of idle lands of CatSU into a KIST Park and Agro-Industrial Economic Zone will potentially change the future of the whole province of Catanduanes and benefit its 263,000 residents. The projects are projected to bring in a total of P1.55 billion in investments, promising a significant boost to the local economy.
Master Plumbers Licensure Examination (MPLE) 6th Placer Engr. Divina V. Gonzales receives her P100,000 cash incentive and a certificate from Catanduanes State University (CatSU), through President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, along with Gonzales’ parents and Radyo Pilipinas - Catanduanes Station Manager Arlene O. Bagadiong today, August 7. “Dakulang tabang ini sa samong pamilya and para sa mga ma-take ning board exam mag-adal ning patanos para igwang balik,” Engr. Gonzales said in an interview at Radyo Pilipinas. Joining her daughter to receive the cash incentive, Vilma V. Gonzales, the mother of the topnotcher, extended her gratitude to the university and recognized the effort of Dr. Azanza as this was the first-time in the university’s history to grant a P100,000 cash incentive to a board topnotcher. “Gapasalamat ning dakula buda pareho ning aki, dae man ako makapaniwala sa inot na nag-topnotcher siya,” Engr. Gonzales’ mother shared.With a rating of 85.70%, Engr. Gonzales, 25, bested 5,107 other examinees and made it to the list of topnotchers as announced by the Professional Regulation Commission on July 19, 2023.
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.
Through the joint efforts between the Catanduanes State University (CatSU), University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) and other stakeholders, various projects involving rice component, livestock/dairy, and AgroForestry were presented during the launching of the Panganiban Rural and Agricultural Development Project on June 28, 2023. Following the launching, Dr. Renato Vega from the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and a UP Los Baños professor, gave a lecture and distributed a sample of 20 rice varieties to the rice farmer-participants. Dr. Liborio S. Cabanilla, executive director of the UPLB College of Economics and Management Alumni Foundation, Inc. extended his gratitude to CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza for accepting the invitation to implement the project at Panganiban Campus. “As the premier Agricultural Educational Institution in the community, CatSU is seen as a vital partner in achieving the project's objectives,” he expressed.Among the other stakeholder partners was the Panganiban Local Government Unit (LGU), and the partnership aims to drive sustainable rural and agricultural development in the island-province.The event featured presentations outlining the project components and delineating the specific responsibilities of each partner. Following a short program, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding was held between the community stakeholders involved, symbolizing their strong commitment to the pursuit of empowering the local communities and paving the way for a vibrant agricultural sector in Panganiban.
Organized by the College of Industrial Technology (CIT) Dean, Dr. Edwin Romero, a playing coach himself, in collaboration with Catanduanes Lawn Tennis Club (CLTC), the clinic saw an impressive turnout of budding tennis enthusiasts and concluded with success during the awarding ceremony, August 3, 2023, at the new CatSU Sports Complex.The 2-week free lawn tennis clinic, which started on June 15, 2023, was joined by a total of 23 children and young adults in this event sponsored by the CLTC, with members based in different parts of the world.CLTC President, Ms. Francez Khu Camacho, said they selected the participants to provide them free training in basic tennis strokes, game scoring and ballboy basics.“This is part of our advocacies, to discover young tennis players with potential, and help them qualify in the basic training course, proceed to the advance course,” she remarked.Dean Romero echoed and shared that having such clinic sessions are an important way to test the players’ mettle after learning from instructors.“Ang pinaka goal po talaga is paramihin ang mga batang tenista sa Catanduanes, para hindi tayo maubusan ng supply ng mga tennis players sa isla na pwedeng ilaban sa mga competitions outside the province like Bicol Meet, SCUAA, Bicol Open, and even National tournaments.”CatSU president, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, whom the tennis clinic was named after, graced the event along with the participants’ parents. He was also joined by lawn tennis veteran player, Ms. Dirma T. Frias, and Dr. Rudy Tablizo, the University’s Sports Director.The event recognized the outstanding achievements of the young athletes across three brackets: Beginners A and B Tournament, and Advanced Tournament.Dexter Tel emerged as the champion in Beginners A, while Merrydel Ann Santos secured the top spot in Beginners B. In the Advanced Tournament, Liezle Gonzales demonstrated exceptional talent, claiming the title.In his message during the ceremony, Dr. Azanza commended the participants for their dedication and commitment to the sport.“What we need is not only mind, but a healthy body because overall, health is more than wealth. Being active into sports, is kadakulang bagay na mababalanse in order to have a holistic development – Better start it right, to put us in the right path.”Further, Dr. Azanza thanked all the sponsors, Dr. Stephen Bagadiong, and the parents for the full support and efforts, forward-looking for victories in the future sports events. “We look forward to the time to have champions not just in the region, but also at the national level,” the President said in closing.
Virac, Catanduanes - The College of Industrial Technology (CIT), a historically male-dominated unit at Catanduanes State University (CatSU), has experienced a striking upward trajectory in female enrollment over the past six academic years. The figures, spanning from the AY 2017-2018 to 2022-2023, reveal a compelling story of expanding gender diversity. As far back as the AY 2017-2018, male students held a significant majority at 77.01% in CIT, with 536 male students compared to a mere 160 female students. However, over the subsequent years, the gender gap has consistently narrowed. Female enrollment increased to 24.21% in AY 2018-2019, rose further to 29.09% in AY 2019-2020, and reached an impressive 35.80% in AY 2020-2021. Although it slightly dipped to 30.96% in AY 2021-2022, the most recent school year recorded a female enrollment of 29.20% The turning point came in AY 2020-2021 when female enrollment surpassed 35%, totaling 397, while male enrollment stood at 712. This pivotal moment showcases the growing interest and confidence of young women in pursuing education in fields that were once perceived as predominantly male-centric. The upsurge in female enrollment can be attributed to several factors, including the University’s efforts to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for all students, irrespective of gender. Additionally, a rising awareness of gender equality in the province, along with the dismantling of traditional barriers in workplaces, has encouraged more women to express interest in fields that were historically male dominated. Dean Dr. Edwin T. Romero expressed delight at the changing demographics within the college, stating, “It’s wonderful to witness this positive shift in enrollment. We are committed to nurturing talent and providing equal opportunities for all our students. Seeing young women pursuing ladderized degrees in electronics, drafting, mechanical, and automotive technologies, as well as BS in Architecture, is not only a sign of progress but also an indicator of the bright future ahead.” As CIT continues to display improving gender diversity and inclusivity, “We hope to positively impact the campus culture. For instance, women are known to be detail-oriented, and I hope our male students can see the value in that. Likewise, our female students should not be afraid to embrace hands-on experiences to earn a living,” commented Gender and Development Focal Person Melinda Abichuela, emphasizing the importance of sharing skills between genders. CatSU President Patrick Alain T. Azanza is positive that this trend will continue and highlights the need for gender-responsive facilities. “The substantial increase in female enrollment in traditionally male-dominated colleges and vice versa expands opportunities for everyone. We are happy with this development, as it signifies equal representation of genders, empowerment of marginalized sectors, and the involvement of diverse ideas. In response to this emerging trend, we must prepare our facilities, such as providing more laboratories and automated machines that cater to the differences in physical characteristics of genders.” CatSU administration remains firmly committed to achieving gender equality, extending efforts to address gender gaps in other colleges like Engineering, Education, and Health Sciences. This remarkable surge in female enrollment at CIT reflects a positive shift towards greater gender equality in academia. As the University continues its dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, the hope is for this trend to spread across other disciplines, driving the transformation towards a more equitable and diverse academic landscape.Ms. Reashiela L. Khan GMMS Focal Person
More than 60 Catandunganon youth leaders have come together at the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Auditorium for the ‘Local Youth Assembly’ to exchange ideas, foster collaboration for civic engagement, and strengthen participation in Democratic Governance.Organized by Siklab Pilipinas, in collaboration with the Local Youth Development Office of Catanduanes, USAID, The Asia Foundation, CatSU, and other stakeholders, the one-day forum united a diverse group of passionate youth leaders from different organizations throughout the province. As a former youth leader himself, during his time as chairman of the University of the Philippines - Los Baños (UPLB) Student Council, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza threw his full support to the activity and looked forward to the Catandunganon youths’ participation. “I hope that the youth from the island province of Catanduanes will actively participate in identifying and exemplifying the importance of youth leadership and civic engagement in addressing pressing community issues,” Dr. Azanza said in a video message on Tuesday, August 1. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗯𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀As the keynote speaker in the kick-off ceremony of the activity, Gov. Joseph C. Cua, represented by Sangguniang Bayan Secretary Susan Isidoro, recognized the activity as a transformative platform that enables the Catandunganon youth to engage in youth-led initiatives. “Always remember, the youth are not passive bystanders; rather, you actively shape the world you desire,” the governor stated. Meanwhile, introducing the goal and objectives of YouthLed, Senior Youth Leadership Development Specialist Emil Tapnio discussed the various programs and activities of the organization, which involve leadership development, coalition-building, and civic education and engagement. Following the opening program, Gemar Moreno, the moderator, facilitated a discussion with the dynamic speakers: Legal Assistant Officer James Nathaniel Refugio, from Naga City Planning and Development Office, and Sagguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation President of Sipocot, Masbate Mary May Loria. 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗱Believing in the power of youth, Refugio urged the youth participants to challenge the status quo and be agents to solve the long-standing problems of their communities. “We are called to serve and live beyond,” he added.A series of focused-group discussions followed, which tackled on understanding the various issues in the community; sharing youths’ learning experiences; and the journey of an empowered community leader. Taking part also at the event were CatSU student affair’s newly appointed Director Francis John B. Templonuevo, who extended his gratitude to the organizer for taking the lead to empower young leaders in the province; Siklab Pilipinas Consultant Samantha Sadorra; National Youth Commission Commissioner Reena Pineda, who expressed her full support through a video message; and other YouthLed officials, together with the facilitators.
