In a joint effort to promote social responsibility, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) has partnered with the Virac Medical Clinic and Diagnostic Center (VMDC) to offer incoming students a valuable benefit of a 5% discount on a comprehensive service package, encompassing essential medical tests such as chest x-rays, complete blood counts (CBC), and drug tests at VMDC.These medical tests are crucial components of the enrollment process for incoming first-year students at CatSU. Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza personally announced this partnership through his Facebook page. The collaboration came to fruition after successful negotiations between CatSU and VMDC.Dr. Azanza emphasized the significance of this discount, acknowledging its positive impact on students and, notably, their parents. Availing of the discount is a straightforward process; students need only inform the cashier at VMDC about their status as incoming CatSU students.This collaboration further solidifies CatSU's commitment to its students, employees, and alumni. The university has established agreements with various businesses across the island, ensuring they also enjoy similar discounts on products and services simply by presenting their CatSU ID.By fostering such partnerships, CatSU continues to demonstrate its dedication to the welfare and support of its educational community, reinforcing its position as a beacon of learning and progress in the region. #CIV
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza led the turnover of 150 packs of assorted vegetable seeds to the Provincial Local Government of Catanduanes on Tuesday, July 25, 2023.The said seeds, comprised of upo, ampalaya, cucumber, and pole sitaw, were donated to CatSU by the University of the Philippines Los Baños' Institute of Plant Breeding through Ms. Virma Rea G. Lee, University Researcher II and Head of the Extension and Business Development Division.This green initiative aligns with the President's vision of promoting sustainable agriculture not only within the campus but throughout the province. It can be remembered that one of his advocacy campaigns is the One Million Trees Project as the adviser of the Catanduanes Clean and Green Movement. #AGC Photos Credit to PLGU Catanduanes
Inscribed with the slogan ‘HOPE resides in the Happy Island’, the Catanduanes State University unveils the donated air-conditioned bus from Bicol Isarog Transport System Inc. during the blessing and turnover ceremony today, July 22.Witnessing the ceremonial turnover, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, together with Mr. Bonifacio Brian Cu, extended his gratitude to Bicol Isarog."Dakulang tabang ini para sa mga estudyante lalo so mga ga-join sa contest," the president said.When Dr. Azanza asked the student-attendees in the ceremony if they were happy about the donated bus, the students loudly cheered, ‘Yes!’.Dr. Gemma G. Acedo, Vice President for Academic Affairs, implored the students to take care of the said donation."After so long, magkakaigwa na naman kita ning bus, kaya alagaan ta, pahalagahan ta," the vice president stated.Meanwhile, Mr. Cu was glad to help and grateful for the university’s contribution to their company, especially in manpower since they have employees who are products of CatSU.It can be recalled that Dr. Azanza requested an air-conditioned bus unit from Mr. Brian Cu of Bicol Isarog on April 20 this year during his visit, along with Engr. Hechanova at the Office of the President. He also expressed his profound gratitude to Gov. Joseph “Boboy” Cua for all the help extended in securing the requested unit.The blessing was presided over by Rev. Father Eric John T. Rojas,and among the present were Dr. Kristian Q. Aldea, OIC Vice President for Research, Extension and Production Affairs (REPA), Mr. Robert Cabilao,and Engr. Romel Hechanova, HR consultants from Bicol Isarog, and the College of Industrial Technology (CIT) Dean, Dr. Edwin T. Romero, represented by Prof. Jonathan B. Capsa.
In collaboration with Catanduanes State University – Extension Services (CatSU-ES) and Philippine Coconut Authority, Grameen Foundation USA, Inc. (GFUSA) organized a one-day assessment and closeout meeting along with the beneficiaries of the Farmer-to-Farmer (F2F) Cocos Program on Friday, July 21.With the technical assistance provided by the foundation to capacitate Catandunganon farmers, the seven Coconut Farmer Organizations shared their insights and lessons learned during the implementation of the program particularly in the aspect of financial management.Acknowledging the university’s steadfast commitment and support to the project, Regional Director in Asia and the Pacific Christine Jeanne G. Violago gladly expressed that CatSU is ‘the only state university’ that they have been ‘very successful’ and will now serve as their benchmark to enter other state college or university. GFUSA is a non-profit registered organization that aims to empower the poor, especially women, and eradicate poverty as well as hunger. It ties up with CatSU through a Memorandum of Understanding in 2021 with a mission of promoting sustainable agricultural productivity and profitability initiatives. #AC
Serving as an accessible and strategic venue, Catanduanes State University (CatSU), through its auditorium, accommodated for free over 2,000 Catandunganons who availed the three-day mobile services of the Professional Regulation Commission Region V (PRC V), sponsored by the Office of Congressman Eulogio ‘Leo’ Rodriguez.Extending his gratitude to Congressman Rodriguez, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza expressed that the outreach program of PRC, through the initiative of the lawmaker, benefitted the Catandunganons, saving them both time and travel expenses. “First of all, we would like to thank Cong. Leo Rodriguez for this initiative of providing accessible service to our fellow Catandunganons. CATSU is always willing to support projects such as this that directly benefits our beloved kababayans,” the president shared.From July 18–20, at least 2,566 transactions were processed and finished through the PRC’s mobile services.Among these services offered, the highest number of recorded transactions within three days of the said activity, is the authentication of certificates, with a total of 1,014.Followed by certification with a total of 911 recorded transactions, while 247 newly registered Catandunganon professionals applied for the initial registration.Meanwhile, a total of 204 transactions were recorded in the renewal of professional identification cards; 148 aspiring professionals filed their applications; and 42 applied for changes of entries and status.Before the start of the application, the applicants were advised by the PRC V ‘to register online at https://prc.gov.ph to secure an appointment before proceeding to the mobile service venue’. Dr. Azanza reaffirmed the university’s commitment to serving the Catandunganons particularly those residing in remote areas, emphasizing that as a public institution, CatSU is always open and ready to cater to their needs. #AGC
𝑫𝒆𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒔𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗦𝗨 𝗖𝗹𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗕 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗽𝘂𝘀𝗵𝗲𝘀; 𝗗𝗿. 𝗔𝘇𝗮𝗻𝘇𝗮 𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗹𝘀 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘀 𝘁𝗼 ‘𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒃𝒆𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒍𝒐𝒖𝒅𝒚 𝒔𝒌𝒊𝒆𝒔’ An hour before the 1,515 graduates of Cluster B marched, a heavy downpour pelted their caps and gowns while they were heading to Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Front Grounds to celebrate the 52nd Commencement Exercises on Tuesday afternoon, July 11, 2023.Despite the threat of the gloomy weather and drizzles at the start of the program, the graduates did not deter, and the university pushed through with the much-awaited celebration of the year.Associating the event's situation with limitations on conquering life, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza urged the graduates to 'look beyond'."These (cloudy skies and heavy rains) are all limitations to make sure that you conform to the norms of life. Outside these limitations are unlimited potentials," the president said."By looking beyond, you will be more, you will grow," he assured the graduates.Meanwhile, the commencement speaker also acknowledged the limitations and challenges confronted by the Class of 2023 through his representative, Dr. Maria Christina F. Campita, DA-RFOV Supervising Agriculturist, praising the graduates as "it was not an easy journey" and "not for the weak-hearted"."As graduates of this institution, you have a significant role to fill in and rise above these challenges," Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office V (DA-ROV) Director Rodel P. Tornilla said.As a certified Abaca farmer and a Catandunganon himself, the DA regional director recognized the resilient character of the Catandunganon people and challenged the newly minted graduates to emulate this on their first job."Ang mga Bicolano, pagkatapos bagyo, maririnig, mapakaray mga naraot, yu iba mairinuman ngani, at palaging may pag-asa. This is a positive attitude that you can infuse in your first job," he implored the graduates of the College of Engineering and Architecture, College of Sciences, College of Agriculture and Fisheries, College of Industrial Technology, and College of Information and Communications Technology."I encourage you to take the first step, be bold, be confident, and be ready to face the challenge and make a difference. Show them what graduates of this university are made of," the commencement speaker concluded. #AC
‘𝑻𝒉𝒓𝒆𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒐𝒏𝒆’𝒔 𝒆𝒅𝒖𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒍𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒅𝒊𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆’: 𝗔𝘁𝘁𝘆. 𝗝𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘇 𝗮𝗸𝗮 '𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑷𝒊𝒏𝒐𝒚 𝑺𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒆𝒕 𝑳𝒂𝒘𝒚𝒆𝒓' 𝗮𝗱𝗱𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗦𝗨 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯 Gawad Manilenyo awardee Atty. Danielito ‘DJ’ Jimenez, popularly known as ‘The Pinoy Street Lawyer’ with his Facebook Page, addressed the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Graduate School Class of 2023 on the final day of the university’s 52nd Commencement Exercises.There are three ways in which one’s education can impact society and make a lasting difference: Teaching and Mentorship, Embracing Research and Innovation, and Engaging in Active discourse and Lifelong Learning, Atty. Jimenez said to the 42 graduates of advanced higher education degrees on July 12. He emphasized that education is a gift, and with every gift comes the responsibility to share it with others.’"As masters, doctoral graduates, and diploma holders, it is your duty to contribute your knowledge, skills, and expertise, and share these gifts with society," Atty. Jimenez implored. Encouraging to reflect on the profound responsibility that lies upon their shoulders, the commencement speaker also believed that education is significant to cure the perennial illnesses lingering around our society. "Illnesses brought about by ignorance and a lack of critical thinking,’ he explained. He also recognized and wanted to impart to the graduates that ‘not everyone has equal access to quality education’ which results in inequity in education that perpetuates ‘social divides, hampers economic growth, and restricts social mobility.’"It is incumbent upon us to address these disparities and strive for a more inclusive society by contributing our education to improve education opportunities for all," the Pinoy Street Lawyer said, rooted in his own experience as a law practitioner who has been virtually teaching his fellow Filipinos to understand the laws easier through his social media page."Let us go forth and bring the change that education can bring to society," Atty. Jimenez urged the graduates to take part. CONFERMENT OF DEGREESOn that day, there were 42 graduates nodding to the words of the speaker who were conferred with their respective advanced higher education degrees.Only two of whom were granted a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management for this Academic Year 2022-2023.Among the master’s degrees, the Master of Arts in Educational Management program has the highest number of graduates for this commencement rites; 12 were conferred. It was followed by the Master of Arts in Teaching Biology with six (6) graduates, and then four graduates from the Master of Arts in Industrial Education, Master of Arts in Filipino Education, Master of Arts in English, and Master in Business Administration, respectively. In terms of the least number of graduates in advanced higher education level, only one conferred with the Master of Arts in Agricultural Education and the Master of Public Administration, followed by the Master of Arts in Teaching Chemistry and the Master of Arts in Mathematics Education with two graduates. And only one made it to claim the Diploma in Public Administration. LEARNING THE ULTIMATE LESSONBefore the investiture of hood and cap took place, President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza introduced and described the graduation speaker as ‘an advocate, an educator, and a beacon of hope for justice’ and a ‘man who dedicated his life to making the law accessible to all.’In his remarks, he shared with the newly minted master’s and doctorate degree holders the ultimate lesson by sharing the result of a longitudinal study conducted by Harvard University that revolved around monitoring the success of 725 participants."The result showed that it is not physical fitness, it is not financial wealth, or even the academic or research accomplishments, the accolades, or the awards you gather in life, but rather what is more important is social fitness or positive relationships; having positive relationships makes one feel successful and happy," Dr. Azanza justified. #AC
As newly-elected USC, CSC leaders take oathDr. Azanza calls to support the full implementation of CatSU’s LMSIn a bid to enhance the digital ecosystem of Catanduanes State University (CatSU), President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza urged the newly elected University Student Council (USC) and College Student Council (CSC) leaders to fully operationalize the Learning Management System (LMS). The leaders took their oath before the president on July 10, 2023.President Azanza emphasized that the LMS would streamline the enrollment process and provide students with convenient access to their grades and certification requests, eliminating the need for long queues at the registrar's office."We encourage your cooperation, and hopefully the LMS will be activated this coming academic year," the president stated, highlighting the importance of the system in facilitating student access to necessary information."Even during your vacation, you can still enroll online and instantly access your grades when necessary," he added, emphasizing the flexibility and convenience offered by the LMS.Acknowledging the diverse needs of the student body, newly sworn-in USC President, Francine Mae T. Tayo, assured the CatSU community of her administration's openness to suggestions that would improve student services."Dae man kaipo ang talent, basta aduman ang puso buda commitment nita na magserbi," she added, emphasizing the commitment of her administration to serve with passion and dedication.Following the oath-taking ceremony, President Azanza provided updates on the university's ongoing programs and projects, including the establishment of a student development center and sports facility, the procurement of fully air-conditioned buses with comfort rooms, and the continuous improvement of the university library. The oath-taking ceremony was witnessed by Director John Cyrus B. Francis of the Office of Student Affairs and Development and took place at the CatSU Conference Room. The new USC and CSC officers are poised to lead and contribute to the advancement of digital learning at CatSU. #AGC
Undersecretary Epimaco V. Densing III of the Department of Education (DepEd) told graduates of Catanduanes State University (CatSU) on Monday, July 10, to join together in upholding Filipino children’s welfare and contribute to nation-building, no matter the scale."Sama-sama tayong tumindig para sa ating bansa, para sa isang bansang makabata, batang makabansa," said Usec. Densing in his video-recorded keynote address, anchored on DepEd’s MATATAG program."Gawin natin ang mga bagay na ito dahil mahal natin ang ating bayan, para sa bata, para sa bayan, at para sa tunay na pagbabago," he added, leaving the choice to the 1,103 graduates of Cluster A at CatSU’s 52nd commencement to embody patriotism.The DepEd undersecretary also reminded the CatSU graduates that as they explore the world, 'remember that we are Filipinos, and we also need to contribute to the growth of our country, no matter how small it is.’Before Usec. Densing’s video message, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, introduced and called the undersecretary ‘a dedicated public servant and an advocate for education’.He also expressed with pride that this significant milestone signifies that the CatSU graduates had received the ‘best education’ from the university despite the challenges brought about by the global pandemic."Look back to this day, because today you have proven yourself worthy… and to the world that you are survivors," the president said."As you meet challenges, remember the love of your parents, the warmth of their embrace, and the knowledge we have shared with you," he added. As dusk settled, more than 1,000 graduates from the College of Education, College of Business and Accountancy, College of Health Sciences, and College of Humanities and Social Sciences, along with their parents, friends, and professors, marched and crowded the CatSU Front Grounds. #AGC
The Catanduanes State University (CatSU) EIS team, under the leadership of the office of the Assistant Vice-President for Administrative and Financial Affairs (AVP-AFA), recently completed the second level of Public Scoping for their proposed projects, including the CatSU economic zones.This crucial step aims to secure an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) through the formulation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).During an online consultation held via Zoom on June 20, 2023, the EIS team presented the proposed projects to Engr. Maria Socorro A. Abu, the Regional Director of the Environmental Management Bureau. This platform provided an opportunity to address any potential issues or concerns that different sectors and offices may have regarding the plans and programs outlined in the EIS. Through this process, immediate solutions can be sought in relation to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process.The Public Scoping not only facilitates the collection of valuable feedback but also promotes public participation. A constructive open forum was conducted, enabling stakeholders to raise their concerns and gain a deeper understanding of CatSU’s strategic direction as the leading educational institution in the province. Distinguished participants, such as Hon. Samuel V. Laynes, the Virac Municipal Mayor; Hon. Arlyn C. Arcilla, the Virac Municipal Vice-Mayor; Ms. Jimma V. Tadoy, the Virac Municipal Agriculturist; and Engr. Angelo V. Marquez from the National Irrigation Administration-Catanduanes, among others, actively took part in the Public Scoping process. #RJI
In a remarkable display of dedication and hard work, a daughter of a farmer and housewife from Caramoran has claimed the 11th spot in the recently concluded Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination (PNLE). This achievement was part of the exceptional results achieved by graduates from Catanduanes State University (CatSU), who achieved an unprecedented passing rate of 99.1% for first-time takers.Kristine Cerillo Sarmiento, a 22-year-old graduate, secured an impressive rating of 89.40%, coming within half a percentage point of the 10th placers who scored 89.60%. Her success reflects her relentless pursuit of excellence and the unwavering support she received from her family and friends.CatSU's College of Health Sciences also celebrates the outstanding achievements of 25 other graduates who landed spots in the top 30 passers. Among them are Hannah E. Santos, Rosemarie S. Tabang, and Francis Joseph V. Sacris, who achieved an impressive score of 88.60% and secured the 15th spot. Lin Dominic A. Velasco, Ariana Gail P. Valencia, Darla Joyce V. Quiballo, Franco Joseph V. Sacris, Alana Marie B. Talaran, and others also showcased their excellence with remarkable scores, earning them positions within the top 30.The exceptional performance of CatSU's graduates sets them apart from the national passing percentage of 74.94%.Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, the President of CatSU, expressed his delight and described the feat as "awesome." He praised the dean and faculty of the College of Health Sciences for their commitment to providing quality education and guidance to the nursing students.Offering advice to fellow nursing students during her interview with the Catanduanes Tribune, Kristine Sarmiento emphasized the importance of perseverance and striving for improvement. She shared her experience of using effective time management techniques during her exam preparation, allocating specific study periods and taking breaks to relax and recharge. Facing challenges in certain subjects, she prioritized studying them first and sought support from her family, friends, and roommates in Legazpi City, who provided motivation and unwavering support.For Kristine, her faith played a vital role in her success. She sought guidance and wisdom from St. Jude, St. Raphael, and St. Gregory, while acknowledging that she couldn't have accomplished her goals without the help of God.Looking ahead, Kristine plans to work in a hospital and potentially pursue a Master's degree. Her remarkable journey from a farmer's daughter to a successful nursing graduate serves as an inspiration to many, showing that with determination and support, dreams can be achieved.As she begins her professional career, Kristine remains grateful to her parents and siblings for their unwavering support. Her elder sister is a teacher, while her younger siblings are all pursuing their education. Her outstanding academic journey began at Dariao Elementary School, where she was a salutatorian. She later graduated with honors from Caramoran Rural Development High School in 2018. At CatSU, she actively participated as a campus journalist and served as a senator in the student body organization for two consecutive years. Kristine's remarkable success story exemplifies the transformative power of education and the dedication of individuals who strive for excellence despite the challenges they face. Her achievements stand as a testament to the potential within every individual and the importance of perseverance in realizing one's dreams. #FJBT
The Catanduanes State University Laboratory Schools (CatSU-Lab Schools) concluded its 52nd Commencement Exercises and 8th Junior High School Completion Rites on June 9, 2023, at the CatSU Gymnasium.A total of 177 graduates and completers were honored during the ceremony, which carried the theme "Batch 2023: Celebrating Perseverance, Embracing Opportunities, Shifting Perspectives.” Professor Ditas T. Manlangit, the Principal of the Laboratory Schools, presented the candidates for graduation, including 31 Grade 6 students, 87 Grade 12 students, and 59 candidates for completion.During his address, CatSU President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, expressed his message of support to the students and their proud parents. He highlighted the importance of addressing mental health issues among the youth and emphasized the crucial role of parents in guiding their children as they navigate through life. Dr. Azanza also encouraged the graduates and completers to maintain an optimistic outlook and seek help when needed.“Never mind the negativities, just focus on being optimistic because after all is said and done, we are on a journey, and that journey leads us to only one thing- and that is our God,” Dr. Azanza said.The ceremony featured Engr. Charlyn Gurrobat-Primero as the honored Guest Speaker. Engr. Gurrobat-Primero, a CatSU-Laboratory Schools Batch 2003 Valedictorian, and presently the Quality Management Representative of Orthopaedic International, Inc., shared inspiring anecdotes and stories of perseverance from her time as a CatSU student.She commended the graduates and completers for their resilience in overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic. Engr. Gurrobat-Primero also recognized the efforts and commitment of CatSU in providing quality education even amidst the global health crisis, acknowledging the university's recent achievement as one of the top three universities in the Bicol Region.“Carry that spirit of resilience with you as you embark on your future endeavors and couple it with faith. You are neither just graduates nor completers, you are beacons of hope,” she said. Meanwhile, the 52nd Recognition Ceremonies, held on June 7, 2023, featured Prof. Arjay V. Abichuela, Medical Technologist IV at the Philippine Heart Center, and Mr. Joshua O. Tadoy, HR Manager at Acquire BPO Philippines, Inc., as guest speakers for Cluster 1 and Cluster 2, respectively. #RJI
