Catanduanes State University (CATSU) is set to significantly enhance its wi-fi services after Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza has successfully negotiated with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Provincial Officer Mario John D. Gonzales to secure an additional 100mbps of free wi-fi exclusively for the university students.This boost is in addition to the existing 150mbps dedicated to CatSU offices and the pre-existing 200mbps PLDT line serving the Main Campus.Moreover, Dr. Azanza has extended his commitment to providing even broader connectivity benefits to the university as he has sought DICT's assistance to install free Wi-Fi connections at Panganiban Campus and to secure four Starlink connections for the university. Dr. Azanza has also approved an upgrade of the PLDT wi-fi connection at the Main Campus, increasing its capacity from 200mbps to 400mbps, complete with a state-of-the-art firewall to ensure security and reliability."Under my term, we have upgraded our wi-fi connection from a total of 50mbps when I started at CatSU to 650mbps two years within my term,” Dr. Azanza said.In addition to these enhancements, the university is making significant investments in infrastructure resilience. The President has initiated the installation of an underground fiber optic network throughout all campus buildings. “Kasama na rin sa mga pagbabago ang pagkabit ng underground fiber optic network sa lahat ng buildings ng CATSU para kahit may bagyo ay safe ang ating mga communication lines,” Dr. Azanza said, highlighting this as a forward-thinking move ensuring uninterrupted connectivity during adverse weather conditions. #ATugay
In a move to increase Catandunganon women’s economic capability, the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) and the Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere (CARE) International signed an agreement that aims to benefit Catandunganon women to gain sustainable livelihoods. Dubbed as Women and Youth Economic Empowerment (WE Empower) Project, the residents of four barangays in Bato and four barangays in Virac will be the target beneficiaries of the program.“The project focuses on two commodities: abaca and root crops and [to be] implemented in two municipalities covering eight barangays,” expressed in the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA). Held at the university’s conference room, the joint partnership was signed by CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza and witnessed by CARE’s Asia Regional Director, Dr. Musa Muhammad, together with his staff on Tuesday, September 19.Present also during the MoA signing were the newly installed Vice-President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs Dr. Rosana S. Abundo, Extension Services Director Dr. Adem Nalu V. Rubio, and other university’s key officials. CARE is an international humanitarian organization that works with women and girls to combat worldwide poverty and hunger. #ATUgay
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) had a meeting with President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza regarding the evaluation of the Philippines' DRR needs and priorities, on September 21.This is to support their efforts of reducing climate-related disaster risks, which are aligned with international agreements like the Paris Agreement and the Sendai Framework on DRR, in line with the UN's ERC flagship initiative.The delegation included Mr. Marcus Oxley and Mr. Benigno Balgos, both Senior Non-Key Experts from the EU NDC Facility, along with Ms. Maria Agnes Palacio of UNOCHA Philippines.The meeting also included Dr. Jose Z. Tria, Engr. Dexter M. Toyado, and Dr. Rosana S. Abundo as requested by UNOCHA. The meeting mainly discussed CatSU’s contributions and contingencies in the occurrence of climate-related disasters like typhoons and the problems that come with it. Dr. Azanza described the many people-centered projects and programs provided by CatSU such as the designation of Evacuation Centers, the use case scenario of the Solar farm, and the creation of food supply establishments such as fish ponds and other foods and amenities required in the event of a disaster. #ATugay
𝑃𝑎𝑑𝑎𝑔𝑜𝑠 𝑛𝑎 𝑃𝑎𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑜𝑠 𝑠𝑎 𝐶𝑜𝐸𝑑‘Sa satuyang pagreparo nababago ang CatSU,’ Catanduanes State University (CatSU) President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza said this during the General Orientation for College of Education (CoEd) students and their parents, September 20, underscoring the transformative 'care' initiatives undertaken by CatSU under his leadership, which have significantly improved the university's infrastructure and internal processes.Dr. Azanza outlined his commitment to continue such initiatives within CoEd, one of which is the comprehensive review of the 'retention policy' of the College in collaboration with CoEd faculty and OIC-Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs Dr. Rosana S. Abundo, Dean Dr. Maria Sheila R. Gregorio, and CoEd faculty members.“Pigaadalan mi man, in a thorough review, ang retention policy kan College of Education. Gusto tang ireview ini so that it can be flexible in certain circumstances like during pandemic and calamities, na pwedeng makaapekto sa performance ninda,” he explained, also emphasizing the importance of maintaining educational quality throughout this process.He has also plans to lobby this in the Board of Regents, where he serves as Vice-Chairperson, and to include considerations for graduating students.Dr. Azanza also encouraged CoEd students to excel in their studies and succeed in licensure exams, especially since the university has made available a review center within CatSU to alleviate the financial burden on parents.“Dinara ta sa CatSU ang review para sa mga estudyante. Dakulang tabang tabi iyan, ta ang gusto ta, dai magparagastos ang mga magurang,” he said, further imploring that the cost of review within CatSU ranges from 10 to 15 thousand pesos, significantly lower than the 50 thousand pesos and above charged on the mainland.The President mentioned that he has already opened the Men's Dorm and Ladies Dorm, allowing students to use a common kitchen to save on expenses.“Inopen ta na ang Men’s Dorm and ang Ladies Dorm, allowed na magluto ang mga aki ta kung igwang bagas na dara, makaluto mismo sa dorm. At the lowest rate of 1 thousand per student compared sa mga presyo nin dorms sa luwas,” he said.Moreover, Dr. Azanza proudly announced that the university's four buses will be delivered in a few weeks, and these will operate free round-trip routes from North to South, further easing the financial burdens of parents. The president also encouraged students to study smart for them to graduate, and consider pursuing a Master's degree, saying that the university continually opens new plantilla instructor positions, following the approval of 56 new instructor items by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM). #ATugay
Catanduanes State University (CatSU), in partnership with the Civil Service Commission (CSC) Catanduanes Field Office and Catanduanes Council of Human Resource Management Practitioners, Inc. (CCHRMP), organized a two-day seminar-workshop on government benefits, drawing attendees from various government agencies on day 1, September 20, 2023, at the CatSU Auditorium.With the theme "Transforming Public Service in the Next Decade: Honing Agile and Future-Ready Servant-Heroes," this two-day seminar workshop aimed to equip participants with a thorough grasp of leave administration and government-mandated benefits.In his inspirational message, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza emphasized the crucial impact that human resource practitioners can have on improving people's lives."If we are united, if this council will be strong enough, you can issue support to every HR practitioner na gagibo nin tama. They will see, every head of agency will realize, nag-abot na sa panahon na an boses kang HR practitioners, talagang dapat bag'ohon," Dr. Azanza implored, emphasizing the importance of unity and strength within the council to support HR practitioners who strive to make a positive impact.Dr. Azanza further stressed that their voices have reached a critical juncture in reshaping the future of the province.“Otherwise, we will just be under the wings and the prices of people who decide for the lives of many on the island. Naghanda ka para mag-apply, tig-ready mo so sadiri mo, only to realize, useless ta igwa na man plan nakapangaran duman sa posisyon,” he added.The president concluded his message by pressing the Padagos na Patanos Movement program, which extends CatSU's services to the Community."We need CatSU to go out of the University and reach out to the 315 barangays so that the university will be felt by every Catandunganon. Maogma ako na hali kita sa iba-ibang munisipyo digdi, because eventually, you will encounter us. CatSU will be in the barangays," he expressed. Meanwhile, CSC Director Enida B. Abordo, discussed topics such as Government Office Hours, Overview of Leave Privileges, General Types of Leave, Flexible Working Hours, Recording of Work Hours, and Special Emergencies, including leave and study leave. #ATugay
𝑻𝑨𝑷-𝑳𝑮𝑼 𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒔Recognizing the profound impact of early childhood education, the Catanduanes State University - College of Education (CatSU-CoEd) Extension Services is eyeing to replicate its Pundasyon 2.0 (Pundasyon+Educasyon): Instructional Enhancement Training for Child Development Teachers (CDTs) across the province after its successful implementation in Virac.“Panduwang taon na kang programa na ini, so with that masasabi talagang na-sustain natin. Our target [after this] is to have a replication of the Pundasyon activity in other municipalities in the province since this activity is also in line with the TAP-LGU initiatives of the president,” newly installed Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs (VPREPA) and CoEd faculty, Dr. Rosana S. Abundo, expressed during her opening remarks for the second staging of Pundasyon activity today, September 20.“We are working na magkaigwa kita ning MOA between CatSU and DSWD. ‘Yon yong mga future plans and we just started it, madami pa tayong pupuntahan sa mga maabot na panahon [and] that is our dream, para man gabos na CDTs [sa probinsya] ay mataw’an man ning Extension para maka-assist sa kung ano man ang kaipuhan niyo,” she added, encouraging the participants to volunteer as facilitators once the activity is rolled out to other municipalities.Joining the VPREPA, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza lauded the efforts of the 30 participating CDTs in providing support and education to the crucial formative years of a child’s life, emphasizing the foundational role they play in shaping the potential of young learners,“[Grabe] ang effort niyo every day and yet most of them, kadalasan dae natatawan ning pansin. Kung hihilingon tabi, sisay daw an mga bayani kang satuyang barangay? Kamo baga. Kasi kamo mismo ang gatao ning serbisyo, ning suporta para sa pangangaipo kang sektor na dae naataman ning husto sa mga barabarangay,” he said, underscoring the university’s commitment to providing support to the often-overlooked sectors through the Padagos na Patanos Movement.“Kaya kami man sa CatSU, sa paagi kang Pundasyon na programa kan COED, mamati niyo man na ang CatSU kaibahan niyo tabi, nakasuporta sainyo,” the president ensured. The Pundasyon activity is a series of seminar-workshops aimed at equipping the CDTs with the latest pedagogical skills and knowledge used in teaching pre-kinder pupils. The third part of the series will be conducted on September 27 and will feature a Demonstration Teaching among the participants to showcase their acquired knowledge and skills throughout the series. #AClemente
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) is getting closer towards the establishment of its College of Law, as it progresses toward meeting the stringent requirements set by the Law Education Board (LEB).Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza expressed optimism about the university's progress in effectively addressing access to costly law books."Compliance with the law book requirements is no longer a problem as Rex Bookstore (rebranded as Rex Education) has donated books," he said after he secured this generous contribution by Rex Bookstore.Dr. Azanza also acknowledged the role played by CatSU Regent Atty. Santiago T. Gabionza Jr., who is also the legal counsel to Rex Publishing. Furthermore, President Azanza reassured that the moot court's completion is on track to meet the LEB's deadline, with an expected finish date before the end of October. "Nasa 70 percent completion naman po ang satuyang moot court sa third floor kan Main Building," said Dr. Azanza, indicating significant progress in the establishment of a moot court. This moot court, as another LEB requirement, is designed to replicate a real courtroom environment, providing law students with practical experience.He noted that the bidding process was followed diligently to ensure the quality and integrity of the construction materials used in the moot court's construction.President Azanza expressed hope that once CatSU passes the ocular inspection by the LEB and fulfills all requirements, the university will be able to offer the Juris Doctor degree by 2024. He emphasized the significance of this achievement, particularly for the people of Catanduanes."Base sa survey, nasa 200 po ang nagrespond positively sa satuyang feasibility study na requirement nin law board," the President highlighted, underscoring the feasibility and demand for the law program.Additionally, President Azanza revealed that the applications for the College of Law and the College of Medicine are top priorities in the university's plans. Under his leadership, CatSU has already introduced seven new courses in just over two years, including the Master of Arts in Nursing (MAN), Bachelor of Science in Architecture, BS Entertainment & Multimedia Computing with Majors in Game Development and Digital Animation, BS Electronics Communication Engineering, BS Library Science, and BA English Language. These new offerings have significantly boosted enrollment at CatSU, as noted by the President.In a remarkable surge, CatSU has witnessed a substantial increase in enrollment, climbing from 9,060 students in 2021 to an impressive 14,150 this year, marking a substantial growth of 56.09 percent."It is also a help for the people of Catanduanes because students need not go to mainland universities to study, highlighting that CatSU really serves the people," he said, highlighting this achievement. He expressed his concern for students and parents who may face financial challenges when seeking education elsewhere, emphasizing that CatSU has responded to this need by introducing industry-related new courses."Ibig sabihon mas dakula ang naseserbisyuhan nin CatSU. Kung pigpili ta sana, sain daw mapunta ang mga estudyante? Dakulang gastos sa mga magurang," President Azanza empathized, underscoring the importance of making quality education accessible to local students.President Azanza also outlined CatSU's mission to provide opportunities for island residents, both in terms of education and employment. "With our project na i-expand ang enrolment sa paagi nin pag-open nin bagong kurso, natawan nin opportunities ang mga taga-isla lalao sa employment. Iyan po talaga ang saro sa sakuyang programa na gibuhon ang CatSU na maging number one employment organization digdi sa isla," he explained. Dr. Azanza has secured approval for 56 new instructor positions from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and is awaiting approval for another 25 non-teaching positions, including five Administrative Officer V items at Salary Grade 18. #ATugay
In recent years, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) has been making remarkable strides in the field of sports. The addition of the 𝗢𝗹𝘆𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗰-𝘀𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗱 𝘀𝘄𝗶𝗺𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗼𝗼𝗹, an 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝗹𝗮𝘄𝗻 𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗻𝗶𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘁, and an 𝘂𝗽𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱 within the main campus marks a significant turning point for athletics at CatSU. The construction of the university's sports complex long-course swimming pool began in 2021. After a year of construction, CatSU now boasts the 10-lane Olympic-sized pool, complete with separate quarters for male and female athletes featuring comfortable changing rooms equipped with benches, shower rooms, and toilets. These amenities ensure that student-athletes have a convenient and enjoyable experience during sports activities.Moreover, today’s sports complex has three grandstands with a 329-seating capacity each and features two additional rooms downstairs. These rooms will serve dual purposes, accommodating physical education classes and gym sessions as well as providing space for various sports activities. The grandstand is a versatile space that complements the sporting facilities, fostering a well-rounded athletic environment for students.𝑭𝒖𝒍𝒇𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝑽𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏During a swimming practice session for the National SCUAA delegates, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza expressed how fortunate CatSU athletes are to have access to these top-notch facilities. Dr. Azanza emphasized the crucial role of quality facilities in fostering a strong team. He acknowledged that for years, the needs of the athletes had not been adequately addressed, especially in terms of training facilities. However, with the establishment and improvement of the university's sports complex, CatSU is poised for greatness.The transformation of a once-barren hectare of land into a flourishing sports complex is a testament to CatSU's commitment to providing a world-class education. These infrastructural developments contribute to students' holistic growth and solidify CatSU's reputation as a leading educational institution. #AClemente
𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑚𝑝𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐴𝐼 𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑡Catanduanes State University (CatSU) President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza inked an MOU on September 12 to form a partnership with Bicol University and National University, solidifying their commitment to the "eParticipation 2.1: Harnessing Natural Language Processing (NLP) for Community Participation" project, which has secured funding and approval from CHED.This partnership, scheduled to last until September 2024, represents a major milestone for the universities as they unite to leverage the capabilities of Artificial Intelligence-Natural Language Processing (AI-NLP) technologies.One of the cornerstones of this partnership is the inclusion of CatSU in the AI-NLP training and capacity-building initiative, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of higher education institutions in the Philippines. Dr. Azanza expressed his excitement for the collaboration, highlighting its potential to transform community engagement and problem-solving using advanced technology. #ATugay
Consultants from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Philippines met with Catanduanes State University (CatSU) President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza to discuss project updates and opportunities for strengthening their collaboration, particularly in renewable energy solutions, September 13.IOM's initiatives in Catanduanes encompass a wide range of critical areas, including comprehensive skills training programs, campaigns promoting safe migration practices, and the construction of robust and typhoon-resilient safe houses strategically located across the province. These projects are aimed at uplifting local communities and enhancing their resilience to environmental challenges.As a testament to their commitment to these projects, IOM plans to conduct extensive site visits to witness the direct impact of their initiatives and extend their courtesies to the recipient's offices, including the Catanduanes State University. During the meeting, Dr. Azanza provided an overview of the university's people-centric projects. These initiatives include EduKain, an educational empowerment program, and robust Typhoon response protocols designed to prioritize community safety. Dr. Azanza also emphasized the innovative Solar Farm initiative, underscoring CatSU's dedication to sustainable energy solutions and environmental stewardship. Following the productive meeting, several IOM representatives, including their expert in Solar Grids and related technologies, visited the Solar Microfarm in the university campus. #ATugay
𝐴 𝑃𝑟𝑜𝑢𝑑 𝑆𝐴𝑅𝐼𝑁𝐺𝐺𝐴𝑌𝐴 𝐴𝑤𝑎𝑟𝑑𝑒𝑒A recognized SARINGGAYA awardee and a premier green research institution in the province, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) demonstrates its commitment to green initiatives and environmental stewardship as it took center stage at the International Coastal Cleanup 2023, September 16. Under the leadership of CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, the university rallied hundreds of volunteers, including faculty, non-teaching personnel, and students, for this crucial environmental initiative along the shores of Antipolo Del Sur and Antipolo Del Norte.In the opening program at the Provincial Capitol Grounds, Dr. Azanza delivered a message that pinned on the spirit of unity and environmental responsibility."Maogma na kita nagkakasararo, para sa maayos asin patanos na kapaributan sa isla," he said, emphasizing unity in taking care of the environment."Mabalik man sana ang problema na satong yatao sa kapaributan," he continued, highlighting the potential consequences of our actions, as the waste we discard may return as problems."Ipagrokyaw ang pangangaipo. Magkakasararo pirmi para sa karahayan kan satuyang gabos," he passionately expressed, underlining his Padagos na Patanos Movement, which expands the university's extension arm in the community. CatSU's participation in the cleanup event highlighted its commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. The university has long been at the forefront of green research and education, consistently emphasizing the importance of preserving Catanduanes' natural beauty.The involvement of CatSU faculty, staff, and students demonstrated the deep-rooted dedication to these ideals, as they worked tirelessly alongside other volunteers to clear beaches and coastal areas of all kinds of wastes. #ATugay
𝑻𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑽𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒍 𝒐𝒇 𝑯𝒐𝒑𝒆In a recent General Orientation event organized by the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Office of the Registration Services, President Azanza emphasized his rallying cry, "𝑷𝒂𝒅𝒂𝒈𝒐𝒔 𝒏𝒂 𝑷𝒂𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒔 𝑴𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕," as he encouraged students to unite and actively engage with their community and province, September 11 at the university gymnasium.He stressed the significance of CatSU's participation in the Commission on Higher Education's (CHED) free education program, urging the 4, 201 first-year students to proudly carry the title "𝐈𝐬𝐤𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐫" and represent the university with honor."𝐷𝑎𝑝𝑎𝑡 𝑎𝑛 𝑠𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑑𝑜𝑛𝑔 𝑖𝑠𝑖𝑝𝑜𝑛 𝑝𝑎𝑘𝑎-𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑤𝑎𝑟 𝑖𝑦𝑜 𝑎𝑛 𝑘𝑢𝑛 𝑝𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑛𝑜 𝑘𝑎𝑚𝑜 𝑚𝑎𝑘𝑎𝑝𝑎𝑦-𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑤𝑎𝑟𝑑 𝑠𝑎 𝑠𝑎𝑡𝑢𝑦𝑎𝑛𝑔 𝑖𝑠𝑙𝑎," 𝑃𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐴𝑧𝑎𝑛𝑧𝑎 𝑒𝑚𝑝ℎ𝑎𝑠𝑖𝑧𝑒𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑖𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑔𝑖𝑣𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑏𝑎𝑐𝑘 𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑖𝑟 𝑖𝑠𝑙𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑚𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑦.Meanwhile, Ms. Marilyn G. Tejada, University Registrar III, expressed her enthusiasm for the orientation's success, highlighting the importance of students being well-informed about key members of the university's divisions and departments, including Central Management, Admin and Finance, Academic Affairs, Research, Extension and Production, and Panganiban Campus."𝐼𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑒 𝑛𝑎 𝑎𝑛 𝑠𝑎𝑡𝑢𝑦𝑎𝑛𝑔 𝑚𝑔𝑎 𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑢𝑑𝑦𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑒 𝑎𝑦 𝑤𝑒𝑙𝑙-𝑖𝑛𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑒𝑑, 𝑖𝑛 𝑎𝑛𝑦 𝑎𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑡 𝑑𝑎𝑝𝑎𝑡 𝑚𝑎𝑦 𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑎 𝑠𝑖𝑙𝑎 ℎ𝑜𝑤 𝑡𝑜 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑚𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑡𝑒 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑒𝑜𝑝𝑙𝑒 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛 𝐶𝑎𝑡𝑆𝑈," Ms. Tejada stressed. This year's General Orientation aimed to empower and inform the student body about the university's structure, resources, and commitment to community service. #ATugay
