The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Regional Office V released its new slogan, "Building Institutions as Champions of Optimum Lifelong Learning," along with its 8-Point Agenda, called HIGH FIVE, on March 3, 2025. This slogan encourages Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Bicol, including Catanduanes State University, “to go beyond traditional instruction and become champions of excellence, innovation, and lifelong learning,” according to CHED Region V Memorandum Order No. 34 s. 2025, which was signed by newly installed Regional Director Dr. Demetrio P. Anduyan, Jr. Addressed to all Bicol presidents and heads of public and private higher education institutions, CHED Region V memorandum emphasized that the vision for HEIs is not only to provide knowledge but also to lead in preparing future-ready graduates—institutions that don’t just respond to change but actively drive it. The agency aims to achieve this by incorporating advanced technology, relevant curricula, and hands-on learning into academic programs while fostering leadership and critical thinking among students. “HEIs should emphasize digital literacy, interdisciplinary collaboration, and research-driven cultures to develop students' expertise and confidence. This includes internships, mentorships, and global engagement,” the memorandum stated. Dr. Anduyan also wrote on his social media account on March 5, 2025, calling the Bicol 8-Point Agenda a commitment to the holistic development of students, ensuring they receive a well-rounded education that supports academic, physical, emotional, and ethical growth. He further highlighted that CHED Region V is dedicated to supporting international collaboration and integrating Bicol’s heritage into education, while also preparing students with the necessary 21st-century skills. CatSU Officer-in-Charge Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr.,expressed full support for the slogan and agenda, reaffirming the University's commitment to CHED Region V’s goal of producing globally competitive graduates who will make a meaningful impact and drive change for the nation.
“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.
“I think it’s perfect since nobody got hurt. Today was an excellent job,” expressed by Mr. Andrew Hoar, an international disaster specialist who personally observed the earthquake drill featuring simulated emergency scenarios, which was hosted by Catanduanes State University on Thursday afternoon, March 13, in collaboration with various law enforcement and disaster response agencies. Hoar emphasized that safety is a key component of any disaster response, and suggested minor improvements, such as avoiding speeding and backing up vehicles onsite since during the simulation, emergency vehicles, including ambulances and fire trucks, responded promptly to conduct high-angle operations and extinguish a simulated fire at the university gymnasium. The 1st Quarter National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) simulated an 8.1 magnitude quake, where at 3:00 PM, a loud siren prompted CatSU employees and students to evacuate their classrooms and offices and head to designated safe areas. Other disaster response officials also provided feedback, applauding the quick response of the rescue teams and praising the inter-agency cooperation. They looked forward to more drills and training to continue improving the disaster preparedness of all involved. During the exercise, the CatSU community, led by Officer-in-Charge Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., witnessed simulated fires, search and rescue operations, and a rescue where a victim was lifted using a makeshift zipline from the top of a university building to the flagpole. Vice President for Administrative Affairs Engr. Benjamin Hannycel T. Nuyda expressed his gratitude and commendation to the responders, led by the director of simulation, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office Chief Luis P. Surtida Jr., for successfully conducting the earthquake drill with multiple emergency scenarios. Other participating agencies included the Catanduanes Provincial Police Office, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of Virac, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Army, Philippine Red Cross, CatSU Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, Provincial Engineering Office, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and Provincial Health Office, among others.
Continuing the legacy of merit-based selection, Louie T. Guerrero, top 1 applicant, took his oath as Legal Assistant III of the University Legal Unit before CatSU OIC Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr. on March 13 at the Office of the President. Guerrero, who previously served as Executive Assistant III under the Executive Assistance Services, secured the post through a stringent selection process by the Personnel Selection Board chaired by Vice President Benjamin Hannycel T. Nuyda. Meritocracy stood as one of the hallmarks of then-President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza’s administration, ensuring top-caliber hires for the university.
“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.
Former Officer-in-Charge of Catanduanes State University (CatSU), Atty. Septon A. de la Cruz, formally handed over administrative documents to the new Officer-in-Charge, Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., in a turnover ceremony, January 9, 2025. Atty. de la Cruz expressed his well-wishes for Dr. Barba and pinned on the importance of winning the administration's support and streamlining processes to ensure effective leadership. Dr. Barba, in turn, accepted the responsibilities and challenges of leading one of Bicol's premier state universities. As the OIC of CatSU, he aims to strengthen academic standards, develop research facilities, initiate resource generation for sustainability, and simplify processes to enhance efficiency and value-added services to further CatSU's mission and vision for excellence. Appointed by the Board of Regents (BOR) during a special board meeting on January 7, Dr. Barba will serve as OIC pending the selection of a new SUC President III. Prior to this designation, Dr. Barba held several key posts at CatSU, including Dean of the College of Agriculture and Fisheries, BAC Chairman, Executive Vice President, and leader of major university projects. Meanwhile, effective January 10, Atty. de la Cruz assumes the role of Director of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Cordillera Administrative Region. This reassignment follows CHED Special Order No. 141, s. 2024, signed by CHED Chairman Dr. J. Prospero E. De Vera III.
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.
