In its quest to strengthen the public and private sector partnership to help resilient communities, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) officials led by University President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, welcomed the officials from Help.NGO, Monday, January 22, 2024.The team, composed of Matthew Cua, Philippines Innovation and IT Director, and joined by Adam Marlatt, USA Operations Director, Agata Klat, Poland Communications Director, and Jose Felix, Philippines Expert on Mission, were welcomed by Executive Vice President Dr. Robert Barba, ATIC Director, Prof. Abelisa Evangelista, and Dr. Jimmy T. Masagca, CatSU’s seasoned professor and member of National Panel of Technical Experts of the Climate Change Commission. Help.NGO, an International Non-Governmental Organization specializing in emergency response, preparedness, risk mitigation and prevention operates as a non-profit organization in the European Union and a UN Standby Partner with operations across the globe. The organization employs cutting-edge technological solutions and expertise to improve national and international disaster response mechanisms prior to, during, and after emergencies.Having pioneered global training and resiliency initiatives, Help.NGO focuses on conducting impactful programs, including UAS (Unmanned Aerial System), LEO (Low Earth Orbit) Connectivity, and Cloud Computing training and capacity-building programs in various regions, spanning countries such as the European Union, Mexico, Haiti, Philippines, Colombia, Ethiopia, among others.The University President expressed satisfaction with this international collaboration, expressing his gratitude to the organization.“We are happy with the collaboration that we have with Help.NGO. We appreciate the efforts now that they are set to do training for our university along with our partner organizations,” Dr. Azanza shared.In addition to training programs, Help.NGO also offers UAS and Cloud Computing support such as mapping and surveying mangrove forests, rehabilitation sites and nurseries as well as abaca plantations and nurseries throughout Catanduanes Island. The organization will offer a free one-year resource to process drone data into usable maps in the cloud, allowing CatSU to utilize its own UAS for various projects.President Azanza highlighted the importance of disaster management projects for supporting the island's livelihood, emphasizing their role in achieving the institution's goal of becoming a National Center for Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management“Disaster management projects to support the island’s livelihood are indeed necessary and significant in our goal to make the institution a National Center for Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management. We are thankful and grateful for the opportunities like this that we get to be visited by experts,” the president ended.
From the modern exterior design of the building to its welcoming lobby, the first-ever Student Development Center at the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) seeks to build a space that encourages collaboration among its students.Construction of its ground floor began in the first quarter of 2023, this P24.9 million building is the first-ever facility built in the university’s 62-year history, intended to be utilized and managed by the students.With a total floor area of 770 square meters, phase 1 was officially completed last month, December 2023.Although the construction of its phase 2, second floor, is not running yet, the ground floor is now ready for occupancy, according to the chief of university's Project Management Office (PMO)."Technically hindi pa tapos ang project kasi igwa pang phase 2, pero puwede nang gamiton 'yong ground floor kasi usable na siya," Project Development Officer III Engr. Renato T. Chong said.𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗦𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗩𝗜𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗢 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬This newest facility has become possible through the collaborative effort of Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza and former student regents Renz Mickenly Tanael (2021) and Angelo Piolo Laynes (2022), and incumbent student regent Francine Mae Tayo. While the project funding was facilitated by Sen. Juan Edgardo 'Sonny' Angara, Sen. Pia Cayetano, and Ako Bicol Partylist Representative Elizaldy S. Co, according to the university president."Alay natin ito sa mga CatSU students upang higit nilang ma-enjoy ang academic freedom sa loob ng campus," the president wrote in his Facebook post on September 18, 2023, after inspecting the construction site.Here's a glance at the new building, which will house the Office of the Student Regent, University Student Council, Office of Student and Development Services (OSADS), Office of Student Scholarship Financial Assistance, Career Development & Placement Services (OSSFACDPS), and registered student body organizations.As a hub of resources and opportunities, OSADS Director Francis John B. Templonuevo expressed optimism about the transformative impact of the center on the campus community.“Dedicating a well-equipped student center holds immense significance for the holistic development of CatSU students. A place where a sense of community will be fostered, as this encourages collaboration, communication, and the exchange of ideas among students under one roof, nurturing not only their academic success but also their personal growth,”This newest facility will convene student leaders to share their passion and knowledge to better serve the studentry.Located near Men’s Dormitory, the entrance of the Student Center boasts a wide lobby, setting an inviting atmosphere.With seven purpose-built rooms, this building has reserved space for student lounge, student activity area and meeting room, and includes two comfort rooms for male and female, respectively.“It is an open area for collaboration, not just for student leaders, but for CatSU students to utilize [the facility] in its full capacity,” the incumbent USC president said.Acknowledging also the facility’s amenities, former student regent Tanael shared in his post that this will be ‘a place for the students to study, [where they can also avail of] computer and printing [services], and [use this] to practice for performances or even hold a symposium’.With the possible services to be offered, Angel Clemente, a first-year student from the College of Business and Accountancy (CBA), looked forward to its full operation.“Malaking tulong sa aming mga estudyante, dahil makakatipid kami sa gastusin,” she exclaimed.Planning is also underway for the installation of Wi-Fi, partition walls, and aircon to the new building before its turnover, according to the incumbent student regent.
Gearing up for their upcoming off-campus internship, over 500 fourth-year students of Catanduanes State University undertook a seminar series called Career Coaching and Counseling 2024 from January 17-18, which bridged academic learning and real-world application. Organized by CatSU-Alumni Relation Services as the Public Employment Services Office (PESO) and Office of Student Scholarship, Financial Assistance, Career Development, and Placement Services (OSSFACDPS), the invited lecturers from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) - Catanduanes Field Office guided the aspiring interns on workplace dynamics and discussed different labor-related topics that will help them to make a meaningful contribution during their internships. Alumni Office Director and PESO Officer Prof. Maricel S. Cariaso said the activity ensures the graduating students are prepared and well-equipped before deployment."This raises awareness about their rights and responsibilities and instills workplace ethics and the importance of work-life balance," the Alumni Office Director and PESO officer said.DOLE Senior Labor Employment Officer Jomell S. Pasano guided the students on the topics of labor market information, workplace ethics and conflict resolution, work-life balance, and building and maintaining a professional network.Giving insights on legally-mandated employee benefits, DOLE Senior Labor Employment Officer Danilo Balilo walked through the participants on general labor standards.The first day of the seminar series was attended by students from the College of Agriculture and Fisheries for the morning session and in the afternoon session, students from the College of Information and Communications Technology.For today’s session, January 18, College of Industrial Technology (CIT) students are the participants.Other colleges are scheduled on the following dates: January 19, College of Business and Accountancy (morning) and College of Sciences (afternoon); and on January 29, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (morning) and the College of Education (afternoon).Students from two remaining colleges, the College of Engineering and Architecture, and the College of Health Sciences, including the Panganiban Campus, are set to embark on similar activity in March or April this year, according to the alumni office director.
As part of its continued commitment to upholding transparency in public service, the Catanduanes State University, through its Review and Compliance Committee (RCC), guides and facilitates the employees on proper filling out of their Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) forms through orientation-workshop, from January 10-12, and 17, 2024.Designated chairman of the said committee, Chief Administrative Officer for Administration Atty. Gregorio M. Sarmiento Jr. led the discussion on the guidelines for filling out the SALN form and laid out its legal bases."If you are not in the government, nobody will ask you about your income, your money, your connections, or whatever, but if you are in the government, you will be subjected to this kind of requirement," he explained, asking the employees to comply with the SALN’s upcoming submission, as required under Article XI Section 17 of the 1987 Constitution and Section 8 of RA 6713 or the “Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees”.According to the RCC chair, things to disclose in the SALN are assets, liabilities, business interests, financial connections, and relatives in the government within the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity.Employees who fail to submit as well as disclose or even misdeclare SALN will be penalized, which include one to six months work suspension, as declared by the RCC chair.Reiterating the submission deadline of SALN, human resource chief Ma. Sionne May T. Crispino informed the participants to submit four (4) copies of original, and unnotarized SALN, except for joint filing, to their respective immediate supervisors on or before February 28, 2024."It is the duty of the immediate supervisors to collate the SALN and submit it to the HRMS on the second Friday of March 2024," she added.Under the law, RA 6713 requires employees to file SALN on or before April 30 of every year, but the advance deadline set by the university will give the RCC ample time to review and evaluate the submitted SALN forms properly.The said four-day seminar comprises eight sessions, morning and afternoon, where all offices/units/departments have their respective schedule.
Catanduanes State University- College of Health and Sciences (CatSU-CHS) continued its three-day research seminar-workshop with a focus on strengthening faculty writing skills, January 11, 2024 at the E-Crown Hotel and Resort.Former dean and retired Professor VI Dr. Aurora E. Araojo, the first lecturer, delivered a comprehensive discussion on conducting quantitative research to over 60 faculty-researchers.She pinned on problem identification and the art of questioning, emphasizing to "dig deeper in questioning, as long as it’s still related to the topic because in research, it requires a skill in the art of questioning."Assistant Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs ((REPA) Dr. Kristian Q. Aldea followed with insights into various experimental designs, including pre-experimental, true experimental, and quasi-experimental designs. He also addressed ethical concerns in research, encouraging participants to not hesitate in conducting research and discover the unknown.In the afternoon session, retired Professor VI and former Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Maria S. Tugano presented on tools and methods of data collection, highlighting the importance of respecting respondent anonymity and confidentiality.The day concluded with practical tips and strategies shared by Prof. Moreno Tabios, Jr., focusing on the sampling and statistical treatment of data.The seminar-workshop, led by CatSU-CHS Research Coordinator Dr. John F. Villegas, spans from January 10–12, aiming to equip faculty members with essential research skills.
Aimed to fortify the college's commitment to upscale research initiatives, the College of Health Sciences (CHS) of Catanduanes State University (CatSU) concluded its 3-day seminar workshop attended by its faculty-researchers, January 12, 2024, at the E-Crown Hotel and Resort.University President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, highlighted in his message the paramount importance of research in determining the university's standing on a global scale. "Distinguishing a true university from those aspiring to achieve that status, research stands out as a defining factor," emphasized Dr. Azanza.Dr. Maria Alma V. Tabirara, the Dean of CHS, shared her vision for the seminar's transformative impact on the college's research culture. "The participants' comprehensive learning will ultimately channel effectively into pertinent research outcomes, placing the college within the distinguished research culture expected of a university," she declared. Dr. Tabirara also underscored the alignment of the seminar's focus on experimental designs and ethical considerations with the college's overarching research goals, citing the inspiration and challenge it brings to the faculty.Reflecting on the achievements and future plans, College Research Coordinator, Dr. John F. Villegas, expressed satisfaction with the seminar's outcomes. "Mainly, the aim is to build the capacity of CHS faculty members, and I am humbly pleased to say that our goals have been met and achieved," he remarked. Dr. Villegas outlined his commitment to sustaining the newfound enthusiasm among faculty members by being readily available with his time and support.Sharing insights as a participant, faculty member Mr. Arnel Aarron M. Alcantara emphasized the applicability of the seminar's teachings to his work within CHS. "Acquiring knowledge of the latest research methodologies and staying updated on advancements can significantly improve the quality and effectiveness of research conducted within CHS," he noted. Alcantara also highlighted the seminar's influence on problem identification and the formulation of specific research questions, stating, "Understanding ethical considerations can help us formulate research questions that adhere to ethical standards and prioritize the well-being of participants."
𝑴𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒖𝒂𝒏𝒆𝒔: 𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒓 𝑩𝒂𝒏𝒆 The Public ForumIn a bid to hear public perceptions on mining in the island province, the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) organized a public forum on mining held on December 11, 2023, which was attended by various groups of individuals from different sectors, highlighting the adverse environmental impact of mining and calling for climate justice. In his remarks, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza told the attendees that Catandunganons 'must never mortgage' the future."Ang buhay kan masunod na henerasyon dae ta dapat isangla ta bako ta an," he strongly declared. "This resounding 'No to mining from our children, from our future' is heard by no less than those who hold power than those who do not have the power, and I hope those who hold the power should be able to not just listen but put into their hearts that Catanduanes is not for mining," the president added. Meanwhile, one of the speakers from the Catanduanes Clean and Green Movement urged everyone to demand climate justice in the province. The three presidents of student councils from Catanduanes Colleges, CatSU, and Christian Polytechnic Institute of Catanduanes (CPIC) encouraged their fellow youth leaders to stand for the anti-mining campaign to preserve the pristine beauty of the 'Happy Island's nature. "As youth, meron dapat tayong paninindigan. Pangalagaan natin [ang isla] dahil ito ay regalo lamang ng Panginoon. Tayo lang naman ang maapektuhan at iilan lamang ang mabebenipisyuhan," Christal Joy M. Tindugan, CPIC Student Council president, implored. Invited resource speakers talked about the environmental impacts of coal mining via Zoom, and different leaders of religious groups and sectors provided insightful discussions on mining. The moderator of the forum was retired professor Juanita Cervantes who was joined also by the university's students, employees, and key officials.
The Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Abaca Technology Innovation Center (ATIC), in collaboration with the Research and Development Services (R&DS), organized a stakeholders' consultative forum and planning workshop for Calendar Year 2024, with the theme 'Sustainable RD & E Activities and Technologies for a Resilient Future of the Abaca Industry' held on December 11, 2023, at the E-Crown Hotel and Resort in San Vicente, Virac, Catanduanes.CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza graced the event, along with Governor Joseph C. Cua represented by Provincial Agriculturist Ace William R. Tria, Department of Science and Technology-Provincial Science and Technology (DOST-PSTO) Director Engr. Marie Grace T. Molina, PhilFIDA Provincial Fiber Officer Roberto B. Lusuegro, Career Scientist I and RD Leader Dr. Leny C. Galvez, and other key officials. Displayed inside the venue were abaca-inspired artworks and abaca-based research outputs.
Learning the rudimentary of research writing, over 50 faculty-researchers of the Catanduanes State University - College of Health Sciences (CatSU-CHS) gained insights from a pool of experts on the first day of their capacity-building seminar on Wednesday, January 10. The aim of the said activity is not just for professional development but to strengthen the research skills of the faculty and to conduct a study with a meaningful and lifelong impact on the community, shared by CHS Dean Dr. Maria Alma V. Tabirara. For Executive Vice President Dr. Roberto B. Barba Jr., who served as the representative of the university president, the very purpose of such undertaking is to ‘develop the research culture in the university’, and he advised the newbie in the field of research to learn the A-B pattern. Serving as the first lecturer, Research and Development Services Director Dr. Jose Z. Tria provided possible topics in health sciences such as health governance, communicable diseases, maternal and child health, food scarcity and security, and mental health. The university research director also tackled the benefits and incentives in research publication, ranging from P80,000 to P3,000 cash, and added that if a study clinched the highest distinction in Uswag Award, a researcher is eligible to receive P10,000. Apart from the research perks, the seminar also shed light on the ethical considerations in conducting a study especially involving animal and human subjects. Dr. Lilibeth Tubalinal delved into research ethics as this ‘protects human participants over science'. "It is not merely a guideline but a commitment to upholding the values of integrity, respect, and responsibility,' Dr. Tubalinal underscored. In the afternoon session, Dr. Marianne Castilla delivered another lecture on qualitative research. She cited her first research project as an example which revolved around 'Santigwar’, Bikolano folk way of healing. "Qualitative research builds understanding of social phenomena," she explained. The session of the first day concluded with the practical tips and strategies shared by Dr. Tria on the topic 'Review of Related Literature (RRL)'. The three-day event, which runs from January 10-12, is spearheaded by the CatSU-CHS Research Coordinator Dr. John F. Villegas, held at E-Crown Hotel and Resort.
Amidst the numerous academic learning spaces inside the Catanduanes State University (CatSU), it is a haven for dreamers who dare to materialize their imaginations into artfully crafted realities- 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝑺𝑼 𝑭𝒂𝒃𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑳𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚.For the Fablab manager, Mr. Edmund Salvador, the smell of burnt wood and the mechanical whirring sounds of the 3D printers inside the CatSU FabLab is a continuous proof of the university’s innovation in pursuing excellent artistry. With the FabLab building, creative aspirations would not require laborious effort and time to become tangible masterpieces.“Noong wala pang FabLab, mano-manong ginagawa ang mga disenyo at kailangan [talagang] maglaan ng sapat na oras upang magawa ang isang proyekto/produkto. Ang mga estudyante [rin] ay hindi gaano o walang masyadong alam sa paggamit ng digital printers,” Mr. Salvador said, highlighting how the FabLab helped birth creative geniuses inside the campus.“Ngayon ang mga estudyante mismo ay nahahawakan at nao-operate ang 3D printed machine, mas naging creative ang concept ng mga estudyante sa pagdisenyo. Nabigyan ng pagkakataon ang estudyante, teaching and non-teaching [staff] na gumawa ng mga disenyo gamit ang advanced digital manufacturing technology.”Meanwhile, for students like Jeremiah M. Arevalo, 2nd Year Mechanical Technology student, the CatSU FabLab is an avenue for them to further hone their craft.“Dakolang tabang po sako [ang FabLab], sa alog kong students ‘ta may bago nanaman na namatidan. Dakolang tabang po sako ta permi po adiyan sila Ma'am Jeiscelle S. Tomagan, Ma'am Evelyn Romero, and Sir Edmund Salvador para po tabangan ako para makamatid sa pagkumpuni buda mag-engage sa FabLab.”Apart from supporting technology-driven product innovation and prototyping, the CatSU FabLab also opens its doors to locally produced handicrafts, converging technology, arts, and indigenous materials.“[Mahalaga na ma-involve ang students sa paggawa ng local products] para po maipasa ‘mi sa ibang henerasyon [at] ma-sustain po ang pag gibo ning mga local products uya sa Catanduanes,” Jeremiah added, mentioning that he started making locally produced crafts when he was still in 8th grade. As CatSU continues its pursuit of knowledge and academic excellence, the university also places a premium on the profound impact on the ones that breathe life into our existence- the arts. A celebration of love for the arts, the CatSU FabLab is where visions become reality and reality becomes what we envision. #AClemente
Where wooden plaques, custom-made accessories, and displays were intricately carved and made, this space — the 𝑼𝒏𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝑭𝒂𝒃𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑳𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚, is outfitted with high-powered carving machines to create local products that embody Catandunganons’ creativity and ingenuity. Situated on the left wing of the University, this facility has carved a niche for itself in the hearts of locals and visitors with its high-quality arts and crafts. At the core of these innovations are the high-powered carving machines, including a CO2 laser cutting and engraving machine, enhanced with an all-in-one Multi-tool 3D printer, a Desktop Plastic 3D Printer, and a Carbon Fiber 3D printer capable of engraving images and text into wood within minutes.All this equipment was managed by the talented and skillful hands of the Fablab designated manager, Prof. Edmund Salvador, with his empowered staff and the steadfast support of the university’s College of Industrial and Technology (CIT). Adjacent to the facility is an office dedicated to indigenous and recycled materials, where CIT students meticulously refine handicrafts. These include items like baskets, vases, bracelets, and key chains, to name a few. Expanding its reach, the facility opens its doors to everyone, offering basic training for willing individuals to enhance the competitiveness of their products and expand their market. This initiative aims to inspire people and unlock their potential to become entrepreneurs in their own right through the humble office. With a hub where artistry knows no bounds, the facility helps local products reach new heights and compete with the ever-changing world. #AClemente
In its quest to emphasize the significance of ethical and effective communication, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUMSS), in collaboration with the English Language and Speech Communication Services (ESLCOM) and Sentro ng Wika at Kulturang Filipino, culminated one of its unique seminar titled “Communication Next in Industries 3.0”, at the university gymnasium, Tuesday, November 6, 2023.The seminar’s primary goal is to bridge the gap between theory and practice in guiding students on the practical application of communication in achieving their career aspirations. “Communication has taken the backseat for a quite a time now and it is but fitting to bring it back to the forefront”, ESLCOM Director, Prof. Reashiela L. Khan shared.“We are happy and with high hopes that this event will help in providing a platform for our professionals from diverse industries as they share their insights, best practices, and real-world experiences that are related to effective communication within their specific work environment”, she added.Meanwhile, Dr. Jimmylen Z. Tonio, Dean of CHUMSS said that it aims to identify and explore the unique communication challenges and opportunities that exist within various industries.Ms. Ruby V. Dapetillo, Senior Manager in the Program Analysis Division of GMA 7 network, served as the Keynote Speaker. Ms. Dapetillo is a dedicated member of GMA Network since 2001, with primary responsibilities encompassing content reviews and the provision of management recommendations based on TV ratings and audience shares.“I’m always happy to share my experiences to young people. In fact, I had this sudden feeling of interest for a teaching job soon after I spoke to our dear CatSUans; it was a very fulfilling experience to have them as my audience”, she gladly shared. Ms. Dapetillo is a distinguished CatSU alumna, a pride of Catanduanes State Colleges Elementary Laboratory and Laboratory High School batch 93 and 97, respectively. She finished her baccalaureate degree in UP Diliman as Cum Laude. The seminar also had the following as resource speakers: Mr. Ferdinand M. Brizo, Station Manager and Editor-in-Chief of Radyo Peryodiko/Bicol Peryodiko, who discussed the topic on Communication 101: Leveraging Social Media and Online Tools for Promotion; Mr. Genesis V. Efondo, owner of Café de Au and Yahay Farm, with his topic on Counting Success: Crafting Messages that Resonate with Audiences; Ms. Kayzyll T. Abundo, a Marketing copyrighter in Rocketstation, Texas, USA, shared about TALK Plus (Technical Acumen and Language Knowledge Plus).Other equally significant speakers include Dr. Vietrez D. Abella, EBMC’s Chief who gave her share on WonderTalk in Times of Crises, and Dr. Aida A. Dianela, the former Vice President for Academic Affairs in CatSU and now serving as Training Consultant at ARDCI Microfinance Inc., discussed The Missing Equation: Cracking the Code to Fluent English Communication.The event was participated in by college and senior students enrolled in GEC5 Purposive Communication, and students from the newest program of CHUMSS, Bachelor of Arts in English Language. #CIV
