In order to address the high demand for internationalization in Philippine Higher Education Institutions, the Quality Assurance Services (QAS) collaborated with the Center for International Relations and Continuing Professional Development Services (CIRCPDS) to conduct a Seminar-Workshop on March 17, 2023.The objective of the workshop was to strengthen international linkages initiatives and to discuss the University’s internationalization framework.The event was held in the Accreditation Room and was attended by CatSU top officials, College Deans and their respective Chairpersons, and the Unit Directors or Office Heads.The Resource Speaker, Prof. Zyra Mae T. Tumala, who is also the International Relations Director, gave a brief overview of the Philippine government’s initiatives since 1987 and discussed the Structure and Operations of the International Relations office.The seminar-workshop focused on developing and implementing the Internationalization Strategy towards Quality Assurance, developing best practices, scholarship opportunities such as short and long-term programs (including Fullbright, UMAP, MEXT among others), and CatSU’s vision and target projection for the next five years on Internationalization Initiatives.Dr. Edna A. Pante, the QA Head, emphasized the need to set a clear direction for internationalization initiatives, formalize a structure, and formulate implementing guidelines as competition is now international in scope.“A very clear direction has to be set for internationalization initiatives, therefore the formalization of a structure and formulation of implementing guidelines are pivotal,” Dr. Pante emphasized.Dr. Lily P. Custodio, Executive Vice President, commended Directors Pante and Tumala and all participants for a job well done, stressing the need for cooperation to achieve CatSU’s internationalization goals.“It is in our strong support to each other, the collaborative efforts we evidently have, in supporting the administration’s vision of HOPE, and all the hard work that we do, that we can fulfill our mission of putting CatSU on the global scale,” Dr. Custodio said.Dr. Joseph G. Zafe, former Director of CIRCPDS, and now the newly appointed Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs, regarded the reorientation to cover internationalization initiatives as a strong action to produce globally-competitive graduates.The whole day seminar-workshop concluded with the presentation of outputs from each group of active participants.Prof. Tumala shared her excitement and motivation, realizing the opportunities to focus on and having a visionary and supportive President, Dr. Azanza, at the helm. She believed that with determination and strength, CatSU could fulfill its mission of putting itself on the global scale. #CVecilles
To strengthen the research efforts and collaboration for Catanduanes State University (CatSU), Dr. Jose Z. Tria, the Director of Research and Development Services (RDS), and Prof. Abelisa D. Evangelista, the Director of Abaca Technology and Innovations Center (ATIC), attended the Research Development and Extension Strategic Planning and Workshop at Patio de San Jose Resort and Convention Center at Malilipot, Albay on March 1-3, 2023.The workshop was organized by the Bicol Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (BCAARRD), with twenty-two consortium member institutions (CMIs) in attendance.During the workshop, Dr. Tria and Prof. Evangelista engaged in knowledge-sharing and discussions on a wide range of themes such as research areas of BCAARRD, strategic R&D roadmap for land-based agriculture and fisheries/marine science, and developing action plans through the lens of Futures Thinking.The workshop also covered topics like Research Development and Extension agenda, thrust, and priorities, Philippine development plans for 2023-2028, the national innovation agenda 2032, and Bicol Regional Development plans.Notable resource speakers for the three-day workshop included Dr. Arnulfo M. Mascariñas, Chair, RRDCC, Dr. Lester M. Narvaez, Dr. Marissa N. Estrella, Deputy Director, and Director of BCAARRD, respectively.As a result of their attendance, research centers such as RDS and ATIC brainstormed and agreed to create strategic plans through collaboration with the Office of Vice President, REPA, Deans/Department Chairs and Research Coordinators, and Faculty members as well as faculty researchers, by having orientation and re-orientation for Research Coordinators about the trends and updates of BCAARD, and assist them in preparing and the submission of consortium-type research proposals.“We want to integrate new learnings and policies to gain from Futures thinking approach of strategic planning, as well as revisit and improve, integrate and re-harmonize the University research agenda to the regional RD&E thrusts and priorities.”, Dr. Tria said. BCAARRD expressed its appreciation to all the attendees and participating CMIs for their contributions to the success of the workshop and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration among CMIs to achieve sustainable regional development. #CVecilles
To promote awareness and preparedness among students and faculty, the Incident and Calamity Operations (ICO) conducted an Earthquake Drill on March 16, 2023, headed by its Commander, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza and assisted by Prof. Emlyn M. Lanon, In-charge of Continuing Education, Training, Drills, and Calamity Awareness Campaign.The Earthquake Drill was held in relation to the Memoranda from the RDRRMC regarding the regional conduct of the 1st Quarter National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) 2023. Students and employees participated in the drill at exactly 2:00 PM.According to Prof. Lanon, this drill is important to develop and practice muscle memory of the duck-cover-and-hold among students and faculty, build resilient communities in the university, and assess the readiness of students and faculty in times of earthquakes. Engr. Benjamin Hannycel T. Nuyda, Planning and Development Services Director, gave an orientation during the conduct of the drill, while Dr. Ryan T. Timbal, Head of CatSU Security Services, provided necessary assistance and monitoring during the activity. #CVecilles
CatSU Internal Audit Team Head, Engr. Rafael O. Santelices, conducted an ISO 9001:2015 training awareness session at the Accreditation Room on March 7, 2023. The aim of the training was to enhance the knowledge of the newly designated Heads of Offices and Directors regarding the fundamentals of the ISO 9001:2015 Standard.“The adoption of a quality management system is a strategic decision for an organization. In our case at CatSU, we always want to continually improve overall performance and provide quality services to our clients and stakeholders,” Engr. Santelices said.The Internal Audit Services is the university's unit responsible for facilitating opportunities to enhance the clientele's service experience. They ensure that service delivery is demonstrated in conformity to the specified quality management system requirements, based on the international standard for ISO 9001:2015. “Let us always intensify the connection and processes in organizing quality policy and adhering to the quality standards. It is in providing the best quality services that will yield excellent customer satisfaction,” Engr. Santelices emphasized.One of the participants, Prof. John Cyrus B. Francis, Director of the Office of Student Affairs and Development Services (OSADS), emphasized the significance of being aware of the intention of the ISO and being fully guided in terms of office document familiarization.“We will need to be able to identify correction-immediate action in order to solve issues and concerns on a per cause-basis. There’s the preventive action as well as corrective action, best practices to pick up in order to achieve the consistency of providing quality services to the students, very useful in my case being the office that takes charge of student affairs and development concerns,” Prof. Francis said."Ultimately, we are bound to understand the fundamentals of Quality Management Systems parallel to the State College and University (SUC) standards, and the Vision, Mission, and Developmental Goals of CatSU,” he added.Prof. Gregorio Angeles, Jr., Extension Coordinator from CatSU Panganiban Campus, recalled his learnings from the activity."The core of ISO is customer satisfaction. It is in our commitment and strong-will to continue the thrusts and efforts for improvement, and to ensure the attainment of excellence in quality management for societal advancement, that we can achieve customer satisfaction,” Prof. Angeles said. #CVecilles
CatSU-Koro Hubilyo proudly presented their learnings from the Empowerment and Development of University Choirs (EDUC) Program's culminating activity, organized by the Philippine Madrigal Singers and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), held on March 12, 2023.The Philippine Madrigal Singers, a renowned musical group, mentored and trained aspiring singers and chorale groups from selected higher education institutions in the Philippines through sessions on vocal and conducting techniques, choral literature, and arts management. Prof. Mark Anthony Carpio, Artistic Director and Choirmaster, along with Prof. Joey G. Vargas and Prof. Anna Tabita Abeleda-Piquero facilitated the online sessions.CatSU Koro Hubilyo was grateful for being one of the groups chosen to participate in the program and expressed their appreciation. The EDUC program helped them enhance their singing techniques and deepen their appreciation for choral music.During the culminating activity, all the participating groups showcased their pre-recorded performances through the Philippine Madrigal Singers' YouTube channel, celebrating Filipino culture and music. The event showcased how music can unite people, inspire them, and foster a sense of community - an embodiment of a Singing Philippines.The EDUC program not only improved the group's skills but also provided them with an unforgettable experience.The platform enabled them to showcase their talents, interact with fellow music enthusiasts, and learn from industry experts.The CatSU Koro Hubilyo is a major performing musical group in Catanduanes State University, emphasizing Bicol cultural music to preserve and promote the rich culture of the province.Founded in 2020 by Dr. Jose Z. Tria, the group comprises students from various programs in the institution and performs various musical genres. The name "Hubilz" combines the Bicol term "koro," which means choir, and "hubilyo," which means tying threads of abaca fibers to produce a strong rope. It signifies the group's mission to bring together diverse voices and instruments to produce a harmonious and well-balanced musical group.Today, Hubilz is on a mission to spread music throughout the island of Catanduanes. #CCS
To ensure that the plans and programs under the Vision of HOPE are properly implemented, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza created the position of Executive Vice President, a first for the institution in 62 years. Because of her integrity and proven track record as a faculty member and an administrator, the first Executive Vice President came on top of the list and personal choice for Dr. Azanza. Upon approval by the Board, he recommended the designation of Dr. Lily P. Custodio – and was endorsed as the first ever Executive Vice President of Catanduanes State University by the Administrative Council during its meeting on January 9, 2023. Her designation was unanimously approved by the Board of Regents during its 212th (Regular)/4th Quarter Board of Regents Meeting on January 18, 2023. As EVP, Dr. Custodio holds the second highest position in terms of authority.Fondly called "Doc Lily" by many, she graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Commerce Major in Accounting from the Catanduanes State Colleges (CSC) in 1979, and subsequently became a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).Dr. Custodio completed her Master of Science in Management, Major in Business Administration in 1989, where she received the Outstanding Research award for her thesis titled "Comparative Cases of Growth Rates Among Small Scale Manufacturing Businesses in Region V: Implications to Financial Management."She was among the faculty members sent to study in Australia for her graduate studies during the time of then visionary CSC President, Dr. Rodolfo V. Azanza, the father of the present CatSU President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza.She finished her Master of Educational Administration (MEdAd) at Flinders University of South Australia and continued to pursue her Post Graduate studies in the same institution, earning her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Strategic Management in 1996 with a dissertation titled "Career Perceptions in the Philippines: Study of Academic Executives."Dr. Custodio began her CatSU journey in 1980 as an Instructor and climbed up the ranks, achieving her current academic position as Professor VI.She also served as the Dean of the College of Business and Accountancy from 1998 to 2009, and held several administrative designations, leading major divisions such as Academic Affairs (AA), Administrative & Financial Affairs (AFA), and Research, Extension and Production Affairs (REPA).She also chaired the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) and served as the Dean of the Graduate School.Prior to her appointment as the first ever CatSU Executive Vice President, Dr. Custodio was the Vice President for Academic Affairs. In this role, she worked hard with the President to create 11 new academic programs, including those that required accreditation.As EVP, Dr. Custodio's principal responsibilities include overseeing and administering the planning process of the University, providing leadership to all academic programs and Units, leading the assessment of the University's strategic plan, promoting linkage and modification of academic programs to meet the evolving missions of the University, aligning academic programs with the University's strategic plan, and meeting the needs of students and faculty.The EVP is also expected to provide leadership to departments and offices responsible for the following functions: diversity and equal opportunity, external academic affairs, faculty development, academic assessment, institutional research, international programs, undergraduate affairs, and others as assigned.Furthermore, she is expected to provide leadership and guidance to all College Deans to enhance effective operation, cost efficiency, and high-quality academic programs while working with all constituency groups to ensure that the University's academic programs have achieved or are approaching high national ranking or are well-placed with respect to the University's peer or aspirational benchmark group.Lastly, the EVP is responsible for ensuring effective communication with the Office of the President, monitoring the agenda for inclusion in different councils such as the Administrative Council, Academic Council, University Research Council and Extension Council, and Resource Generation and Utilization Council.With her exceptional knowledge, intellect, and leadership skills, Dr. Lily P. Custodio is undeniably the ideal one for the position. #CVecilles
The Shared Services Facility (SSF) or Foodlab Center, under the auspices of CatSU College of Industrial Technology (CIT), was filled with bakers and local pili processors participating in a Skills Training on Pili-based pastries held on Friday, March 10, 2023.The training is a collaborative project of CatSU CIT and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) under its One Town product (OTOP) program, aimed at developing food products utilizing pili nuts as one of the main ingredients to strengthen the Pili Industry Cluster of the province.“We are always excited about skills training like this being held here in CatSU and really glad to note that we are a part of the community members’ learning and growth in business,” said Ms. Jessa Tria, CatSU SSF Supervisor.DTI Provincial Director Ma. Belma Q. Escueta expressed her gratitude and thanks to CatSU President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, for the strong partnership and providing a venue within the CatSU premises for business learnings and undertakings.Dr. Azanza responded that the university is here to serve a purpose, not just for its students and clientele, but for the community as a whole.“The university is for everybody; we exist not just as a higher learning institution in developing students to become future professionals, but also as a university that offers its services, expertise, and resources to help every individual in building their dreams and creating value-laden lives."Pastry Chef Marlon Dy, an Albay-based Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprise engaged in the same line of business, served as the Guest Trainer for the day. Mr. Dy shared his Mayon Treats recipes and techniques and was also joined by Mr. Medel Pasion of RFM Corp. #CVecilles
As part of the current administration's efforts to provide the best quality of education to its students, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) President, attended the EduCanada Pathways to Partnerships: Higher Education Forum held on March 8, 2023, at the Makati Diamond Residences in Makati City.During the forum, Dr. Azanza and his wife, Prof. Jane Rose C. Azanza, met with Canadian Ambassador David Hartman and exchanged discussions about the higher education sector, various approaches towards internationalization, including plans and programs useful to education delivery and research, as well as potential opportunities for collaboration towards internationalization.The event was attended by representatives of Canadian colleges and representatives from state universities and colleges (SUCs) in the Philippines."As we aim to achieve our target sustainable development goals for the university, it is very important and useful to become a part of this forum as we will also be able to apply and mirror the partnership opportunities here in CatSU," Dr. Azanza said.Presentations during the forum included an overview of Canadian colleges, institutes, and polytechnics to establish international partnerships, delivering micro-credentials, and enriching applied research. Moreover, the forum highlighted the one-on-one meetings between Canadian and Philippine Higher Education institutions, including Catanduanes State University. #CVecilles
The Catanduanes State University (CatSU) College of Engineering and Architecture's BS in Computer Engineering (CEA BSCpE) sent off its sixty-seven (67) fourth-year students and two (2) faculty coordinators, Engr. Ronnie B. Santelices and Engr. Morris U. Aquino, for a week-long educational tour in Metro Manila on February 26, 2023.The tour aimed to ensure a sustainable teaching and learning delivery process and included extracurricular pursuits to increase the students' learning chances and develop the connection between academia and industry in line with the Computer Engineering program criteria.Engr. Santelices, the Computer Engineering Department Chair, stated that these extracurricular activities were designed to support and help students have a more fulfilling learning experience outside the regular classroom teaching programs.During the tour, the students visited several notable institutions. At the PAGASA Science Garden in Diliman, Quezon City, they observed cutting-edge technology used to provide weather-related information, goods, and services, making communities more resilient to typhoons, floods, landslides, and other extreme weather events.The students also went to the DOST Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI) and the DOST Electronic Product Development Center (DOST-EPDC), both in Diliman, Quezon City. They were introduced to the scientific research and development of advanced domains like information and communications technology, microelectronics, and the provision of prototype design and fabrication of printed circuit boards (PCB) and electronic product testing.The tour also included a visit to Hytec Power Incorporated in Novaliches, Quezon City. Here, students learned about the provision of consistent industrial solutions to common industry problems to increase job productivity, operational efficiency, workplace safety, and job skill mismatch solutions.Another stop was Packetworx IoT Technology Hub in Ortigas Center, Pasig, Metro Manila. Packetworx is the leading source of hardware and software solutions for system integrators and developers to use in the development of various IoT solutions.Included in the itinerary also was the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) - College of Engineering and Architecture in Sta. Mesa, Manila. The students saw the college's technological advancement in computer laboratories and equipment that provides greater opportunity for students.The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde was also visited, where the Multimedia Arts curriculum combines essential skills such as communication, programming, and graphic design with cutting-edge technology like digital media and the Internet.Lastly, the group visited the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Taguig City. TESDA is mandated to establish an accreditation system for institutions engaged in middle-level manpower development and support technical education and skills development programs and initiatives. The Green Technology Center, Technology, Research and Development Division, Competence Assessment Division, Mechatronics Labs, and Learning Development Division were all made open to students.“We are thankful to our College Dean, Engr. Pedro A. Arcilla, Jr., and of course to our SUC President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, for all the support and guidance in this educational trip for our students. Our senior students are also grateful for the approval by our officials, that they have been sent to do fish bowling, have been given access to effective and engaging learning experience through worthwhile off-campus activities, and ultimately, have been given the chance of getting a taste of the real world,” Engr. Aquino said. #CVecilles
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) and the Department of Interior Local Governance (DILG) of the province recently met on March 8, 2023, to discuss a potential partnership aimed at empowering local government units (LGUs) through training.The meeting was held at the DILG provincial office, with Provincial Director Uldarico Razal, Jr., and Dr. Ramon Felipe A. Sarmiento, the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs of CatSU.The partnership aims to provide basic training on parliamentary procedure, writing ordinances and minutes, resolutions, and other related skills to communities to help them govern themselves effectively.These trainings will be made available to LGUs in the province to enhance their capacity and capability to govern. Both parties expressed their enthusiasm and commitment to the partnership, which they believe will have a positive impact on the province's communities.Dr. Sarmiento shared the importance of empowering LGUs to achieve inclusive and sustainable growth."We believe that empowering the LGUs through training will lead to more efficient and effective governance, which will ultimately benefit the people of the province,” Dr. Sarmiento said.PD Razal, Jr. also expressed his appreciation for the partnership, saying that the DILG is committed to working with CatSU to provide the necessary training to LGUs in the province.He also shared that the DILG Office has reference books where students from CatSU can use in their research.“Igwa kami uyang corner na magagamit nin mga estudyante nin CatSU para sa researches manungod sa local governance. Parte pa ini nin satuyang partnership. Bukas kami pirmi sa anuman na makatabang nin opisina,” the DILG Provincial Director said.The training is expected to start soon, and both parties hope that it will result in better governance and improved quality of life for the province's communities. With this partnership, CatSU and DILG are taking a step towards empowering LGUs and building a stronger, more resilient province. #FJBT
The Catanduanes State University, College of Business and Accountancy (CatSU CBA) in collaboration with the Department of Trade & Industry Catanduanes Provincial Office (DTI-CPO), led by its Director, Ms. Maria Belma Q. Escueta, spearheaded a forum with government agencies at the University Accreditation Room on March 9, 2023.The orientation-forum was participated by CatSU-CBA senior students who are currently implementing their business plans."As beginners in putting up a business, we deem it necessary to assist the students in helping them acquire adequate knowledge on the programs, services, and policies by DTI, local government units (LGUs), and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) that business owners and managers must be aware of, especially the start-ups," said Director Escueta.CBA Dean Ian Aranel expressed his gratitude to DTI for this important undertaking and regarded it as true entrepreneurial support."This is similar to a business readiness training and empowerment seminar. We are thankful to all the participants as well as to DTI for helping us achieve strengthened education. It is important that we prepare our students by providing on-the-job training, youth leadership learnings about business and workforce development systems," Prof. Aranel remarked. He further believes that with cooperation and strong support from government agencies, growth can be truly inclusive and provide an opportunity for a better tomorrow for our youth today. #Cvecilles
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, shared the exciting news on his Facebook account that CatSU will soon offer a Master of Arts in Nursing program in the island.According to Dr. Azanza, the CatSU College of Nursing passed the Technical Panel Evaluation that began in November 2022. Once the resolution is signed, it will be forwarded to the CHED en Banc for approval.“The university has been dreaming of offering this program for over 15 years, and now islanders will have the opportunity to pursue their graduate degree in Nursing without having to spend a lot of money to cross to the mainland,” Dr. Azanza shared.The SUC President III of CatSU attributed the success of achieving the MA Nursing permit to "Teamwork".He commended the team, composed of the Executive Vice President (EVP) Dr. Lily P. Custodio, then Vice President for Academic Affairs, Vice President Dr. Bernardino C. Abundo, then Asst. Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Dean Joel T. Olfindo, for their relentless efforts to make this happen.The president expressed his gratitude to CatSU Board of Regents Chairman and the Commission on Higher Education Commissioner, Dr. Aldrin A. Darilag, CHED Regional Director, Atty. Septon Dela Cruz, and CHED RO V Education Specialist, Dr. Pamela S. Viñas, a CatSU Nursing alumna, for their all-out support in securing the MAN permit.He also announced that CatSU has secured a budget of 15 million pesos to upgrade the university's Nursing Laboratory facilities. He hopes to bring back the glory days of CatSU and be recognized as one of the top nursing schools in the country in terms of passing rates and having graduates who top or are in the top 10 of the Nursing Board Examination.Dr. Azanza is optimistic that with the strong support and cooperation from everyone, the university's goals are achievable. He also believes that with the leadership of Dr. Gemma G. Acedo and Dr. Joseph G. Zafe, the Vice President, and the Asst. Vice President for Academic Affairs, respectively, the permits for Law and Medicine, which are currently underway, will also yield positive results. #CVecilles
