After 62 years, the students of Catanduanes State University (CatSU) will finally have their own building to be managed by the student council.This was the good news shared by CatSU President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza in his Facebook account.According to his post, under the General Appropriations Act 2023, the first phase of the Student Development Center, worth 25 million pesos, has been approved as one of the major projects of the current administration. The center will house all the student body organizations of each college of CatSU, together with the Office of Student Services and the Office of Student Scholarships and Assistance. Construction will commence this March 2023.He also said that the building will be equipped with meeting rooms and a student lounge with internet connection. The building will be constructed adjacent to the Men’s Dorm which is a walking distance to the Ladies Dorm, and the Sports Complex.Once completed, the building will be turned over to the Federated College Student Council (FCSC) for them to manage and decide how to use the facility. The FCSC, having its own bank account, holds the responsibility of deciding how to spend student funds, subject to COA rules, the CatSU President added.Dr. Azanza also recognized the efforts of Former Student Regent Renz Mickenley T. Tanael, now a Municipal Councilor of the Municipality of Bato, who was also part of the planning of this project. He also thanked the incumbent Student Regent Angelo Piolo M. Laynes who also extended his support to this initiative.Moreover, Dr. Azanza said that with the construction of the Student Development Center, CatSU students can look forward to having a space of their own for activities and events, as well as a center for student services and assistance. #FJBT
Dr. Balunsay is an Associate Professor V at Catanduanes State University's College of Humanities and Social Sciences. He is currently the director of the Sentro ng Wika at Kultura, an office created by the SUC President III, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, and approved by the Board of Regents in January 2022.Among his administrative designations, Dr. Balunsay served as the Graduate School Chairperson for Non Education-related graduate programs in 2021, and was previously the research coordinator at the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS). He also guided the CatSU Statesman, the university's student publication as its former adviser.From his teaching experience at DepEd in Sto. Domingo National High School in Sto. Domingo, Albay, Dr. Balunsay transferred to CatSU and began his journey in 2013 as an Instructor I. This was the start of his rising through the ranks to his current position. Dr. Balunsay has provided expert services in Research with involvement in committees covering Specialization for Undergraduate Thesis in the different programs in the College of Education, as well as in Filipino, Graduate School Level IV, and the Accreditation Task Force for Master of Arts in Filipino Education. He also served as a committee member for its Dissertation.With his expertise, he has become one of the most sought-after resource persons for Consultancy services, serving as a Panelist/Evaluator for Master's Thesis, editor and adviser of Masters in undergraduate thesis, and a LET Review lecturer. He also takes resource speakership as well.Recently, Dr. Balunsay was pleased to share the availability of physical copies of the copyrighted books which were outputs of his research in CatSU. These research outputs are for utilization in some Filipino subjects in CatSU."All outputs were submitted to the National Library for copyright registration and were approved in December 2022," Dr. Balunsay said."I am really motivated because I get to discover new knowledge, and because of that, I am more driven to create and finish instructional materials that could help our students," he added. Dr. Balunsay remarked that students need to be supported in terms of helping them understand, especially Education students, that research and teaching are two essential things they need to learn to produce higher learning outcomes, which is a vital effort in improving our quality of instruction. #CVecilles
Passing the Licensure Examination for Teachers is part of the registration process for obtaining a license to be considered a professional teacher, as stipulated in RA 7836 or the "Act to Strengthen the Regulation and Supervision of the Practice of Teaching in the Philippines and Prescribing a Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) and for other purposes."The Catanduanes State University College of Education (CatSU-COEd) is the only Higher Education Institution (HEI) on the island that offers various teacher education programs, including Bachelor in Elementary Education, Bachelor in Secondary Education, Bachelor of Culture and Education (BCAEd), Bachelor in Physical Education, and Bachelor of Technical – Vocational Education (BTVTEd). The Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSED) has six specializations: English, Filipino, Science, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Values Education. Like other HEIs or Technical Education Institutions (TEIs) in the country, CatSU-COEd aims to produce a high percentage of LET passers and, most importantly, topnotchers.In the almost two years of struggling with online learning due to the pandemic brought by the Covid-19 virus, the world's situation was nearly chaotic, and all aspects of life were adversely affected, particularly the education sector.It is for this reason that Dr. Maria Sheila R. Gregorio, Dean of the College of Education, came up with an idea on how to assist especially the COEd graduates of SY 2021-2022. Along with her able group of faculties who started it all through informal talks and merienda cena meetings, PAGGIYA was born. "PAGGIYA is a Pre-Board Examination Program that aims to help our newly Education graduates be prepared for the tough challenge," said Dr. Gregorio.PAGGIYA was a brainchild of Dr. Gregorio when she was still a member of the Faculty in February 2022, who decided to approach the then Vice President for Academic Affairs, now Executive Vice President, Dr. Lily P. Custodio, along with the rest of the COEd faculties, to propose PAGGIYA.Upon Dr. Custodio's recommendation, the proposal was approved by the SUC President III, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza.A total of 185 CoEd graduates mainly from the CatSU Main, and Panganiban campuses registered for the March 7, 2023, Pre-Board Examination."We are happy to note that we did not only cater to our very own graduates of 2022. During the registration period, a number of graduates from other schools outside CatSU and the island came and requested to participate since they have not been able to go through a formal review in a center due to a lack of financial capacity," Dr. Gregorio proudly shared.PAGGIYA's objectives include orienting and reorienting teacher education graduates to the LET process, conducting the pre-board exam for teachers, evaluating the results towards conducting the LET Enhancement Program, and continuing to provide it to teacher education graduates, ultimately ensuring that teacher education graduates will pass and top the March 2023 LET."This is just the first step. Our robust faculty who contributed to formulating the test questions and all other guidelines for the pre-board exam will evaluate and identify the points of weaknesses and where to focus strength on, conduct final coaching, as we proceed to the next step, which is the Enhancement Review," Dr. Gregorio said. The Enhancement Review is set on March 13, 2023, at the CatSU Auditorium, with Ryan A. De Mesa, LPT, MAEM, iMind Review Coordinator, and National Reviewer for Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET), Civil Service Examination (CSE), and National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) examination. “This is a collaborative effort from amongst the core faculty of College of Education and College of Humanities and Social Sciences, and College of Science. With the teamwork and cooperation from everybody, I am hopeful that these activities will yield us positive results, towards achieving our goals”, Dr. Gregorio concluded.It is worth noting that Dr. Azanza announced on his Facebook page on March 1, 2022, that he had made efforts to bring board review sessions to the island, with CatSU providing the venue, and the best reviewers being assigned for CatSU students at negotiated reasonable rates from review centers. He also initiated the efforts of finding sources of incentives for CatSU students who will top the board exam: 50K cash for those who will land in the Top 10 and 100K for Top 1. #CVecilles
On his fourth visit to Catanduanes State University (CatSU), Professor Satoshi Kubota of Kochi University, Japan shared about Biotechnology/Molecular Systems of Food Resources and Aquatic Organisms with the professors and students at the CatSU Conference Room on March 1, 2023.Dr. Kubota specifically discussed Collaborative Research under Kuroshio Science Network including the region’s History and Current Status of Biotechnological Research. He also related the Outcomes-Based Education (OBE) in Higher Education to the Current Status of Biotechnology Education in the Philippines.Kubota sensei also elaborated on the importance of the establishment of a biotechnology laboratory, such as the biotech lab in BUTC where researchers and students can have productive scientific engagements.The Kochi University Research and Education Faculty also introduced Kochi University, the Kuroshio Science Program, and other postgraduate scholarship opportunities to the attendees. The activity concluded with a forum in which Dr. Kubota and the participants discussed possible collaborations and partnerships in the future."We want to strengthen our partnership, and we are always committed to collaborating with Catanduanes State University, especially in knowledge generation and technical support in research," Dr. Kubota said.This was also emphasized by the Japanese professor in his last visit on February 21, 2019, when he said that collaboration is a must, and that the aim at Kochi University is for their students as well as exchange students not to be constrained in the laboratory.Dr. Kristian Q. Aldea, the Assistant Vice-President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs (AVP-REPA), expressed his gratitude for Sensei's timely visit and discussion of biotechnological research updates. According to him, the visit brought new ideas and development to the dynamic biotechnological field, which is applicable in many instructional and research undertakings for students and faculty members alike.Dr. Aldea, a graduate of Doctor of Philosophy in Marine Science at the Benthic Ecology at the Kochi University, Japan, emphasized the need for stronger linkage and collaboration among institutions in the Kuroshio region to achieve regional development. The visit of his Sensei highlighted the importance of biotechnological innovations and their role in advancing the field of marine science.Meanwhile, after his lecture, Dr. Kubota went to the College of Agriculture and Fisheries to check its Soil Laboratory. Several inputs were suggested to the Dean, Professor Jugie Ramos, on how to improve the laboratory's operation.Dr. Kubota, accompanied by Dr. Kristian Q. Aldea, also visited the Agoho Marine Sanctuary in San Andres and the Marilima Sanctuary in Virac. He also visited the Science laboratory of the College of Sciences and met its faculty members.On his arrival on February 28, Dr. Kubota was welcomed by Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, the SUC President III, and Dr. Ramon Felipe A. Sarmiento, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs (VP-REPA), Dr. Kristian Q. Aldea (AVP-REPA), Dr. Jose Z. Tria, Director of Research and Development Services (RDS), and Professor Zyra Mae T. Tumala, Director of the Center for International Relations and Continuing Professional Development Services (CIRCPDS).“Kubota sense's visit highlights the significance of collaborations in academic and research pursuits. Through partnerships and collaborations, institutions can achieve greater heights and contribute to regional development,” Dr. Azanza said. Prior to his visit to CatSU, Dr. Kubota also went to Benguet State University, University of the Philippines Visayas, and Bicol University. He will also visit Partido State University in Goa, Camarines Sur. #FJBT
Matagumpay na nairaos ng Sentro ng Wika at Kultura ang pagsasagawa ng Rizal Forum na may pamagat na “Muling Sulyap sa Mga Natatanging Katha ni Dr. Jose Rizal” sa Pampahalaang Unibersidad ng Catanduanes noong Marso 1, 2023.Pinangunahan ni Dr. Jovert R. Balunsay, Direktor ng Sentro ng Wika at Kultura, ang nasabing talakayan na may layuning linangin ang kaalaman at kasanayang kultural at pampanitikan ng mga kaguruang nagtuturo ng nasabing asignatura.Kasama sa mga dumalo sa gawaing ito ang mga mag-aaral na kumukuha ng General Education Courses na GEC 9 o ang Buhay at mga Akda ni Rizal.Ayon sa Direktor, ang asignaturang ito ay itinuturo sa antas tersarya bilang pagtupad sa mandato ng Republic Act 1425, na lalong kilala sa tawag na Batas Rizal.“Sa naturang batas na ito, iniuutos ang pagtuturo ng talambuhay at mga akda ng pambansang bayani bilang paraan ng paglinang sa patriotismo ng mga mag-aaral sa kolehiyo,” ani ni Dr. Balunsay.Ilan sa mga nagbigay ng panayam ay mga dalubguro na sina Prop. Francis B. Tatel na ibinahagi ang paksang “Si Rizal sa Pananaw ni Ambeth Ocampo,” Dr. Maria Charlene A. Cantar na ibinahagi ang paksang “Muling Sulyap sa mga Tula at Sanaysay ni Rizal,” at Dr. Susan M. Tindugan na nangunasa sa paksang “Mga Nobela ni Rizal: Mga Isyu at Simbolismo.”“Lagi at lagi nating pahahalagahan ang kabayanihang ipinamalas sa atin ng ating pambansang bayani. Ang kanyang buhay ay isang inspirasyon lalo na sa mga kabataang pag-asa ng bayan,” wika ni Dr. Balunsay sa pagtatapos ng nasabing gawain. #FJBT
The Political Science Society (PSS) organized the PSS Cup: The Pandemonium on March 1, 2023, at the CatSU Gymnasium to raise awareness among Political Science students about their crucial role in fighting against misinformation, propaganda, and fake news by advocating for information literacy on various platforms.The event also aimed to foster camaraderie among society members, improve their morale, leadership, and skills, and create an effective organization.The theme of the event, "Strengthening and fortifying one's voice within," encouraged students to showcase their passion and voice through various contests such as Extemporaneous Speech, Photo Essay, Poem Writing, Battle of the Brains, Team-Building Activities and Games, Debate, and Talent Showdown.Atty. Rene John M. Velasco, the guest speaker, emphasized the importance of critical thinking and fact-checking among peers and in communities."As Political Science students, you all played a crucial role in combating misinformation, propaganda, and fake news by advocating for information literacy on various platforms. With your understanding of how politics and media intersect, you can promote critical thinking and fact-checking among your peers and in your communities," Atty. Velasco shared.Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUMSS), Dr. Jimmylen Z. Tonio, supported Atty. Velasco's message to the Political Science students."By sharing accurate and reliable sources of information and encouraging others to do the same, political science students could help prevent the spread of false information and promote a more informed and engaged citizenry," Dean Tonio said.Richard Abenir, the President of PSS, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to develop the abilities of Political Science students to become leaders in the fight against misinformation and help build a better-informed society.Alumni from the CatSU Political Science program also attended the fellowship night's closing activity.Atty. Michael Marquez, Mr. Remelito Cabrera, former Vice Mayor of Panganiban, and presently an Instructor I at CHUMSS, as well as Mr. Jomel T. Romero, Mr. Pastor Marquez, Mr. Jozem Nino I. Morales, who are also Instructors from CHUMSS, Ms. Mary Franz O. Soquerata, Nino Joshua Santelices, Lao Ogerio, Arnel S. Clavo, RJ Vela, Abel Tuzara, and Christian Torrena were among the alumni who attended the event. #FJBT
The Office of Student Affairs and Development Services (OSADS) of Catanduanes State University (CatSU) has started its re-orientation program for all college students for the second semester of the school year 2022-2023. The program aims to educate and inform the students about the existing Student Handbook (version 2018) and other laws related to their behavior, discipline, and conduct as premier university students. The OSADS has set objectives that will enhance the understanding of the students in various academic and non-academic approaches. The students will learn the proper ways of addressing issues and concerns that may arise from time to time in their respective colleges. Specific topics such as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act, Bomb Threats, and Anti-Sexual Harassment Law and Violence Against Women and Children and Safe Space Act will be discussed. In addition, the re-orientation program will include reminders on the use of university facilities, University Traffic Laws and Rules, and Respect and Appreciation for Individual and Socio-Cultural Differences. The program is aimed to educate and equip the students with skills to educate their co-students about the appropriate behavior as a student of a premier university of the Island-province. The OSADS believes that this program will help the students to be aware of the laws that are eminent for human existence and to act accordingly. The program facilitators were the Chief of Police - Virac, PMAJ Robert Kevin T Caparroso, PSSG Antonino B. Aquino, PMCS Josephine Bergonio, Prof. John Cyrus B. Francis, Dr. Ryan T. Timbal, Mr. Noly T. Benavides, Ms. Janette O. Labayani, and Engr. Benjamin Hannycel T. Nuyda. The schedules of the University-wide Re-Orientation were as follows: College of Agriculture and Fisheries (March 2), College of Education (March 3), College of Engineering and Architecture (March 6), College of Humanities and Social Sciences (March 8), College of Science (March 13), College of Business and Accountancy (March 15), College of Health Sciences (March 16), College of Industrial Technology (March 17), and College Information and Communications Technology (March 20). Prof. John Cyrus Francis, OSADS Director, hopes that with the re-orientation program, CatSU is confident that its students will become responsible and disciplined citizens who will be instrumental in nation-building. #FJBT
CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza recently distributed Samsung learning tablets to deserving students of the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) in an effort to help the neediest students cope with their academic activities.Among the beneficiaries are Mary Ann Gupa, a first-year student from the College of Business and Accountancy, Earl Joshua Tabian, a first-year BS Education, Social Studies Major, and Junard Matienzo, a student from the College of Agriculture and Fisheries. These students were recommended by their respective faculties and the Office of Student Affairs and Development Services.Mary Ann, who is a person with a disability (PWD), used to borrow online learning gadgets from friends and classmates in order to pursue her academic activities. Earl Joshua, on the other hand, is an honor student who has been persistent in pursuing his college education despite extreme difficulties. Lastly, Junard works part-time at a local pizza and café shop while juggling his studies to ensure that he reaches his dreams and aspirations, not just for himself but for his family as well.The Samsung learning tablets were donated by none other than the SUC President and his wife, Prof. Jane Rose C. Azanza. The tablets are expected to help these students with their online classes and academic activities as they continue to work hard to achieve their dreams. These three stories of grit and determination are a testament to the perseverance of CatSU students amidst challenging circumstances, and the administration's effort to assist its students. #cvecilles
The College of Health Sciences headed by its Dean, Prof. Joel T. Olfindo, has nothing but pride and joy for the sweet victory of its student in the recently completed 1st Anastacia-Giron Tupas Bicol Nursing Quiz Bee held at the ADAMCO Building, Concepcion Grande, Naga City, on January 15, 2023. Patricia Allysa C. Benavidez, a 4th year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) student finished second in the said competition. She was joined by co-participants Amelyn Rose Triumfante and Leila May B. Tomagan, and accompanied by Faculty member, Mr. Arnel Aaron M. Alcantara, as the Assistant Coach. Dean Olfindo who selected the participants and served as the Head Coach had high hopes that the Team of selected students will bring home the bacon. “When we left for Naga City, I was very positive that my kids were going to make it, and I reminded them that for whatever we do and aim for, we are offering it to our beloved CatSU. And for that we are thankful that despite the inclement weather in the country, we returned home safe and with triumph”, Dean Olfindo shared. As one of the HEIs in the island, CatSU is honored to have been given the chance to participate in the event, with eight (8) all other schools chosen in the Bicol region. “I joined the Quiz Bee because I want to get as much motivation that there is in preparation for the Board exams upon graduation. I also feel proud to represent CatSU especially that this is the first ever Anastasia Giron-Tupas Bicol Regional Quiz bee”, Benavidez proudly shared.The competition is an initiative of Dr. Carl Balita Review Center, one of the leading and biggest brand in the Philippines that offers professional exam preparations. Benavidez scored 62 points, just a 2 notch away from the 1st place. The organizers then gave the privilege to participate in the launching and in the proper competition for the National Level this coming March 1, 2023, to be held in CBRC National Office in Manila. “I am more than grateful for the knowledge and learnings from CatSU, and thankful for the all the help of the supportive faculty members, Dean Joel, and of course, to Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, thank you Sir. I am more than honored to bring honor to our beloved CatSU as well as to my parents’, she ended. #CVecilles
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Region 5 - Bicol donated a second-hand 9-seater Mitsubishi Adventure to Catanduanes State University (CatSU) on January 5, 2023.NEDA Director and CatSU Board of Regent, Engr. Luis G. Banua presented the vehicle to CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza at the NEDA compound in Legazpi City. The donation was in response to CatSU's request for transportation support due to the limited number of vehicles on campus.Dr. Azanza said that the University needed the vehicle for various community engagements and linkage activities in coordination with the Local Government Unit and other national agencies. The additional vehicle will help CatSU in its goal of extending its services to the community.Dr. Azanza also announced that the vehicle would be shared by the Office of Extension Services, and the Office of Research Development Services (RDS).“I am happy that finally our office and the RDS office will now have a car to use in our extension services and research activities. This will make us work harder,” Dr. Adem Nalu V. Rubio, Extension Services Director said.Dr. Rubio, along with Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs Dr. Ramon Felipe Sarmiento and RDS Director Dr. Jose Tria, expressed their gratitude to NEDA Director Banua and Dr. Azanza. #FJBT
The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Catanduanes Province, led by Provincial Director Uldarico Razal Jr., and the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Capacity Development Team presented the CapDev Analysis to the Provincial Local Government Unit (PLGU) and Municipal Local Government Units (MLGUs) on January 31, 2023, at Rhaj Inn in Virac, Catanduanes.The presentation aimed to inform the PLGU on the areas they can assist the MLGUs with in capacity development and the interventions needed to address their CapDev needs.The PLGU, headed by Governor Joseph C. Cua and represented by Provincial Administrator Lemuel Surtida, attended the event along with the Municipal Mayors, Municipal Planning and Development Coordinators, Municipal Local Government Operations Officers, CatSU CapDev Analysis Team, and other stakeholders.According to Section 10 of EO No. 8 s. 2021 on the Mandanas-Garcia Supreme Court Ruling, LGUs are required to prepare DTPs as requirements for the implementation of full devolution. These DTPs need to be analyzed to determine common and unique capacity priorities and to communicate the analysis results to stakeholders.The CatSU CapDev Team is composed of SUC President III Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, Executive Vice President Dr. Lily P. Custodio, Assistant Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs Dr. Arthur I. Tabirara, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Bernardino Abundo Jr., and Associate Professor V and BS Economics Program Adviser Dr. Noel De Leon. Dr. Tabirara stated that CatSU is commended by the DILG Region and the Province for providing an area-wide perspective and supporting shared development outcomes. This is in response to the implementation of EO 138 – Full Devolution of Certain Functions of the Executive Branch to Local Governments. #FJBT
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) SUC President III Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza has been selected to present his latest research study at the Southeast Asian Conference on Education (SEACE2023) at the Singapore EXPO Convention & Exhibition Centre in Singapore on February 10 to 13, 2023,His research study, co-authored by Prof. Jane Rose C. Azanza, and Patricia Marie Azanza, titled "Modular Learning as an Alternative to Face-to-Face Teaching: An Evaluation," has passed the rigorous blind peer review process and has been accepted for oral presentation at the conference, according to a letter sent by Dr. Joseph Haldane, Chairman & CEO of The International Academic Forum (iAFOR), the organizer of the event.This will be the second international forum where Dr. Azanza's research will be presented this year.Recently, his paper "Problems Encountered by Teachers During Online Learning at the Time of the Covid-19 Pandemic: The Catanduanes State University Experience," and his wife, Prof. Jane Rose C. Azanza's research "Modular Learning Approach at the Catanduanes State University During the Covid-19 Pandemic," were accepted for oral presentation at the 8th International Academic Forum (IAFOR) International Conference on Education and the 3rd International Conference on Arts and Humanities on January 5 to 8, 2023, in Honolulu, Hawaii, and online. The SEACE2023 conference is organized by The International Academic Forum (iAFOR) in partnership with its global and event partners. #FJBT
