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, 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 victorious”, Dean Olfindo shared.As one of the HEIs on the island, CatSU is honored to have been given the chance to participate in the event, with eight (8) other schools chosen in the Bicol region.“I joined the Quiz Bee because I want to get as much motivation as there is in preparation for the Board exams upon graduation. I also feel proud to represent CatSU especially since 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 brands 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 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 Administrative and Financial Affairs (AFA), and the Academic Affairs (AA) division respectively welcomed the new year with Review of Accomplishments for 2022 and Strategic Action Planning for 2023.According to Dr. Iñigo, Vice President for AFA, their whole day meeting last January 5 at the Female Dormitory Lobby, aims to discuss the highlights of the accomplishments of their division, and its impacts in the operations of the whole University for 2022. It became also an avenue to review the strengths and weaknesses in order to come up with recommendations for the areas that need improvement.“After we identify the success and areas for improvement in our Division, we presented it to the unit heads in the Academic Affairs and REPA divisions, both in the Central Management and Panganiban Campus whom we invited in the afternoon session, so we can make our services more effective and efficient,” the VP-AFA shared. Meanwhile, the Academic Affairs Division led by Vice President Dr. Lily P. Custodio had a two-day meeting on January 9-10, in the Accreditation Room at the Main Building.The first day focused on the Review and Presentation of 2022 Accomplishments vs Targets, and the second day became the Preparation of Strategic Action Plan for 2023 and Presentation of Outputs. Dr. Custodio rallied her division to work on the weaknesses and sustain the strength, share their best practices, have an open communication, and work as a team. #FJBT
Catanduanes State University (CatSU), headed by Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, SUC President III, honored Mr. Simplicio G. Mendoza with the Lingap sa Diwa ng CatSU Award in a simple yet memorable ceremony, witnessed by the University’s key officials at CatSU Conference Room on January 13, 2023.Mr. Mendoza, who is fondly called “Impling”, is a retired professor and extension worker at the University. His award was given for his selfless contribution to creatives and industry.Sir Impling provided visual design for important cultural events in the community. As an extension worker and entrepreneur, he raised the standards of decorative arts and virtual artistry. He developed local products in the handicrafts and the food industry thereby providing livelihood opportunities to others.Most importantly, his research skills and passion to do great allowed him to develop, standardize, and perfected the island’s famous “latik, and tilmok” – a signature mark in the province’s culture and identity. “The signature ‘Impling’ (Tatak Impling) is indeed being felt and I believe that it is but fitting recognition to honor your contributions, and at the same time appreciate your talents and skills which hopefully could be passed on to the next generations,” Dr. Azanza said.The president was also nostalgic as he vividly recalled the days when he was still a student of Prof. Mendoza, and gladly shared fond memories of how to create various products out of rattan.“Your unique way of imposing discipline by ensuring that our finished products are perfect truly translated into excellence”, Dr. Azanza recalled.“The kind of passion that you have makes you unique that even as you leave the school, as you moved on to higher learning, you bring it all along with you and the wisdom reverberates, reminding us of the lessons that eventually prove very valuable in our career. Even as I perform my role as SUC President, I still live with the lessons I learned from you about creativity and excellence and not just be contented with mediocrity,” the president added.Dr. Azanza also emphasized in his message that the value of meritocracy, which he is adopting in the University, happens partly because of the lessons he learned from Prof. Mendoza – that is to see the importance of quality and excellence in outputs, and that premium should be given to those who go beyond and excel.“The university came up with this award and we hope that you would know how much you are appreciated by CatSU, the community, and the entire island because Impling Mendoza is Impling Mendoza. You are one of a kind. You belong to a generation of trailblazers and CatSU needs you to be able to pass on to the next generation of CatSU students and employees this God-given talent and expertise that should not perish not just in the university but in the island as a whole,” Dr. Azanza said. The key officials present namely Dr. Ramon Felipe Sarmiento, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs, Dr. Maria Edna R. Inigo, Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs, Atty. Gregorio M. Sarmiento, Jr., Chief Administrative Officer, Prof. Zyra Mae T. Tumala, CIRCPDS Director, and the Corporate Communications Services Staff shared flashback recollections of the good old days, which also made Prof. Mendoza emotional with tears of joy when it was his time for the acceptance speech.“Dai ko pigaexpect na tatawan ako ng ganitong award. Basta sa kapinoonan, ang asa isip ko ay maging maogma sana ako sa gabos na yagibo ko lalo na pag nakakatabang ako sa ibang tawo. Gabos na yagibo ko, ginibo ko nin may kaogmahan. Salamat sana nin dakula sa ondra na tinao nyo sa sakuya,” Sir Impling said. Apart from being a full-time entrepreneur after his retirement, Sir Impling continuously shares his talents and skills with the CatSU students as part-time faculty and trainer in the community extension service programs of the University. #CVecilles
Cris John Anthon Castillo, a 4th year Computer Engineering (CpE) student, was hailed champion during the 2023 Regional Institute of Computer Engineers of the Philippines and CpE Challenge for C++ programming competition last January 14, at the Avenue Plaza Hotel, Naga City, Camarines Sur. Castillo will not only represent CatSU, but the entire Bicol region as he advances in the National level of the CpE Challenge in Ilocos Norte this coming January 19, 2023. The CatSU-CEA victory marks the second time that CatSU has won the same title, and now a back-to-back feat. In the Academic Year 2021-2023, Ivan Nepomuceno, now a licensed Engineer, finished 5th in the National level of the CpE Challenge last year. The recently concluded regional event accommodated nineteen CatSU – CEA students, together with three professors who served as their coach. These students were tested in their skills in Bread Boarding Competition, Quiz Bowl, Pitching Competition and Programming in C, C++, Python, and Java. #CVecillesPhoto Credits: The Cornerstone
The CatSU Abaca Technology and Innovation Center (ATIC) conducted its 2022 Stakeholders’ Forum in collaboration with the PhilFIDA-Catanduanes and DOST-Provincial Science and Technology Catanduanes at the CatSU Auditorium. The forum focused on the lecture-demonstration of the CatSU ATIC research developments and current progress of the center and aims to provide information dissemination on the importance of sustaining the abaca industry in the province, as well as the need of technology and innovation application in support to the province’ recognition as the abaca capital of the Philippines (Republic Act 11700). The forum included a showcase of the comprehensive profile of CatSU ATIC via an Audio-video presentation, along with the university Techno Hubs, and the various programs, activities and projects of both the PhilFIDA-Catanduanes and DOST PSTC Catanduanes. Representatives of the participating agencies also joined the Lightning Talks with an open forum thereafter. Workshop on the needs assessment of abaca farmers and the abaca industry, with presentation of outputs that was participated in by traders, farmers, Local government units, and STUDENTS was conducted, which was immediately followed by a consultative meeting. Furthermore, the forum serves as a preliminary meeting for the proposed Abaca Summit to be held in May 2023 on the occasion of Abaca Festival. #CVecilles
The CatSU Laboratory Schools displayed variety of their learners’ talent as they hold Paskuhan sa CatSU on December 15, 2022 a prelude to the Christmas Tree of HOPE lighting ceremony. Led by its Principal, Prof. Ditas T. Manlagnit, and Head Teacher, Prof. Joerandy Tablizo, the event was participated in by students from Grades 1 to 12, who showcased their talents in singing, dancing, that also include OPM and Christmas song numbers, Tiktok Dance Craze, Retro Dance, Modern and Hiphop dance, Christmas medley, Dula-dulaan, and festival dances. “It is so interesting to witness a showcase of talents from our very own students at this festive time, especially that we have not been able to hold such event for the past two years due to the global pandemic”, Prof. Tablizo shared.In her closing message, Prof. Manlangit stated that the energy and excitement seen from the students, as well as from their proud parents, were evident. “We hope that this will now be a beginning of an annual variety show during Christmas for our Laboratorians”, the Lab Schools principal said. #CVecilles
The Catanduanes State University (CatSU) signed today, January 11, 2023, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA). A virtual signing ceremony via Zoom was held to signify the start of the partnership between the two institutions. CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza and SEARCA Director Dr. Glenn B. Gregorio inked the said agreement and this was witnessed by the key officials from both institutions. “We need to stay visible and relevant during these times,” said Dr. Gregorio. The SEARCA Director also emphasized in his opening message the importance of partnership with key institutions to carry out their goals. Likewise, Dr. Azanza of CatSU assured that the MoU is just the beginning of the impactful and relevant programs that will be put into action in the coming days. The MoU has been concluded to collaborate in areas such as education, training, and research. Different forms of cooperation may be concretized through collaboration in undertaking programs and other related activities; exchange of scientific materials, publications, and information; and execution of separate agreements for any undertaking which will be jointly implemented in the future. SEARCA is an institution focused on agricultural and rural development in Southeast Asia. It commits to elevate the quality of life of agricultural families through sustainable livelihoods and access to modern networks and innovative markets. #CIRCPDS
With the objective of orienting and empowering of the newly hired and current faculty members, the College of Health Sciences (CHS) headed by Dean Joel T. Olfindo, conducted a seminar workshop held on January 9-11, 2023, at the CSH Amphitheater."We want our new faculty members to get familiarized with the vision, mission, goal, core values, quality policy, and institutional outcomes of CatSU and the program outcomes of Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics towards achieving quality education”, Dean Olfindo said. The (3) three-day seminar-workshop aimed to help the faculty members to demonstrate understanding of the policies and academic requirements for an effective teaching-learning environment, to rekindle and revitalize the essence of good values and professionalism for a harmonious relationship in the workplace, personal advancement, and mutual respect.“This activity is very important as we prepare our teaching force to acknowledge the provisions in the Faculty, Research, and Extension Manuals in order to effectively carry out the mandate of the university”, Dean Olfindo added. Organized and facilitated by Dr. Erlinda F. Tabor, CHS Quality Assurance Adviser, the seminar workshop yielded a full attendance from the BS ND and BSN Faculty, and with active participation that include topics discussed about Research and Development, led by Dr. John Villegas, CHS Research Coordinator. The college Extension and Community Services was presented by Prof. Kevin Asmer Aldave, Extension Coordinator, while the preparation of IPCR and other pertinent Academic Reports was discussed by Dean Olfindo. The second day featured the Assessment and evaluation/preparation of Specification led by Dr. Tabor, and the Informatics and other related IT in Nursing education such as the use of MS Excel in the preparation of grades was tackled by Associate Professor Aries Gianan. Another topic of the workshop is the preparation of Syllabus, Teaching Plan and other RLE requirements which was discussed by Associate Professor Lilibeth I. Tubalinal. The Seminar workshop concluded on its third day with a presentation and critiquing of outputs, as well as it submission. Dr. Tabor shared that it is but academically essential to prepare and present academic-related requirements that adhere to standards and following the prescribed format. #CVecilles
Dr. Jimmy T. Masagca, Professor VI of the Catanduanes State University attended the 2022 International Symposium on Small Pelagic Fish: New Frontiers in Science for Sustainable Development held in Lisbon, Portugal on November 7-11, 2022. The scientific meeting was organized by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), the North Pacific Marine Science Organization (PICES) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere, I.P. (IPMA) is a public institution, part of the indirect administration of State, following the responsibility of the Ministry of Economy and Sea and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food, under the supervision and guardianship of the respective ministers. Dr. Masagca presented his oral presentation on ‘small pelagic fishes and fisheries in the coastal waters of Catanduanes Island, Philippines within climate variability” in the topic Session S4, and a poster on “An integrated risk-based assessment of Cabugao Bay in Catanduanes, Philippines for small pelagic fishes to guide ecosystem-based management” in the topic S7.Dr. Masagca is one of the members of the National Panel of Technical Experts (NPTE) by the Climate Change Commission (CCC) whose goals are to localize science-based climate actions. Dr. Masagca has fields of expertise that include Biology, Aquatic Science, Natural Science, and Fisheries. His affiliations include that of being a Professor VI in CatSU, Member of PIPERS Committee (CatSU), Commissioner Member, IUCN-CEC, and Scientific Advisor of Pacifictech RTIC Inc. NGO.Subsequently, Dr. Masagca was also awarded by the Office of the President, Climate Change Commission a Certificate of Appearance for being present during the 11th NPTE Forum, with the theme: “Transforming Science into Local Actions Towards Climate Resilience” held on November 23, 2022 at Novotel Manila, Quezon City. Dr. Masagca holds a degree in BS Fisheries from UP Diliman, MS Biology from De la Salle University, Meritissimus Doctorate in Education from CatSU, and finally impregnated and mixed with CatSU education forming the best combination to work with the locals of the island, the Bicol region, and the country. #CVecilles
In its quest to develop the Filipino workforce including students with competence and to provide quality technical-educational and skills development through its directions, policies and programs, Provincial Training Center – Catanduanes under the auspices of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), partnered with Catanduanes State University in offering a free training for students. The training included a 15-hour Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) which is an essential requirement in applying for a student license. In the enrollment conducted on August 25, 2022, around 524 students were recorded as enrollees.Students joined to prepare the requirement of the Land Transportation Office for the issuance of Student’s Driver’s Permit. Part of the course was an orientation on Defensive Driving to increase awareness on traffic rules and regulations. In the culminating activity, students were issued with an initial certificate recognized by the LTO which is a requirement when applying for the issuance of Student Driver’s Permit. This 3-day course was held at the university auditorium from September 19-21, 2022, and the final Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) certificate were released on November 7, 2022 at the CatSU covered court. #CVecilles
After an in-depth accreditation task force training to prepare the college for the incoming accreditation in their BEEd and BSEd programs last November 5, 2022, the College of Education is hopeful that they would be able to have these programs qualify for phase II Level IV Accreditation which will be surveyed by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines, Inc. (AACCUP) on February 2023. With the training conducted by COEd’s Accreditation Task Force, the team was able to revisit the accreditation process prescribed by the AACCUP. They were also prepared to be acquainted with the specific roles and responsibilities in their assigned areas, and the readiness of the programs in the consideration of its strengths and weaknesses. For Dr. Maria Sheila R. Gregorio, Dean of the College of Education, their preparation is so essential in achieving the goal that they want for the college. She also shared the advantages that COEd will get once the programs are qualified for the said accreditation. “COEd will be qualified for Center for Excellence (COE) as we conform to high standards of instruction, research, and extension. It will also be possible for the BEEd and BSEd programs to know its strengths and weaknesses and what other aspects it needs to develop,” Dr. Gregorio said. During the training “From COD, COEd Towards COE: Accreditation Task Force Training” Dr. Gregorio was assisted by Dr. Edna A. Pante, Dr. Joseph G. Zafe, Dr. Maria Charlene A. Cantar, and Dr. Rosana S. Abundo. As hopeful as she is, Dr. Gregorio, who is also the proponent of the training, sees the prestige that CatSU will get having the possession of quality standards once the programs will be qualified in the accreditation. #FJBTemplonuevo
To continuously maintain excellent education services in Catanduanes State University, and at par with the best universities in the Philippines, the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) conducted its 4th survey re-visit to CatSU academic programs via Zoom. The Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics Department, under the College of Sciences have undergone AACCUP accreditation held on November 2-4, 2022 in a simple opening ceremony held at the Graduate School, 3rd floor Administration building.Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, SUC President III, led the activity via Zoom with the support of the Quality Assurance Services spearheaded by Dr. Edna A. Pante, together with University key officials, Dr. Lily P. Custodio, Vice President for Academic Affairs; COS Dean Prof. Joel Olfindo, faculty members, and the Accreditation Task Force. The Accreditation Survey Team were composed of Dr. Jao-Jao A. Somyden from Benguet State University, with Prof. Nancy C. Alaras from Cavite State University as the Lead Accreditor. “I am happy to share the good news that BSND is the only program that was recommended for Level IV Phase 2, from Level III Phase 1, according to AACCUP in a call I received a few days after the evaluation”, Dr. Pante told CCS. The Quality Assurance Team continues to prepare for 2023 accreditation mostly for Level III and IV for several program offerings to ensure passing the standards and be awarded the highest accreditation status, that way CatSU can lend prestige to member institutions, and eventually help parents to know which program they may send their children to for quality education, especially here in CatSU. #CVecilles
