The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) - Bicol recognized Prof. Maricel S. Cariaso, the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Manager and Alumni Relations Officer of Catanduanes State University (CatSU), as the Most Outstanding Job Placement Officer.Prof. Cariaso received the award during the 2024 PESO Year-End Performance Assessment held at Villa Caceres Hotel in Naga City, Camarines Sur on December 4, 2024. The event was attended by PESO managers and Job Placement Officers (JPO) from across Region 5. Joining Prof. Cariaso on stage during the awarding were Robert Andrei L. Cimbracruz (LEO III, Bureau of Local Employment), Marilyn L. Luzuriaga (TSSD Chief), Engr. Julie C. Manalang (Senior LEO, DOLE Catanduanes Provincial Office), Imelda F. Gatinao (Regional Director, DOLE Bicol), Eduardo C. Lovedorial (DOLE Catanduanes Provincial Head), Imelda E. Romanillos (Assistant Regional Director, DOLE Bicol), and Ryan Roberto E. Delos Reyes (Senior LEO, DOLE NCR).
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) has pledged its support to Gawad Kalinga’s (GK) initiative to mobilize youth volunteers for recovery efforts following the devastation of Super Typhoon Pepito. During a courtesy visit on December 6, 2024, GK Regional Director Marc Sebastian met with CatSU Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Atty. Septon A. de la Cruz, who affirmed the university’s commitment to join in the upcoming Bayani Challenge.Set to bring over 5,000 volunteers to Catanduanes between April and June 2025, the five-day event will focus on house-building, feeding programs, school repainting, coastal clean-ups, and other community-driven activities. Sebastian lauded the university’s support and recognized its role in rallying the local youth for bayanihan efforts.The non-government organization has already extended aid to the province through food pack donations, feeding programs, and school supply distributions in six barangays in Viga. GK also plans to establish the first-ever GK Community in Catanduanes, with 30 to 50 concrete homes slated for construction to benefit families most affected by the typhoon. "We are committed to helping Catanduanes rise again, and the support of institutions like CatSU strengthens our mission," Sebastian said.
"I always tell myself that it's either I top this exam or I fail it. There's no in-between. This achievement has taught me that anything is possible if you put your mind into it,” shared Mikael Angelo Rabino Romero, Catanduanes State University’s (CatSU) lone topnotcher, who secured the 10th spot in the November 2024 Philippine Nurses Licensure Examination.With a rating of 90.60%, the Viracnon topnotcher shared the challenges he faced during his preparation, including unexpected hurdles that tested his resilience."One unexpected challenge was when our review center shifted to online classes due to flooding in Quezon City. When it happened, I relied on the study habits I developed during the COVID-19 lockdown. I paced my studies and ensured I had enough time for myself," Romero explained.The CatSU grad topnotcher completed his elementary education at Virac Pilot Elementary School and graduated from Catanduanes National High School. His father hails from Virac, while his mother is from Batangas.When asked about his motivation for pursuing a career in nursing, the son of engineer parents emphasized his sense of duty to the people around him. He credited the influence and support of his family and community for helping him overcome daily challenges.Looking ahead, Romero plans to pursue medical school. In the meantime, he is dedicating himself to bedside care and teaching. As he aspires to become a doctor, he lives by his guiding principle: “Take one step at a time. Failure is the end only if you stop trying.” Romero is one of the 29,349 passers out of 34,534 examinees in the November 2024 board exam, where the University achieved an outstanding 96.32% passing rate for first-time takers and a 92.36% overall performance rating, surpassing the national passing rate of 84.99%.
The College of Health Sciences (CHS) launched its Health Education and Advocacy for Reproductive and Teenage Health (HEART) Campaign on December 5, 2024, at Calatagan High School, providing 70 Grade 7 students with knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about their health during adolescence. In collaboration with the DepEd Catanduanes School Health and Nutrition Unit, the event drew in key stakeholders, including Nurse Irma Pampanga, Head Teacher Cynthia Camano, Extension Services Director Dr. Adem Nalu Rubio, CHS Dean Dr. Ma. Alma V. Tabirara, and CHS Extensionist and Faculty Dr. Helen Romero.
Dr. Jimmy T. Masagca, a leading researcher and professor at Catanduanes State University (CatSU), was named one of the "30 Humans of East Asian Seas 2024" by the Partnership in Environmental Management for the Seas of East Asia (PEMSEA) on September 8, 2024, for his impactful work in mangrove conservation.A Professor VI and head of the Academic for Community Empowerment through Holistic and Ecosystem-Based Approach for Mangrove Crab Sustainability (ACE-HEMS), Dr. Masagca has dedicated nearly three decades to mangrove research.“I began working on mangroves in the 1980s, and nearly three decades later, my research continues to evolve alongside the community. Although locally focused, it addresses global issues like climate inequality and poverty,” Dr. Masagca shared.Through ACE-HEMS, he has spearheaded efforts to raise awareness and educate local communities on the critical need for mangrove conservation. The organization’s work has influenced a deeper understanding of sustainable practices and empowered communities to actively engage in mangrove preservation.The initiative has also led several groundbreaking projects that have shaped local strategies for mangrove sustainability. His team has adopted innovative approaches that place local communities at the center of decision-making processes for conservation efforts.ACE-HEMS’ work has attracted significant support, including a P10 million grant consortium managed by Bicol University, which will involve collaborative meetings with Aklan State University.In addition to his academic contributions, Dr. Masagca assisted the Municipality of Pandan for seeking the funding of Php 115 million for the People Survival Fund (PSF) proposal that includes mangrove conservation. Councilor Michael Tidon was assisted by Dr. Masagca to prepare the PSF proposal for funding.His research studies were also recognized both nationally and internationally, which has led to presentations at global conferences and co-authorship of 'Training and Management of Mangroves for Climate Change.'Further cementing his expertise, Dr. Masagca was appointed to the Scientific Advisory Group for Fishermen Management Area 1 (FMA 1) in the Philippines. Representatives from the group will visit Catanduanes soon to observe his work firsthand. Looking forward, Dr. Masagca was invited by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to join Secretary Renato Solidum and the Philippine delegation team to participate in meetings with higher education and research leaders during the Philippine Week in France, which will be held in Paris from December 8-12, 2024.
Faculty and students of Catanduanes State University (CatSU) were urged to critically and ethically integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into education and research during a 3-day workshop held from November 11-13, 2024, at E-Crown Hotel & Resort.Research and Development Services (RDS) Director Dr. Jose Z. Tria pinned on the importance of thoughtful AI use, and its potential to transform teaching and research when applied responsibly. “Our idea is our own prompt. We must consider how we will use AI critically and ethically,” he said. Director Tria also recommended tools such as ORCID, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate to help participants streamline research workflows and boost academic productivity.The workshop, titled “Empowering Innovations through Integrating AI and LLM Tools for Effective Teaching, Learning, and Research,” introduced participants to Brisk Teaching, an AI-powered platform for creating dynamic presentations and lesson plans. College of Education faculty member Emlyn M. Lanon demonstrated the tool, and the need to balance AI with traditional teaching approaches to preserve the human element in education. Director Lanon’s presentation banked on the perspectives from education experts Kovalenko and Baranivska (2024) on integrating technology without compromising pedagogical values.Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs (VP REPA) Dr. Rosana S. Abundo opened the workshop by welcoming participants and stressing the significance of strengthening faculty capabilities in teaching, learning, and research through AI integration. “This workshop empowers us to adapt to innovations while ensuring that these tools enhance, rather than replace, our expertise as educators and researchers,” the Vice President said.
Graduates often take diverse journeys as they pursue their careers following the conferral of their degrees. Each path is unique, shaped by personal dreams and professional aspirations. Yet, how truly remarkable it is when alumni not only excel in their chosen fields but also seek ways to give back to their alma mater and communities, with their stories becoming a source of pride for the university.Such exceptional achievement was celebrated at the CatSU Parangal 2024 on October 18 at the gymnasium, where two outstanding alumni who have stood out among others were recognized for their success in their fields.Following a rigorous selection process by the Search for Outstanding Alumni of CatSU, chaired by College of Law Associate Dean Atty. Gregorio M. Sarmiento Jr. with Alumni Relations Director Maricel S. Cariaso, two exemplary alumni emerged as this year’s honorees – Department of Agrarian Reform Provincial Officer Dr. Nerisa B. Aldea and Dean of CatSU Graduate School Dr. Arthur I. Tabirara.Notably, Dr. Aldea has advanced agrarian reform and community development in Catanduanes. Her work focuses on improving service efficiency, overseeing the distribution of land ownership certificates, and implementing various programs that support farmers and beneficiaries. Under her leadership, several cooperatives and associations received support for climate-resilient agricultural practices, boosting productivity and sustainability. Moreover, she established a Farmer's Business School and secured funding for farm machinery, which provided much-needed resources for local agriculture.Meanwhile, CatSU's Graduate School has been stepping up under the leadership of Dr. Arthur I. Tabirara. As Dean, he introduced reforms such as updating the Graduate School Manual and enhancing curricula to meet current needs. He facilitated program upgrades and proposed the opening of doctoral programs to meet growing demands.In community service, Dr. Tabirara actively leads the Knights of Columbus, an international religious-based organization committed to serving different community sectors. He was recently appointed district deputy, covering six councils in the province. He also played a principal role in local legislation, particularly in environmental conservation and waste management, which have earned him awards and recognition.Dr. Tabirara viewed the award as a reminder for all CatSU graduates to uphold the university’s core values. He also emphasized that such recognition serves as encouragement to continue their commitment to community service and faith-driven leadership, extending blessings to the university for its role in inspiring service to others."Receiving this award is an enduring reminder for CatSU graduates to embody the university’s core values in serving others and honoring God,” he shared. As these stories of achievement and service unfold, it is clear that the legacy of CatSU thrives through its graduates. Dr. Aldea and Dr. Tabirara are just two shining examples of the many alumni whose service to their communities and fields of expertise serves as an inspiration to future generations. It is certain that many more exceptional alumni will be recognized as the search continues, further solidifying the reputation of the university as a catalyst for change, progress, and service, and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
“The program's community service initiative is a testament to the university's dedication to mold socially responsible service oriented public administration.” This was expressed by Dr. Aristeo C. Salpa, the accreditor from the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), after the Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration program of the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) had undergone a three-day 3rd Survey Revisit Phase 2 on November 6-8, 2024. Expressing his positive impression of the accreditation process, the USeP accreditor likewise commended the program's efforts on empowering the marginalized sectors in the island.With the results, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Planning (REPA) Dr. Rosana S. Abundo congratulated the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHumSS) faculty as the three-day event concluded. “As we move forward, we embrace the challenges and opportunities, diligently implement recommendations, and foster a culture of innovation in critical thinking and lifelong learning,” VP Abundo said.
The Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Laboratory School’s career symposium featured career journeys from alumni who gave testimonials before 170 students, November 12 at the gymnasium. Dr. Joyce Ann Cabrera-Mendez (Dentist), Fredel Janssen C. Bagadiong (business owner, host, and floor director), JO1 Kevin A. De Leon (registered nurse and Jail Officer), Atty. Pamela Joy Herrera-Sanchez (Associate Provincial Prosecutor), and Francis Jhan E. Rojas (singer-songwriter) were invited to speak, and shared their experiences and the steps they took to achieve their professional goals.School Principal Joerandy C. Tablizo told the grades 10 and 12 participants to ‘dream bigger, work harder, and never give up’ on their aspirations in life, drawing inspiration from the alumni testimonials, with the principal himself also being an alumnus.Building on this, University’s Guidance Counselor III Janette O. Labayani urged the students to take their future seriously and to resist being swayed by external pressures, which could undermine their genuine passions.The guidance counselor also emphasized that the programs they choose should align with the career track they are currently pursuing.For Mark Jesus P. Alcantara, a Grade 12 student, the event has allowed him to ‘envision a clearer goal’ that will steer him toward a more achievable job. “The lessons I have learned will serve as a tool to improve my decision-making skills - not only in choosing a career but also in becoming a more responsible person,” he shared.
When asked about cultural associations, most people would think of food, language, and clothing. In Catanduanes, however, the Catandunganon people see culture as extending beyond these aspects—even traditional games, often associated with children, hold a significant place in their lives.These games continue to be played by Catandunganons today, passed down through generations. To help preserve this cultural heritage, Mark Anthony Dalipe, a Physical Education faculty member from the College of Education of the Catanduanes State University (CatSU), conducted a study titled ‘Kawat-Suanoy: A Collection of Traditional Games in Catanduanes Island, Philippines as Basis for the Development of Resource Material.’Dalipe’s research identified 46 traditional games invented and played by children in the ‘Happy Island’, such as Taya-tayaan, Tumba-lata, Tubig-tubigan, Simpanan, and Bingkay. These games have long built friendships, teamwork, and camaraderie among players."Inspired by my childhood experiences playing these games, I believe it’s essential to recognize and revive the community bonds and cultural identity these games bring, and to ensure they are passed down to future generations," Dalipe shared. Dalipe hopes to introduce his findings into educational settings and promote traditional games as a unique tourism feature for Catanduanes. He plans to develop a primer for distribution to both public and private educational institutions and cultural organizations, encouraging them to teach and incorporate these games.This initiative aligns with the goals of the Philippine Indigenous Games Preservation Bill, endorsed by the House Committees on Youth and Sports Development and Appropriations in 2023. When passed into law, the bill would task the Philippine Sports Commission, the Philippine Olympic Committee, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, and local government units with organizing annual regional and national indigenous sports events, including the Palarong Pambansa.The bill also proposes integrating traditional games into school curricula and activities—a vision consistent with Dalipe’s plan. “This is to preserve the rich cultural heritage of Filipino indigenous peoples and promote the significance of traditional games in uplifting the well-being of Filipinos, especially the youth,” the measure read.In addition, the COEd faculty’s study was named during the 2024 Search for Uswag Award as Best Research Paper in Non-Science and Technology category, and also won other awards such as Best Publishable Paper and Best in Scientific Poster. Through Dalipe’s research findings and the backing of the bill, the cultural heritage of traditional games would gain recognition alongside food, language, clothing, and music, adding another layer to the diverse culture of provinces across the country like Catanduanes.
The English Language and Speech Communication Center (ELSCOM) at Catanduanes State University (CatSU) has enhanced its student services in language development with the launch of the Speech Laboratory on November 6, 2024.The event, attended by language faculty and IT staff from the university, was held alongside a Quanby App Enablement Training to introduce the app’s features and address questions from end users.The 41-seat, cubicle-style facility is equipped with wireless noise-canceling headphones and 10” Android tablet interface. Additional equipment includes two lapel microphones, a 55” smart TV, and a desktop for the teacher console. All seats are swivel chairs with armrests and backrests.The setup includes a one-year Quanby app software subscription for the Speech Laboratory, which provides training for teachers, technicians, and students. It also includes a comprehensive user manual, digital file storage and recordings, desktop and mobile accessibility, an intuitive user interface, high-definition audio, a built-in speech analyzer, online access, preloaded lessons in American Standard English, and support for up to 80 student users (two sections).ELSCOM Director Reashiela L. Khan said that the facility will be accessible to students from all levels across both CatSU campuses. Director Khan also noted that the equipment is designed not only for instructional purposes but also to support faculty research.“We aim to enable as many students, teachers, and individuals at CatSU as possible to become skilled in using this equipment for both instruction and research,” Khan said.Located on the ground floor of the Administration Building, this facility is a milestone since the establishment of ELSCOM in January 2022 by Board of Regents (BOR) Resolution No. 85, s. 2022, under the leadership of then President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza.The Speech Laboratory and Quanby app, which also offer a variety of online speech learning resources, allow users to access features like online classrooms, quizzes, assessments, and speech analysis tools. These resources are expected to provide an advantage to students as they prepare for industry demands after graduation.For Dimple Joy Lopez, a second-year Bachelor of Arts in English Language (BAEL) student, the new facility is a promising development. “I’m optimistic and excited that it will help students like me become proficient in the English language. [The] Speech Lab will be a supportive environment for us to refine our communication skills," Lopez shared. Meanwhile, CatSU Officer-in-Charge Atty. Septon A. de la Cruz advised students and end-users to embrace the digital market, noting the importance of communication proficiency. He also emphasized that this effort aligns with the university's internationalization goals and provides students with a competitive edge in the job market.
How can institutions manage their waste effectively as global consumption rises and environmental concerns grow more urgent? With the Philippines ranking among the top waste generators in Southeast Asia, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) faces this challenge firsthand; notably, as a 'green research university,' its efforts toward environmental and ecological sustainability are its hallmark.With a particular focus on trash collection, faculty-researchers from the Catanduanes State University - College of Information and Communication Technology, May G. Yuga, Merli Joy M. Jamero, Joy V. Santelices, and Belen M. Tapado developed a system that aims to reduce waste mismanagement by improving collection efficiency through a simple SMS-based signal system. The Smart Trash Station utilizes SMS (Short Message Service) technology and Arduino-based sensors to create an SMS-based solid waste collection signaling and monitoring system. This system monitors waste levels and weight in real-time, automatically sending SMS notifications to waste collection authorities when the bins need to be emptied.After one year of research, the paper obtained its copyright, is now applying for a patent, and will be published in a Scopus-indexed journal once the patenting process is complete to ensure public accessibility.CatSU will be the pioneer user of the “Smart Trash Station,” with plans to install it in selected buildings, including the Administrative Building, the College of Engineering and Architecture, and the College of Information and Communications Technology.Driven by a commitment to sustainability, the Smart Trash Station researchers recognize the need for efficient waste management to curb environmental harm and promote a healthy, vibrant community inside the university. “This study gets to the heart of what we do by turning theoretical ideas into workable solutions that make us more responsible to the world and help make the future cleaner and more stable. We're interested in this topic because it gives us a chance to make a good difference in CatSU and environmental efforts in general,” said the researchers. ‘Smart Trash Station: An SMS-based Solid Waste Collection Signal and Monitoring System at CatSU’ was named the winner of the USWAG Award in the Science and Technology category and is one of the best publishable paper awardees, during the 2024 Annual In-house Review of Completed Researches last September 25-27, 2024.
