Over 600 students, along with 30 teaching and non-teaching staff of CatSU Laboratory School kickstarted the S.Y. 2024-2025 during an orientation on August 5 at the university gymnasium.Principal Prof. Joerandy C. Tablizo, in his welcome address, emphasized the importance of embodying values such as respect, honesty, and perseverance, encouraging students to become role models for their peers and sources of inspiration for their community.Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Gemma G. Acedo expressed her appreciation to the students and parents for choosing CatSU LabSchools for their basic education. She also stressed the importance of making sacrifices to achieve their goals.Pinning hopes on the power of collective effort, College of Education Dean Dr. Maria Sheila R. Gregorio urged the CatSU LabSchools community to shift their focus from individual goals to shared aspirations.CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, in his message to the Laboratorians, emphasized the university's commitment to providing quality education on the island. "At CatSU, our commitment to excellence in education ensures that every student receives the best possible foundation for their future, which they could get right here on the island," Dr. Azanza said.
The pioneering batch of enrollees of Catanduanes State University - College of Law (CatSU-COL) took their first step toward earning their Juris Doctor (JD) degree on Saturday, August 3, as they attended the ‘Pre-enrollment Orientation’ held at the JD Seminar Hall. Associate Dean Atty. Gregorio M. Sarmiento Jr. provided an overview of the academic policies, the JD program, and student conduct and discipline to the enrollees.University Registrar Marilyn Tejada addressed the admission and enrollment requirements, while COL Librarian Jinky T. Tejada discussed library policies relevant to the new students.In a video message, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza extended his warm welcome to the pioneer batch of the University’s Juris Doctor program. “I’m truly very proud of all of you. Just like our dean, Atty. Gabionza, I look forward to seeing you all top the Bar Examinations. More importantly, I hope you will commit to serving the poor and fighting for every Catandunganon,” Dr. Azanza expressed.“Subscribe to the idea that those who have less in life, should have more in law,” he added. The event was attended by Dean Atty. Santiago T. Gabionza Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Gemma G. Acedo, and Assistant Vice President Dr. Joseph G. Zafe.
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗿 𝗯𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗹𝗮𝘄 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗮𝗻𝗲𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 (𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗦𝗨) 𝗶𝘀 𝘀𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗲𝗻𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗮 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘁 𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝘂𝗴𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝟮 𝗯𝘆 𝗔𝘁𝘁𝘆. 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗼 𝗩. 𝗝𝗮𝗰𝗼𝗯, 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗲𝗳 𝗘𝘅𝗲𝗰𝘂𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗧𝗜 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀, 𝗜𝗻𝗰.The donation, made possible by College of Law (COL) Dean Atty. Santiago T. Gabionza Jr., a friend of STI President Jacob, was received by Associate Dean Atty. Gregorio M. Sarmiento Jr., who acknowledged its significant contribution to the educational resources of COL.The enhanced internet connectivity, with average download speeds of 150 to 350 Mbps and the potential to reach 650 to 900 Mbps, alongside upload speeds of 20 to 60 Mbps, will facilitate easy access to learning materials, virtual learning options, and improved communication and collaboration. It will also create opportunities for professional development and support online classes.Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joseph G. Zafe emphasized the importance of the donation, noting that it will aid during hybrid classes allowed by the Legal Education Board (LEB) during this year's adjustment period. "This will greatly help during hybrid classes at COL. Faculty may opt for online classes, but the law students will meet in person in the classroom, with professors required to report in person at least thrice a semester," he explained.Pinning on high hopes and enthusiasm for the new internet capabilities, incoming law students said it will help them in their academic engagement and performance."The high-speed and low-latency attributes of Starlink are expected to facilitate uninterrupted access to digital educational resources, enhance the quality of synchronous online interactions, and support efficient data retrieval and transmission… optimizing both the scope and effectiveness of my academic engagement and performance," Marck John Eustaquio shared."As a pioneer of the College of Law and one of its beneficiaries, it will greatly assist my studies by enabling easier access to data and validation of information,” added Roy Caballero.CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza has been actively working to secure essential resources for COL to ensure the best quality education for its pioneer batch of 60 law students. Notably, he secured another set of Supreme Court Reports Annotated (SCRA) volumes three days ago from the University of the Philippines (UP) College of Law. Earlier in January, Dr. Azanza also secured donations of SCRA volumes and various law books from generous CatSU alum CPA Lawyer Jose Villanueva Cabrera and his wife, Atty. Lehua Lao-Cabrera.
Showcasing stunning creations made of eco-friendly materials like abaca fiber, the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) launched its weeklong Fashion Exhibit at the university lobby today, July 29, celebrating the creativity and talent of the university’s Garments, Fashion, and Design (GFD) students, alumni, and educators. Organized by the Center for Catandungan Heritage and the Arts (CCHA), the fashion exhibit will run until August 9, 2024, and offer a sensory journey as it features more than 30 garments with different unique and colorful designs. “Every piece is beautiful, and seeing them all evokes a sense of pride,” CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza expressed as he graced the event this morning. Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Gemma G. Acedo also said that “these works are more than just products; they are our heritage and arts,” Among the highlights is the abaca-inspired costume worn by Ron Madrigal at the Ginoong Pilipinas 2024, which won Best National Costume, honoring the hard work of abacaleros and was crafted by Joven Añonuevo, a CatSU-GFD instructor, and Joshua Balbaderos, a CatSU-GFD student from Bohol.Another notable piece is an elegant Filipiniana gown created by GFD alumnus Julius Eric Cuison, which was recently featured on ABS-CBN News, transforming abaca fibers into a sophisticated fashion statement.During the exhibit’s opening, Añonuevo shared advice with aspiring fashion designers: “Pirmi natong pairalin ang puso at damdamin, bago ang isip, ta minsan sa isip, diyan may halong inggit.” Dr. Azanza expressed hope that these creations will gain further exposure through the university's official social media channels and publications like The Herald and The CatSU Statesman. “All these unique and beautiful pieces deserve to be seen by the world, as it speaks about the Catandunganon culture and arts. It represents who we are,” he concluded. According to CCHA Director Francis B. Tatel, the creations on display will also be featured in an upcoming fashion show next month.
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) climbed to the 86th spot among 179 public universities in the Philippines after 13 of its scientist-professors earned places in the 2024 Alper-Doger (AD) Scientific Index World Scientist Rankings.Maintaining its upward trajectory in academic performance and productivity, CatSU has made notable leaps from rank 93rd in 2023 and 135th in 2022. Leading the group is Dr. Jimmy T. Masagca, Professor VI in the College of Agriculture and Fisheries (CAF), who is renowned for his research on agriculture, forestry, and fisheries, with a particular focus on climate change, mangroves, and crabs. Complementing his achievements, Dr. Jimmylen Z. Tonio, Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUMSS), has made substantial contributions to education and foreign language education, specializing in linguistics and sociolinguistics.Another faculty who made it to the ranking is Dr. Jose Z. Tria, Director of Research Services, recognized for his work in music education, educational management, and culture and arts. While Dr. Kristian Q. Aldea, Assistant Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs (REPA), exceled in natural sciences and biological science, focusing on marine ecology and citizen science.The list of acclaimed scientists continues with Dr. Aurora E. Araojo, a retired Professor VI noted for her contributions to education, and Dr. Gemma G. Acedo, Vice President for Academic Affairs, who has made significant strides in information communications technology and engineering.Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, SUC President III, is distinguished for his dual role in administration and research. Despite his extensive responsibilities as president, Dr. Azanza has significantly contributed to education, sociology of education, and information technology, earning a spot among the world’s best scientists.Other notable scientists include Dr. Lily P. Custodio, Professor Emeritus and former Executive Vice President, recognized for her work in business, education, and accountancy; Dr. Belen M. Tapado, Professor VI, for her contributions to information and communications technology; and Associate Professor Maria Concepcion Suarez-Vela, also in information and communications technology.Additionally, Retired Professor Sonia R. Sapico, known for her work on marine ecosystems and sanctuaries, and Engr. Dexter M. Toyado, Dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA), recognized for his contributions to civil and geotechnical engineering, have also been acknowledged. Rounding out the list is Associate Professor Ma. Emmie T. Delluza, Dean of the College of Information and Communications Technology (CICT), with her significant contributions to information technology. The AD Scientific Index evaluates academic work using citation scores and author impact indices from Google Scholar, considering both total and recent six-year values. This independent international ranking organization provides a comprehensive analysis of productivity and efficiency, ranking individuals and institutions based on H-index, i10 index, and citation counts.
To enhance productivity and efficiency in the workplace by minimizing accidents and injuries, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) conducted a one-day hazard awareness and risk reduction seminar for its Buildings and Grounds Services (BGS) personnel on July 26.The learning activity, which aligns with the University’s commitment to maintaining a safe and secure community, was graced by CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza who underscored the significance of promoting safety-friendly policies and procedures within the institution.“Importante ang paghururon na alog kaini ta an buhay dae napapalitan,” he said.Meanwhile, in his message, Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs Engr. Benjamin Hannycel T. Nuyda emphasized that “safety is not just a top priority but a core value that ensures the success of an operation.”Serving as one of the resource speakers, College of Engineering and Architecture Dean, Engr. Dexter M. Toyado, talked about occupational safety and health at work.Held at the Extension Services training Hall, the seminar covered several topics, including the importance of wearing personal protective equipment, electrical and fire safety, power tools safety, and conducting safety inspections.The university aims to instill a culture of safety among its employees, ultimately contributing to a safer work environment for all.
Staunch advocates for ecological protection and youth spiritual development, both leaders shared a light-hearted yet meaningful moment discussing their shared ecological advocacies and youth apostolate. Resonating with the recent pronouncement of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) in Cagayan De Oro, the first meeting Bishop Luisito attended, he shared how the CBCP has decided to upgrade their diocesan ecology desks to a full ministry focused on 'integral ecology,' making the care for creation a priority pastoral concern.For CatSU, which has taken a firm stand against mining in the province and has been active in "green" initiatives, this connection represents a partnership in advocacy. Moreover, the university's Roman Catholic Campus Ministry, under the advisership of Professor Emlyn M. Lanon, plays a crucial role. This ministry, one of the main programs for evangelization of the Commission on Youth Apostolate (CYA) of the Diocese of Virac, focuses on improving the spiritual, mental, and social well-being of all students, faculty, and staff at CatSU—a mission Bishop Luisito is eager to know more about and strengthen further.
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) alumnus Ron Aldrene Madrigal won the coveted Best in National Costume award with his abaca-inspired attire, during the Ginoong Pilipinas 2024 Coronation Night held at the RCBC Plaza, July 18.The national costume, designed by CatSU faculty Mr. Joven Ombos Añonuevo, is a masterpiece crafted from abaca, which pays tribute to the hard work of abacaleros and the solidarity of the Catandunganons. The costume also honors the parahag-ot families and celebrates the patron saint of the province, Nuestra Señora De La Naval.With CatSU as the in-charge of managing the logistics for the national costume of Madrigal, the intricate details of the costume, from the bahag to the nilubid, was crafted to symbolize the resilience and unity of Catandunganons in times of calamity and uncertainty. The pagbug-ong, showcasing abaca fiber and paper, represents the sacrifices made by abacaleros to support their families.Madrigal, who hails from the municipality of Viga and earned his bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education Major in Social Studies in 2018 at CatSU, expressed his gratitude on Facebook, saying the experience of joining the pageant brought in the value of brotherhood which he will not forget.“Setting foot on the stage of Ginoong Pilipinas to represent my province Catanduanes is an experience that I will be forever grateful of. The brotherhood that we Ginoos forge along the journey will be embedded in my core memory for a lifetime.”Meanwhile Añonuevo, also expressed his gratitude in a social media reel for the support of his family and CatSU.“Dios mabalos sa sakuyang matinuwang na pamilya, sa mga estudyante, at sa mga gatuwang lalo na ang CatSU.”The Ginoong Pilipinas 2024 Coronation Night featured 18 contestants showcasing their heritage and pride through their respective ethnic costumes. Photo Credit:Jomar Franche Photography
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) advanced its flagship initiative, ‘Padagos na Patanos,’ during the Information and Service Caravan organized by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Catanduanes Information Center and the Catanduanes Government Communicators Network (CGCN), on June 29 at Barangay Timbaan, San Andres.PIA Information Center Manager Edna A. Bagadiong explained the caravan’s purpose, describing it as “an initiative to promote a one-stop shop for various social services needed by the constituents of the barangay.”A total of 31 agencies participated in the caravan, which commenced with a tree-planting activity. In addition to providing free services, agency representatives informed the barangay's residents about their programs, projects, and services.Key features of the caravan included a feeding activity for school children, senior citizens, and lactating mothers at the Timbaan Elementary School Covered Court. This initiative was supported by the Provincial Nutrition Office, Philippine Statistics Authority, Provincial Cooperative and Development Authority Office, and Catanduanes State University, which introduced its EduKain Program.CatSU offered medical and dental services, conducting free medical check-ups for 35 individuals and dental check-ups and fluoride applications for 46 primary grade pupils.The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) provided free massages, haircuts, pedicures, and manicures. The Department of Agriculture and the Provincial Agricultural and Services Office distributed vegetable seeds and farm tools to selected farmers' organizations in the barangay.Prominent agency heads actively participated in the event, including Congressman Eulogio Rodriguez, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, PIA Manager Edna A. Bagadiong, Radyo Pilipinas Catanduanes Manager Arlene O. Bagadiong, DOST Provincial Director Engr. Gram Molina, TESDA Provincial Director Archangel Rodriguez, DTI Provincial Director Maria Belma Escueta, PhilHealth Chief Maria Zaila B. Romero, PAGASA Chief Juan Pantino Jr., and representatives from other agencies.The event also featured a symbolic boodle fight, which PMAJ Rosalinda M. Gaston highlighted as a celebration of solidarity among the participating agencies. Building on the success of this event, organizers plan to cluster barangays for future caravans to serve more constituents effectively.
Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Commissioner Dr. Aldrin A. Darilag urged the graduates of Catanduanes State University in his commencement address to embody the university’s core values while serving the nation. “Pursue greater heights while serving the nation with utmost sincerity, integrity, and social responsibility,” Commissioner Darilag told the Cluster C graduates of CatSU on the final and third-day graduation rites on Saturday, June 29. He asked the graduates to make a solid contribution to the nation while embodying the CatSU core values: social responsibility, excellence, commitment, respect, and integrity. “Through our graduates, the Philippines can become a prime mover of genuine change and a trailblazer against the status quo,” he said, addressing over 1,100 graduates and certificate holders. The CHED official also called for the graduates to always step forward towards a successful future while rebuking self-pity and indolence. “𝑃𝑎𝑡𝑢𝑙𝑜𝑦 𝑡𝑎𝑦𝑜𝑛𝑔 𝑚𝑎𝑔𝑝𝑢𝑛𝑦𝑎𝑔𝑖 𝑎𝑡 𝑚𝑎𝑔-𝑎𝑚𝑏𝑎𝑔 𝑛𝑔 𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑘𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑘𝑎𝑔𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑎𝑛 𝑎𝑡 𝑘𝑎𝑘𝑎𝑦𝑎ℎ𝑎𝑛 𝑠𝑎 𝑖𝑘𝑎𝑝𝑎𝑝𝑎𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑎𝑔 𝑎𝑡 𝑖𝑘𝑎𝑢𝑢𝑛𝑙𝑎𝑑 𝑛𝑔 𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑚𝑎ℎ𝑎𝑙 𝑛𝑎 𝑏𝑎𝑦𝑎𝑛𝑔 𝑃𝑖𝑙𝑖𝑝𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑠,” the commissioner concluded. Before the keynote speaker spoke, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza delivered a message and told the graduates Albert Einstein's quote that ‘imagination is better than knowledge’. He cited all the changes that happened in the university for the past three years under his term, including the completion of 18 infrastructure projects with a total of 941 million pesos, the distribution of 1,200 tablets, the acquisition of four buses from the university savings, and the inclusion of the university in the world rankings, to name a few. “These changes happened with our shared imagination, and service to the community is important,” the president said. The University conferred 1,122 graduates and certificate holders from four colleges: Engineering and Architecture, Information and Communications Technology, Industrial Technology, and Sciences, in its 53rd Commencement Exercises at the university gymnasium.
Addressing Cluster B graduates of the Catanduanes State University (CatSU), June 28, Retired Justice of the Court of Appeals Atty. Alfredo D. Ampuan urged them [the graduates] to focus on their impact rather than just their academic achievements."While diplomas, awards, and certificates are important, what is more important are the scars sustained while fighting on the battlefield,” he said to emphasize that the true value lies in the experiences and efforts behind the achievements.Speaking on the theme, "Exemplifying Professionalism and Versatility in an Era of Connectivity: A Challenge to the Graduates," Atty. Ampuan pinned on the value of the struggles and experiences gained in developing the country. Atty. Ampuan referenced Todd Henry's book, Die Empty, when he pressed the graduates to use their abilities and skills fully, ensuring that they do not die with their potential unrealized. Cluster B graduates was composed of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, the College of Agriculture and fisheries, and the College of Health Sciences.
Traveling from Taiwan to the ‘Happy Island’ of Catanduanes, Dr. Chao Ming Fu, Vice President of Fu Guang University in Yilan County, delivered his commencement speech on the first day of Catanduanes State University (CatSU) 53rd Commencement Exercises, June 27.Dr. Chao told the 731 graduates to ‘think independently, not be constrained by conventional authority’.He also urged the students to ‘be passionate and maintain consistency on their professional path’ in order to achieve success and overcome challenges.Drawing inspiration from his expertise as a physicist, Dr. Chao included in his speech a lecture about Science and Physics with relation to the commencement theme ‘Exemplifying Professionalism and Versatility in an Era of Connectivity: A Challenge to the Graduates.’He considered professionalism and versatility as a pathway to excellence by embracing, adapting, and nurturing change and making innovative discoveries.Introduced by CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, the keynote speaker, holds a Ph.D. from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Belgium and is a professor of Physics at National Taiwan University.On the first day, the university president conferred degrees to the Cluster A graduates from the College of Business and Accountancy, College of Education, and Graduate School.
