The Search for USWAG Awards held on October 5-6 at the E-Crown Hotel and Resort revealed the winners in both the Non-Science and Technology (N-S&T) and Science and Technology (S&T) categories, recognizing top research and contributions from the academe.In the Non-S&T category, which includes research in the social sciences, humanities, business and education, the top spot was clinched by the research titled “Lived Experiences of Typhoon Rolly Survivors in Catanduanes,” authored by Dr. Ramon Felipe A. Sarmiento, Dr. Joel Jordan, Prof. Maricel S. Cariaso, and Prof. Ma. Nena T. Vital. The 2nd Place was secured by the research titled “Gender-Fair Language at Work-Recognition, Beliefs, Willingness, and Challenges from Government Agencies of Catanduanes,” authored by Dr. Jimmylen Z. Tonio from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUMSS). Meanwhile, the 3rd Place was claimed by the research titled “Ang Kuwento Nina Kurakog at Kalarab: Mga Danas, Istorya, at Historya ng mga Bagamanocnon ng Ilihan Point,” authored by Prof. Ma. Sofia S. Llaguno and Dr. Jovert R. Balunsay.In the S&T Category, the top spot was secured by the research titled “Browser-Based Document Tracking System with QR-Code Technology for Catanduanes State University,' authored by Dr. Gemma G. Acedo, Prof. Gregory M. Bola, and Prof. Andrea S. Morales. The 2nd Place was awarded to the research titled “Utilization and Development of Libas (Spondias sp.) Leaves as Powdered Souring Agent,” authored by Ms. Robelle M. Tapado, while the 3rd Place went to the research titled 'Knowledge Discovery in Database (KDO)-based Rice Farmer Registry System at LGU, San Andres, Catanduanes: Prototype Development,' authored by Dr. Belen M. Tapado.Special awards included the Research Productivity Award, which was earned by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUMSS), and the Best Publishable Paper Award in the S&T Category, which went to Ms. Robel L. Tapado for the research titled “Utilization and Development of Libas (Spondias sp.) Leaves as a Souring Agent.” The research titled “Gender-Fair Language at Work-Recognition, Beliefs, Willingness, and Challenges from Government Agencies of Catanduanes” was recognized in the Non-S&T Category.The Best Scientific Poster Award was given to the research titled “Assessment of Blue Swimming Crab Portunus Pelagicus (Linnaeus, 1758) Fisheries in Northern Catanduanes, Philippines,” authored by Prof. Recie B. Bonaos and Prof. Jozem Niño I. Morales in the Scientific Category. In the Non-S&T Category, the award was claimed by the research titled “Pagsusuri sa Pinagmulan ng Pangalan ng mga Barangay sa Catanduanes,” authored by April Grace Lazado-Maca and Josephine T. Tomagan.The board of evaluators for the event included Dr. Rosana S. Abundo, Dr. Kristian Q. Aldea, Dr. Jose Z. Tria, Professor Ma. Cecilia T. Arcilla, Dr. Mary Jean S. Romero, and Engr. Marie Grace T. Molina.Winners and special awardees will receive a cash prize, a certificate, and a plaque and will be honored during the Gabi ng Parangal on October 25, in celebration of the 11th Charter Anniversary of the university. #ATugay
𝐵𝑖𝑐𝑜𝑙 𝑆𝑈𝐶’𝑠 𝑃𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝐸𝑑𝑢𝑐𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑇𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑖𝑠𝑚In an effort to transform the tourism sector in Catanduanes, the Department of Tourism (DOT) Regional Office V carried out an extensive evaluation of Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Edu-Eco Tourism Project on September 24, 2023.The visit was related to CatSU's pursuit of DOT accreditation in the Farm Tourism Camp – Day Camp category for its unique Edu-Eco Tourism Project, distinguishing it as an educational tourism destination.Positioned to reshape tourism in Catanduanes, the project places a strong emphasis on education and sustainability, making it as its defining feature.“Dito inaasahang matuto tungkol sa modern agriculture (Aquaponics, Hydroponics at Aeroponocs), abaca innovation, abaca wine making, solar farming, livestock industry, latest technologies na gamit sa CATSU habang sila ay nageenjoy mamasyal sa Isla,” CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza said, highlighting the project’s uniqueness and commitment to impart knowledge and showcase sustainable practices.“Kasama sa mapapasyalan sa CATSU ang Catandungan Heritage at Sentro ng Wikang Filipino na tampok ang ilang display at impormasyon hinggil sa history and culture ng Catanduanes kasama ang mga aklat at obra ng mga manunulat at alagad ng sining na mula sa isla. Isa sa mga rare items na nakadisplay ay ang Bicolano translation ng Noli Me Tangere ni Jose Rizal,” the President furthered.Led by Rommel A. Natanauan, Chief Tourism Operations Officer and Antonio M. Imperial, Tourism Operations Officer II, the DOT inspection team arrived at CatSU with keen interest. The inspection team from DOT V Office of Tourism Standards and Operations saw CatSU’s potential to enhance tourism in Catanduanes significantly with its educational and sustainable tourism initiatives."Buong pusong sinusuportahan namin ang proyektong CatSU Edu-Eco Tourism, dahil ito ay may malaking potensyal na magpataas ng turismo sa Catanduanes. Ang Department of Tourism Regional Office 5 ay nakikiisa sa inisyatibang ito at umaasa sa tagumpay nito," said the team.CatSU's Edu-Eco Tourism Project not only seeks to boost tourism but also aims to inspire visitors with its blend of education and sustainability while simultaneously creating job prospects for the local community.“Sa CATSU Edu-Eco Tourism Project inaasahang may dagdag na kikitain ang mga taga-Isla dahil tataas ang bilang ng turista sa isla.” Dr. Azanza said, highlighting the employment opportunities for the islanders, one key aspect of his ‘Padagos na Patanos Movement’. #ATugay
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) has officially launched a weeklong exhibit activity titled "PADAYAW SA ISLA: Riserts, Teknolohiya, at Abakanobasyon" with a ribbon-cutting ceremony today, September 25 coinciding with the inauguration of the Abaca Technology Innovation Center (ATIC) on the university campus.The event aims to disseminate information and showcase research findings, technologies, and inventions developed by both faculty and students of CatSU. The public can explore completed and ongoing research projects and technological innovations that have been produced within the university.Products on display include a wide range of abaca-based items such as abaca paper, abaca canvas, abaca wine, abaca alcohol, abaca fabric, recycled abaca fiber blocks, and abaca soap. Additionally, the exhibit features communication devices, a 3-in-1 coconut farmers' machine, dress forms made from abaca and recycled paper, a rain collector machine, an automatic fishpond feeder, a solar-powered banca motor, and many more innovative creations.During the opening ceremony, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza emphasized the importance of putting research into practical use. "The true measure of a project is its ability to solve problems and have practical applications. We will invite potential investors to commercially produce our outputs, and those who discover innovations here can enjoy royalties," the president said, encouraging the community to leverage the university's research outputs for practical applications.President Azanza also announced that the university is set to receive substantial funding from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), with 6 million for its abaca tissue culture, and hopes for the 38 million for ATIC pledged by the DOST.The president also stressed the significance of utilizing abaca resources to support local abakaleros, highlighting the unity of various government agencies and stakeholders present at the event. DOST Provincial Director Engr. Marie Grace Molina, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Provincial Director Ms. Maria Belma Escueta, and Provincial Fiber Officer of the Philippine Fiber Industry and Development Authority (PhilFIDA) Mr. Roberto B. Lusuegro pledged their support to CatSU's initiatives.Governor Joseph C. Cua commended Dr. Azanza for expanding the university's influence within the community and fostering a stronger connection between the local government and the abaca industry. The governor expressed optimism about the ATIC building, seeing it as a ‘symbol of hope and a catalyst for innovation and progress’ in the province.The exhibit was organized by CatSU's Research, Extension, and Production Affairs department, led by OIC Vice President Dr. Rosana S. Abundo and Assistant Vice President Dr. Kristian Q. Aldea. #ATugay
'𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫,' 𝐬𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐀𝐳𝐚𝐧𝐳𝐚To equip its students with the necessary knowledge and skills to adapt to the digital transformation, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) College of Business and Accountancy, held a seminar titled “Going Digital: A Digitization Seminar,” on September 26, 20203, at the CatSU auditorium. In his message, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, emphasized the importance of staying ahead in the field of business to become an efficient entrepreneur, highlighting that ‘information is power.’“The one thing that is really behind the digitalization program is efficiency. We want to automatically generate information because information is power,” said Dr. Azanza, highlighting efficiency as lacking in the current system.Dr. Azanza emphasized the significant role of digitalization in transforming every student into an empowered entrepreneur.“Generating information allows for quicker decision-making, which, in business, means seizing opportunities as a first mover, gaining a competitive edge, and making profitable investments while others are still deciding whether to enter the market,” he added.Dr. Azanza further elaborated on the undeniable advantage that digitalization has offered to CatSU, especially in the efficient operation of the Human Resource Management Office.“In HR for example, if I have the knowledge of how many [and we were able to use it] vacant items in the university are available, and because they have a computerized system then I could easily understand and decide that these vacant items should be made available to all Catandunganons,” he shared.Meanwhile, the president proudly shared his plans for Digitalization Programs at CatSU, particularly focusing on digitizing online enrollment, providing access to all enrolled subjects, and making grades accessible to both students and parents. “I allocated 7 million for our digitalization program here on Campus. So that you will be enrolling online, you will have access to all the subjects that you have enrolled in, and if there is another COVID-19 pandemic, we can easily shift to the learning management systems. And at the end of the semester, just by navigating to your portals [student portal] you would know easily the grades you got. And whether you like it or not we will provide access to your parents through [parents portal] and they would know easily how you performed,” he explained.Esteemed speakers and industry experts, including Geraldine B. Bagadiong from the Department of Trade and Industry – Catanduanes, and government agency representatives like Mr. Allan T. Sapanta from the BIR, Ms. Arelle A. Bagadiong, President of the Catanduanes Bankers Association, Ms. Carmel Bonifacio-Garcia, Province Supervising Tourism Operations Officer, and Mr. Franklin O. Oclarino, a businessman shared their expertise on various digitization aspects. These included digital marketing strategies, e-commerce trends, data analytics, and the role of technology in modern business practices. #ATugay
Catanduanes State University (CATSU) is set to significantly enhance its wi-fi services after Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza has successfully negotiated with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Provincial Officer Mario John D. Gonzales to secure an additional 100mbps of free wi-fi exclusively for the university students.This boost is in addition to the existing 150mbps dedicated to CatSU offices and the pre-existing 200mbps PLDT line serving the Main Campus.Moreover, Dr. Azanza has extended his commitment to providing even broader connectivity benefits to the university as he has sought DICT's assistance to install free Wi-Fi connections at Panganiban Campus and to secure four Starlink connections for the university. Dr. Azanza has also approved an upgrade of the PLDT wi-fi connection at the Main Campus, increasing its capacity from 200mbps to 400mbps, complete with a state-of-the-art firewall to ensure security and reliability."Under my term, we have upgraded our wi-fi connection from a total of 50mbps when I started at CatSU to 650mbps two years within my term,” Dr. Azanza said.In addition to these enhancements, the university is making significant investments in infrastructure resilience. The President has initiated the installation of an underground fiber optic network throughout all campus buildings. “Kasama na rin sa mga pagbabago ang pagkabit ng underground fiber optic network sa lahat ng buildings ng CATSU para kahit may bagyo ay safe ang ating mga communication lines,” Dr. Azanza said, highlighting this as a forward-thinking move ensuring uninterrupted connectivity during adverse weather conditions. #ATugay
In a move to increase Catandunganon women’s economic capability, the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) and the Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere (CARE) International signed an agreement that aims to benefit Catandunganon women to gain sustainable livelihoods. Dubbed as Women and Youth Economic Empowerment (WE Empower) Project, the residents of four barangays in Bato and four barangays in Virac will be the target beneficiaries of the program.“The project focuses on two commodities: abaca and root crops and [to be] implemented in two municipalities covering eight barangays,” expressed in the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA). Held at the university’s conference room, the joint partnership was signed by CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza and witnessed by CARE’s Asia Regional Director, Dr. Musa Muhammad, together with his staff on Tuesday, September 19.Present also during the MoA signing were the newly installed Vice-President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs Dr. Rosana S. Abundo, Extension Services Director Dr. Adem Nalu V. Rubio, and other university’s key officials. CARE is an international humanitarian organization that works with women and girls to combat worldwide poverty and hunger. #ATUgay
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) had a meeting with President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza regarding the evaluation of the Philippines' DRR needs and priorities, on September 21.This is to support their efforts of reducing climate-related disaster risks, which are aligned with international agreements like the Paris Agreement and the Sendai Framework on DRR, in line with the UN's ERC flagship initiative.The delegation included Mr. Marcus Oxley and Mr. Benigno Balgos, both Senior Non-Key Experts from the EU NDC Facility, along with Ms. Maria Agnes Palacio of UNOCHA Philippines.The meeting also included Dr. Jose Z. Tria, Engr. Dexter M. Toyado, and Dr. Rosana S. Abundo as requested by UNOCHA. The meeting mainly discussed CatSU’s contributions and contingencies in the occurrence of climate-related disasters like typhoons and the problems that come with it. Dr. Azanza described the many people-centered projects and programs provided by CatSU such as the designation of Evacuation Centers, the use case scenario of the Solar farm, and the creation of food supply establishments such as fish ponds and other foods and amenities required in the event of a disaster. #ATugay
𝑃𝑎𝑑𝑎𝑔𝑜𝑠 𝑛𝑎 𝑃𝑎𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑜𝑠 𝑠𝑎 𝐶𝑜𝐸𝑑‘Sa satuyang pagreparo nababago ang CatSU,’ Catanduanes State University (CatSU) President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza said this during the General Orientation for College of Education (CoEd) students and their parents, September 20, underscoring the transformative 'care' initiatives undertaken by CatSU under his leadership, which have significantly improved the university's infrastructure and internal processes.Dr. Azanza outlined his commitment to continue such initiatives within CoEd, one of which is the comprehensive review of the 'retention policy' of the College in collaboration with CoEd faculty and OIC-Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs Dr. Rosana S. Abundo, Dean Dr. Maria Sheila R. Gregorio, and CoEd faculty members.“Pigaadalan mi man, in a thorough review, ang retention policy kan College of Education. Gusto tang ireview ini so that it can be flexible in certain circumstances like during pandemic and calamities, na pwedeng makaapekto sa performance ninda,” he explained, also emphasizing the importance of maintaining educational quality throughout this process.He has also plans to lobby this in the Board of Regents, where he serves as Vice-Chairperson, and to include considerations for graduating students.Dr. Azanza also encouraged CoEd students to excel in their studies and succeed in licensure exams, especially since the university has made available a review center within CatSU to alleviate the financial burden on parents.“Dinara ta sa CatSU ang review para sa mga estudyante. Dakulang tabang tabi iyan, ta ang gusto ta, dai magparagastos ang mga magurang,” he said, further imploring that the cost of review within CatSU ranges from 10 to 15 thousand pesos, significantly lower than the 50 thousand pesos and above charged on the mainland.The President mentioned that he has already opened the Men's Dorm and Ladies Dorm, allowing students to use a common kitchen to save on expenses.“Inopen ta na ang Men’s Dorm and ang Ladies Dorm, allowed na magluto ang mga aki ta kung igwang bagas na dara, makaluto mismo sa dorm. At the lowest rate of 1 thousand per student compared sa mga presyo nin dorms sa luwas,” he said.Moreover, Dr. Azanza proudly announced that the university's four buses will be delivered in a few weeks, and these will operate free round-trip routes from North to South, further easing the financial burdens of parents. The president also encouraged students to study smart for them to graduate, and consider pursuing a Master's degree, saying that the university continually opens new plantilla instructor positions, following the approval of 56 new instructor items by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM). #ATugay
Catanduanes State University (CatSU), in partnership with the Civil Service Commission (CSC) Catanduanes Field Office and Catanduanes Council of Human Resource Management Practitioners, Inc. (CCHRMP), organized a two-day seminar-workshop on government benefits, drawing attendees from various government agencies on day 1, September 20, 2023, at the CatSU Auditorium.With the theme "Transforming Public Service in the Next Decade: Honing Agile and Future-Ready Servant-Heroes," this two-day seminar workshop aimed to equip participants with a thorough grasp of leave administration and government-mandated benefits.In his inspirational message, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza emphasized the crucial impact that human resource practitioners can have on improving people's lives."If we are united, if this council will be strong enough, you can issue support to every HR practitioner na gagibo nin tama. They will see, every head of agency will realize, nag-abot na sa panahon na an boses kang HR practitioners, talagang dapat bag'ohon," Dr. Azanza implored, emphasizing the importance of unity and strength within the council to support HR practitioners who strive to make a positive impact.Dr. Azanza further stressed that their voices have reached a critical juncture in reshaping the future of the province.“Otherwise, we will just be under the wings and the prices of people who decide for the lives of many on the island. Naghanda ka para mag-apply, tig-ready mo so sadiri mo, only to realize, useless ta igwa na man plan nakapangaran duman sa posisyon,” he added.The president concluded his message by pressing the Padagos na Patanos Movement program, which extends CatSU's services to the Community."We need CatSU to go out of the University and reach out to the 315 barangays so that the university will be felt by every Catandunganon. Maogma ako na hali kita sa iba-ibang munisipyo digdi, because eventually, you will encounter us. CatSU will be in the barangays," he expressed. Meanwhile, CSC Director Enida B. Abordo, discussed topics such as Government Office Hours, Overview of Leave Privileges, General Types of Leave, Flexible Working Hours, Recording of Work Hours, and Special Emergencies, including leave and study leave. #ATugay
𝑻𝑨𝑷-𝑳𝑮𝑼 𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒔Recognizing the profound impact of early childhood education, the Catanduanes State University - College of Education (CatSU-CoEd) Extension Services is eyeing to replicate its Pundasyon 2.0 (Pundasyon+Educasyon): Instructional Enhancement Training for Child Development Teachers (CDTs) across the province after its successful implementation in Virac.“Panduwang taon na kang programa na ini, so with that masasabi talagang na-sustain natin. Our target [after this] is to have a replication of the Pundasyon activity in other municipalities in the province since this activity is also in line with the TAP-LGU initiatives of the president,” newly installed Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs (VPREPA) and CoEd faculty, Dr. Rosana S. Abundo, expressed during her opening remarks for the second staging of Pundasyon activity today, September 20.“We are working na magkaigwa kita ning MOA between CatSU and DSWD. ‘Yon yong mga future plans and we just started it, madami pa tayong pupuntahan sa mga maabot na panahon [and] that is our dream, para man gabos na CDTs [sa probinsya] ay mataw’an man ning Extension para maka-assist sa kung ano man ang kaipuhan niyo,” she added, encouraging the participants to volunteer as facilitators once the activity is rolled out to other municipalities.Joining the VPREPA, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza lauded the efforts of the 30 participating CDTs in providing support and education to the crucial formative years of a child’s life, emphasizing the foundational role they play in shaping the potential of young learners,“[Grabe] ang effort niyo every day and yet most of them, kadalasan dae natatawan ning pansin. Kung hihilingon tabi, sisay daw an mga bayani kang satuyang barangay? Kamo baga. Kasi kamo mismo ang gatao ning serbisyo, ning suporta para sa pangangaipo kang sektor na dae naataman ning husto sa mga barabarangay,” he said, underscoring the university’s commitment to providing support to the often-overlooked sectors through the Padagos na Patanos Movement.“Kaya kami man sa CatSU, sa paagi kang Pundasyon na programa kan COED, mamati niyo man na ang CatSU kaibahan niyo tabi, nakasuporta sainyo,” the president ensured. The Pundasyon activity is a series of seminar-workshops aimed at equipping the CDTs with the latest pedagogical skills and knowledge used in teaching pre-kinder pupils. The third part of the series will be conducted on September 27 and will feature a Demonstration Teaching among the participants to showcase their acquired knowledge and skills throughout the series. #AClemente
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) is getting closer towards the establishment of its College of Law, as it progresses toward meeting the stringent requirements set by the Law Education Board (LEB).Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza expressed optimism about the university's progress in effectively addressing access to costly law books."Compliance with the law book requirements is no longer a problem as Rex Bookstore (rebranded as Rex Education) has donated books," he said after he secured this generous contribution by Rex Bookstore.Dr. Azanza also acknowledged the role played by CatSU Regent Atty. Santiago T. Gabionza Jr., who is also the legal counsel to Rex Publishing. Furthermore, President Azanza reassured that the moot court's completion is on track to meet the LEB's deadline, with an expected finish date before the end of October. "Nasa 70 percent completion naman po ang satuyang moot court sa third floor kan Main Building," said Dr. Azanza, indicating significant progress in the establishment of a moot court. This moot court, as another LEB requirement, is designed to replicate a real courtroom environment, providing law students with practical experience.He noted that the bidding process was followed diligently to ensure the quality and integrity of the construction materials used in the moot court's construction.President Azanza expressed hope that once CatSU passes the ocular inspection by the LEB and fulfills all requirements, the university will be able to offer the Juris Doctor degree by 2024. He emphasized the significance of this achievement, particularly for the people of Catanduanes."Base sa survey, nasa 200 po ang nagrespond positively sa satuyang feasibility study na requirement nin law board," the President highlighted, underscoring the feasibility and demand for the law program.Additionally, President Azanza revealed that the applications for the College of Law and the College of Medicine are top priorities in the university's plans. Under his leadership, CatSU has already introduced seven new courses in just over two years, including the Master of Arts in Nursing (MAN), Bachelor of Science in Architecture, BS Entertainment & Multimedia Computing with Majors in Game Development and Digital Animation, BS Electronics Communication Engineering, BS Library Science, and BA English Language. These new offerings have significantly boosted enrollment at CatSU, as noted by the President.In a remarkable surge, CatSU has witnessed a substantial increase in enrollment, climbing from 9,060 students in 2021 to an impressive 14,150 this year, marking a substantial growth of 56.09 percent."It is also a help for the people of Catanduanes because students need not go to mainland universities to study, highlighting that CatSU really serves the people," he said, highlighting this achievement. He expressed his concern for students and parents who may face financial challenges when seeking education elsewhere, emphasizing that CatSU has responded to this need by introducing industry-related new courses."Ibig sabihon mas dakula ang naseserbisyuhan nin CatSU. Kung pigpili ta sana, sain daw mapunta ang mga estudyante? Dakulang gastos sa mga magurang," President Azanza empathized, underscoring the importance of making quality education accessible to local students.President Azanza also outlined CatSU's mission to provide opportunities for island residents, both in terms of education and employment. "With our project na i-expand ang enrolment sa paagi nin pag-open nin bagong kurso, natawan nin opportunities ang mga taga-isla lalao sa employment. Iyan po talaga ang saro sa sakuyang programa na gibuhon ang CatSU na maging number one employment organization digdi sa isla," he explained. Dr. Azanza has secured approval for 56 new instructor positions from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and is awaiting approval for another 25 non-teaching positions, including five Administrative Officer V items at Salary Grade 18. #ATugay
In recent years, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) has been making remarkable strides in the field of sports. The addition of the 𝗢𝗹𝘆𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗰-𝘀𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗱 𝘀𝘄𝗶𝗺𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗼𝗼𝗹, an 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝗹𝗮𝘄𝗻 𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗻𝗶𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘁, and an 𝘂𝗽𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱 within the main campus marks a significant turning point for athletics at CatSU. The construction of the university's sports complex long-course swimming pool began in 2021. After a year of construction, CatSU now boasts the 10-lane Olympic-sized pool, complete with separate quarters for male and female athletes featuring comfortable changing rooms equipped with benches, shower rooms, and toilets. These amenities ensure that student-athletes have a convenient and enjoyable experience during sports activities.Moreover, today’s sports complex has three grandstands with a 329-seating capacity each and features two additional rooms downstairs. These rooms will serve dual purposes, accommodating physical education classes and gym sessions as well as providing space for various sports activities. The grandstand is a versatile space that complements the sporting facilities, fostering a well-rounded athletic environment for students.𝑭𝒖𝒍𝒇𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝑽𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏During a swimming practice session for the National SCUAA delegates, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza expressed how fortunate CatSU athletes are to have access to these top-notch facilities. Dr. Azanza emphasized the crucial role of quality facilities in fostering a strong team. He acknowledged that for years, the needs of the athletes had not been adequately addressed, especially in terms of training facilities. However, with the establishment and improvement of the university's sports complex, CatSU is poised for greatness.The transformation of a once-barren hectare of land into a flourishing sports complex is a testament to CatSU's commitment to providing a world-class education. These infrastructural developments contribute to students' holistic growth and solidify CatSU's reputation as a leading educational institution. #AClemente
