Equipping student-interns with practical knowledge on employment readiness, work ethics, safety, and global opportunities, the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) College of Agriculture and Fisheries (CAF) organized its ‘Professional Launchpad: Pre-Internship Orientation’ on Monday, January 12, at the CatSU Gymnasium.

The one-day event brought together fourth-year students and their parents to strengthen shared awareness and support as they transition from classroom learning to real-world work environments.

Significant insights were shared by Internationalization Director Zyra Mae T. Tumala, who emphasized that internationalization goes beyond working abroad and includes integrating global practices at the local level.

Director Tumala also mentioned success stories of Overseas Filipino Workers, including a Filipino farmer in New Zealand, and asked students to engage globally through networking, and virtual collaboration.

Providing practical workplace guidance, Provincial Employment Service Officer Gerry S. Rubio also urged students to apply classroom knowledge effectively in the field, particularly in communicating agricultural knowledge clearly to farmers. 

However, both speakers cautioned the participants against illegal recruiters and job scams, advising them to verify employment opportunities through official Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) channels.

Further reinforcing employment preparedness, DOLE Senior Labor and Employment Officer Danilo Balilo discussed general labor standards, including provincial minimum wage rates and policies that protect workers’ rights and welfare.

Workplace values were underscored by University Guidance Office Chief Noly T. Benavidez, who described work ethics as the “how” behind the “what” of work, reminding students to practice professionalism, discipline, and constructive behavior in the workplace.

Meanwhile, College of Humanities and Social Sciences faculty member and 2025 Bar Examination passer Jozem Niño I. Morales addressed legal awareness in the workplace, emphasizing that sexual harassment can affect anyone regardless of gender, as affirmed in the Supreme Court ruling Toliongco v. Court of Appeals (July 8, 2020).

A representative from the Philippine Red Cross–Catanduanes Chapter also briefed participants on student medical insurance coverage, including its processes, policies, and benefits.

The program opened with a welcome message from Student Scholarship and Employment Director Dr. Gemma M. Samas, followed by remarks from newly designated CAF Dean Dr. Medie Lopez, who encouraged students to remain resilient and persevering.

In the afternoon, Dr. Roberto B. Barba, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs, delivered a short message reaffirming the university’s commitment to student development and employability.