CatSU marks 62 years of academic excellence

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CatSU marks 62 years of academic excellence

June 18, 2023 marks a significant milestone for Catanduanes State University (CatSU) as it celebrates its 62nd anniversary. In an effort to ensure historical accuracy, the university has readjusted its founding year to reflect the true establishment date.

Back on June 18, 1961, Republic Act 3398, entitled "An Act Providing for the Establishment of a National Agricultural and Trade School in the Municipality of Virac, Province of Catanduanes, and Authorizing the Appropriation of Funds Therefor," was promulgated. With its enactment, the Virac National Agricultural and Trade School (VNATS) came into existence.

Ten years later, on June 19, 1971, the VNATS was transformed into the Catanduanes State Colleges (CSC) through Republic Act 6341. This transition marked an important step in the institution's growth and development.

Further progress was made on October 19, 2012, with the enactment of Republic Act No. 10229, officially converting the Catanduanes State Colleges into Catanduanes State University (CatSU). This upgrade reflected the university's expanding academic programs and its commitment to providing quality higher education to the community.

The university logo has been rectified to accurately represent the founding year of 1961. This symbolic change serves as a reminder of CatSU's rich history and its continuous evolution as a center of learning and innovation.

Throughout its 62 years of existence, Catanduanes State University has remained dedicated to academic excellence, research, and community engagement. The university has played a vital role in shaping the educational landscape of the province and producing graduates who contribute to the development of Catanduanes and beyond.  

Unveiling the Illustrious History of VNATS, the Mother Institution of CatSU

In commemoration of its 62nd founding anniversary, let us delve into the rich history of VNATS (National Agricultural and Trade School), the mother institution of Catanduanes State University (CatSU).

Dr. Ramon Felipe A. Sarmiento, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs, takes us on a journey through time, highlighting the significant milestones that shaped VNATS into the institution it is today.

The 1950s marked a pivotal era for the Philippines' pursuit of nation-building through rural development. It was during this time that numerous agriculture and trade schools emerged at the secondary level. In line with this nationwide movement, Republic Act 3398, titled "An Act Providing for the Establishment of a National Agricultural and Trade School in the Municipality of Virac, Province of Catanduanes, and Authorizing the Appropriation of Funds Therefor," was promulgated on June 18, 1961.

With an initial appropriation of PhP200,000, VNATS was born on the Calatagan campus. Its inaugural main building occupied the very spot where the current College of Education stands proudly today. Mr. Maximo S. Binos assumed the role of the first Principal, leading VNATS on its path to excellence. In 1967, the school celebrated a significant milestone by producing its first batch of 31 graduates. The curriculum not only emphasized traditional secondary courses but also immersed students in the science and practice of agriculture, providing them with hands-on skills and knowledge.

Campus life at VNATS possessed its own unique charm and characteristics, fostering a nurturing environment for its students:

VNATSians were well-versed in parliamentary principles and rules, exhibiting their expertise by winning contests at the regional level.

Students residing beyond a 10-kilometer radius were accommodated in dormitories constructed by their parents.

Enrollees hailed from all corners of the province, walking to school and bringing packed lunches wrapped in banana leaves.

VNATS students had the opportunity to earn money by engaging in various agricultural ventures facilitated by the school.

Special working days were implemented, where teachers, administrators, and students labored together in the fields, fostering a sense of unity and community.

Regular gatherings or "pabayle" were held on campus, offering young teachers a respite from rural life and giving students a chance to socialize and establish connections for the future.

VNATSians encountered occasional teasing by being referred to as "taga pulang-lupa" (people from the red soil), but they proudly shrugged it off, knowing they were receiving a top-notch education and were well-versed in parliamentary procedures.

The final batch of VNATS students received their diplomas in March 1972, marking the culmination of an era. In total, VNATS produced six batches, comprising 232 graduates. Shortly after the last graduation, Catanduanes State Colleges opened its doors for enrollment in graduate courses during the summer of 1972.

Bikol historian Dr. Danny Gerona notes the possibility of a precursor school, reminiscent of the "farm schools" established by the Americans in the pre-war era. This intriguing aspect invites further research and exploration, according to Dr. Sarmiento.

As we celebrate VNATS' 62nd founding anniversary, let us honor the institution's legacy, which has played a vital role in the educational landscape of Catanduanes. The journey of VNATS serves as a testament to the power of education, rural development, and the unwavering spirit of its students and educators.  #FJBT