Serving as an accessible and strategic venue, Catanduanes State University (CatSU), through its auditorium, accommodated for free over 2,000 Catandunganons who availed the three-day mobile services of the Professional Regulation Commission Region V (PRC V), sponsored by the Office of Congressman Eulogio ‘Leo’ Rodriguez.Extending his gratitude to Congressman Rodriguez, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza expressed that the outreach program of PRC, through the initiative of the lawmaker, benefitted the Catandunganons, saving them both time and travel expenses. “First of all, we would like to thank Cong. Leo Rodriguez for this initiative of providing accessible service to our fellow Catandunganons. CATSU is always willing to support projects such as this that directly benefits our beloved kababayans,” the president shared.From July 18–20, at least 2,566 transactions were processed and finished through the PRC’s mobile services.Among these services offered, the highest number of recorded transactions within three days of the said activity, is the authentication of certificates, with a total of 1,014.Followed by certification with a total of 911 recorded transactions, while 247 newly registered Catandunganon professionals applied for the initial registration.Meanwhile, a total of 204 transactions were recorded in the renewal of professional identification cards; 148 aspiring professionals filed their applications; and 42 applied for changes of entries and status.Before the start of the application, the applicants were advised by the PRC V ‘to register online at https://prc.gov.ph to secure an appointment before proceeding to the mobile service venue’. Dr. Azanza reaffirmed the university’s commitment to serving the Catandunganons particularly those residing in remote areas, emphasizing that as a public institution, CatSU is always open and ready to cater to their needs. #AGC
𝑫𝒆𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒔𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗦𝗨 𝗖𝗹𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗕 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗽𝘂𝘀𝗵𝗲𝘀; 𝗗𝗿. 𝗔𝘇𝗮𝗻𝘇𝗮 𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗹𝘀 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘀 𝘁𝗼 ‘𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒃𝒆𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒍𝒐𝒖𝒅𝒚 𝒔𝒌𝒊𝒆𝒔’ An hour before the 1,515 graduates of Cluster B marched, a heavy downpour pelted their caps and gowns while they were heading to Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Front Grounds to celebrate the 52nd Commencement Exercises on Tuesday afternoon, July 11, 2023.Despite the threat of the gloomy weather and drizzles at the start of the program, the graduates did not deter, and the university pushed through with the much-awaited celebration of the year.Associating the event's situation with limitations on conquering life, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza urged the graduates to 'look beyond'."These (cloudy skies and heavy rains) are all limitations to make sure that you conform to the norms of life. Outside these limitations are unlimited potentials," the president said."By looking beyond, you will be more, you will grow," he assured the graduates.Meanwhile, the commencement speaker also acknowledged the limitations and challenges confronted by the Class of 2023 through his representative, Dr. Maria Christina F. Campita, DA-RFOV Supervising Agriculturist, praising the graduates as "it was not an easy journey" and "not for the weak-hearted"."As graduates of this institution, you have a significant role to fill in and rise above these challenges," Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office V (DA-ROV) Director Rodel P. Tornilla said.As a certified Abaca farmer and a Catandunganon himself, the DA regional director recognized the resilient character of the Catandunganon people and challenged the newly minted graduates to emulate this on their first job."Ang mga Bicolano, pagkatapos bagyo, maririnig, mapakaray mga naraot, yu iba mairinuman ngani, at palaging may pag-asa. This is a positive attitude that you can infuse in your first job," he implored the graduates of the College of Engineering and Architecture, College of Sciences, College of Agriculture and Fisheries, College of Industrial Technology, and College of Information and Communications Technology."I encourage you to take the first step, be bold, be confident, and be ready to face the challenge and make a difference. Show them what graduates of this university are made of," the commencement speaker concluded. #AC
‘𝑻𝒉𝒓𝒆𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒐𝒏𝒆’𝒔 𝒆𝒅𝒖𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒍𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒅𝒊𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆’: 𝗔𝘁𝘁𝘆. 𝗝𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘇 𝗮𝗸𝗮 '𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑷𝒊𝒏𝒐𝒚 𝑺𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒆𝒕 𝑳𝒂𝒘𝒚𝒆𝒓' 𝗮𝗱𝗱𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗦𝗨 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯 Gawad Manilenyo awardee Atty. Danielito ‘DJ’ Jimenez, popularly known as ‘The Pinoy Street Lawyer’ with his Facebook Page, addressed the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Graduate School Class of 2023 on the final day of the university’s 52nd Commencement Exercises.There are three ways in which one’s education can impact society and make a lasting difference: Teaching and Mentorship, Embracing Research and Innovation, and Engaging in Active discourse and Lifelong Learning, Atty. Jimenez said to the 42 graduates of advanced higher education degrees on July 12. He emphasized that education is a gift, and with every gift comes the responsibility to share it with others.’"As masters, doctoral graduates, and diploma holders, it is your duty to contribute your knowledge, skills, and expertise, and share these gifts with society," Atty. Jimenez implored. Encouraging to reflect on the profound responsibility that lies upon their shoulders, the commencement speaker also believed that education is significant to cure the perennial illnesses lingering around our society. "Illnesses brought about by ignorance and a lack of critical thinking,’ he explained. He also recognized and wanted to impart to the graduates that ‘not everyone has equal access to quality education’ which results in inequity in education that perpetuates ‘social divides, hampers economic growth, and restricts social mobility.’"It is incumbent upon us to address these disparities and strive for a more inclusive society by contributing our education to improve education opportunities for all," the Pinoy Street Lawyer said, rooted in his own experience as a law practitioner who has been virtually teaching his fellow Filipinos to understand the laws easier through his social media page."Let us go forth and bring the change that education can bring to society," Atty. Jimenez urged the graduates to take part. CONFERMENT OF DEGREESOn that day, there were 42 graduates nodding to the words of the speaker who were conferred with their respective advanced higher education degrees.Only two of whom were granted a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management for this Academic Year 2022-2023.Among the master’s degrees, the Master of Arts in Educational Management program has the highest number of graduates for this commencement rites; 12 were conferred. It was followed by the Master of Arts in Teaching Biology with six (6) graduates, and then four graduates from the Master of Arts in Industrial Education, Master of Arts in Filipino Education, Master of Arts in English, and Master in Business Administration, respectively. In terms of the least number of graduates in advanced higher education level, only one conferred with the Master of Arts in Agricultural Education and the Master of Public Administration, followed by the Master of Arts in Teaching Chemistry and the Master of Arts in Mathematics Education with two graduates. And only one made it to claim the Diploma in Public Administration. LEARNING THE ULTIMATE LESSONBefore the investiture of hood and cap took place, President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza introduced and described the graduation speaker as ‘an advocate, an educator, and a beacon of hope for justice’ and a ‘man who dedicated his life to making the law accessible to all.’In his remarks, he shared with the newly minted master’s and doctorate degree holders the ultimate lesson by sharing the result of a longitudinal study conducted by Harvard University that revolved around monitoring the success of 725 participants."The result showed that it is not physical fitness, it is not financial wealth, or even the academic or research accomplishments, the accolades, or the awards you gather in life, but rather what is more important is social fitness or positive relationships; having positive relationships makes one feel successful and happy," Dr. Azanza justified. #AC
As newly-elected USC, CSC leaders take oathDr. Azanza calls to support the full implementation of CatSU’s LMSIn a bid to enhance the digital ecosystem of Catanduanes State University (CatSU), President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza urged the newly elected University Student Council (USC) and College Student Council (CSC) leaders to fully operationalize the Learning Management System (LMS). The leaders took their oath before the president on July 10, 2023.President Azanza emphasized that the LMS would streamline the enrollment process and provide students with convenient access to their grades and certification requests, eliminating the need for long queues at the registrar's office."We encourage your cooperation, and hopefully the LMS will be activated this coming academic year," the president stated, highlighting the importance of the system in facilitating student access to necessary information."Even during your vacation, you can still enroll online and instantly access your grades when necessary," he added, emphasizing the flexibility and convenience offered by the LMS.Acknowledging the diverse needs of the student body, newly sworn-in USC President, Francine Mae T. Tayo, assured the CatSU community of her administration's openness to suggestions that would improve student services."Dae man kaipo ang talent, basta aduman ang puso buda commitment nita na magserbi," she added, emphasizing the commitment of her administration to serve with passion and dedication.Following the oath-taking ceremony, President Azanza provided updates on the university's ongoing programs and projects, including the establishment of a student development center and sports facility, the procurement of fully air-conditioned buses with comfort rooms, and the continuous improvement of the university library. The oath-taking ceremony was witnessed by Director John Cyrus B. Francis of the Office of Student Affairs and Development and took place at the CatSU Conference Room. The new USC and CSC officers are poised to lead and contribute to the advancement of digital learning at CatSU. #AGC
Undersecretary Epimaco V. Densing III of the Department of Education (DepEd) told graduates of Catanduanes State University (CatSU) on Monday, July 10, to join together in upholding Filipino children’s welfare and contribute to nation-building, no matter the scale."Sama-sama tayong tumindig para sa ating bansa, para sa isang bansang makabata, batang makabansa," said Usec. Densing in his video-recorded keynote address, anchored on DepEd’s MATATAG program."Gawin natin ang mga bagay na ito dahil mahal natin ang ating bayan, para sa bata, para sa bayan, at para sa tunay na pagbabago," he added, leaving the choice to the 1,103 graduates of Cluster A at CatSU’s 52nd commencement to embody patriotism.The DepEd undersecretary also reminded the CatSU graduates that as they explore the world, 'remember that we are Filipinos, and we also need to contribute to the growth of our country, no matter how small it is.’Before Usec. Densing’s video message, CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, introduced and called the undersecretary ‘a dedicated public servant and an advocate for education’.He also expressed with pride that this significant milestone signifies that the CatSU graduates had received the ‘best education’ from the university despite the challenges brought about by the global pandemic."Look back to this day, because today you have proven yourself worthy… and to the world that you are survivors," the president said."As you meet challenges, remember the love of your parents, the warmth of their embrace, and the knowledge we have shared with you," he added. As dusk settled, more than 1,000 graduates from the College of Education, College of Business and Accountancy, College of Health Sciences, and College of Humanities and Social Sciences, along with their parents, friends, and professors, marched and crowded the CatSU Front Grounds. #AGC
The Catanduanes State University (CatSU) EIS team, under the leadership of the office of the Assistant Vice-President for Administrative and Financial Affairs (AVP-AFA), recently completed the second level of Public Scoping for their proposed projects, including the CatSU economic zones.This crucial step aims to secure an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) through the formulation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).During an online consultation held via Zoom on June 20, 2023, the EIS team presented the proposed projects to Engr. Maria Socorro A. Abu, the Regional Director of the Environmental Management Bureau. This platform provided an opportunity to address any potential issues or concerns that different sectors and offices may have regarding the plans and programs outlined in the EIS. Through this process, immediate solutions can be sought in relation to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process.The Public Scoping not only facilitates the collection of valuable feedback but also promotes public participation. A constructive open forum was conducted, enabling stakeholders to raise their concerns and gain a deeper understanding of CatSU’s strategic direction as the leading educational institution in the province. Distinguished participants, such as Hon. Samuel V. Laynes, the Virac Municipal Mayor; Hon. Arlyn C. Arcilla, the Virac Municipal Vice-Mayor; Ms. Jimma V. Tadoy, the Virac Municipal Agriculturist; and Engr. Angelo V. Marquez from the National Irrigation Administration-Catanduanes, among others, actively took part in the Public Scoping process. #RJI
In a remarkable display of dedication and hard work, a daughter of a farmer and housewife from Caramoran has claimed the 11th spot in the recently concluded Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination (PNLE). This achievement was part of the exceptional results achieved by graduates from Catanduanes State University (CatSU), who achieved an unprecedented passing rate of 99.1% for first-time takers.Kristine Cerillo Sarmiento, a 22-year-old graduate, secured an impressive rating of 89.40%, coming within half a percentage point of the 10th placers who scored 89.60%. Her success reflects her relentless pursuit of excellence and the unwavering support she received from her family and friends.CatSU's College of Health Sciences also celebrates the outstanding achievements of 25 other graduates who landed spots in the top 30 passers. Among them are Hannah E. Santos, Rosemarie S. Tabang, and Francis Joseph V. Sacris, who achieved an impressive score of 88.60% and secured the 15th spot. Lin Dominic A. Velasco, Ariana Gail P. Valencia, Darla Joyce V. Quiballo, Franco Joseph V. Sacris, Alana Marie B. Talaran, and others also showcased their excellence with remarkable scores, earning them positions within the top 30.The exceptional performance of CatSU's graduates sets them apart from the national passing percentage of 74.94%.Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, the President of CatSU, expressed his delight and described the feat as "awesome." He praised the dean and faculty of the College of Health Sciences for their commitment to providing quality education and guidance to the nursing students.Offering advice to fellow nursing students during her interview with the Catanduanes Tribune, Kristine Sarmiento emphasized the importance of perseverance and striving for improvement. She shared her experience of using effective time management techniques during her exam preparation, allocating specific study periods and taking breaks to relax and recharge. Facing challenges in certain subjects, she prioritized studying them first and sought support from her family, friends, and roommates in Legazpi City, who provided motivation and unwavering support.For Kristine, her faith played a vital role in her success. She sought guidance and wisdom from St. Jude, St. Raphael, and St. Gregory, while acknowledging that she couldn't have accomplished her goals without the help of God.Looking ahead, Kristine plans to work in a hospital and potentially pursue a Master's degree. Her remarkable journey from a farmer's daughter to a successful nursing graduate serves as an inspiration to many, showing that with determination and support, dreams can be achieved.As she begins her professional career, Kristine remains grateful to her parents and siblings for their unwavering support. Her elder sister is a teacher, while her younger siblings are all pursuing their education. Her outstanding academic journey began at Dariao Elementary School, where she was a salutatorian. She later graduated with honors from Caramoran Rural Development High School in 2018. At CatSU, she actively participated as a campus journalist and served as a senator in the student body organization for two consecutive years. Kristine's remarkable success story exemplifies the transformative power of education and the dedication of individuals who strive for excellence despite the challenges they face. Her achievements stand as a testament to the potential within every individual and the importance of perseverance in realizing one's dreams. #FJBT
The Catanduanes State University Laboratory Schools (CatSU-Lab Schools) concluded its 52nd Commencement Exercises and 8th Junior High School Completion Rites on June 9, 2023, at the CatSU Gymnasium.A total of 177 graduates and completers were honored during the ceremony, which carried the theme "Batch 2023: Celebrating Perseverance, Embracing Opportunities, Shifting Perspectives.” Professor Ditas T. Manlangit, the Principal of the Laboratory Schools, presented the candidates for graduation, including 31 Grade 6 students, 87 Grade 12 students, and 59 candidates for completion.During his address, CatSU President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, expressed his message of support to the students and their proud parents. He highlighted the importance of addressing mental health issues among the youth and emphasized the crucial role of parents in guiding their children as they navigate through life. Dr. Azanza also encouraged the graduates and completers to maintain an optimistic outlook and seek help when needed.“Never mind the negativities, just focus on being optimistic because after all is said and done, we are on a journey, and that journey leads us to only one thing- and that is our God,” Dr. Azanza said.The ceremony featured Engr. Charlyn Gurrobat-Primero as the honored Guest Speaker. Engr. Gurrobat-Primero, a CatSU-Laboratory Schools Batch 2003 Valedictorian, and presently the Quality Management Representative of Orthopaedic International, Inc., shared inspiring anecdotes and stories of perseverance from her time as a CatSU student.She commended the graduates and completers for their resilience in overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic. Engr. Gurrobat-Primero also recognized the efforts and commitment of CatSU in providing quality education even amidst the global health crisis, acknowledging the university's recent achievement as one of the top three universities in the Bicol Region.“Carry that spirit of resilience with you as you embark on your future endeavors and couple it with faith. You are neither just graduates nor completers, you are beacons of hope,” she said. Meanwhile, the 52nd Recognition Ceremonies, held on June 7, 2023, featured Prof. Arjay V. Abichuela, Medical Technologist IV at the Philippine Heart Center, and Mr. Joshua O. Tadoy, HR Manager at Acquire BPO Philippines, Inc., as guest speakers for Cluster 1 and Cluster 2, respectively. #RJI
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) has emerged triumphant in the recent Philippine Nurse Licensure Examinations (PNLE), achieving an impressive passing rate of 99.1% for first-time takers.Including second-timers, the passing rate stood at 95.4%, with 104 out of 109 candidates successfully passing the rigorous examination.Among the notable achievements, the university takes pride in the outstanding performance of several students who secured their positions in the top 30.Topping the list is Kristine C. Sarmiento with an impressive score of 89.40%, placing her at the prestigious 11th spot. Following closely behind are Hannah E. Santos, Rosemarie S. Tabang, and Francis Joseph V. Sacris, all earning an impressive score of 88.60% and securing their spots at 15th place.Other students who made it to the top 30 include Lin Dominic A. Velasco and Ariana Gail P. Valencia at 17th place with a score of 88.20%, Darla Joyce V. Quiballo, Franco Joseph V. Sacris, and Alana Marie B. Talaran at 20th place with a score of 87.60%, Abegail T. Aguilar and John Greg M. Tabor at 22nd place with a score of 87.20%, and Liane Mariette M. Sales at 23rd place with a score of 87.00%.The remaining successful examinees who secured positions in the top 30 are Bernadette S. Sabeniano, Alizta Quie Nicole R. Tabirara, Jejomar V. Taniajura, Vince G. Aguilar, Ana Flor N. Sibonga, Sheena B. Sarmiento, Louillen F. Acacio, Quinie T. Tabirara, Arjay T. Terrazola, Joan C. Macuja, Rossel G. Balute, Ana Marie Evangelista, Marisam B. Ariate, and Coleen Mae T. De Leon.CatSU President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza extended his congratulations to the proud parents, acknowledging their unwavering support and encouragement that played a vital role in the students' success.Furthermore, he commended the faculty members and the Dean of the College of Health Sciences for their relentless dedication to providing quality education and guidance to the nursing students. Their expertise and commitment have undoubtedly contributed significantly to the students' achievements.“The exceptional licensure exam results of CatSU's nursing program reflect the institution's unwavering commitment to producing competent and compassionate healthcare professionals. It is a testament to the university's pursuit of excellence in education and its dedication to nurturing the talents and abilities of its students. The future holds great promise for these successful nursing graduates as they start on their professional journey, making a positive impact in the healthcare field and beyond,” the CatSU President said. #FJBT
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
In recognition of the university’s outstanding programs and practices against drug abuse, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) was selected as one of the three Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) in Bicol to share their replicable practices on anti-illegal drugs campaign during the one-day seminar held at Legazpi City, June 27, 2023.Dubbed as 𝘉𝘪𝘤𝘰𝘭 𝘏𝘌𝘐𝘴: 𝘚𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘈𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘍𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘧𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘌𝘧𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘗𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘈𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘵 𝘋𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘴 𝘚𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘳𝘴 (𝘉 𝘚𝘈𝘍𝘌, 𝘗𝘈𝘋𝘚), the seminar was conducted in observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.The event aimed to educate the youth about the risks of drug usage and improve their ability to resist drug use temptations. It also encourages youth to take an active role in initiating drug abuse prevention.Prof. John Cyrus B. Francis, Director of the Office of the Student Affairs and Development Services (OSADS), led the presentation of CatSU’s anti-illegal drugs campaign, including the re-orientation program for all CatSU students, which highlighted the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.Moreover, CatSU University Student Council President (USC) and Student Regent Francine Mae T. Tayo, who was also one of the participants, urged her fellow youth to be more aggressive in their campaign against the illegal use of drugs, citing drug abuse as a “deep-rooted societal problem that branches out in society in its evilest form.”“The greatest help that we can offer [as a youth] is to not let ourselves be an addition to the worsening case of illegal drug use but to help in the prevention and reduction of it. To my fellow youth, the least we can do is live by the advocacy of Wag Tumikim,” USC President Tayo added. Meanwhile, also present at the said seminar were the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUMSS) College Student Council (CSC) President, Emmanuel Eric S. Llanita, and College of Education CSC President, John Lester T. Templonuevo. #RJI
The Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Department of Nutrition and Dietetics organized its first White Coat Ceremony on June 9, 2023, at the university auditorium.This ceremony held great significance for the third-year Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics (BS ND) students as they prepared for their upcoming practicum in areas such as Hospital Dietetics, Public Health Nutrition, and Food Service.The approval of the SUC President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, and the recommendation by the Phil. Regulations Commission (PRC) Board of Nutrition and Dietetics played a crucial role in making this ceremony possible. The department, led by Prof. Emily V. Romero, organized the event with the aim of boosting the students' confidence and attracting high school graduates to enroll in the BS ND program.The ceremony commenced with a mass at the Risen Christ Chapel, officiated by Rev. Father Eric John T. Rojas. Following the mass, Prof. Joel T. Olfindo, MAN, the Dean of the College of Health Sciences, delivered his welcome remarks. Dean Olfindo emphasized that the white coat should not separate clinicians from their patients' emotions and concerns.“May this remind everyone of us that this should not keep us from appreciating the emotions, or concerns such as pain of our patients. This is what the White Coat Ceremony is all about. This is why we are here today”, Dean Olfindo said.The ceremony also provided the students with guidelines and expectations for their roles and responsibilities as future dietetics professionals before they embarked on their clinical placements.The Guest Speaker for the ceremony was Ms. Justin M. Tabinas, a registered nutritionist-dietitian and the current ND of the Provincial Health Office (PHO). In her speech, Tabinas commended the students for their sacrifices and determination in pursuing their studies and dreams. She discussed the importance of professionalism, which encompasses expertise, ethics, and courtesy, in delivering quality and efficient service.“Today’s Pledge of Professionalism and Excellence, marks a new horizon for you all, our future Nutritionist-Dietitians. Young as you are, I could see and feel the enthusiasm in your faces as you move towards a new level of field of expertise, just continue”, she said.Dr. Azanza, the SUC President, graced the event and expressed his pride in the students' achievements. He highlighted the significance of service and reminded the students that their chosen profession relied on their dedication to providing quality care. He also commended the faculty members for their efforts in preparing the students for their future careers.“This is our way of saying that we are proud of you, that we believe in you. That you must carry on and bring out there in the real world the brand of the CatSU. And we know that you have it, we know that our faculty members have really done so much to prepare you for that and therefore you deserve to wear this white coat today.Move on with pursuit of your career but most especially, remember that service is the most important in your choice of profession. And life depends on you”.Dr. Azanza also shared the historical context of Catanduanes, which had previously been identified as a province with nutritional problems. He acknowledged the improvements that had been achieved in the province and attributed them to the dedicated efforts of nutritionist-dietitians in implementing interventions within the communities.The CatSU president expressed his gratitude and expressed his confidence in the students' abilities. He assured them that they had been equipped with the necessary ethics, training, expertise, and moral values to provide excellent service to their future patients.The White Coat Ceremony marked a significant milestone for the students as they transitioned from being students to becoming clinical dietetics trainees. It represented the start of their clinical attachment, which would provide them with valuable hands-on experience in their field. The lecturers, faculty members, and clinical instructors had the honor of passing on the clinical white coats to the students, symbolizing their readiness for this next phase in their education and professional development. #CIV
