As part of the current administration's efforts to provide the best quality of education to its students, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) President, attended the EduCanada Pathways to Partnerships: Higher Education Forum held on March 8, 2023, at the Makati Diamond Residences in Makati City.During the forum, Dr. Azanza and his wife, Prof. Jane Rose C. Azanza, met with Canadian Ambassador David Hartman and exchanged discussions about the higher education sector, various approaches towards internationalization, including plans and programs useful to education delivery and research, as well as potential opportunities for collaboration towards internationalization.The event was attended by representatives of Canadian colleges and representatives from state universities and colleges (SUCs) in the Philippines."As we aim to achieve our target sustainable development goals for the university, it is very important and useful to become a part of this forum as we will also be able to apply and mirror the partnership opportunities here in CatSU," Dr. Azanza said.Presentations during the forum included an overview of Canadian colleges, institutes, and polytechnics to establish international partnerships, delivering micro-credentials, and enriching applied research. Moreover, the forum highlighted the one-on-one meetings between Canadian and Philippine Higher Education institutions, including Catanduanes State University. #CVecilles
The Catanduanes State University (CatSU) College of Engineering and Architecture's BS in Computer Engineering (CEA BSCpE) sent off its sixty-seven (67) fourth-year students and two (2) faculty coordinators, Engr. Ronnie B. Santelices and Engr. Morris U. Aquino, for a week-long educational tour in Metro Manila on February 26, 2023.The tour aimed to ensure a sustainable teaching and learning delivery process and included extracurricular pursuits to increase the students' learning chances and develop the connection between academia and industry in line with the Computer Engineering program criteria.Engr. Santelices, the Computer Engineering Department Chair, stated that these extracurricular activities were designed to support and help students have a more fulfilling learning experience outside the regular classroom teaching programs.During the tour, the students visited several notable institutions. At the PAGASA Science Garden in Diliman, Quezon City, they observed cutting-edge technology used to provide weather-related information, goods, and services, making communities more resilient to typhoons, floods, landslides, and other extreme weather events.The students also went to the DOST Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI) and the DOST Electronic Product Development Center (DOST-EPDC), both in Diliman, Quezon City. They were introduced to the scientific research and development of advanced domains like information and communications technology, microelectronics, and the provision of prototype design and fabrication of printed circuit boards (PCB) and electronic product testing.The tour also included a visit to Hytec Power Incorporated in Novaliches, Quezon City. Here, students learned about the provision of consistent industrial solutions to common industry problems to increase job productivity, operational efficiency, workplace safety, and job skill mismatch solutions.Another stop was Packetworx IoT Technology Hub in Ortigas Center, Pasig, Metro Manila. Packetworx is the leading source of hardware and software solutions for system integrators and developers to use in the development of various IoT solutions.Included in the itinerary also was the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) - College of Engineering and Architecture in Sta. Mesa, Manila. The students saw the college's technological advancement in computer laboratories and equipment that provides greater opportunity for students.The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde was also visited, where the Multimedia Arts curriculum combines essential skills such as communication, programming, and graphic design with cutting-edge technology like digital media and the Internet.Lastly, the group visited the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Taguig City. TESDA is mandated to establish an accreditation system for institutions engaged in middle-level manpower development and support technical education and skills development programs and initiatives. The Green Technology Center, Technology, Research and Development Division, Competence Assessment Division, Mechatronics Labs, and Learning Development Division were all made open to students.“We are thankful to our College Dean, Engr. Pedro A. Arcilla, Jr., and of course to our SUC President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, for all the support and guidance in this educational trip for our students. Our senior students are also grateful for the approval by our officials, that they have been sent to do fish bowling, have been given access to effective and engaging learning experience through worthwhile off-campus activities, and ultimately, have been given the chance of getting a taste of the real world,” Engr. Aquino said. #CVecilles
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) and the Department of Interior Local Governance (DILG) of the province recently met on March 8, 2023, to discuss a potential partnership aimed at empowering local government units (LGUs) through training.The meeting was held at the DILG provincial office, with Provincial Director Uldarico Razal, Jr., and Dr. Ramon Felipe A. Sarmiento, the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs of CatSU.The partnership aims to provide basic training on parliamentary procedure, writing ordinances and minutes, resolutions, and other related skills to communities to help them govern themselves effectively.These trainings will be made available to LGUs in the province to enhance their capacity and capability to govern. Both parties expressed their enthusiasm and commitment to the partnership, which they believe will have a positive impact on the province's communities.Dr. Sarmiento shared the importance of empowering LGUs to achieve inclusive and sustainable growth."We believe that empowering the LGUs through training will lead to more efficient and effective governance, which will ultimately benefit the people of the province,” Dr. Sarmiento said.PD Razal, Jr. also expressed his appreciation for the partnership, saying that the DILG is committed to working with CatSU to provide the necessary training to LGUs in the province.He also shared that the DILG Office has reference books where students from CatSU can use in their research.“Igwa kami uyang corner na magagamit nin mga estudyante nin CatSU para sa researches manungod sa local governance. Parte pa ini nin satuyang partnership. Bukas kami pirmi sa anuman na makatabang nin opisina,” the DILG Provincial Director said.The training is expected to start soon, and both parties hope that it will result in better governance and improved quality of life for the province's communities. With this partnership, CatSU and DILG are taking a step towards empowering LGUs and building a stronger, more resilient province. #FJBT
The Catanduanes State University, College of Business and Accountancy (CatSU CBA) in collaboration with the Department of Trade & Industry Catanduanes Provincial Office (DTI-CPO), led by its Director, Ms. Maria Belma Q. Escueta, spearheaded a forum with government agencies at the University Accreditation Room on March 9, 2023.The orientation-forum was participated by CatSU-CBA senior students who are currently implementing their business plans."As beginners in putting up a business, we deem it necessary to assist the students in helping them acquire adequate knowledge on the programs, services, and policies by DTI, local government units (LGUs), and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) that business owners and managers must be aware of, especially the start-ups," said Director Escueta.CBA Dean Ian Aranel expressed his gratitude to DTI for this important undertaking and regarded it as true entrepreneurial support."This is similar to a business readiness training and empowerment seminar. We are thankful to all the participants as well as to DTI for helping us achieve strengthened education. It is important that we prepare our students by providing on-the-job training, youth leadership learnings about business and workforce development systems," Prof. Aranel remarked. He further believes that with cooperation and strong support from government agencies, growth can be truly inclusive and provide an opportunity for a better tomorrow for our youth today. #Cvecilles
Catanduanes State University (CatSU) President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, shared the exciting news on his Facebook account that CatSU will soon offer a Master of Arts in Nursing program in the island.According to Dr. Azanza, the CatSU College of Nursing passed the Technical Panel Evaluation that began in November 2022. Once the resolution is signed, it will be forwarded to the CHED en Banc for approval.“The university has been dreaming of offering this program for over 15 years, and now islanders will have the opportunity to pursue their graduate degree in Nursing without having to spend a lot of money to cross to the mainland,” Dr. Azanza shared.The SUC President III of CatSU attributed the success of achieving the MA Nursing permit to "Teamwork".He commended the team, composed of the Executive Vice President (EVP) Dr. Lily P. Custodio, then Vice President for Academic Affairs, Vice President Dr. Bernardino C. Abundo, then Asst. Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Dean Joel T. Olfindo, for their relentless efforts to make this happen.The president expressed his gratitude to CatSU Board of Regents Chairman and the Commission on Higher Education Commissioner, Dr. Aldrin A. Darilag, CHED Regional Director, Atty. Septon Dela Cruz, and CHED RO V Education Specialist, Dr. Pamela S. Viñas, a CatSU Nursing alumna, for their all-out support in securing the MAN permit.He also announced that CatSU has secured a budget of 15 million pesos to upgrade the university's Nursing Laboratory facilities. He hopes to bring back the glory days of CatSU and be recognized as one of the top nursing schools in the country in terms of passing rates and having graduates who top or are in the top 10 of the Nursing Board Examination.Dr. Azanza is optimistic that with the strong support and cooperation from everyone, the university's goals are achievable. He also believes that with the leadership of Dr. Gemma G. Acedo and Dr. Joseph G. Zafe, the Vice President, and the Asst. Vice President for Academic Affairs, respectively, the permits for Law and Medicine, which are currently underway, will also yield positive results. #CVecilles
After 62 years, the students of Catanduanes State University (CatSU) will finally have their own building to be managed by the student council.This was the good news shared by CatSU President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza in his Facebook account.According to his post, under the General Appropriations Act 2023, the first phase of the Student Development Center, worth 25 million pesos, has been approved as one of the major projects of the current administration. The center will house all the student body organizations of each college of CatSU, together with the Office of Student Services and the Office of Student Scholarships and Assistance. Construction will commence this March 2023.He also said that the building will be equipped with meeting rooms and a student lounge with internet connection. The building will be constructed adjacent to the Men’s Dorm which is a walking distance to the Ladies Dorm, and the Sports Complex.Once completed, the building will be turned over to the Federated College Student Council (FCSC) for them to manage and decide how to use the facility. The FCSC, having its own bank account, holds the responsibility of deciding how to spend student funds, subject to COA rules, the CatSU President added.Dr. Azanza also recognized the efforts of Former Student Regent Renz Mickenley T. Tanael, now a Municipal Councilor of the Municipality of Bato, who was also part of the planning of this project. He also thanked the incumbent Student Regent Angelo Piolo M. Laynes who also extended his support to this initiative.Moreover, Dr. Azanza said that with the construction of the Student Development Center, CatSU students can look forward to having a space of their own for activities and events, as well as a center for student services and assistance. #FJBT
Dr. Balunsay is an Associate Professor V at Catanduanes State University's College of Humanities and Social Sciences. He is currently the director of the Sentro ng Wika at Kultura, an office created by the SUC President III, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, and approved by the Board of Regents in January 2022.Among his administrative designations, Dr. Balunsay served as the Graduate School Chairperson for Non Education-related graduate programs in 2021, and was previously the research coordinator at the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS). He also guided the CatSU Statesman, the university's student publication as its former adviser.From his teaching experience at DepEd in Sto. Domingo National High School in Sto. Domingo, Albay, Dr. Balunsay transferred to CatSU and began his journey in 2013 as an Instructor I. This was the start of his rising through the ranks to his current position. Dr. Balunsay has provided expert services in Research with involvement in committees covering Specialization for Undergraduate Thesis in the different programs in the College of Education, as well as in Filipino, Graduate School Level IV, and the Accreditation Task Force for Master of Arts in Filipino Education. He also served as a committee member for its Dissertation.With his expertise, he has become one of the most sought-after resource persons for Consultancy services, serving as a Panelist/Evaluator for Master's Thesis, editor and adviser of Masters in undergraduate thesis, and a LET Review lecturer. He also takes resource speakership as well.Recently, Dr. Balunsay was pleased to share the availability of physical copies of the copyrighted books which were outputs of his research in CatSU. These research outputs are for utilization in some Filipino subjects in CatSU."All outputs were submitted to the National Library for copyright registration and were approved in December 2022," Dr. Balunsay said."I am really motivated because I get to discover new knowledge, and because of that, I am more driven to create and finish instructional materials that could help our students," he added. Dr. Balunsay remarked that students need to be supported in terms of helping them understand, especially Education students, that research and teaching are two essential things they need to learn to produce higher learning outcomes, which is a vital effort in improving our quality of instruction. #CVecilles
Passing the Licensure Examination for Teachers is part of the registration process for obtaining a license to be considered a professional teacher, as stipulated in RA 7836 or the "Act to Strengthen the Regulation and Supervision of the Practice of Teaching in the Philippines and Prescribing a Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) and for other purposes."The Catanduanes State University College of Education (CatSU-COEd) is the only Higher Education Institution (HEI) on the island that offers various teacher education programs, including Bachelor in Elementary Education, Bachelor in Secondary Education, Bachelor of Culture and Education (BCAEd), Bachelor in Physical Education, and Bachelor of Technical – Vocational Education (BTVTEd). The Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSED) has six specializations: English, Filipino, Science, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Values Education. Like other HEIs or Technical Education Institutions (TEIs) in the country, CatSU-COEd aims to produce a high percentage of LET passers and, most importantly, topnotchers.In the almost two years of struggling with online learning due to the pandemic brought by the Covid-19 virus, the world's situation was nearly chaotic, and all aspects of life were adversely affected, particularly the education sector.It is for this reason that Dr. Maria Sheila R. Gregorio, Dean of the College of Education, came up with an idea on how to assist especially the COEd graduates of SY 2021-2022. Along with her able group of faculties who started it all through informal talks and merienda cena meetings, PAGGIYA was born. "PAGGIYA is a Pre-Board Examination Program that aims to help our newly Education graduates be prepared for the tough challenge," said Dr. Gregorio.PAGGIYA was a brainchild of Dr. Gregorio when she was still a member of the Faculty in February 2022, who decided to approach the then Vice President for Academic Affairs, now Executive Vice President, Dr. Lily P. Custodio, along with the rest of the COEd faculties, to propose PAGGIYA.Upon Dr. Custodio's recommendation, the proposal was approved by the SUC President III, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza.A total of 185 CoEd graduates mainly from the CatSU Main, and Panganiban campuses registered for the March 7, 2023, Pre-Board Examination."We are happy to note that we did not only cater to our very own graduates of 2022. During the registration period, a number of graduates from other schools outside CatSU and the island came and requested to participate since they have not been able to go through a formal review in a center due to a lack of financial capacity," Dr. Gregorio proudly shared.PAGGIYA's objectives include orienting and reorienting teacher education graduates to the LET process, conducting the pre-board exam for teachers, evaluating the results towards conducting the LET Enhancement Program, and continuing to provide it to teacher education graduates, ultimately ensuring that teacher education graduates will pass and top the March 2023 LET."This is just the first step. Our robust faculty who contributed to formulating the test questions and all other guidelines for the pre-board exam will evaluate and identify the points of weaknesses and where to focus strength on, conduct final coaching, as we proceed to the next step, which is the Enhancement Review," Dr. Gregorio said. The Enhancement Review is set on March 13, 2023, at the CatSU Auditorium, with Ryan A. De Mesa, LPT, MAEM, iMind Review Coordinator, and National Reviewer for Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET), Civil Service Examination (CSE), and National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) examination. “This is a collaborative effort from amongst the core faculty of College of Education and College of Humanities and Social Sciences, and College of Science. With the teamwork and cooperation from everybody, I am hopeful that these activities will yield us positive results, towards achieving our goals”, Dr. Gregorio concluded.It is worth noting that Dr. Azanza announced on his Facebook page on March 1, 2022, that he had made efforts to bring board review sessions to the island, with CatSU providing the venue, and the best reviewers being assigned for CatSU students at negotiated reasonable rates from review centers. He also initiated the efforts of finding sources of incentives for CatSU students who will top the board exam: 50K cash for those who will land in the Top 10 and 100K for Top 1. #CVecilles
On his fourth visit to Catanduanes State University (CatSU), Professor Satoshi Kubota of Kochi University, Japan shared about Biotechnology/Molecular Systems of Food Resources and Aquatic Organisms with the professors and students at the CatSU Conference Room on March 1, 2023.Dr. Kubota specifically discussed Collaborative Research under Kuroshio Science Network including the region’s History and Current Status of Biotechnological Research. He also related the Outcomes-Based Education (OBE) in Higher Education to the Current Status of Biotechnology Education in the Philippines.Kubota sensei also elaborated on the importance of the establishment of a biotechnology laboratory, such as the biotech lab in BUTC where researchers and students can have productive scientific engagements.The Kochi University Research and Education Faculty also introduced Kochi University, the Kuroshio Science Program, and other postgraduate scholarship opportunities to the attendees. The activity concluded with a forum in which Dr. Kubota and the participants discussed possible collaborations and partnerships in the future."We want to strengthen our partnership, and we are always committed to collaborating with Catanduanes State University, especially in knowledge generation and technical support in research," Dr. Kubota said.This was also emphasized by the Japanese professor in his last visit on February 21, 2019, when he said that collaboration is a must, and that the aim at Kochi University is for their students as well as exchange students not to be constrained in the laboratory.Dr. Kristian Q. Aldea, the Assistant Vice-President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs (AVP-REPA), expressed his gratitude for Sensei's timely visit and discussion of biotechnological research updates. According to him, the visit brought new ideas and development to the dynamic biotechnological field, which is applicable in many instructional and research undertakings for students and faculty members alike.Dr. Aldea, a graduate of Doctor of Philosophy in Marine Science at the Benthic Ecology at the Kochi University, Japan, emphasized the need for stronger linkage and collaboration among institutions in the Kuroshio region to achieve regional development. The visit of his Sensei highlighted the importance of biotechnological innovations and their role in advancing the field of marine science.Meanwhile, after his lecture, Dr. Kubota went to the College of Agriculture and Fisheries to check its Soil Laboratory. Several inputs were suggested to the Dean, Professor Jugie Ramos, on how to improve the laboratory's operation.Dr. Kubota, accompanied by Dr. Kristian Q. Aldea, also visited the Agoho Marine Sanctuary in San Andres and the Marilima Sanctuary in Virac. He also visited the Science laboratory of the College of Sciences and met its faculty members.On his arrival on February 28, Dr. Kubota was welcomed by Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, the SUC President III, and Dr. Ramon Felipe A. Sarmiento, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production Affairs (VP-REPA), Dr. Kristian Q. Aldea (AVP-REPA), Dr. Jose Z. Tria, Director of Research and Development Services (RDS), and Professor Zyra Mae T. Tumala, Director of the Center for International Relations and Continuing Professional Development Services (CIRCPDS).“Kubota sense's visit highlights the significance of collaborations in academic and research pursuits. Through partnerships and collaborations, institutions can achieve greater heights and contribute to regional development,” Dr. Azanza said. Prior to his visit to CatSU, Dr. Kubota also went to Benguet State University, University of the Philippines Visayas, and Bicol University. He will also visit Partido State University in Goa, Camarines Sur. #FJBT
Matagumpay na nairaos ng Sentro ng Wika at Kultura ang pagsasagawa ng Rizal Forum na may pamagat na “Muling Sulyap sa Mga Natatanging Katha ni Dr. Jose Rizal” sa Pampahalaang Unibersidad ng Catanduanes noong Marso 1, 2023.Pinangunahan ni Dr. Jovert R. Balunsay, Direktor ng Sentro ng Wika at Kultura, ang nasabing talakayan na may layuning linangin ang kaalaman at kasanayang kultural at pampanitikan ng mga kaguruang nagtuturo ng nasabing asignatura.Kasama sa mga dumalo sa gawaing ito ang mga mag-aaral na kumukuha ng General Education Courses na GEC 9 o ang Buhay at mga Akda ni Rizal.Ayon sa Direktor, ang asignaturang ito ay itinuturo sa antas tersarya bilang pagtupad sa mandato ng Republic Act 1425, na lalong kilala sa tawag na Batas Rizal.“Sa naturang batas na ito, iniuutos ang pagtuturo ng talambuhay at mga akda ng pambansang bayani bilang paraan ng paglinang sa patriotismo ng mga mag-aaral sa kolehiyo,” ani ni Dr. Balunsay.Ilan sa mga nagbigay ng panayam ay mga dalubguro na sina Prop. Francis B. Tatel na ibinahagi ang paksang “Si Rizal sa Pananaw ni Ambeth Ocampo,” Dr. Maria Charlene A. Cantar na ibinahagi ang paksang “Muling Sulyap sa mga Tula at Sanaysay ni Rizal,” at Dr. Susan M. Tindugan na nangunasa sa paksang “Mga Nobela ni Rizal: Mga Isyu at Simbolismo.”“Lagi at lagi nating pahahalagahan ang kabayanihang ipinamalas sa atin ng ating pambansang bayani. Ang kanyang buhay ay isang inspirasyon lalo na sa mga kabataang pag-asa ng bayan,” wika ni Dr. Balunsay sa pagtatapos ng nasabing gawain. #FJBT
The Political Science Society (PSS) organized the PSS Cup: The Pandemonium on March 1, 2023, at the CatSU Gymnasium to raise awareness among Political Science students about their crucial role in fighting against misinformation, propaganda, and fake news by advocating for information literacy on various platforms.The event also aimed to foster camaraderie among society members, improve their morale, leadership, and skills, and create an effective organization.The theme of the event, "Strengthening and fortifying one's voice within," encouraged students to showcase their passion and voice through various contests such as Extemporaneous Speech, Photo Essay, Poem Writing, Battle of the Brains, Team-Building Activities and Games, Debate, and Talent Showdown.Atty. Rene John M. Velasco, the guest speaker, emphasized the importance of critical thinking and fact-checking among peers and in communities."As Political Science students, you all played a crucial role in combating misinformation, propaganda, and fake news by advocating for information literacy on various platforms. With your understanding of how politics and media intersect, you can promote critical thinking and fact-checking among your peers and in your communities," Atty. Velasco shared.Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUMSS), Dr. Jimmylen Z. Tonio, supported Atty. Velasco's message to the Political Science students."By sharing accurate and reliable sources of information and encouraging others to do the same, political science students could help prevent the spread of false information and promote a more informed and engaged citizenry," Dean Tonio said.Richard Abenir, the President of PSS, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to develop the abilities of Political Science students to become leaders in the fight against misinformation and help build a better-informed society.Alumni from the CatSU Political Science program also attended the fellowship night's closing activity.Atty. Michael Marquez, Mr. Remelito Cabrera, former Vice Mayor of Panganiban, and presently an Instructor I at CHUMSS, as well as Mr. Jomel T. Romero, Mr. Pastor Marquez, Mr. Jozem Nino I. Morales, who are also Instructors from CHUMSS, Ms. Mary Franz O. Soquerata, Nino Joshua Santelices, Lao Ogerio, Arnel S. Clavo, RJ Vela, Abel Tuzara, and Christian Torrena were among the alumni who attended the event. #FJBT
The Office of Student Affairs and Development Services (OSADS) of Catanduanes State University (CatSU) has started its re-orientation program for all college students for the second semester of the school year 2022-2023. The program aims to educate and inform the students about the existing Student Handbook (version 2018) and other laws related to their behavior, discipline, and conduct as premier university students. The OSADS has set objectives that will enhance the understanding of the students in various academic and non-academic approaches. The students will learn the proper ways of addressing issues and concerns that may arise from time to time in their respective colleges. Specific topics such as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act, Bomb Threats, and Anti-Sexual Harassment Law and Violence Against Women and Children and Safe Space Act will be discussed. In addition, the re-orientation program will include reminders on the use of university facilities, University Traffic Laws and Rules, and Respect and Appreciation for Individual and Socio-Cultural Differences. The program is aimed to educate and equip the students with skills to educate their co-students about the appropriate behavior as a student of a premier university of the Island-province. The OSADS believes that this program will help the students to be aware of the laws that are eminent for human existence and to act accordingly. The program facilitators were the Chief of Police - Virac, PMAJ Robert Kevin T Caparroso, PSSG Antonino B. Aquino, PMCS Josephine Bergonio, Prof. John Cyrus B. Francis, Dr. Ryan T. Timbal, Mr. Noly T. Benavides, Ms. Janette O. Labayani, and Engr. Benjamin Hannycel T. Nuyda. The schedules of the University-wide Re-Orientation were as follows: College of Agriculture and Fisheries (March 2), College of Education (March 3), College of Engineering and Architecture (March 6), College of Humanities and Social Sciences (March 8), College of Science (March 13), College of Business and Accountancy (March 15), College of Health Sciences (March 16), College of Industrial Technology (March 17), and College Information and Communications Technology (March 20). Prof. John Cyrus Francis, OSADS Director, hopes that with the re-orientation program, CatSU is confident that its students will become responsible and disciplined citizens who will be instrumental in nation-building. #FJBT
