ISAT U Alumni Association Conducts Organizational Meeting and Strategic Planning in Antique

From February 28 to March 2, 2025, the ISAT U Alumni Association, Inc. conducted an Organizational Meeting at the University of Antique in Sibalom, Antique, and Aningalan, San Remegio, Antique. The purpose was to reorganize faculty who are ISAT University alumni to lead the Antique Chapter, draft a 3-Year Strategic Plan, and prepare the 2025 Annual Budget.

The ISAT U Alumni Association, Inc. recently conducted an Organizational Meeting with the faculty of the University of Antique who are ISATU alumni. The purpose was to revive the organization and encourage more members in the Province of Antique. Additionally, a 3-Year Strategic Planning session and FY 2025 Budgeting were conducted.

This activity provided an opportunity for alumni to reconnect with their alma mater and share experiences in achieving the university’s mission, vision, and goals. It also aimed to foster collaboration, strategic growth, and financial planning for the future success of the ISAT U Alumni Association.

A. Conduct of Organizational Meeting with ISAT U Alumni in University of Antique

The meeting with ISAT U alumni at the University of Antique is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen alumni relations. The ISAT U Alumni Affairs and Relations Office has been actively engaged in initiatives such as the I-Connect program to connect with alumni. These meetings serve as platforms to share insights, discuss collaborations, and develop mentorship programs that benefit both students and alumni.

B. ISAT U Alumni Association, Inc. 3-Year Strategic Planning

The 3-Year Strategic Planning session focused on aligning the association’s goals with the university’s strategic objectives. This process involved setting clear goals, identifying key initiatives, and developing action plans. The strategic planning sessions are designed to keep the association relevant and effective in supporting the university.

C. FY 2025 Budgeting

The budgeting process for FY 2025 is a vital component of the strategic planning efforts. It involves allocating resources to various initiatives and programs aligned with the ISAT U Alumni Association’s mission and vision. This ensures financial stability for alumni engagement, networking events, and other programs that contribute to university development.


Highlights of the Activity / Topics

Day 1: Travel and Organizational Meeting

  • Travel to the University of Antique.
  • Reorganized the alumni association in the University of Antique.
  • Meet and greet with faculty who are alumni of ISAT University.
  • Presentation of the activity’s rationale.
  • Introduction of participants from ISAT U Alumni Association, Iloilo City Campus, and representatives from ISAT U Alumni Affairs and Relations Office.
  • Introduction of University of Antique faculty who are ISATU alumni.
  • Election of ISATU Alumni Association, University of Antique Chapter Officers:President: Dr. Bobby Villalobos
    Vice President: Dr. Wilfredo Muhat
    Secretary: Ms. Myra Napuay
    Treasurer: Mr. Jun Rey Villarta
    Auditor: Ms. April de la Torre
    Business Manager: Mr. Kenrick Augustin S. Secugal
    Board of Directors:
    • Ms. Fema Rose Ecraela
    • Ms. Charrie Nieles
    • Ms. Ammy Rose Gamarcha
    • Ms. Dareca Tejado
    • Mr. Donald Esposo
    • Ms. Loujenet L. de la Cruz
    • Ms. Katherine Faith Jamco
    • Mr. Jay Ian Escosalan
    • Ms. Mae Jou Vendez Murata
    The oathtaking will be held in December during the Alumni Homecoming.

Day 2: 3-Year Strategic Planning and FY 2025 Budget Planning

  • Gathering of inputs and identification of key reform areas, including:
    1. Policy and Administration
    2. Leadership
    3. Publicity and Promotion
    4. Facility
    5. Social Responsibility
    6. Rewards
    7. Membership
    8. Financial Stability
  • The total budget for FY 2025 amounts to Two Million Pesos (Php 2,000,000.00).

Day 3: Environmental Scanning and Departure

  • Environmental scanning activities and journey back home.

Insights & Recommendations

  1. It is recommended that this activity be supported by different ISATU alumni chapters. There is also a strong recommendation to expand global connections both nationally and internationally.
  2. The Alumni Homecoming will be rescheduled from December 29 to the 3rd Saturday of December each year to allow more alumni to attend before the Christmas vacation and provide opportunities for those coming from distant places to celebrate the holidays with their families.

List of Participants

ISAT U Alumni Association, Inc. Officers:

  • Atty. Leo S. Sombiro – President
  • Dr. Ricardo B. Abaleña – Executive Vice President
  • Ms. Rgedel B. Macaroy – Vice President for External Affairs
  • Dr. Pacifico N. Senador – Vice President for Internal Affairs
  • Ms. Mercy L. Diaz – Executive Secretary
  • Dr. Alma Palabrica – Recording Secretary
  • Dr. Emma L. Paclibar – Treasurer
  • Dr. Ely S. Ciasico – Assistant Treasurer
  • Mr. Esmael P. Tayona – Auditor
  • Mr. Ernesto G. Penuela – Trustee
  • Mr. Jasper Pastrano – Trustee
  • Mr. Ronnel Domines – Alumni Affairs and Relations (CAS Coordinator)

ISAT U Earns National Recognition for Excellence in Teacher Education Programs

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) has been recognized with the Excellence in Quality Assurance in Teacher Education (EQUATE) award, distinguishing it among the nation’s top institutions for teacher preparation.

The prestigious accolade was presented during a formal ceremony at the Manila Hotel in Ermita, Manila. ISAT U was selected as one of only 110 recipients from a pool of 1,553 Teacher Education Institutions (TEIs) nationwide, placing it in the top seven percent of the country’s teacher training programs.

The EQUATE award follows a comprehensive evaluation process that assessed multiple quality indicators, including program accreditation status, compliance with Commission on Higher Education (CHED) standards, and performance in the Board Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (BLEPT).

ISAT University President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr. accepted the award alongside Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Corazon C. Corbal and College of Education Dean Dr. Joel Ciriaco.

“This recognition validates our institution’s commitment to excellence in pre-service teacher education and our ongoing efforts to produce highly qualified education professionals,” said Dr. Salistre.

The EQUATE award serves as a national benchmark for quality teacher education programs and reinforces ISAT University’s position as a leading academic institution in the Philippines’ education sector.

ISAT University Hosts First Quarter Review of Futures Thinking Research Initiative

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) conducted its Futures Thinking Research & Development First Quarter Review at Smallville 21 Hotel in Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut, Vice President for Research and Extension, is leading the event with a presentation on the future trajectory of research and development initiatives within the university.

The comprehensive review features detailed updates on ongoing research and development proposals across key focus areas: Smart University, Smart Farming and Integrated Sustainable Agriculture, and Gender Studies.

Participants engaged in collaborative workshops designed to identify challenges and opportunities within these research domains. The sessions aim to refine the university’s strategic research roadmap and establish clear pathways for future development.

The event serves as a platform for researchers and administrators to collectively shape ISAT U’s forward-looking research agenda through interactive discussions and strategic planning exercises.

ISAT U Engineers Clinch Top National Rankings in February 2025 ME Board Examination

Graduates from Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) have earned top rankings in the February 2025 Mechanical Engineer Licensure Examination (MELE), with the university also surpassing the national passing rate.

Engr. Ivan Joey Ablanido Gadot placed second nationwide with a score of 92.50%, while Engr. Francis Vonn Gonzaga Jesura secured sixth place with 89.80%. Both are Magna Cum Laude graduates from the Class of 2024.

“We are incredibly proud of their hard work, dedication, and exceptional performance on the licensure exam,” said ISAT U President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr. “Their success is a testament to their hard work and the quality of education provided by our Mechanical Engineering program.”

In a media interview, Engr. Gadot expressed that his only desire was to pass and that he is not expecting so much considering the level of difficulty of the board exam questions. Engr. Jesura for his part emphasized the value of focus in preparing for the exams. Both topnotchers hailed from the Province of Guimaras.

ISAT U demonstrated strong overall performance with 44 out of 68 first-time examinees passing, resulting in a 64.71% passing rate for first-time takers. The university’s overall passing rate of 61.97% significantly exceeded the national average of 48.91%.

Photos by Francis Vonn Gonzaga Jesura and Ivan Joey A Gadot on Facebook

ISAT U Alumnus Wins Prestigious TernoCon 2025

Peter Gagula, known professionally as Peach Garde, an alumnus and part-time faculty member of Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U), has been crowned the winner of TernoCon 2025. The prestigious national terno-making competition is jointly organized by the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and BENCH/Suyen Corporation.

Garde emerged victorious among 12 talented finalists during the competition’s culminating cultural show held on January 25, 2025. His winning collection beautifully reinterpreted 20th-century Philippine visual arts through three exquisite pieces:

  • A formal terno with pañuelo,
  • A formal Balintawak with alampay and tapis, and
  • A formal Kimona featuring butterfly sleeves with alampay and patadyong.

“This achievement not only honors ISAT U but also showcases Ilonggo excellence in preserving and innovating Philippine traditional fashion,” said Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr., ISAT U President. “Mr. Garde’s victory reflects our university’s commitment to nurturing creative talents who contribute to our cultural heritage.”

A Celebration of Philippine Art and Fashion

The competition began with an intensive two-day lecture series led by renowned fashion and art authorities, including Gino Gonzales, multi-disciplinary artist Mark Lewis Lim Higgins, and chief curator Ma. Victoria ‘Boots’ Herrera. Participants were challenged to create collections inspired by the intricate movements, perspectives, and principles found in Philippine paintings, architecture, and sculptures.

Peach Garde’s winning collection stands as a testament to the evolving artistry of the Philippine terno, joining the legacy of celebrated works, such as the collection by 2023 winner Yssa Inumerable.

Photo Credits

Images from the event, including Garde’s winning collection, are credited to TernoCon 2025.

University Conducts System Wide Pre-Opening Conference for 2nd Semester

In preparation for the opening of classes on January 13, the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs conducted a System wide Pre-opening Conference held at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel.

During the event, 49 newly appointed faculty from five different campuses of the university took oath.  The new director for the Safety, Security, Environment and Disaster, Management Mitigation Office, Mr. Manfred Von Magat also took his official oath of office. Mr. Magat was a faculty member of the College of Arts and Sciences before he was designated to the position.

Dr. Emily dela Cruz, outgoing Gender and Development Center Director was also given a plaque in recognition of her service to the university. Dr. Emily dela Cruz served the GAD Center from 2008 – 2021 as GAD Focal Person, and served as its Director from January 4, 2021 to January 5, 2025. Dr. Dela Cruz is now the designated Director of the Office of the Student Affairs and Services.

In his speech, the University President, Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr., congratulated the faculty for their untiring performance to maintain academic integrity and their commitment to serve the clientele. He also recognized the relentless efforts of each one that makes up the ISAT U community. He proudly enumerated the university’s achievements and emphasized that the administration will always work hard for the benefit of everybody, and that no campus will be left behind. ‘Together, we have risen above challenges and demonstrated the power of unity in purpose and action.” Dr. Salistre also encouraged everyone to aspire for even greater accomplishments and work together to elevate ISAT U.

The Vice Presidents for Academic Affairs, Administration and Finance, External Affairs and Research and Extension reported their accomplishments and gave updates and reminders on the programs under their offices.

On the lighter side, Dr. Heinz B. Gumaquil, Director of the Public Information and Communications Office, introduced the updated University Profile and the modified video for ISAT U Hymn.

The Pre-opening Conference was attended by faculty members from five different campuses of Iloilo Science and Technology University namely the Iloilo City Campus, Barotac Nuevo Campus, Dumangas, Leon and Miagao Campus.

HRMO Conducts Orientation for Newly hired Faculty and Non-teaching Personnel

Iloilo Science and Technology University made a fresh start this year by appointing 52 new members of the University.  With this, an orientation was conducted today, January 8, 2025 at the HRT Center, to present to them the work hours and work arrangement implemented by the university including the use of pass slips. Also discussed were work ethics based on RA 6713 or the Rules Implementing the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees; customer service relations; and the rules on leave. Ms. Nelfa J. Ampatuan, the Supervising Administrative  Officer and at the same time the concurrent Acting HRMO Unit Head, emphasized that they are expected to familiarize the values and culture of  the institution as they are also expected to contribute their skills and expertise for the growth and success of ISAT U.

On the other hand, Dr. Frisian Y. Causing explained  the ISO 9001 awareness, its importance and its effect on the daily operations of the university.

The university welcomed forty-nine newly appointed instructors, 5 of them from Barotac Nuevo Campus, 6 from Dumangas, 2 from Leon, 21 from Iloilo City Campus and 15 from Miagao Campus. Iloilo City Campus has a newly hired Attorney IV for the Office of the Legal Affairs, 1 Accountant I for Finance Services Division and 1 Administrative Aide VI for the Industry Linkages and Development Office.

Earlier this, they also had a meet and greet with the University President, Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr., at his office.

The orientation program was headed by the HRMO together with the Vice President for Administration and Finance, Dr. Russ Allen B. Napud, and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Corazon C. Corbal.

ISAT U Hosts Alumni Homecoming 2024

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) warmly welcomed its alumni on December 29, 2024, as part of its annual homecoming celebration and Family Day. This year’s celebration brought classmates, friends, and teachers altogether to the Iloilo City Campus for the different activities.

With the theme “Celebrating our heritage, inspiring the present, shaping the future,”, the alumni started their day with a parade from the old site and crossing to the new site through the bridge that joins the old and the new site. They walked past through the hanging garden, going to the Research Hub, then to the alumni Park and finally went back to the old site and stopped by every new building of the campus for picture taking. The solemnity of the holy mass bound them to continue the friendship and celebration of the day.

The homecoming was also the avenue to select the new Board of Trustees for 2025- 2026. This year’s elected Board of Trustees for the alumni are Mr. Ricardo B. Abaleňa, Ms. Alma C. Palabrica, Mr. Gilmore L. Baldevarona, Mr. Ely S. Ciasico, Mr. Rgedel M. Buenaflor and Ms. Mercy L. Diaz.  Also, during the program, some distinguished alumni were presented and awarded. For the distinguished alumni in the field of Education, the awardees were Ms. Edna T. Arbon, Dr. May Jenny C. Arceňa, Mr. Eufrocino A. Cajuyong, Mr. Melchor T. Tagudando. Awarded as distinguished alumni in Public Service was Ms. Michelle C. Juanga; for Education and Industry, Mr. Porferio C. Geremia; for Industry, Mr. Jose C. Geremia; for Military, Lt. Col. Ryan S. Matutina and Maj. Alger C. Depositario (CE), PA; for Religious, Fr. Jose Felix C. Cortez, SS. Dr. David T. Go received the Silver Award while a Posthumous Award was given to Mr. Mamerto G. Gonzales and was received by his family. Later in the afternoon, the raffle of door prizes and Bingo perked them up before they proceeded to their respected batch meeting.

Indeed, this homecoming did not only go beyond a series of events and long-time friendship and camaraderie but it also played a vital role in community building and fostering a sense of belongingness.

ISAT U-PICO Wins Top Regional Awards for Communication Excellence

The Public Information and Communications Office (PICO) of Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) clinched multiple awards at the 2024 Regional Information Summit held at District 21 Hotel on December 12, 2024.

ISAT U-PICO secured 3rd place in the Best Agency Facebook Page category, outperforming numerous national government agencies and local government units across Western Visayas. The office also dominated the State Universities and Colleges (SUC) category by winning Best Newsletter for “The Hammer” and Best Brochure for the “ISAT U Profile.”

The annual summit, jointly organized this year by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) and the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), recognizes excellence in government communication and information dissemination across the region.

“These awards reflect our commitment to effective communication and public service,” said ISAT U President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr. “PICO’s achievements demonstrate our university’s dedication to transparency and engagement with our stakeholders.”

The Facebook page award particularly highlighted ISAT U-PICO’s strategic use of social media to showcase university achievements, engage with stakeholders, and provide timely information to the academic community.

The winning publications, “The Hammer” and “ISAT U Profile,” were recognized for their comprehensive content, design excellence, and effectiveness in communicating the university’s programs and achievements.

The Regional Information Summit serves as a platform for government information officers to share best practices and strengthen their communication strategies in service of their respective institutions and communities.

ISAT U Victorious in RSCUAA VI 2024

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) defended its championship crown for the fifth time in the Regional State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (RSCUAA) Sports Festival and Conference 2024. Held on December 15 – 20, 2024, the annual sports event gathered 13 State Universities and Colleges throughout the region with this year’s theme, “One Western Visayas: Promoting Peace, Inclusivity, and Well Being through Sports”, and Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) as this year’s host.

ISAT U Athletes whose skills, teamwork, and true sportsmanship, gave a good fight to defend the university championship crown and dominated the games with 96 gold medals, 68 silvers and 64 bronze. Starting from day 1, the Technobees were unstoppable, winning every competition until the semis. As they approached day 3 and 4, they were already busy counting their gold medals and silvers. However, this did not restrain them from continuously leading more games until they finally emerged victorious.

Some of these games which brought them gold are Chess (Men & Women); Badminton, karatedo, Arnis, Beach Volleyball, and many more. After five days of dominating the games, ISAT U was officially awarded the championship title, with Capiz State University (CAPSU) coming 2nd and West Visayas State University (WVSU) as 3rd place.  During the closing program at the Tamasak Arena in Barotac Nuevo, the torch was officially passed on to Northern Iloilo State University (NISU) as the next year’s host of RSCUAA VI.

The five championship titles received by ISAT U in the RSCUAA is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and team work of all the ISAT U athletes and coaches. Kudos! The ISAT U Community is so proud of you.