ISAT U Kicks Off ASEAN Month with Flag Ceremony and Cultural Showcase

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) marked the beginning of ASEAN Month with a flag ceremony today. The event, held on campus, featured a series of activities highlighting the university’s commitment to ASEAN awareness and regional cooperation.

The ceremony commenced with the raising of ASEAN flags, led by ISAT U President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr., accompanied by members of the Administrative Council Officials. This symbolic act underscored the university’s recognition of its role within the broader ASEAN community.

Dr. Juniffer Badoles, Director of National and International Affairs (NIA), delivered the opening remarks, setting the tone for the celebration. The event then featured a concise ASEAN presentation, followed by an engaging question-and-answer session led by Hannah Grace Ortequia, ISAT U’s student ambassador.

A highlight of the celebration was the ASEAN costume presentation. Administrative Council Officials and representatives from various colleges of the Iloilo City Campus showcased traditional attire from ASEAN member countries, offering a visual representation of the region’s rich cultural diversity.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the ISAT U Performing Arts group presented a cultural number, demonstrating the university’s commitment to preserving and promoting regional artistic traditions.

The event culminated with a message from President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr., who reiterated ISAT U’s dedication to fostering ASEAN integration and understanding. “As we celebrate ASEAN Month, let us take this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to these values of connectivity and resilience. Let us embrace the diversity that makes ASEAN so unique and learn from each other’s experiences and perspectives.”

This flag ceremony marks the beginning of a month-long celebration of ASEAN at ISAT U, aimed at enhancing students’ knowledge of regional affairs and promoting a sense of ASEAN identity within the academic community.

The event shows ISAT U’s proactive approach in aligning its educational mission with broader regional goals, preparing students for active participation in an increasingly interconnected ASEAN community.

Empowering Future ISAT U Innovators: The Impact of the WEN IGNITE Program

In an age where technology is evolving rapidly and the economy shifts globally, innovative educational initiatives are needed more than ever. The WEN IGNITE Program of Batch June-July 2024 is one such transformative initiative aimed at promoting technopreneurship and entrepreneurship among faculty members as spearheaded by the Wadwani Foundation Faculty Development Program.
The webinar workshop had a dedicated team from Iloilo Science and Technology University involving various educational methodologies and entrepreneurial spirit throughout 6 weeks of ventures webinar.
ISAT U utilized varied facets of entrepreneurship through robust curriculum delivery. The first half of the seminar centered on foundational concepts such as Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Case-Based Teaching Pedagogy, Problem Identification, Competition Analysis, or Business Models. In addition to equipping teachers with knowledge on how to teach entrepreneurship better, this all-encompassing technique prompted them to evaluate real-world applications critically. 

In the Pedagogy Assessment, the ISAT U team presented a case study like “Desi Hangover.” This activity emphasizes that practical learning experiences are crucial in nurturing future entrepreneurs. Additionally, the CEA team composed of Dr. Rowena Calasara, Dr, Corazon Corbal, Engr. Naci John Trance, Ar. Ma. Regina Falconite and Engr. Adrian Pillano showcased an innovative project called “ANI Disenyo at Teknolohiya.” In essence, this is a system developed by the team to mediate between tomato growers and clients with request for tomatoes. The system will serve as a meeting point where customers can post their requests for tomatoes which would be answered by the respective tomato farmer. The customer in this context refers to a group of restaurants/fast-food chains and hotels that food with tomatoes as one of the ingredients. It maintains records of verified customers as well as genuine tomato farmers. Although it initially considers local variety, survey will be conducted among clients so as to establish which type they prefer best.

The CAS team presented their ventures “ISAT U Social Entrepreneurs” by Dr. Yvette Gonzales, Michelle Escriba, Lloyd Esparagoza and Rayjand Gellamucho while from the CIT team, composed of Ma. Cora Biton, Alma Espora, Shella Suarez, Pearlesane Joy Segura and Gener Jamoyot which was presented their venture titled, “Balance Wanderers Brigade”.

In conclusion, the WEN IGNITE program is not just an invaluable teaching resource for college professors but also a vital link in building an ecosystem for entrepreneurship and innovation. Through investment in the training of teachers Mr Wadhwani has been laying framework for those who will be commanders of economic expansion and social transformation in the years to come. The implementation of such programs by universities has opened up avenues towards dealing with enduring problems facing mankind.

Sustainable Agriculture Takes Center Stage in University’s Futures Thinking Workshop

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) conducted the third leg of its Futures Thinking activity from August 1 to 3, 2024, at its Leon Campus. The three-day event focused on sustainable integrated farming and smart vertical farming, marking a significant step in the university’s commitment to agricultural innovation and sustainability.

Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut, Vice President for Research and Extension, led the initiative, which brought together faculty, researchers, and other stakeholders. The activity was divided into two main groups: one concentrating on sustainable integrated farming methods, conducted on-site, and another exploring smart vertical farming techniques.

The event began with introductory lectures explaining the rationale behind the Futures Thinking approach. Participants were then tasked with an intensive brainstorming session, working to complete three strategic planning templates. These templates were designed to capture integrated plans and detailed execution strategies for future agricultural and business practices.

Following the group work, each team presented their outputs to a plenary session. These presentations were subjected to rigorous scrutiny and commentary from peers and experts, fostering a collaborative environment for refining ideas.

Dr. Ambut emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “This activity is crucial in shaping ISAT U’s approach to agricultural education and research. We’re not just thinking about tomorrow; we’re planning for decades ahead.”

ISAT University is taking concrete steps to implement the insights gained from this Futures Thinking activity. The institution is planning complementary training workshops and related activities to embed these forward-thinking approaches into the university’s long-term roadmap.

This event represents ISAT U’s ongoing commitment to staying at the forefront of agricultural innovation and sustainable practices in higher education. The university aims to use these insights to inform curriculum development, research priorities, and community engagement initiatives in the coming years.

The Futures Thinking activity at Leon Campus is part of a larger series of events designed to position ISAT University as a leader in anticipating and preparing for future challenges in various fields, with a particular focus on sustainable and smart agriculture.

ISAT U Launches Native Tree Growing and Propagation Program

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) launched its “Native Tree Growing and Propagation Program” today at the TLE Center. The initiative aims to support climate change mitigation and promote local biodiversity.

Cherry Pink Barredo, a faculty member of the Community Development Program, served as the main resource person. Barredo discussed the benefits of using native trees in reforestation efforts, highlighting their adaptability to local conditions and positive impact on ecosystem restoration.

The event began with welcome remarks from Rosanna Dureza, ISAT U’s Climate Change Coordinator. Dureza provided a brief lecture on climate change, emphasizing the urgency of environmental action.

Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut, Vice President for Administration and Finance, delivered a compelling message during the program. He stressed the importance of taking concrete action, such as planting native trees, rather than merely discussing environmental issues. “It’s time we move beyond lectures and start making tangible contributions to our environment,” Dr. Ambut stated.

The program, organized by the SSEDMMO-Environment and Climate Change Core Group and Community Development Program, marks a significant step in ISAT U’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development.

The university plans to implement the native tree growing initiative across its campus and in partnership with local communities, aiming to create a lasting positive impact on the region’s biodiversity and climate resilience.

PICO Attends FOI Receiving Officers’ Hangouts

The university Public Information and Communications Office (PICO) through its representatives attended the annual FOI Receiving Officers’ Hangouts of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) through its Freedom of Information-Program Management Office (FOI-PMO). This national event was held at the Coral Ballroom of the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel on July 18, 2024 and was attended by PICO’s Information Officer 3, Lucille P. Jaspe and Jephthah C. Sustituido, Information Officer I.

Central to the goal of championing the right to access government information are the FOI Officers, who play a vital role in advocating for and ensuring the effective implementation of the program within their respective agencies. As frontliners it is crucial to capacitate the FOI Officers to implement the FOI Program efficiently. Thus, this event was conducted to expand their networks and advance their abilities and knowledge in bridging government information to the public.

The activities during the FOI-RO Hangouts included the discussions on the major accomplishments, challenges, and innovative solutions to further the improvement of the implementation of the FOI Program. Handling FOI Requests, Data Privacy Issues, List of FOI exceptions, program monitoring and evaluation and    eFOI portal were also discussed.

As Ms. Dianne M. Gammad, Senior Compliance Monitoring Officer discussed, ”it is important to monitor the FOI requests, update the status to the requestor and make sure that the releasing of the documents conforms the standard period which is 7-15-20 or the maximum of 35 working days.”  She added that In case of delays, the last person who holds the document is the person accountable for the action and shall face the consequences under the FOI Policy.

The FOI Receiving Officers Hangouts also serves as an avenue for sharing best practices in accessing information, collaborating with other agencies and identifying documents for public consumption and are frequently requested. It was also advised by Ms. Marinella R. Ricafrance, Engagement Officer of the Presidential Communication Office that eFOI is currently under maintenance as they improve the portal for a more efficient and effective service.

HRMO Conducts SHARP

To improve productivity in the office especially public service, the Iloilo Science and Technology University Human Resource Management Office gathered its newly hired and promoted employees to a two-day Seminar Workshop and Lecture Forum at the Students Services Building of the university on July 11 – 12, 2024. Human Resource Management Officer III, Mr. Bonnie S. Arenal designed SHARP or the Seminar Workshop on Harnessing Agility and Responsiveness in Public Service which included Seminar-workshop on Soft Skills Needed for Workplace Agility and Lecture –Forum on Disciplinary and Non- Disciplinary Cases under the Revised  Rules on Administrative Cases in Civil Service.

On the first day of this activity, it was emphasized by Ms. Rowena Y. Diaz, resource person on Building Soft Skills Needed for Workplace Agility, that “to be able to achieve the goals of the institution, the Human Resource Office must be able to hire the right person for every position that it creates. “A mismatched,” according to her, “would create problems thus resulting to non-achievable goals. Aside from the hard skills or technical knowledge that is required, an employee must also possess soft skills or personality traits such as leadership, communication skills and time management.

Ms. Diaz who is also a soft skill training consultant, discussed agility in the workplace, managing difficult people, how to become an active listener, stress management and workplace ethics. The participants had a great time doing the crossword puzzle and the spaghetti-marshmallows tower which tested their team work and stress management.

The second day of the seminar became intensed as Atty. Erna T. Elizan, Assistant Regional Director of the Civil Service Commission Regional Office 6, discussed the disciplinary cases and classification of offenses in the workplace. She emphasized that government employees are like celebrities who are accountable of their actions at all times even after the employee’s work schedule is done. However, she clarified that, “The CSC Rules, as well as the rules of the university, are not made to punish but to correct employees.” Also part of the discussion was the Revised Rules on the Administrative offense on dishonesty, misconduct, tardiness, online sexual harassment, nepotism and many others. Sample cases were also presented for participants’ additional information. An open forum was conducted after the lecture to shed light to certain questions especially on falsification of documents, nepotism and absenteeism.

The two-day seminar workshop concluded with the participants being grateful for the opportunity of learning new ideas on building up confidence, improving their soft skills and gaining an understanding of the CSC Rules on Administrative Offenses.

ISAT U Joins Multi-Sectoral Advisory Council for Local Governance

ISAT University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Iloilo Province to become part of the Multi-Sectoral Advisory Council (MSAT). This partnership aims to facilitate knowledge and expertise sharing among local government units and member agencies.

The MSAT will focus on areas such as public administration, disaster risk management, community development, and local governance. Other members of the council include national government agencies like the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Philippine National Police (PNP), and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), and CSO like JCI Iloilo. Learning institutions joining ISAT University in the council are Central Philippine University (CPU), University of San Agustin, West Visayas State University (WVSU), Northern Iloilo State University (NISU), and UP Visayas.

The signing ceremony was part of the 2nd edition of ‘KUMBUYAHAN,’ a project organized by DILG Iloilo Province. This initiative brings together experts and stakeholders to assist local government units in improving their operations and qualifying for the Seal of Good Local Governance.

Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut, ISAT University’s VP for Research and Extension, represented President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr. at the event. He was accompanied by PICO Director Dr. Heinz B. Gumaquil. Other notable attendees included DILG Iloilo Provincial Director Engr. Carmelo F. Orbista, Dr. Lenny Mucho representing CPU, and Dr. Peter Ernie D. Paris, WVSU’s VP for Administration and Finance.

This collaboration is expected to enhance the capabilities of local government units in the region through the combined expertise of the participating institutions and agencies.

University shines at CHED Regional Quality Awards

Iloilo Science and Technology University has proven once again its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, innovation and community service in the 3rd Regional Quality Awards of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) on May 29, 2024 held at Urdaneta Hall, University of San Agustin.

Emerging as one of the most awarded SUCs, ISAT U received eight awards namely Outstanding Board Performance Award; SUCs/LUCs with 100% COPCs of Undergraduate Programs; Award for Excellence in Research; Award for Excellence in Internationalization Initiatives; Awards for Excellence in Peace Education; Model Implementer: STuFAPS; Model Implementer: SIKAP and Recognition for the Provision of Support to the CHEDRO VI’s Endeavors. Dr. Russ Allen B. Napud, VP for Administration and Finance and Dr. Corazon C. Corbal, VP for Academic Affairs received the awards together with the esteemed members of the Administrative Council.

These awards were garnered by the university because of its efforts in always securing a spot in the top performing universities in board exams in engineering as well as the teachers’ board. In addition to the pursuit for academic excellence, ISAT U has also invested time in research and innovation and in nurturing its relationship with its local and international partners as well as to the local recipients of the different scholarships given by CHED.

The 3rd Regional Quality Awards is part of the celebration of CHED’s 30th Founding Anniversary. Through this activity, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) seeks to recognize the efforts and initiatives of higher education institutions (HEIs) in the field of instructions, research and community extension.

Mozi Workshop Launching Ceremony Marks Milestone in ISAT U’s Technological Advancement

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) celebrated a momentous occasion with the inauguration of the Mozi Workshop and the orientation held at the CEA Building, CHERC ISAT U New Site on May 21, 2024, showcased the university’s commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in electrical and electronics engineering.

Central to the ceremony was the generous donation of state-of-the-art laboratory equipment by the Liaoning Province in China, facilitated through the Liaoning Jianzhu Vocational Educational Technology Co. Ltd. Spearheaded by Ms. Ann Qun, Vice President of Liaoning Jianzhu Vocational College, the Liaoning Province’s contribution signifies a profound collaboration between nations in advancing educational initiatives.

The turnover ceremony was a pivotal moment, symbolizing the official transfer of the equipment to ISAT U. Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr., the esteemed President III of ISAT U, presided over the ceremony alongside Ms. Ann Qun and representatives from Yalong Intelligent Equipment Group Co. Ltd. Their presence underscored the significance of this partnership in bolstering the university’s academic and research capabilities.

The ceremony drew a distinguished audience, including representatives from the board of regents, faculty members from the College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) and the College of Industrial Technology (CIT), college deans, members of the Academic Development Committee Office (ADCO), and dedicated staff from ISAT U. Their collective presence exemplified the shared vision of advancing technological education and research excellence.

The newly acquired equipment, fully installed in Laboratory Rooms 112, 114, and 115 of the CEA Building, represents a substantial enhancement to ISAT U’s infrastructure. With cutting-edge resources now at their disposal, students and faculty alike are poised to engage in hands-on learning experiences, conduct groundbreaking research, and contribute meaningfully to the fields of electrical and electronics engineering.

 As ISAT U embarks on this new chapter of technological advancement, the Mozi Workshop stands as a testament to the university’s unwavering commitment to excellence, collaboration, and student-centered learning. With the support of its partners and stakeholders, ISAT U is poised to empower the next generation of engineers and technologists, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

University commemorates Charter Anniversary

The Iloilo Science and Technology University community renewed its commitment to excellence in its commemoration of ISAT U 9th Charter Anniversary from May 15 to 18, 2024. The four-day celebration commenced with a caravan initiated by ISAT U Miagao Campus on May 15 which started in Brgy. Calampitao, Guimbal, Iloilo. Delegates from different campuses of ISAT U, adorned in “Pista sa Nayon” attire participated in the event.

At the opening program, Dr. Ramon N. Emmanuel, Jr., Campus Administrator of ISAT U Miagao, expressed his appreciation for the cooperation of everyone. According to him, “The simple effort of wearing the attire, shows the commitment to the university and a simple gesture of saying I love ISAT U.” He also wished that as the university celebrates its Charter Anniversary, the university should strengthen unity to achieve its vision and goals.

Meanwhile, in his speech, Dr. Russ Allen B. Napud, Vice President for Administration and Finance, who represented the President, encouraged everyone to remember the 3P’s. These stand for Process, People and Partnership and the last P is Purpose. “The journey towards realizing our vision is not just a one-man journey. We need each other to achieve it. Together we cultivate a sense of unity and shared purpose transcending individual differences and interests. We are in this together as one ISAT University.” Together with the Vice President for Administration and Finance were the Vice President for External Affairs, Dr. Nemia H. Mabaquiao, Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut, Vice President for Research and Extension and the members of the Administrative Council.

Mayor Richard S. Garin of the Municipality of Miagao also graced the occasion and headed the groundbreaking ceremony of the infrastructure project for ISAT U Miagao. This project will be funded through the efforts of Cong. Janette L. Garin and Mayor Richard S. Garin. This is a three-storey building with lecture and laboratory rooms for the students. In his speech, Mayor Garin emphasized that” the journey of ISAT U has brought a lot of changes even in the lives of the students in Miagao because it has become one of the most sought after university not just of the students but also of the faculty.” He believes that once this facility is completed, it will benefit a lot of students and will also contribute to the improvement of ISAT U Miagao. Another facility that was inaugurated during the opening celebration was the Campus’ learning hub.

The celebration continued in the afternoon at ISAT U Leon Campus where a leadership and professional lecture on Smart Agriculture for a Changing Climate was conducted. In his speech, Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut, VP for Research and Extension, emphasized that “With what ISAT U has attained, the university is faced with two major challenges. First is how to maintain our reputation if not comparable to other universities. And second, what are we as a university in the future? We have to do our best on how we can contribute to our university not only for today but for the future.”

Mr. John A. Amorsolo, Senior Science Research Specialist of the Department of Agriculture was the Resource Speaker for this lecture participated by faculty, staff and students of ISAT U Leon Campus.

The celebration continued the next day at Iloilo Science and Technology University Barotac Campus. The day started with a Zumba activity which was participated not just by the faculty and staff of the campus but with the Administrative Council and representatives of the different colleges from ISAT U Iloilo City Campus. The activity was hyped by the Amazing Race wherein the group of Vice President for Research and Extension Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut was declared winner.

After the celebration in Barotac Nuevo Campus, the fun continued with the very entertaining “Si Ma’am kag Si Sir Naman, Dance with the Boss Contest” which was held at the covered gym of ISAT U Dumangas Campus. Faculty and staff burnt up the dance floor with their incredible moves that made the audience go wild. In this activity, the group of Dr. Eric de la Vega of the Office of the Instructions basked in the glory.

The highlight of the celebration was the “Gabi ng Parangal” where 119 awardees composed of Directors, Deans, faculty and staff whose excellent performance at work were acknowledged.

A talk show on the journey on the conversion of then Western Visayass College of Science and Technology University to Iloilo Science and Technology University was tackled by Dr. Luis M. Sorolla, Jr., former College President of WVCST, Dr. Raul F. Muyong, the first University President of ISAT U and Atty. Leo S. Sombiro, President of Alumni Association and member of the Board of Regents. All three became instrumental in the filing and complying with the documents required by the Commission on Higher Education. The enriching discussion was aired live via Facebook and was held at the AVR-N Building on May 18, 2024.