Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) brought home the 2nd place award in the Academe Category of the highly competitive MorProGRes Garden tilt organized by the Province of Iloilo. The La Guerta Verde De ISAT U, the university’s sustainable agriculture initiative, was recognized for its outstanding efforts in urban gardening and environmental conservation.

The award was personally received by Dr. Rafael Cabarles, Officer-in-Charge of the ISAT U Leon Campus, along with Quiriono Alegaen and Francis Sendin, the coordinator of La Guerta Verde De ISAT U. The awarding ceremony took place on April 12 at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol in Iloilo City.

Amidst stiff competition from 252 entries across local government units, academic institutions, and business sectors, only 32 finalists qualified for the final validation round. In the Academe Category, which featured 51 entries, ISAT U’s La Guerta Verde De ISAT U emerged as the well-deserved runner-up.

The MorProGRes (More Progressive Greening) Garden competition, spearheaded by the Province of Iloilo, aims to promote sustainable urban gardening practices, and raise awareness about environmental conservation efforts. Participants were evaluated based on criteria such as garden design, plant diversity, innovative gardening techniques, and overall environmental impact.

“We are incredibly proud of the La Guerta Verde De ISAT U team for their unwavering dedication and hard work,” stated ISAT U President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr. “This achievement underscores our university’s commitment to sustainable practices and our role in cultivating a greener, more eco-friendly future for our community.”

Francis Sendin, the coordinator of La Guerta Verde De ISAT U, expressed his gratitude, stating, “This recognition is a testament to the passion and collaborative efforts of our students, faculty, and staff. We will continue to explore innovative ways to promote urban gardening and environmental stewardship within our campus and beyond.

The La Guerta Verde De ISAT U serves as a living laboratory for students and a model for urban gardening initiatives. Through hands-on learning experiences and community outreach programs, the initiative aims to inspire sustainable living practices and promote food security in the region.

PHOTO CREDIT: Francis Sendin

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) Leon Campus qualified as a finalist in the highly anticipated MoRProGRes Garden initiative organized by the Province of Iloilo. The campus’ ‘La Guerta Verde De ISAT U’ (The Green Garden of ISAT U) has captivated the attention of experts and gardening enthusiasts alike.

On March 15, 2024, the ‘La Guerta Verde De ISAT U’ received a special visit from a distinguished panel of experts tasked with validating and judging the competition entries. The panel included Dr. Mary Ann A. Baldove from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Joven Recto from the Department of Tourism, Renjo B. Debil, Leanne Lei Ramos, all representing the Philippine Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (PCCI).

The judging process involved a comprehensive evaluation of the garden’s design, plant diversity, sustainability practices, and overall aesthetics. The panel meticulously assessed each aspect, ensuring that the winning garden would serve as an exemplary model for urban gardening and environmental stewardship.

“We are thrilled to have qualified as a finalist in this prestigious competition,” expressed by Francis Sendin, faculty in charge of the La Guerta. “Our ‘La Guerta Verde De ISAT U’ is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, faculty, and staff, who have poured their hearts into creating a vibrant, sustainable, and educational green space within our campus.”

The MoRProGRes Garden initiative, launched by the Province of Iloilo, aims to promote urban gardening, food security, and environmental consciousness among the local community. By encouraging the establishment of productive and aesthetically pleasing gardens, the initiative seeks to inspire a greener and more sustainable future for the region.

As the judging process nears its conclusion, the anticipation builds for the announcement of the winning garden, expected in April. The ISAT U Leon Campus community remains hopeful that their ‘La Guerta Verde De ISAT U’ will be recognized for its exceptional design, cultivation practices, and commitment to environmental sustainability.

Regardless of the outcome, ISAT U Leon Campus’ participation in the MoRProGRes Garden initiative has already served as a source of inspiration and a valuable learning experience for students, fostering a deeper appreciation for urban gardening, food production, and environmental stewardship.

The Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU) is currently hosting the Regional Association of State Universities and Colleges 6 (RASUC VI) ‘Culture and The Arts’ Conference and Festival 2024. The four-day event, running from March 23 to 26, has brought together 11 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) from the region to showcase their artistic talents and celebrate the rich cultural diversity of the Western Visayas.

The festival, themed “Bidlisiw, Paghilom, Pagbangon, at Pagsulong” (Reflection, Healing, Rise, and Progress), aims to highlight the resilience and creativity of the region’s artistic communities in the face of challenges and adversities.

Among the participating SUCs is the Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U), which has assembled a formidable contingent of talented performers and artists eager to make their mark on the competition. ISAT U’s delegation is vying for top honors in various categories, including dance, music, theater, and visual arts, with the goal of emerging as the overall champion.

The festival has already witnessed a vibrant display of cultural performances, captivating audiences with traditional dances, musical renditions, and theatrical productions that showcase the region’s rich heritage and artistic expressions.

“We are thrilled to be part of this celebration of culture and the arts,” expressed by ISAT U President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr.. “Our students and their coaches have worked tirelessly to prepare for this event, and we are confident in their ability to showcase the talent and creativity that ISAT U is known for.”

The RASUC VI ‘Culture and The Arts’ Conference and Festival 2024 not only serves as a platform for artistic expression but also fosters unity, understanding, and appreciation among the participating SUCs. By bringing together diverse cultural influences, the festival aims to promote dialogue, collaboration, and the preservation of the region’s unique cultural identity.

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) was awarded with its 2nd Platinum Award during the National ITSO Presidents’ Summit held at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Manila on March 18, 2024.

The event, attended by 87 Innovation and Technology Support Office (ITSOs) from across the Philippines, serves as a platform to celebrate and honor institutions that have excelled in fostering innovation and driving technological progress.

Representing ISAT U at the summit were President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr. and Vice President for Research and Extension, Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut. The esteemed leaders had the opportunity to present and share the university’s innovation insights, showcasing the institution’s commitment to excellence and its role in shaping the future of science and technology.

This prestigious Platinum Award marks the second time ISAT U has received this recognition, a testament to its consistent dedication to pushing boundaries and embracing cutting-edge solutions.

“We are incredibly honored and humbled to receive the Platinum Award for the second time,” expressed President Salistre Jr. “This recognition not only validates our efforts but also serves as a catalyst for us to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation and contributing to the nation’s technological advancement.”

ISAT U’s unwavering pursuit of excellence has been reflected in its groundbreaking research initiatives, industry collaborations, and the development of innovative technologies that address real-world challenges. The university’s commitment to nurturing a culture of innovation has positioned it as a leader in the field of science and technology.

Dr. Ambut, who presented ISAT U’s innovation insights during the summit, emphasized the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in driving technological progress. “Innovation thrives in an environment where ideas are freely exchanged and diverse perspectives are embraced,” he stated. “We are grateful for the opportunity to share our insights and learn from the experiences of other ITSOs, as we collectively strive to shape a better future through innovation.”

The Platinum Award not only recognizes ISAT U’s past achievements but also serves as a testament to its ongoing dedication to excellence. As the university continues to push boundaries and explore new frontiers of knowledge, it remains committed to fostering an environment that nurtures innovation, empowers its students and researchers, and contributes to the betterment of society.

ISAT U President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr. led a delegation on a visit to Kasetsart University’s Department of Textile Science, Faculty of Agro-Industry in Thailand from March 12 – 16, 2024.

The primary objective of this visit was to explore potential collaborations and knowledge-sharing opportunities to enhance ISAT U’s upcoming Textile Technology Academic Program. This initiative is part of a broader project funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in the Philippines, which aims to strengthen the textile industry and promote sustainable practices in the region.

During the visit, President Salistre Jr. and the ISAT U delegation had the opportunity to engage with leading experts and researchers from Kasetsart University’s Textile Science Department. They discussed potential areas of cooperation, including faculty and student exchanges, joint research projects, and curriculum development.

“This partnership with Kasetsart University represents a significant step forward in our commitment to providing world-class education and fostering innovation in the textile industry,” stated President Salistre Jr. “By leveraging the expertise and resources of a renowned institution like Kasetsart, we can ensure that our Textile Technology Program is aligned with global standards and equips our students with the skills and knowledge to drive sustainable practices in the industry.”

The DOST project, which facilitated this visit, also included participants from DOST Provincial Field Officers, partner State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) such as Capiz State University and Aklan State University, as well as community partners like weavers from Miag-ao, Iloilo, and suppliers of raw materials for the Regional Yarn Production and Innovation Center (RYPIC) from Passi City and Lemery, Iloilo.

Through this collaborative effort, ISAT U aims to establish a robust Textile Technology Academic Program that not only meets international standards but also addresses the specific needs and challenges of the local textile industry, promoting sustainable practices and fostering economic growth in the region.

In a move to gain insights and learn from best practices, Capiz State University conducted a benchmarking activity at ISAT University’s Public Information and Communications Office (PICO) and University Library on March 8, 2024. The activity aimed to observe and understand the innovations, initiatives, and operations of these two key offices.

The benchmarking program took place at the ISAT University Boardroom, where the guests were personally welcomed by ISAT U President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre. Dr. Heinz B. Gumaquil, PICO Director, and Rovilyn Debalucos Somcio, University Librarian, were present to provide a comprehensive overview of their respective best practices and share their experiences.

During the first part of the program, Dr. Gumaquil and Ms. Somcio delivered presentations highlighting the innovative strategies, initiatives, and operations that have contributed to the success of their offices. They shared insights into their approaches, challenges faced, and the solutions implemented to overcome them.

Following the presentations, the second part of the benchmarking activity involved a tour of the PICO and University Library facilities. This provided the guests with a firsthand experience of the physical environments and an opportunity to observe the practical implementation of the best practices discussed earlier.

The benchmarking activity allowed Capiz State University representatives to gain valuable knowledge and inspiration from ISAT University’s successful models. By observing and learning from these exemplary operations, Capiz State University aims to implement similar strategies and initiatives to enhance their own services and operations.

Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, ISAT U President, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to share their institution’s best practices and commended Capiz State University’s commitment to continuous improvement. “We are honored to host this benchmarking activity and contribute to the growth and development of our fellow educational institutions,” he stated.

Christian George Francisco Acevedo, PIO Director and Head Librarian led the delegation of information officers and librarians from the said CAPSU.

The benchmarking activity fostered a spirit of collaboration and knowledge-sharing among the participating universities, ultimately benefiting the broader academic community and contributing to the advancement of higher education in the region.