Archives for August 2025

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) once again proved its excellence as it clinched the championship title in the National Civil Engineering Student Quiz (NCESQ) – Regional Elimination for Region VI, held on August 23 at the DPWH Regional Office VI, Old Conference Room, Parola, Iloilo City. Representing ISAT U, Vicel Mates of BSCE 4A emerged as the champion among 15 of the region’s top-performing civil engineering students from institutions including Central Philippine University (CPU), Western Institute of Technology (WIT), Philippine University of Iloilo (PUI), and St. Anthony’s College.

This victory marks a back-to-back triumph for ISAT U, following the championship of Adrian Agundo in 2024. Alongside Mates, the university was represented by Victor Ysmael Quitayen (BSCE 4A) and Jerry Escordial (BSCE 4B), with the guidance of coaches Engr. Antonio Catubac Jr. and Engr. Aldane Ray Belarga. The team showcased exceptional knowledge, problem-solving skills, and academic grit, once again cementing ISAT U’s strong reputation in civil engineering excellence.

With this remarkable win, ISAT U will move forward to represent Region VI in the national finals of the NCESQ. The achievement not only brings pride to the university but also highlights the consistent strength of its civil engineering program. Faculty, students, and the ISAT U community extended their warm congratulations and full support as the team gears up to compete at the national stage, carrying the banner of Western Visayas.

With one week left before the opening of classes for the Academic Year 2025 – 2026, Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U), through the office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs, proudly convened its esteemed faculty across all campuses for the traditional systemwide pre-opening conference on August 7, 2025, at Grand Xing Imperial Hotel.

The pre-opening conference is a gathering that sets the tone for excellence, collaboration, and innovation in education in preparation for the opening of classes.  During the President’s time, Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr. discussed the achievements in the last academic year. He then appealed to the faculty to prepare the students even better so that they are not just ready to pass but ready to excel. He emphasized that innovation must be embedded in the mindset and practice of every faculty member because as a science and technology university, it does not only bring identity but most of all responsibility.

The conference also included the accomplishment reports of the different units presented by the VP for Administration and Finance, Dr. Russ Allen B. Napud, VP for Academic Affairs, Dr. Corazon C. Corbal, VP for External Affairs, Dr. Nemia H. Mabaquiao and VP for Research and Extension, Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut. Dr. Jasper Pastrano, President of the Federated Employees and Faculty Inc. also presented the newly elected officers of the different campuses.

The teams behind the winning entries in the different categories of the Worl University Ranking for Innovation were also awarded during the event. These winning entries were Rank #35 in Funding for Sustainability led by project leaders Dr. Naci Joh Trance and Dr. Olive Joy Abing, rank # 59, in University Brand and Reputation, headed by Dr. Heinz B. Gumaquil, and rank #73, for Entrepreneurial spirit led by  Dr. Ma. Cora Biton.

Prior to the conclusion of the dialogue, an open forum was conducted to encourage dialogue to voice perspectives and address key concerns.

In a dynamic blend of reflection and environmental advocacy, the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs spearheaded its Midyear Evaluation alongside a tree-planting initiative last July 30-31, 2025, and August 1, 2025. This dual event held at Concepcion, Iloilo, and Barangay Malangabang, aimed to assess academic progress and reinforce the institution’s commitment to its advocacy of planting 120, 000 trees in celebration of its 120^th Founding Anniversary.

Together in a shared effort to nurture both learning and the land, all the Academic Affairs Units under the leadership of Dr. Corazon C. Corbal, assessed their performance halfway through the year. One by one, the College Deans and Directors presented their targets and accomplishments during the first day session at Concepcion Plaza Hotel. Dr. Sammy Daitao of the Planning and Development Auxiliary Services (PDAS), Ms. Lucille Jaspe, Information Officer 3 and Ms. Jovette Aimee Arceta, Information Officer 2, both from the Public Information and Communications Office (PICO), served as resource persons. Dr. Daitao talked about accomplishment monitoring and the 5-year Financial Plan from 2025-2029. He also gave updates on different infrastructure projects. Meanwhile, PICO Information officers, Ms. Jaspe and Ms. Arceta, discussed the core functions of the office to bunk the misconceptions of their role in the university. They also discussed the importance of Information Dissemination, Crisis Communication as well as its Dos and Don’ts. They also campaigned for support from the different Colleges and Campuses on the ongoing programs of PICO which boost the University branding.

The next day, July 31, marked an exciting opportunity for the team to give back to nature as they came together for a meaningful tree planting activity in Barangay. Malangabang, Concepcion, Iloilo. 500 Miyapi seedlings were planted across an area of approximately 600 square meters along the Malangabang Creek. The different Academic Affairs Units in partnership with the Municipality of Concepcion’s MENRO (Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office), headed by Ms. Michelle Dequiňa, were joined by volunteers from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Barangay Officials of Barangay Malangabang and its SK Officials. This initiative is historical since it is the first tree planting activity ever conducted in the said barangay. For them it is more than just an environmental gesture — it’s a powerful symbol of collective growth, sustainability, shared responsibility and the beginning of a greener future.

After the tree planting activity, the team proceeded to Princess Apphia Inland Resort in Ajuy, Iloilo, for the team building activity where creativity took center stage. The participants were given the chance to imagine, express and experiment on their ideas. This activity helped them forge deeper connections and unlock new ways to collaborate. The three-day activity concluded with the distribution of certificates and photo opportunities.

Three Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) faculty members showcased their research at the 4th International Conference on Governance and Development (ICGD4) in Bangkok, joining over 300 delegates from across the world for the four-day academic summit.

The conference, which run from July 30 to August 3, brought together researchers, policymakers, and development practitioners under the theme “Governance for Impact: Championing Global Citizenship and Empowering Communities.” The University of the Philippines Los Baños College of Public Affairs and Thailand’s Kasetsart University co-sponsored the event.

Dr. Heinz B. Gumaquil, Dr. Olive Joy G. Abing, and Dr. Carmen Cruzata delivered research presentations representing ISAT U’s College of Arts and Sciences and College of Education. Three additional faculty members—Dr. Ana Maria Denosta, Dr. Iryn B. Delos Santos, and Hilda Darroca—participated as conference attendees.

The academic program opened with specialized pre-conference workshops on development entrepreneurship, futures thinking for community empowerment, and microcredential development for lifelong learning.

Philippine Ambassador to Thailand, H.E. Millicent Cruz-Paredes delivered the keynote address, outlining what she termed the “three pillars of leadership”: vision to move beyond the status quo, courage to take decisive action, and compassion in serving others.

She emphasized that these elements are not just ideals, they are practical necessities for anyone seeking to create meaningful change in their communities.

Kasetsart University Acting President Dr. Damrong Sripraram welcomed delegates during the opening ceremony, emphasizing the importance of cross-border academic collaboration in addressing regional governance challenges.

The conference featured panel discussions on sustainable development, governance innovations and leadership, and community-led development initiatives across continents. ISAT U’s participation reflects the university’s growing engagement in international academic networks focused on governance and development studies