CIT holds faculty monitoring, capability-building activity

To ensure that academic and operational goals are aligned with institutional priorities, the College of Industrial Technology (CIT) conducted its Monitoring, Assessment, and Capability-Building Activity on January 19 to 21, 2026, at Manggadiwa Resort and Spa Hotel.

The three-day activity focused on target setting and alignment, action planning, and performance assessment per program. Faculty members actively participated in evaluating program accomplishments, identifying challenges, and crafting actionable plans to further strengthen instruction, research, and extension initiatives.

The activity also highlighted updates and insights from the Global Forum on Digital Transformation in TVET and the TVET Leadership Workshop, emphasizing innovation, digital readiness, and leadership in technical-vocational education.

Moreover, discussions on research publication trends and updates were also integrated, encouraging faculty members to enhance research productivity and publication engagement.

The activity concluded with a team-building session, fostering collaboration, camaraderie, and renewed commitment among faculty members.

This initiative reaffirms the college’s dedication to continuous improvement, faculty capability building, and the delivery of future-ready education.

UNIVERSITY EVALUATES AY 2025 ACCOMPLISHMENTS

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) proudly presented its FY 2025 Year-End Performance Presentation and Evaluation, highlighting the institution’s significant accomplishments, assessing outcomes, and charting strengthened directions for the year ahead.

The event underscored ISAT U’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement, as the university continues to position itself as a leading science and technology institution in the region.

The Year-End Performance Evaluation highlighted academic excellence with its expansion of degree programs and strengthened accreditation status across multiple colleges; research and innovation increased research outputs, patents, and collaborative projects with local industries and international partners; student development enhanced scholarship opportunities, leadership training, and global exposure through exchange programs; community engagementsustained extension services and partnerships with local government units and organizations to address societal needs; infrastructure and digital transformationupgraded facilities, laboratories, and digital platforms to support modern learning and research.

The evaluation emphasized measurable progress in student performance, faculty development, and institutional efficiency. ISAT U reaffirmed its dedication to aligning outcomes with national education goals and global standards.

Looking ahead, ISAT U outlined strategic priorities such as expanding international collaborations and research networks, strengthening industry linkages to enhance employability and innovation, advancing sustainability initiatives across campus operations and fostering inclusive education and digital transformation.

Language and Culture Exchange with ISAT University and Korean University Students

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U), in collaboration with Cru and the Korean Campus Crusade for Christ (KCCC), successfully conducted a two-day Language and Culture Exchange Program on January 15–16, 2026 at the university library (AVR 1). The activity brought together university students from Korea and ISAT U for a meaningful exchange of language, culture, and shared experiences.

On January 15, ISAT U students warmly welcomed the visiting Korean students and introduced them to Filipino culture and hospitality. The program featured student-led presentations that highlighted the richness and diversity of the Philippines, including:

•              Philippine Tourist Attractions, presented by Airylle Buenasalbas (BSTM 4B), Kristine Nicole Moreño (BSTM 2B), and Alexine Van Tamba (BSTM 3A);

•              Festivals in the Philippines, presented by Jedah Bless Macalde (BSCE 3A) and Charles Joser Gargaritano (BSCE 3A);

•              Philippine Traditions, presented by Klare Adilou Montecello (BEED 3A); and

•              Filipino Cuisines, presented by Marielle Bene (BSCS 4B)

These presentations allowed the visitors to gain a deeper appreciation of Filipino customs, values, and everyday life. Korean student representatives, Moon Ha-Young and Yoon Jihye also shared a presentation about Korean culture and traditions.

The exchange continued on January 16 with language-focused sessions designed to introduce the Korean students to local languages. A Filipino language lecture was conducted by Reyven Garcia (BSED Filipino 3A), followed by an introduction to Hiligaynon, presented by Carla Dominique Jocson (BAEL 3A). Lee Changhyun and Yoon Jihye, Korean student representatives, also gave a presentation on basic Korean language. These sessions encouraged cultural immersion and fostered mutual understanding through language learning.

In photo (from left to right): Adviser Ms. Shella Suarez, Korean students (top and bottom rows), and Ms. Jieza Napone, OIC-Director, National and International Affairs

The two-day program was made possible through the efforts of the KCCC and Cru–ISAT U Chapter, under the guidance of its adviser, Ms. Shella Suarez, in collaboration with the National and International Affairs Office, led by the OIC-Director, Ms. Jieza Napone. The activity strengthened international friendships, promoted cultural awareness, and reinforced ISAT U’s commitment to global engagement and intercultural learning.

By: Lyza Belle Lagura

ISAT U Inks Partnership with Got Game Clothing for Student Development and Community Empowerment

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) has officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Got Game Clothing, represented by Mr. Gerald Ganzon, to strengthen collaboration in key areas of student development.

The signing ceremony was held today, January 13, 2026, at the University Board Room, with ISAT U President and other key officials present to witness the milestone agreement.

Under the MOU, the partnership will focus on Student Internship Program (SIP) in providing ISAT U students with hands-on industry experience through structured internships; Extension Activities: supporting community-based initiatives that empower local sectors and promote sustainable development and Scholarship Opportunities: offering financial assistance to deserving students to help them pursue higher education.

University officials emphasized that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to support students, empower communities, and create meaningful learning experiences beyond the classroom.

Mr. Ganzon expressed optimism about the partnership, highlighting Got Game Clothing’s dedication to nurturing young talent and contributing to community growth.

This new alliance marks another step forward in ISAT U’s mission to build strong industry linkages and provide students with opportunities that prepare them for future careers while fostering social responsibility.

ISAT U Welcomes Second Semester with System-Wide Faculty Conference

The second semester of Academic Year 2025–2026 officially opened with a system-wide faculty conference organized by the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs. The event was held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at the Jade Ballroom of the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel and was attended by faculty members from all five campuses of the University.

Dr. Corazon C. Corbal, Vice President for Academic Affairs, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the faculty for their unwavering support and commitment during the previous semester. She emphasized that their dedication and professionalism are deeply valued, noting that “the faculty are the heart of the academic enterprise of the university.”

University President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr. proudly presented the awards and recognitions received by ISAT U in 2025. He highlighted how the University overcame challenges and successfully implemented policies and programs that strengthened academic excellence, faculty development, and student support. Dr. Salistre also announced the upcoming offering of new academic programs: Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (Iloilo City Campus–CEA); Bachelor of Science in Agroforestry (Leon Campus); Bachelor of Science in Meteorology (Iloilo City Campus).

These programs have already undergone evaluation by RQAT and NQAT and are completing compliance requirements for submission to CHED. They will be included in admissions for AY 2026–2027. In addition, the Board of Regents has approved the Master of Science in Hospitality Management (Iloilo City Campus–CIT) and the Bachelor of Textile Technology (Miagao Campus), with documents now being prepared for CHED evaluation.

The conference also marked the oath-taking of newly appointed officials: Dr. Catherine A. Yap, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Dr. Tracy N. Tacuban, Dean of the College of Computing and Informatics; Mr. Eric Jan G. Puga, Director of Financial Management Services, and Dr. Alma Mae S. Torremoro, Director of the Gender and Development Center

A highlight of the event was the keynote address by CHED Regional Office VI Director, Dr. Raul F. Muyong, who provided updates on CHED policies. He announced the Memorandum of Agreement between CHED and the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), emphasizing strict compliance: only programs with a complete Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) will be allowed to have graduates take board examinations. He also reminded institutions that requirements for educational trips must be submitted at least one week before the activity. On a lighter note, Dr. Muyong commended ISAT U for its accomplishments, stressing that these achievements reflect the collective effort of faculty, staff, and administrators under the leadership of the University President.

Updates were likewise presented by Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Russ Allen B. Napud, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Corazon C. Corbal, Vice President for Research and Extension Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut, and Vice President for External Affairs Dr. Nemia H. Mabaquiao. Faculty Regent Dr. Jasper L. Pastrano also shared developments concerning the Faculty Association.

PICO Named Best Performing Information Office for 2025

The Public Information and Communications Office (PICO) of the Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) has been conferred the Best Performing Information Office for 2025 during the Western Visayas Regional Information Officers Summit held at Roy’s Hotel and Convention Center, Bacolod City, on December 18, 2025

The award, presented by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), recognizes PICO’s outstanding performance in institutional communication, public information dissemination, and creative initiatives that have strengthened ISAT U’s visibility and engagement across the region.

PICO Director Dr. Heinz B. Gumaquil received the award on behalf of the office. In his acceptance remarks, Dr. Gumaquil expressed gratitude to the PIA and underscored the collective effort behind the achievement.

“This recognition is a win for ISAT U and a validation of the creativity and dedication of the entire PICO family,” Dr. Gumaquil stated.

The accolade affirms ISAT U’s commitment to excellence in public service communication and highlights the university’s role as a leading institution in Western Visayas.

ISAT U Receives National CapDev Accelerator Award from DILG

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) was honored with the CapDev Accelerator “KINANG” Award during the “Gabi ng Pasasalamat” held at the Manila Hotel on December 10, 2025.

The award, presented by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Local Government Academy (LGA), recognizes development partners who have significantly contributed to DILG’s organizational goals following a nationwide selection process.

The CapDev Accelerator “KINANG” Award underscores ISAT U’s significant role in advancing local governance excellence in Western Visayas and its alignment with national development goals.

The recognition comes as ISAT U continues to expand its engagement with local government partners, with plans to develop more research and extension initiatives and capacity-building programs that will further strengthen governance practices across the region.

ISAT U currently serves as the Lead Convenor of the Western Visayas Local Governance Resource Consortium (WVLGRC). Under this role, the university spearheaded pioneering research initiatives for DILG’s Decentralization, Local Governance and Reform Advocacy Program, producing two comprehensive research studies covering the entire Western Visayas region.

Dr. Heinz B. Gumaquil, Director of the Public Information and Communications Office, received the award on behalf of the university. He was accompanied by LGOO VI Medel Espinosa of DILG Region VI.

University Completes BS EN ISO 9001:2015 Surveillance Audit

Iloilo Science and Technology University proudly announces its successful completion of the BS EN ISO 9001:2015 Surveillance Audit, reaffirming its commitment to quality management and institutional excellence.

The closing meeting, held earlier today, concluded with a strong recommendation for the continued certification of the University. This milestone underscores ISAT U’s unwavering dedication to upholding international standards in quality assurance, operational efficiency, and service delivery across all its units and offices.

Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr., ISAT U President extends his heartfelt appreciation to the audit team for their professionalism and to the faculty, staff, and stakeholders for their steadfast cooperation throughout the audit process. “This achievement is a testament to the collective effort and discipline of the entire ISAT U community,”

The ISO 9001:2015 standard is a globally recognized benchmark for quality management systems, emphasizing customer satisfaction, continuous improvement, and systematic process control. ISAT U’s successful audit outcome reflects its proactive approach to institutional development and its vision of delivering world-class education and services.

As the University continues to grow and innovate, this renewed certification serves as both a validation of past efforts and a motivation to pursue even greater heights in academic and administrative excellence.

University Launches SMARTECH Center to boost Innovation in WV

In a move to advance robotics and automation in the region, Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) officially launched the Smart Manufacturing, Automation, and Robotics Technology (SMARTECH) Center, solidifying a strategic partnership with key industry and government stakeholders.

The launch event, held at ISAT U on October 28, 2025, featured the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between ISAT U and its collaborators – the Department of Science and Technology Regional Office VI (DOST VI), Developers Connect Iloilo, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Iloilo, and the Mechatronics and Robotics Society of the Philippines Western Visayas Chapter.

In his speech, Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr., ISAT U President, expressed his gratitude for this groundbreaking partnership with DOST, DEVCOM Iloilo, PCCI, and the Mechatronics and Robotics Society of the Philippines. Accordiing to him, beyond education, this center aims to transform industries, promote sustainable development, and contribute to the progress of our communities.

Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut, Vice President for Research and Extension gave an overview of the SMARTECH. He explained that the SMARTECH Center is envisioned as a regional hub for innovation, research, and capacity building in robotics and automation. As part of its commitment, ISAT U will take on four pivotal roles such as delivering of technical training, research support, and capacity building programs in robotics, automation, and related disciplines; opening of the SMARTECH Center as a collaborative space for experimentation, prototyping and research; facilitating knowledge exchange, extension services, and academic-industry linkages to bolster regional robotics development; and integrating robotics and mechatronics into its academic and research programs to nurture future innovators.

The event was graced by DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Dr. Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST VI Regional Director Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga, ISAT U President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr., and Vice President for Research and Extension Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut.

With the establishment of the SMARTECH Center, ISAT U aims to be a driving force in cultivating a robust robotics ecosystem in Western Visayas, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government to meet the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

University welcomes pre-service teachers from Indonesia

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) proudly welcomed pre-service teachers from two of its partner institutions in Indonesia—Universitas Muria Kudus (UMK) and Universitas Lambung Mangkurat (ULM)during the SEA-Teachers Batch 11 Welcome Program held at the AVR N Building on October 16, 2025. Earlier that day, they also made a courtesy visit to the Office of the President.

The event marked the official start of the student exchange under the Southeast Asian Teacher Project (SEA-Teachers), a regional initiative that promotes cross-border teaching experiences and cultural immersion among ASEAN member universities. The program aims to enhance the teaching competencies of future educators while fostering mutual understanding and collaboration across Southeast Asia.

Key officials from ISAT U’s administration, faculty, and student body extended a warm reception to the visiting delegates, emphasizing the university’s unwavering commitment to internationalization, academic excellence, and global engagement.

This program is more than just an exchange of teaching practices—it’s a celebration of diversity, unity, and shared aspirations among ASEAN nations.

The SEA-Teachers program continues to serve as a vital platform for ISAT U to strengthen its international linkages and provide transformative learning experiences for both local and international participants.