ISAT U Archi Students Triumph in A+D Documentary Film Festival

The Architecture students of Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) have brought pride to the institution after clinching First Place in the prestigious A+D Architectural Documentary Film Festival, outshining 32 competing entries from across the country.

Their winning documentary, “Candelaria: The Living Flame of Heritage”, directed by John Lloyd Entredicho, masterfully captures the historical and architectural significance of the Jaro Cathedral and Jaro Belfry. Through compelling visuals and storytelling, the film breathes life into Iloilo’s cultural heritage, emphasizing the enduring value of architectural preservation.

The announcement of the Top 5 winners was held at the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) National Headquarters in Diliman, Quezon City, marking a proud moment for ISAT-U’s budding architects.

The documentary was a collaborative effort by a dynamic group of students and mentors:

  • Director: John Lloyd Entredicho
  • Producers: Rhaine Beryl Matulac, Leanne Dela Cruz
  • Researchers: Ma. Janelle Rence Comenta, Niko Dominic Uy
  • Writers: Chrischel Eudela, Adrian Amon
  • Executive Producer: Ar. Ma. Regina P. Falconite
  • Cinematographers: Therese Angeli Tan, Kristine Theresa Alvarez, Steven

                                   Noel Nobleza

  • Sound Designer: Carl Jared Porras
  • Editors: Steven Noel Nobleza, Harry Catuiran
  • Graphic Designers: Kristel Galvez, Bryan Espalago, Adrianne Marie Bautista

The success of “Candelaria: The Living Flame of Heritage” not only highlights the artistry and dedication of ISAT-U’s Architecture students but also underscores the importance of preserving local heritage through modern storytelling. Their achievement serves as an inspiration to young creatives and future architects, proving that passion and teamwork can illuminate history in powerful ways.

ISAT U Celebrates New Civil Engineers; Maintains Strong Board Exam Performance

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) honored its new Registered Civil Engineers during a Testimonial Ceremony on March 9 at the ISAT U HRT Center, recognizing graduates who successfully passed the Civil Engineering Licensure Examinations (CELE) conducted in November 2024, April 2025, and November 2025.

On behalf of University President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Corazon C. Corbal congratulated the new engineers and highlighted three guiding principles for them as they begin their professional journey: to be engineers of excellence, to cultivate integrity in their practice, and to remain selfless in serving society and a change-maker. Dr. Corbal emphasized that engineering is not only a technical profession but also a public trust that requires responsibility, ethical leadership, and dedication to improving communities. She commended the passers for their determination and encouraged them to uphold the values and standards instilled by the university.

Meanwhile, College of Engineering and Architecture Dean Evan G. Daza expressed his pride in the new civil engineers, describing them as a testament to the strength and dedication of the college’s academic community. In his message, Dr. Daza congratulated the passers and reminded them that their achievements represent the collective efforts of students, faculty members, and mentors who worked tirelessly to guide them through the rigorous preparation for the licensure examinations. He noted that the graduates carry not only their personal dreams but also the pride and reputation of the university as they step into the engineering profession.

Adding inspiration to the ceremony were testimonies from newly licensed engineers, Engr. Adrian Agundo, Engr. Christopher Ayco, and Engr. Rey Ian Lago, who shared their experiences, sacrifices, and lessons learned while preparing for the board examinations. Their stories highlighted perseverance, discipline, and faith throughout the demanding review process.

The testimonial ceremony underscored the academic strength of the university’s College of Engineering and Architecture and its Civil Engineering Department, as ISAT U successfully surpassed the national passing percentage in three consecutive licensure examinations. The achievement reflects the department’s dedication to delivering quality engineering education and its continuing mission to develop graduates who are equipped to contribute to infrastructure development and national progress.

ISAT U Earns Level II Institutional Accreditation

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) proudly reached a new milestone in its pursuit of academic excellence as it received the Certificate of Institutional Accreditation Level II (Accredited) from the National Network of Quality Assurance Agencies Inc. (NNQAA), upon the recommendation of the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP).

The certificate was formally received by Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr., representing the university during the 2nd NNQAA Quality Assurance Summit and Conferment Ceremonyheld at The Heritage Hotel Manila. The event celebrated institutions that have demonstrated adherence to established accreditation standards, recognizing their commitment to quality education and governance.

This recognition affirms ISAT U’s dedication to excellence across multiple dimensions — governance, teaching and learning, research, extension services, and quality assurance systems. The Level II accreditation status reflects the university’s continuous efforts to strengthen its academic programs and institutional processes, ensuring that students and stakeholders benefit from globally competitive standards.

The conferment marks a significant achievement not only for ISAT U but also for the academic community in Western Visayas, highlighting the university’s role as a leader in innovation, research, and community development.

ISAT U Aligns Operations with Presidential Directive Effective March 9

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) announced Saturday, Marcjh 7, 2026. The new work and class schedules in line with Memorandum Circular No. 114 issued by the Office of the President of the Republic of the Philippines.

Under the directive, office personnel will report on-site from Monday to Thursday, while Fridays will be strictly Work From Home (WFH). Staff may also opt for a compressed work arrangement with prior approval. Janitorial and maintenance personnel will follow a compressed schedule from Monday to Thursday, while security personnel will continue under their regular duty roster.

For students, classes from Monday to Thursday will proceed as usual on campus. However, Friday and Saturday classes will shift fully online, either synchronously or asynchronously. Faculty members are likewise required to observe WFH on these days.

The university emphasized that the adjustments aim to comply with national policy while ensuring smooth operations and continued learning for the ISAT U community.

ISAT U Shares Communication Best Practices with WVSU In Benchmarking Visit

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) hosted a benchmarking visit from West Visayas State University (WVSU) on February 13, to share best practices and strategies in media relations management, institutional content production, and communications operations.

The visiting WVSU delegation, led by Dr. Hazel P. Villa, PAMCO Director, included Ms. Katrina Isabel B. Gadong, Information Officer III; Ms. Jessa Angeli C. Temelo, Information Officer II; Mr. Dan Olsen T. Callosa, Information Officer I; Ms. Wina May B. Dela Cruz, Office Secretary; and Mr. Claude L. Calimlim, Office Staff.

The benchmarking activity was structured around four key components designed to maximize knowledge transfer and institutional learning. The day began with a courtesy call, where the WVSU delegation was received by ISAT University’s Vice President for Administration and Finance, Dr. Russ Allen Napud, representing the Office of the University President, along with personnel from the Public Information and Communications Office (PICO).

Following the courtesy call, the WVSU team participated in a guided tour of ISAT University’s facilities, providing context for understanding the institution’s scale, and communications infrastructure and capabilities.

The centerpiece of the visit was a working meeting and open forum featuring ISAT University’s communication team, who presented their institutional practices and methodologies. Dr. Heinz B. Gumaquil, PICO Director, spearheaded the presentation and exchange, along with Information Officer III Lucille Jaspe, Information Officer II Jovette Aimee B. Arceta, and Information Officers I Rommel Griffith Habaradas and Jepthah Sustituido.

The discussions focused on three critical operational areas: media relations and management strategies, production of institutional content and marketing materials, and the policies and guidelines governing PICO’s functions, systems, and processes. ISAT University shared its approaches and operational frameworks that have contributed to its institutional communications success.

The benchmarking visit represents a productive day of inter-institutional collaboration, enabling WVSU’s communications team to gain insights into ISAT University’s methodologies and operational systems.

ISAT U – PICO was recently hailed as the Best Performing Information Office during the Western Visayas Information Officer’s Year – end Summit held last December 2025.

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.