Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr., encouraged the entire Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) community to sustain the institution’s momentum of growth while remaining firmly committed to prudent fiscal management during the systemwide faculty conference held on August 3, 2026.

The conference, convened at the Multi-Purpose Educational Center, gathered faculty and selected non-teaching personnel from ISAT U’s five campuses. University leaders used the first-semester assembly to set priorities for the coming academic year and to recognize new and advancing members of the university community.

The opening segment of the program featured the oath-taking of newly hired and newly promoted faculty and non-teaching staff. 66 faculty members systemwide will start their new milestone after being hired and promoted while 27 non-teaching personnel from the Iloilo City Campus were newly hired and promoted.

After the oath-taking ceremony, the four vice presidents then delivered comprehensive reports and reminders to faculty.

Dr. Russ Allen B. Napud, Vice President for Administration and Finance, reported significant cost savings following the implementation of a four-day work week and other austerity measures, underscoring the administration’s dual focus on fiscal responsibility and institutional resilience.

Dr. Junnifer B. Badoles, Vice President for External Affairs,  provided updates on the university’s external engagements, including ongoing activities and international scholarship opportunities for faculty and students.

Dr. Corbal addressed faculty roles beyond instruction, emphasizing their responsibilities in character formation and student mentorship. She also reminded faculty of upcoming administrative deadlines, including submission of documents for reclassification evaluation, grade sheets, and Individual Performance Commitment and Review (IPCR) forms.

Vice President for Research and Extension, Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut, showcased ISAT U’s expanding externally funded research portfolio. He also announced that the HABOL Iloilo project has advanced as a regional qualifier for the Gawad Lingkod ng Bayan Award, highlighting the university’s growing impact on community service and development.

Dr. Jaspe Pastrano, President of the Faculty and Employees Federation Inc., also gave his report and updates.

As is tradition, the conference concluded with a spirited open forum, allowing faculty and staff to engage directly with university leaders, raise concerns, and shape the shared vision for ISAT U’s future.

​The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) joined government agencies and multi-sectoral stakeholders in the Local Government Code Review and Amendment Program (LGC RevAmP), a consultative gathering organized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region VI through DILG Iloilo City.

​The initiative forms part of a nationwide thrust to review, update, and propose policy amendments to Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991. The local session focused specifically on addressing the evolving administrative and developmental needs of Iloilo City as a Highly Urbanized City (HUC).

During the workshop, participants examined key challenges in local governance and formulated proposed amendments across four strategic pillars. ISAT U was designated under Pillar 3 (Service Delivery), bringing an academic and youth-oriented perspective to public service performance and community needs. Representing the university were Public Information and Communications Office (PICO) Director Dr. Heinz B. Gumaquil and Student Tribunal Head Vincent Rhiyn S. Amalay.

​”Academia plays a vital role in grounding public policy in real-world community impacts. Participating in Pillar 3 ensures that local service delivery reforms address both modern institutional challenges and actual community concerns,” the university delegates noted during the session.

​The recommendations gathered during the Iloilo City workshops will be consolidated with outputs from other regions to shape proposed legislative amendments in Congress.

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) formally launched its College of Global Business and Enterprise (CGBE) on July 7, 2026, at the L-Building Grounds, marking a significant expansion of the University’s offerings in business education, entrepreneurship, and enterprise development.

The ceremony opened with a Thanksgiving Mass, followed by welcome remarks that set the tone for the College’s vision and impact. A presentation on the CGBE journey traced the College’s development from concept to launch, highlighting stakeholder consultations, program design anchored on industry needs, and ISAT U’s commitment to innovation and global readiness.

In a keynote message culminating in the official declaration of launch, University President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre,Jr., underscored CGBE’s role in cultivating entrepreneurial mindsets, strengthening partnerships with industry, and preparing graduates for globally competitive careers. The unveiling of the CGBE marker symbolized the College’s mandate to drive inclusive growth through education, research, and enterprise incubation.

Messages of support from Dr. Raul F. Muyong, Regional Director VI of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) affirmed CGBE’s alignment with national priorities in skills development, digital transformation, and the internationalization of higher education. Selected CGBE students delivered presentations that showcased emerging projects and research, reflecting the College’s emphasis on practical learning, innovation, and community impact. In her message, Dr. Corazon C. Corbal, Vice President for Academic Affairs, expressed that establishing the College of Global Business and Enterprise (CGBE) is a major milestone for the institution. For her, this is a massive step toward preparing the students for an increasingly, interconnected economy. Meanwhile, Dr. Jeanneth F. Darroca, the OIC Dean for CGBE expressed her gratitude to the administration for their vision and support, noting that this milestone will open up incredible global  opportunities for the student body.

The launch of CGBE opens a new chapter for ISAT U as it expands pathways in business leadership, startup creation, and enterprise solutions—anchored on strong academic foundations, industry collaboration, and a global perspective.

The Panay and Guimaras Cultural Mapping Inventories was formally launched on June 19,2026, at the UP Visayas Auditorium, bringing together representatives from partner State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), local government units (LGUs), and cultural heritage stakeholders in a landmark event for heritage preservation.

The program featured the presentation of 100 Volumes of Cultural Inventories, the unveiling of the UPV cultural heritage website, and the turnover of cultural inventories to partnerLGUs. These milestones mark another significant step in documenting, safeguarding, and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Panay and Guimaras.

As one of the partner institutions, Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) showcased its products during the event, reflecting the University’s creativity, innovation, and commitment to community-based development and cultural advancement. ISAT U’s participation underscores its role in supporting cultural preservation, research, and innovation while strengthening partnerships for heritage development. This initiative is a testament to the collective effort of academic institutions, local governments, and communities in ensuring that cultural identity is preserved and celebrated. By documenting and sharing our heritage, we empower future generations to value and sustain the traditions that define us.

The Panay and Guimaras Cultural Mapping Inventories serve as a vital resource for researchers, educators, policymakers, and communities, reinforcing the importance of collaboration and innovation in heritage conservation.

ISAT U proudly joins this meaningful initiative, reaffirming its dedication to advancing cultural preservation and contributing to the sustainable development of Western Visayas.

In response to rising energy costs and increasing climate-related challenges, a groundbreaking initiative is set to empower small-scale livelihood community enterprises across Iloilo. The project, titled “Strengthening Climate Resilience of Small-scale Livelihood Community Enterprises through Energy-efficient Solar-powered Dehydrator Machine for Fish and Crop Processing,” is part of the GALING-PCAARRD KONTRA KRISIS program.

As part of project development, site visits and stakeholder dialogues were conducted in the Local Government Units (LGUs) of Oton, Miagao, Janiuay, Tubungan, Leon,Concepcion, Santa Barbara, and Carles. These engagements provided valuable insights into the needs, challenges, and opportunities of beneficiary communities, particularly among marginalized sectors such as fisherfolk, farmers, women’s groups, Indigenous Peoples, and youth organizations.

Many of these groups rely on traditional open-air drying methods, which are highly vulnerable to weather disruptions, contamination, and post-harvest losses. To address these challenges, the project introduces eight industrial-grade ISAT U Hybrid SolarDehydrator units equipped with solar-assisted energy systems. These units will enable controlled drying processes for key commodities such as fish, mangoes, onions, root crops, and other locally available agricultural products—improving efficiency, product quality, and shelf life.

The project is implemented through collaboration among Iloilo Science and TechnologyUniversity (ISAT U), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), LGUs, and partnercommunities. Together, they aim to strengthen climate resilience, technical capability, and sustainable livelihood opportunities for agri-fishery MSMEs in the province.

“This initiative is a vital step toward building climate-resilient communities while ensuring sustainable livelihoods for our farmers and fisherfolk,” said Dr. Renerio S. Mucas, Project Leader. He is joined by Mr. Hilario S. Taberna, Jr., Director of the Research Services Division, and Ms. Vanessa Mae D. Supapo, who form part of the dedicated project team.

By harnessing renewable energy and innovative technology, the project underscores the importance of science-driven solutions in addressing climate challenges and promoting inclusive growth for Iloilo’s rural communities.

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) proudly congratulates the Habol IloiloTeam, a collaborative initiative of DOST Region VI and ISAT U, for qualifying in the Civil Service Commission Regional Office VI 2026 Gawad Lingkod Bayani (GLB) under the prestigious Gawad Presidential Lingkod Bayan category.

The Habol Iloilo Team is at the forefront of promoting Iloilo’s traditional handloomweaving heritage—known locally as Hablon or Habol Ilonggo. Their work goes beyond preserving a craft; it’s about revitalizing a cultural identity and creating sustainable opportunities for communities.

The Habol Iloilo Team’s efforts ensure that weaving is not seen as a fading tradition but as a living, evolving industry. Their advocacy bridges the past and present—celebrating Ilonggo artistry while opening doors for innovation, entrepreneurship, and global recognition.

The Gawad Lingkod Bayani honors outstanding public servants who embody “Puso, Dangal, at Galing para sa Bayan”—celebrating individuals and groups whose dedication, integrity, and excellence uplift government service and positively impact communities.

The recognition of the Habol Iloilo Team reflects their unwavering commitment to innovation, service, and collaboration in advancing science, technology, and community development. Their efforts exemplify the values of public service excellence and highlight the transformative role of partnerships in addressing societal needs.

The ISAT U leadership expressed pride, emphasizing that this achievement is not only a milestone for the team but also a testament to the university’s mission of fostering innovation and service for the greater good.

As the Habol Iloilo Team continues its journey, ISAT U reaffirms its support and celebrates this recognition as a beacon of inspiration for students, faculty, and the wider community.

In line with its commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement, Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) successfully conducted a Tree PlantingActivity on June 11, 2026, at Barangay Aripdip, San Rafael, Iloilo.

The initiative was spearheaded by the College of Computing and Informatics (CCI) in collaboration with the Extension Services Division and the Environment and ClimateChange Office (ECCO). Faculty members, students, and community residents joined hands to plant seedlings across designated areas, reinforcing the importance of collective action in addressing climate change and environmental degradation.

The tree planting drive aimed to promote environmental awareness among students and residents, support climate change mitigation efforts through reforestation, contribute to the rehabilitation of the community’s natural environment and strengthen the partnership between ISAT U and Barangay Aripdip.

This activity is more than just planting trees—it is about planting hope for a greener, healthier future. The university remains steadfast in its mission to integrate sustainability into education, research, and community service. ISAT U also emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader environmental program that will continue to expand in the coming years. Future activities will focus on sustainability, climate resilience, and empowering communities to take active roles in protecting the environment.

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) proudly celebrates the recognition of two of its students as part of Iloilo’s most accomplished youth leaders in The Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards (TOSIA) 2026.

Milagros Therese Tutanes, a fifth-year BS Architecture student, and Cheyenne Margarette Jacomille, a junior high school student from the ISAT U Laboratory School, were named among the 24 awardees who exemplify excellence beyond the classroom and embody civic engagement and social responsibility.

Tutanes was recognized for her groundbreaking initiative, Project Sikulo, which bridges architectural research with youth-led community advocacy. The project transforms Iloilo City’s landfill and shell waste into sustainable building resources through upcycling policies and local processing facilities. By promoting a circular economy, Project Sikulo empowers communities to co-create ecological solutions and cultivate long-term environmental stewardship.

Jacomille earned distinction for her project, ABARKADA: Bayanihan Para sa Balik-Eskwela, which supports SPED learners returning to school. Through inclusive and joyful activities such as dance, magic, and origami, alongside the distribution of essential school supplies, the initiative fosters empathy, inclusion, and shared responsibility while empowering learners to express themselves with confidence and joy.

The awardees, composed of 12 graduating college students and 12 junior high schoolstudents, were recognized by JCI Regatta and its partners during the awarding ceremony, “Salute to Excellence,” held on May 30, 2026, at Robinsons Place Pavia. The event was organized in partnership with the Department of Education’s Schools Divisions of Iloilo Province, Iloilo City, and Passi City.

ISAT U takes immense pride in Tutanes and Jacomille for their passion, creativity, and commitment to creating positive change. Their achievements highlight the university’s mission to nurture leaders who drive innovation, inclusion, and sustainable development in their communities.

The Professional Development Commission (PDC) successfully conducted the Academy on Wheels Program at the National University of Singapore (NUS) on May 26-31, 2026, with delegates from Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) taking part in the international learning experience.

Supported by NUS, the program featured a lecture and educational tour that highlighted sustainability, integrated design, and future-ready architectural practices. The initiative aimed to expose participants to cutting-edge approaches in architecture and design, emphasizing the importance of resilience and sustainability in shaping modern communities.

During the program, ISAT U delegates gained valuable insights into how architecture can play a transformative role in building resilient societies. The discussions and site visits underscored the need for innovative design solutions that address environmental challenges while promoting sustainable urban development.

Representing ISAT U were students from BS Architecture 4A and 4B and accompanied by Ar. Ma. Regina Falconite, Ar. Myren C. Dorado and Ar. John Zeus Rosalin.

The collaboration between PDC, NUS, and ISAT U reflects a shared commitment to advancing professional growth and fostering global perspectives in education. By engaging in programs like Academy on Wheels, participants are better equipped to contribute to the future of architecture and community development in the Philippines and beyond.