Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) warmly welcomed delegates from Northern Iloilo State University (NISU)–Main Campus for a benchmarking visit on June 1, 2026. This benchmarking activity aimed at strengthening internationalization initiatives and fostering collaborative growth.

Delegates from NISU included by Atty. Zarian Lyn A. Gasapo, International Relations Officer, and Mr. Janbeth Alindog, Information Officer II, were enthusiastically greeted by Dr. Junnifer Badoles, Vice President for External Affairs, Ms. Jieza Napone, NIA Director and Mr. Francis Fritz Esportono, ILDO Director.

During the dynamic knowledge exchange, ISAT U’s Office of National and International Affairs shared the university’s best practices, institutional milestones, and successful strategies in advancing internationalization. Both institutions emphasized their shared commitment to expanding global linkages and enhancing academic innovation. The discussions highlighted ISAT U’s achievements in building international partnerships and provided NISU with valuable insights to further strengthen its own programs.

This meaningful engagement paved the way for more robust cross-border opportunities, international collaborations, and innovative academic initiatives between the two universities. Both ISAT U and NISU expressed optimism that the partnership will contribute to the global competitiveness of their students and faculty, while reinforcing their role as leading institutions in Western Visayas.

This milestone marks another step forward in the region’s collective effort to embrace internationalization and collaborative excellence in higher education.

The Office of the Civil Defense Region VI, in partnership with the Iloilo City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Office and Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U), convened experts, leaders, barangay officials, faculty, non-teaching personnel and students for the Climate Forum on Inclusive Preparedness for Extreme Heat and ElNiño at the AVR-N Building on June 4, 2026.

With the theme “Beat the Heat, Save Every Drop, Join the Action,” the forum highlighted urgent issues surrounding climate change, extreme heat events, water conservation, and nature-based solutions for resilient communities.

Specialists shared insights on the impacts of El Niño and rising temperatures, emphasizing proactive measures for disaster preparedness and sustainable water management. Interactive activities encouraged students to take part in climate action, fostering awareness and responsibility among the next generation.Discussions underscored the importance of inclusive strategies that empower both urban and rural communities to adapt to climate challenges.

Civil Defense officials stressed that preparedness is not only about government action but also about citizen participation. They encouraged everyone to work together to build safer, greener, and more resilient communities.

The forum served as a platform to inspire young minds and strengthen collective climate awareness, ensuring that Iloilo and the wider Region VI are better equipped to face the challenges of extreme heat and El Niño.

Present during the forum were Dir. Raul Fernandez, Regional Director, Office of Civil Defense VI, Patricia Ann Constantinopla, Meteorologist, OCDRRMO and Prof. Jessica Dator-Bercilla, Resilience Fellow, NRC.

The Gender and Development (GAD) Center of Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) successfully hosted the seminar, “From Awareness to Action: Strengthening the Safe Spaces Act Together,” a timely initiative that brought together participants on June 2, 2026, to deepen their understanding of the Safe Spaces Act and its vital role in fostering respectful, inclusive, and safe environments.

The seminar underscored the importance of collective responsibility in preventing gender-based harassment and highlighted the need to promote a culture of dignity, respect, and accountability within the university and the wider community. Through interactive discussions and knowledge-sharing, participants were encouraged to translate awareness into concrete action, ensuring that the principles of the Safe Spaces Act are upheld across academic and social settings.

ISAT U’s GAD Center, headed by its Director, Dr. Alma Mae Torremoro, reaffirmed its commitment to advancing gender equality and inclusivity, emphasizing that the Safe Spaces Act is not just a legal framework but a shared responsibility that requires active participation from all members of society.

 This initiative participated by ISAT U non-teaching personnel across the system reflects the university’s dedication to creating a safer, more empowering environment for students, faculty, and stakeholders, while serving as a model for other institutions in championing gender-responsive programs.

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) conducted its three-day Systemwide New Government Procurement Act (NGPA) Training Workshop from May 26 to 28,2026 at the College Library, ISAT U Leon Campus. This initiative was undertaken to reinforce compliance and promote the highest standards of transparency in public service.

The workshop commenced with an inspiring message from University President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr., who underscored the importance of updated procurement practices in advancing ISAT U’s institutional goals and ensuring accountability in governance.

 The training features a distinguished lineup of resource speakers:

• Mr. Julius B. Undar – Chief Administrative Officer, West Visayas State University (WVSU)
• Ms. Mae L. Chua – Retired Regional Director, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Region VI
• Atty. Edron T. Bullo – Attorney IV / Head, ISAT U Legal Affairs Office

Throughout the sessions, participants engaged in in-depth discussions on legal frameworks, policy updates, and best practices under the NGPA. The initiative was designed to equip ISAT U’s administrative officers, procurement teams, and university leaders with the comprehensive knowledge necessary to navigate evolving public procurement laws.

This systemwide effort reflects ISAT U’s commitment to fostering integrity, efficiency, and transparency in its operations—ensuring that procurement processes remain aligned with national standards and institutional excellence.

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) welcomed Ms. SiQi Zhang, owner of Dandelion Consulting Co., Ltd., during a courtesy visit on May 25, 2026. The visit aimed at exploring potential academic collaborations. Dandelion Consulting is a company dedicated to facilitating educational opportunities for Chinese students in the Philippines.

The meeting was attended by ISAT U officials led by Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr., SUC President III, alongside Dr. Russ Allen B. Napud, VP for Administration and Finance; Dr. Catherine A. Yap, OIC–VP for Academic Affairs; Mr. Francis Fritz B. Esportono, OIC–VP for External Affairs; Ms. Angeline E. Basco, OIC–Director for National and International Affairs (NIA); and Mr. Rayjand T. Gellamucho, NIA Coordinator for the College of Computing and Informatics.

Discussions focused on strengthening international partnerships through initiatives such as student mobility and exchange programs, academic collaborations, industry-academe linkages, and cultural exchange activities. Both parties expressed optimism about developing mutually beneficial engagements that would expand opportunities for students and faculty alike.

The courtesy visit was made possible through the efforts of Hon. Lady Julie Grace “Love-Love” Baronda, who also attended the meeting. Her presence followed a successful ten-day roadshow in China, where she actively promoted Iloilo City as a strategic destination for Chinese investors.

This collaboration marks another step in ISAT U’s commitment to fostering global academic connections and advancing international education opportunities for its community.

 Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) proudly marked its 11th Charter Anniversary with a three-day celebration from May 16 to 18, showcasing alumni achievements, faculty and staff excellence, and groundbreaking innovations.

The festivities began with an Ecumenical Service on May 16, followed by Pasidungog 2026, a recognition ceremony honoring alumnus, jubilarians, and members of the ISAT U community. Research and innovation took center stage during Hakathon 2026, where faculty projects were featured, highlighting ISAT U’s commitment to advancing knowledge and technology.

Anchored on the Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE), Parangal 2026 paid tribute to teaching and non-teaching personnel whose dedication continues to strengthen the university’s legacy of excellence and public service. The event brought together university officials, faculty, staff, and guests in a meaningful celebration of gratitude and institutional pride.

In addition to recognition ceremonies, ISAT U inaugurated two major facilities that underscore its role as a hub for regional innovation:

• Western Visayas Regional Innovation Hub — Located at the Research Hub, ISAT U New Site, this collaborative facility provides workspaces, mentorship, networking, and business matching support to nurture local startups and boost regional economic growth. This project is in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology Regional Office VI (DOST-VI) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce & Industry – Iloilo Chapter, Inc. (PCCI) The launch was attended by DOST Regional Director Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga, DTI 6 Regional Director, Ms. Mutya D. Eusores, DICT 6 Engr. Reynaldo T. Sy, and the PCCI Iloilo President, Engr. Fulbert C. Woo.
• Advanced Regional Center for Computing and Collaboration (ARC3) — Inaugurated at the CEA-ICT Building, ARC3 is a high-performance computing facility dedicated to advancing scientific research, engineering simulations, artificial intelligence, and data-intensive innovation. The project is a collaboration with ASU, NISU, and WVSU, funded by DOST.

“These milestones reflect ISAT U’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and service to the community,” said Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr., University President, during the event. “As we celebrate our 11th Charter Anniversary, we honor the people and partnerships that continue to inspire future generations.”

The 11th Charter Anniversary celebration highlighted ISAT U’s dual mission: honoring its people and heritage while driving forward innovation and regional development in Western Visayas.

ISAT U officially launched its Heritage Month celebration on Tuesday, May 14, 2026, with a program dedicated to Panay Bukidnon traditions. Spearheaded by the Cultural Heritage Education and Research Center (CHERC), the event opened with welcome remarks from CIT Dean Dr. Jeanneth F. Darroca and a rationale presented by CHERC Director Mr. Eric de la Vega. This was followed by a keynote lecture from Ms. Anna Razel L. Ramirez of the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) and Project Coordinator of Suguidanon Epics of Panay, who discussed the Panay Bukidnon culture and the vital documentation of the Suguidanon epics. The session was enriched by the presence of Dr. Alicia P. Magos, Professor Emeritus of UPV and the pioneer researcher of the Suguidanon, who shared invaluable insights into her groundbreaking field studies.

During the program, attendees from various colleges were treated to moving chanting excerpts from the epics Tikum Kadlum and Amburukay, performed by Teresita Caballero, daughter of the legendary Lola Susa. Following an open forum, students visited the CHERC Museum to interact with exhibits honoring Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) Awardees. A focal point of the gallery is Federico “Tay Pedring” Caballero, the master chanter and GAMABA Awardee, instrumental in the complete documentation of the Suguidanon epics. Through these displays, students were able to explore the rich narratives and linguistic depth of these indigenous masterpieces firsthand.

The celebration is set to continue this coming Tuesday, May 19, starting at 8:00 AM at the GAD Grounds, where the university invites the public to witness heritage come alive. The upcoming program will feature award-winning photographer Mr. Marc Leo Layson, who will discuss  cultural heritage documentation. The event will also offer immersive live demonstrations of Panubok embroidery and the Binanog dance, performed by members of the Panay Bukidnon community. This remains a premier opportunity for the university community to engage directly with the living traditions of Panay and the legacies preserved by scholars and the Panay Bukidnon.

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) proudly served as the venue for the Public Information Agency Journ Talk Series (PJTS) 2026: Information Officers’ Edition, a landmark gathering of communication practitioners and government information officers from Region VI.

The event which was held on April 29, 2026 at the Student Services Building hall provided a dynamic platform for exchanging insights and best practices in public information and media engagement, with discussions centered on pressing topics such as Cybersecurity essentials for Government Information Officers, Cybercrime awareness and prevention, Artificial Intelligence: Getting Started for Government Information Officers.

The following distinguished resource speakers shared their expertise during the sessions: Mr. Kent Jaragbas, Information Officer I, Cybersecurity PNPKI Unit, DICT Region VI, PLT Vic Velasquez, Assistant Chief of Operations, Regional Anti-Cybercrime Group 6, and Team Leader of the Antique Provincial Cyber Response Team, Mr. Daryl Lasafin, Program Manager of Fyrlab and Youth First Initiative advocate and Mr. Rey Jand Gellamucho, National and International Affairs Coordinator for ISAT U’s College of Computing and Informatics, and General Manager of ISAT U Kwadra TBI

The activity highlighted the vital role of information officers in delivering accurate, timely, and impactful communication. It also reinforced the importance of collaboration among institutions in promoting transparency, cyber safety, and public awareness in today’s digital landscape.

By hosting PJTS 2026, ISAT U reaffirmed its commitment to advancing knowledge-sharing and capacity-building initiatives that empower government communicators to meet the challenges of modern information dissemination.

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U), in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), successfully launched a series of Youth Development Sessions this April aimed at strengthening the resilience, leadership, and growth mindset of 4Ps beneficiaries across the city.

The initiative kicked off on April 17 in Arevalo with the program “Kabataang 4Ps: Rise Up, Stand Out!” spearheaded by Dr. Joven C. Agunda. Fifty youth participants engaged in dynamic discussions on life skills development and civic responsibility, highlighting the importance of proactive citizenship and personal empowerment.

Continuing the momentum, the second session titled “4Ps Learners: Team Up, Rise UP” was held on April 21 in Mandurriao District, led by Dr. Connie Faye B. Pajadura. Sixty learners took part in activities designed to address academic challenges, focusing on collaborative strategies and the “fail forward” philosophy—encouraging participants to view setbacks as opportunities for growth and resilience.

Both sessions were facilitated by the Educator’s Guild alongside a team of dedicated resource speakers, reinforcing ISAT U’s mission to nurture socially responsible and future-ready Filipino leaders. The programs underscored the university’s commitment to empowering the youth sector, particularly 4Ps beneficiaries, with the tools and mindset needed to thrive in both personal and professional spheres.

These youth development initiatives reflect ISAT U’s broader vision of cultivating a generation of resilient, proactive, and community-oriented leaders who can rise to the challenges of the modern world.