Tila-ok Poultry Management System Brings Home Award for ISAT U

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) proudly celebrates the success of the Tila-ok Poultry Management System, which earned the Best Use of Technology Award during the prestigious Tech Planter Demo Day in the Philippines 2026. The event which took place on May 30, 2026, at the University of Sto. Tomas, Sampaloc, Manila, was organized by Leave a Nest Philippines.

This recognition underscores the project’s innovative approach to tackling challenges in poultry production through technology-driven solutions. Developed by Mr. Guy Arellano, the system reflects his vision and expertise in creating practical innovations that enhance efficiency and sustainability in agriculture.

During the national pitching competition, Mr. Lloyd D. Esparagoza of the Intellectual Property Management Office (IPMO), represented the team and delivered a compelling technical presentation. His showcase highlighted the system’s capabilities, its impact on poultry management, and its strong value proposition before a panel of industry experts, innovators, and technology stakeholders.

The award is a testament to ISAT U’s unwavering commitment to innovation, technology commercialization, and community-focused solutions. By supporting projects like Tila-ok, the university continues to empower its researchers and students to transform ideas into technologies that drive national development and global progress.

ISAT U Futures Thinking Team Begins Strategic Planning and Budgeting Workshop

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) Futures Thinking Team has officially opened its two-day Strategic Planning and Budgeting Workshop at the ISAT U HRT Center. The workshop marks a crucial step in preparing the university for the challenges and opportunities of 2027, while refining ongoing projects for 2026.

The program focuses on three key areas: proposal writing, budget preparation, and the revision of existing proposals. By strengthening these processes, ISAT U ensures that every initiative receives the necessary support to succeed and contribute meaningfully to the institution’s long-term vision.

Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut, Vice President for Research and Extension, emphasized that the workshop is more than just a planning exercise—it is an investment in the growth of its members. With a strong emphasis on research and advanced proposal writing, the training equips participants with the tools to transform innovative ideas into formal research projects that directly benefit the community.

This workshop helps build a stronger foundation for discovery and progress as well as enhances the skills in research and budgeting. Through this Futures Thinking activity ISAT U remains at the forefront of innovation and service. Participants to this activity were faculty members from the whole ISAT U system.

The Futures Thinking Team plays a vital role in aligning the university’s goals with the evolving needs of society. Through strategic foresight and careful resource planning, ISAT U continues to position itself as a leader in education, research, and community development.

HBM Department Holds Send-Off Seminar for Batch 2026 Graduates

The Hospitality and Business Management (HBM) Department of Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) proudly hosted the “From ISAT U to Career: A Send-Off Seminar” for Batch 2026 HBM graduates, marking a significant milestone as students prepare to transition from academic life to professional careers.

The seminar, held on June 1, 2026, was designed to equip graduating students with essential knowledge and skills for workplace readiness. Discussions and activities focused on leadership, inclusivity, entrepreneurship, and professional growth—key areas that will help graduates thrive in diverse industries.

Faculty members, guest speakers, and industry professionals shared valuable insights, encouraging students to embrace challenges and opportunities with confidence. The event also highlighted the importance of adaptability and innovation in today’s competitive business environment. During the seminar,

Dr. Alma Mae Torremoro delivered an insightful discussion on gender equality, the Safe Spaces Act, and the “Bawal Bastos” law, emphasizing their relevance in preparing students for the realities of the professional world. She highlighted the importance of fostering inclusive workplaces, respecting diversity, and upholding ethical standards as future leaders and entrepreneurs. Meanwhile, Mr. Michael Distura of the ISAT U Intellectual Property Management Office delivered a concise yet impactful lecture on Intellectual Property (IP), aimed at empowering students who aspire to establish their own businesses. He emphasized the importance of protecting original ideas, innovations, and creative works, underscoring how IP rights serve as a cornerstone for entrepreneurial success.

As the graduates take their next steps beyond the university, ISAT U celebrates their achievements and extends its best wishes for their future endeavors. The send-off seminar reflects the institution’s commitment to nurturing not only academic excellence but also holistic development, ensuring that its graduates are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions in their chosen fields.

NISU Benchmarks with ISAT U’s Internationalization Programs

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.

ISAT U Hosts Region VI Climate Change Forum

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.

GAD Center Champions Safe Spaces Act Through Seminar

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.

ISAT U Students Shine in Indonesia

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) proudly celebrates the success of its student delegates who completed the Universitas Sebelas Maret International ShortCourse in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, held from May 13–19, 2026.

Representing the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) and the College of Computing andInformatics (CCI were student leaders Jen-K Franzyn E. Altillero- BS Biology 4-A. Arce Kenth Dapat – BS Biology 4-A, and Marielle Faye D. Bene – BS Computer Science.

The immersive three-day program blended conservation science, biodiversity citizenship, and community-based sustainable resource management, equipping participants with exposure to cutting-edge global frameworks and practical approaches to sustainability.

This international milestone underscores ISAT U’s commitment to providing cross-borderlearning opportunities that enrich classroom education with real-world global experiences. By engaging in programs like this, ISAT U students gain broader cultural insights through international collaboration, meaningful networks with peers and experts worldwide, empowered leadership skills to drive innovation in their fields.

By participating in this international event, ISAT U remains steadfast in its mission to foster academic excellence and globalcompetence, preparing students to become leaders who can address pressing challenges in science, technology, and society.

ISAT U Launches Systemwide NGPA Training Workshop

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.

ISAT U Explores Academic Collaboration with Dandelion Consulting Co., Ltd.

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.

ISAT U Celebrates 11th Charter Anniversary

 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.