ISAT U Receives Platinum Cluster Award ITSO Presidents’ Summit and General Assembly 2026

The ITSO Presidents’ Summit and General Assembly 2026marked a proud milestone as leaders, experts, and innovators gathered on March 25, 2026, at Diversion 21 Hotel, Iloilo City, to celebrate 15 years of strengthening the Philippine Technology Innovation Support Centers (TISCs).

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U), through its Intellectual Property Management Office, which stood as a co-organizer of the summit has been recognized with the prestigious Platinum Cluster Award. This award highlights the university’s involvement and commitment to fostering creativity, protecting intellectual property rights, and driving technological advancements that benefit both local and global communities.

This event also highlights the country’s progress in advancing technology transfer, innovation, and intellectual property management, serving as a vital platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and the promotion of a robust innovation ecosystem.

The summit brought together distinguished presidents of Innovation and Technology Support Offices (ITSOs), industry experts, and academic leaders who shared insights on the latest trends in intellectual property and technology transfer, explored new opportunities for growth and development, strengthened collaboration among institutions and stakeholders and gave their support to the Philippines’ ongoing efforts to build a sustainable innovation ecosystem.

With a strong emphasis on intellectual property rights and technology innovation, the ITSO Presidents’ Summit and General Assembly 2026 reaffirms the nation’s dedication to empowering innovators, protecting creative works, and driving economic growth through technology.

This milestone celebration not only honors 15 years of achievements but also sets the stage for future breakthroughs, ensuring that the Philippines continues to thrive in the global innovation landscape.

𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲: 𝗜𝗦𝗔𝗧 𝗨 𝗥𝗮𝗻𝗸𝘀 𝟲𝘁𝗵, 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗹𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 𝗘𝗖𝗘 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗖𝗧 𝗕𝗼𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗘𝘅𝗮𝗺𝘀

Iloilo Science and Technology University secured 6th place among the country’s top-performing schools in the March 2026 Electronics Engineers Licensure Examination (EELE), posting an 83.67% overall passing rate with 41 out of 49 examinees successfully passed the exam.

The university qualified under the category of schools with 20 or more examinees and with at least 80% passing rate, reflecting its consistent performance in the licensure examinations. Its results also exceeded the national passing rate of 61.62%.

Among first-time takers, ISAT U recorded a 90.91% passing rate, with 40 out of 44 examinees passing the exam.

In the Electronics Technicians Licensure Examination (ETLE), the university delivered a strong performance. ISAT U achieved an 89.80% overall passing rate, with 44 out of 49 examinees passing, surpassing the 78.16% national passing rate. First-time takers posted a 93.62% passing rate, with 44 out of 47 examinees successfully passing.

Behind the numbers are stories of long nights, sacrifices, and determination—from students who pushed through the pressure, to mentors who guided them every step of the way. For the ISAT U community, this recognition is not just about rankings, but about the collective effort that made the success possible.

The Electronics Engineers Licensure Examination was conducted on March 17–18, 2026, followed by the Electronics Technicians Licensure Examination on March 19, 2026.

Global Collaboration Marks World Water Day 2026 Celebration

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) proudly led a global gathering on March 24, 2026, in celebration of World Water Day 2026, uniting partner institutions from across the Philippines and around the world in a shared commitment to water sustainability and environmental responsibility.

The virtual event, organized in collaboration with Metro Iloilo Water District and the Western Visayas Council of International Relations Officers, showcased meaningful contributions from a diverse network of universities and organizations.

Among the featured presenters were:

  • Universitas Bhinneka Nusantara (Indonesia)
  • University of Malaya (Malaysia)
  • University of Puthisastra (Cambodia)
  • Universitas Sebelas Maret (Indonesia)
  • Panpacific University (Philippines)
  • Urdaneta City University (Philippines)
  • Colegio de San Jose (Philippines)
  • Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology – Dingle Campus (Philippines)
  • John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University – Molo, Inc. (Philippines)
  • University of Antique – Hamtic Campus & Tario Lim Memorial Campus (Philippines)
  • University of San Agustin (Philippines)
  • West Visayas State University (Philippines)

The celebration was further enriched by contributions from:

  • Bina Insani University (Indonesia)
  • Institute of Brunei Technical Education Agro-Technology Campus (Brunei)
  • Politeknik Nilai (Malaysia)
  • SK Bandar Enstek (Malaysia)
  • Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies (Uzbekistan)
  • State University of Northern Negros (Philippines)
  • University of Abra – Bangued & Lagangilang Campuses (Philippines)
  • Capiz State University – Pontevedra Campus (Philippines)
  • Filamer Christian University (Philippines)

The event served as a dynamic platform for exchanging ideas, showcasing sustainability initiatives, and reinforcing a united global effort to protect and sustain one of humanity’s most vital resources—water.

World Water Day 2026 at ISAT U highlighted not only the urgency of addressing water challenges but also the power of collaboration across borders. By bringing together institutions from Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and across the Philippines, the celebration underscored the importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding water for future generations.

ISAT U Earns Level II Accreditation at 39th AACCUP National Conference

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) proudly marked a historic milestone at the 39th Annual National Conference and General Assembly organized by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) on March 24, 2026, at Century Park Hotel, Manila. The University was officially awarded Level II Accreditation, a prestigious recognition that underscores ISAT U’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and sustainable development.

Representing the institution at the ceremony were Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr. (ISAT U President III), Dr. Corazon C. Corbal (Vice President for Academic Affairs), and Dr. Frisian Y. Causing (UQAC Director), who accepted the accolade on behalf of the entire ISAT U community. Their presence highlighted the collective dedication of faculty, staff, and students in continuously raising the standards of higher education.

For Dr. Salistre this achievement is more than just a recognition but a testament to the hard work, resilience, and vision of the university community. The university, according to him, remains steadfast in its mission to provide quality education and to make meaningful contributions to the academic and professional landscape of the Philippines.

The Level II Accreditation affirms ISAT U’s progress in delivering programs that meet rigorous quality standards, while also strengthening its role in shaping future leaders and innovators. It reflects the university’s ongoing efforts to align with global benchmarks in education, research, and community engagement.

University produces another Topnotcher in MELE

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) community is beaming with pride as one of its own, Engr. Sandro Floyd Tome Tumenlaco, secured a covetedspot in the Top 10 of the February 2026 Mechanical Engineers Licensure Examination. With a remarkable average score of 89.25%, Engr. Tumenlaco proudly earned the tenth place nationwide, bringing honor to himself, his family, and the entire ISAT U community.

This remarkable achievement highlights not only his personal dedication and excellence but also the university’s commitment to producing world-class engineers. Engr. Tumenlaco who hails from Tigbauan, Iloilo, is the 4th topnotcher produced by the ISAT U Mechanical Engineering Department. His success stands as a testament to years of hard work, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to his craft as well as that of the faculty of the ME Department.

University officials, faculty members, and fellow students joined in celebrating this historic milestone, recognizing the honor he has brought to his family and to ISAT U. His accomplishment reinforces the institution’s reputation as a leading center for engineering education in the country.

As ISAT U continues to nurture future innovators and leaders, Engr. Tumenlaco’s success serves as an inspiration for aspiring engineers across the nation.

ISAT U Launches Mid-Week Reset Program

Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U) has strengthened its commitment to employee wellness with the introduction of the Mid-Week Reset Program, a new initiative of the ISAT U Employees Association, designed to foster balance between professional responsibilities and physical well-being.

Held every Wednesday, the program encourages faculty, staff, and students to step away from their desks and engage in energizing activities such as Zumba, team sports, and walking sessions. These activities not only promote physical health but also nurture camaraderie and teamwork across the university community.

University officials emphasized that the Mid-Week Reset reflects ISAT-U’s dedication to creating a vibrant and supportive workplace. By prioritizing wellness, the institution aims to enhance productivity while cultivating a culture of care and collaboration.

The Mid-Week Reset Program which started on February 18, 2026, has already received positive feedback from participants, who highlight its role in reducing stress, boosting morale, and reinforcing the university’s holistic approach to education and workplace well-being.

Radyo Pilipinas Iloilo Inaugurates New Office at ISAT U; Partnership Strengthens Public Information Efforts

Radyo Pilipinas Iloilo formally opened and blessed its new office located at the 5th Floor of the Student Services Building of the Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) on December 3, 2025. The activity also included the blessing of newly acquired vehicles that will support the station’s field and broadcast operations.

The establishment of the new office is part of the ongoing partnership between ISAT U and Radyo Pilipinas Iloilo, allowing the station to operate within the University campus. In return, ISAT U gains enhanced access to the station’s broadcast platform, expanding the University’s public information and communication initiatives through radio, in addition to its existing digital and print channels.

The event was attended by Presidential Broadcast Services – Bureau of Broadcast Services (PBS–BBS) Director General Fernando “Dindo” Amparo Sanga, Acting Station Manager Elena Pabiona, and Radyo Pilipinas Iloilo personnel. Representing ISAT U were University President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr., Vice President for External Affairs Dr. Nemia Mabaquiao, Public Information and Communications Office (PICO) Director Dr. Heinz B. Gumaquil, and PDAS Director Dr. Sammy Daitao.

Both institutions expressed optimism that the strengthened partnership will elevate public service delivery and enhance the dissemination of timely and relevant information to the community.

ISAT U, DILG-6 Forge Partnership to Boost Fiscal Capacity of Western Visayas LGUs

The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) has formalized its role as the research arm for a landmark local governance reform initiative in Western Visayas, signing a Memorandum of Agreement with the Department of the Interior and Local Government Region VI on October 28.

Photo Credit: DILG VI Facebook Page

The agreement, signed by ISAT U President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr. and DILG-6 Regional Director Juan Jovien Enginiero, tasks the university with conducting two comprehensive research studies across Region 6 under the Decentralization and Local Governance Reform Advocacy Program (DLGRAP).

DLGRAP represents DILG’s flagship and pioneering research initiative in Western Visayas, specifically designed to strengthen the fiscal capabilities of local government units (LGUs) throughout the country. The program comes at a critical time as LGUs navigate the impacts of the landmark Mandanas-Garcia Supreme Court ruling and the implementation of the Full Devolution Transition Plan.

The two funded research projects will cover all provinces in Region 6—Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, and Iloilo, examining how LGUs are managing increased fiscal resources and devolved functions from national government agencies.

Photo Credit: DILG VI Facebook Page

Dr. Salistre emphasized the university’s commitment to producing actionable research. “ISAT U is honored to contribute to strengthening local governance in our region. Our research will provide LGUs with practical strategies and evidence to maximize the benefits of fiscal decentralization.”

Consortium Commitment Renewed

During the same ceremony, seven member institutions of the Western Visayas Local Governance Resource Consortium (WVLGRC) renewed their commitments through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding.

The consortium members include UP Visayas, ISAT University, Carlos Hilado State University, Guimaras State University, Central Philippine University, University of San Agustin, and STI West Negros—representing a mix of state universities and colleges (SUCs) and private higher education institutions.

The WVLGRC serves as a collaborative platform pooling academic expertise to support DILG’s capacity-building initiatives for LGUs across Western Visayas. Member universities provide technical assistance, training programs, research support, and policy advisory services to local governments in the region.

ISAT U was designated last August as the Lead Convenor of WVLGRC for a three-year term, coordinating consortium activities and serving as the primary liaison with DILG-6.

“The renewal of this consortium demonstrates our collective commitment to evidence-based local governance reform,” Dr. Salistre noted. “By working together, our universities can provide more comprehensive and coordinated support to LGUs facing increasingly complex governance challenges.”

The partnership between DILG-6 and the academic consortium reflects a growing recognition that sustainable local governance reform requires rigorous research, technical expertise, and collaborative approaches between government and academic institutions.

Results from the DLGRAP research studies are to be disseminated to LGUs across Western Visayas to inform national decentralization policy.

Photo Credit: DILG VI Facebook Page

Stitch-Off 2025 Marks Third Straight Win for Fashion Design Students

Proving its steady rise in the national fashion arena, Bachelor of Science in Fashion Design and Merchandising (BSFDM) students of the Fashion and Wellness Department once again brought pride to the University after clinching the First Runner-up and Youth Fave Award at the Stitch Off: Filipiniana- Coded Tech-Know Fashion Show on October 22, 2025 at Foro de Intramuros, Manila.

Team of Jarre Silvestre, Christian Dave Dolorfino and Twinkle Joy Cabaluna with faculty coaches Ms. Jasmine S. Ibones and Mr. Peter Gagula captivated both the audience and judges with their innovative design and craftsmanship as they competed against renowned fashion design schools nationwide- adding to the university’s growing recognition.

The winning collection, “Beyond the Current” took inspiration on the lives of fisherfolks and the sea with its pleats mimicking the motion of water, while delicate embroidery follows the ebb and flow of the waves.

In its third season, Stitch-off focused on reimagining Filipiana using Philippine Tropical Fabrics (PTF) and local weaves woven by weaving communities.

This year’s award has demonstrated the University’s unwavering excellence in fashion innovation, securing top placement for three consecutive years; Champion in 2023, Second Runner-up in 2024 and First Runner-up in 2025.

“The achievements of our students throughout the years, reflect the quality of instruction and industry exposure they receive at ISAT U,” said Dr. Edith P. Gonzales, Department Head of the Fashion and Wellness.

She added that the students’ success in national competitions like Stitch-Off demonstrates how academic training, research integration, and hands-on experiences collectively hone their creativity and technical skills.

The event organized by the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST–PTRI) aimed to celebrate creativity and promote the use of local textiles in modern fashion.

ISAT U joins 9th National Archives Congress 2025

The 9th National Archives Congress brought together a dynamic assembly of archivists, librarians, records managers, museologists, information professionals, and cultural heritage custodians from across the Philippines. This even was held from October 20 to 23, 2025, at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel in Iloilo City, Anchored on the theme “Capacity Building on Digital Archiving and Preservation for Archives and Cultural Institutions,” the congress served as a vital platform for strengthening professional competencies in the digital age.

The event’s core objective was to empower participants with advanced skills in digital preservation, metadata management, ethical custodianship, and equitable access to archival resources. Through a rich program of plenary sessions, hands-on workshops, and poster presentations, attendees explored cutting-edge strategies in digitization, file format sustainability, copyright navigation, and emerging trends in archival technology.

Representing Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) were Dr. Rovilyn D. Somcio, University Librarian, Mr. Eric de la Vega, CHERC Director, Architect Ma. Regina P. Falconite, Architect John Zeus Rosalin and librarians Mr. Mario Sunday Adison, Ms. Jamela Mantiquilla, Sherryl Buňo and Mary Josette Jundio.

As part of the congress itinerary, participants visited the ISAT U Center for Heritage and Resource Center (CHERC), one of the featured institutions. At CHERC, Architect John Zeus Rosalin showcased the center’s digitization initiative, providing a live demonstration of the document scanning process using their specialized equipment. The visit also included a tour of the Memorabilia Museum, where guests had the opportunity to engage in hands-on reading of the digitized Makinaugalingon newspaper—offering a tangible connection to Iloilo’s rich historical and cultural legacy.

Beyond technical knowledge, the congress underscored the profound role of archives as guardians of truth, culture, and collective memory especially amid rapid technological transformation. It championed inter-institutional collaboration, highlighting the contributions of key partners such as the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), West Visayas State University (WVSU), the Philippine Librarians Association, Inc. – Western Visayas Regional Librarians Council (PLAI–WVRLC), and the Society of Filipino Archivists (SFA).

Messages from government leaders, educators, and archival experts resonated with a shared conviction: digital preservation is not merely a technical endeavor but a moral. It demands a commitment to safeguarding the authenticity, accessibility, and long-term sustainability of the nation’s historical and cultural records—ensuring that future generations inherit a well-preserved legacy of identity and truth.