In a strategic move to enhance institutional transparency and effectiveness of the communication system, the Public Information and Communications Office (PICO) of Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) recently conducted a comprehensive communications audit across all its four campuses and colleges.
This communications audit which started from August 26, 2025, until September 4, 2025, marked a significant step in a meaningful dialogue and systematic evaluation of the various communications needs, branding initiatives, marketing strategies, processes, and personnel. Also, this audit helped identify opportunities for improvement, develop collaborative solutions and strengthen partnerships between central communication services and local operations.
Through focus group discussions, participants were encouraged to share their experiences, concerns, and suggestions regarding the university’s communication systems. During the discussions, representatives from all colleges and campuses unanimously agreed to submit their respective pool of experts to serve as reference sources for future media interviews. This collaborative move aims to strengthen ISAT U’s public engagement and ensure that subject matter specialists are readily accessible for credible and insightful commentary.
As part of the university’s branding and marketing efforts, the participants also pledged to contribute entries to PICO’s flagship initiative—PICO Tutorials—a program designed to showcase academic expertise and promote institutional excellence through informative content.
In addition, the dialogue opened space for participants to voice their concerns regarding social media governance. Issues surrounding content management, accountability, and digital conduct were raised, highlighting the need for clearer policies and capacity-building to ensure responsible and strategic use of online platforms.
PICO Director Dr. Heinz B. Gumaquil, alongside Information Officers Rommel Griffith Habaradas and Jephthah Sustituido, unveiled a new digital innovation—PICO Link. Developed by the Public Information and Communications Office, PICO Link is designed to streamline the online posting of activities and events across ISAT U’s various offices and campuses. This tool empowers departments to share updates and media content efficiently, even in the absence of PICO personnel, ensuring timely and consistent communication throughout the university’s digital platforms. Beyond streamlining online postings, PICO Link will also function as a centralized digital archive for official photos and issuances. This feature ensures that essential documentation is systematically stored and easily retrievable—especially during institutional accreditations and audits. By providing quick access to verified materials, PICO Link reinforces ISAT U’s commitment to transparency, organization, and operational efficiency.
With these collective efforts and innovations, ISAT U continues to build a more connected, responsive, and future-ready academic community. The communications audit not only highlighted areas for improvement but also ignited a shared vision for a stronger, more unified approach to institutional communication.
