Author: Babelyn Cabalar

The Board of Regents of Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U), Iloilo City, formally and publicly announces that the Search for the President is now open.  

Babelyn Cabalar

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS. Applicants for ISAT U Presidency MUST possess the following minimum qualifications:

  1. At least thirty-five (35) years old (from the actual date of birth and not a day younger) and not more than sixty-one (61) years old on the day of the expiration of the term of the incumbent President (which is 4 August 2023). Sixty-one (61) years old shall mean from the actual date of birth and not a day older beyond 61 years old;

 

  1. Natural-born Filipino citizen as defined in Article IV, Section 2 of the 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines;
  2. Holder of an earned doctorate degree from a CHED-recognized HEI or foreign institution accredited by its respective higher education ministry/commission or appropriate regulatory body, which is defined as Level 8 in the PQF under RA No. 10968 on and before (a minimum of five years) the degree was earned;
  3. With proven track record as SUC/LUC administrator (President, Vice-President, Dean, Campus Administrator, Director) or high-level management executive/administrator, preferably in the academe, whether in public or private, for at least five (5) years;
  4. Must not have been convicted for a crime involving moral turpitude, an offense punishable by imprisonment, suspended administratively for twelve (12) months, or dismissed from service.

DOCUMENTARY REQUIREMENTS:

  1. Formal Application letter addressed to:

Dr. J. Prospero E. De Vera III

Chairperson

Commission on Higher Education (CHED)

HEDC Bldg., C.P. Garcia Ave.,

U.P. Campus, Diliman, Quezon City

  1. Detailed Curriculum Vitae, attested and signed by the applicant. Certified true copy of documents in support of the data stated in the Curriculum Vitae. The HRM Officer of the organization where the applicant comes from, may certify to the authenticity of the documents, provided that the original is presented to him or her for comparison; These include documents such as transcript of records, training certifications, professional accreditations, diplomas, and employment/service records;
  2. Published research work, if any;
  3. Signed and notarized statement containing the Proposed Vision, Mission, and Development Goals for ISAT U by the applicant;
  4. Certificates or clearances from the following government agencies, obtained no more than three (3) months from the date of filing of application, indicating that the applicant has not been found guilty in any administrative or criminal offense:

5.1 National Bureau of Investigation (NBI);

5.2 Sandiganbayan;

5.3 Civil Service Commission (CSC);

5.4 Office of the City Prosecutor

5.5 Office of the Ombudsman (for government employees), and;

5.6 Institution or company where applicant is presently employed.

  1. Birth certificate issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA);
  2. Medical certificate of physical fitness issued by a physician from a government-recognized or accredited health institution but not the same institution where the applicant is presently employed, who and that is not in any way connected respectively, with the applicant or ISAT U.
  3. Successful drug testing certificate pursuant to the CSC Memorandum Circular No. 13, s 2017
  4. Successful results of neuro-psychiatric examination conducted by a physician from a government-recognized or accredited health institution but not the same institution where the applicant is presently employed, who and that is not in any way connected respectively, with the applicant or ISAT U;
  5. Duly accomplished, computerized, and notarized Personal Data Sheet (CSC Form 212) made under oath;
  6. 2022 SALN (Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth) made under oath (for government employees); and
  7. 2022 Income Tax Return (ITR) or BIR Form 2316 (if substituted filing).

An applicant who does not meet any of the above-mentioned minimum qualifications and cannot submit any of the pertinent supporting documentary evidences on the set deadline shall automatically be disqualified from the search process.

IMPORTANT:

  1. Interested applicants must submit one (1) set of original and seven (7) certified photocopies of the aforementioned documents on or before June 2, 2023, 5PM (Philippine Standard Time) to:

Secretariat, SCP

Desiree Mae Abalos

Office of the Chair, CHED

HEDC Building, C.P. Garcia Avenue

UP Diliman, Quezon City

Secretariat, SCP

Dr. Mergie C. Gasataya

University/Board Secretary

ISAT U

Burgos Street, La Paz Iloilo City Campus 5000

However, on the last day of submission, it shall be made only at the office of the University/Board Secretary, ISAT U, Iloilo City Campus.

 

(SGD) ALICE JOAN G. FERRER, PhD

Chair, Search Committee for the Next President of ISAT U

ISAT U celebrates 8th Charter Anniversary

Babelyn Cabalar

Iloilo Science and Technology University celebrated its 8th Charter Anniversary with the theme, Breakthroughs and Transformation: A Celebration. The weeklong festivity started with a caravan within the city area last May 14, featuring all the topnotchers across the system.

The theme, Breakthroughs and Transformation: A Celebration, was chosen to highlight and give emphasis all the achievements and blessings the University has achieved for eight years that is worthy to be celebrated.

All the breakthroughs and transformations are a clear manifestation that the administration is doing its best to deliver quality education and services to all its stakeholders.

A thanksgiving mass officiated by Rev. Fr. Joaper G. Geraneo, Vice Chancellor and the Secretary to the Archbishop of Jaro, commenced after the simultaneous Zumba activity.

During his homily, Fr. Geraneo highlighted that God works through everyone, and we are differently gifted and that we compliment each.

“The school has been honored through the many wonderful, bright, and talented products. Added to that is the strong sense of cooperation of everyone,” shared by Fr. Geraneo.

After the thanksgiving mass, the blessing of the University Library, L-Building, and the unveiling of Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Stars followed.

During the opening program, Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr. expressed that ISAT U has undergone remarkable changes, developments, and achievements that have propelled everyone towards greater heights.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we also take this opportunity to recognize the breakthroughs and transformations that have taken place within our institution and reflect upon how far we have come,” said Dr. Salistre.

“The history of the Iloilo Science and Technology University is one that is rooted on innovation, excellence, and progress. Since our establishment in 1905 as an elementary trade school, ISAT U has grown to become a leading institution of higher learning, research, and development in the region,” he added.

University President Dr. Raul F. Muyong declared the opening of the Charter Week with high spirit, encouraging everyone to participate in the different activities for the week-long celebration.

Mr. Jay Treñas, representing the City Mayor Hon. Jerry P. Treñas also graced the gathering. He expressed how the city government appreciates the achievements of the University over the years.

Present during the celebration were the Vice President for Research and Extension Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut, Vice President for External Affairs Dr. Nemia H. Mabacquiao and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Corazon P. Corbal.

ISAT U Leon Campus holds a Testimonial Program for the LET and LEA topnotcher and passers

Babelyn Cabalar

The ISAT U Leon Campus hosted a testimonial program in honor of the November 2022 Agriculturist Licensure Examination (LEA) topnotcher, Mr. Jefferson T. Orr and of other successful passers of LEA and the October 2022 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) at the University’s Covered Gym.

The event was to give due recognition to the good performance of the graduates of ISAT U Leon Campus. The University takes pride in producing topnotcher for the first time in history in Licensure Examination for Agriculturists and other passers in the said exam last November 2022. Another reason for the celebration was the University’s good performance in the October 2022 Licensure Examination for Teachers.

Dr. Raul F. Muyong, university president congratulated the LEA topnotcher and all the LEA and LET passers. He was also grateful for the service and dedication of the faculty and staff in achieving excellent education with the leadership of Dr. Julito C. Aligaen. He challenged Mr. Jefferson T. Orr and other successful passers to bring the values the University has instilled to them wherever they go.

Mr. Jefferson T. Orr, 7th placer in the Agriculturist Licensure Examination received a plaque of recognition and a monetary incentive from the University on top of the personal cash incentive given by President Muyong. He said he was grateful to be an alumna of ISAT U, Leon Campus. He extended his gratitude to his family,  teachers,

classmates and friends who have supported him.

Amidst uncertainties: What it takes to dream!

Babelyn Cabalar

 

When the rest of the world was sleeping, uncertainty came to wreak havoc – a global pandemic, spreading like wildfire. The virus lured the globe and decayed a plethora of lives that left almost everyone feeling helpless and hopeless. Everyone was brought to their knees in a single sweep, except for the stout-hearted individuals. Ivan Omar Lusterio Nobleza, Licensed Professional Teacher (LPT), was among them who persevered in reaching his goal patiently towards becoming a licensed professional teacher.

“I made every second count while studying and getting ready for the licensure examination despite the fact that the pandemic had challenged us in terms of how we were going to continue learning,” Ivan said in an interview.

He emphasized the significance of tenacity in the face of adversity. With the ongoing global pandemic, most establishments, especially schools were closed for protocol concerns, but he continued his steps toward his goal, which he accomplished excellently.

Ivan started getting ready for the examination in March 2020. He utilized reviewers at hand and that of the Professional Career Center of Excellence, Co. (PCCE), led by Mrs. Ruby, offering him free review sessions.

Three months before the examination, he temporarily left his office clerk job and continued studying at the public library daily. He studied independently during weekdays and attended review sessions on weekends.

Last December 16, 2022, the results were publicly published, 56 working days after the licensure exam. The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) reported that 49,783 students (54.43%) passed the Elementary Level, while 71,080 students (50.94%) made it in the Secondary Level.

“The triumph of passing the board exam is a doorway that I have unlocked, and patience and perseverance are the keys. No matter what course a student is studying, patience and perseverance are constant points of contention. If you lack patience and persistence, you will not be able to accomplish anything,” he added.

Ivan Omar L. Nobleza of Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) passed the October 2022 Licensure Examination for Teachers (Elementary Level) and ranked 10th overall with an examination rating of 92.60%. Overall, ISAT U achieved a national passing rate of 89.47% for elementary and 62.63% for secondary.

Given in different testing centers nationwide, the LET is taken by education graduates twice a year, usually in March and September. Successful test-takers will be eligible to practice their profession and obtain a teaching license.

Undoubtedly, Mr. Nobleza, along with the rest of the LET passers has once again stood as a testimony that the Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) College of Education (COE) is, indeed, a Center of Development (COD) for Teacher Education. As his name reflects, IVAN, truly is Idealistic, Valiant, Austere, and Notable.

IDEALISTIC AND GADABOUT STUDENT

“As a student, I find delight in attending school. Since I am mindful of my duties as a student, I am able to both enjoy learning and fulfill my responsibilities.”

Ivan finished his elementary in Jose Gonzaga Elementary School, Bacolod City. He graduated high school in Negros Occidental High School. In 2004, he enrolled in the Mechanical Engineering program at Technological University of the Philippines Visayas, yet he ceased attending school because of financial challenges. He then enrolled in a private college in Manila to study Computer Science while supporting himself by working other part-time jobs besides janitorial before deciding to pursue Education, which was his dream career.

He tried his luck in Iloilo City, determined to graduate and pursue his ideal profession. In 2016, he enrolled in the Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd) at ISAT U. His sister provided financial support for him during his first and second years, but by the third year, when ISAT U started offering free tuition and fees, he was very happy because he was able to sustain himself until he could graduate.

He excelled as a leader whilst in college. In his first year, he served as their section’s vice president. After gaining vice presidential experience, he contributed to the advancement of his Council and was subsequently elected vice president of the BEEd Council. Later, in his third year, he was elected as the Educators’ Guild secretary, and in his fourth year, he was voted as the Educators’ Guild vice governor.

VALIANT SON

“They say that the youngest sibling is favored, but in my case, I carry with me myriad responsibilities.”

Of the six siblings, Ivan was the youngest. Even though he lacked a stable job back then, he managed to help his family. He is really understanding and helpful. He is aware of his responsibilities and offers his time to compensate for those things that he cannot provide, financially.

AUSTERE STUDENT ASSISTANT

“I enjoy working, and I believe that working as a student assistant has taught me a lot. Managing school and work developed me towards transcendence.”

He was working as a student assistant at the Pedagogy Department of the College during his spare time, making up the four hours that a student assistant is required to render. He was a diligent, responsible, and methodical student assistant. Ivan used his workload as an opportunity to develop skills that he could use in his everyday life rather than as stressors.

NOTABLE FRIEND

“True friends make life more enjoyable. I can give my buddies my time just like I do for my family.” Others first perceived him as snooty and acrimonious, despite the fact that they were familiar with his upbeat personality. He is the kind of friend who makes jokes and shares lores. He always makes a sincere effort to support his colleagues. He gives off his time and part of himself to help his friends as he would his family.

IVAN: HENCEFORWARD

“I want to work toward becoming a teacher, in the real sense of the word, who can make a difference for the students, the institution, and society. I don’t just want to be a teacher whose teachings are confined to a classroom. I want to actively teach others how to improve what needs to be improved. I should be able to resolve the issues that should be resolved in terms of education since that is what the teacher’s role should be – a teacher who can have an impact on the students’ life,” Ivan said during the interview.

With experience, determination, and discipline, he was able to accomplish his dream and succeed with flying colors in the teachers’ licensure exam.

Truly, dreams were put on hold when the world was slapped awake and crippled by the global pandemic. But for Ivan Omar L. Nobleza, a LET topnotcher and a now Licensed Professional Teacher, education brewed with patience and perseverance is an ambrosia toward success. | Ritsdon Hijastro

 

ISAT U grads top 2023 board exams

Babelyn Cabalar

Joshua Aniken Garcia Acusta, ranked no. 1 and Dante John Sudario Robles, ranked no. 4 in the Electronics Engineering and Electronics Technician board exams respectively based on the results released by the PRC on Wednesday, April 26.

Engr. Acusta and Engr. Robles belong to the graduates of batch 2022. Both are outstanding performers in their academics and are also champion chess players.

In an interview, Engr. Acusta revealed that  he was not expecting to be the Top 1 although there are a lot of people telling him that he has the potential.

“I was not really expecting it. However, some people including my professors in college were telling me otherwise. Giving you pressure in a good way.”

Engr. Robles on the other hand revealed that they followed certain ‘superstitions’ when they took the exams.

“We just laughed about it but before taking the exams, we also  observed using something red and even had our p

encil sharpened by a previous topnotcher”, he said.

Both topnotchers will receive cash incentives from the University with Engr. Acusta getting 100k and 25k for Engr. Robles. A testimonial dinner will also be conducted in their honor and the other passers of the licensure exams.

CHED Chair Popoy De Vera commended this feat of the University in his Facebook post.

“After last months testimonial dinner for the 48/48 passing and #4 in the mechanical engineering exam, eto naman #1 sa electronics engineering exam ang ISATU! Congratulations President Raul Muyong and the faculty of ISATU for your mentorship! Testimonial dinner na ulit!”

For his part, ISAT U President Dr. Raul F. Muyong attributes this success to a number of factors. He said, “This is a culmination of   a number of things. A stringent selection process in our admission, hiring of quality faculty members, and the provision of an enabling environment in the University where opportunity like this could grow and prosper.”

In less than a year from June 2022, the University was able to produce the following topnotchers from various licensure exams:

Rank 1 – Architect Licensure Examination

Rank 1 – Electronics Engineers Licensure Examination

Rank 4 – Licensure Examination for Mechanical Engineers

Rank 4 – Electronics Technician Licensure Exams

Rank 7 – Agriculturist Licensure Exams

Rank 10 – Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers

ISAT U hosts Testimonial Dinner for new Mechanical Engineers, Topnotcher

Babelyn Cabalar

The University hosted a Testimonial Dinner in honor of Engr. Nikko Perez Martirizar, Rank 4 and passers of the February 2023 Mechanical Engineers Licensure Exams on April 14 at the Diversion 21 Hotel, Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

Engr. Martirizar is the 4th Topnotcher produced by the University after a string of exemplary performances from Ar. Ofianga (Rank 1), Orr (Rank 7), and Nobleza (Rank 10) in Architect, Agriculturist, and Professional Teachers board exams respectively.

The ISAT U new Mechanical Engineers also registered a 44/44 or 100% passing rate for first time takers which gave t

he University a distinction as the TOP 2 Performing School in the entire country.

“We are happy for the achievement of Engr. Martirizar. We commend our faculty members from the College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) and personnel for putting us on the map once again through this performance,” according to Dr. Muyong.

CHED Chair Dr. J Prospero E. De Vera III emphasized the role of the faculty members and the entire organization in producing topnotchers. Chair Popoy is one of the attendees together with CHED VI Regional Director  Dr. Raul C. Alvarez, and other members of the Board of Regents of the University.

Engr. Martirizar received a monetary incentive of 25K and other cash and non – cash incentives from Dr. Muyong, CHED Chair Popoy, and members of the board.

ISAT U participates in the IFEP in CU India

Babelyn Cabalar

Four faculty members from the Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) have returned from Chandigarh University (CU) in India, where they participated as resource speakers in the International Faculty Exchange Program (IFEP). The program aimed to foster academic collaboration and cultural exchange between the two universities.

The ISAT U faculty members who participated in the program on April 9 to 21, 2023 were Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr. – Vice President for Administration and Finance; Dr. Ramil G. Lumauag – ISAT U Dumangas Campus Administrator; Dr. Richard C. De Leon – Director, Research Services Division; and Dr. Renerio S. Mucas – Senior Researcher. During their stay at Chandigarh University, India, the faculty members shared their expertise in various fields, including research, engineering, and information technology. They also had the opportunity to learn about Indian culture and higher education practices in the region.

The International Faculty Exchange Program is a collaboration between Chandigarh University, ISAT U, and many more international cohorts around the world that sent delegations to share their time and expertise with the CU stakeholders. This mobility program is part of ISAT U’s efforts to enhance its internationalization agenda and promote academic excellence through collaboration with other institutions around the world.

 

 

– Jieza J. Napone, LPT

ISAT U conducts Student-Administration dialogue

Babelyn Cabalar

April 24, 2023 – Iloilo Science and Technology University through the Student Republic organized a student-administration dialogue. Select student leaders and representatives from the different colleges were invited to attend the said forum.

During his opening remarks, Dr. Raul F. Muyong stated that the main purpose of the activity is for the students not only to vent out their concerns and issues but also to listen to the best practices they have experienced in the duration of their stay in the university.

“I would like to commend the Student Republic for organizing this forum and always remember you students are the most important stakeholder of this Institution and we want to hear from you. We will do our best to listen and address your concerns but please do not just speak out your issues and concerns. We also would like to listen to the best practices that we are practicing here in our academe,” expressed Dr. Muyong.

The students complained mainly about the unbearable weather condition they are experiencing inside the classroom with heat index reaching as high as 43 degrees Celsius.

Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr., the VP for Administration and Finance gave assurance that there will be water dispensers to be installed in the different strategic locations inside the University as soon as the purchasing process is completed. The water will be free for all students for as long as they have their own tumblers.

Other concerns raised were the late submission of grades, dysfunctional locks of the comfort rooms, cafeteria schedule and possibility of opening a new cafeteria in the new site.

Mr. Rhyin Vincent Amalay, Chair, Student Discipline Committee served as the moderator of the consultation.

 

ISAT U gets 3-Star rating from 2023 Quacquarelli Symonds

Babelyn Cabalar

Quacquarelli Symonds Stars Ratings, most popularly known as QS Stars, is a rating system that delivers a thorough insight into an academic institution, enabling students, staff, and faculty to classify which universities are the best globally.

True to its vision as the “leading Science and Technology University in Southeast Asia by 2030”, and with the full support of the Commission on Higher Education and CHED International Affairs Service, Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) pursued the QS Stars Ratings and submitted all documents for audit in October 2022.

In order for ISAT U to get audited by the QS Stars Ratings Evaluation Committee, the University first had to create a core group that needed to oversee the data gathering and validating processes. It was a concerted effort from various offices and colleges in the university system. Of course, the ISAT U QS Stars Ratings team would not have made it through the daunting journey had it not been for the full support of the Commission on Higher Education led by Chair Dr. J Prospero E. De Vera III and the CHED International Affairs Service led by Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla. Gratitude also goes out to Dr. Christine N. Ferrer of Tarlac Agricultural University for her guidance.

The QS Stars Ratings system allows institutions to identify and improve on their areas of weakness, providing detailed assessments under each criterion. ISAT U has chosen the following criteria for audit: (1) Core Criteria – Teaching, Employability, and Internationalization; (2) Learning Environment – Online Learning, (3) Specialist Criteria – Program Strength, and (4) Advanced Criteria – Inclusiveness and Social Responsibility.

Under QS Stars, the institutions that display exceptional performance and quality standards are awarded a 5 Star rating. ISAT U has been awarded 3-Stars in the overall audit and received the following number of stars in the following individual criteria: 4-Stars for Teaching, 5-Stars for Employability, 1-Star for Internationalization, 5-Stars for Academic Development, 5-Stars for Online Learning, 3-Stars for Program Strength, 5-Stars for Social Responsibility, and 4-Stars in Inclusiveness.

The administration of ISAT U led by Dr. Raul F. Muyong – SUC President III, understands that schools are different from one another and therefore need to be assessed on a range of categories that recognize distinct strengths. So, with the grant coming from the Commission on Higher Education, ISAT U boldly went for the QS Stars audit which allowed the identification of strengths and weaknesses across a variety of areas. Results from the QS Stars Ratings encourage institutions to establish or improve their data collection culture and help them improve their long-term strategy and mission.

Awarded with 3-Stars that align ISAT U in the global roster of universities espousing quality and excellence in education, it is indisputable that this former Trade School has leveled up the playing field for higher education institutions in Western Visayas. Indeed, ISAT U continues teaching, touching, and transforming lives in the Philippines and beyond.

 

(c) Jieza J. Napone, LPT

Partners see progress in Iloilo Ground Receiving Station inaugural

Babelyn Cabalar

Department of Science and Technology, DOST – ASTI, Japan International Cooperation Agency, Iloilo Science and Technology University and LGU of Dumangas inaugurate the Iloilo Ground Receiving Station on Friday, March 10.

The ground receiving station facility is the only one in Western Visayas and the 3rd of its kind in the entire Philippines. DOST VI Regional Director Engr. Rowen Gelonga stressed that the GRS is a very important facility as space science technology has a lot of applications particularly on addressing the socio development requirements of the country as a whole.

DOST Undersecretary Leah J. Buendia likened the facility to “a bridge that connects us to the vast expanse of space.” Further showing the potential of the facility to drive science – based decisions on various levels of governance and sectors of the society.

Ground Receiving Stations (GRS) are built to collect and stream remote sensing satellite data to users. These data can be used for research and development activities and disaster risk reduction management among many others.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency also provided resources and expertise in the project. Mr. Sakamoto Takema, JICA Philippines Chief Representative underscored the continuous support of their organization in realizing this initiative and in many other projects that sought to improve the lives of the people.

ISAT U President Dr. Raul F. Muyong expressed his gratitude to all the partners who made the project possible. “The University is now working on a proposal to offer a Bachelor of Science in Meteorology Program in view of this project. We are also training and conducting benchmarking activities for our people to ensure the sustainability of this laudable endeavor.”

Dumangas Mayor Braeden John Biron and 4th District Board Member Rolly Distura also sang praises to the facility describing it as a step forward not only for the people of Dumangas but for all Filipinos.

The ‘Unveiling of the Inaugural Marker’ followed in the afternoon at the GRS site located at the ISAT U Dumangas Campus. A tour and a short lecture was also given by the personnel of the DOST – ASTI to guests and media partners.