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June 20 2024

AACCUP re-accredits ISUFST’s Hospitality, Tourism Management Programs

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The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) has successfully secured the re-accreditation of its Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (Main and Dumangas Campuses) and the Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (Main Campus) degree programs following a survey conducted from March 25-27, 2024. The re-accreditation, granted by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP), is valid from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2028.

University President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr. expressed pride in the re-accreditation, highlighting it as a testament to ISUFST’s dedication to academic excellence. “This re-accreditation is a significant step towards realizing our vision of becoming a globally competitive institution. It reflects our commitment to providing high-quality education that meets international standards and prepares our students to excel in their respective fields,” said Dr. Siason.

Dean Ricardo Paborada, Jr. of the College of Management at the Main Campus added, “This re-accreditation reflects our continuous efforts to enhance our programs and facilities. We are committed to providing our students with the best possible education and preparing them for successful careers in the hospitality and tourism industries.”

Dean Michelle Pahayculay of Dumangas Campus also shared insights, stating, “Our dedication to excellence is evident in every aspect of our educational offerings. The re-accreditation process has reinforced our resolve to maintain and exceed these standards. We aim to equip our students with the skills and knowledge required to thrive in a global market.”

Additionally, the university recently received a letter of re-accreditation from AACCUP for its two graduate school doctoral programs. The letter confirmed the re-accreditation of the School of Graduate Studies (SGS) Ph.D. in Educational Management and Ph.D. in Educational Technology programs, following an assessment conducted from April 15 to 19, 2024. The validity of these programs extends from May 1, 2024, until April 30, 2028.

SGS Dean Stephen Jinon commented: “The re-accreditation of our Ph.D. programs in Educational Management and Educational Technology underscores our unwavering commitment to academic excellence. These programs are designed to produce leaders and innovators in education, and this recognition by AACCUP validates the quality of our offerings.”

These re-accreditations confirm the programs’ status as leading courses that equip students with the necessary skills for successful careers in hospitality, tourism, and postgraduate studies. This milestone demonstrates ISUFST’s ongoing commitment to fostering an environment of excellence, innovation, and global competitiveness. (Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)

June 14 2024

ISUFST leaders attend Times Higher Education Congress in Thailand

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Three top executives from Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) participated in the Times Higher Education Global Sustainable Development Congress in Bangkok, Thailand, from June 10 to 13, 2024. They were Dr. Joan Belga, VP of Academic Affairs; Dr. Johnny Dolor, VP of Administrative Affairs; and Dr. Jeanette G. Bayona, Director of the Office of International Affairs and Linkages.

The Times Higher Education Global Sustainable Development Congress serves as a platform for global collaboration, bringing together educational institutions and businesses. Its primary goal is to steer the focus toward tangible outcomes in education, research, innovation, and outreach initiatives that tackle sustainability issues.

ISUFST was part of the delegation of Philippine higher education institutions led by Commissioner Dr. Ethel Agnes P. Valenzuela and Atty. Lilly Milla, OIC Executive Director of CHED. This delegation provided a valuable opportunity to discuss with peers from various sectors, including higher education, government, and civil society. These discussions focused on collaborative leadership and implementing systemic reforms to expedite progress toward common sustainability objectives.

The insights gained from the congress are expected to directly target areas needing improvement in Philippine higher education institutions, particularly in global vision and research collaboration, as assessed by international ranking indicators. (Text and photos by Jeanette Bayona/PAMCO)

June 7 2024

ISUFST President Siason inspires WVSU Graduates as Commencement Speaker

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As the graduates of West Visayas State University (WVSU) gathered at the WVSU Cultural Center this past Thursday, June 6, they were met with not just the pomp and circumstance of their commencement exercises but also with powerful words from a distinguished alumnus, Dr. Nordy D. Siason, Jr. The ISUFST President, known for his journey from a simple barrio to a leading educational figure, delivered a 30-minute commencement speech that resonated deeply with the class of 2024, emphasizing the profound impact of “alkansiya” and “Scholarship for Service.”

Dr. Siason, who began his storied academic and professional journey at WVSU, has made significant strides in education. He marked his tenure with achievements like a 100% Certificate of Program Compliance for all programs at ISUFST and elevating the school to university status. His personal and professional narratives blend into a tapestry of resilience and commitment, characteristics he aimed to instill in the new graduates.

The theme of his speech, “alkansiya,” metaphorically represented the value of saving and passing on knowledge and experiences. Drawing on personal anecdotes from his youth and his rise through academic and professional ranks, Dr. Siason spoke candidly about the importance of character and competence. He argued that in the real world, “knowledge is useless, even dangerous, if not coupled with virtues.”

“Life has taught me that the true wealth of education is not measured by the money it brings, but by the lives it changes,” Dr. Siason expressed, emphasizing the transformative power of education. He challenged the graduates to apply their knowledge ethically and effectively to better themselves and society. He noted that true wisdom lies not just in acquiring knowledge but in using it for good, a sentiment that aligns with Theodore Roosevelt’s belief that “Knowledge without character is dangerous; character without knowledge is ineffective.”

Addressing graduates from various colleges, Dr. Siason tailored his message to fit the unique contributions each could make. He outlined how each graduate’s “Scholarship for Service” should manifest, urging them to use their skills to challenge the status quo, promote social justice, and innovate in ways that do not widen societal gaps.

Echoing the ideals of service, Dr. Siason reminded the graduates, “As you step out into the world, remember, it is not just your duty but your privilege to lift others as you climb. This is the essence of being a true-blue Taga-West.”

The message of “Scholarship for Service” resonated as Dr. Siason called on the graduates to strive for personal success and leverage their capabilities for the broader good of society. He reminded them that the true measure of their education’s value lies in their willingness and ability to serve those less privileged.

“Let your knowledge be a beacon of hope for the needy, a tool for building a more equitable society,” he urged passionately. “Today, you are bestowed with the mantle of leadership, to not only succeed in your fields but to be the vanguards of change and kindness.”

The graduates left the ceremony not just with degrees and medals but with a reinforced sense of purpose. Dr. Siason’s words, highlighting the intersection of personal achievement and societal contribution, set a lofty expectation: to be the best, kindest, and most responsible citizens they can be.

As WVSU continues to nurture future leaders, the lessons from Dr. Siason’s speech will likely echo through its halls, reminding students and faculty alike that education is not just about personal gain but about contributing to a larger community. The class of 2024 stands at the precipice of their futures, armed with knowledge, inspired by wisdom, and ready to enact the change Dr. Siason so compellingly advocated. (Text by Herman Lagon, photo by Edmer Bernardo/PAMCO)

May 31 2024

ISUFST leads the charge in Localizing SDGs; Women, Children Empowerment

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The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) successfully conducted the Localizing SDG, Women, and Children Empowerment Orientation and Briefing this Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at Park Inn by Radisson, Diversion Road, Mandurriao, Iloilo City. This day-long event attracted numerous representatives from the academe, provincial agencies, and local government units (LGUs) across Iloilo’s five congressional districts.

Academic participants included delegates from West Visayas State University, Iloilo Science and Technology University, Northern Iloilo State University, University of the Philippines Visayas, and University of San Agustin. Representatives from provincial agencies were predominantly from municipal social work, gender and development, and social planning departments. The Iloilo Provincial Government was also represented by its entire Technical Working Group (TWG) executives. Notable attendees included San Enrique Mayor Rosario Mediatrix Fernandez and Carles Mayor Siegfredo Betita.

The project aims to assess the local implementation of national policies on women and children, promote their rights, and position Iloilo as a Gender and Development Local Learning Hub. It focuses on generating baseline knowledge, improving and sustaining women’s and children’s welfare and rights, and integrating the SDGs into the curriculum and community engagement among local academics and leaders.

The morning was dedicated to discussing the initiative’s depth and breadth. In the afternoon, participants engaged in a workshop on identifying and collecting localized data, with inputs presented during the plenary session.

Ms. Alma Ravena, co-chairperson of the Provincial Gender and Development (GAD) Council and representative of Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., highlighted critical issues. “Three out of ten children can’t read,” she noted, underscoring the need for improved literacy and numeracy. She acknowledged the initiative’s support for creating safe spaces, addressing bullying in schools, and tackling teen pregnancy and health issues among young mothers. Ravena conveyed the provincial government’s full backing for ISUFST’s efforts, stating, “We will be backing you up.”

San Enrique Mayor Rosario Mediatrix Fernandez addressed the lack of empowerment among women, especially in less educated and remote families. “This is the time to make a more concerted effort. We must work for gender inclusivity and equality. If we create empowered women, we create empowered children and an empowered society,” she asserted.

Dr. Francisco Magno, the resource speaker and workshop facilitator, elaborated on the program’s outcomes and the importance of being globally aware and competitive while addressing local needs. He emphasized that targeting women and children ensures inclusive and sustainable societal progress.

ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr. expressed gratitude to the participants and experts from De La Salle University and the Office of Senator Risa Hontiveros, a prime supporter of the initiative. He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to sustaining the project, highlighting its relevance to local governance and social justice, a guiding principle of ISUFST. “This initiative underscores our dedication to fostering local partnerships and enhancing the welfare of women and children,” he said.

Workshop facilitator Prof. Eddie Nuque emphasized ISUFST’s role as a beacon of knowledge and action, committed to the SDGs and societal transformation. He stressed the value of participant involvement from LGUs and the academe. “Your participation is invaluable, as you know your locale best. The data you provide are crucial to the process,” he remarked.

Earlier this year, ISUFST held its inception meeting and planning session, marking the start of this significant research and extension collaborative effort among local stakeholders in Iloilo. (Text by Herman Lagon/Photos by Ricky Ramos/PAMCO)

July 5 2022

Dr. Siason launches presidential logo, tagline: Caring to Bridge, Bridging to Care

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Dr. Siason launches presidential logo,

tagline: Caring to Bridge, Bridging to Care

The symbolism.

The fishes in official ISCOF colors of yellow and blue represent the flagship program of the college, Bachelor of Science in Fisheries, awarded by CHED as a Center of Development. Yellow signifies hopes, aspirations, and a bright future, while blue signifies water and the promising sea. The logo in general is shaped like a heart, inclusive and indiscriminate of the men and women of ISCOF, and the community it serves. These caring men and women are in red, blue, yellow, and green, all official colors of the college, and each representing a campus among the system’s five. They are in different colors because of their diverse personalities and backgrounds, but linked as one by a black line that symbolizes the strong bond and loyalty among them, sharing the same mission and vision, and warmed by the same love for the institution, for the Ilonggo community, and for the whole nation. The words “Caring to Bridge and Bridging to Care” speak of BRIDGE- Building for Responsive Interventions for Dynamic Graduates through Education, in short building and nurturing instructional leaders who will then help students cross over from academic and skills training to actual Career Advancement and Readiness for Employment (CARE).

The story.

Guided by its mission to upgrade quality education, generate jobs, and alleviate poverty through excellent academic programs, ISCOF, under the presidency of Dr. Nordy Siason Jr., paves a more emphatic path to its mission of becoming a premiere academic institution in Southeast Asia: Caring to Bridge, Bridging to Care.

ISCOF will build and nurture instructional leaders who will in turn build and nurture their students as they cross over from the academe to the real world, contributing its share to the achievement of the International Sustainable Development Goals and the National and Regional Development Plans.

With Fortitude, Integrity, Scholarship, Humanity, Excellence, and Service, FISHES, as its core values, ISCOF cares to unite its stakeholders so as to better help the community it is mandated to serve. By inspiring each other to work as a team through hard but considerate work, the men and women of ISCOF see positive, cheerful collaboration as the means by which they can help bridge the gap between poverty and progress among their fellow Ilonggos.

Caring to Bridge and Bridging to Care also speaks of the special transitory phase ISCOF System is going through as it transitions from a state college to a state university with SUC President II Dr. Nordy Siason at the helm.

Concept by Dr. Nordy Siason, Art by Patrick Lance Nacion, and Story by Edmer Bernardo. May 2022.

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