The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), under the leadership of President Dr. Nordy D. Siason, Jr., joins the 2024 PASUC National Convention and General Assembly at the SMX Convention Center Manila in Pasay City. The convention, themed “Advancing Competitiveness of SUCs for National Development,” runs from today, July 15, to Wednesday, July 17, and gathers leaders from 113 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) across the nation.
Dr. Siason emphasized ISUFST’s commitment to the objectives of the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) and highlighted the alignment with the university’s own goals. “ISUFST fully supports PASUC’s vision of advancing the competitiveness of SUCs for national development. This commitment aligns with our own vision, mission, and guiding principles at ISUFST,” he said. Dr. Siason also pointed out that ISUFST’s participation in the convention demonstrates its dedication to fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration within the academic community.
Also in attendance on behalf of ISUFST are Dr. Johnny Dolor, Vice President for Administration and Finance, Dr. Liza Belandres, Dumangas Campus Administrator, and Dr. Edmer Bernardo, Director of the Planning and Development Office.
The event begins with an opening ceremony that will feature a processional of PASUC national officers, keynote speakers, and distinguished guests. Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, President of PASUC and Batangas State University, will formally open the convention. In the conference manual, he noted, “The theme of this year’s convention signifies our collective objectives of strengthening our SUCs as vital contributors to our nation’s growth.” Dr. Ronquillo further underscored the importance of this gathering as a platform for SUC leaders to share insights, discuss challenges, and develop strategies that will enhance the quality and competitiveness of higher education in the Philippines.
The keynote address will be delivered by Sen. Alan Peter S. Cayetano, Chairperson of the Committee on Higher, Technical, and Vocational Education in the 19th Congress, who is expected to underscore the importance of innovation and collaboration in achieving national development.
Day two of the convention will feature sessions on financing higher education, with a keynote speech by Hon. Ralph G. Recto, Secretary of the Department of Finance. He will discuss strategies for ensuring the quality and sustainability of SUCs. The day will also include a president’s report by Dr. Ronquillo and the election of PASUC national and regional officers.
In her message in the conference manual, Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management, Hon. Amenah F. Pangandaman, congratulated PASUC on its 57th Founding Anniversary and emphasized the vital role of SUCs. “This event highlights the crucial role of State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in shaping our nation’s future through quality education, innovative research, and community engagement,” she stated.
The convention will continue with various panel sessions focusing on quality assurance, health and wellness, research and innovation ecosystems, and the application of artificial intelligence in creating smart campuses. The event will conclude on July 17 with a synthesis and closing ceremony.
ISUFST’s active participation in the 2024 PASUC National Convention underscores its commitment to enhancing educational standards and contributing to national development, reflecting its vision of becoming a leading research university in Southeast Asia.
PASUC is an association of public tertiary school-level institutions in the Philippines. It comprises all 113 SUCs all over the country under the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). It holds its annual sports, literary, and musical competitions, which its members actively participate in.
(Text by Herman Lagon/Photos by Edmer Bernardo/PAMMCO)
