The celebration kicked off on September 8 with a thanksgiving mass officiated by Fr. Rex Fedelicio held at the Our Lady of Good Voyage Parish in Lapaz. It was then followed by an opening program featuring the rich history of the institution and its present trailblazing efforts. Day 1 ended with a Mathematics and Science Quiz Bowl in the afternoon.

Dr. Raul F. Muyong, the university president, gave emphasis that though the pandemic brought many changes and challenges in the educational landscape, the University will continue to thrive and remain relevant in the post-COVID scenario through the collective efforts of every member of the educational community in sustaining the culture of excellence.

“The whole ISATU community must wholeheartedly commit to a vision that stretches us to surpass ourselves and work together by imbibing and sustaining a culture of excellence in everything that we do,” said Dr. Muyong during his opening message.

The usual week-long celebration was reduced to three days but nonetheless showcased a number of virtual spectacles that generated thousands of Facebook and YouTube engagements as per report.  On September 9, day 2, the ISAT University Gender Center in partnership with the Alumni Affairs and Relations office presented a webinar on “Fostering Mental Health at Home” which featured veteran actress Sharon Buencamino as one of the resource persons.

On the same day, The ISAT U KWADRA TBI, the technology business incubator of the University also conducted virtual sessions with emphasis on start – ups, design thinking, pitching and incubation among others.

The last day of the event started with the digital design competition which displayed the creativity, skill and innovativeness of students in graphic and digital designs. It was then followed by the highly anticipated “Tradeans Got Voice” singing contest with participants coming from all across the system. The celebration culminated on September 10 with the University giving tribute to the retirees, loyalty and posthumous awardees.

All virtual activities were officially streamed live at the ISAT U – Public Information and Communication Office (PICO) official Facebook page and YouTube channel.

“This occasion remarks the success of our university in sustaining excellence in culture through nurturing skills and development throughout the years. We are very thankful that we have the benevolent support system coming from our students, faculty, staff and stakeholders. This celebration would not be possible without the hard work and commitment of every individual that dedicated so much for the success of this event,” Dr. Gabriel Salistre said during his closing message.

The theme for this year’s celebration is “ISAT U at 116th: Sustaining the Culture of Excellence in Higher Education in the New Normal.” Dr. Tracy Tacuban, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) spearheaded the event together with the different committees created for the purpose.

Happy Anniversary to the entire ISAT U family! Mabuhay!