Archives for May 2025

Nine faculty members from Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) will proudly represent the Philippines in the upcoming 1st International Community Service (ICS) 2025, to be held from May 19 to 22 at Novotel Yogyakarta Malioboro, Indonesia.

The event, to be spearheaded by Universitas PGRI Semarang (UPGRIS) in collaboration with Universitas Negeri Jakarta, is expected to bring together educators and researchers from Malaysia, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, and the Philippines to foster academic engagement and enhance international collaboration in community service initiatives.

On the opening day, participating universities will present their institutional profiles. Representing ISAT U, Engr. Adrian Pillano is scheduled to showcase the university’s pioneering community outreach programs and technological innovations that uplift local communities. This session will aim to foster intercultural dialogue and lay the foundation for collaborative academic partnerships to address common regional challenges.

A major highlight of ICS 2025 will be the official launch of the Sustainable ICS Consortium, an initiative led by Prof. Dr. Mohammad Rize, Chairperson of the ICS 2025. The consortium will focus on developing long-term strategies for sustainable development through academic-community partnerships. ISAT U, with its strong track record in service-based research, is anticipated to be recognized for its valuable potential contributions to the consortium’s goals.

Another anticipated highlight is the Panel Session on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), where Dr. Cora Biton of ISAT U is expected to share the university’s role in assisting Filipino entrepreneurs. Her presentation will detail how ISAT U integrates research findings into community enterprises and provides technical support to enhance productivity—reflecting the university’s commitment to inclusive economic growth and the ICS vision of education as a tool for societal transformation.

On the second day, delegates will be divided into clusters for community immersions in Indonesian villages, including visits to BUMDES (village-owned enterprises), Pustaka Desa Wukirsari (village library), and SMPN 3 Imogiri. These visits will give participants a firsthand look at grassroots governance and educational systems in rural Indonesia.

Additional groups will participate in cultural and livelihood activities, such as Wedang Uwuh and herbal tea production, traditional Batik-making at Batik Giriloyo, and crafts including bamboo work, knitting, and WAYANG (puppet-making). Participants will also explore agricultural initiatives led by Kelompok Wanita Tani (Women’s Farmers Group) and observe local food production like Keripik Sagu, gaining insights into sustainable practices deeply rooted in community resilience and cultural heritage.

These interactions are expected to offer enriching experiences and spark discussions on possible joint research and community service initiatives among ASEAN countries and beyond, strengthening intercultural bonds and academic cooperation.

The third day of the event will feature a cultural tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Borobudur Temple. ISAT U faculty members will have the opportunity to admire the temple’s spiritual symbolism and architectural grandeur. The tour will also include visits to Punthuk Setumbu (Information Center) and a climb up 50 meters of sacred steps leading to the main temple complex. The day will continue with lunch at Svarga Bumi and a scenic Botswagen Safari through surrounding Borobudur villages. Stops will include Rengginan Bu Yatin for traditional pulot (or katen) making and Ashfa Madu’s souvenir shop near Kalyandra Hill. The tour will conclude with a group photo at Randu Alas and a cultural dinner at Jejuran, immersing participants in authentic Indonesian rural life.

Through this international engagement, ISAT U is expected to further strengthen its global academic linkages and reaffirm its leadership in sustainable, inclusive community service. Faculty delegates aim to return home inspired and equipped with new perspectives to enhance local programs that align with global development goals and regional solidarity.

ISAT U Members:
Engr. Adrian L. Pillano- CEA
Dr. Cora E. Biton – CIT
Dr. Iryn B. Delos Santos – COE
Mr. Andrew G. Falsis -CAS
Ms. Keith S. Guantero –LEON
Mr. Aaron Paul P. Puljanan – DUMANGAS
Dr. Medania T. Malagsic –MIAG-AO
Mr. Fritz Jason G. Monsale – MIAG-AO
Ms. Rennia Joy B. Obsiana- MIAG-AO

After ten years of becoming a university, Iloilo Science and Technology University commemorated its Charter Anniversary focusing on its accomplishments over the decade.

From Western Visayas College of Science and Technology, the institution was converted into Iloilo Science and Technology University on May 18, 2015. Exactly after 10 years, ISAT U showcased remarkable achievements on infrastructure development, dynamic academic programs, innovative research, competent faculty and exemplary graduates.

Ten days before the actual commemoration, the Public Information and Communications Office took the streets of Iloilo City and launched the “PAMUKAW” as part of its information drive for the Charter Anniversary celebration. Also, stories of memorable moments of students, alumni, faculty, and staff were simultaneously featured on social media.

Everyone’s excitement escalated as the opening program commenced on May 14 at the Festive Mall which was also the venue for the university exhibit. Different colleges, offices and external campuses showcased their products, academic programs, food, and students’ outputs. Technologies and other innovations were pitched and presented during the InnoScale: Technology Pitching and Business Matching which was participated by the faculty and attended by guests and partners from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry – Iloilo (PCCI-Iloilo), Department of Science and Technology Region VI (DOST VI), Iloilo Business Club, Iloilo Economic Development Foundation, Inc., Innovate Iloilo, and the Iloilo Government Industry and Academe Council (IGIAC). Meanwhile, sportsmanship, skills, and athleticism were tested also on the first day of the celebration, which gathered enthusiasts to join the sports events which took place simultaneously in ISAT U Barotac Nuevo and Dumangas campuses. Teaching and non-teaching personnel took time out and joined the basketball, badminton, volleyball, chess, and darts games.

The professional lecture attended by the faculty and staff of ISAT U Leon Campus, on the second day, May 15,  brought additional brewing knowledge and skills in preparing Robusta coffee. Mr. Ariel Lastica, a licensed Quality Robusta grader and the lead implementor of Pakiburak, gave insights into the coffee industry which is very timely for the campus which specializes agriculture. After the Professional Lecture, a field demonstration in ISAT U Miagao, showcased a vibrant celebration of electrifying movements and display of dedication and synchronization, a powerful expression of school unity and student excellence.

In its commitment to community service, the Extension Services Division headed the Blood Donation activity on May 16, with donors coming from the different campuses of the university. Along with this, they also led the group of faculty in the Mangrove Planting at Sunset Boulevard on May 17.

During the “Gabi ng Parangal,” which was the  highlight of the celebration, the Administration honored the hard work and dedication of the faculty and non-teaching personnel. In his speech, Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr., emphasized that no matter role they play in the university, each one is important and that they contribute to the success of the university. He also encouraged them to work with integrity and focus on the vision of ISAT U as their own. Meanwhile, the university also honored the remarkable achievements and contributions of its alumni during the Pasidungog 2025.

The celebration was concluded with the program “ISAT U Highlights” on May 18, 2025. This featured the university jingle, the enhanced video of the University Hymn and the relaunch of the university profile and University Tagline, “Innovating Tomorrow, Today.” A narrative of all the notable accomplishments and achievements of ISAT U over the last 10 years was also highlighted. Some of these achievements were on the field of research, infrastructure, board exam performance and academic programs which made an impact and put the university on the national map. Kudos ISAT U! Cheers to the next 10 years and beyond!