Philippine Ambassador to Turkey, His Excellency Henry S. Benturo paid a special visit to the Philippine booth at the 9th Eurasia Higher Education Summit (EURIE) on Wednesday to confer with the delegation of university heads and education officials showcasing the nation’s advancements.

Ambassador Benturo engaged in a brief dialogue and photo opportunity with Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairperson J. Prospero E. De Vera III, Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr. and other leaders representing the Philippines during EURIE’s exhibit hall hours.

The envoy was given an overview on priorities for the Philippine contingent by Chair De Vera, including driving international linkages, enhancing employability programs, and commitment to the internationalization agenda of the Commission.

Ambassador Benturo then captured a short video statement highlighting the high-level participation of the Philippines at this globally esteemed education summit. He congratulated the leaders for outstanding representation of the country’s quality higher education ecosystem.

Over 5 days, EURIE gathered university presidents, professors, and policy advisers across Eurasia and beyond to confer on key trends, best practices and reforms shaping the future of higher education, research, and innovation worldwide.

The three-day CEA Days Celebration with a theme, “CEA Maspinabaskog: Transcending boundaries between fields of expertise, acknowledging potential domination in other life’s dimensions,” buzzed with excitement as students and faculty members alike prepared for a whirlwind of activities that showcased the talents and camaraderie within the College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA), on February 26-28, 2024.

With Philippine Mythology as its banner theme, the festivities kicked off with an adrenaline-pumping Cheer Dance Competition and followed by sports events. Teams from different departments competed fiercely in basketball, volleyball, sepak takraw, lawn and table tennis, badminton, and combative sports. Spectators cheered enthusiastically from the sidelines, adding to the electric atmosphere as players displayed their skills and sportsmanship.

The Mechanical Engineering (ME) department won the championship title for the 8th consecutive time, with a total of 140 medals, out of which 83 were gold, 35 were silver, and 22 were bronze. The Electrical Engineering (EE) Department secured the 1st runner-up position, winning 45 golds, 8 silvers, and 39 bronzes. The Civil Engineering (CE) department came in 2nd runner-up, with a total of 102 medals, composed of 36 golds, 35 silvers, and 31 bronzes. The Architecture department clutched 3^rd runner-up and received a total of 123 medals, with 33 golds, 65 silvers, and 25 bronzes. The Electronics Engineering (ECE) department was ranked 4th runner-up, with a total of 80 medals, 14 of which are gold, 25 silvers, and 41 bronzes.

Amidst the athletic fervor, the literary and musical contest brought a different flavor to the celebration on the 2nd-day event. Students poured their creativity into extemporaneous speaking, masining na pagkukuwento, radio drama, vocal solo (classical and pop), vocal duet, folkdance and hip-hop competitions, captivating the audience with their words, melodies and performances. The stage became a platform for artistic expression, highlighting the diverse talents within the CEA community.

One of the highlights of the celebration was the eagerly anticipated Mr. and Ms. CEA 2024 and Mr. and Ms. Pahampang 2024 pageant. Crowned as Mr. and Ms CEA Pahampang 2024 are Adrian Sumagaysay of Mechanical Engineering (ME) department, and Jana Sofia Lamparero of the Civil Engineering (CE) Department.

The laurel wreath of Mr. and Ms. CEA 2024 was given to John Kenneth Banate of the Department of Electronics Engineering (ECE) and Pearl Amad of ME, showcasing their poise and charisma, the audience was treated to a dazzling display of talent and charm.

Beyond the competitions and performances, the CEA Days Celebration fostered a sense of unity and belonging among students and faculty. It provided a platform for individuals to come together, celebrate their achievements, and forge lasting friendships and memories. Whether through cheering on teammates in sports events, applauding performers on stage, or supporting contestants in the pageant, everyone played a part in making the celebration a resounding success

The three-day extravaganza had brought the CEA community closer together, fostering bonds that would endure long after the celebration had ended. With hearts full of pride and memories to cherish, students and faculty bid farewell to another successful CEA Days Celebration, eagerly looking forward to the next opportunity to come together and celebrate as one CEA.

Article by: Engr. Adrian L. Pillano

ISAT University Public Information and Communications Office conducted a Strategic Planning and Professional Development Boot Camp at St. Vincent Cottages Resort in Boracay, Aklan from February 22-24, 2024. PICO Coordinators attended to learn about essential disciplines including basic journalism, content marketing, social media security awareness, photojournalism, and drone technology.

Coordinators were provided with comprehensive learning and skill-building experience, guided by ISAT U PICO experts. The curriculum was diverse, covering both theoretical insights and hands-on practical sessions, ensuring them to gain actionable strategies and valuable experience.

Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Russ Allen B. Napud presented the strategic planning and team building where the coordinators refined constructive information and plan for the university, especially the information and communications development.

During the boot camp, Dr. Olive Joy G. Abing, Chief of Publications, and Ms. Lucille P. Jaspe, PICO Information Officer III, focused on basic journalism. PICO Coordinators learned the fundamental principles of basic digital journalism, news and headline writing, and journalistic ethics.

 PICO Information Officer II Ms, Jovette Aimee B. Arceta discussed content marketing, Coordinators delved into strategies for creating compelling and engaging content across various digital platforms. From crafting persuasive copy to leveraging multimedia elements, coordinators gained insights into driving audience engagement and building a brand presence in an increasingly competitive digital landscape.

With the proliferation of social media platforms, cybersecurity awareness has become paramount. The boot camp dedicated sessions to raising awareness about social media security risks and best practices for protecting personal and organizational data in an online environment. These were discussed and presented by Mr. Rommel Griffith P. Habaradas, PICO Information Officer I.

During the discussion, Mr. Reynaldo H. Ilangos, PICO Head for Creatives, highlighted the opportunity for photojournalism. The coordinators led practical exercises and provided constructive feedback to help participants learn techniques for capturing powerful images that convey compelling narratives and evoke emotional responses. This learning experience took place at Puka Beach.

As the sun set on the final day of the boot camp, the participants left Boracay with new knowledge, inspiration, and a network of like-minded professionals. The success of the Strategic Planning and Professional Development Boot Camp highlighted ISAT University’s dedication to nurturing talent and encouraging innovation in the field of communication and journalism. With plans in motion for future editions of the event, ISAT U PICO is ready to continue empowering professionals with the skills and expertise needed to thrive in the ever-changing media landscape.