ISUFST empowers non-teaching staff through GRIT retreat

The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) successfully held its three-day training and reorientation program titled GRIT for Service 2025: A Training-Retreat Toward an Ethical, Resilient, and People-Centered Work Culture from July 16 to 18, 2025, at Almadria Highland Resort in Talisay City, Negros Occidental.

The retreat brought together 237 non-teaching staff, directors, faculty with administrative duties, and top administrators from ISUFST’s five campuses to reflect, realign, and renew their commitment to public service.

Organized by the Human Resource Management Office in partnership with the Gender and Development (GAD) Office, the retreat emphasized professional growth through values-based learning.

During a values integration workshop, ISUFST personnel explored how the university’s vision, mission, and core principles translate into everyday service.

Framed by Sustainable Development Goals—SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work), and SDG 16 (Strong Institutions)—the sessions grounded participants in GRIT values: growth, resilience, integrity, and teamwork.

“This retreat reflects what ISUFST truly stands for,” said University President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr.

“We don’t just aim to deliver quality service—we build a community that serves with humility, passion, integrity, and purpose. And our non-teaching staff are at the heart of that mission.”

The first day opened with a session by Fr. Joel Rojo-Eslabra, chaplain of WVSU Medical Center, who guided participants in reconnecting with their sense of purpose through the Japanese concept of ikigai.

“Service begins when we rediscover our reason for showing up each day,” he said.

He blended stories, video clips, and reflection exercises to encourage a values-driven outlook, reminding participants that meaningful service begins with care and compassion.

Later that day, Al Ian Barcelona, CEO-president of AIB Training and Consultancy Corporation, energized the room with his WAVE session: Works Acceleration and Value Empowerment.

He challenged staff to reframe their roles with joy and purpose.

The evening was capped by talent presentations from new staff members, which evolved into a lively celebration of creativity, unity, and campus pride.

Barcelona continued his session on Day 2, discussing the alignment of personal passions with institutional goals.

University physician Dr. Kharlie Joehn Hautea followed with a session on health and wellness in the workplace.

He emphasized that good service starts with physical and mental well-being.

Atty. Joey Mondero, ISUFST legal officer, revisited Republic Act No. 6713—the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees—and facilitated a lively Q&A on ethics and accountability.

The second evening featured the Search for Mr. and Miss Non-Teaching Staff 2025.

Mary Floren Arguez and Eli Gene Tisuela, both from the Tiwi Campus, were crowned winners.

Participants called the event a celebration of inclusivity, confidence, and the quiet strength that supports every department.

On the final day, Dr. Ma. Victoria Violanda, director of Student Affairs and Services at CHMSU, closed the retreat with a keynote on purpose-driven work and the value of lifelong learning.

Program lead Supervising Administrative Officer Alma P. Betito emphasized the retreat’s deeper mission.

“For us, this retreat is a heart-check. It is a reminder of why we do what we do,” she said.

“Our non-teaching staff are vital to the university’s heartbeat. Empowering them means enriching our entire system of service.”

GAD Director Dr. Lenirose Mondero added, “When we build an inclusive, reflective workplace, we don’t just boost morale—we strengthen the very foundation of the service we give to students and communities.”

She said making staff feel seen, valued, and purposeful drives real institutional growth.

Through a balance of expert-led sessions, team bonding, and honest reflection, GRIT for Service 2025 reaffirmed ISUFST’s mission to nurture ethical and resilient public servants.

The program also aligned with the university’s goal to integrate human resource development into institutional performance and to promote excellence through the PRAISE incentive system.

As the country’s first and only state university focused on fisheries science and technology, ISUFST continues to lead with heart—cultivating a culture where compassion, public service, and purpose go hand in hand. (Herman Lagon / Ricky Ramos / Edeline Joy Brito / PAMMCO)