ISUFST marks 3rd year as university with purpose and panache

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Under one roof at the Dumangas Campus on Friday, Jan. 9, the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) community came together to celebrate its third university foundation anniversary—a full-day event that gathered students, faculty, staff, alumni, and partners from all five campuses.

More than a celebration, the day served as a moment to reflect on the university’s progress and the responsibility that comes with bearing the name “university,” just three years since its conversion.

A day that began with gratitude

The celebration opened with a Thanksgiving Mass at the Dumangas Campus Gymnasium, bringing the community together in prayer and reflection.

It was an expression of gratitude—and a reminder that true growth begins not with festivities, but with faith, humility, and shared purpose.

The solemn start helped shape the day’s tone, honoring visible achievements while acknowledging the unseen sacrifices, steady efforts, and perseverance that have propelled the university forward each year.

Grand convocation: Leadership, memory, and direction

The Grand Convocation followed, featuring the Processional of University Colors and Key Officials, the Philippine national anthem, and opening prayers.

The ISUFST Dumangas Chorale performed the University Hymn and Dumangas Hymn, filling the hall with emotion and resolve.

In his welcome remarks, Dr. Matthew T. Lasap, campus administrator of Dumangas Campus, underscored the university’s roots: “Our university rose from struggle, and education keeps our collective dreams alive.”

ISUFST President Dr. Nordy D. Siason Jr. reflected on the university’s path to its current status—one built on years of audits, compliance, documentation, and teamwork.

“We remember the hard, transformative days of our conversion, and we march forward with renewed purpose and promise,” Siason said, urging the community to honor past efforts while building a better future.

Vice presidents Dr. Stephen Raymund T. Jinon (Academic Affairs) and Dr. Jescel B. Bito-Onon (Administration and Finance) echoed that ISUFST’s progress stems from shared vision, quiet excellence, and systems aimed at long-term impact.

Key leaders and partners also offered messages of support.

Speaking on behalf of Rep. Ferjenel G. Biron, former Dumangas councilor Hon. Bryan D. Gumban emphasized the values behind learning: “True education fuses intelligence with character. As you navigate the future, may you lead with integrity and serve with heart.”

A heartfelt highlight of the convocation was the Honoring of ISUFST Retirees, recognizing individuals whose years of service helped build the foundation of the university.

Creative Synergy energizes the afternoon

The afternoon program transitioned into vibrant performances and competitions through Creative Synergy, which showcased campus pride and talent aligned with the theme “Navigating the Future with Purpose and Panache.”

Vocal Trio Pop: “The ISUFST Harmony”

This unique format, featuring faculty, staff, and students in each group, highlighted unity through music and performance.

Winners:

• Champion:ISUFST Main Campus – Tiwi Site
• First Runner-Up:ISUFST Main Campus – Poblacion Site
• Second Runner-Up:ISUFST Dumangas Campus

The audience responded enthusiastically to the mix of harmony, stage presence, and originality.

Creative Dance Drama: “Pulse of Purpose”

Using dance and storytelling, each campus interpreted ISUFST’s three-year journey, earning praise for emotional depth, unity, and artistic impact.

Winners:

• Champion:ISUFST Main Campus – Tiwi Site
• First Runner-Up:ISUFST Main Campus – Poblacion Site
• Second Runner-Up:ISUFST Dumangas Campus
• Third Runner-Up:ISUFST San Enrique Campus
• Fourth Runner-Up:ISUFST Dingle Campus

Judges evaluated entries based on theme interpretation, creativity, and teamwork.

Voyager’s Reel: Campus stories through video

Campus publications competed in the Voyager’s Reel video montage contest, showcasing institutional milestones, research, and daily life.

Winners:

• Champion:The Blaze Publication (ISUFST Dumangas)
• First Runner-Up:Golden Grains (ISUFST Dingle)
• Second Runner-Up:The Sea Treasure (ISUFST Tiwi)
• Consolation:The Clarion (Poblacion Main), The Igang (San Enrique)

During the awarding, Iloilo Vice Gov. Hon. Lee Ann F. Debuque praised ISUFST’s community: “The strength of ISUFST comes from unity and dedication. Every member of this community is part of the heritage we celebrate today.”

Three years on, still moving forward

Now three years into universityhood, ISUFST stands at the intersection of progress and purpose.

As the country’s only fisheries-focused university, it remains rooted in its mission: promoting food security, supporting coastal livelihoods, advancing sustainability, and delivering education that reaches beyond the classroom.

The third university foundation anniversary was more than a celebration of milestones.

It was a call to embody the values of integrity, social justice, discipline, and academic excellence in ways that matter.

As the day drew to a close, one truth lingered: ISUFST’s journey is far from over. It moves forward, guided by people who believe that real progress need not be loud—only shared, sincere, and purposeful. (Jen Gonzaga | Andrea Shane Suelo  | PAMMCO)