February 17, 2025 – Agta leaders Zyrah Dela Cruz, Municipal IPMR of Casiguran, and Jordan Dela Cruz, Chieftain of Agta Migrant, Brgy. Cozo, Casiguran, paid a courtesy visit to Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) President Dr. Renato G. Reyes to personally express their gratitude for the college’s continuous efforts in supporting the Indigenous Peoples (IP) community.

During the visit, Chieftain Jordan Dela Cruz shared his appreciation for the warm reception and ASCOT’s initiatives:

“Masaya po kami na nakausap si Pres. Isang malaking oportunidad ang ibinigay sa amin, lalo na’t ito’y bahagi ng plano ng Diyos. Isang magandang pagkakataon na maging bahagi ang buong Agta sa mga inisyatiba ng ASCOT. Masaya kami na makilala ang ASCOT, pati na rin sa pag-aalaga sa mga estudyante dito. Salamat po sa mabiyayang pagtanggap sa amin.”

Zyrah Dela Cruz also expressed admiration for ASCOT’s commitment to the IP community, saying:

“Maganda ang puso ng ASCOT na may panahon sa mga katutubo.”

She also noted that many ASCOT graduates are now working at the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), showcasing the success of the college’s educational programs in empowering Indigenous students.

The visit was facilitated by Dr. Antonio D. Bolivar III, Director of the Center for Indigenous Peoples Studies (Casiguran Campus), who has been actively working to strengthen ASCOT’s engagement with IP communities.

ASCOT has long been committed to fostering inclusivity through various programs that support IP students and their communities. This visit reaffirmed the strong partnership between ASCOT and the Agta people, paving the way for future collaborations in education and community development.