March 21, 2025 – Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) President Dr. Renato G. Reyes led a courtesy visit to the newly appointed Chairperson of the ASCOT Board of Trustees (BOT), CHED Commissioner Desiderio Apag III, at the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Office in Diliman, Quezon City.

During their meeting, Commissioner Apag III shared his first impressions of ASCOT, acknowledging its strategic location, promising agricultural and marine-related programs, and its potential for greater recognition in higher education. He noted ASCOT’s aspiration to become a university and emphasized the opportunity to align its academic offerings with global and national educational goals.

The discussion also highlighted key priorities, including curriculum innovation, strengthening research initiatives, and enhancing the institution’s niche programs in I.T., Agriculture, Forestry, Hospitality Management, Education, Accountancy, Industrial Technology and Engineering. Commissioner Apag III stressed that technology and interdisciplinary research should be embedded in ASCOT’s academic direction, underscoring the need for smart and digital advancements.

He also assured the ASCOT faculty, students, and staff of his support, saying:
“I am open to listening to your needs. My goal as Chairperson of the Board is to ensure a conducive learning environment for students while providing faculty and staff with opportunities for growth.”

ASCOT reaffirmed the institution’s dedication to curriculum innovation, ensuring programs that not only strengthen local expertise but also appeal to international students and global academic partnerships. “By continuously enhancing our academic offerings, we aim to produce globally competitive graduates while staying true to our mission of empowering communities and driving sustainable development,” Pres. Reyes stated.

Following the courtesy visit, CHED Commissioner Apag III officially presided over his first ASCOT Board of Trustees Meeting at the CHED Office. Present at the courtesy meeting were ASCOT BOT Secretary V. Joseph T. Gonzales, Faculty Association Representative, Hon. Jocelyn H. Diaz, PhD., ASCOT Alumni Representative Hon. Casper T. Ortiz, and Student Representative, Hon. Janelle O. Baldonade.

As ASCOT continues to elevate its academic standards and institutional performance, Commissioner Apag III emphasized a collective effort in achieving ASCOT’s vision for the coming years. “It should be a collective effort—everyone is a key player in attaining our goals,” he remarked.