December 7, 2024 – The Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) has launched its transformative ASCOT Shelter initiative, with Sitio Bulos, Barangay Dinadiawan, Dipaculao, Aurora, as its pioneering site. This project, designed to adopt and uplift barangays in need, focuses on providing sustainable aid and long-term development support. Dinadiawan, devastated by Super Typhoon Pepito on November 17, 2024, is the first community to benefit from this initiative.   The ASCOT Shelter serves as a hub “where relief, innovation, expertise and partnership converge.” ASCOT President Dr. Renato G. Reyes emphasized the significance of the project, saying:   “In Dipaculao, you can see the devastation. We must be sincere with our actions. This is not a one-time effort. We will return, and we will build the ASCOT Shelter—a haven where technology, collaboration and expertise are brought directly to the community. This will be the place where all ASCOT experts and their partners converge to make a difference.”   Dr. Reyes expressed gratitude to the volunteers who continue to dedicate their time and skills, stating, “I’ve seen automatic volunteers step in without hesitation, embodying the spirit of service ASCOT upholds. We’re not here to show off; we’re here to uplift.”   Through the initiative of the ASCOT Administration supported by VP for Administration, Planning and Finance Dr. Oscar C. Barawid and VP for Academic Affairs MaLuz F. Cabatan and with the support and assistance of the ASCOT School of Engineering, General Services Unit and other Schools and offices the ASCOT Shelter aims to provide sustainable and efficient solutions for long-term disaster relief until the community recovers and rebuilds.   The ASCOT community team will be present every Saturday at this makeshift hall, which will serve as a techno and social center for families, provide “Saturday school” to children, and distribute clothes and toys. In the spirit of the upcoming holiday season, ASCOT plans to conduct a special Christmas party for the children in Sitio Bulos, Dinadiawan. This event will include activities such as gift-giving, storytelling, and festive games, bringing some joy and normalcy to the young ones affected by the disaster.   How to Contribute: To support the relief efforts, ASCOT is accepting contributions from those who wish to help. Donations of toys, clothing, educational materials, food, medicines and monetary contributions are welcome. Those interested in donating or volunteering can contact:   Dr. OSCAR C. BARAWID Jr. ASCOT Vice President for Administration, Planning and Finance   Dr. ALMA S. BAYUDAN Director, Office of Students Affairs and Services   Local leaders have worked hand in hand with ASCOT to ensure the smooth distribution of aid, and the community’s active participation is crucial to the success of this initiative. This project is a testament to ASCOT’s commitment to fostering resilience and supporting long-term recovery in Dinadiawan and beyond.                                    

The Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) proudly marked the successful culmination of its Cash for Work program on November 26, 2024, providing 403 students and graduates with valuable work experience and skills essential for their future careers. Of the 403 beneficiaries, 218 were deployed across ASCOT’s various units, offices, and schools, while 185 were assigned to agencies across Aurora Province. Through this partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the program allowed participants to earn while gaining hands-on experience in professional environments.   Ms. Jhulia Marie Reyes, one of the beneficiaries, shared her positive experience: “Isang masayang experience po ang mapasama sa beneficiary ng Cash for Work. Kung tutuusin, after po ng graduation ay nabakante lamang ako ng labing-apat na araw. Pero dahil sa Cash for Work, nagkaroon po ako agad ng experience sa trabaho. Masaya po na may natututunan ka na, kumikita ka pa.” Other beneficiaries also highlighted how the program impacted their lives. Mr. Ricky Mark V. Matinog is currently applying at the Local Government Unit of Baler, while Mr. Mc Genkist Garcia used his earnings to prepare for the Licensure Exam for Teachers. These stories underscore the program’s role in bridging the gap between education and employment.   Notably, ASCOT absorbed 8 program beneficiaries as Job Order Employees, showcasing how the initiative has created pathways to more stable employment opportunities.   Dr. Alma Bayudan, head of ASCOT’s Student Affairs Services, emphasized the importance of the program during the culmination ceremony: “Bagama’t hindi pangmatagalan ang Cash for Work, ito ay mahalagang hakbang tungo sa mas magandang kinabukasan. Ang karanasang nakuha ninyo rito ay magsisilbing pundasyon para sa inyong mga darating na trabaho at mas malalaking oportunidad.” The event was graced by key representatives, including Ms. Arlene D. Flores from the Department of Labor and Employment Aurora, Mr. Francis Paul L. Valiente from DSWD Regional Office III, and Mr. Clyde Jerome Cunanan, representing ASCOT President Dr. Renato G. Reyes. While the Cash for Work program may be temporary, its impact on the beneficiaries is enduring. By equipping participants with real-world experience and skills, ASCOT reaffirms its commitment to empowering its students and graduates to excel in their chosen paths. #ascot2024

December 4, 2024, Zabali, Baler – The Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT), in collaboration with the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) – Crop Research and Production Support Division, hosted a consultative meeting to develop a comprehensive roadmap for the mushroom industry. This initiative aims to address industry challenges and promote sustainable mushroom production as a key agricultural enterprise in the Philippines. ASCOT President Renato G. Reyes said, “We must nurture what we have, present it to the world, and inspire others to adapt. Let’s incorporate nutrient-sensitive mushroom farming for climate resilience and food security.” Dr. Reyes also discussed key initiatives, including the creation of a mushroom production calendar, mapping industry activities, establishing rural mushroom-based enterprises, and introducing mechanized farming solutions.   The meeting also focused on Research and Innovation, emphasizing the enhancement of tissue culture collaboration, the advancement of nutrient-sensitive farming techniques, and the utilization of AI-driven technologies for science-based production. For Global Exposure, Dr. Reyes proposed the idea of an International Mushroom Congress to motivate local growers and connect them to global markets.   Representing the BPI, OIC-Assistant Chief for Operations and DA-National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program Coordinator, Mr. Carl Vincent D. Gapasin, outlined the bureau’s efforts in genetic conservation, crop production interventions, and protective structures for high-value crops like mushrooms. These initiatives aim to empower mushroom growers and enhance the industry’s potential as a sustainable protein source.   The ASCOT team included Vice Presidents Dr. Ma Luz F. Cabatan and Dr. Oscar C. Barawid, along with Directors Dr. Ricardo Gonzales and Dr. Alking Gorospe. Also in attendance were School of Agricultural Sciences Instructors Rica Napoles and Chenie Bibon, and Information Officer III Diana de Mesa-Amazona.   Moving Forward The meeting concluded with a call to action to form a task force to consolidate ideas into a comprehensive working paper. ASCOT and BPI are committed to a collaborative approach, aiming to transform the mushroom industry into a sustainable, resilient, and globally competitive sector.   #ASCOT2024

November 30, 2024, Brgy. Dinadiawan, Dipaculao, Aurora – Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) continues to uphold its commitment to service through its D.R.E.A.M Core Values: Dependability, Responsiveness, Empathy, Adaptability, and Mindfulness. Led by President Dr. Renato G. Reyes, ASCOT continues its mission to assist communities severely impacted by Super Typhoon Pepito PH.   In Brgy. Dinadiawan alone, over 1,450 families were affected, with homes damaged and livelihoods disrupted, leaving many dependent on relief efforts. According tothe SK Chairman of the barangay, Mr. Charl Lexber Espanñol, “Sa ayuda na lang po talaga ngayon lahat umaasa.”painting a picture of the dire situation in the area.   This weekend, ASCOT extended its support to around 200 families in Upper Bolos, where the college has constructed a “make shift hall for the upcoming ASCOT activities such as literacy program, feeding program, training activities, and other related activities.” (VP Barawid, 2024) Children were served hot meals and given activity kits, offering moments of joy amid the challenges, especially as classes remain suspended due to the complete destruction of their school. Families also received food packs and clean drinking water. Despite these efforts, urgent needs persist, particularly water for babies and elders and roofing materialsfor homes that remain heavily damaged. Faculty and staff from the School of Engineering and the General Services Unit (GSU) led the construction. Simultaneously, the Research and Extension Offices, together with GAD and other unit heads, conducted community interviews to better understand the challenges. Residents shared, “Kailangan po talaga namin ito. [relief packs] Sira po ang mga pananim naming niyog at saging.” “Hanggang ngayon po, ginagawan po ng paraan ‘yung nasira at wala ng bubong na aming bahay.”   ASCOT’s Supreme Student Council (SCSC) launched a donation drive for clothing and other necessities. In place of their usual December activities, student leaders redirected their efforts to support typhoon victims.   Meanwhile, VP for Administration, Planning, and Finance, Engr. Oscar C. Barawid, mobilized additional help by inviting his high school batchmates from Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College (formerly Our Lady of the Sacred Academy). Representatives of Batch ’93, including Philip Emmanuel Galapon, Bernardo Nocum, and Jon Jon Castro, joined the relief efforts and brought food packs and clean water for affected families.   Despite these efforts, communication in the area remains a challenge due to lack of signal, making it difficult to coordinate directly with sitios. Residents and volunteers are encouraged to visit the Barangay Hall to share information on which areas still need assistance.   ASCOT also made sure that its students from DICADI, who were affected by the typhoon, were sent home to check on their families. For other ASCOTians who wish to visit their loved ones, they may coordinate with Ms. Alma Bayudan, SAS Director.   President Reyes assures that ASCOT will continue to extend help, guided by its core values of compassion and service, as the community works together to rise from this disaster.   #ASCOT2024

November 22, 2024- The Paradise of the Pacific, our beloved Aurora, is now a landscape of devastation. Two towns lie in ruin, countless residents struggling to recover. The weight of Super Typhoon #PepitoPH is heavy, and the pain is overwhelming.   Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) key officials recently visited ASCOT Casiguran campus to check on students and deliver relief supplies, especially since communication signals remain unreliable. Along the way, the team witnessed the typhoon’s massive destruction firsthand.   The towns of Dipaculao and Dinalungan bore the heaviest damage—it was truly heartbreaking to see their condition. I remember Barangay Dinadiawan in Dipaculao as a place I always looked forward to visiting, but now it’s unrecognizable. Coconut trees, either uprooted or left barren with closed leaves, signal that they may soon wither. The once lush greenery defining the area has disappeared, leaving it like a ghost town.   Resorts suffered significant damage, with shattered windows and roofs blown off. Fallen electrical wires and transformers lined the streets, further highlighting the storm’s wrath. Being a coastal area, the contrast was striking: white sand on one side, mud-filled roads on the other, and mountains once green now reduced to bare rock, with trees either cut down or fallen.   Some of our team members in the car couldn’t hold back their tears upon seeing the extent of the destruction.   One local resident shared their harrowing experience:   “Hindi na namin alam kung saan nanggagaling ang tubig. Umabot ng leeg. Akala ko mamamatay na ako.”   The destruction is overwhelming, but the spirit of bayanihan and hope remains strong. We also met Mayor Danny Tolentino of Dipaculao, along with his team and barangay captains. While they remained steadfast, the toll of the past days was evident on their faces.   Recovering from such devastation will require strategic and meaningful efforts. The damage to livelihoods and infrastructure is extensive: Farming. Restoring agricultural activities will take time, as coconut trees and other crops need years to regrow and become productive again. Resorts. Rebuilding tourism establishments will require significant investments, possibly running into millions of pesos, to reconstruct and repair facilities. Fishing. Many fishing boats were destroyed and need replacement. Providing larger, sturdier boats could better support the community in rebuilding their livelihoods. Schools. The destruction of educational facilities raises concerns about the safety and learning of children. Rehabilitating schools is essential to allow parents to focus on rebuilding their own livelihoods, knowing their children are secure.   ASCOT’s leadership has proposed impactful initiatives, including adopting barangays, sponsoring home renovations, and providing larger fishing vessels. One community development officer also suggested assisting hotel owners in reopening their establishments to revive tourism and create jobs. These efforts go beyond immediate relief—they represent investments in hope, dignity, and the future of these communities.   For those willing to help, every contribution counts in rebuilding lives and restoring these areas. Let us come together to aid Dipaculao and Dinalungan in rising from this tragedy.   by: Diana de Mesa-Amazona Information Officer III/ ASCOT DRRMO Officer

November 22, 2024 – At Aurora State College of Technology’s (ASCOT) Casiguran campus, students gathered for the distribution of much-needed relief goods.   Following the devastation wrought by Super Typhoon Pepito, ASCOT’s key officials visited to extend aid and deliver messages of encouragement and resilience.   Dr. Renato G. Reyes, ASCOT President, underscored the importance of rising above adversity: “Sa mga pangyayaring ganito, hindi dapat tumigil ang mundo o magmukmok na parang wala nang mangyayari. Kailangang lumaban at bumangon.”   Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Luz F. Cabatan emphasized the role of education in recovery and empowerment: “Ngayon nakita natin ang sitwasyon, mas kaya nating pumasok kumpara sa iba na walang school. Mag-coaching at mentoring para maging licensed agriculturist kayo.”   Students Affairs and Services Director Dr. Alma Bayudan encouraged students to contribute actively to recovery efforts: “Hindi muna tayo mag-conduct ng other activities. Bilang student leaders, gamitin natin ang lakas para tumulong—maglinis, magtanim. Maraming buildings ang tinatayo; in return, pangalagaan natin ang ating property.”   Vice President for Administration and Finance Engr. Oscar C. Barawid shared plans to install solar panels on campus to ensure a stable power supply:   “We will also put solar panels here in the campus para wala na rin brownout.”   Information Officer III and DRRMO Director Diana de Mesa-Amazona reminded everyone of the importance of maximizing available resources despite challenges:   “Even without electricity or internet, we can still do many productive things at home and in school. Let’s also use what we see online to help us make informed decisions, especially about safety, and remember to spread kindness online.”   The visit highlighted empathy and the collective spirit of sacrifice. Dr. Reyes urged the community to prioritize helping those in greater need:   “Kapag nagsakripisyo kayo, nagmamahal kayo. Huwag maging makasarili, dahil mayroon mas nangangailangan.” President Reyes also shared his vision for academic excellence:   “Ang pangarap ko, 100% passing rate sa board exams [Agriculture]. Lahat maging lisensyado.” The day’s efforts extended beyond Casiguran, as relief goods from ASCOT and Governor Reynante Tolentino were delivered to typhoon victims in Dinadiawan. The 91st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army also provided vehicle and manpower assistance, ensuring the aid reached those in need.   Local residents shared their harrowing experiences, highlighting the typhoon’s unprecedented impact: “Sa tagal ko na rito, ngayon ko lang nakita ang ganitong bagyo. Umabot ng leeg ang tubig,” one resident recounted, reflecting the extent of the devastation in the area.   With hope, empathy, and determination, ASCOT leaders and students are committed to rebuilding not only their community but also the lives of those impacted by the typhoon.   #Ascot2024 #labanatbangon #PepitoPH

Baler, Aurora, November 20, 2024 – The ASCOT Alumni Association quickly stepped up to support students staying in the dormitories who were heavily affected by Typhoon Pepito. These students, who hail from the DICADI (Dinalungan, Casiguran, Dilasag) area, have been unable to contact their families as communication lines remain down due to the storm’s aftermath.   The relief drive provided much-needed food and essentials to help the students get by while waiting for updates on their hometowns. “Naubos na po namin mga papaya,” shared one student. The papayas growing around the dormitories, which were also damaged by the storm, became their go-to source of food in the meantime.   ASCOT President Casper J. Ortiz, a native of Casiguran, personally expressed his commitment to helping those in need. “Naranasan ko rin noon na bingayo kami dito [sa dorm] Taga Casiguran din ako, hahirap [ka]pag wala na makain kaya gusto natin ipakita na tumutulong tayo sa kapwa natin ASCOTian,” he shared.   Typhoon Pepito caused severe damage in the DICADI area, disrupting lives and critical infrastructure. In true bayanihan spirit, the ASCOT community continues to explore ways to extend support to affected students and their families.   “Malaking tulong po ang natanggap naming suporta mula sa ASCOT Alumni Association. Salamat po sa inyong malasakit sa aming mga estudyante.” – Hannah Carpio, 1st year student shared.   For those who wish to lend a helping hand, you may contact the ASCOT Alumni Association. https://www.facebook.com/ASCOTAlumniAssociation   Cheska Cate Victorio – 09703462809 Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a big difference.   #ASCOT2024 #PepitoPH #reliefefforts #ascotalumni

November 19, 2024 – After its recent visit to Indonesia, the Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) continues to make waves internationally. This time, ASCOT joined forces with SEAMEO BIOTROP (Southeast Asian Regional Centre for Tropical Biology) and Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES) to co-organize the Regional Workshop-Training on Artificial Lake Management Part 2: Sustainable Environmental Management of Marginal Lands and Coastal Areas. Held via Zoom, the workshop brought together experts and participants to tackle some of today’s most pressing environmental issues.   ASCOT President Dr. Renato G. Reyes kicked things off with a keynote address, highlighting the role of education and research in solving global environmental problems. Representing ASCOT on the panel was Assistant Professor Mr. Marco De Guzman, MSc, who gave an insightful talk on managing coastal areas sustainably (Blue Carbon) and protecting ecosystems.   “Cooperation and Coordination. Once there is better cooperation among stakeholders, it will lead to a harmonious mechanism for the sustainable management of our coastal resources.” Mr. De Guzman shared.   The workshop focused on equipping participants with tools and strategies to address challenges like pollution, climate change, and the impact of human activities on freshwater ecosystems. It also pushed for collaboration and knowledge-sharing to develop practical, scalable solutions to protect our water resources.   ASCOT’s involvement in this international event shows its commitment to sustainability and its goal of building strong global partnerships. By actively participating in initiatives like this, ASCOT is proving that it’s not just a leader in research and innovation here at home—it’s making a mark on the global stage too.   #ASCOT2024 #CoastalManagement #SDG13 #ClimateAction #SDG17 #ParternshipfortheGoals

November 11, 2024- In addition to presenting their research, the ASCOT delegation had the opportunity to meet with Prof. Yutaka Kaizu from the University of Tokyo’s Department of Biological and Mechanical Engineering. The meeting focused on exploring potential collaborations between ASCOT and the prestigious university, further strengthening ASCOT’s international ties and commitment to advancing agricultural research and development. The delegation was led by both Vice Presidents of the college, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ma Luz F. Cabatan, and Vice President for Administration, Planning, and Finance Engr. Oscar C. Barawid, along with the Director of the Research and Development Office Dr. Alking B. Gorospe, PhD, and faculty-researchers Dr. Dina DC. Lim, Chenie Mae T. Bibon, Jomer B. Mangawang, and Mark Angelo E. Diaz, PhD.   #ASCOT2024

November 15, 2024 – Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) faculty-researchers delivered oral presentations on their research at the International Society for Southeast Asian Agricultural Sciences (ISSAAS)-JSTA International Congress, held on November 9-10 at the Tokyo University of Agriculture, Japan.   The delegation was led by both Vice Presidents of the college, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ma Luz F. Cabatan, and Vice President for Administration, Planning, and Finance Engr. Oscar C. Barawid, along with the Director of the Research and Development Office Dr. Alking B. Gorospe, PhD, and faculty-researchers Dina DC. Lim, Chenie Mae T. Bibon, Jomer B. Mangawang, and Mark Angelo E. Diaz, PhD.   This year’s theme, “ISSAAS in 2024 and Beyond: Agricultural Science for Sustainable Development in Southeast Asia,” highlighted the importance of agricultural innovation for sustainable development in the region.   Dina DC. Lim, Associate Professor at ASCOT, presented her research titled “Exploring the Potentials of Pigmented Rice Farming in the Lowland Areas.” This study, co-authored with VPAA Dr. Ma Luz F. Cabatan is about the baseline information about pigmented rice farming in the province Aurora.   Chenie Mae T. Bibon, Assistant Professor I, presented her research titled “Integrated Weed Strategies for Direct-Seeded and Transplanted Pigmented Rice Variety in Aurora, Philippines.” on the following day. This study, co-authored by Dr. Ma Luz F. Cabatan, Maribelle A. Soriano, and Jomer B. Mangawang, delved into innovative weed management strategies for pigmented rice cultivation. Also, Assistant Professor I Jomer B. Mangawang presented his research titled “Physicochemical and Organoleptic Evaluation of Indigenous Pigmented Rice Varieties in Aurora, Philippines,” co-authored with Maribelle A. Soriano and Dr. Cabatan. The study focused on evaluating the unique characteristics of indigenous pigmented rice, emphasizing its potential in contributing to food security and sustainable agriculture in the region.   These three studies are a testament to the dedication and expertise of ASCOT’s faculty and researchers in advancing agricultural science. Meanwhile,VP Barawid presented the research titled “Innovative Mechanized Coconut Climber, Enhancing Emasculation, Pollination, Harvesting, and Hybridization” The said research co authored with, Alking B. Gorospe, PhD, Director of Research and Development Office, and Mark Angelo E. Diaz, PhD; Instructor III at School of Engineering, offers transformative potential for the coconut industry, particularly in enhancing processes like emasculation, pollination, harvesting, and hybridization. It also showcased a mechanized device designed to streamline coconut farming processes, a valuable contribution to coconut production efficiency and sustainability.   ASCOT’s participation in the ISSAAS Congress highlights its commitment to internationalization, showcasing its research capacity and reinforcing its role in shaping global agricultural sustainability and resilience.   #ASCOT2024 #SDG2 #ZeroHunger #SDG17 #PartnershipfortheGoals