ASCOT Wraps up 2024 with Milestones   December 23, 2024 – With Christmas just around the corner, the Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) faculty and staff came together for a heartfelt flag ceremony, hosted by the School of Information Technology.   ASCOT President Dr. Renato G. Reyes took a moment to reflect on the college’s achievements over the past year, highlighting the progress made possible through teamwork and unity. He also shared his hopes for what’s ahead, focusing on growth and meaningful change for the ASCOT community.   One exciting announcement was the funding from DOST Region III for ASCOT’s Solar Energy-Powered Food Processing project. Dr. Reyes explained how this project reflects the college’s commitment to sustainability and its goal of making a lasting impact on the community.   He also shared updates about the ASCOT Shelter initiative in Dinadiawan, Aurora. Recently, the team hosted a Christmas celebration there, not just to provide necessities but to help rebuild lives and livelihoods. “Kapag tayo’y tumutulong, sikapin nating ito’y maging transformative—hindi lamang basta bigay, kundi tulong na magpapaangat at muling mag-aayos ng kanilang kabuhayan,” he said, emphasizing the importance of meaningful support.   Another highlight was ASCOT’s big win in the GreenMetric rankings, where the college placed 54th. This recognition reflects ASCOT’s dedication to sustainability and serves as a launchpad for its internationalization efforts. Dr. Reyes encouraged faculty to take on global opportunities like scholarships, saying, “Huwag magdalawang-isip kumuha ng international scholarship—malaki ang maitutulong nito sa paggawa at pag-publish ng mga publication. Do something in your field so you can see the world.”   As the ceremony wrapped up, Dr. Reyes left everyone with a simple but powerful reminder: “This Christmas and holiday season is the perfect time to reflect on our actions this year, to grow as individuals, and to inspire others for the betterment of our community.”   With that, the ASCOT community closed their final Monday flag ceremony of 2024, ready to welcome the new year with hope and determination.   #ASCOT2024

The Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) joined the 2024 Freedom of Information (FOI) Bootcamp held from December 10 to 12, 2024, Sequoia Hotel, Paranaque.   The FOI Bootcamp aimed to equip newly designated FOI officers from various agencies with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively implement the FOI program. Participants engaged in discussions on key topics, including updates on Executive Order No. 2, s. 2016, which institutionalizes transparency in public service. The training also covered essential policies, the use of the Electronic FOI (eFOI) Portal, and the proper management of FOI requests and requirements.   Representing ASCOT were Atty. Karl Thomas M. Olivar, Head of the Legal Unit and designated FOI Decision Maker, alongside Associate Professor III Von Gerald D. Macos, MIT; FOI Receiving Officer. This participation highlights ASCOT’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement, further strengthening its capacity to uphold the principles of open governance and ensure efficient public service delivery.   #ASCOT2024 #FOI #FOIBootcamp

December 18, 2024, ASCOT Gymnasium, Zabali Campus – The Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) held a year-end assembly for its Contract of Service (COS) and Job Order (JO) personnel to review achievements, address challenges, and outline plans as the first semester came to a close.   Led by Dr. Ma. Luz F. Cabatan, Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA); Engr. Oscar C. Barawid, Jr., PhD, Vice President for Administration, Planning, and Finance (VPAPF); and Ms. Maria Veronica M. Dulay, Head of the Human Resource Management Unit (HRMO), the event highlighted institutional updates and efforts toward becoming a university.   A key moment was the announcement of a 20% premium incentive for COS and JO personnel, reflecting ASCOT’s commitment to equitable compensation and effective utilization of savings. “This incentive is the result of our collective efforts, reminding us that teamwork and dedication lead to rewarding outcomes,” VPAPF Engr. Barawid said.   VPAA Dr. Cabatan emphasized the importance of collective dedication in ASCOT’s pursuit of universityhood and encouraged personnel to apply for scholarships for professional growth. She also addressed infrastructure challenges, announcing plans to adjust class schedules to mitigate the shortage of classrooms and laboratory facilities.   The HR Department reminded COS and JO personnel to submit intent for renewal and re-application by December 27, 2024, to ensure continuity in operations.   #ASCOT2024 #Incentives #Universityhood

During the Monday flag-raising ceremony at the General Education Building, Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) President Dr. Renato G. Reyes delivered a message emphasizing unity and service, as the institution continues its efforts to aid Sitio Bolos in Dinadiawan, Dipaculao, Aurora, following the devastation caused by Typhoon Pepito.   Dr. Reyes highlighted the importance of ASCOT’s ongoing Dinadiawan Shelter Project, which has become a symbol of the college’s dedication to public service.   He expressed gratitude to the volunteers who have tirelessly assisted in relief efforts over the past three Saturdays, stating, “Pasalamat sa mga volunteers. Sa Dipaculao, kita mo ang devastation. Babalik tayo. Magtayo ng ASCOT Shelter—kanlungan kung saan dadalhin natin ang teknolohiya at tulong sa lugar na iyon.”   The president described the shelter as a convergence hub where ASCOT’s schools can bring their expertise to serve the community. He outlined specific roles:   Forestry for reforestation initiatives. Agriculture for animal and crop production. Industrial Technology for livelihood programs. Hospitality Management for health, sanitation, and tourism development. Engineering for water resource solutions. Information Technology for establishing internet connectivity. Education for teaching young children.   “We are sincere in our actions. This shelter will be a place where ASCOT’s experts come together to make a real impact. Hindi ito paligsahan o pasiklaban—concerted efforts ang kailangan,” Reyes emphasized, calling for unity among all units and schools. Dr. Reyes also addressed the values ASCOT upholds, urging the community to live with simplicity and dignity in their service to others. “Mamuhay tayo nang simple ngunit may dangal habang naglilingkod sa bayan.” To embody these principles, key officials have initiated campus cleaning drives and waived their one month RATA (Representation and Transportation Allowance) to contribute to the typhoon relief efforts.   The college president also shared updates on his ongoing mushroom production research, a project he envisions presenting by March internationally to showcase ASCOT’s innovative contributions. “I am excited to generate new learnings through this experiment. I want to bring ASCOT to the world..We need young faculty members who are ready to be mentored. You will lead ASCOT in the future.” he said. The ceremony concluded with a renewed call for action and unity, as ASCOT continues to uphold its dual mission of academic excellence and public service.   #ASCOT2024