January 10, 2025 – A momentous occasion unfolded at Aurora State College of Technology with the official inauguration of the Aurora Studies Center! Led by ASCOT President Dr. Renato G. Reyes, ASCOT officials, representatives from government agencies, and civic organizations celebrated this milestone at Bulwagang Sen. Edgardo J. Angara Upper Deck, ASCOT Zabali Campus, Baler.   Headed by Ms. Melisa Grace P. Nacino and supported by a team of committed ASCOT faculty and staff—Ms. Malou C. Angara, Ms. Amparo A. Espinosa, Ms. Rona N. Cacanindin, Mr. Emil Noveno, Mr. John Aldwin Olivar, Ms. Kimberley Macalood, and Mr. Jimboy Peralta—the Center aims to preserve the province’s rich cultural heritage while integrating research, innovation, and technological advancements.     #ascot2025 #aurorastudiescenter #CultureAndHeritage      

January 7-8, 2025 – the Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) organized a two-day workshop which aimed at enhancing the professionalism and ethical conduct of its security personnel. Key topics were discussed, starting with Professional Conduct Training, led by Maria Veronica M. Dulay, Head of the Human Resource Management Unit. The session focused on the duties and responsibilities of security personnel, emphasizing the importance of respectful and professional interaction with ASCOT employees and students.   A Stress and Conflict Management Workshop facilitated by Ms. Amparo Roberta A. Espinosa, Director of the Gender and Development Unit, underscored the inevitability of stress in daily tasks. Strategies to mitigate its negative effects were shared, fostering a healthier work environment for security personnel.   The third significant topic was Gender Sensitivity and Violence Prevention Training, facilitated by Ms. Malou C. Angara, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, and facilitated by Ms. Espinosa on the second day. This session highlighted the importance of inclusivity and respect in fostering a safer and more harmonious workplace.   Vice President for Administration, Planning, and Finance, Engr. Oscar C. Barawid Jr., PhD, and Dr. Gerardo Rillon delivered inspiring messages, urging participants to approach their roles with seriousness and commitment. They emphasized the vital responsibility of ensuring the safety of ASCOT’s community and protecting its facilities. “Nandito ang ating mga security personnel upang masiguro ang kaligtasan at kaayusan sa paaralan. Protektado nila ang ating kagamitan, paligid, at mga empleyado, ngunit higit sa lahat, ang kaligtasan ng mga mag-aaral. Tandaan, kung wala ang mga mag-aaral, wala rin tayo dito sa ASCOT”, VP Barawid said.   SG II Mario B. Andres, Chief of the ASCOT Security Force, expressed gratitude during his closing remarks, noting the significant impact of the workshop on their professional growth. Participants received certificates of participation to mark the conclusion of the program. This training underscores ASCOT’s commitment to the continuous career development of its personnel, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to uphold the institution’s standards of safety and professionalism.   #ASCOT2025 #SDG16 #PeaceJustice&StrongInstitutions

January 6, 2025 – the Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) hosted a visit from the Center for Central Luzon Studies (CCLS) of Central Luzon State University (CLSU). Led by Dr. Melanie P. Tolentino, head of CCLS, the group engaged in productive discussions to explore potential partnerships.  ASCOT President Dr. Renato G. Reyes provided mentoring on strengthening the positionality of the CCLS in regional studies focused on culture, heritage, and rural communities. Dr. Melanie Tolentino and selected faculty and research staff from CCLS joined the discussions, alongside Melissa Grace P. Nacino, Assistant Professor IV head of ASCOT’s Aurora Studies Center.  The meeting centered on collaborative research and extension activities that highlight the social anthropological characteristics of Central Luzon and Aurora Province. These efforts aim to integrate science and technology innovations led by CLSU and ASCOT to benefit local communities.  This partnership underscores ASCOT’s commitment to advancing studies that preserve cultural heritage and address rural development. Through collaboration, both institutions hope to drive impactful initiatives that connect academic research with real-world applications.  #ASCOT2025 #SDG4 #QualityEducation  #SDG17 #Partnershipforthegoals   

January 3, 2025 – Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) warmly welcomed Ms. Bettizza Escueta of King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT), Bangkok, Thailand, during her visit to the Office of the President today.   Ms. Escueta presented KMUTT’s university brochure and outlined potential benchmarking opportunities that ASCOT can explore in 2025.   These initiatives aim to foster academic growth, research collaborations, and institutional development, emphasizing the value of international partnerships in enhancing educational standards.   Key ASCOT officials present during the visit included President Renato G. Reyes, Dr. Ma. Luz F. Cabatan (Vice President for Academic Affairs), Engr. Oscar C. Barawid, PhD, (Vice President for Administration, Planning and Finance) Mr. Joseph T. Gonzales (Board Secretary V), Atty. Karl Thomas D. Oivar (Legal Officer), Ret. Professor Silvestre C. Escueta, and Diana Rose P. de Mesa-Amazona (Information Officer 3).   With this initiative, ASCOT takes another step forward in its mission to provide high-quality education and strengthen its ties with esteemed institutions like KMUTT.   The visit concluded with both parties expressing optimism for a future collaboration that will benefit students, faculty, and staff alike.   #ASCOT2025                    

Catherine A. Salazar, instructor at the Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) School of Education, proudly represented the institution at the Thailand-Philippine Bilateral Graduate Student Research Forum. The prestigious event was held from November 22 to 25, 2024, at Kasetsart University in Bangkok, Thailand.Salazar presented her research paper titled “Implications to Educational Management of Attitude and Practices Related to Technological Change: The Case of Philippine Basic Education.” The study explores the technological behavior of school heads and teachers, as well as the current planning and implementation practices related to technological changes in Philippine basic education. Using a mixed-method research design, the paper highlights how these behaviors and practices impact key areas of educational management such as equity, visionary planning, system design, leadership, and connected learning.Sharing her experience, she described her meticulous preparation for the forum. “I familiarized myself with the details of the event and chose research that fits with the theme. I thoroughly reviewed my data and research findings and crafted a structured presentation. I anticipated and prepared for possible questions about my research. Rehearsing the delivery also helped to ensure smooth presentation.”Salazar also expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to present her work internationally. “It was a humbling experience to learn from education and research experts from Thailand and from fellow Filipinos from other SUCs in the Philippines. At the same time, it feels like a golden opportunity to sustain current professional linkages and create future collaborations for my professional development and for ASCOT-School of Education.”ASCOT’s participation on this kind of activity highlights dedication to excellence, innovation, and internationalization by enhancing faculty development, building partnerships, and showcasing the college’s global research contributions.#ASCOT2024 #Research #Internationalization.Photo credits to Ms. Catherine A. Salazar

Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) participants showcased their exceptional talent in a heartfelt mini-concert for their fellow ASCOTians after returning from the Culture and the Arts Association of State Universities and Colleges (CAASUC III) 2024 Festival, held last November at Bulacan State University.   Initially scheduled before the CAASUC III competition, the concert was postponed due to November’s typhoons but finally took place on December 20, 2024, showcasing ASCOT’s captivating performances from the prestigious event.   The evening was a vibrant showcase of cultural dances, vocals, artistry and different performances, all embodying the theme “Pagtitipon” (Gathering). These performances not only highlighted the immense talent of ASCOT’s delegates but also celebrated the resilience and unity of the college community.   “This mini-concert is our way of sharing the immense pride and joy we experienced during CAASUC III with our fellow ASCOTians,” expressed performers Trexcy Mae Pio and Lia Briney Mostoles. “Our intention was to bring the experience home and ensure that everyone feels part of the journey.”   Beyond the artistry, the event served as a celebration of ASCOT’s achievements at the festival, where the delegation competed across various categories, showcasing their creativity and cultural excellence.   “This event is not just about performing; it is also about expressing our gratitude for the unwavering support we received from the ASCOT community,” shared Mr. Joshua D. Dela Cruz, ASCOT’s Socio-Cultural Coordinator.   The audience, composed of students, faculty, and staff, was filled with pride and admiration as they watched the performers bring the stage to life with their passion and dedication.   It was an evening of connection, creativity, and celebration—a true testament to the spirit of “Pagtitipon.”   Aldyn Djinon Lucas – (photography participant-CAASUC 2024)   #ASCOT2025 #PAGTITIPON #SDG4QualityEducation