September 23, 2024 – Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) held its weekly flag-raising ceremony, led by the Office of the President and the Information Unit. In his speech, ASCOT President Dr. Renato G. Reyes highlighted several key events and accomplishments from the past week, as well as upcoming initiatives for the college.He began by expressing pride in ASCOT’s recent recognition through the Gawad Pasasalamat sa mga Kabalikat sa Pangisdaan Award. This honor reflects the institution’s active involvement in supporting the local fishing industry, demonstrating ASCOT’s commitment to community development.
Additionally, he shared that they attended the recent board meeting, and the the budget hearing in Congress. Congressman Rommel Angara has pledged infrastructure funding for the college, which will be used to construct new classrooms and a ballroom for hosting various activities. He also emphasized the continuous improvements at ASCOT, including the planned establishment of an Aurora Studies Center at Ermita Hill.
He announced that this month is Scholarship Month, encouraging students to apply for available scholarships. He stressed the importance of personal and professional development, urging faculty members with PhDs to pursue postdoctoral studies as part of ASCOT’s goal of internationalization.
Another milestone mentioned was the establishment of the Oriental Fermentation Research Center, which is located at the Office of the President, marking ASCOT’s advancement in research and development.
Dr. Reyes expressed gratitude to NSTP students for their contributions in maintaining the campus, reminding everyone of the importance of preserving the institution’s physical environment.
He shared that during his weekend walk near the School of Engineering, Dr. Reyes spotted a balinsasayaw bird, known for its edible nests used in soup. He encouraged the School of Forestry to conduct research on the species, particularly comparing the balinsasayaw found in Aurora to those in El Nido, highlighting its ecological and economic significance.
He recognized the ongoing improvements at ASCOT’s Bazal campus facilities, despite limited resources. He acknowledged the General Services Unit’s efforts and announced a ?3 million budget from the Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI) for the Swine Recovery Project in Bazal.
Before concluding the program, HRMU head Maria Veronica Martinez announced ASCOT personnel who excelled in the 124th Civil Service Month celebrations. Melanie Aboy from the Information Unit won 2nd prize in the Photography Contest, while the ASCOT Zumba Team placed 3rd in the Zumba Contest.