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.