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
ASCOT at the 2024 ISSAAS International Congress, Japan
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
Records of Dedication: Celebrating Dr. Tolentino’s Service at ASCOT
November 14, 2024 –Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) community paid a heartfelt tribute to Dr. Dolores Salvacion F. Tolentino for her almost 29 years of selfless service. It’s a journey that began right alongside ASCOT’s founding. “Ma’am Salva,” as she’s lovingly called by her colleagues and friends, was not just ASCOT’s first Records Officer; she became a mentor, a mental health advocate, and a pillar of the community. Her connection to ASCOT is unforgettable, as she actually celebrated her birthday on the groundbreaking day of the college—an amazing twist of fate that set the stage for the big role she would later play in ASCOT’s growth. When she first joined the college in 1995 as Administrative Officer V, Ma’am Salva didn’t just sit in the Records Office; she quickly found a place in the hearts of everyone she worked with. Through the years, she took on numerous roles, always with a heart full of dedication to the college and a deep concern for the well-being of students and faculty alike. Her passion for mental health made her a trusted voice not just within ASCOT, but across Aurora province. She led talks, workshops, and training sessions that made people more aware of the importance of mental health. Her knowledge, paired with her compassion, earned her the respect of many. The program opened with a message from Chief Administrative Officer Dr. Gerardo G. Rillon, who shared fond memories of working with Ma’am Salva and wished her well on the new path she is about to embark on. “We remember the joyful days spent with her,” he recalled, “and we wish her the best as she sets out on her next journey.” ASCOT President Dr. Renato Reyes also expressed his gratitude for her years of service and dedication. His message resonated with encouragement and faith: “Naniniwala ako sa salitang ‘destiny’—ang plano ng Panginoon para sa atin ng panginoon ang mananaig. Kailangan lang maging handa tayo sa anumang pagbabago. Lilipat ka sa PGA dahil kailangan doon iyong kakayahan. Mahal ka ang ASCOT at nandito lang ang ASCOT ang. para sa inyo. Good luck, at God bless!” As the ceremony continued, Dr. Tolentino’s closest friends at ASCOT shared heartfelt messages that highlighted her invaluable qualities as a friend, mentor, and even a maternal figure. Ms. Norma Barbasa reminisced, “Lagi nating sinasabi kahit pabiro lamang na sabay tayong magreretire dito sa ASCOT. Pero hindi ko inasahan ay ikaw ay aalis ng ASCOT. Ipagpatuloy mo ang iyong mga nasimulan sa ASCOT, ang iyong mga ginagawa at adbokasiya.” Ms. Mardelyn Barrogo also shared, “Si Salva ang gumawa ng paraan para makatapos ako ng master’s degree, siya rin ang tumulong sa akin para matapos ko ang aking thesis. Alam ko na magiging masaya ka sa magiging bago mong trabaho. Kung saan ka masaya, masaya na rin ako. Nandito lamang kaming mga kaibigan mo para sa iyo.” Ms. Zenaida Exclamado added her own tribute, saying, “Sa kabila ng mga pagsubok sa buhay na dinanas ni Salva, masasabi ko na isa siyang mabuting nanay. Siya ay napakabait na ka-opisina. Minsan lang ay matigas ang kanyang ulo.” Former ASCOT President Eutiquio L. Rotaquio, Jr., took the opportunity to recognize her significant role in the institution: “Siya ang nag-finalize ng ASCOT Strategic Plan, at bawat linggo, may imbitasyon mula sa iba’t ibang ahensya na humihingi ng kanyang kaalaman pagdating sa mental health concerns—ituloy mo lang, Ma’am Salva! Malaking tulong ang iyong adbokasiya. Maraming salamat at congratulations!” Colleagues from ASCOT, such as Forester Michelle Resueno, Glenda N. Gines, and Dr. Jay Amon spoke about how she inspired them both professionally and personally. Ms. Resueno shared, “Ako ang kauna-unahan niyang inaanak dito sa Aurora. Isa siyang life coach, manggagawang hindi napapagod, at isa sa mga empleyadong may pinakamaraming tungkulin. Sa dami ng kanyang ginagawa, ni minsan hindi namin siya narinig magreklamo. Laging masaya ang trabaho sa kanya, kahit gaano pa karami ang gawain.” Ms. Gines added,”Hindi matatawaran ang ambag ni Ma’am Salva—nakita ko ang kanyang dedikasyon sa bawat ginagawa niya. Ang dami kong natutunan tungkol sa mental health issues dahil sa kanya. Suportado ka namin, Ma’am, at good luck sa iyong journey!” Sir Jay, took a moment to spell out the qualities that define “Salva”—Sincere, Admiration of Love, Venture, Victory, and Accomplished. His description captured the essence of Dr. Tolentino’s character and the values she embodies. Additionally, ASCOT employees, KC Aguilar and her immediate staff member, Myra Curitana, shared their appreciation for Dr. Tolentino. “Bilib ako sa pagiging matatag at matapang ni Ma’am Salva. Sa kabila ng kanyang mga sakripisyo, hindi siya nawawalan ng mga words of wisdom. Lagi niya akong minomotivate. Tunay na biyaya siya ng Panginoon sa amin.”Curitana expressed. In an emotional moment, her two children Cedrick Kerstan and Ronn Cedric also expressed their gratitude to ASCOT for its support throughout her career, honoring her unwavering dedication and achievements. As the program concluded, Dr. Tolentino message of thanks, expressing her deep appreciation for ASCOT’s support and opportunities. She reflected on her accomplishments, including contributions to research and extension programs, her instrumental role in ASCOT’s Performance-Based Bonus, and her leadership in establishing the ASCOT Employees Association’s registration with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Civil Service Commission (CSC). She highlighted, “Mahal na mahal ko ang ASCOT! Maraming naging tagumpay ko ang dahil sa gabay at suporta ng institusyong ito. Isa na rin sa mga advocacy ko ang pagtutok sa mental health concerns at ang mentoring sa mga estudyanteng nangangailangan ng gabay. Kung hindi sa ASCOT, hindi ko mararating ang pagiging PhD graduate ko. Maraming, maraming salamat, ASCOT!” Now, as she moves on to the next chapter of her life, she leaves a remarkable legacy behind. Her nearly three decades of service have touched the lives of countless ASCOTians, and her work will continue to inspire the college she helped build. As she answers the call to serve in new ways, Dr. Tolentino’s spirit of dedication continue reading : Records of Dedication: Celebrating Dr. Tolentino’s Service at ASCOT
ASCOT Students Develop AI App for Local Flora Protection
November 6, 2024 – ASCOT President Renato G. Reyes extended his research expertise to a group of fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Information Technology students. The team, composed of Mart Angelo G. Martinez, John Rold P. Arcala, Jorgie Mae O. Julian, and Rona Mae Bongon, is currently working on a unique project combining Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. “Presenting our Capstone project to the College President makes us feel both excited and nervous. The president’s feedback on our project, which is about Herbal Image Recognition, means a lot to us for he showed us an overwhelming support. We believe this project could have a positive impact on the college, and we see this as an important step in progressing to our study” Ms. Julian said. Under the guidance of Associate Professor III Von Gerald D. Macose, the group’s project focuses on promoting local flora conservation by creating a mobile application that provides accessible information on herbal plants. This mobile technology aims to localize knowledge about herbal plants, making it easily available for community members and researchers in the area. Mr. Macose highlighted, “This humble project is our contribution to the conservation and promotion of Aurora’s local flora. These young groups are inspired to use their talents well for the community, and I am proud of them. We are hoping that we can scale up this project to other applications, and that that other young groups of innovators can take inspiration from them. ASCOT’s collaboration with its students highlights the college’s dedication to hands-on, real-world education. By utilizing cutting-edge technology, students gain essential skills and develop a strong sense of community responsibility for preserving local biodiversity. #ASCOT2024 #SDG4 #QualityEducation #SDG5 #LifeonLand
ASCOT Moot Court Team Represents at Commission on Human Rights
November 13, 2024 – The Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) College of Law Moot Court and Debate Society participated in the 3rd Inter-Law School Human Rights Debate Tournament, which took place on November 9-10, 2024, at the main office of the Commission on Human Rights. The event was organized by the Commission on Human Rights Institute and brought together 10 college law schools across the country. ASCOT College of Law, led by Dean Atty. Raquel R. Dujunco, CPA, CMA, REB, assisted in preparing and training the team for the event, with support from other law students and professors. On her Facebook post, Atty. Dujunco, shared her pride in the school’s participation in the 3rd Inter-Law School Human Rights Debate Tournament. She expressed that, beyond wins and losses, she was most impressed by the team’s resilience, especially after a tough first day, as they quickly bounced back to end the competition on a high note. Atty. Dujunco highlighted the teamwork and support from fellow law students, especially the upper-years who helped train the team, and thanked the faculty and sponsors for their unwavering support. The ASCOT Law School team included Mr. Aaron Casalio, Ms. Louise Ann Sotero, and Mr. Jose Paman, with Ms. Stefanie Morales serving as the alternate oralist. The competition provided an opportunity for law students to engage in debates focused on human rights issues and showcase their skills in moot court proceedings. #ASCOT2024 #SDG16 #PeaceJusticeandStrongInstitutions #SDG4 #QualityEducation #ASCOTCollegeofLaw#ASCOTMootCourtandDebatesSociety Credits to the real owner of the pictures.
ASCOT NSTP Empowers Future Leaders
November 9, 2024 – The National Service Training Program (NSTP) at ASCOT continues every Saturday, with Ms. Diana Rose P. de Mesa-Amazona, ASCOT’s Information Officer III and Director of the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO), serving as one of the key resource persons. She was a guest at the “Youth Matters: Reinstating the Role of the Youth in Advocating Gender Equality and Nation Building” event, organized by the ASCOT NSTP Office under Ms. Norma T. Barbasa. The seminar gathered first year ASCOT students eager to learn and contribute to nation-building efforts. During her talk, Ms. Amazona engaged the audience with an interactive question-and-answer portion, offering exciting prizes to encourage participation. She shared valuable insights on how information dissemination through social media platforms can help promote safety and resilience. Additionally, she inspired students to volunteer and get involved in DRRMO activities, emphasizing that women can also lead impactful initiatives. Running from September 1 to November 23, 2024, the “Youth Matters” seminar series has covered crucial topics such as Stress Management, the Role of Youth in Promoting Peace, Volunteerism, and Environmental Awareness. These discussions aim to equip young individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become active contributors to a resilient and peaceful society. #ASCOT2024 #YouthMatters Photo credits to ASCOT DRRMO
ASCOT Participates in DOST-SEI Twinning Camp for STEM Educators
November 12, 2024 – Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) recently participated in the Department of Science and Technology’s Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) Twinning CAMP: Capacitating and Monitoring Program, held in collaboration with the Science Teacher Academy for the Regions (STAR’s). The event took place from November 8 to 10, 2024, at the City Garden Grand Hotel in Makati City. The three-day seminar brought together Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) educators from across the Philippines to foster professional growth, knowledge sharing, and community-building. Mr. Jaypee M. Nuñez from ASCOT School of Engineering expressed his gratitude on the benefits of the seminar, “The DOST-SEI STAR Twinning Camp helped me understand the challenges and trends in STEAM/STEM education, connect with inspiring educators, and experience the value of mentorship. It was an unforgettable journey of growth, and I hope DOST-SEI continues offering programs like this.” The program focused on empowering teachers through the exchange of best practices in teaching, research, and extension activities, while also providing a platform for networking and collaboration between schools and universities. “Joining the DOST-SEI STAR Twinning Camp deepened my understanding of local and global STEM challenges. Engaging with our twinning partner school and exploring mentorship through the Mentee’s Playbook was enriching. I’m honored to contribute to this project, helping shape a more innovative future in education,” said Mr. Luis Philip A. Postor. Seven schools from six regions participated, including ASCOT, represented by faculty other members Ms. Nikita Paola A. Del Mundo, Ms. Maxie A. Marte, Mr. Alfredo C. Padios Jr., Mr. Neil B. Montero, Mr. Christian M. Santiago, and Mr. Jhon Marc C. Ganzon. Credits to the rightful owner of the photos. #ASCOT2024 #SDG4 #QualityEducation
ASCOT Flag Raising Ceremony l November 12, 2024
The Aurora State College of Technology gathered for a flag raising, a hopeful sight after the recent onslaught of Typhoon Nika on November 11. The clear, calm weather felt especially fitting, bringing a fresh start for everyone involved. ASCOT held decentralized flag-raising ceremonies across various campus locations. The School of Engineering and the School of Industrial Technology led their ceremonies, while the School of Information Technology facilitated the ceremony at the General Education Building. Administrative personnel also held their ceremony, and ASCOT President Renato Reyes led the raising at his office. #ASCOT2024
ASCOT President Dr. Renato G. Reyes Maintains #1 Ranking in Philippine Mycology Research
Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) proudly celebrates the sustained accomplishments of its President, Dr. Renato G. Reyes, who remains the top-ranked Mycologist in the Philippines as per the latest AD Scientific Index 2025—a global ranking that assesses the impact and productivity of researchers based on citations and academic influence. The AD Scientific Index is a respected global benchmarking system that evaluates researchers across 22 major fields and 254 subfields, including Mycology, Mushroom Science, and Mushroom Biotechnology. The Index ranks researchers by their productivity and impact, calculating indices such as total citations, H-Index, and i10-Index. In the Philippines, ASCOTPresident Reyes continues to hold the #1 spot, further solidifying his influence in the field. His work also resonates internationally; he is ranked #28 in Asia and #63 in the world for Mycology, demonstrating significant contributions to the fields of mushroom science and biotechnology. President Reyes’s research performance is highlighted by his i10 Index (publications with at least ten citations), where he holds 61 publications, ranking him at #1 in the Philippines. His contributions are further reflected in his total citation count of 1,700, with 1,130 of these in the last six years. These figures speak to his sustained research relevance and the growing recognition of his work. ASCOT takes pride in President Reyes’s accomplishments, which not only elevate the College but also advance the field of Mycology and mushroom biotechnology in the Philippines and beyond. His ongoing dedication to research excellence and innovation reflects ASCOT’s mission to inspire, innovate, and lead in the sciences and beyond. So proud of you, Pres!
ASCOT Awards Stipends to 331 CHED TDP Grantees
November 7, 2024 – Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT), Baler, Aurora Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) celebrated the awarding of stipends to 331 CHED Tulong Dunong Program (TDP) grantees for the second semester of the 2023-2024 academic year. The ceremony, held at the ASCOT Hostel, saw grantees receiving their checks with the support of Congressman Romel Rico T. Angara, who joined other distinguished community guests in acknowledging the students’ achievements. ASCOT President Dr. Renato G. Reyes expressed his appreciation for the TDP’s support, emphasizing the program’s positive impact on ASCOTians’ academic success. He encouraged alumni to participate in the ASCOT Tracer Study, an initiative to trace the career paths and contributions of ASCOT graduates. “By participating, you’ll help us highlight the journeys of our alumni and further enhance support for current students,” Dr. Reyes shared. Congressman Angara, the event’s inspirational speaker, urged students to embrace every step of their academic journey and make the most of the opportunities ahead. The event, organized by the Scholarship Unit led by Ms. Alma Bayudan, was a testament to ASCOT’s ongoing commitment to supporting its students and strengthening its ties with the community. “We are grateful for the trust they have placed in us, at patuloy tayo sa paghahanap at pagbibigay ng serbisyo na makakuha ng scholarships ang mga bata,” Ms. Bayudan said. The awarding ceremony underscored ASCOT’s commitment to educational empowerment, student success, and the valuable partnerships with CHED and community leaders. #ASCOT2024 #TulongDunongProgram #ASCOTTracerStudy #SupportForEducation
ASCOT Germplasm Project Advances
November 7, 2024 — ASCOT President Dr. Renato G. Reyes convened with representatives from the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), DENR CENRO Dingalan, the Provincial Agriculturist’s Office, and Barangay Bazal to discuss progress on ASCOT’s coconut germplasm project at its Bazal Campus. This initiative, aimed at sustainable agriculture and community empowerment, positions ASCOT as a future provider of high-quality coconut varieties for Aurora’s agricultural sector. The meeting reviewed project requirements and addressed necessary permits, bringing ASCOT closer to its goal of strengthening local livelihoods through sustainable coconut farming. The meeting included ASCOT Legal Officer IV Karl Thomas Olivar, PCA Aurora Division Chief Juan F. Millar, Jr., Agriculturist II Jim C. Dela Cruz, Provincial Agriculturist Arnold B. Novicio, DENR CENRO Dingalan’s Senior EMS Manuel Bata, Jr., Forester II Protacio Famenia III, and Forest Technician I Rizza Espineli and Bazal officials. This partnership reflects ASCOT’s commitment to advancing community resilience and sustainable growth within the coconut industry. #ASCOT2024 #CoconutProject #SDG17