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  • ISPSC hosts student dialogue, seminar for President’s Day

    The Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC) commemorated President’s Day on March 26, in celebration of the first anniversary of Dr. Mario P. Obrero as College President, bannered by activities that highlighted student engagement and participatory leadership.

    At the center of the celebration was the “One Campus, One Conversation: Kwentuhan with the President,” an open forum that brought together student leaders and writers from across ISPSC campuses. The dialogue created a space for students to raise concerns directly, share perspectives, and engage with the administration, reinforcing a culture of shared governance within the institution.

    Dr. Obrero described his first year in office as engaging, citing active collaboration with various stakeholders, particularly in advancing the vision of transforming ISPSC into the University of Ilocos Philippines. He underscored the importance of having a clear direction in decision-making, especially in pursuing universityhood, noting that “we must always know where we are heading as an institution, because every decision we make shapes that direction.”

    He also emphasized the need to uphold excellence across academic programs, alongside improvements in learning environments and infrastructure. Among the notable accomplishments of his administration in its first year are achieving 100% COPC compliance for both undergraduate and graduate programs, expansion of infrastructure projects, strengthened student services, and enhanced institutional partnerships.

    Sharing a personal note, Dr. Obrero recalled that some of his most meaningful moments involved participating in student activities, which allowed him to stay connected with the student body.

    He further disclosed plans for continued development, including allocated funding for a building at the Tagudin Campus and the revisiting of the Student Manual to ensure its responsiveness to current needs.

    To strengthen institutional policies, he also announced an upcoming policy conference that will involve offices and representatives from various stakeholder groups, fostering inclusive and participatory governance.

    Included in the day’s activities was the “Empowering Voices: Leadership and Journalism Seminar,” featuring Mr. Ron Canimo, a writer and youth volunteer advocate, who shared his experiences in writing. Through his narratives, he encouraged student journalists and campus leaders to draw from their own reflections and cultivate a more authentic and expressive voice in their craft.

    Dr. Obrero assumed the presidency in March 2025, introducing the ONWARDS UIP framework, which centers on universityhood initiatives and strategic directions aimed at advancing ISPSC’s institutional growth and transformation. (JGP)
    Photos by Eryll Mae Toquero, King Ancheta, Kry Bayugo

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