December 10, 2024, Caramoan, Camarines Sur

In a significant step towards the protection of avian biodiversity, Partido State University (ParSU) has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Haribon Foundation for the Conservation of Natural Resources, Inc., following the Training Workshop on Avifaunal Biodiversity Assessment: CONSERVATION CONSERVATIONS: Empowering Communities for Avian Protection in Caramoan National Park. 

This collaborative initiative aims to enhance the understanding of avian diversity and abundance in forest habitat fragments while building the capacity of local communities, equipping them with essential skills for habitat management and sustainable conservation practices. The goal is to protect the park's rich avian life and empower the community to participate actively in its preservation.

By combining research, education, and community empowerment, this partnership seeks to protect and preserve the rich biodiversity of Caramoan, ensuring the long-term sustainability of its unique avian species.

The MOA signing marks a new chapter in ParSU's commitment to environmental conservation and its role in fostering sustainable practices within local communities.

Photo credits: ParSU Caramoan Campus

Dr. Arnel B. Zarcedo was formally invested as the 4th President of Partido State University (ParSU) on October 8, 2024 in a momentous ceremony that celebrated continuity, collaboration, and leadership. The event, themed "PUSOG: An lideratong may PUSO, KUSOG asin ISOG," showcased a celebration of heritage, leadership, and a commitment to academic excellence.

The ceremony began with a grand processional led by Dr. Michael A. Clores, Vice-President for Academic Affairs, followed by university officials, former leaders, and esteemed guests. Their presence underscored the importance of unity and collaboration within the institution, reinforcing ParSU's dedication to its mission and values.

As the procession continued, notable figures from also various sectors joined in, including municipal mayors from Partido and surrounding towns, members of the Board of Regents, and representatives from other agencies and organizations. The attendance of these dignitaries highlighted the significance of Dr. Zarcedo's leadership, and the expectations set for the future of the university. This was followed by the Entrance of Colors, the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, and an Invocation led by the ROTC Unit and the ParSU Octave Chorale.

Prior to the official investiture rites, a video featuring the theme of the Investiture—Puso, Kusog, and Isog—along with a brief overview of the history of Partido State University, was presented to the audience. This was succeeded by the introduction of the new president by Dr. Raul G. Bradecina, the former president of Partido State University, who currently serves as the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Knowledge Management.

The esteemed Director of the Provincial Field Office of the Civil Service Commission, Ms. Ma. Dolores D. Salud read Dr. Zarcedo’s official appointment. Following the reading, the event transitioned into the solemn Investiture Rites, presided over by Honorable Ethel Agnes Pascua-Valenzuela, Commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). 
Dr. Zarcedo, dressed in full academic regalia that showcased the university's identity and heritage, was accompanied by his family and members of the Board of Regents, all of whom witnessed this significant investiture, underscoring the community’s collective support for him.

A key part of the ceremony was the presentation of the Presidential Medallion by Commissioner Valenzuela, symbolizing Dr. Zarcedo’s formal investiture as the new university president. "This medallion embodies the traditions and honor of this institution, representing your responsibility and commitment to inspire both the faculty and students who place their trust in you," Valenzuela stated.

In recognition of his new role, Dr. Zarcedo was also conferred the University Mace, a symbol of the powers and responsibilities he now holds as president.

In his acceptance speech, Dr. Zarcedo expressed gratitude for the honor and affirmed his dedication to the university's vision and mission. "I accept these symbols of leadership with the promise to lead with integrity, ensuring effective management of our university's resources while building upon our strengths and rich traditions," he declared.

Afterwards, in his presidential address, Dr. Zarcedo outlined his vision for the university, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and innovation in achieving institutional goals. He also looked back on his humble beginnings and expressed gratitude to the people who served as his inspiration and honed him to be the leader he is today. Expressing his vision for the university, Dr. Zarcedo declared Partido State University as “a university where science and technology meet human understanding, where innovation meets community needs and where every student, faculty member, and partner become part of a dynamic journey towards a sustainable and resilient future.” He further added that his plan focused on six thematic thrusts, change, chance, challenge, create, cooperate and care. These pillars will steer his leadership over the next five years, with his slogan "Puso, Kusog, asin Isog" emphasizing a profound commitment, strength, and courage at the heart of the new leadership.

The investiture rites concluded with the singing of the PSU Hymn, the exit of colors and recessional, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the university under Dr. Zarcedo's leadership. An official photo documentation was also done with the president alongside VIP guests and other attendees. Towards the second part of the ceremony, which was dubbed cultural presentation and socials, attendees expressed their enthusiasm and support for the new president. It also highlighted the messages from the Hon. Ethel Agnes Pascua-Valenzuela, the Commissioner, Commission on Higher Education (CHED); Congressman, Hon. Arnulf Bryan B. Fuentebella; Dr. Baby Boy Benjamin D. Nebres III, President, Bicol University and the Bicol Foundation for High Education (BFHE); President of the Federation of Faculty Association, Hon. Rico D. Saballegue; Hon. Dolores B. Remodo, the President of Federation of Student Councils; and Mr. Guillermo Ortua, Jr., the President, Partido State University Federation of Alumni Association (PSUFAA). 

Adding color to the event were the spectacular performances of ParSU Octave Chorale, Sayasay Folkloric, and Kuerdas de Isarog showcasing the extraordinary talents of ParSU students while offering a glimpse of Philippine heritage, culture, and traditions.

As Dr. Zarcedo takes the helm, Partido State University looks forward to a future characterized by growth, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to its mission of serving the community and fostering educational advancement.

Partido State University is grateful to be one of the co-sponsors of the Global Indigeneity Conference conducted by the UCLA Center for Southeast Asian Studies, with generous funding from the Henry Luce Foundation and the Wenner-Gren Foundation for Anthropological Research. The conference was held last August 22-25, 2024, in Banaue, Ifugao with participants from the Philippines, Australia, Japan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Taiwan, and the USA.

Read full article at: https://wennergren.org/article/the-global-indigeneity-conference-building-community-partnerships-and-networks/?fbclid=IwY2xjawF1XFFleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHZ44QGrV-54_0XkAkqN9GuB1W2iH88U7nFX4K3NwhBJnbCjs8z9azzfhFA_aem_ibvtjBQLhw0IJ82x8X0Y2w