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Investiture Ceremony Marks New Era at Partido State University with Dr. Arnel B. Zarcedo as 4th President

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.

The Global Indigeneity Conference: Building Community Partnerships and Networks

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

Photo: https://wennergren.org/



ParSU and UP-MSI Lead Futures Thinking and PhycoPRO Initiative on Seaweed Farming

To enhance the capacity of seaweed farmers in Caramoan, Camarines Sur, the Partido State University (ParSU) College of Sustainable Communities and Ecosystems (Caramoan Campus), in collaboration with the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (UP-MSI), spearheaded a comprehensive three-day workshop titled: "Sustainable Communities and Ecosystems through Algae: A Futures Thinking and PhycoPRO Initiative on Seaweed Farming." This was held from September 11-13, 2024, in Brgy. Haponan, Caramoan, Camarines Sur, aimed to transfer technical knowledge and skills related to seaweed farming, production, and enterprise development while introducing innovative strategies to improve the sustainability of local seaweed farming practices.

Over 35 seaweed farmers from barangay Haponan attended the workshop. It commenced with welcome remarks from key officials, including ParSU's Vice President for Research, Extension, and Knowledge Management, Dr. Raul G. Bradecina; and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Michael A. Clores; as well as Hon. Alma L. Ruiz, Barangay Captain of barangay Haponan.

 Dr. Bradecina emphasized the critical role seaweed farmers play in food security and as vital contributors to the local economy. Dr. Clores outlined the importance of the initiative, linking it to ParSU's Futures Thinking Program and its collaborative PhycoPRO research project with UP-MSI.

The workshop featured a panel of experts from UP-MSI, including Dr. Michael Y. Roleda, and members of the Algal Ecophysiology Lab (AlgAE) consisting of Ms. Lourie Ann R. Hinaloc, Ms. Shienna Gonzaga, John Rey L. Gacura, Mr. Ronel T. Aguilar. Mr. Emmanuel M. Mendoza, Mr. Bienson Narvate, and a representative from UP Visayas, Mx. Eljenmer L. Sindo.

Dr. Roleda spearheaded the lectures on the opening day on integrated Marine Protected Areas (iMPAs) and regenerative seaweed farming, emphasizing the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems. Lectures on biology, ecology, and reproduction of eucheumatoid seaweeds were delivered by Mr. Navarte, focusing on the three major groups of seaweeds: green (Chlorophyta), red (Rhodophyta), and brown (Ochrophyta).

Participants also gained insights about seaweed diseases, pests, optimal farming locations, and the critical need for coastal zonation as resource speakers shared best practices on planting, monitoring, handling, and transportation from other seaweed-producing countries. Following the lectures, seaweed farmers participated in group workshops to share their knowledge and identify suitable farming locations based on their experiences and the issues resulting from seasonal changes.

On the second day, the team visited two seaweed farms in Sitio Balibagan, Haponan, Caramoan, Camarines Sur, where seaweed farming in a mangrove area and open sea locations is currently practiced. Discussions on improved seaweed farming techniques, harvesting, drying, and storage protocols were conducted after returning to the site. Dr. Roleda also led a session on nursery management, highlighting past lessons from the seaweed industry to guide future developments.

On the final day, Dr. Bradecina delivered a lecture on the potential of seaweed farms as ecotourism sites and emphasized the importance of establishing cooperatives to access funding and grants. He presented case studies where seaweed farms doubled as successful ecotourism destinations, illustrating their dual economic potential.

Hon. Ruiz expressed gratitude to ParSU for selecting Haponan as a beneficiary and partner in marine conservation efforts. She highlighted the significance of the workshop in revitalizing seaweed farming in the community, enabling farmers to apply new knowledge and skills for improved productivity.

The extension activity concluded with distributing farming supplies and materials to participants. Dr. Clores reiterated that the distributed supplies were more than just materials; they represented a means for the community to shape its desired future in seaweed farming. He emphasized the university's commitment to fostering a sustainable and prosperous future for local seaweed farmers, the community, and the nation.

The event, which hopes to increase seaweed production volume and income to seaweed farmers, thereby contributing to poverty and hunger alleviation, rural enterprise development, and tourism in Caramoan, Camarines Sur, is in line with the goals of the Futures Thinking Program and Initiatives of the University, which is to "promote sustainable behaviors among people, with these desired behaviors strategically integrated with science, culture, education, technology and the arts through capacity building."

Article by: Eunice M. Sentelices














Partido State University Engages in Global Indigeneity Conference 2024 at Banaue, Ifugao

As part of its commitment to internationalization and growing collaborative efforts, Partido State University co-sponsored and participated in  the Global Indigeneity Conference 2024 held at the Banaue Grand View Hotel, Banaue, Ifugao last August 22-25, 2024. The said conference aims to contribute to the global dialogue on indigenous issues, sharing insights on challenges, experiences, and best practices with scholars from across the globe.

Dr. Stephen B. Acabado from the University of California Los Angeles-Center for South East Asian Studies, supported by the Henry Luce Foundation, Wenner-Gren Foundation, Save the Ifugao Terraces Movement (SITMo), Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology, Mindanao State University - General Santos City, Ifugao State University, Pangasinan Polytechnic College, and Sorsogon State University, collaborated as co-sponsors with Partido State University during the aforementioned conference.

Participating in the event from ParSU were Dr. Arnel Zarcedo, the university's President, Prof. Patricia Candelaria, the Director of Research, Leih Anne Odoño, Board Secretary V & Director of International Affairs, Raymond Estrada from the CED Faculty, and Karen Eyre Moshie Artiaga, the Director of Museo de Isarog.

Ms. Artiaga, the Director of MDI, also served as a panelist on the discussion titled Empowering Futures: Cultivating Indigenous Education Curricula. The panel brought together educators, indigenous figures, academics, and policymakers to discuss the design and execution of curricula that incorporate indigenous wisdom, languages, and teaching methods. During the session, she delivered a thought-provoking presentation entitled: "From Field to Museum Programs: Plants, People, and Digital Conservation”. Her presentation centered on the strategies employed by a regional university museum to establish enduring initiatives and activities that seamlessly merge intricate scientific findings.

During the community visit in Kiangan, Ifugao, ParSU reiterated its dedication to UCLA as a significant global collaborator by revalidating their Memorandum of Understanding at the conference. Dr. Zarcedo highlighted that the partnership would facilitate exchanges across different disciplines to bolster research, outreach initiatives, and teaching endeavors focused on tackling issues such as climate change, food sustainability, and cultural enhancement.

ParSU GIC participants,  President Dr. Arnel Zarcedo, Leih Anne Odono, Prof Patricia Candelaria and Ms. Karen Artiaga
with the Dean of the Social Sciences Division of UCLA (3rd L) and Director of the Center for Southeast Asian Studies,
UCLA, Dr. Stephen Acabado (3rd R).

Dr. Arnel Zarcedo delivering his closing message at the Global Indigeneity Conference in Banaue, Ifugao

PSU-CSCE (Caramoan Campus) Wraps Up Second Successful Futures Thinking Marine Conservation and Restoration Summer Camp

From July 16 to 23, 2024, a diverse group of participants comprised of senior high school students, college students, faculty members, and researchers from across the Bicol region attended the second installment of the Marine Conservation and Restoration Summer Camp at the Partido State University College of Sustainable Communities and Ecosystems (Caramoan Campus).

The week-long activity included lectures, workshops, and educational field demonstrations on mangroves, corals, fishes, seaweeds, and seagrasses ecosystems designed to give participants pivotal knowledge and skills on biodiversity assessment. The hands-on learning approach during the camp allowed the participants to actively engage with the subject matter.  A culminating activity where participants presented their collected data was also conducted as part of the week-long camp activity.

Resource speakers were Mr.  Jaspher R. Nieves, MSc, and Ms.  Divina P. Chica who covered lectures on mangroves; Mr. Raul B. Burce, MSc, and Mr. Ronnel A. Dioneda, Jr.on corals and fishes; Mr. Eljenmer L. Sindo, RFP highlighted the topic on seaweeds while Dr. Michael A. Clores discussed about seagrasses. They also facilitated the workshops and fieldwork activities during the camp. The lecture provided the participants with basic concepts related to each ecosystem and the workshops allowed them to have an overview of the biodiversity assessment unique to each of the ecosystems. Moreover, the educational fieldwork demonstrations in Tabgon, Paniman, and Guijalo — all in Caramoan, Camarines Sur — allowed the participants to collect data, which they presented during the data presentation. Mr. Cyrus Job Dela Cruz, MSc; Mr.  Reyland Alegroso, RFP, and Mr. Diomerl Edward B. Baldo, MSc, were invited to provide feedback and critique the presentation.

These activities align with the Futures Thinking programs and initiatives of the college and the University for Sustainable Marine Ecosystems allowing the participants to discern an overview of the probable and possible futures of these ecosystems and the preferred futures they want. At the end of the activity, a strong call for action was emphasized, underlining the urgent need for the conservation, protection, and management of these vital ecosystems.

Article by Eljenmer L. Sindo, photos by Bryan V. Barillo








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