BatStateU-The NEU accedes to world-class status as a CDIO collaborator, further strengthening the Philippines’ Engineering Education
Batangas State University, The National Engineering University (BatStateU-The NEU), achieved yet another significant milestone with the official approval of its world-class status as a CDIO (Conceive-Design-Implement-Operate) collaborator. CDIO is known as a global educational framework for engineering education whose goal is to train the leaders of tomorrow in engineering. CDIO gives students a well-rounded education with a focus on engineering basics and real-world systems and products. Leading universities worldwide have adopted this initiative, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University, Tsinghua University, and the Chalmers University of Technology. As a collaborator, BatStateU-The NEU extends its network of academic institutions worldwide, allowing for the sharing of best practices and fostering a dynamic, experiential, and collaborative learning environment. “We are delighted to become one of the three collaborators of CDIO in the Philippines, and one of the 52 in Asia, joining a global community of 183 universities committed to providing students with a truly unique and transformative educational experience,” said Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, President of BatStateU-The NEU. “Its approach aligns perfectly with our mission to provide a rigorous and relevant education that prepares our students to become industry-ready graduates and build a stronger nation,” Dr. Ronquillo underscored. This achievement is a testament to the University’s commitment to delivering 21st-century world-class education to produce future-ready engineering leaders. Thus, BatStateU-The NEU continues to take the lead in advancing engineering education among SUCs and other HEIs in the country, contributing to the growth and development of the engineering profession in the Philippines and beyond.
Filipino students dominate International stage and claim Victory at IPFEST Indonesia 2023
BATANGAS CITY – Batangas State University, The Philippines’ National Engineering University has once again made their mark on international stage as a team of BS Petroleum Engineering students raised our Philippine Flag higher with their achievements at the prestigious Integrated Petroleum Festival (IPFEST) 2023 Smart Competition held in Bandung Institute of Technology, Indonesia on February 24. Led by their coach, Engr. Miguel Paulo B. Abas, Team Barrack Oil composed of Nick Audrei R. Manila, Selwyn M. Medrano, and Rhyan Antonio G. Evea emerged as champions, while the Team Trioil and Error consisted of John Carlo Doria, Marcus Gabriel A. Gutierrez, and Russel Vincent V. Manalo, respectively, clinched the 1st runner-up spot. Conquering the four stages of the competition including : Online Preliminary stage, Elimination stage, Semi Final, and Grand Final, the teams defeated several institutions from across Southeast Asia including teams from Indonesia and Algeria, which makes their victory even more astounding. “We are incredibly proud of our Red Spartans for their outstanding achievement at IPFEST 2023. We hope this victory inspires them to follow their passion and strive for excellence in their respective disciplines. Their achievement, which brought glory and pride to the country, serves as an inspiration to the entire Red Spartan community,” Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, the University president of BatStateU-The NEU remarked. This victory of BatStateU-The NEU students is a testimony to their unrelenting tenacity, extraordinary talent, and exceptional teamwork as well as to their capacity to raise the bar for the future of petroleum engineers. It once again proved its leading position in engineering education by providing quality education to produce top-notch petroleum engineering graduates who are future-ready and well-equipped to take on challenges in the world. Bearing the theme “Understanding the A to Z of Oil and Gas as A Strategy For Energy Transition,” this year’s Smart Competition is one of the main event of IPFEST 2023 which challenged the brightest minds from various universities across Southeast Asia to showcase their knowledge in the oil and gas industries by answering questions in a rally system and delivering their answers quickly and precisely.
BatStateU-Integrated School Launches to Victory at the Philippines’ 12th FIRST LEGO League 2023
On February 11, Batangas State University Integrated School (BatStateU-IS) made a triumphant splash at the 12th FIRST LEGO League (FLL) competition held at SM North Edsa, 4F Cyberzone, Quezon City. With two powerhouse teams, BatStateU-IS students swept the competition with flying colors. Out of 24 participating schools around the country, Team CEALAW emerged as the Overall National Champion. Aimed to be a visionary solution to energy needs in off-grid coastal communities, this Project CEALAW is a 3D-printed lamp powered by an electrolytic cell that utilizes carbon dioxide, coconut water, and seawater. Project CEALAW sets a new standard for innovative inventions elevating discarded resources, adapting to change, and bringing closer to a world powered by affordable and clean energy. The First Lego League (FLL) is an international competition that encourages students to learn valuable skills, such as teamwork, critical thinking, and coding and design, through hands-on, interactive science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) activities. Participants are tasked with designing and building a Lego-based solution to a real-world problem, as well as presenting their ideas and innovations to a panel of judges. Set to represent the Philippines at the FLL World Championship in Houston, Texas, USA from April 16-23, 2023, Team CEALAW is composed of the following students: TEAM CEALAW: Robo Mission Participants: 1. Joseph Bernard A. Maala 2. Diandre Daivik I. Hernandez 3. Ashley Beth C. Brucal 4. Rhyle Shannon C. Aguda 5. Raab Bishop A. Endaya 6. Sicilia Armyn A. Cruzat Research Innovation Project Participants 1. Carmelo Emanuel O. Echanez 2. Sam Efrain A. Cananua 3. Royce Allyson C. Gutierrez 4. Apoll Marc Venedict A. Hernandez Coaches: 1. Eugene E. Mendoza 2. Jed C. Tolentino Notwithstanding, another team from BatStateU-IS bagged multiple awards, including 4th Place in the FLL Challenge, Best Innovation Project, and Core Values Finalist with their PROJECT PIECAChU: Potassium-Induced Emergency Cell As Charging Unit. A solution that not only powers rural communities but also aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals – The Saba Banana Waste Peel Battery. This innovative battery is crafted from a blend of organic materials, including discarded banana peels and recycled scraps, to provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional energy sources. The Saba Banana Waste Peel Battery through Project PIECAChU is a worthy example of how innovative solutions drive progress toward a more sustainable future. TEAM PIECAChU: Robo Mission Participants: 1. Ma. Hannah Sofia G. Gomez 2. Light Gabriel M. Bandayrel 3. Peterson D. Ronquillo 4. Maria Ahlyza Andrea M. Mercado 5. Rowlen Mathew A. Guia 6. Allen Henrik M. Montoya Research Innovation Project 1. Darygnne Jaymeeh G. De Silva 2. Stephanie B. Alba 3. Ezira Lojelle C. Baculo 4. Reinald Arne I. Bool Coaches: 1. Jenny P. Macalalad 2. Jomari B. Montalbo BatStateU University President, Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo personally graced the competition and lauded the BatStateU-IS participants for these remarkable achievements. “I am so proud of these “Batang-IS Challengers”. This competition is beyond sharpening competence in robotics, as well, this is developing critical thinking skills, creativity, teamwork and discipline ” Dr. Ronquillo said. “Achieving victory in this highly competitive tournament demands a rare blend of ingenuity, technical mastery, and articulate expression. It also requires a complete comprehension of the competition’s objectives and a robust commitment to working as a team. The students and mentors have demonstrated not only these qualities but have exceeded expectations, elevating their performance to a level deserving of recognition,” Mr. Luis Philip M. Oropesa, Head Teacher III of BatStateU-IS also expressed. These victories, without a doubt, are a testament to the remarkable talent and dedication of these BatStateU-IS students, as well as the guidance and encouragement of their coaches. Their impressive performance demonstrates their commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, and critical thinking skills in their students. With this strong foundation and sustained support, these BatStateU’s young innovators will be able to reach new heights and leave a lasting legacy.
BSRU of Thailand visits BatStateU-The NEU to establish academic ties in research, community services, cultural sharing, and student and faculty exchange
Batangas State University, The National Engineering University (BatStateU-The NEU) further strengthened its commitment to internationalization after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bansomdejchaopraya Rajabhat University (BSRU) on January 9. BSRU is a public higher educational institution which is among the top 60 universities in Thailand. It offers a wide range of undergraduate degree programs under its six faculties: Science and Technology, Education, Management Science, Humanities and Social Sciences, Music, Engineering and Industrial Technology. Additionally, this institution provides 14 Master’s and seven Ph.D. degree programs, as well as a Graduate Diploma program for Teacher Training. BatStateU-The NEU President Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo and BSRU President Dr. Linda Gainma led the ceremonial MoU signing, which symbolizes the partnership between the two universities in academic collaboration. These include the conduct of academic, research, and community services; the development of joint research, publication, seminar, and conference; the exchange of faculty members, staff members, and students for both short and long terms; and the conduct of cultural activities. This initiative is aligned with the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). “I am delighted about this partnership as it will bring visibility, credibility and prestige to an initiative. I know that it will demonstrate a strong commitment towards ensuring students and staff access to mentorship, experiential learning, equity, inclusivity and even exposure to new challenges and perspectives, and this is something I am truly excited about,” Dr. Ronquillo articulated. Both Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) set out to establish an institute of learning for teacher and human development towards producing communicative, skillful, and multicultural-trained graduates. In parallel, BatStateU-The NEU and BSRU agreed to conduct collaborative research projects among faculty, engage in Student Visits and Exchange and Teaching Internship Exchange, and hold webinars/seminars and training to empower and inspire the next generation of leaders, to improve the lives of professionals and to serve as stewards of the best practices in teacher education program. BatStateU-The NEU is also open to exploring other prospective opportunities with BSRU in other relevant projects and initiatives that will enhance the education of their students, increase research accomplishments, broaden the knowledge base of their faculty, and promote mutual understanding and enlightenment of the people of their respective countries. BSRU delegates, including Vice President Dr. Sutipporn Chotratanasak, Vice President Assoc. Prof. Sayan Puttala, Asst. President Dr. Suriya Phankosol, Chairman of Academic Services Project Assoc. Prof. Somchai Promsuwan, Chairman of Doctoral Programme in Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Areewan Iamsa-Ard, Director of Office of International Affairs and ASEAN Network Dr. Kulsirin Aphiratvoradej, Dean of Graduate School of Dr. Kanakorn Sawangcharoen, Deputy Deans of Graduate School Dr. Nainapas Injoungjirakit and Asst. Prof. Akaranun Asavarutpokin, and Deputy Director of Office of International Affairs and ASEAN Network Asst. Prof. Chalermsup Karamjakwut also graced the ceremonial MoU signing. Also present is Dr. Teodorica G. Ani, Director of External Affairs from BatStateU Central, along with other BatStateU officials from the Malvar campus, including Chancellor Dr. Philip Y. Del Rosario, Vice Chancellor for Development and External Affairs Dr. Sharon G. Angulo, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Dr. Amado C. Gequinto, Dean of College of Teacher Education Dr. Nora V. Marasigan, Head of External Affairs Dr. Romel M. Aceron and Focal Person in Internationalization in Action of CTE Dr. Genalyn P. Lualhati. Preview in new tab
BatStateU-The NEU enters 2022 UI GreenMetric World University rankings
As evidence of its strong commitment to contribute to a more sustainable world, the Batangas State University (BatStateU), The National Engineering University (NEU) was hailed as the 351st World’s Most Sustainable University in the 2022 UI GreenMetric World University Rankings, and 4th in the country. As a first-time participant in the said ranking, BatStateU-The NEU successfully garnered 6,760 points from 39 indicators in six different criteria namely: energy and climate, waste, water, transportation, and education and research through the university’s sustainability commitment and initiatives, where the university ranked 168th in the world in the area of education and research. Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, University President, thanked all members of the university for their collective actions towards sustainability, especially the task force which initiated the collection and submission of the required data to the UI GreenMetric portal. Recently, the university further made its sustainability efforts more robust by establishing the Center for Sustainable Development (CSD) to ensure that sustainability is an essential component of the university’s core duties of instruction, research, innovation, and extension services, as well as its general administrative and general support services functions. As part of the abovementioned efforts, the university likewise designated Sustainability Development Officers (SDOs) per constituent campuses to ensure that the programs, projects, and activities (PPAs) on a campus level are aligned with the SDGs, and approved the University Policy Guidelines for the Attainment of Sustainable Development Goals by virtue of Board Resolution No. 136, s. 2022. With the theme “Collective Actions for Transforming Sustainable Universities in the Post-Pandemic Time,” the UI GreenMetric was participated by 1050 higher education institutions (HEIs) across the globe, and focuses on higher education’s efforts to continue their sustainability programs and policies based on sustainable development goals (SDGs) while preparing for teaching, learning, and research in post-pandemic COVID-19. Developed since 2010 by the University of Indonesia, UI GreenMetric is the first ranking in the World that has established a Voluntary Standard for improving university infrastructure and action towards sustainable universities worldwide. Complete results of the rankings are available at the UI GreenMetric website.
Inauguration and Opening of The Gateway to the Philippines’ National Engineering University and Fitness Development Center marks a new milestone to BatStateU-The NEU
PHOTO: Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, Dr. Charmaine Rose I. Triviño together with the Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension Services Engr. Albertson D. Amante and other BatStateU Officials cut the ribbon during the Inauguration and Opening of the Fitness Development Center. BATANGAS CITY – Another milestone was marked in the history of Batangas State University (BatStateU), The National Engineering University (The-NEU) after the Inauguration and Opening of The Gateway to the Philippines’ National Engineering University dubbed as “Gateway to Greatness” and the Fitness Development Center at BatStateU Alangilan Campus, December 22, 2022. The Gateway to Greatness is the symbolic portal of the Philippines’ National Engineering University. Structured akin to the outline of Pi (π), which to the Greeks means “circumference” or “periphery”, the Gateway to Greatness resonates the University’s spirit as the National Engineering University to make a mark and to lead in the engineering and technological, and emerging fields in the age of digital transformation. The wave-like roof of the Gateway to Greatness represents flexibility and adaptability which characterize Red Spartans as they respond to the rapidly changing needs of the nation and the world. The gap between two surfaces of the roof represents the distance to perfection, the need for continuous innovation, and the constant reminder to address challenges through research and development and generation of meaningful solutions. The two main columns that support the discontinuity of two roof surfaces represent the partnerships needed in a collaborative world. On the other hand, the Fitness Development Center, which was inaugurated on the same day, actualizes the dream for every Red Spartan as builders of communities and the nation – strong in body, resilient in spirit, and wise in mind. It shall bear witness to the spirit of discipline, sportsmanship, and fairness and be a testament to the commitment of BatStateU-The NEU, to the holistic formation of mind and body of every Red Spartan. “I envision this Fitness Development Center (FDC) as the center for holistic training of every Red Spartan. This FDC is, so far, the biggest gymnasium of BatStateU which can accommodate up to 4,000 guests”, Dr. Ronquillo shared during his message. He also commended the officials of BatStateU-Alangilan who are working so hard for the accomplishment of the developments in the campus. He concluded his message by expressing his hope and prayer that may the dear Lord continue to give everyone the strength and wisdom to serve the community, and the nation. The inauguration ceremonies were graced by the members of the BatStateU Presidential Advisory Council, and the entire Red Spartan Community. Situated in Alangilan, Batangas City, BatStateU-Alangilan is home for the University’s more than 19,000 students under the College of Engineering, College of Architecture, Fine Arts and Design, College of Industrial Technology, and College of Informatics and Computing Sciences. Housing first-class advanced laboratories for technology, computing, and engineering students, other dynamic and interactive learning spaces, research and innovation hub, and niche research centers, BatStateU-Alangilan Campus embodies the university campus of the future.
BatStateU Teams bag International Awards in the EIC’22
A team of BS Electronics Engineering students from Batangas State University, The National Engineering University victoriously emerged as “CHAMPION University Category” in the recently concluded Engineering Innovation Challenge (EIC) 2022 in Singapore. It was organized by the Institution of Engineers, Singapore (IES) and Science Centre Singapore with the support of the Ministry of Education. The competition commenced in September 2022 and was concluded with a demo and awards presentation during the celebration of Singapore’s National Engineering Day (NED) on November 19. With creativity and innovation, the team topped other finalists from different countries including students from the National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University who came second and third respectively. Ai-quaponics-360, Champion, Engineering Innovation Challenge 2022 – University Category Their innovative models were evaluated based on the final product, creativity, design and methodology, originality of the research problem and teamwork. The BatStateU four (4) engineering teams composed of five (5) engineering students and a faculty mentor that made it to the finals of the EIC 2022 under University Category. The team who worked tenaciously on the innovation project, AI-quaponics-360 included Marc James M. Beltran, John Vincent D. Biscocho, Lawrence M. De Castro, Maria Nelly S. Magboo, and Jerico D. Matibag. They used the Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to to create an intelligent small-scale aquaponics system, for the monitoring and control of aquaponics parameters, as well as its botanical and zoological components, innovatively designed for food sustainability and security through home urban farming. Dr. Alvin S. Alon, Head of the Digital Transformation Center, BatStateU mentored the team and resolutely guided them all throughout the competition. The “Merit Awards” in the same category were received by the two other teams from BatStateU with their entries: Intelligence Road Quality Monitoring System with Vibration-Sensing Device and Machine Vision Camera dubbed as AI-Rover by John Lloyd A. Austria, Alyssa Mharbie T. Aleta, Nicole L. Librea, James D. Mondelo, and John Carlo L. Padua, mentored by Dr. Anton Louise P. De Ocampo; and the AI 3D SET GO, an AI-Optimized 3D-Printed Adsorbents Decorated with Waste PET Plastic-Derived Metal-Organic Frameworks for Effective and Sustainable Wastewater Remediation by Lawrence V. Portillo, Alvin D. Javier, Andrea A. Rubia, and Abigayle Vince G. Cruz, coached by Dr. Reymark D. Maalihan. Team EUGTO, which seeks to establish Urban Building Placements and Generating Environmental Impacts Through Artificial Intelligence with student members: Rosselle June M. Asi, Eloiza Jean D. Atienza, Clarisse F. Fajarito, Christine Marie V. Oca, and Abegail B. Pangilinan under the BS Electronics Engineering. They were mentored by Dr. Anton Louise P. De Ocampo, Faculty of Electronics Engineering Department and Head of Electronic Systems Research Center. The BatStateU finalists were supported by the research centers under the Science, Technology, Engineering and Environment Research (STEER) Hub such as the Digital Transformation Center (DTC), Electronic Systems Research Center (ESRC), Material Testing and Calibration Center (MTCC) and the Center for Innovations in Engineering Education (CIEE). Beyond the monetary reward of SGD 8,000.00 for the Champion Team, additional gains were the reward of gaining maturity, building self-confidence, having a greater appreciation of teamwork and professionalism, and an opportunity to develop their potential in providing an innovative solution for a more sustainable future, the inspiration it provides among young Filipino engineers and students even. Truly, Batangas State University, the National Engineering University continuously manifests excellence, creativity and commitment to staying true to its mandates to achieve relevance and create transformative impact through innovations towards a sustainable future.
Indian Maritime University and BatStateU-The NEU seals partnership to strengthen academic cooperation in various marine-related programs
BATANGAS CITY – Batangas State University (BatStateU), The Philippines’ National Engineering University further expands its international linkages as it seals partnership with the Indian Maritime University (IMU) to strengthen academic cooperation in various marine-related programs on November 9, 2022. Initiated by the Embassy of India to the Philippines led by His Excellency Shambhu S. Kumaran, the partnership between the two Universities was formalized through the Ceremonial Signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The MoU concretized the strong commitment of BatStateU-The NEU and IMU to work collaboratively and establish academic cooperation through academic exchanges, collaborative research projects, co-hosting of conferences, and other mutually beneficial activities in the areas of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, Port Management, and Marine Biodiversity. BatStateU-The NEU President, Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo warmly welcomed everyone at the ceremony and expressed his enthusiasm about the possible collaboration between the two universities. He hoped that IMU would work co-actively with BatStateU pertaining to research protection, conservation and strategic management of the marine biodiversity in the Verde Island Passage (VIP) as one of the legal mandates of BatStateU as the National Engineering University. Dr. Ronquillo also extended his message of gratitude to H.E Shambhu S. Kumaran, Ambassador of India to the Philippines, for always bringing new and numerous opportunities to the University. BatStateU-The NEU, as the Philippine’s largest provider of engineering education recently offered BS in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering as one of the emerging engineering programs. All these, coupled with the University’s firm commitment to protect, conserve, and strategically manage the marine biodiversity in the Verde Island Passage (VIP) are seen instrumental by the institution to successfully develop professional graduates ready for entry as active participants and competent leaders in the industrialized world. Vice Chancellor of Indian Maritime University, Dr. Malini V. Shankar, I.A.S. (Retd.) conveyed through a video message her gratitude to BatStateU and Embassy of India to the Philippines for making the partnership possible. “I wish that this MoU becomes a building block for our engagement in the international community especially in the Asian region and thereby promote South-South cooperation”, she added. IMU is a central university in India which deals with a wide range of topics related to the sea which is intended to fulfill the requirements of the Maritime Sector of India. Composed of six campuses, IMU is poised to play a key role in the development of trained human resources for the maritime sector. “I am looking forward to this partnership being reinforced as soon as possible. We will help to facilitate and promote maritime studies, training, research and extension work focusing on emerging areas of studies like oceanography, maritime history and laws, security and other related fields. ”,as H.E. Shambhu S. Kumaran ended his closing remarks. The MoU signing was also graced by Ms. Pooja Vernekar, the First Secretary of Embassy of India to the Philippines and BatStateU-The NEU officials including the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Charmaine Rose I. Triviño, Vice President for Research, Development and Extension Services Assoc. Prof. Albertson D. Amante, Vice President for Administration and Finance Atty. Luzviminda C. Rosales, Vice President for Development and External Affairs Atty. Noel Alberto S. Omandap, and the Dean of the College of Engineering Dr. Reynato A. Gamboa. This initiative, as one among the valuable partnerships that BatStateU has inked, is responsive to the attainment of SDGs 4: Quality Education, 6: Clean Water and Sanitation; 14: Life below Water; and 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Undoubtedly, BatStateU-The NEU continues to shape the history of the country’s engineering education by leading innovations, transforming lives, and building the nation.
BatStateU, The NEU emerges as the TOP PERFORMING SCHOOL in CBLE 2022, bags 1st, 2nd, 7th and 9th spots
BATANGAS CITY – Batangas State University, The National Engineering University has once again proven its academic excellence as it emerged as the TOP Performing School in the recently concluded Customs Brokers Licensure Examination (CBLE) 2022. As released by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) last November 8, 2022, BatStateU-The NEU obtained 82.86% passing percentage, higher than the 46.46% National passing rate. Out of 1,879 examinees nationwide, BatStateU graduate Mr. John Ro Aaron H. Ramos was hailed as TOP 1, notching a passing rate of 91.50%. Correspondingly, another three (3) BatStateU grads also aced the examination: Ms. Christine Veronica G. Calingasan with 91% rating bagged the 2nd spot, while Ms. Ma. Fatima A. Carag with 89% rating, and Mr. Arvin I. Faigmani with 88.50% rating reaped the seventh and ninth spots respectively. Overall, BatStateU-The NEU has successfully registered 58 new Licensed Customs Brokers. It is indeed another remarkable feat not only for the College of Accountancy, Business, Economics, and International Hospitality Management (CABEIHM) Pablo Borbon campus but for the entire BatStateU community as the university remains steadfast in its adherence to produce world-class leaders in the global knowledge economy.
BatStateU officially opens its Gateway to Greatness: Gate 4 Façade, inaugurates the first Learning Development Center
BATANGAS CITY – On September 23, 2022, Batangas State University (BatStateU), The National Engineering University (The NEU), was placed at the forefront of development as it held two (2) inauguration ceremonies for its state-of-the-art infrastructures including the Learning Development Center (LDC) and the Gateway to Greatness: Gate 4 Façade. With a total floor area of 1,731.91 square meters, the first LDC of Batangas State University- Integrated School is a three-storey building which accommodates the school’s increasing population that frames intentional activities and outcomes. It provides a learning space for creative thinking, learning interaction, collaboration, and innovation. More so, the building houses a Robotics Laboratory, Fabrication Laboratory (FabLab), Computer Laboratory, Library, Exhibit Room, three (3) offices, and seven (7) conducive classrooms which support a meaningful learning experience for Red Spartan problem-solvers, innovators, and critical thinkers in the demand of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. The ribbon cutting ceremony and marker unveiling of the LDC were commenced by the University President, Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, and the Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Charmaine Rose I. Triviño. Following the blessing of the building led by Rev. Fr. Emiliano Magsino, a ceremonial turn-over also took place as Mr. Luis Philip M. Oropesa, Head Teacher III of BatStateU Integrated School, officially accepted the key which signifies responsible stewardship, from Dr. Ronquillo. The two inauguration ceremonies were also attended by the members of the Presidential Advisory Council, vice-chancellors, administrative officials, and the entire Red Spartan Community. “We say that every peso or every centavo spent on the development of our Integrated School is not an expense but rather, our investment for the future… This three-storey Learning Development Center is really meant for the advancement of our Integrated School students attuned to the needs of the STEM track. This new infrastructure will allow them to excel in all aspects of the academic realm”, Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo conveyed, in a special message. He also challenged the students of the university to vigorously participate in providing solutions in confronting problems of the community through advanced Science and Technology. Meanwhile, as the guest of honor of the ceremony, Hon. Marvey A. Mariño graced the event and congratulated BatStateU and its officials led by Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, for the new developments inside the university. He lauded all the people behind the continuous success of BatStateU and shared how happy and proud he is that Batangas State University is the first and only “National Engineering University” in the country. He expressed that he is confident that BatStateU will continue to be a steadfast institution producing the best of the best human capital in the country. Closing the first part of the ceremony was Dr. Expedito V. Acorda, chancellor of BatStateU Pablo Borbon campus, who displayed gratitude to all BatStateU officials and the entire Integrated School community because of their cooperation and continuous efforts towards the realization of the inauguration ceremony. He also challenged not only the faculty members but also the students to keep striving for excellence for the love of Batangas State University, their second home. That day was even made more noteworthy as BatStateU also officially opened its new Gate 4 façade. The said university façade offers convenience to the growing campus community of BatStateU Pablo Borbon, composed of more than 19,000 students and several faculty members and employees, by managing smooth access and egress during its usual operations and emergency situations. Dubbed as “Gateway to Greatness”, the new façade is expected to lead to endless opportunities for holistic personal growth and service to others. It shall open up a world that brings out the best in each Red Spartan to cultivate intellect and unique talents driven by the spirit of empathy, openness, and collaboration. Similarly, it shall usher to a community of thinkers, doers, and builders that celebrate both the joys and lows of exploration, experimentation, and innovation. Upon entering this new gate, every Red Spartan shall signify their commitment to sharpen and enrich thousand-fold their God-given gifts and return the favor by helping transform the lives of families and communities and building the nation. These new developments inside the university are part of BatStateU – The NEU’s commitment to provide cutting edge facilities and technologies for the optimum learning experience of the Red Spartans. Thus, it is entrusted to bring forth an academic atmosphere that synergizes technical learning and exciting opportunities for holistic growth in various fields of interest. Further, it adheres to inculcate critical thinking, creativity, and innovativeness to produce world-class leaders in the knowledge-based economy.
