As the sun rose on the first official day of classes for 2024, the faculty, staff, and students of Isabela State University Angadanan Campus gathered on the open court, opening the new year with a symbolic first flag ceremony, marking not only the first day after the holidays but also commemorating the 22nd anniversary of the campus’ integration into the ISU system.

In a heartfelt speech delivered by Dr. Oscar G. Bangayan, the Campus Administrator, he reminded everyone of the importance of embracing new beginnings and the opportunity for a fresh start in the students’ academic journey.

He further reflected on the significance of the day, emphasizing how the former Angadanan Agro-Industrial College (AAIC), a CHED Supervised Institution (CSI) now ISU Angadanan Campus has evolved into a reputable institution since its integration into the ISU system on January 8, 2002, by virtue of R.A. 7722, otherwise known as Higher Modernization Act, of 1994 and R.A. 8292 otherwise known as Higher Modernization Act of 1997 and R.A. 8760 of the General Appropriations Act of 2000 for the enhancement of quality education, rationalization of tertiary education and maximization of resources and in compliance with the provisions of the Medium Term Development Plan.

“The integration of ISU-AC into the ISU system was a pivotal moment, made possible through legislative acts aimed at enhancing the quality of education, rationalizing tertiary education, and maximizing resources,” Dr. Bangayan stated.

The campus has achieved remarkable milestones in its 22-year journey. Notably, ISU-AC earned the ISO 9001:2015 Certification in 2019 and has maintained it through yearly surveillance audits as well as passing various levels of the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities Accreditation. This includes the Level III Phase 2 accreditation for the Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology which was also officially awarded Level III Re-Accredited on August 18, 2023, Level 3 Phase 1 for the Bachelor of Secondary Education, Level 1 accreditation for the Bachelor of Technical Vocational Teacher Education and PSV for Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. Each of these accomplishments stands as a testament to ISU-AC’s commitment to excellence.

Dr. Bangayan expressed gratitude to the faculty, staff, and students for their dedication and commitment, stating, “There will undoubtedly be many more challenges that we will encounter, more endeavors to take, and more sacrifices to be made. But with the dedication and commitment that everyone has shown thus far, I am confident that no challenge is insurmountable.”

The speech also touched upon the Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) – Quality Education, emphasizing ISU-AC’s commitment to providing quality education and services to the community, with its achievements and continuous efforts, aligning with the goal of ensuring inclusive and equitable education for all.

Dr. Bangayan extended his appreciation to the ISU-AC community, saying, “On behalf of Isabela State University Angadanan Campus, thank you. May you continue to support our endeavors as we continue to provide quality education and services to the community. May the coming year be filled with growth, success, and positive transformations for each one of us.”

He passionately urged students to embrace the dawn of a new year as a golden chance to surpass their achievements from the past year and evolve into an enhanced, more refined version of themselves.

The skillful performers from the Salukag Dance Troupe captivated the audience with their dynamic moves during the intermission number.

As the program concluded, Dr. Ronie G. Torres, Campus Director of the Polytechnic School, addressed academic matters on behalf of Dr. Warlito D. Antonio, the Campus Director for Academic Affairs. Asst. Prof. Jefferson C. Pascual, Campus Director for Sociocultural Affairs, and Dr. Bienvenido G. Luis, General Services Officer, also shared important updates and announcements.

With the spirit of new beginnings, ISU-AC looks ahead to another year of academic excellence, growth, and contributions to the community.