Published June 30, 2025 by Campus Information Office
A partnership between the Local Government Unit of Gonzaga and Cagayan State University-Gonzaga reached a pivotal moment during the Official Signing Ceremony of Land Ownership Transfer and Unveiling of the Marker held on June 28, 2025, at the CSU-Gonzaga MABRIC Conference Hall.
This historic event commemorates the formal transfer of 10,073 square meters of land—previously designated as the old cemetery of the municipality and now within the CSU-Gonzaga perimeter—solidifying the university’s legal claim to land that has long been integral to its operations and development.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of Gonzaga’s municipal leaders, led by Mayor Hon. Marilyn S. Pentecostes, Vice Mayor Hon. Jessie Gaspar, and members of the Sangguniang Bayan: Hon. Sheryl Anne G. Gaspar, Hon. Rafael E. Sumajit, Hon. Eliseo C. Alibania, Jr., Hon. Ferdinand L. Baclig, Hon. Oscar G. Idmilao, Hon. Cecilia G. Morales, Hon. Orlando B. Rasos, Hon. Quirino S. Jara, Hon. Walter A. Cortes, and Hon. Jhunel B. Alipio.
Representing CSU were Dr. Arthur G. Ibanez, Officer-In-Charge of the Office of the University President; Dr. Ana Marie Cauilan, Vice President for Internationalization, Partnership, and Resource Mobilization; and Dr. Froilan A. Pacris, Jr., Campus Executive Officer of CSU-Gonzaga.
In his speech, Dr. Arthur G. Ibanez expressed profound gratitude to the LGU of Gonzaga, recognizing their unwavering commitment to CSU’s mission.
“This land is more than a title—it is a legacy,” Dr. Ibanez declared. “With it, we secure not just physical space, but the future of learning, innovation, and service. It serves as proof of what is possible when academic institutions and local governments collaborate.”
Dr. Ibanez emphasized that this milestone is one of the many outcomes of CSU’s broader thrust under his administration to maximize institutional assets. He highlighted complementary initiatives, such as the 45,000-tree planting project, the push for sustainable land use, and the establishment of multi-use infrastructures across campuses.
Dr. Ana Marie Cauilan also praised CSU’s leadership for recognizing the value of land as a resource for development:
“This is a leap towards more opportunities not just for CSU-Gonzaga, but for the entire university system. With secured land titles, we unlock doors for resource mobilization, academic improvement, and community-centered projects. It’s a win for everyone.”
She further commended the Office of the OIC President for its visionary leadership and acknowledged the LGU's critical role in enabling CSU’s growth initiatives.
In his welcome address, Dr. Froilan A. Pacris, Jr. acknowledged both the LGU and CSU leadership, sharing that this victory would not only benefit current students but also lay the foundation for future infrastructure, academic expansion, and community programs.
Mayor Marilyn S. Pentecostes, in her address, also emphasized the lasting value of the partnership:
“This land transfer is not just about CSU-Gonzaga—it is about investing in our youth and ensuring that education thrives in Gonzaga. Through this, CSU can further expand its instruction, research, and extension services for the betterment of our community.”
Vice Mayor Jessie Gaspar, a key advocate in the legislative process, reflected on the symbolic and practical impact of the resolution:
“As our term ends, we look back proudly at this legacy—a concrete manifestation of our commitment to education. We hope that CSU and LGU Gonzaga will continue this steadfast partnership in the years to come. I also commend Dr. Pacris for his transparency and dedication in presenting CSU projects directly to our legislative body.”
Finally, Hon. Sheryl Anne G. Gaspar closed the ceremony by thanking the CSU family for the partnership and camaraderie shared with LGU. She also expressed her support for future endeavors and initiatives.
This partnership is expected to pave the way for further improvements in CSU-Gonzaga’s infrastructure, academic offerings, and community outreach programs. With the foundation now legally secured, CSU-Gonzaga stands to fulfill its mandate with greater vigor, commitment, and purpose, alongside the LGU and the people of Gonzaga.
Photos: MIS office, Ms. Lorie Fhel Ramento