Cagayan State University-Gonzaga held a momentous 3-in-1 event on September 9, marking the groundbreaking and inauguration of several key facilities designed to enhance campus development and community engagement. The festivities included the groundbreaking, blessing, and ribbon-cutting of the CSUG One-stop Shop, the inauguration of the TVET and Business Hub, and the blessing ceremony for the Tangkiran Engineered Bamboo Processing Facility.
Distinguished guests attending the event included the Board of Regents: Hon. Jojo Lara, Congressman of the 3rd District of Cagayan and Hon. Verdict Gonzales, Faculty Representative to the BOR. Also, in attendance were TESDA Regional Director Mr. Toni June Tamayo, TESDA Provincial Director Mr. Genaro Ronald C. Ibay, CSU OIC President Dr. Arthur G. Ibanes, university vice presidents: Dr. Mariden V. Cauilan and Dr. Theresa Dimalanta, university directors, Campus Executive Officers: Dr. Florante Victor Balatico-CEO of Lasam campus, Dr. Policarpio L. Mabborang- CEO of Lallo campus and Dr. Audy R. Quebral-CEO of Aparri campus and the whole CSUG ‘Tangkiran’ community.
The One-stop Shop, a key component of CSU-Gonzaga’s Swine Production project, will serve as a platform for selling locally produced meats. The facility is expected to enhance campus income and support the sustainability of agricultural initiatives, while also providing students with hands-on training in meat processing, marketing and retail management.
Meanwhile, the newly inaugurated TVET and Business Hub is set to play a vital role in equipping students with job-ready technical skills, addressing local labor needs, and fostering entrepreneurship through business incubation services.
The establishment of the TVET new building was lauded by TESDA Regional Director Mr. Toni Tamayo. He congratulated the campus for this achievement.
“This signifies that the institution can now expand its niche in addressing the skill needs of the local community. This activity is a testament of CSU's dedication in promoting TVET standards by providing new facilities that will better equip learners with skills align with global industries,” RD Tamayo, said.
Moreover, to leverage the campus’s bamboo resources, the Tangkiran Engineered Bamboo Processing Facility was blessed. This move of the administration promotes sustainable development and environmental conservation. The facility shall serve as a center for innovation, where new bamboo-based products and techniques can be developed, fostering economic growth while aligning with global trends toward sustainability and green technology. This initiative shall position CSU-Gonzaga in the region as a leader in the engineered bamboo sector, highlighting its potential in sustainable construction and manufacturing.
CSU-Gonzaga CEO Dr. Froilan A. Pacris, Jr., expressed his appreciation to all supporters and partners, noting, “These initiatives are a testament to what we can achieve when we work together for the common good.”
CSU OIC President Dr. Arthur G. Ibanes also commended the CSU-Gonzaga’s achievements, underscoring the significance of these projects in driving innovation and economic growth in the region.
Furthermore, Congressman Jojo Lara, a member of the CSU Board of Regents, also shared his support to the education sector as one of his priorities as government servant. According to him, the youths (students) have many dreams and when given the opportunities, they shall be a great hope of the nation. Congressman Lara promised all campuses of CSU to extend help in every way he can.
Also, Dr. Zarah Lara, one of the stakeholders and benefactors of the university, shared congratulatory message and inspiration to employees and students. Dr. Lara through his profession as medical doctor also promised to extend her services and expertise to all especially those in the grassroots.
The 3-in-1 milestone events that took place in CSU-Gonzaga ensure students, employees and partners of a more productive and sustainable development in next years to come.
Photos: MIS office and Paragon