In the context of innovation and cultural preservation, Central Philippines State University takes pride in sharing its renowned products to the national audience, such as the Rainforest coffee, muscovado sugar, naturally-grown black rice, scarf, shawl, and essential oil made from Citronella and Lemon Grass, among others during the annual SUC Fair organized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) last July 10-13, 2023 at SM City, Iloilo.
With the theme, “Navigating the Global Landscape through Innovations, Cultural and Arts Preservation, and Higher Education Quality,” the event aimed to celebrate the vital role that State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) play in fostering academic excellence, building a sense of community, and embracing innovation, diversity and inclusion.
This year’s Fair is hosted by the West Visayas State University (WVSU) led by its president Dr. Joselito Villaruz. It was participated in by SUCs across the country which also showcased their products and innovative outputs, creativity and artistry, and unique items through booth exhibits.
In the opening ceremonies, Hon. Raul Alvarez, Jr. Director IV, CHEDRO VI, warmly welcomed everyone and highlighted how this annual gathering serves as a powerful platform to celebrate excellence in higher education, promote academic opportunities, and foster a sense of community engagement.
Further, Hon. J. Prospero De Vera, III, chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), gave his message and did the honors of doing the declaration of the opening of the SUC Fair 2023, while leading the ribbon-cutting is First Lady Marie Louise "Liza" Araneta Marcos.
In his message, Chair De Vera emphasized how the event brings together SUCs from different parts of the country and be able to connect with the wider community, inspiring and empowering students to pursue higher education and contribute to the collective progress of society.
Activities in the entire duration of the event included Fair on Innovation, Research, and Extension Services Technology; Innovation Pitching; Digital Arts Competition; Songwriting Competition; Vlog Entry Competition on Best Practices in Pursuit of World-Class Higher Education; Youthpreneurship Competition; Same-event Edit; and the Search for Mr. and Ms. SUC Fair 2023.
CPSU delegates who represented the University were Dr. Aladino Moraca, president, together with Dr. Hanzel Pedrosa, CAF dean, Dr. Jimmy Degillo, ECSO director, Dr. Maryvic Pedrosa, PEDO director, Engr. Janet Serisola, IPMO director, Dr. Flora Carpio, DCIO director, Dr. Noel Dayono, GAD director, Dr. Alejandro Nalagon, DRRM director, Dr. Mary Ann Dagunan, Sir Jundel Gonzaga, and Mrs. Genalin Mangao, CAF faculty, Ms. Mary Germi Calalas, CAS faculty, along with other CPSU staff.
By. J.A. Emoy
Photos: M. Pedrosa, G. Mangao, F. Carpio, RMSFM