Writer: Rhea Marie O. Jongco
Photographers: Ralph Dale D. Ramirez and Edilberto B. Mendez, Jr.
The J.H. Cerilles State College (JHCSC) community gathered for its first-ever General Assembly on March 14, 2025, at the Main Campus Gymnasium in Mati, San Miguel, Zamboanga del Sur. Led by President Dr. Edgardo H. Rosales, the historic event brought together regular employees, Contract of Service (COS), Job Orders (JOs), and Visiting Lecturers (VLs) from CMSE, Pagadian, Dumingag, and the Main Campus. The assembly aimed to strengthen communication, present institutional goals, and address employee concerns.
Dr. Patricia D. Bahian, Pagadian Campus Director, welcomed the attendees, emphasizing unity in fulfilling JHCSCโs mission. โYour presence here proves our unity and dedication to providing quality education,โ she stated. The gathering served as a platform for institutional updates, leadership discussions, and employee engagement.
Dr. Cleofe A. Baterna Jr., Planning and Development Office (PDO) Director presented the 2025 institutional targets and revised organizational structure. The Vice Presidents, Dr. Vilma C. Grengia, VPAA, Dr. Jerry B. Superales, VPRERG, and Mr. Wilfredo M. Barnido, Jr. VPAF, outlined strategies to improve operational efficiency and addressed the issues, concerns, and challenges.
Mr. Kim M. Borja, HRMO III, shared updates on human resource policies, including COS guidelines and Civil Service Commission regulations. Dr. Trinidad C. Abapo, Gender and Development (GAD) Office Director and newly designated Main Campus Director discussed ongoing GAD initiatives. An open forum followed, allowing employees to raise concerns directly with the vice presidents. The event also featured the introduction of designated officials under the new organizational structure in recognition of their roles.
A key highlight was President Rosalesโ presentation of the JHCSC Strategic Shift for FY 2025โ2030, which assessed institutional performance in instruction, research, extension, production, and governance. Reviewing the strategic goals set in 2019, he emphasized sustainable growth, enhanced academic services, and improved governance as priorities for the coming years.
A surprise celebration marked President Rosalesโ 55th birthday, featuring a heartfelt video presentation from the JHCSC community. Thankful for the gesture, he reaffirmed his dedication to the institutionโs growth. โWe have so many dreams to share, but they will not become a reality if we are not properly informed if we do not participate, collaborate, and act,โ he stated. He encouraged the JHCSC community to unite in shaping the institutionโs future, emphasizing its vision for sustained growth and excellence over the next six years.
Soar high, J.H. Cerilles State College!
“Stronger and Bolder JHCSC for Quality Tertiary Education”