July 21, 2025 — In an initiative to bring advanced academic opportunities closer to communities, the Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa, Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT) conducted a Graduate School Orientation on July 21, 2025, at the Municipality of Cawayan, Masbate, Liga ng mga Barangay Building.
The orientation, which introduced the graduate program offerings of the institution, was spearheaded by DEBESMSCAT SUC President III Dr. Arnel Millesca, together with the Graduate School Dean Dr. Bernard M. Barruga, Cawayan Campus Administrator Ms. Iris Castillo, and MAEd Mathematics Program Chair Dr. Nedie B. Sevilla.
Among the local stakeholders present were Cawayan SB Member Relan O. Abinuman, Chair of the Committee on Education who represented Mayor Edgar S. Condor; heads and staff of the LGU; personnel from the Bureau of Fire Protection; and numerous teachers from the Department of Education.
The session provided a comprehensive introduction to DEBESMSCAT’s graduate school offerings, including available programs, faculty line-up, academic requirements, and the admission process.
An open forum also allowed prospective students and local leaders to raise questions and share suggestions for collaborative academic development.
During the discussion, an initial plan was also shared regarding the possibility of the Local Government Unit of Cawayan sponsoring the graduate studies of qualified constituents. This initiative, led by their Local Chief Executive Mayor Condor, is now awaiting the passage of a local ordinance to formalize and implement the scholarship program. Should it be approved, Cawayan will become the first LGU in Masbate and the entire Bicol Region to institutionalize such a groundbreaking support system for education, setting a precedent in empowering local human capital and building a culture of academic advancement through local government support.
This initiative underscores DEBESMSCAT’s firm commitment to expanding access to quality and inclusive education, supporting lifelong learning, and enhancing professional advancement for educators and civil servants in local communities. It also promotes inclusive participation in local development, supports gender equality in academic opportunities, and fosters institutional partnerships that strengthen public service delivery.
Moreover, by decentralizing educational access, DEBESMSCAT contributes to making Cawayan communities more resilient, empowered, and knowledge-driven, building stronger institutions through transparency, collaboration, and community engagement.
Ladies and gentlemen,
