December 16, 2025 – The Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa, Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT) successfully conducted its 113th Board of Trustees (BOT) Meeting at the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Central Office.
The meeting marked a significant milestone for the institution as it was the first BOT meeting presided over by the newly designated Chairperson of the DEBESMSCAT Board of Trustees, Commissioner Desiderio R. Apag III. His leadership ushers in a new chapter for the governing board, reinforcing CHED’s continued guidance and support toward institutional development, good governance, and quality higher education.
Adding to the importance of the occasion was the oath-taking of the newly elected DEBESMSCAT Faculty Association President and Faculty Trustee, Dr. Ulysis L. Ferreras. His formal assumption to office as Faculty Trustee ensures stronger faculty representation in policy-making and decision processes at the board level, further strengthening shared governance within the institution.
During the meeting, the Board discussed key agenda items vital to the continuous growth, academic excellence, and strategic direction of DEBESMSCAT. The BOT reaffirmed its commitment to upholding transparency, accountability, and responsive leadership in advancing the institution’s mandate to deliver accessible and quality education.
The meeting was attended by key members of the Board of Trustees, including Dr. Arnel B. Millesca, Vice Chairperson and SUC President III, alongside Hon. Al Orlanes, Private Sector Representative, and Hon. Zaira S. Maglente, Student Trustee. Their presence reflected the collective commitment of various sectors in steering the College toward sustained growth and relevance.
Several trustees also joined the meeting virtually via Zoom, demonstrating the Board’s adaptability and inclusivity. Among them were RD Rommel R. Serrano, Regional Director of DOST Region V; Hon. Igmedio Camposano Ret.Judge, Private Sector Representative; Representative of the Chairperson, Senate Committee on Higher, Technical and Vocational Education Hon. Cong. Elisa Olga Kho; RD Edna Cynthia S. Berces of the Department of Economy, Planning and Development Region V; and RED Rodel P. Tornilla, Regional Executive Director of the DA Regional Field Office V.
The successful conduct of the 113th Board of Trustees Meeting highlights DEBESMSCAT’s steadfast pursuit of institutional transformation, collaborative leadership, and sustained excellence in public higher education.
Ladies and gentlemen,
