January 24, 2026 — The School of Graduate Studies and Research (SGSR) of the Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa, Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT) conducted its Orientation Seminar for the Second Trimester of School Year 2025–2026 to formally welcome and orient graduate students on the institution’s academic programs, policies, and support services.
Formerly known as the Graduate School, the SGSR organized the activity to acquaint students with DEBESMSCAT’s strengthened graduate education and research framework. The seminar gathered more than 300 graduate students, both onsite and online.
Dr. Rodolfo B. Burac, Jr., Vice President for Research, Development, Extension, Innovation, Creative Works, and Knowledge Management, and OIC Vice President for Academic Affairs, formally welcomed the participants and underscored the importance of research-driven and quality-assured graduate education.
In his message, DEBESMSCAT President Dr. Arnel B. Millesca shared key institutional updates and outlined the strategic direction of DEBESMSCAT’s graduate programs. He emphasized the college’s strengthened academic and research initiatives under the SGSR and expressed gratitude to the students for their trust and confidence in choosing DEBESMSCAT for their advanced studies.
SGSR Dean Dr. Bernard M. Barruga presented the academic policies and procedures governing graduate programs, ensuring students’ clear understanding of academic standards and requirements.
Dr. Burac also presented the college’s new Vision, Mission, Quality Policy, and Core Values under the Board of Trustees-approved Strategic Development Plan for 2026–2030. As the ISO focal person, he further provided an orientation on the institution’s ISO quality management system to promote awareness of quality assurance among graduate students.
Student support services were discussed by key college officials, including Ms. Melba Magnifico, College Registrar, who presented registration services; Ms. Rusiel Ogaya, College Nurse, who discussed medical services; and Mr. Joseph Valencia, the designated College Guidance Counselor, who outlined available guidance and counseling services.
In the afternoon session, Dr. Sherwin E. Balbuena, SGSR Research Coordinator, discussed research opportunities and processes available to graduate students. Extension opportunities and processes were also presented by Mr. Edwin Alcantara, SGSR Extension Coordinator.
The seminar concluded with a comprehensive discussion on the DEBESMSCAT Intellectual Property Policy, led by Engr. Marco Angelo Dejucos, Director of the Intellectual Property and Technology Business Management (IPTBM), followed by an open forum where students raised questions and concerns.
The orientation reinforced DEBESMSCAT’s commitment to delivering quality graduate education anchored on research excellence, innovation, and responsive student services.
Ladies and gentlemen,
