Mayor Maria Theresa Royo Timbol visited the Municipality of La Castellana in Negros Occidental as the guest of honor and keynote speaker for the opening and launching of the Colegio de la Castellana (CLC)—a local college that promises to shape the future of its community through education, August 12, 2024.
The visit marked a significant milestone for the Municipality of La Castellana, as officials from the municipality undertook a benchmarking activity at Kapalong College of Agriculture, Sciences, and Technology (KCAST) two (2) years ago. Drawing inspiration from their visit, the Municipality of La Castellana took the bold step of establishing their very own local college, the Colegio de la Castellana.
The event was divided into two parts, with the morning session featuring the turnover of important documents from CHED- RO VI by Regional Director Raul C. Alvarez.
Director Alvarez in his turn-over speech, imparted valuable insights to the incoming 1st year college students, emphasizing the essential qualities of communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. He underscored the important role that students play in the success and advancement of the institution.
In a heartwarming gesture, Mayor Alme Rhummayla Nicor-Mangilimutan expressed gratitude to Mayor Timbol for graciously sharing her knowledge and expertise in establishing the overall operation of KCAST. The insights gained from this exchange served as a solid foundation for the establishment of the Colegio de la Castellana in the Municipality of La Castellana.
As the second part commences, Mayor Maria Theresa Timbol shared an inspirational statement, urging the students and faculty of CLC to strive for excellence and to embrace the challenges that come their way. She emphasized the transformative power of education in shaping individuals and communities, encouraging everyone to work together towards a brighter future.
“I believe that education is the great equalizer at ito ang patuloy na misyon ng KCAST. Education is the great equalizer of society. It can change a life. It can lift an individual, and a family, out of poverty and ignorance”, Mayor Timbol said in her statement.
Mayor Timbol also presented the accomplishments of KCAST in almost two (2) decades, highlighting the following:
1. Producing 5,282 graduates, 1,200 board passers, and 3 top notchers over the last 19 years;
2. ALCUCOA ACCREDITED- LEVEL II & with the most number of accredited programs among local colleges in Davao Region;
3. The largest local college in Davao Region in terms of program offering and student population;
4. The heart of the province in terms of providing education to different geographic areas;
5. More than 100 industry and internship partners;
6. Affiliated with various scholarship programs;
7. Awardee for various programs in health, employment facilitation, and other services.
The mayor also shared how Director Alvarez helped LGU Kapalong revive KCAST as it was advised to be closed.
“Beyond circumstances, isa rin sa haligi ng KCAST ay si Director Raul Alvarez, na kami ay tinulungan na macomply ang requirements ng CHED noong sya ang Regional Director ng Davao Region", Mayor Timbol underscored.
Director Alvarez was instrumental in developing KCAST for many years; from 180 students on its first-year operation until now that has already 7,800 students.
“Indeed, he [Director Alvarez] is the true and responsible father of KCAST”, Mayor Timbol added.
The visit of Mayor Maria Theresa Timbol to the Colegio de la Castellana was a moment of collaboration, learning, and empowerment, symbolizing the unwavering commitment of local leaders to education and progress in their respective communities.
In her closing, she said,” This event marks the beginning of our journey as partners. We will be active and engaged, and this is just the start. If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself"
