Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College

Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College The official page of Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College, managed by the Office for Strategic Communication and Institutional Branding. Eric D. Apolonio P.

The Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC) was created by virtue of RA 8547 authored by the then Congressman of the 2nd District of Ilocos Sur, Hon. Singson converting the then Ilocos Sur Polytechnic College (ISPC) into a state college. The charter was signed into law by President Fidel V. Ramos on February 24, 1998. The then Ilocos Sur Polytechnic College was created by virtue of RA 7960 al

so authored by then Congressman Eric D. Singson and signed into law on March 29, 1995. The law converted the then Ilocos Sur Agricultural College (ISAC) into a polytechnic college integrating into it seven vocational-technical and general academic secondary schools in the second district of Ilocos Sur namely: Narvacan School of Fisheries NASOF), Southern Ilocos Sur School of Fisheries (SISSOF), Ilocos Sur Experimental Station and Pilot School of Cottage Industries (ISESPSCI), Tagudin General Comprehensive High School (TGCHS), Cervantes National Agro-Industrial School (CNAIS), Suyo National High School and Salcedo National High School. After its conversion into a state college, two of the campuses, Suyo Campus and Salcedo Campus, were reverted back to the Department of Education. ISPSC is a comprehensive six-campus institution of higher learning mandated to give professional and technical training both in the undergraduate and graduate levels in the fields of economics, agriculture, fishery, trade, home industry, engineering, education, forest research and conservation, management, finance, accounting and business administration, public administration and other fields as may be relevant, besides providing for the promotion of scientific and technological researches which the College deems necessary in carrying out its objectives. The main campus is situated in Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur and the five other campuses are strategically located in Candon City and the municipalities of Narvacan, Santiago, Tagudin, and Cervantes, in the second district of Ilocos Sur. Today, ISPSC offers accredited graduate programs in the fields of Education and Agriculture. The college also offers the following accredited undergraduate programs: Elementary and Secondary Teacher Education, Agriculture, Home Technology Education, Information Technology, Industrial Technology and Hotel and Restaurant Management. The first College Administrator was Mr. Labuanan, who served as Officer-in-Charge from February 24, 1998 to July 15, 1999. He served as Technical-Vocational Schools Superintendent of the then ISAC. He laid down the groundwork of the integration of the Ilocos Sur Polytechnic College. The first President of ISPSC, Dr. Alejandro V. Directo, pursued the “SMILE” principle which stands for the values sincerity, morality, integrity, loyalty, efficiency and effectiveness. He began his term as President on July 16, 1999 and was extended for a second term in 2003. Dr. Directo instituted the campus identity through the designation of a flagship program for each campus. He initiated the accreditation of degree programs offered by ISPSC as a means of achieving quality and excellence. The second President, Dr. Rafael B. Querubin, re-engineered the college to become more relevant and responsive. His term in January 1, 2008 and championed the “CHARMED” paradigm, a 7-point development agenda which calls for: Community Capability Building and Responsive Networking; Human Resources Development and Character Building; Aggressive Academic Achievement; Resource Generation and Wise Allocation of Resources; Maximized Use of Resources ad Effective Maintenance Program; E-Governance and Management; and, Developing Physical Facilities and Building Structures. He worked out for the development of a Medium Term Development Plan of the College (2011-2015), and instituted a new set-up for the college. The new college set-up produced two campus clusters: the North Cluster – consisting of Santa Maria, Santiago and Narvacan, and the South Cluster – consisting of Tagudin, Candon City and Cervantes. He emphasized on the cultivation of a research and development culture with the creation of the Office of Vice President for Planning, Research, Extension and Training. He also aggressively pushed for physical plant development. The main campus of ISPSC is the Santa Maria Campus which has been identified as the Provincial Institute of Agriculture. Santa Maria campus had its early beginnings as a farm school in 1913, then evolved into the Santa Maria Agricultural High School. In 1963, SMAHS was converted into the Ilocos Sur Agricultural College by virtue of RA 3529 authored by Congressman Pablo C. Sanidad. Then in 1995, it was converted into the Ilocos Sur Polytechnic College which was the precursor of the present ISPSC. The Narvacan Campus is formerly the Narvacan School of Fisheries which was established in 1964 by virtue of RA 3476 authored by Cong. Pablo C. Sanidad which was signed into law in June 16, 1962. When it was integrated into ISPSC, the Narvacan Campus became the College of Fisheries and Marine Science. Today, it is identified as the Provincial Institute of Fisheries. The Santiago Campus was formerly known as the Ilocos Sur Experimental Station and Pilot School of Cottage Industries (ISESPSCI) which was established by virtue of RA 4430 signed into law on June 19, 1965. It is situated on a 3.5 hectare area along the national highway in the municipality of Santiago, Ilocos Sur. When it was integrated into ISPSC, it became the College of Engineering and Technology. At present, Santiago Campus houses the College of Technology. Tagudin Campus is the seat of governance in the South Cluster. It was known formerly as the Tagudin General Comprehensive High School established which started as the Tagudin High School and became a national high school by virtue of RA 4447 which was signed into law in June 19, 1965. After its integration into ISPSC, it became the College of Arts and Sciences. Today it houses the College of Teacher Education, the College of Business and Hospitality Management, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the College of Information Technology. Candon City Campus was formerly the Southern Ilocos Sur School of Fisheries (SISSOF) which evolved from a fishery demonstration farm (Ilocos Sur Marine Demonstration Farm). It is located in the coastal barangay of Darapidap, Candon City. With its integration into the ISPSC, it became the College of Commercial and Social Services. At present Candon City Campus houses the College of Business and Hospitality Management. Cervantes Campus was formerly the Cervantes National Agro-Industrial School (CNAIS) which evolved from the Cervantes National School of Arts and Trades established by virtue of RA 4424 signed into law in June 19, 1965. It is located in a scenic upland municipality which is also a gateway to the Cordillera provinces. When it was integrated into ISPSC, it became the College of Agro-Industrial Technology. Presently, Cervantes Campus offers teacher education, information technology and hotel and restaurant management courses. Since the chartering of ISPSC in 1998, much had been accomplished in terms of academic and technical pursuits, facilities and plant development, research and extension services, community involvement, administration and governance, linkaging and networking, faculty and staff development, and student development. Guided by its vision as “an institution for total human development,” it continues to be a beacon of hope to the people in the service area and together thread the path towards greater heights.

Mothers are the heart of every family and the guiding light of every generation. Their unconditional love, strength, sac...
10/05/2026

Mothers are the heart of every family and the guiding light of every generation. Their unconditional love, strength, sacrifices, and support inspire us to become better individuals and shape a brighter future for society.

Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College stands with the whole world in celebrating motherhood and honoring all mothers and mother figures whose care and dedication continue to nurture homes, communities, and dreams.

Today, we express our deepest gratitude and appreciation for everything that mothers do each day.

Happy Mother’s Day!



𝗜𝗡 𝗣𝗛𝗢𝗧𝗢𝗦 | The 28th Commencement Exercises of ISPSC was not only a formal academic ceremony but also a collection of he...
06/05/2026

𝗜𝗡 𝗣𝗛𝗢𝗧𝗢𝗦 | The 28th Commencement Exercises of ISPSC was not only a formal academic ceremony but also a collection of heartfelt moments that reflected the culmination of years of perseverance and growth among the graduating class.

Moments of reflection and celebration unfolded as graduates looked back on their academic years. The presence of families, mentors, and peers added depth to the occasion, with expressions of joy, gratitude, and pride.



𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | ISPSC confers degrees to 3,820 graduates; 443 earn Latin honors in 28th commencement exercisesThe Ilocos Sur Poly...
06/05/2026

𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | ISPSC confers degrees to 3,820 graduates; 443 earn Latin honors in 28th commencement exercises

The Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC) awarded degrees to 3,820 graduates, 443 of whom earned Latin honors, during its 28th Commencement Exercises on May 6 at the Candon City Arena.

Of the honor graduates, seven earned Summa Cum Laude distinctions, 107 graduated Magna Cum Laude, and 329 received Cum Laude honors.

Led by ISPSC President Mario P. Obrero, the conferment ceremony formally granted degrees to the graduates, recognizing the completion of their academic requirements. The graduating class was composed of candidates from the College’s seven campuses: Main, Candon, Tagudin, Cervantes, Santiago, Sta. Maria, and Narvacan.

Delivering the commencement address, Hon. Stephanie F. Christiansen, Director IV of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) - Regional Office I, encouraged graduates to translate their knowledge into meaningful service and nation-building.

“Our times need a generation who can think clearly and act honorably. This is why your education matters,” she said.

She also addressed the Class of 2026 to not be afraid to commit mistakes and stay curious and grounded.

Candon City Mayor Eric D. Singson, in his message, commended the graduates for their perseverance and underscored the city’s strong support to ISPSC.

“Strive not only for success, but for significance. And know that Candon City will always stand proud, not only of what you have become, but of what you continue to build,” he highlighted.

Meanwhile, Hon. Eva Marie Medina, a member of the ISPSC Board of Trustees, and Dir. Marina Garcia of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) Field Office 1, also graced the event.

Dr. Filipinas M. Gasalao, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Jonathan L. Dela Cruz, Vice President for Finance and Administration; and Dr. Jocelyn L. Absolor, Vice President for Research and Extension, together with the campus directors: Dr. Sheryl S. Morata (Main Campus), Dr. Annie D. Dorada (Candon Campus), Dr. Jeanno M. Manzano (Santa Maria Campus), Atty. Jose Q. Cabatu (Narvacan Campus), Dr. Allan O. Ramos (Santiago Campus), Dr. Daniel Juan B. Ramirez (Tagudin Campus), and Dr. Heidi Joy P. Bautista (Cervantes Campus) were in attendance. The College’s teaching and non-teaching personnel, and other key officials were also present. (𝘑𝘎𝘗)



06/05/2026

𝗪𝗔𝗧𝗖𝗛 | Highlights from the ISPSC 28th Commencement Exercises at the Candon City Arena, captured and released on the same day by the Office for Strategic Communication and Institutional Branding.

Congratulations, Class of 2026!





Music: Golden – Huntrix | Epic Orchestra Cover by Multiverse Orchestra

Source: https://youtu.be/YNyILzQ5_lQ?si=0F_ZRVCNPrYFIEnk

𝗜𝗦𝗣𝗦𝗖 𝗔𝗡𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗔𝗥 - 𝟮𝟴𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗘𝘅𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗲 – 𝗠𝗮𝘆 𝟲, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲Here is a special issue of the ISPSC Anaraar, the...
06/05/2026

𝗜𝗦𝗣𝗦𝗖 𝗔𝗡𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗔𝗥 - 𝟮𝟴𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗘𝘅𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗲 – 𝗠𝗮𝘆 𝟲, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲

Here is a special issue of the ISPSC Anaraar, the official publication of the Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College, featuring the 28th Commencement Exercises held on May 6, 2026, at the Candon City Arena.

Highlights include featured stories of graduates and key moments from the commencement exercises and recognition rites across the College’s seven campuses: Main, Candon, Tagudin, Cervantes, Santiago, Sta. Maria, and Narvacan.

You may read the newsletter through this link: https://online.fliphtml5.com/rbuuq/ISPSC-ANARAAR/

You may also scan the QR code in the image to access it easily on your mobile device.

This special release is brought to you by the ISPSC Office for Strategic Communication and Institutional Branding.



𝗙𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗘 | TOPpling the “Perfect” Trap𝘉𝘺 𝘔𝘪𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘦 𝘝. 𝘉𝘦𝘭𝘰, 𝘊𝘩𝘪𝘦𝘧 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘐𝘯𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘚𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘴There are victories that arrive ...
06/05/2026

𝗙𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗘 | TOPpling the “Perfect” Trap
𝘉𝘺 𝘔𝘪𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘦 𝘝. 𝘉𝘦𝘭𝘰, 𝘊𝘩𝘪𝘦𝘧 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘐𝘯𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘚𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘴

There are victories that arrive with thunder - loud, expected, rehearsed. Yet, there are victories that arrive quietly, in ways others may not see.

It begins not on a grand stage, but inside a home where dreams were never extravagant. In a place with a mother who serves as a teacher at Oaig Daya Elementary School and a father who earns livelihood as a tricycle driver, she considers herself fortunate to have parents who provide them with what they need and support them without pressure. Though their home lacks extravagance, it overflows with warmth and mutual respect that served as her greatest motivation to strive for success.

From that quiet beginning grew a student named Erika Kate Galang, who learned to WIN and to ALWAYS WIN.

For years, excellence came easy. Honors were no longer milestones but were already natural. The classrooms became her battlefield, grades became measures of her worth, and perfection became her silent contract that one could not break. Back in primary school she graduated salutatorian. During her secondary, she got into a Special Science class and graduated with honors.

Until, one day, winning has lost its grip.

The world shifted during the pandemic. The once vibrant classrooms turned into isolated screens and silent modules. The energy that once fueled ambition faded into stillness. Alone in a room, her mind grew louder and doubt echoed where confidence once stood.

A sudden number, small enough to fit on paper, impacted her built identity. It was not just a grade, it was a fracture. A moment where everything carefully built began to tremble. There were tears and questions. A quiet panic that whispered her fear of failure.

And for the first time, there was no immediate answer. She didn’t know how it feels to fail because all she had ever known was to win, to succeed.

But something unexpected happened in that silence.

Failure, once feared, began to speak differently.
It no longer sounded like an ending.
It began to sound like PERMISSION.

Permission to breathe.
Permission to pause.
Permission to exist beyond achievement.

Slowly, the narrative changed.

The student who once chased perfection began to loosen her grip on it. She discovered that learning does not always happen in pressure, and that rest is not the enemy of success. She realized that sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is step away and scroll for a while, laugh at something trivial, and allow your mind to reset.

Carrying that newfound strength, she enrolled in Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College - Main Campus with the course Bachelor of Political Science despite people’s judgments treating it like a step down and not worthy of her record. Yet, this became her strongest fuel proving it was the perfect fit and could be a means of finally losing her grip on perfection.

The girl who was so uptight and obsessed with every grade started to chill out big time, but with that extra drive fueling her. As that famous song puts it, “Que Sera, Sera,” which means “whatever will be, will be” in English.

She no longer forced herself to study when not in the mood and allowed herself to slack off when she needed to without guilt.

It was not laziness.
It was balance.
It was growth.

And with that shift came something even more powerful than perfection…FREEDOM.

Freedom to choose a path that others questioned.
Freedom to pursue Political Science despite raised eyebrows and lowered expectations.
Freedom to prove that excellence is not confined to always winning, but defined by imperfections.

And suddenly, the story changed again.

Opportunities in competitions opened, from an academic quiz bowl to an internalization program organized by the Director of ITS Global Engagement from Surabaya, Indonesia, where she earned recognition as one of the four top participants among over 100 students from around the world.

Leadership roles followed her. From serving the student body through pivotal leadership roles in the League of United Political Science Students and College of Arts and Sciences Students Federated Organization.

While many people ponder on the management of the balance of the demands of student life with such intensive leadership responsibilities, her sincerity in serving the student body combined with her laid-back study practice makes everything feel bearable.
Ironically, it was only when she stopped trying to be perfect that she became something more.

Whole.

And then came the moment no one, not even her saw coming. As she says, “Good things happen when you least expect it.”

FIRST.

Not just in class.
Not just in her program.
But in the whole Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College.

A title that once seemed reserved for “someone else” now belonged to the girl who once cried over a sudden failure.

Once she remembered a casual moment in a third-year classroom, carried by curiosity and lighthearted speculation.

“Sino ngata ti agbalin a valedictorian ‘diay batch-tayo?” a schoolmate asked.

The question lingered in the air, but the answer came with a shrug. There were too many brilliant students, too many names worthy of the title. Predicting who would rise above the rest felt unnecessary.
Becoming valedictorian was never the goal. It was simply the outcome of showing up, again and again, without the pressure of outperforming others but only the quiet determination to be free in life.

And standing at the peak that was never climbed with intention, one realization becomes clear:

Sometimes, the greatest victories are the ones you never think to chase.

It was no longer about proving something to the world.
It was about understanding something within herself.

That worth is not measured in numbers. That failure does not erase identity. And that success, when rooted in balance and self-acceptance, feels lighter, truer.

A success made possible through her mother’s quiet sacrifices, her father’s long drives, her sisters’ shared laughter, her friends’ unwavering presence, and her mentors’ steady guidance.

And in the moments she thought she was falling apart, she discovered that in fact, she was just being rebuilt.

Erika’s story is not just a story about graduating TOP of the class or being a consistent LEADER. It is a story about redefining what it means to be PERFECT. Because the most powerful stories are not written by those who never failed but by those who learned, at last, how to breathe through it.



06/05/2026

𝗪𝗔𝗧𝗖𝗛 | Live from the Candon City Arena, the Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC) holds its 28th Commencement Exercises with the theme “Woven Legacy, Flourishing Onwards UIP”.

This livestreaming is brought to you by the ISPSC Office for Strategic Communication and Institutional Branding, in partnership with the LGU Candon City and DZTP Radyo Tirad Pass.



Grounded in public service and inspired by community, the City Mayor’s message stood as a powerful call to action for th...
06/05/2026

Grounded in public service and inspired by community, the City Mayor’s message stood as a powerful call to action for the graduating class.

The words reflect a vision of progress where the graduates will soon play a vital role in shaping a better future.



From stories of experience to lessons forged through time, our Guest Speaker delivered words that echoed beyond the cere...
06/05/2026

From stories of experience to lessons forged through time, our Guest Speaker delivered words that echoed beyond the ceremony.

As our graduates step into new beginnings, these insights serve as guiding reminders that success is not merely achieved but continuously built through resilience and belief in one’s path.



What was spoken in a moment now lingers for a lifetime.Reflect on the words that once lived in a speech and now live on ...
06/05/2026

What was spoken in a moment now lingers for a lifetime.

Reflect on the words that once lived in a speech and now live on as reminders from the Class Valedictorian of ISPSC Batch 2026.



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San Nicolas
Candon
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