The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) has secured a P1.89 million Rotary International Global Grant to modernize its automotive training facilities, a milestone that promises to enhance technical education and workforce readiness in Iloilo.
 
This hopes to equip ISUFST’s College of Industrial Technology (CIT) with industry-grade automotive tools and machinery, benefiting students and the broader community. The project is set for full use by April 2025, with turnover rites tentatively scheduled on March 27, 2025 at the ISUFST Main Campus.
 
“This grant is a major step in our commitment to quality, industry-relevant education,” said Dr. Nordy D. Siason, Jr., ISUFST President. “It strengthens our ability to produce skilled, globally competitive graduates.”
 
This grant, made possible through ISUFST’s collaboration with the Rotary Clubs of Iloilo and Namweon Central (South Korea), is designed to bridge the automotive skills gap by providing students with hands-on training using modern technology. Both clubs played a crucial role in crafting a strong proposal and raising the necessary financial counterpart required for the Rotary Grant process to bring the project to fruition.
 
Beyond the current leadership of the three institutions, several key individuals also contributed significantly to making this initiative a reality, including Past Rotary Club of Iloilo President Engr. Jesus Anayas, Past Governor Rtn. John Michael Ng, Korean Rtn. Hongjae Mark Jeong, and former ISUFST CIT Dean Irvin Haro.
 
“This is more than just providing equipment—it is about empowering students with skills that create better opportunities,” said Atty. Peter John Raymund Pacheco, President of the Rotary Club of Iloilo and member of the ISUFST Board of Regents.
 
Upgrading ISUFST’s Automotive Training Facilities
 
The grant will fund the acquisition of cutting-edge automotive equipment, including a Heavy-Duty Electric Car Post-Type Lifter, a Light-Duty Electric Car Scissor-Type Lifter, Diesel Engines with Computer Boxes and Harnesses, Gasoline Engines with Computer Boxes and Harnesses, TIG/MIG Welding Machines, Portable Welding Machines, Acetylene Welding Machines, and a Digital Oscilloscope Dual Trace.
 
“This project goes beyond upgrading equipment—it is about transforming education through hands-on training,” said Dr. Rodel Dosano, CIT Dean. “We’re committed to maximizing this grant to equip students with skills that prepare them for the real world.”
 
Creating Opportunities for Decent Work and Local Entrepreneurs
 
For Dr. Herman Lagon, the Primary Rotarian Proponent of the grant and a faculty of ISUFST, the project is a game-changer for local employment and entrepreneurship. “This grant is a relief and a great opportunity for our present and future students and extension beneficiaries. With advanced training facilities, they can build careers and even start businesses, creating jobs and strengthening the local economy,” he shared.
 
Scores of Korean and Ilonggo Rotarians, along with ISUFST officials, faculty, and students, will attend the turnover ceremony. After the formal handover, a fellowship dinner will be held to foster deeper connections between the Rotary and ISUFST communities.
 
AIM Iloilo: Building a Sustainable Future
 
The initiative is part of AIM Iloilo (Automotive Industry Modernization Project), a three-year extension program designed to train over 300 students and community members, enhance faculty expertise in automotive technology, and establish sustainable automotive services for local residents.
 
“This project is about lasting impact,” said Dr. Siason who is also a member of RC Iloilo. “We’re not just teaching students—we’re preparing them to shape Iloilo’s workforce. This grant is an investment in education and a commitment to empowering ISUFST and the local community for years to come.”
 
It is worth noting that a multi-party Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the grant was signed last October 3, 2024, right after the site inspection at ISUFST and during a formal gathering at the Diversion 21 Hotel, Mandurriao, Iloilo City. Aside from ISUFST led by Dr. Siason, the landmark signing ceremony was also attended by about 50 Rotarians and Rotary Annes, including former District Governors “Kano” Ng and Ramon Cua Locsin, alongside seven Korean Rotarians from District 3620, led by Mr. Wang Hee Kim, Global Grant Chairperson of Namweon Central, and Rotary Club of Iloilo from District 3850 led by President Pacheco.
 
With the funding secured and implementation underway, ISUFST is set to redefine technical education, equip future professionals, and fuel economic growth in the region. Jhomar Baladhay and Herman Lagon/PAMMCO