In a pivotal address delivered on July 18, 2025, Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) President Dr. Dennis C. de Paz formally unveiled the institution’s driven initiative to become the National University for Resiliency and Climate Action (NORCA), marking a transformative moment in the university’s long-term vision. Held at the EVSU-Ormoc Campus, the event gathered students, faculty, administrative staff, and university officials, including the incoming and outgoing campus directors. Dr. de Paz emphasized the university’s alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action) and outlined a comprehensive roadmap involving all campuses and sectors of the EVSU system. “We are located in a region frequently struck by natural calamities. Yet, we remain standing—producing quality research and education,” Dr. de Paz said. “This alone is a testament to our resilience. Let us now take this strength and direct our efforts toward leading in climate action, not only in the country but across Asia.” The proposal includes integrating climate resiliency into research, extension activities, and the curriculum. Dr. de Paz underscored the need for collective action, encouraging faculty to align all academic outputs with SDG 13, citing its interconnectedness with all other global goals. The announcement also included updates on the Center of Development applications for engineering programs at EVSU-Ormoc. Due to pending requirements, certain engineering programs will be temporarily supervised by the main campus, with formal enrollment centralized there starting September 2025. Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Lydia M. Morante confirmed revisions in the grading system and uniform policy, aiming to create more inclusive, responsive, and quality-focused policies. The event also saw a leadership transition as outgoing Campus Director Dr. Jeffry V. Ocay formally passed the role to Dr. Maricel Gomez, who begins her tenure on August 8. In an emotional acceptance speech, Dr. Gomez expressed humility and resolve, sharing her journey from Leyte Normal University (LNU) to EVSU and affirming her commitment to elevate the campus. “This is not a position I sought, but one I accept with sincere gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility,” Dr. Gomez said. “Together, through excellence, vision, systems, and unity—EVSU will lead in service and innovation.” The program concluded with reaffirmations from university leaders to support this institutional shift, emphasizing collaboration, academic integrity, and community-centered action. As EVSU embarks on its NORCA journey, the university stands poised to redefine the role of higher education in building climate-resilient communities across the region and beyond.
: T.M. Ymas
: T.M. Ymas
