The Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST) conducted the Presidential Aspirants’ Public Presentation Forum today, January 22, 2025, at the MCLL Gymnasium.

The aspirants for the presidency included:

1. Rody P. Garcia, the newly installed Regional Director for CHEDRO XIII

2. Dr. Alvin C. Reyes, Vice President for Administration and Finance at ZSCMST

3. Dr. Roy L. Valesco, Vice President for Academic Affairs at ZPPSU

Each candidate delivered a 10-minute presentation outlining their vision and mission for ZSCMST. They proposed unique strategies for achieving academic excellence, focusing on critical areas such as research development, innovation, and capacity building to solidify the College’s position as a leading center of marine sciences and technology.

An interactive public forum followed, featuring a question-and-answer session. Representatives from various sectors of the ZSCMST community—non-teaching personnel, faculty, students, and alumni—posed questions to the aspirants. These inquiries focused on how the candidates plan to address pressing institutional challenges, including improving facilities, supporting professional development opportunities for personnel, increasing income-generating initiatives, and fostering international collaborations for career growth.

Additional questions from esteemed guests and audience members addressed topics such as strengthening research and academic programs, demonstrating effective leadership, and ensuring good governance. The candidates shared their insights on championing innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development to elevate ZSCMST’s standing.

The forum underscored the democratic spirit of ZSCMST, ensuring that all stakeholders have a voice in shaping the College’s future. As the institution advances in the selection process, this event provided valuable insights into the candidates’ leadership capabilities and their commitment to advancing ZSCMST’s mission and vision.