The Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST) proudly welcomed its 6th College President, Dr. Roy L. Valesco, during a formal Turnover Ceremony held on March 14, 2025, at the MCLL Gymnasium, ZSCMST. The event was attended by distinguished guests, faculty, staff, and students.

The Vice President for Administration and Finance, Dr. Alvin C. Reyes, delivered the Welcome Remarks. In his speech, he expressed gratitude to the outgoing OIC President, Mr. Roderick D. Trio, for his dedicated service and leadership. He also encouraged the ZSCMST community to work harder and collectively support Dr. Valesco’s leadership in achieving the college’s shared vision for growth and progress.

Following this, Mr. Roderick D. Trio, MAEd, the outgoing OIC-College President, delivered an inspirational message. He shared heartfelt words, saying, “Today is a moment of both reflection and gratitude. As I stand before you one last time as your OIC-College President, I am filled with immense appreciation for the trust, support, and dedication that each of you has shown throughout my tenure. Leading this institution has been an honor and a privilege… As I pass this responsibility to our incoming President, Dr. Roy Lim Valesco, I do so with great confidence. I believe that under your leadership, ZSCMST will continue to thrive, evolve, and achieve greater heights.”

Meanwhile, Hon. Ethel Agnes P. Valenzuela, Commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education, encouraged the ZSCMST community to continue working harmoniously to ensure the success and advancement of the institution, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving collective goals.

Dr. Roy L. Valesco responded with an acceptance speech with a poignant message, stating, “This turnover ceremony signifies more than just a transition of leadership; it is a call to action. It is an invitation to embrace transformation, innovation, and collective progress. As education continues to evolve at a rapid pace, we must adapt and grow alongside it. To stay competitive and relevant, we must challenge outdated practices, implement necessary reforms, and revamp systems that no longer serve our institution’s best interest… As I take on this responsibility, I do so with a vision of an institution that not only honors its tradition but also relentlessly pursues growth and progress.”

Finally, Dr. Rachel D. Lauriaga, Vice President for Academic Affairs, emphasized in her closing remarks that the arrival of Dr. Roy L. Valesco marks the beginning of a new era of unity and progress for ZSCMST. She expressed optimism and excitement for the innovation and transformation that the new leadership would bring.

The Turnover Ceremony at ZSCMST marked a pivotal moment of transition as Dr. Roy L. Valesco officially assumed the role of the 6th College President. With his vision for transformation and progress, the institution stands prepared to embrace new challenges and opportunities in pursuit of academic excellence and institutional growth.