BAGUIO CITY – Key stakeholders from government, industry, and the academe expressed their support for proposed amendments to the charter of the Cordillera State Institute of Technical Education (CSITE) during the Second Quarter Meeting of the CSITE Advisory Council held at the CSITE Main Campus Multipurpose Hall on June 18, 2026.
The meeting, presided over by CSITE Advisory Council Chairperson Anthony R. De Leon of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Baguio (HRAB), gathered representatives from TESDA-CAR, the Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Tourism, Department of Science and Technology, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the People Management Association of the Philippines-Baguio Benguet Chapter, and other partner organizations.
Among the key matters discussed was the proposed amendment to Republic Act No. 11192, which seeks to strengthen the institution and pave the way for its proposed conversion into the Cordillera State Polytechnic Institute (CSPI). Executive Director Daisy C. Bungallon presented the rationale for the amendments, citing the need for increased budgetary support, greater academic flexibility, and expanded opportunities for learners through bridge programs leading to bachelor’s degrees.
Council members also discussed the legislative prospects of the proposal and recognized the importance of sustaining TESDA’s regulatory functions while further institutionalizing training centers throughout the country. Following deliberations, the Council unanimously approved a resolution expressing support for the proposed amendments.
The Council likewise reviewed the salient features of the Adopt-A-School Program, including the incentives and documentary requirements for private sector participation. During the discussion, Executive Director Daisy C. Bungallon shared that Bayan Academy, through the BPI Foundation, had initiated exploratory discussions with CSITE regarding a possible partnership under the program, with initial interest focused on the institution’s campuses in Abra and Ifugao.
Discussions also covered the implementation status of the C-S-I-T-E Project conceptualized by the PMAP Baguio-Benguet Chapter. Annelyn M. Gaspili, Supervising TESD Specialist, reported that the project’s “Connect” component aims to strengthen awareness among local government units regarding CSITE’s programs and services while fostering strategic partnerships. The first activity under the initiative is scheduled to be conducted in Abra on July 9, 2026.
In recognition of the financial support extended to the institution, the Council approved a separate resolution commending the Provincial Government of Mountain Province for providing financial assistance amounting to Php500,000 to CSITE Mountain Province. Members also agreed to present a commemorative plaque as a symbol of appreciation for the province’s continued partnership with the institution.
Executive Director Bungallon emphasized the importance of collaboration among government agencies, industry partners, and educational institutions in advancing CSITE’s development initiatives and expanding opportunities for learners and communities across the Cordillera region.
The decisions reached during the Second Quarter Meeting underscore the Advisory Council’s role in providing strategic direction and fostering partnerships that support institutional growth, resource generation, and improved access to quality technical and vocational education for communities throughout the region.
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