Virac, Catanduanes – In response to the news about Virgilio Cortado’s oath-taking as President of the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Student Council, CatSU President Patrick Allain Azanza clarified that the university’s Board of Regents has not yet issued a final decision regarding Cortado’s qualifications to officially assume the role of Student Council President and Student Regent.
The oath-taking, conducted by Virac Mayor Samuel Laynes, is not recognized by the CatSU Board of Regents, which is the highest policymaking body of the university.
Azanza expressed doubts about Mayor Laynes’ authority to preside over the oath-taking and highlighted questions regarding its legality. “We are unaware under what authority the Mayor conducted this oath-taking and the legality of such an action affecting university operations, which is governed by its own Charter separate from the Local Government Unit,” Azanza stated.
He further noted that the application of provisions under the Administrative Code in this matter remains unresolved, as the Board of Regents is still investigating Cortado’s qualifications. “This differs from the situation of an elected student leader with no issues regarding their qualifications,” Azanza emphasized.
The CatSU administration is awaiting a final decision from the Board of Regents, which has formed an independent committee to review Cortado’s eligibility. Azanza urged prompt action from the Board to clarify the situation and guide the next steps, stressing the importance of proper procedures and adherence to university regulations.
“We hope that the CatSU Board of Regents will provide a timely decision on this matter so that we can proceed accordingly,” Azanza concluded, calling for patience while the board reviews the situation. (BP NEWS TEAM)
