Virac, Catanduanes – Virgilio Jr. S. Cortado took his oath as President of the Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Student Council before Virac Mayor Samuel Laynes, due to the deferment of his original oath-taking by CatSU President Patrick Allain Azanza.
The postponement was necessitated by the Board of Regents’ decision to investigate the uncontested results of the March 2024 election.
Cortado cited Section 41 of Executive Order No. 292, the Administrative Code of 1987, as amended by Republic Acts 6733 and 10755, as the basis for his decision to take the oath before the mayor. This provision allows for administrative adjustments and accommodations under special circumstances, such as the current situation at CatSU.
In his fakebook statement following the oath-taking, Cortado emphasized the importance of their ongoing struggle—not just for his personal achievement but for the entire student body. “The fight is not yet over,” Cortado declared to his fellow students. “My assumption of this position is not the end of our journey—this is just an important step toward our true goal.”
Cortado acknowledged the challenges he faced during his election from those seeking to silence the students’ voices and undermine his mandate. Despite these obstacles, he firmly stated that they did not give in and remained committed to upholding their rights.
“They tried to silence us, questioned our unity, and attempted to destroy the mandate you entrusted to me. But despite all this, we did not falter. We did not give up,” he said.
Contado also reminded the students that there are more battles ahead for justice, freedom, and equality within the university. He asserted that his position is not merely a symbol of victory but a reminder of the challenges that still lie ahead.
In his message, Cortado urged his fellow students to continue fighting and stand strong in the face of future challenges. “Let us continue to strive for progress and work together with courage and strength while challenging outdated norms,” he added.
He concluded his speech with a call for unity: “This fight is for all of us; for CatSU, for the nation.” Cortado’s resolve was embraced by the students as an inspiration to persist in their fight for rights within the university, affirming their unity and determination. (BP NewsTeam)
