In a heartwarming tribute on October 11, 2024, Kalinga State University family celebrated the remarkable legacy of Dr. Eduardo T. Bagtang, who stepped down after 16 years as the university’s transformative leader. This moment coincided with the release of his commemorative book, The Legacy of Excellence, which chronicles the achievements and milestones under his presidency. The tribute gathered esteemed guests, retirees, and former colleagues, the entire KSU family, all eager to pay homage to the man who spearheaded KSU’s rise to national and international prominence.
The program was graced by university dignitaries, including retirees who humorously welcomed Dr. Bagtang into their fold, with the phrase, "Goodbye tension, welcome pension."
Dr. Marilou B. Adora, KSU’s Vice President for Academics and Student Development, opened the event by reflecting on how KSU flourished under Dr. Bagtang’s leadership, growing both in size and stature. She emphasized the national and international recognition the university earned during his tenure.
Highlighting Dr. Bagtang’s illustrious career was Dr. Perfelia R. Buen, the university and board secretary, who had worked closely with him throughout his presidency. She presented his biography, underscoring his educational achievements and steadfast dedication to KSU's advancement. Dr. Buen paid tribute to his outstanding leadership, tracing the evolution of KSU since he first joined the university.
The newly elected university president, Dr. Joy Grace P. Doctor, also took to the stage, expressing her heartfelt gratitude to the attendees who came to honor Dr. Bagtang. In her message, she praised his efforts in making KSU a leader in global citizenship education, academic innovation, and community engagement. She spoke of his commitment to inclusivity, noting how he secured KSU’s status as the first State University in the region deputized for the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP). Dr. Doctor further assured the audience that she would continue the path Dr. Bagtang had laid, confident in the knowledge that she could always seek his guidance. "His vision was to make KSU a beacon of equitable education, and he succeeded," she affirmed.
The event was filled with testimonial messages from notable figures who witnessed Dr. Bagtang’s successful journey as KSU president. One such testimonial came from former KSU president Dr. Serafin Ngohayon, who highlighted the transformative impact of Dr. Bagtang’s leadership. He credited him for steering KSU towards unprecedented growth and success.
In his response, Dr. Bagtang humbly thanked everyone who had been part of his journey, recognizing their contributions to KSU's achievements. He expressed his firm support for the newly elected president, Dr. Joy Grace P. Doctor, ensuring the continuity of KSU's upward trajectory.
As Dr. Eduardo T. Bagtang steps down from his role, his legacy of leadership, innovation, and inclusivity continues to shine brightly, leaving an indelible mark on Kalinga State University and the many lives he has touched during his tenure.