Southeast Asian University of Technology. The Southeast Asian University of Technology (SEAUTech), formerly known as the Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology (BISCAST), is a public state university located in Naga City, Camarines Sur, Philippines. Established in 1911, it has evolved from a trade school into a comprehensive technological university serving the Bicol Region. The institution specializes in engineering, architecture, technology, education, and applied sciences, operating from its main campus along Peñafrancia Avenue.

History 
The institution's roots trace back to 1911 when it was established as the Camarines Sur Trade School (CSTS), initially offering intermediate-level courses in carpentry, drawing, and trade arts. Classes were first conducted in the Camarines Sur High School library hall, marking the beginning of technical education in the region. In 1924, under the leadership of Doroteo Federis, the school expanded its curriculum to include secondary-level vocational courses, significantly broadening its educational scope.

A pivotal moment in the institution's early development came in 1925 with the construction of the historic Gabaldon building on a 25,699-square-meter plot donated by the provincial government. This building, which still stands today, remains a cherished historical landmark on campus. The pre-war period saw further expansion under Principal Cornelio Casaclang, who introduced comprehensive woodworking courses to enhance the technical curriculum.

Following World War II, the school experienced significant growth under the leadership of Primitiva Obias. The curriculum expanded to include auto mechanics, building construction, and furniture making. In 1948, the institution broke new ground by introducing girls' trades courses in dressmaking, cosmetology, and food trades, reflecting its commitment to inclusive technical education. The school achieved national recognition on August 15, 1952, when House Bill No. 2919 (Republic Act 825) transformed it into the Camarines Sur National School of Arts and Trades (CSNSAT).

The institution reached a major milestone in 1967 when Republic Act No. 5056 elevated it to college status as the Bicol College of Arts and Trades (BCAT). This period marked substantial academic expansion, including the introduction of the Bachelor of Science in Industrial Education (BSIE) program. The 1970s and 1980s saw further growth with the launch of the Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology (BSIT) in 1977 and the institution's selection as a pilot Technician Education Institute for Region V. The 1990s brought significant diversification with the introduction of engineering programs, including Electrical, Electronics and Communications, Mechanical Engineering, and Architecture.

The modern era brought several institutional transformations. In 2002, the college integrated with Camarines Sur Polytechnic College, followed by its establishment as an independent institution (BISCAST) through Republic Act No. 10231 in 2012. The most recent evolution came with its elevation to university status as the Southeast Asian University of Technology, reflecting its expanded role in technological education across the region.
.

Vision Statement
An internationally recognized smart university for transformative and innovative education.

Mission Statement
Produce technology-competent, environment-resilient, culture-sensitive, and industry-ready graduates who are socially responsive leaders imbued with character, work, and personal values through innovation management, transformative education, cutting-edge research, and industry-driven enterprise development.

Core Values
 Integrity
 Professionalism
 Responsiveness
 Inclusiveness
 Dedication
 Excellence

Administration

Administrative council

Academic programs 

SEAUTech offers a comprehensive range of academic programs across multiple levels. At the graduate level, the university provides advanced degrees in Engineering with a focus on Electronics Engineering, as well as doctoral programs in Science Education, Language Education, and Mathematics Education. The graduate school also offers specialized master's programs in Technology and Livelihood Education and English Language Teaching, catering to educators and professionals seeking advanced qualifications.

The undergraduate curriculum is distributed across four major colleges. The College of Engineering and Architecture offers programs in Architecture, Civil Engineering, Electronics and Communications Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering. The College of Education provides teacher training programs in Elementary Education and Secondary Education, with specializations in Mathematics, Science, and English, along with programs in Technology and Livelihood Education.

The College of Trades and Technology maintains the institution's historical focus on technical education, offering specialized programs in Automotive, Drafting, Electrical, Food, Garment, and Mechanical technologies. Meanwhile, the College of Arts and Sciences has expanded into contemporary fields with programs in Entertainment and Multimedia Computing, Exercise and Sport Sciences, Food Technology, and Entrepreneurship.

Abolished programs 

Secondary Trade School Curriculum (Laboratory High School)
Cadet Corps Preparatory Military Training (CCPMT)

Research and community engagement 
SEAUTech has established itself as a center for technological innovation in the Bicol Region, conducting research in applied sciences, industrial technology development, and sustainable engineering solutions. The university maintains strong community ties through extension programs and technology transfer initiatives, contributing to regional development.

The university promotes holistic student development through comprehensive sports programs, cultural activities, and professional organizations. Modern facilities include engineering laboratories, technology research centers, digital learning spaces, and sports complexes, supporting both academic and extracurricular activities.

SEAUTech has also expanded its reach through international collaborations, maintaining partnerships with various institutions across Southeast Asia. These partnerships facilitate student exchange programs, research collaborations, faculty development initiatives, and technology transfer projects, positioning the university as a significant player in regional technological education.

Student life

Recreation and wellness
BISCAST runs various recreation and wellness programs. These programs, like the annual intramural activities, are made with the aim of developing the total well-being of its members, catering to their other skills/abilities and offer an avenue for its members to socially interact with each other while improving their physique and/or just enjoying their interests. The institution is home for different sports clubs which cater to the varied interests of the students, faculty and staff. They can also participate in the dance fitness program called Zumba. Facilities such as the student pavilion are also always open to cater for these purposes.

Career services
Students can seek consultation on their career choices and plans to help them align it in their interests and goals.

Cadet Corps National Service Training Program (CCNSTP)

This is the organization of students who undergo National Service Training Program under Reserve Officer Training Corps component as optional and voluntary pursuant to Republic Act No. 9163 or the NSTP Act of 2001. The training and administration of the Cadet Corps is administered by 502nd (CAS) Community Defense Center, 5th Regional Community Defense Group, Army Reserve Command of Philippine Army. Graduates of Basic ROTC program will be enlisted to the reserve force of the Philippine Army pursuant to Republic Act No. 7077 while students who choose deferment from military training and opted to take the two other components of NSTP Program will be registered to National Service Reserve Corps.

References

External links 
 
 Official Facebook Page

Universities and colleges in Bicol Region
Universities and colleges in Naga, Camarines Sur
Universities and colleges established in 1911
1911 establishments in the Philippines